Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

View neighborhoods in Philadelphia
Photo of Sheria Y Francis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sheria Y Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! Welcome! I believe transformation happens when we feel safe enough to be seen, and supported enough to grow. I believe in the possibility of transformative change for anyone who seeks it. My passion involves helping clients navigate the space between “where I am” and “where I want to be” with honesty, compassion, and tools that last far beyond our sessions. Therapy is not about perfection; it’s about progress, presence, and peace. Let's travel this journey together!
Accepting New Clients! Welcome! I believe transformation happens when we feel safe enough to be seen, and supported enough to grow. I believe in the possibility of transformative change for anyone who seeks it. My passion involves helping clients navigate the space between “where I am” and “where I want to be” with honesty, compassion, and tools that last far beyond our sessions. Therapy is not about perfection; it’s about progress, presence, and peace. Let's travel this journey together!
(412) 819-2324 View (412) 819-2324
Photo of Yancun Wisseh, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MSMHC
Yancun Wisseh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MSMHC
Philadelphia, PA 19103
The helping profession which is often referred to as therapy or counseling has been my life-long goal. My desire has made me a patient, attentive, and non-judgmental listener and has shaped my approach to understanding clients’ needs better. I am also supportive and seek positivity in every situation presented. I thrive to make clients feel safe including even reluctant clients to find their own way during treatment but also help clients to learn how to take personal responsibility to take charge of their behavior. I facilitate, encourage, empower, and help the client discover their potential.
The helping profession which is often referred to as therapy or counseling has been my life-long goal. My desire has made me a patient, attentive, and non-judgmental listener and has shaped my approach to understanding clients’ needs better. I am also supportive and seek positivity in every situation presented. I thrive to make clients feel safe including even reluctant clients to find their own way during treatment but also help clients to learn how to take personal responsibility to take charge of their behavior. I facilitate, encourage, empower, and help the client discover their potential.
(215) 366-0118 View (215) 366-0118
Photo of Chelsea Lightbourn - Peace, Love, & Therapy with Chelsea, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Peace, Love, & Therapy with Chelsea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Just like my clients, I am a person/clinician, with many layers. Starting my career from the basis of a counseling degree rooted in trauma, I've worked with a spectrum of disorders since 2016. If you decide to make the empowered choice to step into this safe space you'll be met with my humor, specialized treatment in ADHD/ADD, use of dialectical behavior therapy & other modalities, and care for borderline personality disorders, women's issues, and relationship issues. With neurodivergent-friendly tactics, I can help clients to set and reach goals based on their own specialized parameters.
Just like my clients, I am a person/clinician, with many layers. Starting my career from the basis of a counseling degree rooted in trauma, I've worked with a spectrum of disorders since 2016. If you decide to make the empowered choice to step into this safe space you'll be met with my humor, specialized treatment in ADHD/ADD, use of dialectical behavior therapy & other modalities, and care for borderline personality disorders, women's issues, and relationship issues. With neurodivergent-friendly tactics, I can help clients to set and reach goals based on their own specialized parameters.
(215) 798-7694 View (215) 798-7694
Photo of Megan Bousquet, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Megan Bousquet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Throughout a woman’s life there are many emotional shifts and it takes strength to reach out for support! I understand the many challenges and stress that sometimes might have you not feeling like yourself. Do you feel alone, anxious, tired, sad, angry, irritable, or stressed? I work with women who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief and loss, fertility, miscarriage, transition to motherhood, and other life changing events. I have specialized training in anxiety, maternal mental health (pregnancy, birth, postpartum, motherhood), child development, and eating disorders.
Throughout a woman’s life there are many emotional shifts and it takes strength to reach out for support! I understand the many challenges and stress that sometimes might have you not feeling like yourself. Do you feel alone, anxious, tired, sad, angry, irritable, or stressed? I work with women who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief and loss, fertility, miscarriage, transition to motherhood, and other life changing events. I have specialized training in anxiety, maternal mental health (pregnancy, birth, postpartum, motherhood), child development, and eating disorders.
View
Photo of Sally McAfee, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sally McAfee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I am Sally! Welcome to a new adventure and journey in your life, which promises a more rewarding future for yourself! I look forward to meeting you and getting to know to you! Did you know it takes courage and strength to enter therapy? Do you long to be listened to, have your feelings heard and understood without judgment or criticism? How about building your confidence, peace of mind and ability to depend on yourself? Are you interested in improving your ability to balance your academics, social life and personal time? Reconnect to your best self, or discover it for the first time!
