Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA

Photo of Sarah Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Sarah Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Not accepting new clients
I work with clients who are struggling with themselves in some way. Perhaps trying to stop anxiety from running away with them. Perhaps trying to find meaning in what is happening to them and how to manage it. Perhaps fighting their body on weight, shape, or food. I want to end that struggle by building tools to discern and meet needs, replace negative and self-critical thoughts, and support healthier, compassionate beliefs about the self and the world around them.
I work with clients who are struggling with themselves in some way. Perhaps trying to stop anxiety from running away with them. Perhaps trying to find meaning in what is happening to them and how to manage it. Perhaps fighting their body on weight, shape, or food. I want to end that struggle by building tools to discern and meet needs, replace negative and self-critical thoughts, and support healthier, compassionate beliefs about the self and the world around them.
(540) 501-6509 View (540) 501-6509
Photo of Michelle S Beverly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Michelle S Beverly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
“Courage does not always roar.” Tomi Adeymi. As we are faced with daily obstacles and life challenges, we must dig down to find the courage to move forward. At times, courage does not present itself as a roaring lion but as a small quiet voice that cannot be extinguished as it guides us along the pathway of life. I am here to help you find your voice in this journey.
“Courage does not always roar.” Tomi Adeymi. As we are faced with daily obstacles and life challenges, we must dig down to find the courage to move forward. At times, courage does not present itself as a roaring lion but as a small quiet voice that cannot be extinguished as it guides us along the pathway of life. I am here to help you find your voice in this journey.
(540) 534-0748 View (540) 534-0748
Photo of Anna Cahill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Harrisonburg, VA
Anna Cahill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I am accepting new clients! I am a resident in counseling in Harrisonburg, VA. Everyone deserves to feel safe, heard, and understood. No matter what life throws at you, you shouldn’t have to handle it on your own. I work to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space for clients from all different walks of life.
I am accepting new clients! I am a resident in counseling in Harrisonburg, VA. Everyone deserves to feel safe, heard, and understood. No matter what life throws at you, you shouldn’t have to handle it on your own. I work to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space for clients from all different walks of life.
(540) 596-5451 View (540) 596-5451
Photo of Trevor Haase, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Trevor Haase
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I am currently accepting new clients (Updated: 1/11/2023) The ideal client is the one that comes as they are. There's often a pressure people feel to have their struggles neatly wrapped and ready to talk about when initiating therapy. However, therapy can be the perfect place to start that process to form a better understanding of the issues, the needs, and ultimately your own goals.
I am currently accepting new clients (Updated: 1/11/2023) The ideal client is the one that comes as they are. There's often a pressure people feel to have their struggles neatly wrapped and ready to talk about when initiating therapy. However, therapy can be the perfect place to start that process to form a better understanding of the issues, the needs, and ultimately your own goals.
(540) 508-8336 View (540) 508-8336
Photo of Tempest Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Tempest Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience in social work and counseling. I believe counseling is a partnership and journey, you being in the driver’s seat and me being on the passenger side offering a listening ear, warm presence, and gentle guidance. My desire is to empower individuals to maximize their season of life while equipping them with the appropriate tools to do so.
Greetings! I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience in social work and counseling. I believe counseling is a partnership and journey, you being in the driver’s seat and me being on the passenger side offering a listening ear, warm presence, and gentle guidance. My desire is to empower individuals to maximize their season of life while equipping them with the appropriate tools to do so.
(540) 889-3613 View (540) 889-3613
Photo of Kara Michelle Karr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Kara Michelle Karr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I have worked at James Madison University as a mental health counselor in their Counseling Center for over two decades part-time, as I have raised my children. I love my work and am passionate about the way counseling can improve lives! Now that my youngest daughter is in high school, I am looking forward to growing a private practice in addition to my work at JMU. I am excited to see any client who wants to grow as a person or learn to cope with life's challenges. I love to engage in both individual counseling and couple's counseling.
I have worked at James Madison University as a mental health counselor in their Counseling Center for over two decades part-time, as I have raised my children. I love my work and am passionate about the way counseling can improve lives! Now that my youngest daughter is in high school, I am looking forward to growing a private practice in addition to my work at JMU. I am excited to see any client who wants to grow as a person or learn to cope with life's challenges. I love to engage in both individual counseling and couple's counseling.
