Therapists in Massapequa, NY

Photo of Erica Wilkinson, MHC-LP
Erica Wilkinson
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
Therapy is a gift. It is an opportunity to be seen, heard, understood, and supported in ways that you might not be. As a person-centered therapist, I don’t find success in doing something for the client, but rather in being someone for the client. Being a multicultural counselor, I understand the importance of viewing someone as a whole individual, as opposed to what is presented symptomatically. Through an integrative analytic and cognitive-behavioral approach, I empower clients to gain insight and overcome life’s stressors and hardships. Healing is a journey, let’s go through it together.
Therapy is a gift. It is an opportunity to be seen, heard, understood, and supported in ways that you might not be. As a person-centered therapist, I don’t find success in doing something for the client, but rather in being someone for the client. Being a multicultural counselor, I understand the importance of viewing someone as a whole individual, as opposed to what is presented symptomatically. Through an integrative analytic and cognitive-behavioral approach, I empower clients to gain insight and overcome life’s stressors and hardships. Healing is a journey, let’s go through it together.
(516) 363-2707 View (516) 363-2707
Photo of Samantha Pidgeon - Guided Counseling- Anxiety and Trauma Relief, LMHC, Counselor
Guided Counseling- Anxiety and Trauma Relief
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the need to please others, struggling with anxiety, or carrying the weight of past trauma? Do you find it hard to set boundaries or prioritize your own well-being? If you've been grappling with these challenges, it's important to know that anxiety and trauma don’t have to define your life. There are effective tools available to help you navigate your emotions without feeling so drained.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the need to please others, struggling with anxiety, or carrying the weight of past trauma? Do you find it hard to set boundaries or prioritize your own well-being? If you've been grappling with these challenges, it's important to know that anxiety and trauma don’t have to define your life. There are effective tools available to help you navigate your emotions without feeling so drained.
(516) 347-2673 View (516) 347-2673
Photo of Kathleen Cavallo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Cavallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
I have 25 year’s experience working with substance abuse, anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I focus on incorporating wellness into your everyday life, which is important for both adults and teens. I focus on building a good rapport and listening effectively by creating a positive and supportive environment. My approach targets building internal strength and resourcefulness. Understanding that dynamics of emotions and behaviors greatly impact our lives and relationships is a primary therapeutic goal. Structured therapy sessions should allow people to assess their choices and find solutions in a validating setting.
I have 25 year’s experience working with substance abuse, anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I focus on incorporating wellness into your everyday life, which is important for both adults and teens. I focus on building a good rapport and listening effectively by creating a positive and supportive environment. My approach targets building internal strength and resourcefulness. Understanding that dynamics of emotions and behaviors greatly impact our lives and relationships is a primary therapeutic goal. Structured therapy sessions should allow people to assess their choices and find solutions in a validating setting.
(516) 908-6266 View (516) 908-6266
Photo of Lauren Maietta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Maietta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
Reaching out for help can be challenging and often feels overwhelming. I understand first hand just how dark the path to recovery can seem. But please know, you are not alone! I specialize in working with young adults and adults ages 18+ who suffer from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, addiction, and life transitions. I utilize a collaborative and individualized approach so my client's always feel heard and understood. No two individuals will be treated the same!
Reaching out for help can be challenging and often feels overwhelming. I understand first hand just how dark the path to recovery can seem. But please know, you are not alone! I specialize in working with young adults and adults ages 18+ who suffer from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, addiction, and life transitions. I utilize a collaborative and individualized approach so my client's always feel heard and understood. No two individuals will be treated the same!
(516) 744-3217 View (516) 744-3217
Photo of Abigale Walker, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Abigale Walker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
My goal is to empower and motivate my clients to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. I am committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental, and trusting environment during each session. My focus is on building a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, emphasizing empathy, optimism, and solution-oriented strategies. I believe in the power of humor and positivity, and I enjoy celebrating every client's progress and successes, big or small. My therapeutic approach is grounded in creating a safe, trusting, comfortable space where clients can explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
My goal is to empower and motivate my clients to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. I am committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental, and trusting environment during each session. My focus is on building a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, emphasizing empathy, optimism, and solution-oriented strategies. I believe in the power of humor and positivity, and I enjoy celebrating every client's progress and successes, big or small. My therapeutic approach is grounded in creating a safe, trusting, comfortable space where clients can explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
(631) 818-2134 View (631) 818-2134
Photo of Judith B. Rosenblum, PhD, Psychologist
Judith B. Rosenblum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
Do you want better control over your life? We only have one life to live, so why not make it a happier and healthier life.You actually have a greater amount of control as to what happens to you than you realize. As a Psychologist, in teaching you techniques, I help clients to create happiness and better physical health through the science of Positive Emotions when connecting with others in every day life experiences. Feeling better emotionally leads to a happier life. Clients are helped through Hypnosis (if interested) and psychotherapy to eliminate anxiety/stress, depression, to have restful sleep, and to improve self-confidence.
