Therapists in New York, NY

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Photo of Sean Bedford, Counselor in New York, NY
Sean Bedford
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Sean is a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals and families in clinical settings. His experience ranges from working with adolescents in foster care to adult individuals/couples in the community struggling with a wide variety of mental health and relationship issues. Sean has spent 6 years providing counseling services to teens on the autism spectrum with multiple challenges and/or intensive psychiatric needs. With a person-centered approach, Sean provides individualized care to clients based on their needs.
Sean is a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals and families in clinical settings. His experience ranges from working with adolescents in foster care to adult individuals/couples in the community struggling with a wide variety of mental health and relationship issues. Sean has spent 6 years providing counseling services to teens on the autism spectrum with multiple challenges and/or intensive psychiatric needs. With a person-centered approach, Sean provides individualized care to clients based on their needs.
(929) 415-9480 View (929) 415-9480
Photo of Chris Christian, PhD, Psychologist in New York, NY
Chris Christian, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Dr. Christian is a licensed psychologist and a trained psychoanalyst with over 20 years of clinical experience helping patients with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. He is on the Faculty of the Psychoanalytic Association of New York; and a clinical supervisor at City College, City University of New York. He has been a staff Psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Medical Center, and the New York Methodist Hospital. He is the author, co-author, and co-editor of several books, book chapters, and papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Dr. Christian is a licensed psychologist and a trained psychoanalyst with over 20 years of clinical experience helping patients with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. He is on the Faculty of the Psychoanalytic Association of New York; and a clinical supervisor at City College, City University of New York. He has been a staff Psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Medical Center, and the New York Methodist Hospital. He is the author, co-author, and co-editor of several books, book chapters, and papers in peer-reviewed journals.
(646) 549-8007 View (646) 549-8007
Photo of Katie Bellas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Katie Bellas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I love being a psychotherapist and feel privileged to be a part of my patients’ lives. I work with adults who are struggling with life transitions, identity building, relationship issues, sexuality, and self-esteem, with the ultimate goal of helping one develop an honest, integrated, and gratifying sense of self. I also work with teenagers and pre-teens who are juggling the many demands of that transitional time. My style is warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, and interactive.
I love being a psychotherapist and feel privileged to be a part of my patients’ lives. I work with adults who are struggling with life transitions, identity building, relationship issues, sexuality, and self-esteem, with the ultimate goal of helping one develop an honest, integrated, and gratifying sense of self. I also work with teenagers and pre-teens who are juggling the many demands of that transitional time. My style is warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, and interactive.
(551) 313-9182 View (551) 313-9182
Photo of Center for Personal Growth and Creativity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Center for Personal Growth and Creativity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR, CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with unwanted sexual behaviors, pornography or obsessive fantasy? Are you the partner of someone who is? If so, there is help. At the Center for Personal Growth we strive to maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful environment to treat both sex addicts and/or partners affected by sex addiction. Our Director is a seasoned therapist with over 20 years experience treating sex addiction and other compulsive behaviors. He is also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), having trained with Dr. Patrick Carnes, the acknowledged pioneer and leader in the field of sexual addiction and relationship issues.
Are you struggling with unwanted sexual behaviors, pornography or obsessive fantasy? Are you the partner of someone who is? If so, there is help. At the Center for Personal Growth we strive to maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful environment to treat both sex addicts and/or partners affected by sex addiction. Our Director is a seasoned therapist with over 20 years experience treating sex addiction and other compulsive behaviors. He is also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), having trained with Dr. Patrick Carnes, the acknowledged pioneer and leader in the field of sexual addiction and relationship issues.
(646) 681-5168 View (646) 681-5168
Photo of Stephen Josephson, Psychologist in New York, NY
Stephen Josephson
Psychologist, PhD, ABBP, ABPP, PC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065
I work best with adolescents and adults with a clear desire to make behavioral changes in their life and are not content with insight alone. They must be willing to actively collaborate in getting better and commit to learning new strategies for coping.
I work best with adolescents and adults with a clear desire to make behavioral changes in their life and are not content with insight alone. They must be willing to actively collaborate in getting better and commit to learning new strategies for coping.
