Therapists in SoCo, Austin, TX

Photo of Alisa Carr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alisa Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
As a psychotherapist in the South Austin area, I counsel adults, with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, trauma, and grief and loss. It is my desire to facilitate your transformation, healing, and growth toward wholeness. I will encourage, and often challenge, you to discover and listen to all aspects of yourself, enabling more authentic expression, expanded creativity and intuition, and connection to your life passion. I desire to create a physical and emotional space for you that is warm, accepting, and non-judgmental. I also work with clients as an InterSpiritual Guidess.
As a psychotherapist in the South Austin area, I counsel adults, with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, trauma, and grief and loss. It is my desire to facilitate your transformation, healing, and growth toward wholeness. I will encourage, and often challenge, you to discover and listen to all aspects of yourself, enabling more authentic expression, expanded creativity and intuition, and connection to your life passion. I desire to create a physical and emotional space for you that is warm, accepting, and non-judgmental. I also work with clients as an InterSpiritual Guidess.
(512) 337-4822 View (512) 337-4822
Photo of Gwendoline Courreges, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A
Gwendoline Courreges
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A
1 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
I work with people who feel stuck, caught in unfulfilling patterns, disconnected in relationships, or searching for something real in late-stage capitalist patriarchal society. When surface solutions don’t reach the root, therapy offers a space to be fully seen and understood. Together, we focus on deep insight and reframing—the kind of perspective shift that brings genuine relief. I'm not here to coddle but to empower you.
I work with people who feel stuck, caught in unfulfilling patterns, disconnected in relationships, or searching for something real in late-stage capitalist patriarchal society. When surface solutions don’t reach the root, therapy offers a space to be fully seen and understood. Together, we focus on deep insight and reframing—the kind of perspective shift that brings genuine relief. I'm not here to coddle but to empower you.
(512) 290-9443 View (512) 290-9443
Photo of Chloé Scogin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chloé Scogin
Pre-Licensed Professional
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
Whether you’re stepping into college life, figuring out your next move after graduation, or feeling stuck somewhere in between — you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with teens, college-aged students, and young women who are facing the pressures of keeping up in a world that doesn’t slow down. Together, we’ll explore what’s going on beneath the surface — anxiety, self-doubt, burnout, relationship struggles, identity questions — and build real tools to help you feel more grounded and confident in yourself.
Whether you’re stepping into college life, figuring out your next move after graduation, or feeling stuck somewhere in between — you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with teens, college-aged students, and young women who are facing the pressures of keeping up in a world that doesn’t slow down. Together, we’ll explore what’s going on beneath the surface — anxiety, self-doubt, burnout, relationship struggles, identity questions — and build real tools to help you feel more grounded and confident in yourself.
(737) 324-7624 View (737) 324-7624
Photo of Shanley McLaughlin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Shanley McLaughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
I strive to create a warm, nurturing, nonjudgmental space that is inclusive and collaborative, allowing us to explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Using evidence-based approaches as well as humor and compassion, my goal is to partner with my clients to empower them with tools and skills needed to confidently navigate life’s challenges. Together we will explore stressors, limiting beliefs, and past trauma that may be impeding you from reaching your full potential, while also exploring your unique strengths and abilities.
I strive to create a warm, nurturing, nonjudgmental space that is inclusive and collaborative, allowing us to explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Using evidence-based approaches as well as humor and compassion, my goal is to partner with my clients to empower them with tools and skills needed to confidently navigate life’s challenges. Together we will explore stressors, limiting beliefs, and past trauma that may be impeding you from reaching your full potential, while also exploring your unique strengths and abilities.
(737) 325-1095 View (737) 325-1095
Photo of Angela Funke, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS
Angela Funke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS
1 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
I work primarily from an blend of psychodynamic and experiential viewpoints. In this structure, therapy is primarily aimed at helping clients become aware of and make productive use of deeper thoughts and feelings under the surface. As humans, over the years we suppress and manage our emotions in order to cope with everyday life, however, it is only when we acknowledge and express these emotions, that we can rediscover a passion for life.
I work primarily from an blend of psychodynamic and experiential viewpoints. In this structure, therapy is primarily aimed at helping clients become aware of and make productive use of deeper thoughts and feelings under the surface. As humans, over the years we suppress and manage our emotions in order to cope with everyday life, however, it is only when we acknowledge and express these emotions, that we can rediscover a passion for life.