Do you want better control over your life? We only have one life to live, so why not make it a happier and healthier life.You actually have a greater amount of control as to what happens to you than you realize. As a Psychologist, in teaching you techniques, I help clients to create happiness and better physical health through the science of Positive Emotions when connecting with others in every day life experiences. Feeling better emotionally leads to a happier life. Clients are helped through Hypnosis (if interested) and psychotherapy to eliminate anxiety/stress, depression, to have restful sleep, and to improve self-confidence.
(516) 409-8495 View (516) 409-8495
Photo of Elise Fabregas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elise Fabregas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
At every stage, life has its challenges. Allowing the voice of worry to be in the driver’s seat is not working for you. There is a way to navigate life better, and feel empowered no matter what is on your plate. I know, easier said than done. It’s just a matter of creating a new path. I can help you find it!
At every stage, life has its challenges. Allowing the voice of worry to be in the driver’s seat is not working for you. There is a way to navigate life better, and feel empowered no matter what is on your plate. I know, easier said than done. It’s just a matter of creating a new path. I can help you find it!
(516) 882-3741 View (516) 882-3741
Photo of Zachary Pardo, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zachary Pardo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758
An ideal client is a client that feels comfortable to laugh, geek out/nerd out with, cry, scream and shout and let everything out. An ideal client is someone that works with me and does their homework (yes, I give homework assignments lol). You put in what you get out therapy and I find that that is the best motto to have working in therapy.
An ideal client is a client that feels comfortable to laugh, geek out/nerd out with, cry, scream and shout and let everything out. An ideal client is someone that works with me and does their homework (yes, I give homework assignments lol). You put in what you get out therapy and I find that that is the best motto to have working in therapy.
(516) 613-5953 View (516) 613-5953
Photo of Julia Monfoletto, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Julia Monfoletto
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
I feel there is no right or wrong time in life to start therapy. Clients contact me because they have been feeling overwhelmed, down, or just not how they’re used to feeling. It may be hard to find enjoyment in life, with each day feeling like going-through-the-motions. My clients might have gone through a trauma, a loss, or other stress that left them feeling stuck in distress. They may be facing a new, big life change, and things just feel unmanageable. Emotions may feel like “too much,” and they just want to find relief.
I feel there is no right or wrong time in life to start therapy. Clients contact me because they have been feeling overwhelmed, down, or just not how they’re used to feeling. It may be hard to find enjoyment in life, with each day feeling like going-through-the-motions. My clients might have gone through a trauma, a loss, or other stress that left them feeling stuck in distress. They may be facing a new, big life change, and things just feel unmanageable. Emotions may feel like “too much,” and they just want to find relief.
(929) 556-6872 View (929) 556-6872
Photo of Michelle Gladstone, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Gladstone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
Michelle Gladstone is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2018. Michelle believes in helping her clients gain insight and understanding of what they may be struggling with and that they are not alone. She strives to help end the stigma of therapy and mental health issues by providing an empathic, supportive and safe environment. Michelle works collaboratively with her clients to help develop a “toolbox” of skills and strategies to cope with life’s stressors.
Michelle Gladstone is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2018. Michelle believes in helping her clients gain insight and understanding of what they may be struggling with and that they are not alone. She strives to help end the stigma of therapy and mental health issues by providing an empathic, supportive and safe environment. Michelle works collaboratively with her clients to help develop a “toolbox” of skills and strategies to cope with life’s stressors.
(516) 961-3648 View (516) 961-3648
Photo of Madeline Baloglou, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline Baloglou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
I believe therapy is a gift you give yourself. It is the space for healing, growing and change. As a therapist, I strive to connect with individuals to help achieve greater self-awareness and strength to overcome adversity. I help adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and life transitions that can be overbearing. With experience in both outpatient and inpatient treatment settings, I aspire to assist individuals by using a person- centered approach to live a healthier and happier life.
