Therapists in South of South, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Christine Frampus, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, MEd, LPC, RPT, NCC
Christine Frampus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, MEd, LPC, RPT, NCC
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
When you were young, you had a clear idea of your future. You knew exactly the type of mid-century modern home you wanted to live in. You’d have a perfect husband with two well-behaved children. Your job would be rewarding, and you’d have lots of free time to work on yourself. But now, looking around at your life, you don’t have any of that. Somewhere along the way, you lost sight of your goals. Now you’re stuck here. It’s not your fault– there were so many things working against you and obstacles you had to endure. But it's time for a change. You know you’re running out of time to take action, but you don’t know how to start.
When you were young, you had a clear idea of your future. You knew exactly the type of mid-century modern home you wanted to live in. You’d have a perfect husband with two well-behaved children. Your job would be rewarding, and you’d have lots of free time to work on yourself. But now, looking around at your life, you don’t have any of that. Somewhere along the way, you lost sight of your goals. Now you’re stuck here. It’s not your fault– there were so many things working against you and obstacles you had to endure. But it's time for a change. You know you’re running out of time to take action, but you don’t know how to start.
(267) 435-3108 View (267) 435-3108
Photo of Maria Munoz-Grandes, Registered Psychotherapist, MPsych, MSc, MPhi, MEd, MA
Maria Munoz-Grandes
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsych, MSc, MPhi, MEd, MA
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Clients who will benefit more from working with me are complex, sensitive persons and couples going through some kind of life transition, or some relational or existential crisis, who want to understand themselves better, integrate the many sides of their identity, "own" their experiences, and reflect about their life course and ways of being and relating. Also persons willing to heal from trauma, to build resiliency and unleash post-traumatic growth. I have lived in Europe, Africa and USA, and have developed an expertise in immigration, acculturation, and international and transnational identities and experiences.
Clients who will benefit more from working with me are complex, sensitive persons and couples going through some kind of life transition, or some relational or existential crisis, who want to understand themselves better, integrate the many sides of their identity, "own" their experiences, and reflect about their life course and ways of being and relating. Also persons willing to heal from trauma, to build resiliency and unleash post-traumatic growth. I have lived in Europe, Africa and USA, and have developed an expertise in immigration, acculturation, and international and transnational identities and experiences.
(267) 497-3047 View (267) 497-3047
Photo of Samantha Appel, Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Samantha Appel
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I believe that everyone deserves a time and a place to work on their mental health, heal from painful experiences, and move towards finding more meaning in their lives and relationships. I also know that given the current pandemic, we're all struggling more than usual! I offer a warm and judgment-free zone to work on a range of issues. I believe psychotherapy works best when it is tailored to each person as a unique individual. I utilize an integrative model, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), relational, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and humanistic approaches.
I believe that everyone deserves a time and a place to work on their mental health, heal from painful experiences, and move towards finding more meaning in their lives and relationships. I also know that given the current pandemic, we're all struggling more than usual! I offer a warm and judgment-free zone to work on a range of issues. I believe psychotherapy works best when it is tailored to each person as a unique individual. I utilize an integrative model, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), relational, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and humanistic approaches.
(267) 394-9291 View (267) 394-9291
Photo of Mattea LeWitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mattea LeWitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, and burned out? Would you like to manage your stress more effectively? Maybe you're struggling to keep up with work and family responsibilities, maybe your emotions feel out of control, or maybe you want to have better relationships. Many people have great ideas about how to solve their own problems, but then become frustrated when these strategies aren't working consistently.
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, and burned out? Would you like to manage your stress more effectively? Maybe you're struggling to keep up with work and family responsibilities, maybe your emotions feel out of control, or maybe you want to have better relationships. Many people have great ideas about how to solve their own problems, but then become frustrated when these strategies aren't working consistently.
(267) 609-8968 View (267) 609-8968
Photo of Gerlinde Harb, Psychologist, PhD
Gerlinde Harb
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe therapy is most helpful in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect. In a safe and collaborative environment, we can work together toward your personal goals. I am passionate about helping my clients cope with life stressors, to get relief from painful emotional symptoms, and to feel understood. Beginning therapy is not easy. My approach to therapy begins with helping clients to define their goals and to empower them to move toward the most fulfilling life possible.
I believe therapy is most helpful in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect. In a safe and collaborative environment, we can work together toward your personal goals. I am passionate about helping my clients cope with life stressors, to get relief from painful emotional symptoms, and to feel understood. Beginning therapy is not easy. My approach to therapy begins with helping clients to define their goals and to empower them to move toward the most fulfilling life possible.
