Therapists in Hawthorne, NJ

Photo of Rachel Antler, Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC
Rachel Antler
Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Navigating life’s more difficult challenges can feel overwhelming at times. There are many paths to achieving a more fulfilling life, and there is no “one size fits all” method for counseling. I believe in applying a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet each client’s individual needs and goals. A strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy and understanding is paramount in an effective counseling partnership, and I take great pride in creating an open and welcoming space for my clients.
Navigating life’s more difficult challenges can feel overwhelming at times. There are many paths to achieving a more fulfilling life, and there is no “one size fits all” method for counseling. I believe in applying a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet each client’s individual needs and goals. A strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy and understanding is paramount in an effective counseling partnership, and I take great pride in creating an open and welcoming space for my clients.
(862) 319-8567 View (862) 319-8567
Photo of Katherine Castaneda, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Katherine Castaneda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Online Only
Are you experiencing challenges navigating everyday stressors that increase your anxiety and other heightened emotional states? I am here to help you understand your relationship with your mind and body in order to return to a state of emotional regulation using mindfulness. Through this journey, we will work on coping skills and techniques that help you regain confidence and increase your self-esteem through validation.
Are you experiencing challenges navigating everyday stressors that increase your anxiety and other heightened emotional states? I am here to help you understand your relationship with your mind and body in order to return to a state of emotional regulation using mindfulness. Through this journey, we will work on coping skills and techniques that help you regain confidence and increase your self-esteem through validation.
(908) 829-9790 View (908) 829-9790
Photo of Esther Denise Denise Meza - Families and Communities United, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Families and Communities United, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Hello, we are a private practice group providing a number of services to our communities. We offer counseling services for adolescents, adults, and seniors. Whether you are dealing with a chronic mental illness or a temporary life challenge, we are here to partner with you to help you achieve your clinical goals. Feel free to give us a call for a free consultation and take the first step to your mental wellness. We are here for you.
Hello, we are a private practice group providing a number of services to our communities. We offer counseling services for adolescents, adults, and seniors. Whether you are dealing with a chronic mental illness or a temporary life challenge, we are here to partner with you to help you achieve your clinical goals. Feel free to give us a call for a free consultation and take the first step to your mental wellness. We are here for you.
(973) 791-8873 View (973) 791-8873
Photo of Dr. Juan A. Garcia, Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Dr. Juan A. Garcia
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
3 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Juan has a passion for the restoration of broken lives to wholeness. He has a heart for the broken, misunderstood and marginalized. Juan has earned a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling and is Licensed in Brain Health. Juan also works with NBA, NFL and MLB athletes through mental toughness and peak performance. His passion became more overwhelming and his call became clear when he experienced the love and grace of God through people that were willing to love him right where he was in those difficult times. Juan and Deborah have been married since 1996 & together they have 2 kids: Jordan & Hannah.
Juan has a passion for the restoration of broken lives to wholeness. He has a heart for the broken, misunderstood and marginalized. Juan has earned a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling and is Licensed in Brain Health. Juan also works with NBA, NFL and MLB athletes through mental toughness and peak performance. His passion became more overwhelming and his call became clear when he experienced the love and grace of God through people that were willing to love him right where he was in those difficult times. Juan and Deborah have been married since 1996 & together they have 2 kids: Jordan & Hannah.
(973) 310-5871 View (973) 310-5871
Photo of Roland Achtau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ICGC-I
Roland Achtau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ICGC-I
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Hello all! My primary specialization is addiction counseling for both addicts and their loved ones. I work with a multitude of addictive disorders such as alcohol use, drug abuse, gambling, sexual addiction, video game addiction, and other behavioral addictions. These issues have become unmanageable and have hindered my clients ability to function in everyday life. I provide a safe environment to help my clients acquire positive coping skills, education about their addiction, new perspectives on recovery, forming a recovery support network, and a relationship with God. Recovery is about treating the person, not just the addiction.
Hello all! My primary specialization is addiction counseling for both addicts and their loved ones. I work with a multitude of addictive disorders such as alcohol use, drug abuse, gambling, sexual addiction, video game addiction, and other behavioral addictions. These issues have become unmanageable and have hindered my clients ability to function in everyday life. I provide a safe environment to help my clients acquire positive coping skills, education about their addiction, new perspectives on recovery, forming a recovery support network, and a relationship with God. Recovery is about treating the person, not just the addiction.