Hi, I am Sally! Welcome to a new adventure and journey in your life, which promises a more rewarding future for yourself! I look forward to meeting you and getting to know to you! Did you know it takes courage and strength to enter therapy? Do you long to be listened to, have your feelings heard and understood without judgment or criticism? How about building your confidence, peace of mind and ability to depend on yourself? Are you interested in improving your ability to balance your academics, social life and personal time? Reconnect to your best self, or discover it for the first time!
(267) 754-2690 View (267) 754-2690
Photo of Sean McCann - Helping Wind Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Helping Wind Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Philadelphia, PA 19129
So, you're getting divorced. First, I'm sorry you're going through this, or any other upsetting and life-altering experience, including job loss, grief, or litigation, among others. I'm sure getting to this point has been no fun at all. And now comes the hard part: hanging onto yourself while your life gets rearranged.
So, you're getting divorced. First, I'm sorry you're going through this, or any other upsetting and life-altering experience, including job loss, grief, or litigation, among others. I'm sure getting to this point has been no fun at all. And now comes the hard part: hanging onto yourself while your life gets rearranged.
(215) 352-4269 View (215) 352-4269
Photo of Alea Frazier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alea Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I’m Alea, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 13 years of experience helping adults navigate anger management, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and major life transitions. I specialize in creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow. I work with adults (18–60) who may feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Whether you're managing daily stress, coping with loss, or trying to break patterns that no longer serve you, I’ll meet you where you are with empathy, honesty, and a collaborative mindset. My therapy style ble
Hi, I’m Alea, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 13 years of experience helping adults navigate anger management, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and major life transitions. I specialize in creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow. I work with adults (18–60) who may feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Whether you're managing daily stress, coping with loss, or trying to break patterns that no longer serve you, I’ll meet you where you are with empathy, honesty, and a collaborative mindset. My therapy style ble
(484) 292-2082 View (484) 292-2082
Photo of Meg Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LSW
Meg Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LSW
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Maybe things are feeling out of control? Or perhaps you are feeling alone and you need someone to talk to? It can be difficult to ask for help in those moments, but they are also the most powerful moments to be witnessed and accepted for who you are—to invite and make space for the beauty and the hurt, the difficult, the confusing, and the wonderful. If you reach out, I can provide a space where all parts of you are welcome and seen.
Maybe things are feeling out of control? Or perhaps you are feeling alone and you need someone to talk to? It can be difficult to ask for help in those moments, but they are also the most powerful moments to be witnessed and accepted for who you are—to invite and make space for the beauty and the hurt, the difficult, the confusing, and the wonderful. If you reach out, I can provide a space where all parts of you are welcome and seen.
(484) 759-7140 View (484) 759-7140
Photo of Jessica Jemmott, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Jessica Jemmott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Online Only
Welcome to The Lamp Counseling Center. We strive to create a caring environment where you feel safe, seen, and heard during your journey of healing and personal growth. We will collaboratively engage in a variety of traditional and non-traditional approaches including culturally affirming Cognitive Therapy (CBT), Expressive Therapies and Trauma-Informed Mindfulness. Healing starts here.
Welcome to The Lamp Counseling Center. We strive to create a caring environment where you feel safe, seen, and heard during your journey of healing and personal growth. We will collaboratively engage in a variety of traditional and non-traditional approaches including culturally affirming Cognitive Therapy (CBT), Expressive Therapies and Trauma-Informed Mindfulness. Healing starts here.
(215) 274-0410 View (215) 274-0410
Photo of Tiffany S. Clarke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tiffany S. Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Seeking therapy can be incredibly difficult. Many of us blindly navigate life with conflicts that we relate to the now instead of understanding our pasts. I understand the stigma placed on mental health, but also aim to work at your speed to make this a comfortable experience. During this therapeutic journey, you are making a choice to begin your true healing process with a dedicated guide. My style is person-centered and interactive, which aims to allow your authentic self to emerge.
Seeking therapy can be incredibly difficult. Many of us blindly navigate life with conflicts that we relate to the now instead of understanding our pasts. I understand the stigma placed on mental health, but also aim to work at your speed to make this a comfortable experience. During this therapeutic journey, you are making a choice to begin your true healing process with a dedicated guide. My style is person-centered and interactive, which aims to allow your authentic self to emerge.