(215) 584-4076 View (215) 584-4076
Photo of Eric B Levin, Psychologist, PhD
Eric B Levin
Psychologist, PhD
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I believe it is the relationship in therapy that is truly healing. Honesty, compassion and sometimes a sense of humor can be powerful medicine. I enjoy working with people who are truly ready to make some changes in their life, even if they're terrified to do so.
I believe it is the relationship in therapy that is truly healing. Honesty, compassion and sometimes a sense of humor can be powerful medicine. I enjoy working with people who are truly ready to make some changes in their life, even if they're terrified to do so.
(267) 656-7535 View (267) 656-7535
Photo of Francesca Papazis, Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd
Francesca Papazis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, attachment healing, and past/childhood trauma, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging you to work toward your individual goals and embrace your intuitive sense of self.
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, attachment healing, and past/childhood trauma, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging you to work toward your individual goals and embrace your intuitive sense of self.
(267) 651-0660 View (267) 651-0660
Photo of Jennifer Blaine
Jennifer Blaine
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I have been a transformational coach since 1997. I give you the tools to truly be comfortable with yourself, spark your aliveness and creativity and lead a dazzling life. If you're looking for an intuitive approach, and someone that zones in on the key pieces you need, I'd love for us to talk. I illuminate what is most needed, create bursts of aliveness, and guide you to confidently create what you most want in your life.
I have been a transformational coach since 1997. I give you the tools to truly be comfortable with yourself, spark your aliveness and creativity and lead a dazzling life. If you're looking for an intuitive approach, and someone that zones in on the key pieces you need, I'd love for us to talk. I illuminate what is most needed, create bursts of aliveness, and guide you to confidently create what you most want in your life.
(215) 688-5725 View (215) 688-5725
Photo of Elyse Schein, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Elyse Schein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Be brave enough to be your authentic self! I have a genuine, Person-Centered, Existential approach, and believe that everyone is a unique individual, to be valued. It's my honor to walk with you on your journey of self-discovery. I believe in the connection between the mind and the body, and will work with you on finding ways to grow, and expand awareness, so you can identify patterns that may not be working for you. I will support you as you expand your perspective in a safe, supportive, space. With warmth and humor, I will help you work on accepting yourself for who you are, and creating the life you want.
Be brave enough to be your authentic self! I have a genuine, Person-Centered, Existential approach, and believe that everyone is a unique individual, to be valued. It's my honor to walk with you on your journey of self-discovery. I believe in the connection between the mind and the body, and will work with you on finding ways to grow, and expand awareness, so you can identify patterns that may not be working for you. I will support you as you expand your perspective in a safe, supportive, space. With warmth and humor, I will help you work on accepting yourself for who you are, and creating the life you want.
(512) 865-5143 View (512) 865-5143
Photo of Aviva Rosenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aviva Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
It is my honor to collaborate with clients as they access their strengths and resilience to make and maintain meaningful change. I work to create a warm, non-judgment, and trauma-informed therapy space, so we can develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your personal values and needs. We then partner together as we explore the many facets and layers of you, your family, and your environment in order to help you learn more about yourself, understand your struggles, and make concrete changes in your life. I believe in a person’s ongoing ability to grow and change and it is my pleasure to partner with you on that journey.
It is my honor to collaborate with clients as they access their strengths and resilience to make and maintain meaningful change. I work to create a warm, non-judgment, and trauma-informed therapy space, so we can develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your personal values and needs. We then partner together as we explore the many facets and layers of you, your family, and your environment in order to help you learn more about yourself, understand your struggles, and make concrete changes in your life. I believe in a person’s ongoing ability to grow and change and it is my pleasure to partner with you on that journey.
(610) 510-4494 View (610) 510-4494
Photo of Britt DeLine, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Britt DeLine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I hope you are here because you are ready to make yourself a priority. This might be the first thing you’ve done for yourself in a long time. Congratulations. I am excited to start this work together, whether that is to learn to better take care of yourself and your happiness; work through lows, grief, stressors or anxiousness; or process a relationship or career you are struggling with. Whatever brings you here, I offer you a nonjudgmental listening ear, support, feedback and help to achieve your goals. Therapy takes time, you have to be willing to put in some work inside and outside of our time together, but know you are worth it!
