Photo of O Sun Yoo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
O Sun Yoo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and together, we can work on reconnecting with that "you" at your best. At times, we lose sight of ourselves; we take on too much, we skip meals, sacrifice sleep, and simply don't take care of ourselves. We lose our connection to our innate "superpowers" and we need to reset, reboot and restart. We will address self-care, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, boundary setting, and exploring and increasing wellness in your life.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and together, we can work on reconnecting with that "you" at your best. At times, we lose sight of ourselves; we take on too much, we skip meals, sacrifice sleep, and simply don't take care of ourselves. We lose our connection to our innate "superpowers" and we need to reset, reboot and restart. We will address self-care, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, boundary setting, and exploring and increasing wellness in your life.
(408) 440-5403 View (408) 440-5403
Photo of Drew Pillsbury, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Drew Pillsbury
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My intention as a therapist is to provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma (PTSD/complex), relationship difficulties, grief, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, struggles with self-esteem and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to aid in personal growth and improve their relationships. I bring a strong sense of compassion to my work and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can get clarification on what you would like to be different in your life and how to get you there.
My intention as a therapist is to provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma (PTSD/complex), relationship difficulties, grief, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, struggles with self-esteem and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to aid in personal growth and improve their relationships. I bring a strong sense of compassion to my work and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can get clarification on what you would like to be different in your life and how to get you there.
(424) 344-5642 View (424) 344-5642
Photo of Carol Ellis Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Carol Ellis Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
You are not alone. You don't have to deal with your current situation without help whether it is hopelessness, anxiety, pain, grief, loss or indecision. If you feel alone in your marriage or life isn't what you imagined and you don't know what you can do to get relief from those sinking, lost or frantic feelings, there are answers. Life can change quite quickly. I am a Reiki Master Teacher so I am more able to tune into the needs of my clients on many levels. Eighteen years with TWA gave me an understanding of airline issues and that population too. I was on the board of directors of Project Touch in Hermosa Beach and CAMFT SB/LB.
You are not alone. You don't have to deal with your current situation without help whether it is hopelessness, anxiety, pain, grief, loss or indecision. If you feel alone in your marriage or life isn't what you imagined and you don't know what you can do to get relief from those sinking, lost or frantic feelings, there are answers. Life can change quite quickly. I am a Reiki Master Teacher so I am more able to tune into the needs of my clients on many levels. Eighteen years with TWA gave me an understanding of airline issues and that population too. I was on the board of directors of Project Touch in Hermosa Beach and CAMFT SB/LB.
(310) 889-0716 View (310) 889-0716
Photo of Margaret Sigel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Margaret Sigel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
As your therapist, my goal is to assist you in finding meaning in your experiences, addressing unresolved issues, and navigating life with more ease. Therapy provides a chance to develop self-awareness, self-compassion, and resilience, which can be challenging to achieve on your own. Whether you're facing a difficult life transition or working through the aftermath of a stressful childhood, remember you don't have to tackle it alone. Support is here, and healing is within reach.
As your therapist, my goal is to assist you in finding meaning in your experiences, addressing unresolved issues, and navigating life with more ease. Therapy provides a chance to develop self-awareness, self-compassion, and resilience, which can be challenging to achieve on your own. Whether you're facing a difficult life transition or working through the aftermath of a stressful childhood, remember you don't have to tackle it alone. Support is here, and healing is within reach.
(310) 807-6914 View (310) 807-6914
Photo of Rebecca Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Rebecca Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
What an upside down world we live in right now! If you're reading this, you've been greatly impacted either by the life-changing pandemic or traumatic relational experiences that have left you wondering which direction to choose moving forward. Are you challenging yourself at the very core with questions like, "Who am I, really? & "What do I want/need from this lifetime, really?"
What an upside down world we live in right now! If you're reading this, you've been greatly impacted either by the life-changing pandemic or traumatic relational experiences that have left you wondering which direction to choose moving forward. Are you challenging yourself at the very core with questions like, "Who am I, really? & "What do I want/need from this lifetime, really?"
