Therapists in Lexington, KY

View neighborhoods in Lexington
Photo of Anthony Meza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Anthony Meza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
I have been working with the members of our community for over eight years and have partnered with various agencies throughout the city to ensure success for my clients. Throughout my education and experience, I have found that the therapeutic approaches I favor, but not limited to, are Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I would like to utilize my experience gained throughout my career to empower clients from all age ranges with-in the Lexington community.
I have been working with the members of our community for over eight years and have partnered with various agencies throughout the city to ensure success for my clients. Throughout my education and experience, I have found that the therapeutic approaches I favor, but not limited to, are Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I would like to utilize my experience gained throughout my career to empower clients from all age ranges with-in the Lexington community.
(859) 800-7158 View (859) 800-7158
Photo of Shanna Huff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Shanna Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
I work to empower individuals to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have an LCSW and extensive experience working with individuals who are trying to cope with a multitude of personal issues. Areas of interests include but are not limited to working with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, antagonistic relational stress, narcissistic abuse, chronic stress, or low self-esteem.
I work to empower individuals to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I have an LCSW and extensive experience working with individuals who are trying to cope with a multitude of personal issues. Areas of interests include but are not limited to working with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, antagonistic relational stress, narcissistic abuse, chronic stress, or low self-esteem.
(502) 219-3488 View (502) 219-3488
Photo of Marcia L Hopkins Ph.d., Psychologist in Lexington, KY
Marcia L Hopkins Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40508
As children we create beliefs about ourselves and the world around us that are a result of our interactions with our environment, our heredity and, our relationships with others. Everyday we reinforce those beliefs by our assumptions and our interpretation of events, even though those beliefs may no longer be accurate, may cause us pain, and may negatively impact our ability to function at optimum potential. Counseling and hypnotherapy facilitate awareness, change, empowerment and growth.
As children we create beliefs about ourselves and the world around us that are a result of our interactions with our environment, our heredity and, our relationships with others. Everyday we reinforce those beliefs by our assumptions and our interpretation of events, even though those beliefs may no longer be accurate, may cause us pain, and may negatively impact our ability to function at optimum potential. Counseling and hypnotherapy facilitate awareness, change, empowerment and growth.
(859) 359-2618 View (859) 359-2618
Photo of Sarah Cummins, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Sarah Cummins
Counselor, LPCA, CTP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40517  (Online Only)
Openings immediately! I am passionate about helping people deal with changes in life as they navigate the path to independence, confidence, and a peaceful mind. I have worked primarily with adults and teenagers who are going through feelings of anxiety, panic, depression, and the lasting effects of trauma. I am particularly passionate about working with people who have experienced religious trauma. I provide a nonjudgemental space for people of all identities to clarify and work towards the change they want to see in their life and find a place where they belong.
Openings immediately! I am passionate about helping people deal with changes in life as they navigate the path to independence, confidence, and a peaceful mind. I have worked primarily with adults and teenagers who are going through feelings of anxiety, panic, depression, and the lasting effects of trauma. I am particularly passionate about working with people who have experienced religious trauma. I provide a nonjudgemental space for people of all identities to clarify and work towards the change they want to see in their life and find a place where they belong.
(859) 715-1423 View (859) 715-1423
Photo of Aleigha Judd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Aleigha Judd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Hi my name is Aleigha and I am so happy you are here! Life can be hard while learning to navigate struggles and new situations. Your struggles do not define you, it is courageous to ask for help when you need it, and that is what I aim to provide. I believe that nobody knows you better than yourself, and because of that, I want to work collaboratively with you to help recognize your strengths and set realistic goals that are tailored to you and your lifestyle. I am here to help you and to provide a safe space for you to share your feelings and for you to be yourself without fear of judgment.
Hi my name is Aleigha and I am so happy you are here! Life can be hard while learning to navigate struggles and new situations. Your struggles do not define you, it is courageous to ask for help when you need it, and that is what I aim to provide. I believe that nobody knows you better than yourself, and because of that, I want to work collaboratively with you to help recognize your strengths and set realistic goals that are tailored to you and your lifestyle. I am here to help you and to provide a safe space for you to share your feelings and for you to be yourself without fear of judgment.