(610) 569-0362 View (610) 569-0362
Photo of Yael Taler, Psychologist, PsyD
Yael Taler
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
People often struggle with negative, self-defeating thoughts - often ones that they know are not completely true, yet nevertheless feel true. Many of my clients come to me because they want to make changes in their life - at work, school, or with family - but they feel trapped because of these negative thoughts. These thoughts can lead to excessive guilt, hopelessness, and indecision. As a therapist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, I am committed to working together with you in helping you get unstuck.
People often struggle with negative, self-defeating thoughts - often ones that they know are not completely true, yet nevertheless feel true. Many of my clients come to me because they want to make changes in their life - at work, school, or with family - but they feel trapped because of these negative thoughts. These thoughts can lead to excessive guilt, hopelessness, and indecision. As a therapist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, I am committed to working together with you in helping you get unstuck.
(267) 310-1246 View (267) 310-1246
Photo of Marisela Hurtado, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marisela Hurtado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am so glad you're here and ready to take the next step towards your wellness! My name is Marisela, but you can call me Mari. I am a passionate, dancing, coffee loving, Latina, who is also a spooky enthusiast. I love what I do, and I love working with people. I truly believe in each person and their own abilities and capabilities. My job as your therapist is to listen without judgment, and provide a sounding board to support you in uncovering what capabilities and knowledge you already have. I believe in meeting people where they are at, and building a deep therapeutic relationship.
I am so glad you're here and ready to take the next step towards your wellness! My name is Marisela, but you can call me Mari. I am a passionate, dancing, coffee loving, Latina, who is also a spooky enthusiast. I love what I do, and I love working with people. I truly believe in each person and their own abilities and capabilities. My job as your therapist is to listen without judgment, and provide a sounding board to support you in uncovering what capabilities and knowledge you already have. I believe in meeting people where they are at, and building a deep therapeutic relationship.
(215) 392-5396 View (215) 392-5396
Photo of Dr. Brady Kilgore Kilgore McDaniels - Family Matters InFocus LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Family Matters InFocus LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
(267) 318-4379 View (267) 318-4379
Photo of Jessie Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Jessie Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you have a specific issue you want to address, or just know you want something different out of life, I'd love to work with you to explore yourself and begin to make changes. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and heal, and I approach therapy as a place to collaborate on bringing out these fundamental abilities in you. Because relationships are deeply meaningful within each person’s life, I specialize in exploring the impact of your relationships — including your relationship yourself — in your life, to help you better understand and care for yourself and those you love.
Whether you have a specific issue you want to address, or just know you want something different out of life, I'd love to work with you to explore yourself and begin to make changes. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and heal, and I approach therapy as a place to collaborate on bringing out these fundamental abilities in you. Because relationships are deeply meaningful within each person’s life, I specialize in exploring the impact of your relationships — including your relationship yourself — in your life, to help you better understand and care for yourself and those you love.
(267) 497-3027 View (267) 497-3027
Photo of Catherine McIntyre Welsh - GKSW / Crystal Group Associates, LLP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
GKSW / Crystal Group Associates, LLP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Philadelphia, PA 19103
GKSW has been providing comprehensive mental health services since 1978. Our interdisciplinary staff is fully accredited and licensed in their specific professions. We are committed to assisting people make the kinds of changes that enable them to live personally fulfilling and meaningful lives. We respect the dignity and diversity of all people with whom we have the privilege of working and strive to enable our clients to find unique paths in their journeys through life.
GKSW has been providing comprehensive mental health services since 1978. Our interdisciplinary staff is fully accredited and licensed in their specific professions. We are committed to assisting people make the kinds of changes that enable them to live personally fulfilling and meaningful lives. We respect the dignity and diversity of all people with whom we have the privilege of working and strive to enable our clients to find unique paths in their journeys through life.
(215) 233-3994 View (215) 233-3994
Photo of Dr. Gabe Longhi, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Gabe Longhi
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm a psychologist best suited to help those who've tried other strategies without the hoped for relief, or those who have been feeling hopeless or stuck about truly creating change in their lives. I've also been helpful to highly motivated and insightful clients seeking short-term assistance to understand a specific problem or to seek solutions they can enact themselves. Trauma work can result in a temporary increase in symptoms as you heal and release the past. The path to true healing is not easy and clients with realistic expectations about the intensive nature of trauma work or psychotherapy will benefit the most.