(540) 318-1638 View (540) 318-1638
Photo of Bluestone Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Bluestone Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, HSP
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
Limited Availability For New Telehealth Clients! Welcome, I am Dr. Paul Pohto. I offer specialized therapy services that lend support, guidance, and direction for when life may have you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I strive to offer affirming and supportive therapeutic services to the Harrisonburg community and Shenandoah Valley. My approach to counseling is rooted in a warm and strong therapeutic bond. A good therapeutic fit allows for aligning on client goals and getting you closer to where you want to be.
Limited Availability For New Telehealth Clients! Welcome, I am Dr. Paul Pohto. I offer specialized therapy services that lend support, guidance, and direction for when life may have you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I strive to offer affirming and supportive therapeutic services to the Harrisonburg community and Shenandoah Valley. My approach to counseling is rooted in a warm and strong therapeutic bond. A good therapeutic fit allows for aligning on client goals and getting you closer to where you want to be.
(540) 253-1540 View (540) 253-1540
Photo of Lauren C Snead, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Lauren C Snead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and provide individual counseling to adolescents, young adults, and adults. My primary focus is in the treatment of depression, anxiety, social anxiety, phase of life issues, ADHD, trauma, and issues related to college-aged students. I have experience providing community-based and school-based counseling to at-risk youth and their families as well as working in a college counseling center.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and provide individual counseling to adolescents, young adults, and adults. My primary focus is in the treatment of depression, anxiety, social anxiety, phase of life issues, ADHD, trauma, and issues related to college-aged students. I have experience providing community-based and school-based counseling to at-risk youth and their families as well as working in a college counseling center.
(540) 302-5636 View (540) 302-5636
Photo of Jen Viola - Viola Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Jen Viola - Viola Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR, Trauma, Anxiety, OCD, CPTSD
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
Are you a busy professional, college student, young adult, and/or parent trying to do it all? Do you feel that past or current events are causing distress in your professional, personal, and/or relational life? You know you are capable, but you feel stuck. You feel ready to work through the struggle and work towards healing to have a more hopeful and healthy future. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feeling irritable, trouble sleeping, anger outbursts, low energy, hypervigilance, or anything else - I will come along side you on your healing journey.
Are you a busy professional, college student, young adult, and/or parent trying to do it all? Do you feel that past or current events are causing distress in your professional, personal, and/or relational life? You know you are capable, but you feel stuck. You feel ready to work through the struggle and work towards healing to have a more hopeful and healthy future. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feeling irritable, trouble sleeping, anger outbursts, low energy, hypervigilance, or anything else - I will come along side you on your healing journey.
(540) 698-5435 View (540) 698-5435
Photo of Mary Leona Hartges, Resident in Counseling in Harrisonburg, VA
Mary Leona Hartges
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Hello! My name is Mary, and I am a resident in counseling here at Rocktown Counseling. While I am open to consulting with anyone who's looking for a therapist, I especially love working with children, teens, and young adults. I have a special place in my heart for those who struggle with depression and anxiety, and also like to work with those having difficulty with new changes in their lives. I offer a range of options for therapy, as I like to pull techniques from multiple therapeutic approaches and tailor them to the client's needs.
Hello! My name is Mary, and I am a resident in counseling here at Rocktown Counseling. While I am open to consulting with anyone who's looking for a therapist, I especially love working with children, teens, and young adults. I have a special place in my heart for those who struggle with depression and anxiety, and also like to work with those having difficulty with new changes in their lives. I offer a range of options for therapy, as I like to pull techniques from multiple therapeutic approaches and tailor them to the client's needs.
View
Photo of Michaela Liskey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Michaela Liskey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I have limited availability for new clients. We all experience challenges and can feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward or make changes. Seeking therapy requires vulnerability and courage as well as a deep desire to be authentically seen and heard. I am dedicated to providing a comfortable, confidential, non-judgmental, and safe environment to explore your feelings, ideas, and experiences. I use a client-centered approach and focus on interpersonal processes and relationships, attachment, and cultural and environmental contexts to understand you in an authentic way.
I have limited availability for new clients. We all experience challenges and can feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward or make changes. Seeking therapy requires vulnerability and courage as well as a deep desire to be authentically seen and heard. I am dedicated to providing a comfortable, confidential, non-judgmental, and safe environment to explore your feelings, ideas, and experiences. I use a client-centered approach and focus on interpersonal processes and relationships, attachment, and cultural and environmental contexts to understand you in an authentic way.