I believe therapy is a gift you give yourself. It is the space for healing, growing and change. As a therapist, I strive to connect with individuals to help achieve greater self-awareness and strength to overcome adversity. I help adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and life transitions that can be overbearing. With experience in both outpatient and inpatient treatment settings, I aspire to assist individuals by using a person- centered approach to live a healthier and happier life.
(516) 613-3680 View (516) 613-3680
Photo of Martyna Wegrzynowska, LMHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Martyna Wegrzynowska
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
Psychotherapy is a unique approach to a conversation about living. It is a constructive and helpful way to identify your goals. Anyone interested in finding a better way to look at themselves is welcome to develop new techniques, which we may discover together. As a Mental Health Counselor, I prioritize identifying new strategies that can provide you with a sense of balance and control that can benefit your emotional well-being and overall health. Counseling is a chance to focus on yourself, listen to your inner needs, and think about how to live better.
Psychotherapy is a unique approach to a conversation about living. It is a constructive and helpful way to identify your goals. Anyone interested in finding a better way to look at themselves is welcome to develop new techniques, which we may discover together. As a Mental Health Counselor, I prioritize identifying new strategies that can provide you with a sense of balance and control that can benefit your emotional well-being and overall health. Counseling is a chance to focus on yourself, listen to your inner needs, and think about how to live better.
(516) 550-4378 View (516) 550-4378
Photo of Robert Ruppert, LMHC, Counselor
Robert Ruppert
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey! I am here to help you become the best version of yourself according to your own values, beliefs, and self image. I have experience and enjoy working with mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, interpersonal/relationship issues, and anger management. I specialize in an eclectic model that utilizes modalities from motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Hey! I am here to help you become the best version of yourself according to your own values, beliefs, and self image. I have experience and enjoy working with mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, interpersonal/relationship issues, and anger management. I specialize in an eclectic model that utilizes modalities from motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
(516) 980-5336 View (516) 980-5336
Photo of Karen A Aldrich, LMHC, MS Ed, Counselor
Karen A Aldrich
Counselor, LMHC, MS Ed
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
We can sometimes be overwhelmed and feel lost. As a licensed mental health counselor, I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. With a deep understanding of various therapeutic methods, I strive to help you navigate through life's challenges and develop effective coping strategies tailored to your unique needs. My passion lies in empowering you to achieve personal growth and self-discovery. Through active listening and empathy, I aim to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust.
We can sometimes be overwhelmed and feel lost. As a licensed mental health counselor, I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. With a deep understanding of various therapeutic methods, I strive to help you navigate through life's challenges and develop effective coping strategies tailored to your unique needs. My passion lies in empowering you to achieve personal growth and self-discovery. Through active listening and empathy, I aim to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust.
(631) 614-6936 View (631) 614-6936
Photo of Jackie Hammel, LMHC
Jackie Hammel
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, worried or afraid. Maybe you've never felt heard or understood. Maybe you've reached a point in your life that something doesn't feel right or something has to change and you're just not sure what to do. If this is the case, then talking it through in a safe space is the next step. I believe beginning therapy is a courageous step toward being the healthiest version of yourself and living the best life possible, no matter what challenges you may be facing. My goal in therapy is to help you find healthy and safe ways to heal and alleviate symptoms that have proven to be problematic.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, worried or afraid. Maybe you've never felt heard or understood. Maybe you've reached a point in your life that something doesn't feel right or something has to change and you're just not sure what to do. If this is the case, then talking it through in a safe space is the next step. I believe beginning therapy is a courageous step toward being the healthiest version of yourself and living the best life possible, no matter what challenges you may be facing. My goal in therapy is to help you find healthy and safe ways to heal and alleviate symptoms that have proven to be problematic.
(516) 430-4226 View (516) 430-4226
Photo of Bethanie Milford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethanie Milford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
I provide trauma informed Autism/ADHD/other (qualitative) evaluations, immigration evaluations, and Psychotherapy for individuals, families and couples. My approach when collaborating with a patient providing therapy is to focus on their history, culture, identity and/or spirituality. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, determine solutions and create a sense of balance in your life while embracing your own beliefs. I provide therapy remotely and use various modalities through an integrative approach.