Hello, I'm a psychologist best suited to help those who've tried other strategies without the hoped for relief, or those who have been feeling hopeless or stuck about truly creating change in their lives. I've also been helpful to highly motivated and insightful clients seeking short-term assistance to understand a specific problem or to seek solutions they can enact themselves. Trauma work can result in a temporary increase in symptoms as you heal and release the past. The path to true healing is not easy and clients with realistic expectations about the intensive nature of trauma work or psychotherapy will benefit the most.
(717) 647-5256 View (717) 647-5256
Photo of Addie Mooney, Counselor, MEd, LAPC
Addie Mooney
Counselor, MEd, LAPC
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19109
As a therapist, my my main goal is to create a space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I specialize in therapy for survivors of relational trauma (including childhood abuse, intimate partner violence and sexual assault) who would like to focus on healing the self and strengthening relationships. From years of working in survivor services throughout PA I have a strong understanding of CPTSD, narcissistic abuse and codependency. I am passionate about cycle breaking and strive to help clients reacquaint themselves with pleasure in a way feels safe, joyful and empowering.
As a therapist, my my main goal is to create a space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I specialize in therapy for survivors of relational trauma (including childhood abuse, intimate partner violence and sexual assault) who would like to focus on healing the self and strengthening relationships. From years of working in survivor services throughout PA I have a strong understanding of CPTSD, narcissistic abuse and codependency. I am passionate about cycle breaking and strive to help clients reacquaint themselves with pleasure in a way feels safe, joyful and empowering.
(610) 686-8690 View (610) 686-8690
Photo of Valerie Saxton, Psychologist, PsyD
Valerie Saxton
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I believe that every individual has the wisdom to know how to heal themselves and the courage to face life's challenges and grow from them. It is my job, as a therapist, to help you connect with this innate wisdom and courage. In therapy, I work to create a space where you can feel safe and understood enough to be challenged. Within this space, we will explore your current difficulties and approach them in ways that fit you and build upon your unique strengths and personality. We will address both current symptoms for short-term relief, as well as the source of these issues, for lasting, long-term change.
I believe that every individual has the wisdom to know how to heal themselves and the courage to face life's challenges and grow from them. It is my job, as a therapist, to help you connect with this innate wisdom and courage. In therapy, I work to create a space where you can feel safe and understood enough to be challenged. Within this space, we will explore your current difficulties and approach them in ways that fit you and build upon your unique strengths and personality. We will address both current symptoms for short-term relief, as well as the source of these issues, for lasting, long-term change.
(215) 607-8560 View (215) 607-8560
Photo of Izzy Zissman, Associate Professional Counselor, APC
Izzy Zissman
Associate Professional Counselor, APC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work mostly with individuals in their 20s and 30s who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, navigating interpersonal relationships, and issues around self-esteem and identity crises. Identifying the feelings and experiences in the current moment can be difficult to name, but I am here to help you work through those emotions and discover what they truly mean for you.
I work mostly with individuals in their 20s and 30s who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, navigating interpersonal relationships, and issues around self-esteem and identity crises. Identifying the feelings and experiences in the current moment can be difficult to name, but I am here to help you work through those emotions and discover what they truly mean for you.
(267) 550-7628 View (267) 550-7628
Photo of Jenna Strusowski, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Jenna Strusowski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I take a collaborative, compassionate approach to individual and couples therapy, helping clients move out of stuck patterns, communicate more effectively, and deepen emotional and sexual connection. Whether you’re hoping to fine-tune a fulfilling relationship, rebuild trust after a rupture, recover from an affair, or explore new ways of relating, I offer a supportive space for growth and healing. I provide an open, non-judgmental space to discuss sex and relationships, meeting you with kindness and genuine curiosity.
I take a collaborative, compassionate approach to individual and couples therapy, helping clients move out of stuck patterns, communicate more effectively, and deepen emotional and sexual connection. Whether you’re hoping to fine-tune a fulfilling relationship, rebuild trust after a rupture, recover from an affair, or explore new ways of relating, I offer a supportive space for growth and healing. I provide an open, non-judgmental space to discuss sex and relationships, meeting you with kindness and genuine curiosity.
(215) 596-4167 View (215) 596-4167

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
71% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
62% Coping Skills
62% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
57% Highmark

How Therapists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
19% Male
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Philadelphia?

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.