(859) 517-4353 View (859) 517-4353
Photo of Erin Salomon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Erin Salomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40502
Do you struggle with overthinking, self-doubt, or have difficulty relaxing? Perhaps you are able to maintain a calm façade, but inside you worry something bad is going to happen or that people will think badly of you. Chronic stress and worry can come at the cost of your overall well-being. Please know you are not alone. No matter what your personal struggles, I offer a safe and compassionate environment that encourages positive change.
Do you struggle with overthinking, self-doubt, or have difficulty relaxing? Perhaps you are able to maintain a calm façade, but inside you worry something bad is going to happen or that people will think badly of you. Chronic stress and worry can come at the cost of your overall well-being. Please know you are not alone. No matter what your personal struggles, I offer a safe and compassionate environment that encourages positive change.
(859) 904-5923 View (859) 904-5923
Photo of Dave Payne, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Dave Payne
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Dave! I am passionate about helping adults with ADHD, anxiety, & depression learn to lead more fulfilling lives. I know first-hand how it feels to live with these conditions, which means I can help you learn realistic and attainable ways to improve your quality of life. I offer sincere empathy for your situation while also helping you challenge yourself to make improvements in your day-to-day living. While simply talking about your problems can help decrease the intensity of your anxiety and depression in many circumstances, what’s even more helpful is to learn about how your mind works and how to handle tough issues
Hi, I’m Dave! I am passionate about helping adults with ADHD, anxiety, & depression learn to lead more fulfilling lives. I know first-hand how it feels to live with these conditions, which means I can help you learn realistic and attainable ways to improve your quality of life. I offer sincere empathy for your situation while also helping you challenge yourself to make improvements in your day-to-day living. While simply talking about your problems can help decrease the intensity of your anxiety and depression in many circumstances, what’s even more helpful is to learn about how your mind works and how to handle tough issues
(859) 696-6197 View (859) 696-6197
Photo of Abigail Charin Ford, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lexington, KY
Abigail Charin Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40505
Perhaps you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disappointed, or like life is just passing you by. Maybe your relationships feel dry and you're having trouble connecting with your loved ones. You might think to yourself, "That's it. I don't want to continue living like this. I want better for myself. I want to enjoy life again." Congratulations to you for embracing this first step toward change. You are brave for this, and I know we can continue to take steps forward together.
Perhaps you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disappointed, or like life is just passing you by. Maybe your relationships feel dry and you're having trouble connecting with your loved ones. You might think to yourself, "That's it. I don't want to continue living like this. I want better for myself. I want to enjoy life again." Congratulations to you for embracing this first step toward change. You are brave for this, and I know we can continue to take steps forward together.
(859) 659-6797 View (859) 659-6797
Photo of Jennifer Blair Painter, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Jennifer Blair Painter
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
Accepting new clients as an out-of-network provider. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment-a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing you from living the life you want. I have been working in the mental health profession since 2013 with experience specifically in mental health counseling with children, adolescents, and adults.
Accepting new clients as an out-of-network provider. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment-a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing you from living the life you want. I have been working in the mental health profession since 2013 with experience specifically in mental health counseling with children, adolescents, and adults.
(859) 904-5504 View (859) 904-5504
Photo of Danielle Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Danielle Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40514
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Many of the individuals I work with are struggling with unwanted thoughts, excessive worrying, often feeling depressed and/or struggling with not having a sense of control (or fear of uncertainty). They are often putting themselves down, experiencing poor self-esteem, not feeling like they are enough and/or placing high expectations on themselves or even others. They also may be struggling with adapting to multiple changes and/ or stressors going on in their life, balancing the work/school/life stress, or simply need help with improving expressing their feelings.
Feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Many of the individuals I work with are struggling with unwanted thoughts, excessive worrying, often feeling depressed and/or struggling with not having a sense of control (or fear of uncertainty). They are often putting themselves down, experiencing poor self-esteem, not feeling like they are enough and/or placing high expectations on themselves or even others. They also may be struggling with adapting to multiple changes and/ or stressors going on in their life, balancing the work/school/life stress, or simply need help with improving expressing their feelings.