(540) 208-5538 View (540) 208-5538
Photo of Aaron J Boggs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Aaron J Boggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
These thoughts keep spinning in your mind. Every time it slows down, something gives it another turn and it just keeps going. You imagine familiar scenarios, images, and disasters over and over again. You're sure something bad is going to happen. It’s not just stress from school, work or the responsibilities at home. The worry and fear get so bad sometimes that they might boil over into panic. Maybe you have become avoidant of the people or places that trigger these feelings, but then in the back of your mind you hear it whispering. You know deep down that you can't go on like this. You can't hide from yourself forever.
These thoughts keep spinning in your mind. Every time it slows down, something gives it another turn and it just keeps going. You imagine familiar scenarios, images, and disasters over and over again. You're sure something bad is going to happen. It’s not just stress from school, work or the responsibilities at home. The worry and fear get so bad sometimes that they might boil over into panic. Maybe you have become avoidant of the people or places that trigger these feelings, but then in the back of your mind you hear it whispering. You know deep down that you can't go on like this. You can't hide from yourself forever.
(540) 253-1803 View (540) 253-1803
Photo of Bryanna Duncan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Harrisonburg, VA
Bryanna Duncan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Do you find that, if you really think about it, you’re unsure of who you are? Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed? Let’s work together to get your life back! My specialties include working with those who have suffered from abuse, neglect, sexual assault, or incest. Familial conflict, Borderline Personality Disorder, and trauma are areas that I have advanced training in as well. I hold a certification in DBT and have worked with people age 4-70. I am currently supervised and trained by Dr. Laura Copley, the only Ph.D. Certified Trauma Specialist in the Shenandoah Valley. Therapy dog, Luca, is a bonus (see gallery pictures).
Do you find that, if you really think about it, you’re unsure of who you are? Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed? Let’s work together to get your life back! My specialties include working with those who have suffered from abuse, neglect, sexual assault, or incest. Familial conflict, Borderline Personality Disorder, and trauma are areas that I have advanced training in as well. I hold a certification in DBT and have worked with people age 4-70. I am currently supervised and trained by Dr. Laura Copley, the only Ph.D. Certified Trauma Specialist in the Shenandoah Valley. Therapy dog, Luca, is a bonus (see gallery pictures).
(540) 426-3995 View (540) 426-3995
Photo of Brynne Fretwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisonburg, VA
Brynne Fretwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I consider myself to be a trauma informed therapist with years of experience. I am a social worker, and with that I try to focus on the whole person and their environment. I strive to support you without judgment as you work towards your goals. A friend once complained to me that their therapist was a "tea time therapist" who would offer active listening and lots of positive regard, but did not challenge them or offer any feedback. My goal is to ask guiding questions that will lead you to new perspectives, and to foster self reflection so that you can leave this space feeling empowered and capable of change.
I consider myself to be a trauma informed therapist with years of experience. I am a social worker, and with that I try to focus on the whole person and their environment. I strive to support you without judgment as you work towards your goals. A friend once complained to me that their therapist was a "tea time therapist" who would offer active listening and lots of positive regard, but did not challenge them or offer any feedback. My goal is to ask guiding questions that will lead you to new perspectives, and to foster self reflection so that you can leave this space feeling empowered and capable of change.
(540) 517-7437 x1 View (540) 517-7437 x1
Photo of Jamie R. Wyatt, Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Jamie R. Wyatt
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22802  (Online Only)
Do you yearn for a happier, more fulfilled life? Are you struggling with loss, life transition, trauma, depression or anxiety, or a life that feels unsatisfying? I understand how difficult it can be to start the journey of therapy. If you are willing to take this brave step, I am here to listen deeply to your story with non-judgement and compassion, join you in moments of laughter and tears, and journey with you through the scary places. Together we can uncover what gets you stuck, and take the steps necessary to transform your pain into restorative healing.
Do you yearn for a happier, more fulfilled life? Are you struggling with loss, life transition, trauma, depression or anxiety, or a life that feels unsatisfying? I understand how difficult it can be to start the journey of therapy. If you are willing to take this brave step, I am here to listen deeply to your story with non-judgement and compassion, join you in moments of laughter and tears, and journey with you through the scary places. Together we can uncover what gets you stuck, and take the steps necessary to transform your pain into restorative healing.
