Therapists in Venice, FL

Photo of Susan M Hunter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Susan M Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
My passion is to assist and empower my clients in achieving his or her valued goals. Each person has a wealth of strengths, and my sessions assist clients to realize and utilize these positive attributes toward improved holistic health and healing. My sessions are collaborative and oriented toward the individual needs of my clients. I have earned my Masters in Social Work from Rhode Island College, as well as Bachelors from URI in Human Development and Family Studies, and Associates in Applied Science. Licenses: LICSW, Physical Therapist Assistant; Certified Professional School Social Worker, Certified in Counseling Substance Troubled Persons.
My passion is to assist and empower my clients in achieving his or her valued goals. Each person has a wealth of strengths, and my sessions assist clients to realize and utilize these positive attributes toward improved holistic health and healing. My sessions are collaborative and oriented toward the individual needs of my clients. I have earned my Masters in Social Work from Rhode Island College, as well as Bachelors from URI in Human Development and Family Studies, and Associates in Applied Science. Licenses: LICSW, Physical Therapist Assistant; Certified Professional School Social Worker, Certified in Counseling Substance Troubled Persons.
(941) 344-3350 View (941) 344-3350
Photo of Lee Watts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Lee Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
I offer counseling services to help you figure out what changes you want to make, and help you to put those changes in place.
I offer counseling services to help you figure out what changes you want to make, and help you to put those changes in place.
(941) 357-7329 View (941) 357-7329
Photo of Ginger Martin, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Ginger Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
Dr. Martin takes a comprehensive, collaborative, and thorough approach to evaluations. Each child is unique and each family has different needs. The end goal of the assessment is to better understand your child and to help create a roadmap of supports and next steps to help your child thrive.
Dr. Martin takes a comprehensive, collaborative, and thorough approach to evaluations. Each child is unique and each family has different needs. The end goal of the assessment is to better understand your child and to help create a roadmap of supports and next steps to help your child thrive.
(941) 267-0463 View (941) 267-0463
Photo of Veronica Medina, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Veronica Medina
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
As a parent, I know how badly you want your child to be happy, to make friends, and to be successful in school. Certain challenges get in the way of these goals. Your child may have difficulty paying attention, controlling their behavior, keeping up at school, learning, or making and keeping friends. They may feel worried or sad too often. You know your child is struggling but you don't know how to help. I believe that every child should have the support they need to reach their potential and, most importantly, that every child deserves to be seen, understood, and helped.
As a parent, I know how badly you want your child to be happy, to make friends, and to be successful in school. Certain challenges get in the way of these goals. Your child may have difficulty paying attention, controlling their behavior, keeping up at school, learning, or making and keeping friends. They may feel worried or sad too often. You know your child is struggling but you don't know how to help. I believe that every child should have the support they need to reach their potential and, most importantly, that every child deserves to be seen, understood, and helped.
(941) 254-5818 View (941) 254-5818
Photo of Judith Steiner, Counselor in Venice, FL
Judith Steiner
Counselor, LMHC, TIRT, LSRT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
Judith Steiner is a LMHC, Certified TIR Trainer and Facilitator, Certified LSR Trainer and Facilitator, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, LMHC Intern Supervisor and TIR Certification Committee Member. She has been in private practice in Venice, FL since 1990. Her practice encompasses trauma and its associated disorders, as well as addictions, depression and anxiety. She treats trauma with a technique called Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). TIR has been approved by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Government) and is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices.
Judith Steiner is a LMHC, Certified TIR Trainer and Facilitator, Certified LSR Trainer and Facilitator, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, LMHC Intern Supervisor and TIR Certification Committee Member. She has been in private practice in Venice, FL since 1990. Her practice encompasses trauma and its associated disorders, as well as addictions, depression and anxiety. She treats trauma with a technique called Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). TIR has been approved by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Government) and is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices.
(941) 270-3583 View (941) 270-3583
Photo of June Tomaso-Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
June Tomaso-Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
I worked with adults for the past 30 years who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, struggling through a developmental transition, those who have had a recent loss and need to grieve, or those having problems in their relationships with their partners. My areas of expertise include: Trauma Resolution-EMDR Trained, Sex Therapy-Qualified Therapist State of Florida.
I worked with adults for the past 30 years who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, struggling through a developmental transition, those who have had a recent loss and need to grieve, or those having problems in their relationships with their partners. My areas of expertise include: Trauma Resolution-EMDR Trained, Sex Therapy-Qualified Therapist State of Florida.
(941) 357-7427 View (941) 357-7427
Photo of Linda Thema, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Linda Thema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
I have been a psychotherapist for 35+ years, working with individuals, couples and families. Life is a challenge and often presents us with moments that are difficult to handle by ourselves. Seeking counseling is a way of helping us learn how to better understand and cope with those times when we feel stuck. A willingness to reveal our problems, an openness to looking at how we respond to problems and commitment to change are all acts of great courage.