(502) 547-9959 View (502) 547-9959
Photo of Jonathan Wilhite, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Jonathan Wilhite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
It is ok not to be ok. We all find ourselves in difficult situations and therapy/counseling can help to alleviate those feelings of shame, guilt, being misunderstood, despair, and other emotions associated with those situations. I enjoy helping people grow in life, overcome adversity, and navigate difficult situations throughout their lives.
It is ok not to be ok. We all find ourselves in difficult situations and therapy/counseling can help to alleviate those feelings of shame, guilt, being misunderstood, despair, and other emotions associated with those situations. I enjoy helping people grow in life, overcome adversity, and navigate difficult situations throughout their lives.
(859) 251-8700 View (859) 251-8700
Photo of Soulshine Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Soulshine Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
Maybe you’re feeling touched-out, overwhelmed or you don't recognize the person staring back at you in the mirror anymore. This may be during a break up, job transition, infertility, during the changes of pregnancy and motherhood, or grief and loss. Maybe you want to heal past trauma or understand the impact of attachment style on your current relationships or parenting. Whatever brings you here, you’ll find the empathy and validation you’ve been craving. I have a special affinity for working with clients struggling with pregnancy, parenting, postpartum and grief/loss.
Maybe you’re feeling touched-out, overwhelmed or you don't recognize the person staring back at you in the mirror anymore. This may be during a break up, job transition, infertility, during the changes of pregnancy and motherhood, or grief and loss. Maybe you want to heal past trauma or understand the impact of attachment style on your current relationships or parenting. Whatever brings you here, you’ll find the empathy and validation you’ve been craving. I have a special affinity for working with clients struggling with pregnancy, parenting, postpartum and grief/loss.
(859) 295-6406 View (859) 295-6406
Photo of Sondra R. Brumett, LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Sondra R. Brumett, LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, EdS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and my Master's and Specialist of Education degrees in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kentucky. I have been providing counseling services to a variety of populations in outpatient, residential, and college settings since 2003. I strongly believe in the resilience of the human spirit and one's ability to change. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental environment and a therapeutic relationship based on trust in which clients can begin taking steps toward their individual goals of change and wellness.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and my Master's and Specialist of Education degrees in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kentucky. I have been providing counseling services to a variety of populations in outpatient, residential, and college settings since 2003. I strongly believe in the resilience of the human spirit and one's ability to change. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental environment and a therapeutic relationship based on trust in which clients can begin taking steps toward their individual goals of change and wellness.
(859) 888-1473 View (859) 888-1473
Photo of Imelda N Bratton, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Imelda N Bratton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCCS, PSC, RPTS
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
Life can be challenging. Some people have an ongoing challenge due to trauma, anxiety, or toxic family dynamics. Others have situational challenges caused by stress, loss, or struggle in a new relationship or new family dynamic. For children under 10, I work with parents and caregivers using Child Parent Relationship Therapy to improve the relationship & attachment and SPACE for your child's anxiety. This allows me to work individually with parents to teach skills so that you may work with your child at home. These skills are lifelong skills, which most find to be extremely helpful!
Life can be challenging. Some people have an ongoing challenge due to trauma, anxiety, or toxic family dynamics. Others have situational challenges caused by stress, loss, or struggle in a new relationship or new family dynamic. For children under 10, I work with parents and caregivers using Child Parent Relationship Therapy to improve the relationship & attachment and SPACE for your child's anxiety. This allows me to work individually with parents to teach skills so that you may work with your child at home. These skills are lifelong skills, which most find to be extremely helpful!
(859) 687-6964 View (859) 687-6964
Photo of Kelly Sherlock-Coffee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lexington, KY
Kelly Sherlock-Coffee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Kelly has a master's degree from the University of Louisville in Social Work with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has practiced for over a decade doing individual and family therapy with older teens, young adults and women throughout the life stages and is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Kelly has a master's degree from the University of Louisville in Social Work with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has practiced for over a decade doing individual and family therapy with older teens, young adults and women throughout the life stages and is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(859) 350-7353 View (859) 350-7353
Photo of Christina Woodruff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Christina Woodruff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Are you struggling to heal from past/present trauma? Are unresolved traumatic experiences affecting your daily life (school, social, work)? Have you developed an unhealthy self-image, unhealthy eating habits (eating disorders), and unhealthy relationships (peers, family, significant others)? Do you feel as though your life is spiraling out of control? Are you ready to heal from your trauma and become a happier, healthier you? My charge as a therapist is to empower individuals with tools and resources to live their best life.
