Therapists in Oak Island, NC

Photo of Penny Lane Hamblin, EdD, NCC, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Penny Lane Hamblin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, NCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
Not accepting new clients
If you worry constantly, feel a loss of control in life, and you want to feel confident when you wake up in the morning then I can support you to make changes in your life. Anxiety is something we are born with, sometimes we can manage, and other times we cannot. I can assist with decreasing anxiety symptoms by targeting the root of the anxiety. Let's explore the culprit of your current symptoms and develop an understanding of the culprit so the culprit doesn't control your life. Let me support you and help you regain control of you.
If you worry constantly, feel a loss of control in life, and you want to feel confident when you wake up in the morning then I can support you to make changes in your life. Anxiety is something we are born with, sometimes we can manage, and other times we cannot. I can assist with decreasing anxiety symptoms by targeting the root of the anxiety. Let's explore the culprit of your current symptoms and develop an understanding of the culprit so the culprit doesn't control your life. Let me support you and help you regain control of you.
(828) 373-1163 View (828) 373-1163
Photo of Daryl D Gorden, MA, LCMHC , LCAS
Daryl D Gorden
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC , LCAS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. My approach to counseling is that our thoughts and beliefs impact our feelings and behaviors in a variety of settings. We make choices in our lives and are accountable for our own actions. There are often alternative choices that can b e explored and help us to succeed in reaching our personal goals. My approach is Person Centered, in which it is acknowledged that you are an expert in your own life placing an emphasis on personal self-awareness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. My approach to counseling is that our thoughts and beliefs impact our feelings and behaviors in a variety of settings. We make choices in our lives and are accountable for our own actions. There are often alternative choices that can b e explored and help us to succeed in reaching our personal goals. My approach is Person Centered, in which it is acknowledged that you are an expert in your own life placing an emphasis on personal self-awareness.
(910) 629-4043 View (910) 629-4043
Photo of Pamilla G Yount, CMH, CHT, CHI
Pamilla G Yount
CMH, CHT, CHI
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
(828) 962-4336 View (828) 962-4336
Photo of Brooke L. Musick, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Brooke L. Musick
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you find peace and healing as you face life's struggles. Therapy is your space to let go, think out loud, learn and grow. It's a place just for you; a place to address your needs and goals.
My goal is to help you find peace and healing as you face life's struggles. Therapy is your space to let go, think out loud, learn and grow. It's a place just for you; a place to address your needs and goals.
(336) 967-8887 View (336) 967-8887
Photo of Lynn Ingram, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, BCBS, Psychological Associate
Lynn Ingram
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, BCBS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465  (Online Only)
I believe that every human being has the potential to live a healthy, satisfying, and abundant life, aligned with his or her values. My intention is to create a safe, secure, and comfortable atmosphere where I will develop with you, my client, a warm, trusting, cooperative, and mutually respectful relationship. Then, within the context of that relationship, we will explore the pressures/conflicts you are experiencing; what you have learned, during your lifetime, about how to respond to life events; how your particular personality figures into your current concerns; how you feel about your current concerns; and how you express those feelings.
I believe that every human being has the potential to live a healthy, satisfying, and abundant life, aligned with his or her values. My intention is to create a safe, secure, and comfortable atmosphere where I will develop with you, my client, a warm, trusting, cooperative, and mutually respectful relationship. Then, within the context of that relationship, we will explore the pressures/conflicts you are experiencing; what you have learned, during your lifetime, about how to respond to life events; how your particular personality figures into your current concerns; how you feel about your current concerns; and how you express those feelings.
(910) 672-8732 View (910) 672-8732
Photo of Elisa M Thomas - Elisa M. Thomas MA LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisa M. Thomas MA LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
You know it's possible to have an intimate and very satisfying relationship but perhaps you just don't know how to get there. You've tried in the past and most likely have a history of relationships that, shall we say, were less than optimal. You're wondering what role you play in either making them work or fail and going forward you're committed not to repeat what you know doesn't work. I understand. Sometimes you've even felt a little crazy in conversations with your partner and have been made to feel guilty for wanting more. I know. Here's the truth. You're not crazy for wanting more. Let's learn what works to make it happen!