I hope you are here because you are ready to make yourself a priority. This might be the first thing you’ve done for yourself in a long time. Congratulations. I am excited to start this work together, whether that is to learn to better take care of yourself and your happiness; work through lows, grief, stressors or anxiousness; or process a relationship or career you are struggling with. Whatever brings you here, I offer you a nonjudgmental listening ear, support, feedback and help to achieve your goals. Therapy takes time, you have to be willing to put in some work inside and outside of our time together, but know you are worth it!
(267) 214-4286 View (267) 214-4286
Photo of Sierra-Katherine Brooks, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sierra-Katherine Brooks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
As an African-American female therapist, I’m passionate about creating a supportive, affirming space where adults of all backgrounds—individuals, couples, and families—can feel seen, heard, and empowered. Whether you're navigating challenges or seeking personal growth, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way. I’m proud to be affiliated with PsychPhilly, where we specialize in collaborative, personalized treatment for individuals seeking meaningful support on their mental health journey.
As an African-American female therapist, I’m passionate about creating a supportive, affirming space where adults of all backgrounds—individuals, couples, and families—can feel seen, heard, and empowered. Whether you're navigating challenges or seeking personal growth, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way. I’m proud to be affiliated with PsychPhilly, where we specialize in collaborative, personalized treatment for individuals seeking meaningful support on their mental health journey.
(215) 593-2425 View (215) 593-2425
Deanna Purnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MEd
Online Only
I work with clients ages 16 and up, using evidence-based therapy tools to support healing through self-insight and the development of effective coping skills. Together, we’ll navigate life’s past and present challenges to foster resilience, growth, and lasting change. We all struggle in ways that are deeply personal and unique to our own experiences. That’s why the path to healing should be just as individualized—honoring your story, your strengths, and your journey every step of the way.
I work with clients ages 16 and up, using evidence-based therapy tools to support healing through self-insight and the development of effective coping skills. Together, we’ll navigate life’s past and present challenges to foster resilience, growth, and lasting change. We all struggle in ways that are deeply personal and unique to our own experiences. That’s why the path to healing should be just as individualized—honoring your story, your strengths, and your journey every step of the way.
(215) 703-9676 View (215) 703-9676
Photo of Amelia K Gaffney - Amelia Lamb Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amelia Lamb Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I am taking new clients for teletherapy in NY, PA, and NJ as well as in-environment services for the Philadelphia area. My work specializes in individuals and couples that are looking to create a plan to better your relationships, work dynamics, and overall life satisfaction. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life transition or are looking for more support for an ongoing issue, my practice involves utilizing your strengths and exploring the environmental and interpersonal issues that are not aligning with your goals and values. For more information, visit AmeliaLambTherapy.com
I am taking new clients for teletherapy in NY, PA, and NJ as well as in-environment services for the Philadelphia area. My work specializes in individuals and couples that are looking to create a plan to better your relationships, work dynamics, and overall life satisfaction. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life transition or are looking for more support for an ongoing issue, my practice involves utilizing your strengths and exploring the environmental and interpersonal issues that are not aligning with your goals and values. For more information, visit AmeliaLambTherapy.com
(267) 489-2173 View (267) 489-2173
Photo of Noel Shipp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Noel Shipp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Online Only
Therapy can mean many things, depending on what you're seeking. Whether you're navigating a life transition, managing acute symptoms, or simply looking for extra support, therapy offers a path to deeper self-understanding. By exploring your relationships and reflecting on past experiences, you can gain meaningful insight into how to move toward a more fulfilling future.
Therapy can mean many things, depending on what you're seeking. Whether you're navigating a life transition, managing acute symptoms, or simply looking for extra support, therapy offers a path to deeper self-understanding. By exploring your relationships and reflecting on past experiences, you can gain meaningful insight into how to move toward a more fulfilling future.
(215) 330-2320 View (215) 330-2320
Photo of Tracey Frank Ellenbogen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Tracey Frank Ellenbogen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I treat clients with a "team" approach. Together, we help you to feel happier, reduce your suffering, understand patterns that get you "stuck" in life and help with making life feel more balanced. I believe that with mindfulness, learning how to be more kind to yourself, and being open to new perspectives, you have the power to change anything within you in your present day life, including unwholesome habits and increasing self esteem. I have formal training and personal experience in mindfulness meditation and other grounding tools to help with reducing anxiety and stress and increasing joy and contentment in your life.
