Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

View neighborhoods in Brooklyn
Photo of Safia Albaiti, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Safia Albaiti
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
I believe in the self determination and depth of your interiority and therapeutic journey. I believe much of what we experience as symptoms, interpersonal difficulties, role conflicts and stuckness is also a product of the many social contracts and norms that shape how we were raised in society, what we were told was the way to a good life, and how that may no longer exist or is experienced as broken, in sometimes traumatic or unnameable ways. The clinical space can offer a way to examine and explore your singularly experienced patterns more deeply in order to work toward healing and self actualization.
I believe in the self determination and depth of your interiority and therapeutic journey. I believe much of what we experience as symptoms, interpersonal difficulties, role conflicts and stuckness is also a product of the many social contracts and norms that shape how we were raised in society, what we were told was the way to a good life, and how that may no longer exist or is experienced as broken, in sometimes traumatic or unnameable ways. The clinical space can offer a way to examine and explore your singularly experienced patterns more deeply in order to work toward healing and self actualization.
(646) 798-4902 View (646) 798-4902
Photo of Kiyonda Hester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Kiyonda Hester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
Have unfortunate events impacted your early years? Are you struggling with the loss of a parent or dealing with the stress of life transitions? Perhaps you’re having a hard time in school or with social interactions. Navigating any of these challenges by yourself is no easy task. I’m here to provide a safe space for you to open up and process whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will find creative, fun and insightful ways to resolve your distress.
Have unfortunate events impacted your early years? Are you struggling with the loss of a parent or dealing with the stress of life transitions? Perhaps you’re having a hard time in school or with social interactions. Navigating any of these challenges by yourself is no easy task. I’m here to provide a safe space for you to open up and process whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will find creative, fun and insightful ways to resolve your distress.
(929) 577-3247 View (929) 577-3247
Photo of David Tulman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
David Tulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
I’m an adult, adolescent, and child therapist who fosters a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment attuned towards growth and wellbeing. I offer support for individuals dealing with anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues and to people encountering professional or family challenges. Our work together will allow you to develop the tools you need to maximize your resilience and more capably and confidently manage life's challenges. I also offer child centered play therapy and a CBT and DBT integrated approach in my work with children.
I’m an adult, adolescent, and child therapist who fosters a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment attuned towards growth and wellbeing. I offer support for individuals dealing with anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues and to people encountering professional or family challenges. Our work together will allow you to develop the tools you need to maximize your resilience and more capably and confidently manage life's challenges. I also offer child centered play therapy and a CBT and DBT integrated approach in my work with children.
(929) 531-6909 View (929) 531-6909
Photo of Patricia Cremins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Patricia Cremins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS, Ed
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a psychotherapist with fifteen years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families. Some people come to therapy for help with depression or anxiety, or because they are facing obstacles in their careers or relationships. Others wish to help their children with behavioral, emotional or academic issues. Within a warm and supportive environment, I will help clarify your goals and work towards them. We will identify negative patterns, and ways to cope. I am trained to assist those who feel overwhelmed because of past events and current stresses.
I am a psychotherapist with fifteen years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families. Some people come to therapy for help with depression or anxiety, or because they are facing obstacles in their careers or relationships. Others wish to help their children with behavioral, emotional or academic issues. Within a warm and supportive environment, I will help clarify your goals and work towards them. We will identify negative patterns, and ways to cope. I am trained to assist those who feel overwhelmed because of past events and current stresses.
(646) 832-2525 View (646) 832-2525
Photo of Hae-Joon Kim, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Hae-Joon Kim
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
I aim to cultivate an open and non-judgmental space that allows you to feel heard, find your own voice, and feel freer. Any issues or concerns that arise in your life are worth exploring and navigating together in order to alleviate suffering and create change. I believe that psychotherapy occurs in a space co-created by therapist and patient, and I emphasize the importance of this relationship in psychotherapy.
I aim to cultivate an open and non-judgmental space that allows you to feel heard, find your own voice, and feel freer. Any issues or concerns that arise in your life are worth exploring and navigating together in order to alleviate suffering and create change. I believe that psychotherapy occurs in a space co-created by therapist and patient, and I emphasize the importance of this relationship in psychotherapy.