(646) 606-2602 View (646) 606-2602
Photo of Gitty Rubin, Counselor in New York, NY
Gitty Rubin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Like most human beings, you are doing your best trying to deal with the cards life dealt you. You are motivated and want to improve the quality of your life; only life hasn’t always provided you with the answers. If you are like most people, you have put in a lot of effort and often ended up disappointed in those ‘proven’ methods. However, your life and your brain are unique. Just like you can’t debate whether a hammer or screwdriver is ‘better’, there is no ‘best’ psychological method.
Like most human beings, you are doing your best trying to deal with the cards life dealt you. You are motivated and want to improve the quality of your life; only life hasn’t always provided you with the answers. If you are like most people, you have put in a lot of effort and often ended up disappointed in those ‘proven’ methods. However, your life and your brain are unique. Just like you can’t debate whether a hammer or screwdriver is ‘better’, there is no ‘best’ psychological method.
(646) 257-4170 x4 View (646) 257-4170 x4
Photo of Jenna Eldred, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Jenna Eldred
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
Hi, I'm Jenna! As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for you to be vulnerable throughout your journey of self-exploration and acceptance. We will work together to develop new coping skills and approaches to achieve the changes you wish to see in your life. Therapy is a journey that may be difficult and uncomfortable at times, but it is often in discomfort where we see the most change.
Hi, I'm Jenna! As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for you to be vulnerable throughout your journey of self-exploration and acceptance. We will work together to develop new coping skills and approaches to achieve the changes you wish to see in your life. Therapy is a journey that may be difficult and uncomfortable at times, but it is often in discomfort where we see the most change.
(347) 679-6465 View (347) 679-6465
Photo of Zenspeak Public Speaking Anxiety Center in New York, NY
Zenspeak Public Speaking Anxiety Center
MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
Our workshop is focused on results. Discussion of social anxiety issues comprises part of a typical session, but the main emphasis is on gradual exposure with exercises targeting all aspects of anxiety in interpersonal and small group interaction. You will become a more skilled and confident communicator in all area of life. There is hope, and we can definitely provide the help in a comfortable, supportive environment.
Our workshop is focused on results. Discussion of social anxiety issues comprises part of a typical session, but the main emphasis is on gradual exposure with exercises targeting all aspects of anxiety in interpersonal and small group interaction. You will become a more skilled and confident communicator in all area of life. There is hope, and we can definitely provide the help in a comfortable, supportive environment.
(646) 480-6096 View (646) 480-6096
Photo of Katerina Stratigis, Psychologist in New York, NY
Katerina Stratigis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10175
Thrive Psychology is the premier therapy & counseling center dedicated to women’s wellness. We empower clients to overcome life’s toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Thrive has helped thousands of clients live their best lives through a growing network of in-person and online services. Thrive therapists are the top of their field and use only the most advanced evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, reach out to us and let us help you THRIVE.
Thrive Psychology is the premier therapy & counseling center dedicated to women’s wellness. We empower clients to overcome life’s toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Thrive has helped thousands of clients live their best lives through a growing network of in-person and online services. Thrive therapists are the top of their field and use only the most advanced evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, reach out to us and let us help you THRIVE.
(929) 209-3481 View (929) 209-3481
Photo of Susan Gutwill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Susan Gutwill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I am a trained and experienced therapist in relational psychoanalysis as well as traumatology. I was part of bringing these two together some decades ago. In addition I understand eating problems and body image distortion. My professional writing covers these areas. I work with hypnosis, guided visualization and the body, as well as sharing a deepening conversation about you. I want to meet you right there with curiosity, warmth, growing empathy and care. I am an open and informal person by nature yet, of course, I work within professional boundaries. It is about you. I look forward to meeting you.
I am a trained and experienced therapist in relational psychoanalysis as well as traumatology. I was part of bringing these two together some decades ago. In addition I understand eating problems and body image distortion. My professional writing covers these areas. I work with hypnosis, guided visualization and the body, as well as sharing a deepening conversation about you. I want to meet you right there with curiosity, warmth, growing empathy and care. I am an open and informal person by nature yet, of course, I work within professional boundaries. It is about you. I look forward to meeting you.
