Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033
Photo of Stacey Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Stacey Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(614) 389-9387 View (614) 389-9387
Photo of Barbara Turman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westerville, OH
Barbara Turman
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LICDC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
DO You Feel Like You Haven't Been Heard! I utilize a solution-focused, and client-centered approach, which includes identifying relationships that may be directly or indirectly impacting your ability to function at your highest level. I believe your relationship with yourself; impacts how you view and interact with the world and those around you. First, we will identify the primary stressors causing you dis-ease, then create a treatment plan that allows you to be the person you desire, and address the barriers impacting you. I treat couples, blended families, relational conflicts, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, etc.
DO You Feel Like You Haven't Been Heard! I utilize a solution-focused, and client-centered approach, which includes identifying relationships that may be directly or indirectly impacting your ability to function at your highest level. I believe your relationship with yourself; impacts how you view and interact with the world and those around you. First, we will identify the primary stressors causing you dis-ease, then create a treatment plan that allows you to be the person you desire, and address the barriers impacting you. I treat couples, blended families, relational conflicts, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, etc.
(614) 721-9221 View (614) 721-9221
Photo of Nichole Redic, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Nichole Redic
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, PCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
(614) 802-5717 View (614) 802-5717
Photo of Edward Luersman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Edward Luersman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Grief, infertility, and miscarriage leave us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and trapped. You may be fed up with a lack of recognition or helpful support from loved ones and the Church, feeling uncertain and scared about the future, or feeling guilty or worthless. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to have someone who understands you and can accompany you. You’re ready to learn how to better cope with your loss or infertility. Most of all, you’re ready to do what it takes to experience less pain and isolation and more peace and hope.
Grief, infertility, and miscarriage leave us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and trapped. You may be fed up with a lack of recognition or helpful support from loved ones and the Church, feeling uncertain and scared about the future, or feeling guilty or worthless. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to have someone who understands you and can accompany you. You’re ready to learn how to better cope with your loss or infertility. Most of all, you’re ready to do what it takes to experience less pain and isolation and more peace and hope.
(614) 957-3061 View (614) 957-3061
Photo of After the Storm Counseling LLC in Westerville, OH
After the Storm Counseling LLC
EdD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
We are a group practice with master level clinicians. We work with a diverse population of people. No matter what you are facing in life, we are here to support you during this difficult time. We meet people where they are and help them to achieve their goals and improve their lives. We recognize the difficulty in deciding if it is time to see a specialist and often use humor when appropriate to make you feel comfortable. We appreciate the unique strengths and experiences of each individual person who enters our doors and utilize those characteristics to help identify new coping skills or those that have worked in past situations.
We are a group practice with master level clinicians. We work with a diverse population of people. No matter what you are facing in life, we are here to support you during this difficult time. We meet people where they are and help them to achieve their goals and improve their lives. We recognize the difficulty in deciding if it is time to see a specialist and often use humor when appropriate to make you feel comfortable. We appreciate the unique strengths and experiences of each individual person who enters our doors and utilize those characteristics to help identify new coping skills or those that have worked in past situations.
(614) 783-6010 View (614) 783-6010
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 passion is 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 passion is 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 Doug Bennett, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Doug Bennett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
(614) 682-2124 View (614) 682-2124
Photo of De’Aja Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
(614) 683-4803 View (614) 683-4803
Photo of Alex Childs, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Alex Childs
Counselor, LPCC, MSE
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Seeking out a therapist is a powerful act of self-love and compassion. It’s a commitment to yourself that you're worthy of help and you're ready for change. I work with individuals and couples, from a warm approach of collaboratively changing your life for the better. I specialize in treating areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-image, sexuality, gender, identity, and relationships.
Seeking out a therapist is a powerful act of self-love and compassion. It’s a commitment to yourself that you're worthy of help and you're ready for change. I work with individuals and couples, from a warm approach of collaboratively changing your life for the better. I specialize in treating areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-image, sexuality, gender, identity, and relationships.
(380) 210-5114 View (380) 210-5114
Photo of Cynthia Cook-Wion, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Cynthia Cook-Wion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Hello! I have been in the world of behavioral health as a clinician for 32 years. I have an MSW from Indiana Wesleyan University and am a licensed social worker and an independently licensed chemical dependency counselor.
Hello! I have been in the world of behavioral health as a clinician for 32 years. I have an MSW from Indiana Wesleyan University and am a licensed social worker and an independently licensed chemical dependency counselor.
(380) 205-2524 View (380) 205-2524
Photo of Grace Crawley, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Grace Crawley
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
(380) 207-0521 View (380) 207-0521
Photo of Dr. Bowen Marshall, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43086  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
(380) 221-7373 View (380) 221-7373
Photo of Bread of Life Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Bread of Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Brooke, Are you having a hard time getting through your day? Do you find yourself struggling to do the things you love doing or even engage with friends? I'm here to help you get back on track one step at a time. I specialize in using mindfulness and CBT to help you manage symptoms and gain motivation and confidence.
Hi, I'm Brooke, Are you having a hard time getting through your day? Do you find yourself struggling to do the things you love doing or even engage with friends? I'm here to help you get back on track one step at a time. I specialize in using mindfulness and CBT to help you manage symptoms and gain motivation and confidence.
(937) 669-7243 View (937) 669-7243
Photo of Joel T Hardin, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Joel T Hardin
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
(614) 980-0460 View (614) 980-0460
Photo of Jennifer Catlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Catlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Everyone needs some help from time to time, and that's okay. Whether you desire healing from past events or you're stuck deciding which direction to take, I would love to come and walk beside you and be there with you. You are the expert on your life, but sometimes having a supportive partner in exploring your life can help. My practice and guiding orientation is a holistic approach, one that focuses on your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Every person is unique and I like to honor that by emphasizing your innate strengths and providing you with tools you need. I provide a safe place to share your hurts and to heal.
Everyone needs some help from time to time, and that's okay. Whether you desire healing from past events or you're stuck deciding which direction to take, I would love to come and walk beside you and be there with you. You are the expert on your life, but sometimes having a supportive partner in exploring your life can help. My practice and guiding orientation is a holistic approach, one that focuses on your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Every person is unique and I like to honor that by emphasizing your innate strengths and providing you with tools you need. I provide a safe place to share your hurts and to heal.
(614) 942-8737 View (614) 942-8737
Photo of Eric C Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Eric C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
(614) 980-2290 View (614) 980-2290
Photo of Monarch Counseling, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Monarch Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
(614) 918-4935 View (614) 918-4935
Photo of Michael D Perciful, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Michael D Perciful
Counselor, MACM, LPCC-S, LCDCIII, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
(614) 745-8531 View (614) 745-8531
Photo of Cindy Herzberg, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Cindy Herzberg
Counselor, EdD, LSW, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
(614) 412-4124 View (614) 412-4124

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
75% Optum
69% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% 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.