(310) 321-4909 View (310) 321-4909
Irene Berlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I am an experienced,supportive therapist helping clients find their own answers. I have been in practice for over 20 years and work with seniors,couples and young women.One of my areas of specialty is working with women who are dealing with postpartum depression.
I am an experienced,supportive therapist helping clients find their own answers. I have been in practice for over 20 years and work with seniors,couples and young women.One of my areas of specialty is working with women who are dealing with postpartum depression.
(310) 299-8179 View (310) 299-8179
Photo of Shari Giti, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Shari Giti
Psychologist, PsyD, MM, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Dr. Shari Giti is a child & adolescent psychologist and the Clinical Director of South Bay Child and Family Therapy--a comprehensive psychological practice in Hermosa Beach and Torrance/Palos Verdes. At SBCFT, Dr. Giti provides child, teen, and family therapy. She also specializes in psychological, educational, and AD/HD, assessment services. In addition to training and experience in child therapy, Dr. Giti completed a prestigious fellowship in Child/Adolescent Assessment and Diagnostics. She works hand-in-hand with educators, physicians and other treatment team members to ensure the highest quality care for her patients.
Dr. Shari Giti is a child & adolescent psychologist and the Clinical Director of South Bay Child and Family Therapy--a comprehensive psychological practice in Hermosa Beach and Torrance/Palos Verdes. At SBCFT, Dr. Giti provides child, teen, and family therapy. She also specializes in psychological, educational, and AD/HD, assessment services. In addition to training and experience in child therapy, Dr. Giti completed a prestigious fellowship in Child/Adolescent Assessment and Diagnostics. She works hand-in-hand with educators, physicians and other treatment team members to ensure the highest quality care for her patients.
(424) 321-6796 View (424) 321-6796
Photo of Kelly Warren, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Kelly Warren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Everyone has within them the ability to attain personal growth by gaining insight into their unique strengths. During times of stress, this inner resilience can be called upon to guide them in discovering purpose and meaning in their lives, improving interpersonal relationships, and adapting to healthier patterns of relating to others. I take a collaborative, yet challenging approach in assisting children, adults, couples, and families on their path towards positive change. I use a solution-focused exploration of current struggles to help them break unhealthy patterns and develop coping skills and a sense of hope and strength.
Everyone has within them the ability to attain personal growth by gaining insight into their unique strengths. During times of stress, this inner resilience can be called upon to guide them in discovering purpose and meaning in their lives, improving interpersonal relationships, and adapting to healthier patterns of relating to others. I take a collaborative, yet challenging approach in assisting children, adults, couples, and families on their path towards positive change. I use a solution-focused exploration of current struggles to help them break unhealthy patterns and develop coping skills and a sense of hope and strength.
(424) 425-3710 View (424) 425-3710
Photo of Brooke M. Sklar, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Brooke M. Sklar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with adults, teens and couples suffering with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, intimate relationship difficulties and more. I strive to provide a safe space where you can heal and grow. My approach is holistic and strength based. I have advanced training in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I work with adults, teens and couples suffering with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, intimate relationship difficulties and more. I strive to provide a safe space where you can heal and grow. My approach is holistic and strength based. I have advanced training in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
(310) 773-0569 View (310) 773-0569
Photo of Valerie Johns, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Valerie Johns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
We seek therapy for so many reasons: relationship challenges, physical pain, parenting, isolation, depression, anxiety, career. Sometimes it's just hard to live with uncertainty. I work with all kinds of addictions and intimacy challenges. I treat people of all ages who are going through life transitions: graduations, marriage, new baby, career changes, divorce, illness - while others are athletes and artists wanting greater achievements. Many are grieving or just needing someone to listen. Together, we can determine what kind of therapy will work for you.
We seek therapy for so many reasons: relationship challenges, physical pain, parenting, isolation, depression, anxiety, career. Sometimes it's just hard to live with uncertainty. I work with all kinds of addictions and intimacy challenges. I treat people of all ages who are going through life transitions: graduations, marriage, new baby, career changes, divorce, illness - while others are athletes and artists wanting greater achievements. Many are grieving or just needing someone to listen. Together, we can determine what kind of therapy will work for you.