(732) 719-7991 View (732) 719-7991
Photo of Fengtao Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Fengtao Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, it's great to meet you! Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious about transitioning to parenthood? Do you have chronic stress, sadness, anger, or fear related to parenting and relationship challenges? Is your child having social, behavioral, and emotional difficulties? Being a parent can be the most amazing yet challenging experience. I am here to support you through the process. I recognize clients are the experts that they are, and I hope to make you feel heard, supported, and empowered during our collaborations.
Hello, it's great to meet you! Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious about transitioning to parenthood? Do you have chronic stress, sadness, anger, or fear related to parenting and relationship challenges? Is your child having social, behavioral, and emotional difficulties? Being a parent can be the most amazing yet challenging experience. I am here to support you through the process. I recognize clients are the experts that they are, and I hope to make you feel heard, supported, and empowered during our collaborations.
(646) 663-5597 View (646) 663-5597
Photo of Rebecca Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rebecca Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Hi, I'm Becca! I’m so glad you’re here, and hopefully ready to take the next step in beginning therapy. I am a relatable therapist who really gets it. I'm passionate about guiding others through life's challenges. As a psychodynamic therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where we can explore and overcome the obstacles that may be hindering aspects of your life.
Hi, I'm Becca! I’m so glad you’re here, and hopefully ready to take the next step in beginning therapy. I am a relatable therapist who really gets it. I'm passionate about guiding others through life's challenges. As a psychodynamic therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where we can explore and overcome the obstacles that may be hindering aspects of your life.
(646) 328-6595 View (646) 328-6595
Photo of Lori Spector, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Lori Spector
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
Where would you like to begin? You can begin at the beginning, or you can begin where you are now -- either path will lead you to understanding and healing. Together we will uncover the layers of patterns developed over the years, giving you a fresh perspective on your life. I have been a psychotherapist for more than 25 years, working with adults and couples who want to free themselves from pain and suffering, minimize internal struggle and be in harmony with themselves and others.
Where would you like to begin? You can begin at the beginning, or you can begin where you are now -- either path will lead you to understanding and healing. Together we will uncover the layers of patterns developed over the years, giving you a fresh perspective on your life. I have been a psychotherapist for more than 25 years, working with adults and couples who want to free themselves from pain and suffering, minimize internal struggle and be in harmony with themselves and others.
(917) 816-6343 View (917) 816-6343
Photo of Melissa Tihinen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Melissa Tihinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
(646) 760-8343 View (646) 760-8343
Photo of Gabe Lopez, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Gabe Lopez
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you confused about your gender, sexuality, or relationship with sex? Are you struggling to stop using substances that are causing life to feel out of control, but it feels like too much to take on alone? Finding a therapist to help and support you is the right place to start. If you thought, "Oh, that's me." when reading any of these questions, you've come to the right place. As you begin to talk about what you're going through in a safe and judgement free space, you will soon realize that healing is possible. I am here to join you in the chaos and help make sense of it all.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you confused about your gender, sexuality, or relationship with sex? Are you struggling to stop using substances that are causing life to feel out of control, but it feels like too much to take on alone? Finding a therapist to help and support you is the right place to start. If you thought, "Oh, that's me." when reading any of these questions, you've come to the right place. As you begin to talk about what you're going through in a safe and judgement free space, you will soon realize that healing is possible. I am here to join you in the chaos and help make sense of it all.
(347) 970-8331 View (347) 970-8331
Photo of Joan Cade, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Joan Cade
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MS, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
Joan Cade is a licensed psychoanalyst, parent counselor and early childhood educational and psychological consultant. In her private psychotherapy practice, Joan has extensive experience working with adults on a wide range of issues including: relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, defining life goals, work satisfaction, creative self-expression, self-esteem, stress-related physical symptoms, and parenting. For the treatment of depression and anxiety, Joan believes the benefits of talk therapy can be augmented by incorporating healthy practices such as sufficient sleep, aerobic exercise, breathing techniques, and good nutrition into one's daily life. Joan provides guidance to her patients to support them in implementing these practices.