(512) 942-2828 View (512) 942-2828
Photo of Rudy Garza, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Rudy Garza
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
2 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. If you're reading this, you've realized something needs to change. Maybe you're exhausted from holding everything together, stuck in old patterns, or past experiences still have a tighter grip on you than you want to admit. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with individuals and couples dealing with stress, trauma histories, relationship challenges, life transitions, anger, neurodivergence, and more. My style is warm, direct when needed, and conversational. You deserve a therapist who shows up authentically, with empathy, curiosity, and always welcoming of humor.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. If you're reading this, you've realized something needs to change. Maybe you're exhausted from holding everything together, stuck in old patterns, or past experiences still have a tighter grip on you than you want to admit. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with individuals and couples dealing with stress, trauma histories, relationship challenges, life transitions, anger, neurodivergence, and more. My style is warm, direct when needed, and conversational. You deserve a therapist who shows up authentically, with empathy, curiosity, and always welcoming of humor.
(512) 229-9872 View (512) 229-9872
Photo of Kayla Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kayla Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
4 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
Are you or your child finding challenges in everyday life? Does it feel like everything is spinning around you? Do you feel like no one understands what you are going through? Cozy Cottage Counseling, PLLC, is a place where clients can go to feel refuge amongst emotional chaos. It is a non-judgmental space that offers clients the opportunity to engage in self-actualization. The journey to healing begins with you and it would be an honor to support you.
Are you or your child finding challenges in everyday life? Does it feel like everything is spinning around you? Do you feel like no one understands what you are going through? Cozy Cottage Counseling, PLLC, is a place where clients can go to feel refuge amongst emotional chaos. It is a non-judgmental space that offers clients the opportunity to engage in self-actualization. The journey to healing begins with you and it would be an honor to support you.
(210) 370-7409 View (210) 370-7409
Photo of Kayla Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kayla Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78741
Feeling stuck in the same painful cycle with yourself or your partner? I'm a trauma-informed therapist who will help you to heal the past that's creating obstacles for you in the present. I frequently work with couples, neurodivergent people, LGBT/queer folks, self described nerds and artists. I help my clients overcome anxiety and depression, meet their goals, improve self-esteem, recover from burnout and advocate for their boundaries & needs. When working with couples, I'm passionate about creating improved communication and awareness of unhelpful patterns (so we can break them!) leading to increased intimacy and friendship.
Feeling stuck in the same painful cycle with yourself or your partner? I'm a trauma-informed therapist who will help you to heal the past that's creating obstacles for you in the present. I frequently work with couples, neurodivergent people, LGBT/queer folks, self described nerds and artists. I help my clients overcome anxiety and depression, meet their goals, improve self-esteem, recover from burnout and advocate for their boundaries & needs. When working with couples, I'm passionate about creating improved communication and awareness of unhelpful patterns (so we can break them!) leading to increased intimacy and friendship.
(737) 510-4548 View (737) 510-4548
Photo of Jennifer Ann Escobedo, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Jennifer Ann Escobedo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
I’ve had the privilege to work with diverse populations, including those struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, life transitions, and other mental health concerns. I’m passionate about helping you navigate through any personal struggles, empowering you to develop coping strategies, and nurture your resilience. My therapeutic work encompasses empathy, compassion, honesty and active listening. To ensure you feel seen and heard, I aim to meet you exactly where you are in your healing journey. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy whether to confront traumatic experiences or everyday life stressors.
I’ve had the privilege to work with diverse populations, including those struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, life transitions, and other mental health concerns. I’m passionate about helping you navigate through any personal struggles, empowering you to develop coping strategies, and nurture your resilience. My therapeutic work encompasses empathy, compassion, honesty and active listening. To ensure you feel seen and heard, I aim to meet you exactly where you are in your healing journey. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy whether to confront traumatic experiences or everyday life stressors.
(737) 352-5927 View (737) 352-5927
Photo of Kasey Nightingale - Kasey Nightingale: Therapy for Queer & Trans folx , Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Kasey Nightingale: Therapy for Queer & Trans folx
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
2 Endorsed
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
You want more than coping—you want connection. You are tired of feeling stuck in the same emotional and relational patterns, even though you work hard to understand yourself. You may identify as LGBTQIA+ and long to feel truly seen, not explained away. Depression, relationship stress, or emotional exhaustion may be pulling at you. You want deeper relationships, steadier ground, and a life that feels more like your own—with insight, compassion, and room to breathe.