I have been a psychotherapist for 35+ years, working with individuals, couples and families. Life is a challenge and often presents us with moments that are difficult to handle by ourselves. Seeking counseling is a way of helping us learn how to better understand and cope with those times when we feel stuck. A willingness to reveal our problems, an openness to looking at how we respond to problems and commitment to change are all acts of great courage.
(941) 483-4393 View (941) 483-4393
Photo of Robin Mathews, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Robin Mathews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
Are you looking to explore varying emotions? Searching for clarity or guidance? Looking for a safe place to process things out loud? Then lets chat. There is empowerment in knowledge. Once you have the knowledge and develop an understanding, you are empowered to do with it what you will. Positive or negative. Something or nothing. The chose is yours. Knowledge can offer you clarity in seeing patterns never noticed before or in changing patterns you are fully aware of yet need the tools to promote change. My goal is to empower you gain insight and understanding as well as encouraging you as you make positive change in your life.
Are you looking to explore varying emotions? Searching for clarity or guidance? Looking for a safe place to process things out loud? Then lets chat. There is empowerment in knowledge. Once you have the knowledge and develop an understanding, you are empowered to do with it what you will. Positive or negative. Something or nothing. The chose is yours. Knowledge can offer you clarity in seeing patterns never noticed before or in changing patterns you are fully aware of yet need the tools to promote change. My goal is to empower you gain insight and understanding as well as encouraging you as you make positive change in your life.
(941) 999-3342 View (941) 999-3342
Photo of Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA, Psychologist in Venice, FL
Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. In the last 18 years, I have found that the combination of cognitive behavioral talk therapy and/or a complimentary psycho-physiological therapy, EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback, has been the most robust evidenced-based interventions I have used in my years of practice.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. In the last 18 years, I have found that the combination of cognitive behavioral talk therapy and/or a complimentary psycho-physiological therapy, EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback, has been the most robust evidenced-based interventions I have used in my years of practice.
(941) 487-0976 View (941) 487-0976
Photo of Amy Claude, Counselor in Venice, FL
Amy Claude
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are dealing with overwhelming anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, or career difficulties, I am here to help. As a mom with two young boys, I understand that life can be chaotic! One of my goals as your therapist is to help you focus on yourself in the midst of the chaos. Along with learning strategies to cope with current stressors, processing past experiences can also bring healing and peace. Therapy goals can include building healthy thought patterns, achieving work-life balance, improving relationships, focusing on family life, building self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, among others.
Whether you are dealing with overwhelming anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, or career difficulties, I am here to help. As a mom with two young boys, I understand that life can be chaotic! One of my goals as your therapist is to help you focus on yourself in the midst of the chaos. Along with learning strategies to cope with current stressors, processing past experiences can also bring healing and peace. Therapy goals can include building healthy thought patterns, achieving work-life balance, improving relationships, focusing on family life, building self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, among others.
(941) 300-1936 View (941) 300-1936
Photo of Mary Claire O. McNair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Mary Claire O. McNair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
(941) 229-7606 View (941) 229-7606
Photo of Kalin Palmer - Healing Connections Therapy, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Venice, FL
Kalin Palmer - Healing Connections Therapy
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
The idea of therapy can be really scary, especially for children and adults who are already feeling overwhelmed! I have a strong passion for working with youth - I tend to gravitate toward young clients struggling with history of trauma, frequent anxiety, and difficulties with regulating emotions and/or behaviors. That being said, I’ve recently done some wonderful work with adults as well. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have had difficulty enjoying therapy previously, as I believe sessions should typically feel empowering rather than upsetting.
The idea of therapy can be really scary, especially for children and adults who are already feeling overwhelmed! I have a strong passion for working with youth - I tend to gravitate toward young clients struggling with history of trauma, frequent anxiety, and difficulties with regulating emotions and/or behaviors. That being said, I’ve recently done some wonderful work with adults as well. I am especially passionate about helping individuals who have had difficulty enjoying therapy previously, as I believe sessions should typically feel empowering rather than upsetting.
(941) 344-2754 View (941) 344-2754
Photo of Marylou T Ugo, Counselor in Venice, FL
Marylou T Ugo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
Waitlist for new clients
Has the pandemic and/or social unrest triggered fears, distrust or sadness for your and/or your loved one? Are you struggling with something that has you tossing and turning at night? Have things gotten out of control at home, work, or with an addiction? Are your loved ones' behaviors causing you problems? Depression, anxiety and frustrations have plagued all of us from time to time but on occasion we feel stuck and unable to get out of the rut. Other times the losses and scars we’ve been trying to ignore become too loud to ignore. There are answers to the questions and ways out of the darkness.
Has the pandemic and/or social unrest triggered fears, distrust or sadness for your and/or your loved one? Are you struggling with something that has you tossing and turning at night? Have things gotten out of control at home, work, or with an addiction? Are your loved ones' behaviors causing you problems? Depression, anxiety and frustrations have plagued all of us from time to time but on occasion we feel stuck and unable to get out of the rut. Other times the losses and scars we’ve been trying to ignore become too loud to ignore. There are answers to the questions and ways out of the darkness.
(941) 909-2752 View (941) 909-2752
Photo of Pamela Osborne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Pamela Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
(941) 265-1647 View (941) 265-1647
Photo of Randy Walchle, Counselor in Venice, FL
Randy Walchle