(646) 933-8974 View (646) 933-8974
Photo of Alexander Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Alexander Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Do you find yourself putting little value in your ideas, making poor decisions, or mistreating others? Are you practicing "bad habits" that you know in your soul needs to end! What about those "medicated thoughts," for example "If I only had..." "When he changes I can..." "I'll get help later when..." Are your kids struggling in school? Has he bullied others or is not performing to his fullest abilities? Now is the time to call and schedule an initial session!
TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Do you find yourself putting little value in your ideas, making poor decisions, or mistreating others? Are you practicing "bad habits" that you know in your soul needs to end! What about those "medicated thoughts," for example "If I only had..." "When he changes I can..." "I'll get help later when..." Are your kids struggling in school? Has he bullied others or is not performing to his fullest abilities? Now is the time to call and schedule an initial session!
(718) 395-6392 View (718) 395-6392
Photo of Courtney Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Courtney Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
My approach to therapy emphasizes meeting you where you are. Built on trust and collaboration, we will work towards navigating active hardships and untangling confusing, complex thoughts and behaviors to rekindle a way of being that resonates with you. In therapy, I work to provide an environment for you to learn more about yourself, to better understand the things that trouble you, and to expand your coping capacities. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with diverse developmental stages. My treatment approach is predicated on a person-centered, eclectic approach to meet your needs.
My approach to therapy emphasizes meeting you where you are. Built on trust and collaboration, we will work towards navigating active hardships and untangling confusing, complex thoughts and behaviors to rekindle a way of being that resonates with you. In therapy, I work to provide an environment for you to learn more about yourself, to better understand the things that trouble you, and to expand your coping capacities. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with diverse developmental stages. My treatment approach is predicated on a person-centered, eclectic approach to meet your needs.
(929) 203-9637 View (929) 203-9637
Photo of Semyon Makagon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Semyon Makagon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Thank you for reviewing my profile.  I am a New York State Licensed Psychotherapist and my specialties are working with adults that have anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout.  I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative approach where the client sets the goals and the therapist is a trusted partner to guide, assist, uplift, motivate, and support. In my work, I utilize an integrative approach with elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Mindfulness Interventions.
Thank you for reviewing my profile.  I am a New York State Licensed Psychotherapist and my specialties are working with adults that have anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout.  I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative approach where the client sets the goals and the therapist is a trusted partner to guide, assist, uplift, motivate, and support. In my work, I utilize an integrative approach with elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Mindfulness Interventions.
(347) 830-7675 View (347) 830-7675
Photo of David Herbert, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
David Herbert, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
David Herbert, LCSW-R is a clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral disorders and stress management. I work with adults struggling with a wide array of issues, including issues pertaining to their career, relationships, family, grief, loss, work/life balance, and life transitions. I also work extensively with local university undergraduate and graduate students. I operate from an LGBTQIA+ affirming perspective to provide support for individuals of all identities.
David Herbert, LCSW-R is a clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral disorders and stress management. I work with adults struggling with a wide array of issues, including issues pertaining to their career, relationships, family, grief, loss, work/life balance, and life transitions. I also work extensively with local university undergraduate and graduate students. I operate from an LGBTQIA+ affirming perspective to provide support for individuals of all identities.
(347) 647-2057 View (347) 647-2057
Photo of Hope Springs Psychotherapy - Martin Delacruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Hope Springs Psychotherapy - Martin Delacruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11205
Are you going through life challenges with work, family, relationships, and are feeling lost and confused? My hope is to assist you in achieving a deeper understanding of the effects that your early life experiences and current life challenges may have had on you. What I’ve learned from doing this work is that this can allow you to gain skills that can help you navigate your thoughts and modify your behavioral and emotional responses. This can come from an understanding of your relationship patterns and the possible conflicts they present. Let me help you.
Are you going through life challenges with work, family, relationships, and are feeling lost and confused? My hope is to assist you in achieving a deeper understanding of the effects that your early life experiences and current life challenges may have had on you. What I’ve learned from doing this work is that this can allow you to gain skills that can help you navigate your thoughts and modify your behavioral and emotional responses. This can come from an understanding of your relationship patterns and the possible conflicts they present. Let me help you.