You know it's possible to have an intimate and very satisfying relationship but perhaps you just don't know how to get there. You've tried in the past and most likely have a history of relationships that, shall we say, were less than optimal. You're wondering what role you play in either making them work or fail and going forward you're committed not to repeat what you know doesn't work. I understand. Sometimes you've even felt a little crazy in conversations with your partner and have been made to feel guilty for wanting more. I know. Here's the truth. You're not crazy for wanting more. Let's learn what works to make it happen!
(844) 553-2158 View (844) 553-2158
Photo of Debbie Gregor, LMFT, RN, RCST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Gregor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN, RCST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Island, NC 28465
My joy is supporting others in coming back to themselves and ultimately to their connection with others and with the divine. Whether exploring the patterns developed during our conception, birth or early life, or connecting with the body’s wisdom, there is a way we can be with what is happening that allows us to integrate what is most essential. Slowing down, finding your rhythm, tuning in to what you are needing and wanting for yourself, being curious…some sessions are deeply restorative, some profound or surprising, some simply provide the necessary structure for living fully in this 3-D world.
My joy is supporting others in coming back to themselves and ultimately to their connection with others and with the divine. Whether exploring the patterns developed during our conception, birth or early life, or connecting with the body’s wisdom, there is a way we can be with what is happening that allows us to integrate what is most essential. Slowing down, finding your rhythm, tuning in to what you are needing and wanting for yourself, being curious…some sessions are deeply restorative, some profound or surprising, some simply provide the necessary structure for living fully in this 3-D world.
(980) 272-5117 View (980) 272-5117
Photo of Jonathan B Clarke, MEd, LCAS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jonathan B Clarke
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LCAS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
My style is to build a relationship that generates a warmth and trust that generates open and honest discussion about what brings you to the office. Counseling can be intimidating and feel forced at times. This atmosphere is counterproductive to healthy progress. I will bring to you a vast experience of helping others, as well as a touch of my own recovery story. This is your time, and I will do everything I can to shed positive light into the troublesome areas of your life.
My style is to build a relationship that generates a warmth and trust that generates open and honest discussion about what brings you to the office. Counseling can be intimidating and feel forced at times. This atmosphere is counterproductive to healthy progress. I will bring to you a vast experience of helping others, as well as a touch of my own recovery story. This is your time, and I will do everything I can to shed positive light into the troublesome areas of your life.
(980) 243-4909 View (980) 243-4909
Photo of Jennifer Morris, MAEd, LCMHC, CCTS-I
Jennifer Morris
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
Welcome! Every day we are faced with challenges that can be overwhelming and therapy can be a great way to re-center and have a private space to be honored and understood. I work with individuals ages 10-70 who struggle with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use as well as children struggling with family conflict and parenting challenges. I work to provide a personalized experience that empowers clients to improve their wellbeing through developing skills to improve relationships, increase connection, decrease negative stress responses and enhance spirituality.
Welcome! Every day we are faced with challenges that can be overwhelming and therapy can be a great way to re-center and have a private space to be honored and understood. I work with individuals ages 10-70 who struggle with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use as well as children struggling with family conflict and parenting challenges. I work to provide a personalized experience that empowers clients to improve their wellbeing through developing skills to improve relationships, increase connection, decrease negative stress responses and enhance spirituality.
(910) 713-1728 View (910) 713-1728
Photo of Kim Konderla, MSW, LCSW, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Konderla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Island, NC 28465  (Online Only)
Now Offering: Clinical Supervision for LCSWAs. Like many overwhelmed women, I'm guessing you've been taking care of the needs of others for so long that you've lost touch with how to take care of your own. I'm also guessing you're burnt out, and simultaneously feeling like you're doing too much and not enough. Whether you are hoping to process childhood wounds, relationship issues, or work stress we can work through it together. I enjoy working with women ages 18+ to address wounds related to their own upbringing, trauma, issues that come up in parenting, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Now Offering: Clinical Supervision for LCSWAs. Like many overwhelmed women, I'm guessing you've been taking care of the needs of others for so long that you've lost touch with how to take care of your own. I'm also guessing you're burnt out, and simultaneously feeling like you're doing too much and not enough. Whether you are hoping to process childhood wounds, relationship issues, or work stress we can work through it together. I enjoy working with women ages 18+ to address wounds related to their own upbringing, trauma, issues that come up in parenting, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(984) 217-4772 View (984) 217-4772
Photo of Heather Locklear Strickland, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Heather Locklear Strickland
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
Waitlist for new clients
I am a North Carolina native who has dedicated my life to raising awareness for mental health/substance use issues and reducing the stigma around accessing treatment for both. For the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of community mental health agencies, serving the needs of individuals from all walks of life. My professional counseling experience includes individual and group counseling in a community mental health agency and a local Detention Center as well as crisis intervention in a community setting. I specialize in depressive & anxiety disorders as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and stress reactions.