(973) 949-7260 View (973) 949-7260
Photo of Kathryn Camisa, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kathryn Camisa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
If you feel like your brain never shuts off, you overthink everything, panic over small things, people-please, avoid conflict, or feel stuck in the same patterns no matter how hard you try, you are not alone. I work with teens and adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, relationship stress, and life transitions. Therapy with me is supportive, real, and collaborative. I help clients understand why they feel the way they do, build practical coping skills, and feel more confident being themselves.
If you feel like your brain never shuts off, you overthink everything, panic over small things, people-please, avoid conflict, or feel stuck in the same patterns no matter how hard you try, you are not alone. I work with teens and adults struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, relationship stress, and life transitions. Therapy with me is supportive, real, and collaborative. I help clients understand why they feel the way they do, build practical coping skills, and feel more confident being themselves.
(973) 791-8399 View (973) 791-8399
Photo of Deborah Garcia, Pastoral Counselor, BA, CLC
Deborah Garcia
Pastoral Counselor, BA, CLC
1 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Debbie is an Ordained Minister; she holds a BA in Christian Counseling from Colorado Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Pastoral Counselor, a Certified Temperament Counselor through the National Christian Counselors Assn, a Certified Professional Life Coach and a SYMBIS (Save Your Marriage Before It Starts) Facilitator. Debbie has a passion to see lives restored by the loving and gentle power of the Word of God. She loves working with women of all ages, couples and those experiencing grief and or loss. She has personally seen and experienced the power of what can happen when you have someone to lean on in times of need.
Debbie is an Ordained Minister; she holds a BA in Christian Counseling from Colorado Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Pastoral Counselor, a Certified Temperament Counselor through the National Christian Counselors Assn, a Certified Professional Life Coach and a SYMBIS (Save Your Marriage Before It Starts) Facilitator. Debbie has a passion to see lives restored by the loving and gentle power of the Word of God. She loves working with women of all ages, couples and those experiencing grief and or loss. She has personally seen and experienced the power of what can happen when you have someone to lean on in times of need.
(973) 318-1124 View (973) 318-1124
Photo of Erika Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Erika Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Are you having panic attacks at work or when you’re out? Is your anxiety keeping you home? Are you worried about the next attack happening in public? Anxiety attacks can be scary and overwhelming. Feeling like it’s hard to breathe, tightening of chest, shaking, and sweating. The fear of them happening out of the blue and people noticing can be crippling. Are you struggling with past trauma? Especially after experiencing trauma, we find that anxiety and depression can start to take over our lives. The good news is, with helpful coping techniques, we can learn to manage our anxiety and find healing from our traumas.
Are you having panic attacks at work or when you’re out? Is your anxiety keeping you home? Are you worried about the next attack happening in public? Anxiety attacks can be scary and overwhelming. Feeling like it’s hard to breathe, tightening of chest, shaking, and sweating. The fear of them happening out of the blue and people noticing can be crippling. Are you struggling with past trauma? Especially after experiencing trauma, we find that anxiety and depression can start to take over our lives. The good news is, with helpful coping techniques, we can learn to manage our anxiety and find healing from our traumas.
(201) 523-4048 View (201) 523-4048
Photo of Richard Hekemian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Richard Hekemian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with adults, children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationships. I empathize with clients who are going through challenging seasons of life in a non-judgmental setting. I believe in exploring the inner world of each client, understanding their emotions and circumstances while helping them identify the shifts that will bring healing and help them reach their goals of peace and fulfillment.
I specialize in working with adults, children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationships. I empathize with clients who are going through challenging seasons of life in a non-judgmental setting. I believe in exploring the inner world of each client, understanding their emotions and circumstances while helping them identify the shifts that will bring healing and help them reach their goals of peace and fulfillment.
Photo of Zakkiyyah Sally, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Zakkiyyah Sally
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
My name is Dr. Zakkiyyah Sally better known as Dr. Z. I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in trauma‑informed care. I am dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities heal and thrive. I utilize a strengths‑based approach in counseling that honors each person’s story, builds on their strong points, and that supports positive change for clients. My work blends helping clients to develop self-compassion; helping clients work through relationship issues with their partner, family members, friends, or with colleagues at work; helping clients to develop a better understanding of their feelings.
My name is Dr. Zakkiyyah Sally better known as Dr. Z. I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in trauma‑informed care. I am dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities heal and thrive. I utilize a strengths‑based approach in counseling that honors each person’s story, builds on their strong points, and that supports positive change for clients. My work blends helping clients to develop self-compassion; helping clients work through relationship issues with their partner, family members, friends, or with colleagues at work; helping clients to develop a better understanding of their feelings.