(424) 327-9157 View (424) 327-9157
Photo of Melissa Kay, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Melissa Kay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
"I CAN HELP YOU FIND HAPPINESS AND CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT" Your thoughts and feelings determine what your life is about and I can help guide you towards the manifestation of your dreams and happiness in all areas of your life, such as relationships, marriage, family, healthy body, career, success, etc. I have a unique approach that includes Holistic Counseling, Spirituality, the "Law of Attraction" and Mind-Body-Spirit Healing. I am very intuitive and a healer and I have had great success helping people thrive and live the life they want. I love the work I do and feel called to help you.
"I CAN HELP YOU FIND HAPPINESS AND CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT" Your thoughts and feelings determine what your life is about and I can help guide you towards the manifestation of your dreams and happiness in all areas of your life, such as relationships, marriage, family, healthy body, career, success, etc. I have a unique approach that includes Holistic Counseling, Spirituality, the "Law of Attraction" and Mind-Body-Spirit Healing. I am very intuitive and a healer and I have had great success helping people thrive and live the life they want. I love the work I do and feel called to help you.
(310) 683-5422 View (310) 683-5422
Photo of Alexis Maron: Mental Fitness and Performance in 90254, CA
Alexis Maron: Mental Fitness and Performance
MA, RDT, BCT, RADT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
The main reason why couples seek counseling is due to a communication breakdown that begins to dismantle an otherwise healthy relationship. Our primary need is to be understood, but if partners are using different modes of communication, there can be a disconnect. DT can provide the jump-start to help find the excitement and communication that couples experienced at the beginning of a relationship, and the common ground that can build a stronger place from which to build trust. In learning more about the roles we play, DT offers partners the opportunity to gain greater insight about themselves and about their problems in relationships.
The main reason why couples seek counseling is due to a communication breakdown that begins to dismantle an otherwise healthy relationship. Our primary need is to be understood, but if partners are using different modes of communication, there can be a disconnect. DT can provide the jump-start to help find the excitement and communication that couples experienced at the beginning of a relationship, and the common ground that can build a stronger place from which to build trust. In learning more about the roles we play, DT offers partners the opportunity to gain greater insight about themselves and about their problems in relationships.
(323) 289-2220 View (323) 289-2220
Photo of Kelly Anderson-Bohlinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Kelly Anderson-Bohlinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CCPS, EMDR, PhD Stu
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I maintain a private practice in Hermosa Beach, CA. As an interactive, solution-focused therapist my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client with compassion and understanding. I specialize in marital and partner relationships. Pre-marital, Sex Addiction and Partners of SA's, Betrayal Trauma, Infidelity, Gottman's Couples & Discernment and Individual therapy with a focus on relationships. Groups for Divorce Betrayal Trauma.
I maintain a private practice in Hermosa Beach, CA. As an interactive, solution-focused therapist my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client with compassion and understanding. I specialize in marital and partner relationships. Pre-marital, Sex Addiction and Partners of SA's, Betrayal Trauma, Infidelity, Gottman's Couples & Discernment and Individual therapy with a focus on relationships. Groups for Divorce Betrayal Trauma.
(424) 371-8306 View (424) 371-8306
Photo of Vanessa Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Vanessa Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Hi there! I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, couples, or families who are willing to begin or continue their therapeutic journey. I service clients from all walks of life who are wanting help untangling the difficult challenges that come with being a human.
Hi there! I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, couples, or families who are willing to begin or continue their therapeutic journey. I service clients from all walks of life who are wanting help untangling the difficult challenges that come with being a human.
(424) 262-3414 View (424) 262-3414
Photo of Taylor Glaspie-Walton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Taylor Glaspie-Walton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Taylor is a clinician with research and clinical experience that focuses on high performance in sport and in life. His primary clinical focus is performance in sport through positive psychology, as well as improving the overall mental health of clients of all ages. Taylor has gained experience working with children, adolescents and young adults dealing with issues of anxiety, depression, PTSD, suicidal ideation, grief, and loss. He also has experience working in trauma and sexual assault and domestic abuse. Taylor's current research interest is anxiety's effects on athletes and approaches to improving performance and well-being.
