Therapists in Springfield, NJ

Photo of Cindy Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cindy Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi! I am Cindy Walker, a licensed professional counselor in NJ. I have been practicing since 2016 following receiving my MA/EDs from Seton Hall University. My focus in sessions is to help the individual walk away with skills that better support the lifestyle s/he is creating. I have expertise in working with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach is eclectic as I specialize in a variety of areas. My primary approaches are under the cognitive behavioral therapy umbrella and I am able to provide both DBT and trauma-informed care.
Hi! I am Cindy Walker, a licensed professional counselor in NJ. I have been practicing since 2016 following receiving my MA/EDs from Seton Hall University. My focus in sessions is to help the individual walk away with skills that better support the lifestyle s/he is creating. I have expertise in working with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach is eclectic as I specialize in a variety of areas. My primary approaches are under the cognitive behavioral therapy umbrella and I am able to provide both DBT and trauma-informed care.
(908) 923-7520 View (908) 923-7520
Photo of Becky Diaz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Becky Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, therapy can help create space for understanding and change. I provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I am affirming of BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant, and neurodivergent communities, and I approach this work with care, curiosity, and respect for your lived experience.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, therapy can help create space for understanding and change. I provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I am affirming of BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant, and neurodivergent communities, and I approach this work with care, curiosity, and respect for your lived experience.
(862) 263-9911 View (862) 263-9911
Photo of Rinku Shanker, Psychologist, PsyD
Rinku Shanker
Psychologist, PsyD
6 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Welcome! Are you struggling with a life transition, acculturation, or other stressors? Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new role or coping with anxiety? Life transitions such as graduations, new jobs, and relationship stress can take a toll on us. On the outside things look ok, but inside you might feel off. Perhaps you're unsure of what you're feeling and are looking for a safe place to explore those emotions. Therapy can help you understand what you are feeling and why. You can learn skills to tolerate distress, cope with difficult emotions and overcome your challenges.
Welcome! Are you struggling with a life transition, acculturation, or other stressors? Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new role or coping with anxiety? Life transitions such as graduations, new jobs, and relationship stress can take a toll on us. On the outside things look ok, but inside you might feel off. Perhaps you're unsure of what you're feeling and are looking for a safe place to explore those emotions. Therapy can help you understand what you are feeling and why. You can learn skills to tolerate distress, cope with difficult emotions and overcome your challenges.
(973) 564-0749 View (973) 564-0749
Photo of John Gesumaria, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
John Gesumaria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Feeling overwhelmed by life's complexities? I understand. With a unique blend of therapeutic expertise & a ten-year career in business for those dealing with the workplace, I offer a fresh perspective on your challenges. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions, I provide a safe, supportive space to explore your deepest thoughts and feelings. I believe in looking beyond surface-level symptoms to uncover the root causes of your struggles. By combining evidence-based therapies with genuine empathy, I empower you to build resilience, foster healthier relationships, and unlock your full potential.
Feeling overwhelmed by life's complexities? I understand. With a unique blend of therapeutic expertise & a ten-year career in business for those dealing with the workplace, I offer a fresh perspective on your challenges. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions, I provide a safe, supportive space to explore your deepest thoughts and feelings. I believe in looking beyond surface-level symptoms to uncover the root causes of your struggles. By combining evidence-based therapies with genuine empathy, I empower you to build resilience, foster healthier relationships, and unlock your full potential.
(973) 791-7032 View (973) 791-7032
Photo of Ani Silvani, Counselor, LSW
Ani Silvani
Counselor, LSW
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Life can feel overwhelming with anxiety, depression, sleepless nights, and personal struggles. These challenges are hard to navigate alone. This is where I can help! With over 25 years of experience, I began as a school counselor, helping children and young adults through pivotal years. Now, I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families on issues like relationship challenges, conflict resolution, behavior modification, and crisis management, helping you find clarity and peace in a complex world.
Life can feel overwhelming with anxiety, depression, sleepless nights, and personal struggles. These challenges are hard to navigate alone. This is where I can help! With over 25 years of experience, I began as a school counselor, helping children and young adults through pivotal years. Now, I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families on issues like relationship challenges, conflict resolution, behavior modification, and crisis management, helping you find clarity and peace in a complex world.