Are you struggling to heal from past/present trauma? Are unresolved traumatic experiences affecting your daily life (school, social, work)? Have you developed an unhealthy self-image, unhealthy eating habits (eating disorders), and unhealthy relationships (peers, family, significant others)? Do you feel as though your life is spiraling out of control? Are you ready to heal from your trauma and become a happier, healthier you? My charge as a therapist is to empower individuals with tools and resources to live their best life.
(859) 469-4308 View (859) 469-4308
Photo of Austin Huffman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lexington, KY
Austin Huffman
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40508  (Online Only)
Do you experience emotional pain, but don't know why? Do you feel stuck repeating the same patterns in relationships? Or a feeling that life is empty, pointless? These issues can have a debilitating effect on your ability to achieve your potential and live a meaningful life. People who experience these issues often come to therapy in the hope of creating deep, lasting change. This change can allow them to live a more fulfilling life.
Do you experience emotional pain, but don't know why? Do you feel stuck repeating the same patterns in relationships? Or a feeling that life is empty, pointless? These issues can have a debilitating effect on your ability to achieve your potential and live a meaningful life. People who experience these issues often come to therapy in the hope of creating deep, lasting change. This change can allow them to live a more fulfilling life.
(859) 780-5986 View (859) 780-5986
Photo of Family Village Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington, KY
Family Village Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
Family Village Counseling Center is a telehealth only mental health agency. We have multiple therapists with many years experience, offering services children, teens, families, adults and couples. Our therapists offer laid-back, flexible services, to allow you to feel more comfortable in connecting with a therapist that meets your therapeutic needs. We accept Medicaid and are in network with most major commercial insurance plans. We do offer private pay options for individuals and can explore payment plans or a sliding scale fee if needed.
Family Village Counseling Center is a telehealth only mental health agency. We have multiple therapists with many years experience, offering services children, teens, families, adults and couples. Our therapists offer laid-back, flexible services, to allow you to feel more comfortable in connecting with a therapist that meets your therapeutic needs. We accept Medicaid and are in network with most major commercial insurance plans. We do offer private pay options for individuals and can explore payment plans or a sliding scale fee if needed.
(859) 646-2778 View (859) 646-2778
Photo of Kelly Smith, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Kelly Smith
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
Life can be hard. Sometimes we can feel like we are falling into the same old patterns and asking ourselves the same unhelpful questions. This can be difficult because we often get stuck here rather than finding the growth and progress that we desire. As a therapist, my hope is to help you better understand this feeling of "stuckness” the various things which lead us to this space.
Life can be hard. Sometimes we can feel like we are falling into the same old patterns and asking ourselves the same unhelpful questions. This can be difficult because we often get stuck here rather than finding the growth and progress that we desire. As a therapist, my hope is to help you better understand this feeling of "stuckness” the various things which lead us to this space.
(859) 549-7856 View (859) 549-7856
Photo of Anna Stephens, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Anna Stephens
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
In this time of unrest, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are highented and can effect children and adults alike. I am a Certified Play Therapist working toward Registration with over two years of experience working with adults and children dealing with these issues and more. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am certified in Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to counseling is to work conjointly with the client to help them acheive their goals. I am currently accepting new clients and am available to speak to you via phone or online. I am here to help.
In this time of unrest, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are highented and can effect children and adults alike. I am a Certified Play Therapist working toward Registration with over two years of experience working with adults and children dealing with these issues and more. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am certified in Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to counseling is to work conjointly with the client to help them acheive their goals. I am currently accepting new clients and am available to speak to you via phone or online. I am here to help.
(859) 470-8187 View (859) 470-8187

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lexington, KY

700+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Lexington, KY who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
63% Relationship Issues
59% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Humana

How Therapists in Lexington, KY see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Lexington?

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.