I treat clients with a "team" approach. Together, we help you to feel happier, reduce your suffering, understand patterns that get you "stuck" in life and help with making life feel more balanced. I believe that with mindfulness, learning how to be more kind to yourself, and being open to new perspectives, you have the power to change anything within you in your present day life, including unwholesome habits and increasing self esteem. I have formal training and personal experience in mindfulness meditation and other grounding tools to help with reducing anxiety and stress and increasing joy and contentment in your life.
(610) 915-8985 View (610) 915-8985
Photo of Hadley Roberts-Donnelly, Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd, MSEd
Hadley Roberts-Donnelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd, MSEd
3 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I work with individuals and couples who want to explore the origins of their distress and then work toward meaningful change. My specialties include navigating relational issues, the effects of trauma, sexuality/identity exploration, and anxiety & mood difficulties. I also work with children and adolescents, incorporating interventions from play and art therapy. Humans are built for connection, and when that connection is safe and supportive, we can begin to attend to the most vulnerable parts of our stories. I believe that - together - we have the ability to move through and forward from what has hurt us.
I work with individuals and couples who want to explore the origins of their distress and then work toward meaningful change. My specialties include navigating relational issues, the effects of trauma, sexuality/identity exploration, and anxiety & mood difficulties. I also work with children and adolescents, incorporating interventions from play and art therapy. Humans are built for connection, and when that connection is safe and supportive, we can begin to attend to the most vulnerable parts of our stories. I believe that - together - we have the ability to move through and forward from what has hurt us.
(484) 759-9245 View (484) 759-9245
Photo of Diane A Adler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diane A Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Do you struggle with shame, depression, anxiety and self reproach about your compulsive eating? Are you also struggling with general anxiety and depression that is keeping you lonely and isolated even if you are in a relationship? In an empathic, collaborative manner I create a safe environment with a high level of skill, patience and creativity and sense of humor to help you make positive meaningful changes. My strong psychodynamic background is combined with other modalities in an integrated approach. Good therapy should offer knowledge and insight and provide practical tools to help you grow and strategies for coping.
Do you struggle with shame, depression, anxiety and self reproach about your compulsive eating? Are you also struggling with general anxiety and depression that is keeping you lonely and isolated even if you are in a relationship? In an empathic, collaborative manner I create a safe environment with a high level of skill, patience and creativity and sense of humor to help you make positive meaningful changes. My strong psychodynamic background is combined with other modalities in an integrated approach. Good therapy should offer knowledge and insight and provide practical tools to help you grow and strategies for coping.
(267) 376-9625 View (267) 376-9625
Photo of Rachael Jelnicky, Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, RYT200
Rachael Jelnicky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, RYT200
1 Endorsed
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I'm Rachael, a therapist in Philly working with couples and individuals. You might be seeking therapy at a time when you feel stuck, confused, frustrated or overwhelmed. My goal is to help you broaden your view of yourself, your relationships and your struggles in order to navigate through them differently. I specialize in working with anxiety, self esteem, ADHD, panic and working through difficult family relationships. I'm interested in getting curious about the parts of yourself that feel most unlovable.
I'm Rachael, a therapist in Philly working with couples and individuals. You might be seeking therapy at a time when you feel stuck, confused, frustrated or overwhelmed. My goal is to help you broaden your view of yourself, your relationships and your struggles in order to navigate through them differently. I specialize in working with anxiety, self esteem, ADHD, panic and working through difficult family relationships. I'm interested in getting curious about the parts of yourself that feel most unlovable.
(267) 682-8169 View (267) 682-8169
Photo of Justine Fox - Fox Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Fox Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
South of South, Philadelphia, PA 19146
I hope together we can create a safe space to explore life’s challenges, successes and everything in between. I recognize coming to therapy can be difficult, so I strive to provide a comfortable environment filled with empathy and support. I specialize in working collaboratively with young adults and adults experiencing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, body image, eating disorders, unhealthy relationships and mood disorders.
I hope together we can create a safe space to explore life’s challenges, successes and everything in between. I recognize coming to therapy can be difficult, so I strive to provide a comfortable environment filled with empathy and support. I specialize in working collaboratively with young adults and adults experiencing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, body image, eating disorders, unhealthy relationships and mood disorders.
(856) 644-1260 View (856) 644-1260
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See more therapy options for South of South, Philadelphia

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in South of South, Philadelphia, PA

200+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in South of South, Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions
65% Relationship Issues
63% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
68% Independence Blue Cross

How Therapists in South of South, Philadelphia, PA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in South of South, 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.