(973) 281-4604 View (973) 281-4604
Photo of Caroline Harvey, Psychologist, PsyD
Caroline Harvey
Psychologist, PsyD
Springfield, NJ 07081
I work with children, teens, and families facing challenges with behavior, anxiety, or selective mutism. Many parents come to me feeling worried, overwhelmed, or unsure how to best support their child. Together, we focus on practical, evidence-based strategies to reduce stress, improve communication, and build confidence. Families often want a calmer home, a more connected family, and a child who can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.
I work with children, teens, and families facing challenges with behavior, anxiety, or selective mutism. Many parents come to me feeling worried, overwhelmed, or unsure how to best support their child. Together, we focus on practical, evidence-based strategies to reduce stress, improve communication, and build confidence. Families often want a calmer home, a more connected family, and a child who can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.
(347) 979-2540 View (347) 979-2540
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Zeman - Turn Leaf Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MEd, LCSW, LCADC, CST
Turn Leaf Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MEd, LCSW, LCADC, CST
2 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
As the founder of TLW, Stephanie and her team have dedicated their lives in aiding others. As systems therapists, the TLW team believes that it is integral to identify both internal and external systems when working with each client or couple. Their aspiration is to provide a non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families for processing concerns through the use of an integrative approach. This approach allows individuals and couples to openly discuss concerns with their sexual functioning, expression, and trauma. A Mind, Body, Spirit approach!
As the founder of TLW, Stephanie and her team have dedicated their lives in aiding others. As systems therapists, the TLW team believes that it is integral to identify both internal and external systems when working with each client or couple. Their aspiration is to provide a non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families for processing concerns through the use of an integrative approach. This approach allows individuals and couples to openly discuss concerns with their sexual functioning, expression, and trauma. A Mind, Body, Spirit approach!
(862) 505-2551 View (862) 505-2551
Photo of Tamara Steckler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT, CBT-C
Tamara Steckler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT, CBT-C
Springfield, NJ 07081
Whether you're seeking individual growth, healing from trauma, strengthening family bonds, or navigating major life transitions, I provide a therapeutic space that balances deep understanding with practical solutions to help you achieve meaningful, lasting change. With over 30 years of multidisciplinary experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, children/family attorney, K-6 educator, and foster/adoptive/birth parent, I offer a uniquely comprehensive approach to therapy. My background provides me with profound insights into the complex interplay between personal struggles, family dynamics, and systemic challenges.
Whether you're seeking individual growth, healing from trauma, strengthening family bonds, or navigating major life transitions, I provide a therapeutic space that balances deep understanding with practical solutions to help you achieve meaningful, lasting change. With over 30 years of multidisciplinary experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, children/family attorney, K-6 educator, and foster/adoptive/birth parent, I offer a uniquely comprehensive approach to therapy. My background provides me with profound insights into the complex interplay between personal struggles, family dynamics, and systemic challenges.
(862) 224-0713 View (862) 224-0713
Photo of Wendy Terrie Behary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Wendy Terrie Behary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
My private practice is primarily devoted to treating narcissists, partners/people dealing with them, and couples experiencing relationship problems. I also enjoy coaching individuals in interviewing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills enhancement.
My private practice is primarily devoted to treating narcissists, partners/people dealing with them, and couples experiencing relationship problems. I also enjoy coaching individuals in interviewing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills enhancement.
(973) 671-8047 View (973) 671-8047
Photo of Hanna Otero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Hanna Otero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Springfield, NJ 07081
You know yourself best, but sometimes life’s challenges can make it hard to hear your own inner wisdom. I strive to offer a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Here, every part of you is welcome. My work is grounded in a client-centered, Rogerian orientation where therapy is not about being given answers, but being truly heard. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing while always centering the client’s own voice, values, and goals.
You know yourself best, but sometimes life’s challenges can make it hard to hear your own inner wisdom. I strive to offer a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Here, every part of you is welcome. My work is grounded in a client-centered, Rogerian orientation where therapy is not about being given answers, but being truly heard. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing while always centering the client’s own voice, values, and goals.
(908) 201-8176 View (908) 201-8176
Photo of Melissa Arce, Psychologist, PsyD
Melissa Arce
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
To each client and session, Dr. Arce's goal is to focus on building trust and authenticity in the room. Her clients would describe her as warm, empathic, and genuine. In her practice, Dr. Arce consistently works to highlight her clients' strengths, validate her clients' experiences, and create transparency in the therapeutic process.
