Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Bradley K. Fox, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Bradley K. Fox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we hit a wall. Maybe we would usually describe our life as going pretty well, but lately we find it harder to find motivation, or we’re more irritable, anxious, or just plain sad. Sometimes we’ve struggled a long time (with nightmares, stress, bad memories, or feeling depressed) and it's beyond what a friend can help with. Whether your goals are to manage emotions, sleep better, think more clearly, feel better about yourself or key relationships, finally accept what can't be changed, better understand relationship patterns, or find a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life, counseling / psychotherapy may be helpful.
Sometimes we hit a wall. Maybe we would usually describe our life as going pretty well, but lately we find it harder to find motivation, or we’re more irritable, anxious, or just plain sad. Sometimes we’ve struggled a long time (with nightmares, stress, bad memories, or feeling depressed) and it's beyond what a friend can help with. Whether your goals are to manage emotions, sleep better, think more clearly, feel better about yourself or key relationships, finally accept what can't be changed, better understand relationship patterns, or find a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life, counseling / psychotherapy may be helpful.
(614) 924-7411 x3 View (614) 924-7411 x3
Photo of Macey Hawout, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Macey Hawout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you a young adult woman experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and even trauma? Self-discovery and creating/finding identity are goals I work best with. In my most recent job, I have found that domestic violence survivors and women who experience issues specific to being a woman have piqued my interest. As a therapist, the most rewarding thing is to guide women toward embracing themselves for who they are, heal past wounds, and empower them to live fully and authentically. I believe I have been given a purpose in this world to serve others, and that's what I was created to do.
Are you a young adult woman experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and even trauma? Self-discovery and creating/finding identity are goals I work best with. In my most recent job, I have found that domestic violence survivors and women who experience issues specific to being a woman have piqued my interest. As a therapist, the most rewarding thing is to guide women toward embracing themselves for who they are, heal past wounds, and empower them to live fully and authentically. I believe I have been given a purpose in this world to serve others, and that's what I was created to do.
(380) 214-2821 View (380) 214-2821
Photo of Kerry Schantz-Held, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Kerry Schantz-Held
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe that therapy is first and foremost a relationship. I strive to create an environment that fosters this connection, acceptance, and growth. My interpersonal style is validating and warm, while authentically leaning into emotion and non-judgement. It is my goal that each client feels safe and supported to explore the concerns which brought them in, while also embracing the challenge of trying something new. While initiating therapy is intimidating, I hope that by fostering a strength-based, brave space, I can help you to work toward healing, growth, and increased fulfillment in your life.
I believe that therapy is first and foremost a relationship. I strive to create an environment that fosters this connection, acceptance, and growth. My interpersonal style is validating and warm, while authentically leaning into emotion and non-judgement. It is my goal that each client feels safe and supported to explore the concerns which brought them in, while also embracing the challenge of trying something new. While initiating therapy is intimidating, I hope that by fostering a strength-based, brave space, I can help you to work toward healing, growth, and increased fulfillment in your life.
(380) 207-9730 View (380) 207-9730
Photo of Clara Ann Huffman, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Clara Ann Huffman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
(614) 881-4729 View (614) 881-4729
Photo of Vincent Colecchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Vincent Colecchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
(614) 683-4566 View (614) 683-4566
Photo of Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Jennifer Catlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Catlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Everyone needs some help from time to time, and that's okay. Whether you desire healing from past events or you're stuck deciding which direction to take, I would love to come and walk beside you and be there with you. You are the expert on your life, but sometimes having a supportive partner in exploring your life can help. My practice and guiding orientation is a holistic approach, one that focuses on your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Every person is unique and I like to honor that by emphasizing your innate strengths and providing you with tools you need. I provide a safe place to share your hurts and to heal.