You want more than coping—you want connection. You are tired of feeling stuck in the same emotional and relational patterns, even though you work hard to understand yourself. You may identify as LGBTQIA+ and long to feel truly seen, not explained away. Depression, relationship stress, or emotional exhaustion may be pulling at you. You want deeper relationships, steadier ground, and a life that feels more like your own—with insight, compassion, and room to breathe.
(737) 283-2598 View (737) 283-2598
Photo of Steven Powell, MD
Steven Powell
Verified Verified
SoCo, Austin, TX 78745
Dr. Steven Powell graduated from University of Texas and attended Rush Medical College to complete his family medicine residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth. He has worked at Barrio Comprehensive Health Center in San Antonio, as Medical Director, as well as Austin Regional Clinic where he also served as a board member. Board certified in Family Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Texas Medical Association, Dr. Powell has had an interest and commitment to addiction treatment in primary care since 2008, treating hundreds of patients with medication assisted therapy.
Dr. Steven Powell graduated from University of Texas and attended Rush Medical College to complete his family medicine residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth. He has worked at Barrio Comprehensive Health Center in San Antonio, as Medical Director, as well as Austin Regional Clinic where he also served as a board member. Board certified in Family Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Texas Medical Association, Dr. Powell has had an interest and commitment to addiction treatment in primary care since 2008, treating hundreds of patients with medication assisted therapy.
(512) 598-4608 View (512) 598-4608
Photo of Shawn C Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Shawn C Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe true healing involves hard-work, a dose of self-awareness and the diligence to see oneself as being capable of it. Let me help you get to that place using congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding. As a Client Centered Therapist, I seek to assist you with addressing concerns, acknowledging needs and identifying goals for mental wellness. Although I specialize in assisting People of Color and the LGBTQIA+, the clients I accept range from ages 13-77+ in different levels of severity, nationalities and genders. I am also familiar with spirituality and alternative healing practices if needed.
I believe true healing involves hard-work, a dose of self-awareness and the diligence to see oneself as being capable of it. Let me help you get to that place using congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding. As a Client Centered Therapist, I seek to assist you with addressing concerns, acknowledging needs and identifying goals for mental wellness. Although I specialize in assisting People of Color and the LGBTQIA+, the clients I accept range from ages 13-77+ in different levels of severity, nationalities and genders. I am also familiar with spirituality and alternative healing practices if needed.
(214) 884-4530 View (214) 884-4530
Photo of Shaundrella Gandy, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Shaundrella Gandy
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve done the coping skills. You’ve read the books. You’re still tired. I work with adults and couples who feel stuck or burned out, especially neurodivergent folks who look fine on the outside but are running on fumes. Together, we unpack the past, untangle relationship patterns, and help you reconnect with your most authentic self.
You’ve done the coping skills. You’ve read the books. You’re still tired. I work with adults and couples who feel stuck or burned out, especially neurodivergent folks who look fine on the outside but are running on fumes. Together, we unpack the past, untangle relationship patterns, and help you reconnect with your most authentic self.
(512) 890-2002 View (512) 890-2002
Photo of Jessica Ann Santos, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jessica Ann Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Jessica, a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. For the past 8 years, I've had the privilege of supporting clients from all walks of life in both agency and private practice settings. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship stress, and identity transitions. In addition to traditional therapy, I have extensive experience as a crisis therapist, supporting individuals and families in their most vulnerable moments. I bring a calm, grounded presence to situations of acute stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm.
Hi! I'm Jessica, a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. For the past 8 years, I've had the privilege of supporting clients from all walks of life in both agency and private practice settings. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship stress, and identity transitions. In addition to traditional therapy, I have extensive experience as a crisis therapist, supporting individuals and families in their most vulnerable moments. I bring a calm, grounded presence to situations of acute stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm.