(434) 204-8178 View (434) 204-8178
Photo of Elizabeth A Shoop, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Elizabeth A Shoop
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Not accepting new clients
Do you have trouble stopping your thoughts or worries? Common conditions such as anxiety and depression are perpetuated by habitual patterns of thought. My clients find relief when they learn to use strategies such as mindfulness, body awareness, and creativity to quiet the mind chatter and access their deeper wisdom and intuition.
Do you have trouble stopping your thoughts or worries? Common conditions such as anxiety and depression are perpetuated by habitual patterns of thought. My clients find relief when they learn to use strategies such as mindfulness, body awareness, and creativity to quiet the mind chatter and access their deeper wisdom and intuition.
(540) 905-8914 View (540) 905-8914
Photo of David Comer, Resident in Counseling in Harrisonburg, VA
David Comer
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Each of us is writing a story with our lives, and like any story we are incomplete without knowing our past and having an idea for our future. I believe counseling is a powerful support that can allow us to overcome hurdles, meet new goals, and live the life we want to live. I enjoy working with people who extend compassionate curiosity to themselves to better understand their life in every aspect.
Each of us is writing a story with our lives, and like any story we are incomplete without knowing our past and having an idea for our future. I believe counseling is a powerful support that can allow us to overcome hurdles, meet new goals, and live the life we want to live. I enjoy working with people who extend compassionate curiosity to themselves to better understand their life in every aspect.
(540) 495-1813 View (540) 495-1813
Photo of Bethany Chupp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Bethany Chupp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Waitlist for new clients
Currently anticipating several month wait for new clients.+ Office hours are M-Th, 8-5.+ As a counselor I work primarily with young adults, providing a therapeutic presence as you navigate challenging life transitions or past experiences. In your journey of self-discovery, I would be honored to walk alongside you. The world can feel big and scary at times, and it can feel so helpful to receive support from someone outside of your daily life. We can work together on identifying your needs, setting goals, developing coping skills, and building more positive relationships.
Currently anticipating several month wait for new clients.+ Office hours are M-Th, 8-5.+ As a counselor I work primarily with young adults, providing a therapeutic presence as you navigate challenging life transitions or past experiences. In your journey of self-discovery, I would be honored to walk alongside you. The world can feel big and scary at times, and it can feel so helpful to receive support from someone outside of your daily life. We can work together on identifying your needs, setting goals, developing coping skills, and building more positive relationships.
(540) 724-6132 View (540) 724-6132
Photo of Travis Kessell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Travis Kessell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
In our lives, each of us will need the strength of another person, though, allowing another person to help takes great courage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a place where the courage to ask for help is met with compassion and patience as we embark on the path to healing together. I help clients with many common struggles (e.g., anxiety, depression, etc.) make the changes they want for a more fulfilling life. I work with children as young as 10 years old up through adults in individual, couple, and family settings.
In our lives, each of us will need the strength of another person, though, allowing another person to help takes great courage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a place where the courage to ask for help is met with compassion and patience as we embark on the path to healing together. I help clients with many common struggles (e.g., anxiety, depression, etc.) make the changes they want for a more fulfilling life. I work with children as young as 10 years old up through adults in individual, couple, and family settings.
(540) 426-3060 View (540) 426-3060
Photo of Kate Corder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Kate Corder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Waitlist for new clients
Note: I currently have a waitlist. I specialize in working with children and families ages 4 and up, using play therapy, attachment therapy, and CBT. I am a former special education teacher who enjoys working with children with special needs, such as ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities. I have experience with adoption, foster care, and ADHD, and love working with foster and adoptive families. I also have training in attachment and can provide Circle of Security Informed attachment therapy for parents and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) for families. I also work with adult females with anxiety or depression.
Note: I currently have a waitlist. I specialize in working with children and families ages 4 and up, using play therapy, attachment therapy, and CBT. I am a former special education teacher who enjoys working with children with special needs, such as ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities. I have experience with adoption, foster care, and ADHD, and love working with foster and adoptive families. I also have training in attachment and can provide Circle of Security Informed attachment therapy for parents and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) for families. I also work with adult females with anxiety or depression.
(540) 426-3118 View (540) 426-3118

See more therapy options for Harrisonburg

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
76% Stress
73% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Anthem | Elevance
79% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Harrisonburg?

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.