Taylor is a clinician with research and clinical experience that focuses on high performance in sport and in life. His primary clinical focus is performance in sport through positive psychology, as well as improving the overall mental health of clients of all ages. Taylor has gained experience working with children, adolescents and young adults dealing with issues of anxiety, depression, PTSD, suicidal ideation, grief, and loss. He also has experience working in trauma and sexual assault and domestic abuse. Taylor's current research interest is anxiety's effects on athletes and approaches to improving performance and well-being.
(424) 544-8361 View (424) 544-8361
Photo of Erin Rieger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Erin Rieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
(424) 285-1688 View (424) 285-1688
Photo of Jessica Zucker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Jessica Zucker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed in the challenges you're up against? Ever feel confused about where things went wrong, and unsure how to get your life back on track? When we're stuck in the dips of life, it can be difficult to see the way out. The essence of therapy, is having a safe space to process feelings while learning to navigate the struggles. Each client offers a unique blend of beliefs, perspectives and values. I offer support, warmth and empathy. I offer a space without judgement, an opening for us to work together to find a way forward.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed in the challenges you're up against? Ever feel confused about where things went wrong, and unsure how to get your life back on track? When we're stuck in the dips of life, it can be difficult to see the way out. The essence of therapy, is having a safe space to process feelings while learning to navigate the struggles. Each client offers a unique blend of beliefs, perspectives and values. I offer support, warmth and empathy. I offer a space without judgement, an opening for us to work together to find a way forward.
(818) 217-8703 View (818) 217-8703
Photo of Carly Steinberger-Pcit Therapist And Parent Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90254, CA
Carly Steinberger-Pcit Therapist And Parent Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Is your young child tantruming, not listening, anxious or withdrawn? My goal is to help you address these issues by deeply connecting and attuning to your child. I will work with you and your child simultaneously, guiding you through difficult moments with them so you feel equipped and confident as a parent. My specialty is treating young children, specifically those who are 0-7 years old.
Is your young child tantruming, not listening, anxious or withdrawn? My goal is to help you address these issues by deeply connecting and attuning to your child. I will work with you and your child simultaneously, guiding you through difficult moments with them so you feel equipped and confident as a parent. My specialty is treating young children, specifically those who are 0-7 years old.
(714) 597-6087 View (714) 597-6087
Photo of Cassandra Giornali Sorrell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Cassandra Giornali Sorrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
A genuine relationship between people is one in which you are comfortable to be yourself and in which the other clearly sees your potential and supports its growth. Compassion, acceptance, comfort, respect and safety is what I strive to create in a relationship with a client. This encourages a deepening trust to develop while allowing the work towards true healing to begin. People often come to therapy searching for relief from depression, anxiety, grief and difficult relationships. I have extensive experience working with adults, couples and teens.
A genuine relationship between people is one in which you are comfortable to be yourself and in which the other clearly sees your potential and supports its growth. Compassion, acceptance, comfort, respect and safety is what I strive to create in a relationship with a client. This encourages a deepening trust to develop while allowing the work towards true healing to begin. People often come to therapy searching for relief from depression, anxiety, grief and difficult relationships. I have extensive experience working with adults, couples and teens.
(310) 945-2892 View (310) 945-2892
Photo of Samantha Calvillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90254, CA
Samantha Calvillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I welcome women who are ready to reclaim control over their lives and actively engage in the process of unlearning obstacles that may hinder their happiness. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embrace change and embark on a journey of healing. Typically, she may be grappling with challenges related to trauma, anxiety, stress, navigating her Latina identity, or navigating stressful life transitions. Together, we can navigate these complexities and work towards a path of empowerment and growth.
I welcome women who are ready to reclaim control over their lives and actively engage in the process of unlearning obstacles that may hinder their happiness. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embrace change and embark on a journey of healing. Typically, she may be grappling with challenges related to trauma, anxiety, stress, navigating her Latina identity, or navigating stressful life transitions. Together, we can navigate these complexities and work towards a path of empowerment and growth.
(310) 455-8094 View (310) 455-8094

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90254

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 90254 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

52% Aetna
46% Cigna and Evernorth
46% Other

How Therapists in 90254 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 90254?

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.