(862) 500-3521 View (862) 500-3521
Photo of Magdalena Horta, Counselor, MA, LAC, NBCC
Magdalena Horta
Counselor, MA, LAC, NBCC
Online Only
Hi, I’m glad you’re here :) I’m a therapist who is passionate about supporting others and helping them feel seen and understood. I know starting therapy can feel little intimidating…especially if it’s your first time. My goal is to make the process as comfortable and welcoming as possible by creating a warm, non-judgmental space where you can truly be yourself.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here :) I’m a therapist who is passionate about supporting others and helping them feel seen and understood. I know starting therapy can feel little intimidating…especially if it’s your first time. My goal is to make the process as comfortable and welcoming as possible by creating a warm, non-judgmental space where you can truly be yourself.
(862) 375-5413 View (862) 375-5413
Photo of Nick Garofalo, Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC, CTP, CGP
Nick Garofalo
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC, CTP, CGP
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
When facing life's challenges, we can feel unprepared, confused and doubtful. My goal in working together is to aid clients in recognizing how their qualities and strengths are instrumental in overcoming adversity. In therapy, you determine your goals, you define the obstacles to overcome. My job is to provide support, an objective perspective and interventions for how we can attain your goals! I provide a safe space where clients can feel heard, understood and truly be themselves. I have experience working with college athletes, adolescents, young adults, parents and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
When facing life's challenges, we can feel unprepared, confused and doubtful. My goal in working together is to aid clients in recognizing how their qualities and strengths are instrumental in overcoming adversity. In therapy, you determine your goals, you define the obstacles to overcome. My job is to provide support, an objective perspective and interventions for how we can attain your goals! I provide a safe space where clients can feel heard, understood and truly be themselves. I have experience working with college athletes, adolescents, young adults, parents and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(201) 485-5026 View (201) 485-5026
Photo of Patrick Bryan Granelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Patrick Bryan Granelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Are you a parent searching for therapist your kid can connect to? My clients tell me I have the unique ability to establish a genuine rapport with even the most reticent individuals. My career experience as a college counselor, in-home family therapist and school social worker allows me to be in touch with the world of young people. My practice focuses on work with gifted children, special needs students, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. We co-create a counseling I-pad "app" as a therapy tool. I encourage each individuals own capacity to heal and thrive.
Are you a parent searching for therapist your kid can connect to? My clients tell me I have the unique ability to establish a genuine rapport with even the most reticent individuals. My career experience as a college counselor, in-home family therapist and school social worker allows me to be in touch with the world of young people. My practice focuses on work with gifted children, special needs students, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. We co-create a counseling I-pad "app" as a therapy tool. I encourage each individuals own capacity to heal and thrive.
(201) 279-6495 View (201) 279-6495
Photo of Donya P. Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Donya P. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am licensed in FL and NJ. Do you struggle to put yourself first? Have you muted your own voice? I want to help you find the confidence needed to be your authentic self. The world desires to meet the genuine you. I treat clients of all ages and backgrounds who struggle with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, school and career difficulties, as well as transitional phases. More generally, I work with clients who suffer from an inability to live life to its fullest and who want a more enriching life.
I am licensed in FL and NJ. Do you struggle to put yourself first? Have you muted your own voice? I want to help you find the confidence needed to be your authentic self. The world desires to meet the genuine you. I treat clients of all ages and backgrounds who struggle with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, school and career difficulties, as well as transitional phases. More generally, I work with clients who suffer from an inability to live life to its fullest and who want a more enriching life.
(973) 221-8652 View (973) 221-8652
Photo of Eve Thaler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Eve Thaler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a warm and caring individual with an extensive background in helping others with practical, real-life solutions for better living. I am clinically trained in anxiety disorders and depression in children and adults as well as Asperger related disorders. By working closely with my clients to identify goals and clear steps to achieve these goals I have facilitated their personal growth and movement towards greater self-worth. This difficult long-lasting pandemic has greatly impacted children and teens and families overall. I can be a support to navigate the increase in anxiety and depression.
I am a warm and caring individual with an extensive background in helping others with practical, real-life solutions for better living. I am clinically trained in anxiety disorders and depression in children and adults as well as Asperger related disorders. By working closely with my clients to identify goals and clear steps to achieve these goals I have facilitated their personal growth and movement towards greater self-worth. This difficult long-lasting pandemic has greatly impacted children and teens and families overall. I can be a support to navigate the increase in anxiety and depression.