I am a North Carolina native who has dedicated my life to raising awareness for mental health/substance use issues and reducing the stigma around accessing treatment for both. For the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of community mental health agencies, serving the needs of individuals from all walks of life. My professional counseling experience includes individual and group counseling in a community mental health agency and a local Detention Center as well as crisis intervention in a community setting. I specialize in depressive & anxiety disorders as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and stress reactions.
(910) 408-5672 View (910) 408-5672
Photo of Alexis Perez - Mindful Expressions Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Expressions Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Island, NC 28465
Welcome! We are a group practice that offers a variety of services including individual outpatient services, substance use treatment, and group therapy (coming soon). Our focus is to decrease the stigma surrounding mental health, promote the health and well being of our clients, and provide services to the underserved populations. Information about group therapy please visit website.
Welcome! We are a group practice that offers a variety of services including individual outpatient services, substance use treatment, and group therapy (coming soon). Our focus is to decrease the stigma surrounding mental health, promote the health and well being of our clients, and provide services to the underserved populations. Information about group therapy please visit website.
(910) 367-5036 View (910) 367-5036

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tami Wilkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Wilkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southport, NC 28461
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Connecticut (in-person or virtual) and North Carolina (virtual only). I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership built on trust and authenticity. My primary aim is to cultivate a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where you can unravel the layers of your being, explore ways to forge deeper connections with others, break free from unhelpful patterns, and navigate toward a more purposeful and gratifying life. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth and groundedness, fostering a sense of belonging where you can be truly understood, valued, and embraced.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Connecticut (in-person or virtual) and North Carolina (virtual only). I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership built on trust and authenticity. My primary aim is to cultivate a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where you can unravel the layers of your being, explore ways to forge deeper connections with others, break free from unhelpful patterns, and navigate toward a more purposeful and gratifying life. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth and groundedness, fostering a sense of belonging where you can be truly understood, valued, and embraced.
(203) 703-1390 View (203) 703-1390
Photo of Tabatha Treager, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tabatha Treager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holden Beach, NC 28462
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a dedicated focus on helping individuals overcome mental barriers and reach their full potential. I have extensive experience working with children and youth athletes and service members. I specialize in trauma therapy, providing essential support and guidance to those in need. I am passionate about empowering others and am committed to helping clients enhance their performance and achieve their goals.
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a dedicated focus on helping individuals overcome mental barriers and reach their full potential. I have extensive experience working with children and youth athletes and service members. I specialize in trauma therapy, providing essential support and guidance to those in need. I am passionate about empowering others and am committed to helping clients enhance their performance and achieve their goals.
(910) 936-3518 View (910) 936-3518
Photo of Christina Collins, MA, LCMHC
Christina Collins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Southport, NC 28461  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to my page. Maybe you are searching for counseling services because you feel something is missing in your life or that your struggles outweigh your pleasures. Perhaps you are questioning if you are on the right career path. I service clients who struggle with career, relationships, and psychological conditions. During our initial session, we delve deeply into your presenting concerns and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that is beneficial for you. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter.
Hello, and welcome to my page. Maybe you are searching for counseling services because you feel something is missing in your life or that your struggles outweigh your pleasures. Perhaps you are questioning if you are on the right career path. I service clients who struggle with career, relationships, and psychological conditions. During our initial session, we delve deeply into your presenting concerns and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that is beneficial for you. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter.
(910) 788-2593 View (910) 788-2593
Photo of Deanna L Brown-Johnson, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Deanna L Brown-Johnson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Bolivia, NC 28422  (Online Only)
Reaching out to a counselor can be intimidating. I get it. We've all had times in life when we can't manage on our own. You might think, "how did I get here?" Whatever the situation, sometimes it feels overwhelming until you are able to talk about it. A counselor can help guide you through it. Counseling can help you feel healthier, happier, more empowered. Let's work together to help you find the peace and resiliency you've been wanting. Give us a call. I offer flexible hours, as well as offering phone and e-counseling.
