Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers is dedicated in helping to support older adults during some of life's toughest transitions. As we age, we encounter both expected and unexpected changes which can lead to complicated grief for reasons such as decline in physical health, decreased sense of purpose, loss of loved ones, downsizing stress, and unexpected medical diagnosis/es. These transitions can leave one feeling hopeless and lost. You are not alone, we are here to help you find effective ways to feel better. Please visit our website to learn more about our services, www.cc4seniors.com.
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers is dedicated in helping to support older adults during some of life's toughest transitions. As we age, we encounter both expected and unexpected changes which can lead to complicated grief for reasons such as decline in physical health, decreased sense of purpose, loss of loved ones, downsizing stress, and unexpected medical diagnosis/es. These transitions can leave one feeling hopeless and lost. You are not alone, we are here to help you find effective ways to feel better. Please visit our website to learn more about our services, www.cc4seniors.com.
(380) 201-9885 View (380) 201-9885
Photo of Marcie Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Marcie Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Please email for more information or to schedule. Daytime availability Monday-Thursday. We are in a unique time; daily life might seem more challenging. Life brings moments of joy, unknowns, hurt, and disappointment. Perhaps it’s leading to anxiety, feeling overwhelmed with life and changes, worries, sleep issues, depression, or simply - heavy with life. Maybe it’s led to feelings of sadness or wanting a change. Pursuing therapeutic support can be a difficult, yet brave step. It’s beneficial to talk about your struggles, worries, or life changes, to help you through this season.
Please email for more information or to schedule. Daytime availability Monday-Thursday. We are in a unique time; daily life might seem more challenging. Life brings moments of joy, unknowns, hurt, and disappointment. Perhaps it’s leading to anxiety, feeling overwhelmed with life and changes, worries, sleep issues, depression, or simply - heavy with life. Maybe it’s led to feelings of sadness or wanting a change. Pursuing therapeutic support can be a difficult, yet brave step. It’s beneficial to talk about your struggles, worries, or life changes, to help you through this season.
(614) 682-8895 View (614) 682-8895
Photo of New Heights Counseling Services, Counselor in Westerville, OH
New Heights Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I know when looking for counseling the process can seem daunting. You have to worry about specializations, openings, the time it will take to get to and from the appointment, not to mention the appointment itself. At New Heights we focus on making the process as easy as possible, from helping connect you to the best clinician within the practice to providing the most advanced treatment options we can. You matter and we want to help you achieve not just your mental health goals but making joy a part of your life.
I know when looking for counseling the process can seem daunting. You have to worry about specializations, openings, the time it will take to get to and from the appointment, not to mention the appointment itself. At New Heights we focus on making the process as easy as possible, from helping connect you to the best clinician within the practice to providing the most advanced treatment options we can. You matter and we want to help you achieve not just your mental health goals but making joy a part of your life.
(614) 957-2645 View (614) 957-2645
Photo of Zach Efaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Zach Efaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Your situation and circumstance is unique and I am passionate about collaboratively working with individuals who are struggling and enjoy helping people navigate the challenges of life. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults.
Your situation and circumstance is unique and I am passionate about collaboratively working with individuals who are struggling and enjoy helping people navigate the challenges of life. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults.
(380) 204-9632 x705 View (380) 204-9632 x705
Photo of Jason Stofel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jason Stofel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
(380) 207-0861 View (380) 207-0861
Photo of Ellie Mental Health - Westerville Ohio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westerville, OH
Ellie Mental Health - Westerville Ohio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LISW, IMFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellie Mental Health in Westerville Ohio isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie Mental Health in Westerville Ohio isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(380) 208-0300 View (380) 208-0300
Photo of Queen Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Queen Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
(614) 762-9107 View (614) 762-9107
Photo of Brittany Taylor, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Brittany Taylor
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with specialized experience treating trauma and anxiety disorders. My practice utilizes intentional listening and attunement, curiosity, and empathy, to guide and support my clients to identify beliefs that no longer serve them and help them recover from symptoms of stress, anxiety, difficult life changes/transitions, women’s issues, and trauma. I believe that transformation occurs when the body, mind and heart are working in unison and symbiotically, and it is my mission to use therapy as a tool to help clients achieve that.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with specialized experience treating trauma and anxiety disorders. My practice utilizes intentional listening and attunement, curiosity, and empathy, to guide and support my clients to identify beliefs that no longer serve them and help them recover from symptoms of stress, anxiety, difficult life changes/transitions, women’s issues, and trauma. I believe that transformation occurs when the body, mind and heart are working in unison and symbiotically, and it is my mission to use therapy as a tool to help clients achieve that.
(614) 945-4571 View (614) 945-4571
Photo of Diana Lippencott, Licensed Social Worker in Westerville, OH
Diana Lippencott
Licensed Social Worker, MA, LSW, LICDC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Now Accepting New Clients! My hope for you is that you can experience Grace, Joy, Comfort and Acceptance. I provide a judgement free safe space to explore and discover your inner strengths. My therapy is client driven and I act as the guide coming along side you in your journey. My passion is supporting teens, adults and older adults towards growth and a path to wellness.
Now Accepting New Clients! My hope for you is that you can experience Grace, Joy, Comfort and Acceptance. I provide a judgement free safe space to explore and discover your inner strengths. My therapy is client driven and I act as the guide coming along side you in your journey. My passion is supporting teens, adults and older adults towards growth and a path to wellness.