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
As manager of Fully Alive & Renewed LLC, I specialize in individual, couple, and family therapy utilizing neuroscience and faith to address the emotional and psychological disruption formed in the mind which interferes with building and maintaining relationships. This neuroscience and faith approach addresses why and how to heal many of life's issues, like depression, loss, grief, conflict, divorce, and addictions. Heal the mind and experience a new life!
As manager of Fully Alive & Renewed LLC, I specialize in individual, couple, and family therapy utilizing neuroscience and faith to address the emotional and psychological disruption formed in the mind which interferes with building and maintaining relationships. This neuroscience and faith approach addresses why and how to heal many of life's issues, like depression, loss, grief, conflict, divorce, and addictions. Heal the mind and experience a new life!
(941) 837-5620 View (941) 837-5620
Photo of Theresa A Benedict, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Theresa A Benedict
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
It is my goal to assist clients in recognizing and maximizing their strengths so that they can experience more enjoyment in their lives. By providing a safe, supportive and understanding environment I am able to help my clients in making healthy changes. I truly enjoy collaborating with clients to address areas of concern and to facilitate growth. My approach to therapy is non-traditional, solution focused and very effective. Therapy is individualized to the client's needs and goals. I work in both short-term and long-term milieu depending on the client's preferences and needs.
It is my goal to assist clients in recognizing and maximizing their strengths so that they can experience more enjoyment in their lives. By providing a safe, supportive and understanding environment I am able to help my clients in making healthy changes. I truly enjoy collaborating with clients to address areas of concern and to facilitate growth. My approach to therapy is non-traditional, solution focused and very effective. Therapy is individualized to the client's needs and goals. I work in both short-term and long-term milieu depending on the client's preferences and needs.
(941) 357-7365 View (941) 357-7365
Photo of Carrie Lynn Phelps, Counselor in Venice, FL
Carrie Lynn Phelps
Counselor, LMHC, CST-T, LMT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
My areas of expertise include issues of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I have a Body, Mind, Spirit approach, where I help clients connect within themselves to find the underlying issues that are creating problems in their lives, then help clients learn to identify the thought patterns that can cause dysfunction and develop strategies to lead happier and healthier lives.
My areas of expertise include issues of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I have a Body, Mind, Spirit approach, where I help clients connect within themselves to find the underlying issues that are creating problems in their lives, then help clients learn to identify the thought patterns that can cause dysfunction and develop strategies to lead happier and healthier lives.
(941) 803-1724 View (941) 803-1724
Photo of David Koerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
David Koerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
I did my undergraduate work at Boston University and received my Masters in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Carolina. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW), for over 20 years. I draw upon a wide variety of lived experiences, from being a Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety and the effects of trauma.
I did my undergraduate work at Boston University and received my Masters in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Carolina. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW), for over 20 years. I draw upon a wide variety of lived experiences, from being a Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety and the effects of trauma.
(941) 200-3124 View (941) 200-3124
Photo of Kate Pompei, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Kate Pompei
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kate. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families. My therapeutic focuses are Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Substance Use. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relational, Structural Family Therapy, and Grief Therapy. I like the therapeutic goals to be determined collaboratively with myself and the client. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations and work on resolving issues.
Hi, I'm Kate. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families. My therapeutic focuses are Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Substance Use. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relational, Structural Family Therapy, and Grief Therapy. I like the therapeutic goals to be determined collaboratively with myself and the client. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations and work on resolving issues.
(904) 593-4910 View (904) 593-4910
Photo of Confidential Care Professional Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Confidential Care Professional Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
Is your happily ever after turning into the war of the roses? Are you in constant conflict, or are you living like roommates? Your relationship should bring you connection and joy. Couples counseling with me can help you have healthy conversations that help you find solutions to the same old problems. Don't trust your relationship to anyone who isn't specifically trained to treat couples! I have 4 years of specialty training in specific couples models and I have over 30 years of experience. I help struggling couples reconnect and heal from wounding that took place in the relationship and in childhood.
Is your happily ever after turning into the war of the roses? Are you in constant conflict, or are you living like roommates? Your relationship should bring you connection and joy. Couples counseling with me can help you have healthy conversations that help you find solutions to the same old problems. Don't trust your relationship to anyone who isn't specifically trained to treat couples! I have 4 years of specialty training in specific couples models and I have over 30 years of experience. I help struggling couples reconnect and heal from wounding that took place in the relationship and in childhood.
(941) 977-2168 View (941) 977-2168

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Venice, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$137

Therapists in Venice, FL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Trauma and PTSD
75% Coping Skills
75% Self Esteem
70% Grief

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
65% Aetna
56% Optum

How Therapists in Venice, FL see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Venice?

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.