Reaching out to a counselor can be intimidating. I get it. We've all had times in life when we can't manage on our own. You might think, "how did I get here?" Whatever the situation, sometimes it feels overwhelming until you are able to talk about it. A counselor can help guide you through it. Counseling can help you feel healthier, happier, more empowered. Let's work together to help you find the peace and resiliency you've been wanting. Give us a call. I offer flexible hours, as well as offering phone and e-counseling.
(910) 387-0937 View (910) 387-0937
Photo of Phillip M. Sharp, EdD, LP, SATP, NCHSP-P, Psychologist
Phillip M. Sharp
Psychologist, EdD, LP, SATP, NCHSP-P
Verified Verified
Southport, NC 28461
Let me help you take the journey within. Although a generalist, I have extensive experience and training in the treatment of pornography, cybersex and related addictions and helping significant others. I enjoy working with clients who want to better understand themselves. I am a good listener with natural empathy, providing a safe and peaceful environment for your journey of self exploration.
Let me help you take the journey within. Although a generalist, I have extensive experience and training in the treatment of pornography, cybersex and related addictions and helping significant others. I enjoy working with clients who want to better understand themselves. I am a good listener with natural empathy, providing a safe and peaceful environment for your journey of self exploration.
(910) 292-9965 View (910) 292-9965
Photo of Kimberly Palmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolivia, NC 28422
Do you feel disconnected from those around you, or at times do you put on a fake smile so others don’t really know how you are feeling, or even put others needs before your own? Life around you seems to be moving at a different pace then you and finding your breath seems difficult, even though you can’t slow down to think or make sense of the world around you. Every day decisions seem overwhelming or simple tasks take longer than expected.
Do you feel disconnected from those around you, or at times do you put on a fake smile so others don’t really know how you are feeling, or even put others needs before your own? Life around you seems to be moving at a different pace then you and finding your breath seems difficult, even though you can’t slow down to think or make sense of the world around you. Every day decisions seem overwhelming or simple tasks take longer than expected.
(910) 886-1877 View (910) 886-1877
Photo of Elissa Both, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elissa Both
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southport, NC 28461  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, families, and individuals. I work with clients in N.C., N.J. and Oregon, who are experiencing anxiety, depression, school/work difficulties, ADHD, ASD, relationship issues, personality disorders, low self-esteem, life transitions, coping skills, and many other mental health concerns. I strongly believe that in order to be successful, it is important to build a trusting and welcoming environment for my clients. I put a great emphasis on meeting clients where they are and establishing that respectful, trusting relationship.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, families, and individuals. I work with clients in N.C., N.J. and Oregon, who are experiencing anxiety, depression, school/work difficulties, ADHD, ASD, relationship issues, personality disorders, low self-esteem, life transitions, coping skills, and many other mental health concerns. I strongly believe that in order to be successful, it is important to build a trusting and welcoming environment for my clients. I put a great emphasis on meeting clients where they are and establishing that respectful, trusting relationship.
(910) 294-5729 View (910) 294-5729
Photo of Christian McDonald, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Southport, NC 28461
Hello, my name is Christian McDonald, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I believe in changing individuals’ lives for the better and providing individuals with the tools to guide he/she. The population I serve is teens, at-risk youth, individuals who suffer from depression, family challenges, CBT, DBT and trauma-focused. Therapy is the first step to making that necessary change. My clinical experience consists of assisting teens, at-risk youth, Eating Disorders LGBTQ individuals who suffer from their mental health.
Hello, my name is Christian McDonald, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I believe in changing individuals’ lives for the better and providing individuals with the tools to guide he/she. The population I serve is teens, at-risk youth, individuals who suffer from depression, family challenges, CBT, DBT and trauma-focused. Therapy is the first step to making that necessary change. My clinical experience consists of assisting teens, at-risk youth, Eating Disorders LGBTQ individuals who suffer from their mental health.
(919) 642-4518 View (919) 642-4518

See more therapy options for Oak Island

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Oak Island, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Oak Island, NC who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
83% Self Esteem
75% Life Transitions
67% Relationship Issues
67% Anxiety
58% Coping Skills
58% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Aetna

How Therapists in Oak Island, NC see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Oak Island?

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.