To each client and session, Dr. Arce's goal is to focus on building trust and authenticity in the room. Her clients would describe her as warm, empathic, and genuine. In her practice, Dr. Arce consistently works to highlight her clients' strengths, validate her clients' experiences, and create transparency in the therapeutic process.
(973) 566-3236 View (973) 566-3236
Photo of Patrice Holness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Patrice Holness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in working with children and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and anger. My approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration—I meet clients where they are, creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel comfortable sharing your concerns. In our first few sessions, we’ll focus on what’s bringing you to therapy and begin identifying the goals you’d like to achieve. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or seeking overall emotional well-being, I’m here to support your journey with compassion and practical tools.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in working with children and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and anger. My approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration—I meet clients where they are, creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel comfortable sharing your concerns. In our first few sessions, we’ll focus on what’s bringing you to therapy and begin identifying the goals you’d like to achieve. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or seeking overall emotional well-being, I’m here to support your journey with compassion and practical tools.
(908) 388-9186 View (908) 388-9186
Photo of Jenna Zemachson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jenna Zemachson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
I am a licensed clinical psychotherapist who earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University. After completing my Master’s, I went on to attend a four year post-graduate program at The National Institute of the Psychotherapies, where I was certified in psychoanalysis and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I believe that with the right psychotherapy, one can face any life challenge head on and develop the insight and the skills to grow from them. I have an empathic approach that allows the space for my patients to look within and do the necessary work to improve their lives.
I am a licensed clinical psychotherapist who earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University. After completing my Master’s, I went on to attend a four year post-graduate program at The National Institute of the Psychotherapies, where I was certified in psychoanalysis and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I believe that with the right psychotherapy, one can face any life challenge head on and develop the insight and the skills to grow from them. I have an empathic approach that allows the space for my patients to look within and do the necessary work to improve their lives.
(973) 860-3761 View (973) 860-3761
Photo of Andrea M Caudle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Andrea M Caudle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Online Only
As a therapist, I provide an inculsive, non-judgemental space in which you can process your the feelings be heard and feel understand. As a client, you can expect to join efforts to explore, laugh and find your voice. I enjoy helping people to maximize your potential. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, couples, parenting and adult children of sexual abuse and substance abuse. I believe that a therpeutic relationship should be one of mutual respect and collaration.
As a therapist, I provide an inculsive, non-judgemental space in which you can process your the feelings be heard and feel understand. As a client, you can expect to join efforts to explore, laugh and find your voice. I enjoy helping people to maximize your potential. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, couples, parenting and adult children of sexual abuse and substance abuse. I believe that a therpeutic relationship should be one of mutual respect and collaration.
(973) 339-7854 View (973) 339-7854
Photo of Lindsay Pianko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lindsay Pianko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Facing grief, loss, and life transitions can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. In my practice I specialize in grief and bereavement, as well as mood disorders, helping clients process loss, depression, anxiety, and life challenges and transitions. With a strength-based and Trauma informed approach, I help clients process their experiences while uncovering resilience and meaning. Whether you’re coping with loss or struggling with mood-related challenges, I am here to support you."
Facing grief, loss, and life transitions can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. In my practice I specialize in grief and bereavement, as well as mood disorders, helping clients process loss, depression, anxiety, and life challenges and transitions. With a strength-based and Trauma informed approach, I help clients process their experiences while uncovering resilience and meaning. Whether you’re coping with loss or struggling with mood-related challenges, I am here to support you."
(973) 313-5608 View (973) 313-5608
Photo of Christina Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christina Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in NJ. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families from diverse cultures/backgrounds and with adverse experiences. Some challenges my clients face include depression, anxiety, trauma, gender/sexuality identification, suicidal ideations, self-harm, difficulties with self-esteem, and conflicts within relationships.
Hello! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in NJ. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families from diverse cultures/backgrounds and with adverse experiences. Some challenges my clients face include depression, anxiety, trauma, gender/sexuality identification, suicidal ideations, self-harm, difficulties with self-esteem, and conflicts within relationships.