(646) 328-6136 View (646) 328-6136
Photo of Genifer Lancaster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Genifer Lancaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I believe that hurt, disappointment, sadness and grief are a normal part of the human experience. However, we often turn this hurt inward and create even more painful beliefs about ourselves and the world. I create genuine relationships with the people I work with, helping them to address and remove barriers that prevent them from more meaningful, authentic, and purposeful lives. I offer curiosity, new ideas and techniques while helping my clients identify and shift patterns that no longer serve them.
I believe that hurt, disappointment, sadness and grief are a normal part of the human experience. However, we often turn this hurt inward and create even more painful beliefs about ourselves and the world. I create genuine relationships with the people I work with, helping them to address and remove barriers that prevent them from more meaningful, authentic, and purposeful lives. I offer curiosity, new ideas and techniques while helping my clients identify and shift patterns that no longer serve them.
(646) 759-9364 View (646) 759-9364
Photo of Hannah Evans, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Hannah Evans
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Whether you’re looking to tackle unwanted and unhelpful behaviors or striving to work through a traumatic experience - your wellbeing and healing is my number one priority. Clients working with me can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental and encouraging environment to effectively communicate stressors and dive deeper into the root of emotional patterns. I believe in empowering clients to take ownership of their emotions, to speak about challenging life experiences, and identify healthy coping behaviors to lead a positive life.
Whether you’re looking to tackle unwanted and unhelpful behaviors or striving to work through a traumatic experience - your wellbeing and healing is my number one priority. Clients working with me can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental and encouraging environment to effectively communicate stressors and dive deeper into the root of emotional patterns. I believe in empowering clients to take ownership of their emotions, to speak about challenging life experiences, and identify healthy coping behaviors to lead a positive life.
(917) 451-7251 View (917) 451-7251
Photo of Linda Perez-Puelles, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Linda Perez-Puelles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
“The good life is a process, not a state of being.” -Carl Rogers (1961). My aim in therapy is to empower you and to help you discover what “the good life” means to you. We all need support on our journey through life’s ups and downs. Together we can figure out how to manage the good and bad moments through genuine, empathic, and healing therapy work.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being.” -Carl Rogers (1961). My aim in therapy is to empower you and to help you discover what “the good life” means to you. We all need support on our journey through life’s ups and downs. Together we can figure out how to manage the good and bad moments through genuine, empathic, and healing therapy work.
(877) 647-3343 View (877) 647-3343
Photo of Catya Righetti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Catya Righetti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
A Family Therapist with 30 years clinical experience working in different mental health and child welfare settings, I have a particular interest in women's issues, and LGBTQ+ youth. I offer an environment that is sex-positive and inclusive of all identities. As a yoga and meditation practitioner, I incorporate mindfulness in my work. I strongly believe that, given the right support, everybody can reach their ideal goals.
A Family Therapist with 30 years clinical experience working in different mental health and child welfare settings, I have a particular interest in women's issues, and LGBTQ+ youth. I offer an environment that is sex-positive and inclusive of all identities. As a yoga and meditation practitioner, I incorporate mindfulness in my work. I strongly believe that, given the right support, everybody can reach their ideal goals.
View
Photo of Lauren Knapp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Lauren Knapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11248
I work to help individuals communicate their emotional and lived experiences. Together we will work to explore the structures that are behind suffering and make meaning of relationships, interpersonal patterns and self views. I believe that each therapeutic relationship is unique and an opportunity to create a new way of relating to each other and ourselves.
I work to help individuals communicate their emotional and lived experiences. Together we will work to explore the structures that are behind suffering and make meaning of relationships, interpersonal patterns and self views. I believe that each therapeutic relationship is unique and an opportunity to create a new way of relating to each other and ourselves.
