Therapists in Brenham, TX

Photo of Morgan Winkelmann, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Morgan Winkelmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Brenham, TX 77833
Morgan’s work with Young Life has given her experience working with adolescents and the specific challenges they can struggle with, including: identity, self-image, relationships, self-harm, parental divorce, and abuse. She also has a heart for girls and women who have been sexually abused or assaulted. Morgan believes that, with her faith as her foundation and strength, she is able to create an environment of both love and safety where a variety of clients are able to grow and heal.
Morgan’s work with Young Life has given her experience working with adolescents and the specific challenges they can struggle with, including: identity, self-image, relationships, self-harm, parental divorce, and abuse. She also has a heart for girls and women who have been sexually abused or assaulted. Morgan believes that, with her faith as her foundation and strength, she is able to create an environment of both love and safety where a variety of clients are able to grow and heal.
(979) 459-7262 View (979) 459-7262
Photo of Tina Bowne Hart, MA, BCC, NCC
Tina Bowne Hart
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you a college student with ADHD or Anxiety who could use support to learn how to get and keep yourself on track in school and life? Are you a professional needing to assess your productivity at work? Whether you have been diagnosed with ADHD or you see yourself as having a disorganized style, I will show you how to identify your executive function weaknesses and you will no longer see them as personal shortcomings. You will receive quality training to overcome those weaknesses with routines and structure designed specifically toward your unique situation.
Are you a college student with ADHD or Anxiety who could use support to learn how to get and keep yourself on track in school and life? Are you a professional needing to assess your productivity at work? Whether you have been diagnosed with ADHD or you see yourself as having a disorganized style, I will show you how to identify your executive function weaknesses and you will no longer see them as personal shortcomings. You will receive quality training to overcome those weaknesses with routines and structure designed specifically toward your unique situation.
(832) 463-5694 View (832) 463-5694
Photo of Julie Haferkamp - Brighter Horizons,PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brighter Horizons,PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
Deciding to seek therapy is a positive step in your journey. At times through the counseling process there could be emotional discomfort due to remembering unpleasant events. The outcome of your treatment tremendously depends on your willingness to engage in the process. There are no miracle cures and specific results are not guaranteed. I cannot promise that your behavior or circumstances will change. I can promise to support you and do my very best to understand your needs.
Deciding to seek therapy is a positive step in your journey. At times through the counseling process there could be emotional discomfort due to remembering unpleasant events. The outcome of your treatment tremendously depends on your willingness to engage in the process. There are no miracle cures and specific results are not guaranteed. I cannot promise that your behavior or circumstances will change. I can promise to support you and do my very best to understand your needs.
(936) 287-3244 View (936) 287-3244
Photo of Theresa Fawvor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, Fawvor
Theresa Fawvor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, Fawvor
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
Not accepting new clients
I am Clinical Therapist committed to supporting individuals on their emotional healing journey. Emergency appointments accepted. My approach focuses on targeting behaviors, habits, and beliefs that disrupts one's ability to manage life roles and/or blocks personal growth and goal achievement. Consider three simple truths that I hope will add light and grace to your journey: 1. People who want the best for you want you to be your best. 2. Be a student of service and share your learnings with others. 3. Each day is a gift, practice gratitude. When individuals seek wellbeing, their learnings enrich their families and communities.
I am Clinical Therapist committed to supporting individuals on their emotional healing journey. Emergency appointments accepted. My approach focuses on targeting behaviors, habits, and beliefs that disrupts one's ability to manage life roles and/or blocks personal growth and goal achievement. Consider three simple truths that I hope will add light and grace to your journey: 1. People who want the best for you want you to be your best. 2. Be a student of service and share your learnings with others. 3. Each day is a gift, practice gratitude. When individuals seek wellbeing, their learnings enrich their families and communities.
(979) 406-7159 View (979) 406-7159
Photo of Cliff Robertson Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD, LPC
Cliff Robertson Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD, LPC
Brenham, TX 77833
One of the greatest compliments I have ever received from a client is that I am easy to talk with - they felt safe. I truly want to hear your story and the challenges you are facing. After a lifetime of facing challenges - college, military, family, loss, relationships and more, I believe that I am uniquely suited to be of value in your journey. Let's talk!
One of the greatest compliments I have ever received from a client is that I am easy to talk with - they felt safe. I truly want to hear your story and the challenges you are facing. After a lifetime of facing challenges - college, military, family, loss, relationships and more, I believe that I am uniquely suited to be of value in your journey. Let's talk!