(973) 834-8222 View (973) 834-8222
Photo of Tricia Kostin, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Tricia Kostin
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Anxiety and depression can be crippling but you don't have to face it alone. When everything seems to go wrong what do you do? Probably the same things you always do because those behaviors are comfortable and familiar, not necessarily right. Now is the time to make different choices to support the life you want, even if you aren't sure what that life can look like. Call today to get started on making the necessary changes to improve your life.
Anxiety and depression can be crippling but you don't have to face it alone. When everything seems to go wrong what do you do? Probably the same things you always do because those behaviors are comfortable and familiar, not necessarily right. Now is the time to make different choices to support the life you want, even if you aren't sure what that life can look like. Call today to get started on making the necessary changes to improve your life.
(862) 259-7182 View (862) 259-7182
Photo of Jennifer Perera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Jennifer Perera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Accepting New Clients! Are you pregnant but not feeling like yourself? Or a new mom who feels like you are failing in the parenting business? Feel like you get upset with your partner for what seems to be “small things"? Perhaps you are trying desperately to get pregnant only to be faced with infertility or recurring miscarriages. Depression in women is quite common, we just don’t go around talking about it. We put on a happy face and do what we feel is expected of us. But statistics tell us that approximately 20% of women experience depression or anxiety while pregnant or just after having a baby.
Accepting New Clients! Are you pregnant but not feeling like yourself? Or a new mom who feels like you are failing in the parenting business? Feel like you get upset with your partner for what seems to be “small things"? Perhaps you are trying desperately to get pregnant only to be faced with infertility or recurring miscarriages. Depression in women is quite common, we just don’t go around talking about it. We put on a happy face and do what we feel is expected of us. But statistics tell us that approximately 20% of women experience depression or anxiety while pregnant or just after having a baby.
(973) 358-7636 View (973) 358-7636
Photo of Brigitt Yermakov, Counselor, LAC, ATR-P
Brigitt Yermakov
Counselor, LAC, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Hi, I’m so glad you made it here. My name is Brigitt Yermakov and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and Provisional Art Therapist. Wherever your journey has taken you, I’m here to offer a space where you can show up as you are. Life has so much worth holding onto, but there are moments, whether shaped by change, pain, or uncertainty, where it is hard to know which way is forward. My goal is to help you explore who you are, who you’ve been, and who you want to become, trusting that whatever unfolds in each session is exactly what’s needed, without pressure. You can be seen, you can be valued, and you are worth that commitment.
Hi, I’m so glad you made it here. My name is Brigitt Yermakov and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and Provisional Art Therapist. Wherever your journey has taken you, I’m here to offer a space where you can show up as you are. Life has so much worth holding onto, but there are moments, whether shaped by change, pain, or uncertainty, where it is hard to know which way is forward. My goal is to help you explore who you are, who you’ve been, and who you want to become, trusting that whatever unfolds in each session is exactly what’s needed, without pressure. You can be seen, you can be valued, and you are worth that commitment.
(973) 792-8612 View (973) 792-8612
Photo of Patricia Maffei-Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Patricia Maffei-Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If you feel overwhelmed and stuck, I am here for you. You've been in talk therapy but haven't seen the changes you yearn for. Maybe you're still carrying anxiety, hypervigilence or patterns you can't break. You need help right now and don't want to spend months waiting. I'm changing the traditional therapy model with intensive sessions - 90 minutes to full-day meetings designed to fit into your life and step up the healing process. I provide unhurried time to process trauma wounds, PTSD, grief and anxiety with a compassionate approach.
If you feel overwhelmed and stuck, I am here for you. You've been in talk therapy but haven't seen the changes you yearn for. Maybe you're still carrying anxiety, hypervigilence or patterns you can't break. You need help right now and don't want to spend months waiting. I'm changing the traditional therapy model with intensive sessions - 90 minutes to full-day meetings designed to fit into your life and step up the healing process. I provide unhurried time to process trauma wounds, PTSD, grief and anxiety with a compassionate approach.
(732) 365-4586 View (732) 365-4586

See more therapy options for Springfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Springfield, NJ who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
94% Social Anxiety
94% Health Anxiety
94% Driving Anxiety
90% Depression
76% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
63% BlueCross and BlueShield
60% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Springfield, NJ see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
12% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.