I provide trauma informed Autism/ADHD/other (qualitative) evaluations, immigration evaluations, and Psychotherapy for individuals, families and couples. My approach when collaborating with a patient providing therapy is to focus on their history, culture, identity and/or spirituality. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, determine solutions and create a sense of balance in your life while embracing your own beliefs. I provide therapy remotely and use various modalities through an integrative approach.
(917) 994-9674 View (917) 994-9674
Photo of Simi Schwartz, LCSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simi Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758
What began as a desire to help others became my new career as a therapist. After working both in the education and business worlds, I returned to school to follow my passion of helping others.I have over five years of experience as a therapist working with adolescent, young adult, and adult clients. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients cope effectively with anxiety and depression, increase self-esteem and manage life stressors.I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is at the heart of successful therapy. You know yourself best, and it is my job as a therapist to support you in this journey.
What began as a desire to help others became my new career as a therapist. After working both in the education and business worlds, I returned to school to follow my passion of helping others.I have over five years of experience as a therapist working with adolescent, young adult, and adult clients. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients cope effectively with anxiety and depression, increase self-esteem and manage life stressors.I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is at the heart of successful therapy. You know yourself best, and it is my job as a therapist to support you in this journey.
(631) 212-2766 View (631) 212-2766
Photo of Kathleen McKiernan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen McKiernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical therapist whose passion for mental wellbeing is the driving force informing my practice with clients. I am down to earth, insightful and I believe in meeting my clients where they are- human to human. My therapeutic approach is to provide an inviting space of warmth, understanding, and clinical expertise with intentions of meeting clients where they are, walking shoulder to shoulder in partnership to overcome challenges or obstacles that may be preventing them from their individual potential.
I am a licensed clinical therapist whose passion for mental wellbeing is the driving force informing my practice with clients. I am down to earth, insightful and I believe in meeting my clients where they are- human to human. My therapeutic approach is to provide an inviting space of warmth, understanding, and clinical expertise with intentions of meeting clients where they are, walking shoulder to shoulder in partnership to overcome challenges or obstacles that may be preventing them from their individual potential.
(516) 563-4048 View (516) 563-4048
Photo of Penny Siegmann, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penny Siegmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758
I've been in Private Practice in Massapequa for the past 27 years, and am the owner of Counseling Services of Long Island. I am also an Adjunct Professor at a local University. At CSLI, we accept many insurance plans, and provide individual, family, group and specialized counseling for couples. In addition to general practice issues, our specialties include CBT for anxiety, Mindfulness Training/Complementary Therapies, End-of-life/Bereavement program, difficult teens/families, workplace/EAP, and corporate consultation. We also house a very special copyrighted ADHD Program - 'From Distraction to Action' for teens and their parents.
I've been in Private Practice in Massapequa for the past 27 years, and am the owner of Counseling Services of Long Island. I am also an Adjunct Professor at a local University. At CSLI, we accept many insurance plans, and provide individual, family, group and specialized counseling for couples. In addition to general practice issues, our specialties include CBT for anxiety, Mindfulness Training/Complementary Therapies, End-of-life/Bereavement program, difficult teens/families, workplace/EAP, and corporate consultation. We also house a very special copyrighted ADHD Program - 'From Distraction to Action' for teens and their parents.
(516) 271-1286 View (516) 271-1286
Photo of Debora Gomes, LMHC, Counselor
Debora Gomes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
Life often comes with many unexpected challenges and we can often feel overwhelmed by big feelings and life events. Sometimes this can lead us to feeling stuck, not knowing which steps to take to move forward in life. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where together we can explore life’s challenges. My goal is to help guide you through processing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and learn healthier ways of coping with life’s stressors.
Life often comes with many unexpected challenges and we can often feel overwhelmed by big feelings and life events. Sometimes this can lead us to feeling stuck, not knowing which steps to take to move forward in life. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where together we can explore life’s challenges. My goal is to help guide you through processing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and learn healthier ways of coping with life’s stressors.
(516) 430-4226 View (516) 430-4226
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Massapequa, NY

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Massapequa, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
83% Self Esteem
77% Coping Skills
71% Stress
67% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
61% Oxford

How Therapists in Massapequa, NY see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Massapequa?

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.