(956) 253-2270 View (956) 253-2270
Photo of Jo Vonna Lee Carter - JoVonna Carter, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
JoVonna Carter, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with years of experience serving preteens, teens and adults. My approach is a direct and solution-focused approach to change. My goal is to help you discover viable solutions to day to day problems and to achieve meaningful results in the shortest amount of time possible. Being a highly personable counselor, I will meet you where you are and will provide you with the support and tools you need to make necessary adjustments in your life to achieve results quickly.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with years of experience serving preteens, teens and adults. My approach is a direct and solution-focused approach to change. My goal is to help you discover viable solutions to day to day problems and to achieve meaningful results in the shortest amount of time possible. Being a highly personable counselor, I will meet you where you are and will provide you with the support and tools you need to make necessary adjustments in your life to achieve results quickly.
(737) 264-7569 View (737) 264-7569
Photo of Stacy L Covington, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Stacy L Covington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Every life transition pushes us to change. Nobody asks if we’re ready. It’s non negotiable. Tragedy? That happens to “them”. “We don’t know those ppl, we don’t even know people that know those people -the victims & their families.”. Then one day it comes for our loved ones; for us.
Every life transition pushes us to change. Nobody asks if we’re ready. It’s non negotiable. Tragedy? That happens to “them”. “We don’t know those ppl, we don’t even know people that know those people -the victims & their families.”. Then one day it comes for our loved ones; for us.
(512) 379-6376 View (512) 379-6376
Photo of Jonathan J Caballero, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PMP, LPC-S
Jonathan J Caballero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PMP, LPC-S
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Jonathan Caballero and I am licensed to practice independently in Texas (LPC-S) and Arizona (LPC). I am skilled at assisting clients navigate through major life changes and internal struggles; providing skills and support throughout their journey.
My name is Jonathan Caballero and I am licensed to practice independently in Texas (LPC-S) and Arizona (LPC). I am skilled at assisting clients navigate through major life changes and internal struggles; providing skills and support throughout their journey.
(956) 477-4373 View (956) 477-4373
Photo of Joelle D Nagel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Joelle D Nagel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My ideal client, of any age, feels overwhelmed by life’s challenges and seeks support. They may be a child struggling socially, a teen facing anxiety, an adult coping with trauma, or a family needing guidance. Many deal with behavioral issues, executive functioning struggles, or special education and mental health concerns. No matter their story, my clients want to regain control, build coping skills, and improve well-being. I’m here to walk alongside them on that journey.
My ideal client, of any age, feels overwhelmed by life’s challenges and seeks support. They may be a child struggling socially, a teen facing anxiety, an adult coping with trauma, or a family needing guidance. Many deal with behavioral issues, executive functioning struggles, or special education and mental health concerns. No matter their story, my clients want to regain control, build coping skills, and improve well-being. I’m here to walk alongside them on that journey.
(737) 295-1455 View (737) 295-1455
Photo of Kimberly Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Kimberly Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck in a high-conflict relationship or struggling with patterns of behavior that don't feel like you? I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of toxic relationships. My practice is dedicated to helping those whose behaviors are not aligned with their beliefs about themselves, including both survivors of abuse and those seeking to change harmful patterns, with a focus on healing. Through our work together, you can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach that allows us to explore your relationships honestly and safely.
Are you feeling stuck in a high-conflict relationship or struggling with patterns of behavior that don't feel like you? I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of toxic relationships. My practice is dedicated to helping those whose behaviors are not aligned with their beliefs about themselves, including both survivors of abuse and those seeking to change harmful patterns, with a focus on healing. Through our work together, you can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach that allows us to explore your relationships honestly and safely.
(512) 942-2630 View (512) 942-2630
Photo of Jarred Wellington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Jarred Wellington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel heavy sometimes, and you don’t have to carry it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported—just as you are. I’ll show up with warmth, honesty, and curiosity as we work together to untangle the hard stuff, reconnect you with your strengths, and help you move forward with clarity and purpose. Whether you're navigating anxiety, family dynamics, past wounds, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to walk alongside you—no judgment, just care.
Life can feel heavy sometimes, and you don’t have to carry it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported—just as you are. I’ll show up with warmth, honesty, and curiosity as we work together to untangle the hard stuff, reconnect you with your strengths, and help you move forward with clarity and purpose. Whether you're navigating anxiety, family dynamics, past wounds, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to walk alongside you—no judgment, just care.
(737) 312-5996 View (737) 312-5996

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in SoCo, Austin, TX

20+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in SoCo, Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
74% Relationship Issues
74% Depression
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem
52% ADHD
52% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
58% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in SoCo, Austin, TX see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in SoCo, Austin?

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.