(347) 650-3679 View (347) 650-3679
Gerard Shaw
Licensed Psychoanalyst, EdD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
Dr. Gerard Shaw is a licensed psychoanalyst with over thirty years experience in private practice. He has a diverse and extensive clinical background: he holds a doctoral degree in Education with a specialization in sport psychology, is the founder and director of Tutors Ink, a comprehensive tutoring service that offers therapeutic tutoring, and is licensed in psychoanalysis. In his private practice, Dr. Shaw treats adults, couples, college students, and adolescents for a variety of emotional issues.
Dr. Gerard Shaw is a licensed psychoanalyst with over thirty years experience in private practice. He has a diverse and extensive clinical background: he holds a doctoral degree in Education with a specialization in sport psychology, is the founder and director of Tutors Ink, a comprehensive tutoring service that offers therapeutic tutoring, and is licensed in psychoanalysis. In his private practice, Dr. Shaw treats adults, couples, college students, and adolescents for a variety of emotional issues.
(718) 306-6794 View (718) 306-6794
Photo of Joan Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Joan Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Marriage and Relationship Counseling for same sex and heterosexual couples is one of my specialties. As relationships change and evolve it is not uncommon to find ourselves stuck in a place of conflict or distance. We may find ourselves feeling misunderstood, angry, and alone. One of the tools I have found most helpful in working with couples is the Intentional Dialogue. It is the foundation of Imago Relationship Therapy of which I am a trained and certified practitioner. With this tool and other related approaches, I can teach and have couples experience effective communication, which is essential to restoring connection and transforming conflict into growth.
Marriage and Relationship Counseling for same sex and heterosexual couples is one of my specialties. As relationships change and evolve it is not uncommon to find ourselves stuck in a place of conflict or distance. We may find ourselves feeling misunderstood, angry, and alone. One of the tools I have found most helpful in working with couples is the Intentional Dialogue. It is the foundation of Imago Relationship Therapy of which I am a trained and certified practitioner. With this tool and other related approaches, I can teach and have couples experience effective communication, which is essential to restoring connection and transforming conflict into growth.
View
Photo of Joshua Farrar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Joshua Farrar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are recovering from traumatic experiences, and to those who need a supportive and compassionate space to explore their feelings and find meaning in their experiences.
I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are recovering from traumatic experiences, and to those who need a supportive and compassionate space to explore their feelings and find meaning in their experiences.
(347) 252-6068 View (347) 252-6068
Photo of Cherie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Cherie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212  (Online Only)
Life can feel like a cluster of challenging, confusing, and never-ending hurdles. When left to tackle them on your own, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering space to process past difficulties, current stressors, and future anxieties. I aim to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, trust, and respect. My therapeutic style is a collaborative, client-centered and culturally sensitive approach. Together, we will explore obstacles that hinder your ability to reach your fullest potential and work to overcome your personal or professional difficulties.
Life can feel like a cluster of challenging, confusing, and never-ending hurdles. When left to tackle them on your own, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering space to process past difficulties, current stressors, and future anxieties. I aim to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, trust, and respect. My therapeutic style is a collaborative, client-centered and culturally sensitive approach. Together, we will explore obstacles that hinder your ability to reach your fullest potential and work to overcome your personal or professional difficulties.
(718) 684-9813 View (718) 684-9813
Photo of Martin R Pierre, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Martin R Pierre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I have the privilege of accompanying clients as they go through some of the most painful and some of the most joyous times of their lives. I see therapy as a journey that the client and therapist take together with the therapist playing the role of a traveling companion, guide, and interpreter. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults, and families in various clinical settings. The focus of treatment includes improving self-image, changing negative self-talk, and working through trauma. My approach is collaborative, working together to define and achieve therapy goals.
I have the privilege of accompanying clients as they go through some of the most painful and some of the most joyous times of their lives. I see therapy as a journey that the client and therapist take together with the therapist playing the role of a traveling companion, guide, and interpreter. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults, and families in various clinical settings. The focus of treatment includes improving self-image, changing negative self-talk, and working through trauma. My approach is collaborative, working together to define and achieve therapy goals.
(929) 605-6147 View (929) 605-6147

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Brooklyn, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
65% Cigna and Evernorth
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Brooklyn, NY see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Brooklyn?

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.