(201) 740-2631 View (201) 740-2631
Photo of Loren A Galese, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ACS
Loren A Galese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ACS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and welcome! Taking the first step toward finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. I’m here to support you in navigating the path toward healing and mental wellness. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, and identity exploration. I also provide affirming care for the LGBTQIA+ community and support for couples looking to strengthen their connection.
Hello and welcome! Taking the first step toward finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. I’m here to support you in navigating the path toward healing and mental wellness. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, and identity exploration. I also provide affirming care for the LGBTQIA+ community and support for couples looking to strengthen their connection.
(973) 604-0180 View (973) 604-0180
Photo of Thomas Graglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Thomas Graglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Sawubona! In Zulu, the most widely spoken language in South Africa, this means more than hello, it means - I see you, I recognize your worth and dignity. Life can often leave us in mental and emotional survival mode, stripping us of our worth. I am passionate about helping people move from simply surviving towards thriving. I work best with individuals experiencing PTSD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and/or various types of conflict including familial, relational, spiritual, and self.
Sawubona! In Zulu, the most widely spoken language in South Africa, this means more than hello, it means - I see you, I recognize your worth and dignity. Life can often leave us in mental and emotional survival mode, stripping us of our worth. I am passionate about helping people move from simply surviving towards thriving. I work best with individuals experiencing PTSD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and/or various types of conflict including familial, relational, spiritual, and self.
(201) 627-9509 View (201) 627-9509
Photo of Nicole Puglisi, Associate Counselor, MA, LAC
Nicole Puglisi
Associate Counselor, MA, LAC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Nicole & I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with a passion for guiding others as they navigate the challenges of life, whatever they may be! My experience in working with diverse populations throughout the lifespan has included working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship difficulties, as well as life threatening and/or chronic illnesses, with a special interest in treating those facing a cancer diagnosis for themselves or a loved one. As a survivor, I understand first-hand the hardships & grief as well as the hope & perseverance needed to accept & overcome.
My name is Nicole & I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with a passion for guiding others as they navigate the challenges of life, whatever they may be! My experience in working with diverse populations throughout the lifespan has included working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship difficulties, as well as life threatening and/or chronic illnesses, with a special interest in treating those facing a cancer diagnosis for themselves or a loved one. As a survivor, I understand first-hand the hardships & grief as well as the hope & perseverance needed to accept & overcome.
(908) 498-9616 View (908) 498-9616
Photo of Vana Ekmekjian-Thomson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Vana Ekmekjian-Thomson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist, I’m committed to walking alongside you as a partner in your healing. My goal is to support you through life’s challenges and help you tap into your inner strength and resilience to achieve your goals. Through a strong therapeutic partnership, we can work toward creating balance in your mind, body, and spirit. My aim is to help you reclaim a sense of wholeness, find peace within yourself, and thrive in all areas of life.
As a therapist, I’m committed to walking alongside you as a partner in your healing. My goal is to support you through life’s challenges and help you tap into your inner strength and resilience to achieve your goals. Through a strong therapeutic partnership, we can work toward creating balance in your mind, body, and spirit. My aim is to help you reclaim a sense of wholeness, find peace within yourself, and thrive in all areas of life.
(551) 365-6096 View (551) 365-6096
Photo of Briana Caro, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Briana Caro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to create a calming and supportive environment for my clients and their families. I have an extensive background with children and adolescents, specifically dealing with anxiety, depression, self harming behaviors, school refusal, and peer related issues. My style of therapy is very relationship based and focuses on building trust, improving self esteem, and finding healthy ways to get one’s needs met. Additionally, I believe in empowering the client to self- soothe and create problem solving solutions.
My goal is to create a calming and supportive environment for my clients and their families. I have an extensive background with children and adolescents, specifically dealing with anxiety, depression, self harming behaviors, school refusal, and peer related issues. My style of therapy is very relationship based and focuses on building trust, improving self esteem, and finding healthy ways to get one’s needs met. Additionally, I believe in empowering the client to self- soothe and create problem solving solutions.
(201) 831-9416 View (201) 831-9416

See more therapy options for Hawthorne

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hawthorne, NJ

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hawthorne, NJ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Self Esteem
73% Depression
68% Relationship Issues
68% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD
59% Grief

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
63% Cigna and Evernorth
63% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Hawthorne, NJ see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hawthorne?

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.