Joan Cade is a licensed psychoanalyst, parent counselor and early childhood educational and psychological consultant. In her private psychotherapy practice, Joan has extensive experience working with adults on a wide range of issues including: relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, defining life goals, work satisfaction, creative self-expression, self-esteem, stress-related physical symptoms, and parenting. For the treatment of depression and anxiety, Joan believes the benefits of talk therapy can be augmented by incorporating healthy practices such as sufficient sleep, aerobic exercise, breathing techniques, and good nutrition into one's daily life. Joan provides guidance to her patients to support them in implementing these practices.
(646) 600-5170 View (646) 600-5170
Photo of Sarah Kern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Sarah Kern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Life can present with many ups and downs: from the pressures and stress of day to day life to the challenges inherent in major life transitions. Sarah Kern, LCSW PLLC is a private therapy practice based in New York City and my mission is to help individuals and families navigate the ups and downs of life. By working together to shift patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, we can achieve growth to flourish in school, work, social relationships and beyond.
Life can present with many ups and downs: from the pressures and stress of day to day life to the challenges inherent in major life transitions. Sarah Kern, LCSW PLLC is a private therapy practice based in New York City and my mission is to help individuals and families navigate the ups and downs of life. By working together to shift patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, we can achieve growth to flourish in school, work, social relationships and beyond.
(646) 766-0601 View (646) 766-0601
Photo of Elizabeth Marks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Elizabeth Marks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Elizabeth Marks, LMSW believes that we all have the strength and ability to make positive change in our lives when given the proper support and guidance. Wherever you are in life; starting a new job, doubting a relationship, struggling with self-esteem - Elizabeth will connect and work with you to establish and attain your goals. Through several years of clinical experience, she has found that therapy is most effective when grounded in understanding and motivation. Her distinctive style is honest and collaborative allowing clients to feel safe and inspired to make powerful strides towards a more fulfilled self.
Elizabeth Marks, LMSW believes that we all have the strength and ability to make positive change in our lives when given the proper support and guidance. Wherever you are in life; starting a new job, doubting a relationship, struggling with self-esteem - Elizabeth will connect and work with you to establish and attain your goals. Through several years of clinical experience, she has found that therapy is most effective when grounded in understanding and motivation. Her distinctive style is honest and collaborative allowing clients to feel safe and inspired to make powerful strides towards a more fulfilled self.
(332) 239-6193 View (332) 239-6193
Photo of Cope With School NYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Cope With School NYC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
Do you, your child or teen suffer from anxiety, depression, sleep issues or other difficulties at school, home or work? These problems can cause a great deal of pain, sadness, and frustration. Are you or your loved-one faced with the challenge of adjusting to a major life change, such as a death in the family, a medical illness, or a divorce? Do you or your child have a learning disability or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? This can impact self-esteem and functioning at school and at home. Our therapists at Cope With School NYC can help.
Do you, your child or teen suffer from anxiety, depression, sleep issues or other difficulties at school, home or work? These problems can cause a great deal of pain, sadness, and frustration. Are you or your loved-one faced with the challenge of adjusting to a major life change, such as a death in the family, a medical illness, or a divorce? Do you or your child have a learning disability or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? This can impact self-esteem and functioning at school and at home. Our therapists at Cope With School NYC can help.
(646) 493-0662 View (646) 493-0662
Photo of Rande Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rande Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Schooled in both Eastern and Western psychology, I bring a contemplative, fluid perspective to the exploration of the human mind and the alleviation of suffering. Using a psychoanalytic, interpersonal approach, I help my clients make meaning from experience and expand their understanding of self. Together we find pathways that lead beyond old limitations and engraved patterns of behavior towards a life of greater freedom and ease. I am strong but gentle, and able to contain a great deal of distress.
Schooled in both Eastern and Western psychology, I bring a contemplative, fluid perspective to the exploration of the human mind and the alleviation of suffering. Using a psychoanalytic, interpersonal approach, I help my clients make meaning from experience and expand their understanding of self. Together we find pathways that lead beyond old limitations and engraved patterns of behavior towards a life of greater freedom and ease. I am strong but gentle, and able to contain a great deal of distress.
(646) 791-2826 View (646) 791-2826

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.