Everyone needs some help from time to time, and that's okay. Whether you desire healing from past events or you're stuck deciding which direction to take, I would love to come and walk beside you and be there with you. You are the expert on your life, but sometimes having a supportive partner in exploring your life can help. My practice and guiding orientation is a holistic approach, one that focuses on your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Every person is unique and I like to honor that by emphasizing your innate strengths and providing you with tools you need. I provide a safe place to share your hurts and to heal.
(614) 942-8737 View (614) 942-8737
Photo of Mary Finley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mary Finley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
(380) 666-6447 View (380) 666-6447
Photo of Allison Fagan, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Allison Fagan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
(614) 957-1280 View (614) 957-1280
Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(380) 333-4253 View (380) 333-4253
Photo of Spader Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Spader Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, COBA
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in Psychological Testing/Evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. If you are concerned about learning/school problems (including dyslexia), attention/focus difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, and/or developmental delays in yourself or your child, I welcome you to contact me. I also offer testing for giftedness, school admissions procedures, and County Board of Developmental Disabilities eligibility.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in Psychological Testing/Evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. If you are concerned about learning/school problems (including dyslexia), attention/focus difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, and/or developmental delays in yourself or your child, I welcome you to contact me. I also offer testing for giftedness, school admissions procedures, and County Board of Developmental Disabilities eligibility.
(614) 532-4197 View (614) 532-4197
Photo of Lara K Palay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Lara K Palay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
(614) 389-9146 View (614) 389-9146
Photo of Amy Weller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Amy Weller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
(380) 600-8835 View (380) 600-8835
Jon Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Jon Lucas is a Licensed Independent Social Worker, who has been practicing for 10 years. He graduated from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH with his Master's Degree in Social Work with a focus on Community practice. Jon believes in client centered therapy and that each person is the expert in the own lives and that each person carriers with them the capacity to overcome life's challenges, sometimes they just need a bit of help to identify this.
Jon Lucas is a Licensed Independent Social Worker, who has been practicing for 10 years. He graduated from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH with his Master's Degree in Social Work with a focus on Community practice. Jon believes in client centered therapy and that each person is the expert in the own lives and that each person carriers with them the capacity to overcome life's challenges, sometimes they just need a bit of help to identify this.
(380) 600-9396 View (380) 600-9396
Photo of Cindy Herzberg, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Cindy Herzberg
Counselor, EdD, LSW, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
(614) 412-4124 View (614) 412-4124
Photo of Dr. Henry Stringer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
(614) 654-5912 View (614) 654-5912
Photo of Stacey Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Stacey Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(614) 389-9387 View (614) 389-9387
Photo of Stephanie Eich, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Stephanie Eich
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I believe we are all complex beings and that sometimes we need to untangle the past to make sense of the present. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where you are able to speak freely, practice vulnerability and build resilience though personal growth. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to express and identify their emotions to build self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
I believe we are all complex beings and that sometimes we need to untangle the past to make sense of the present. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where you are able to speak freely, practice vulnerability and build resilience though personal growth. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to express and identify their emotions to build self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
(614) 683-3690 View (614) 683-3690
Photo of Julie Ann Wnukowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Julie Ann Wnukowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MEd
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
What is blocking you from living a healthy, whole, fulfilling life? Have you been derailed, discouraged, or confused about things going on in your life or around you? I'd like to explore this with you. I am passionate about supporting people or couples who are finding themselves in particularly challenging situations, life transitions, or difficult relationships. Are you having a tough time navigating some things at work or at home? Do you have challenges that keep resurfacing in your life? Let's figure out some solutions together.
What is blocking you from living a healthy, whole, fulfilling life? Have you been derailed, discouraged, or confused about things going on in your life or around you? I'd like to explore this with you. I am passionate about supporting people or couples who are finding themselves in particularly challenging situations, life transitions, or difficult relationships. Are you having a tough time navigating some things at work or at home? Do you have challenges that keep resurfacing in your life? Let's figure out some solutions together.
(614) 412-0879 View (614) 412-0879
Photo of Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
(614) 383-9437 x202 View (614) 383-9437 x202

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
75% Optum
70% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.