(614) 762-9656 View (614) 762-9656
Photo of Mary Finley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mary Finley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
(380) 666-6447 View (380) 666-6447
Photo of Ellen Papadeas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Ellen Papadeas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
(380) 333-6794 View (380) 333-6794
Photo of Angela T. Horton, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Angela T. Horton
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, CDCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Waitlist for new clients
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
(614) 389-9452 View (614) 389-9452
Photo of Sophie Hans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(380) 201-9945 View (380) 201-9945
Photo of Lara K Palay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Lara K Palay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
(614) 389-9146 View (614) 389-9146
Photo of Abby Zou, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Abby Zou
Licensed Professional Counselor, BE, MDes, MCS, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I enter counseling because I have grown up with some trauma and walked through healing myself. Also, I have been serving college students at a nonprofit organization for 10 years, some of them are struggling mental health issues. I understand how life can be hard, overwhelming, and out of control sometimes. But never give up, there is always hope! If you are in difficult situations, I am compassionate and passionate for you to find a safe place to rest, be listened, get healed, find your purpose, and live a thriving life.
I enter counseling because I have grown up with some trauma and walked through healing myself. Also, I have been serving college students at a nonprofit organization for 10 years, some of them are struggling mental health issues. I understand how life can be hard, overwhelming, and out of control sometimes. But never give up, there is always hope! If you are in difficult situations, I am compassionate and passionate for you to find a safe place to rest, be listened, get healed, find your purpose, and live a thriving life.
(380) 333-4500 x718 View (380) 333-4500 x718
Photo of Parker L. Huston, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Parker L. Huston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have been a pediatric psychologist for 10+ years, working with child and adolescent patients (age 2-18) who have behavioral and/or physical health concerns. These problems often overlap and can reduce quality of life. I’ve helped children with a wide variety of presenting concerns, such as anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, behavior problems, ADHD, sleep problems, chronic pain, feeding disorders, and functional abdominal pain. I enjoy working with children of all ages and their families who need support in learning how to manage their emotions and better cope with life's stressors. I'm licensed in both Ohio and Michigan.
I have been a pediatric psychologist for 10+ years, working with child and adolescent patients (age 2-18) who have behavioral and/or physical health concerns. These problems often overlap and can reduce quality of life. I’ve helped children with a wide variety of presenting concerns, such as anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, behavior problems, ADHD, sleep problems, chronic pain, feeding disorders, and functional abdominal pain. I enjoy working with children of all ages and their families who need support in learning how to manage their emotions and better cope with life's stressors. I'm licensed in both Ohio and Michigan.
(614) 665-5898 View (614) 665-5898
Photo of Scott Bone, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Scott Bone
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC, CDCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I earned a master's degree in clinical counseling from Northwestern University and pursued counseling because my life experience put me in a unique position to help people overcome difficult circumstances in their lives. Since childhood, I've endured ceaseless adversity that's made it essential to have a safe place to explore my past, present and future. The gift of counseling was the beginning of my healing journey and the first time, in a long time, I'd felt hopeful. After over a decade in corporate America, it became clear that my mission was to provide those who are struggling access to the same opportunity for personal growth.
I earned a master's degree in clinical counseling from Northwestern University and pursued counseling because my life experience put me in a unique position to help people overcome difficult circumstances in their lives. Since childhood, I've endured ceaseless adversity that's made it essential to have a safe place to explore my past, present and future. The gift of counseling was the beginning of my healing journey and the first time, in a long time, I'd felt hopeful. After over a decade in corporate America, it became clear that my mission was to provide those who are struggling access to the same opportunity for personal growth.
(614) 426-0160 x716 View (614) 426-0160 x716
Photo of Dana Moody, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westerville, OH
Dana Moody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Our mental/emotional health is often overlooked despite being central to our well-being. Sometimes we can feel suffocated by the pain of our life experiences. Counseling offers hope and a pathway for healing so that the brokenness in our past doesn't negatively affect our present and future. Decide to invest in yourself and improve your enjoyment of life regardless of your past or current circumstances. Getting the help you need is something you'll never regret.
Our mental/emotional health is often overlooked despite being central to our well-being. Sometimes we can feel suffocated by the pain of our life experiences. Counseling offers hope and a pathway for healing so that the brokenness in our past doesn't negatively affect our present and future. Decide to invest in yourself and improve your enjoyment of life regardless of your past or current circumstances. Getting the help you need is something you'll never regret.
(614) 918-4364 View (614) 918-4364
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(380) 201-9742 View (380) 201-9742
Photo of Anna Balzano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Anna Balzano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Life throws many twists and turns in our direction and sometimes we may need a helping hand to navigate us through it. No one should have to face difficult times on their own, and we should have a safe place to share them. My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help you process through these decisions in order to holistically grow as a person. Through counseling, I will utilize an eclectic approach by incorporating ACT, CBT, DBT, and person-centered interventions. I work with various populations with the mindset of valuing cultural diversity and acceptance of others.
Life throws many twists and turns in our direction and sometimes we may need a helping hand to navigate us through it. No one should have to face difficult times on their own, and we should have a safe place to share them. My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help you process through these decisions in order to holistically grow as a person. Through counseling, I will utilize an eclectic approach by incorporating ACT, CBT, DBT, and person-centered interventions. I work with various populations with the mindset of valuing cultural diversity and acceptance of others.
(740) 814-5354 View (740) 814-5354

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
75% Optum
70% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.