(979) 426-7228 View (979) 426-7228
Photo of Helene Jobe, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Helene Jobe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
8 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
I am passionate about empowering individuals struggling with Substance Use, Relationship Issues, and Trauma to take charge of their own lives. My approach centers on healing negative beliefs about yourself, teaching practical coping skills, and shifting unhelpful thought patterns so clients can live to their full potential. I have more than five years of experience working in different clinical settings. I am specialized in assisting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, alcohol use disorder, substance use disorder, sexual trauma, pregnancy loss, abortion, grief, and other significant life hardships.
I am passionate about empowering individuals struggling with Substance Use, Relationship Issues, and Trauma to take charge of their own lives. My approach centers on healing negative beliefs about yourself, teaching practical coping skills, and shifting unhelpful thought patterns so clients can live to their full potential. I have more than five years of experience working in different clinical settings. I am specialized in assisting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, alcohol use disorder, substance use disorder, sexual trauma, pregnancy loss, abortion, grief, and other significant life hardships.
(979) 353-2085 View (979) 353-2085
Photo of Beth Burgmeyer - Natural Lifemanship Counseling and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Natural Lifemanship Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brenham, TX 77833
At Natural Lifemanship Counseling & Wellness, we believe healing happens through connection—with ourselves, with others, and with the natural world. Step outside the traditional office setting and into our wooded pastures, where you can process trauma, navigate depression or anxiety, and work through grief, stress, relationship struggles or life transitions. Sit by a quiet pond or engage with one of our equine partners as part of your healing journey. Rooted in an experiential and holistic approach, we walk alongside adults, children, and adolescents, offering care that nurtures the whole person.
At Natural Lifemanship Counseling & Wellness, we believe healing happens through connection—with ourselves, with others, and with the natural world. Step outside the traditional office setting and into our wooded pastures, where you can process trauma, navigate depression or anxiety, and work through grief, stress, relationship struggles or life transitions. Sit by a quiet pond or engage with one of our equine partners as part of your healing journey. Rooted in an experiential and holistic approach, we walk alongside adults, children, and adolescents, offering care that nurtures the whole person.
(979) 481-8316 View (979) 481-8316
Photo of Beth Burgmeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Beth Burgmeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
I’m passionate about helping individuals who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, or stressful life changes. It takes courage to ask for help, and it’s a privilege to walk beside you on your journey toward healing, peace, and balance in your life. As a client-centered therapist, I will partner with you and provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to tell your story. Every person deserves to be heard and understood. No single approach is right for every person, so I have been trained in a range of modalities. In my sixteen years of experience, I’ve worked with adults, adolescents, and children.
I’m passionate about helping individuals who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, or stressful life changes. It takes courage to ask for help, and it’s a privilege to walk beside you on your journey toward healing, peace, and balance in your life. As a client-centered therapist, I will partner with you and provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to tell your story. Every person deserves to be heard and understood. No single approach is right for every person, so I have been trained in a range of modalities. In my sixteen years of experience, I’ve worked with adults, adolescents, and children.
(979) 401-4401 View (979) 401-4401
Photo of Janet Mueller, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Janet Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
My goal is to help clients identify and more successfully manage challenges that interfere with their daily quality of life. Together we build new habits and thought processes that create balance, direction and hope. I partner with my clients as we assess issues, set goals and work together to achieve change. In addition, I have specialized training in trauma utilizing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.)
My goal is to help clients identify and more successfully manage challenges that interfere with their daily quality of life. Together we build new habits and thought processes that create balance, direction and hope. I partner with my clients as we assess issues, set goals and work together to achieve change. In addition, I have specialized training in trauma utilizing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.)
(281) 853-8198 View (281) 853-8198
Photo of Kathy Pardue, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Kathy Pardue
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Brenham, TX 77833
Reaching out is hard after deep hurts and failures, but I see people risk being vulnerable and ready for change. They are tired of confusion and depression from past wounds and personal failures. Anxiety is relieved soon after realizing they are not alone and new options are possible. Encouragement happens quickly, and the isolation is broken. We identify tools for change to bring emotional freedom and energy for new goals.
Reaching out is hard after deep hurts and failures, but I see people risk being vulnerable and ready for change. They are tired of confusion and depression from past wounds and personal failures. Anxiety is relieved soon after realizing they are not alone and new options are possible. Encouragement happens quickly, and the isolation is broken. We identify tools for change to bring emotional freedom and energy for new goals.
(979) 428-2086 View (979) 428-2086
Photo of Meagan Butler - Desert Road Ministries, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, BCN
Desert Road Ministries
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, BCN
Online Only
Desert Road Ministries exists to enrich the spiritual and mental health of ministry leaders, their families, and communities. Our passion is to serve people involved in ministry who are struggling to care for themselves while working in a high demand industry. We provide a shame-free space to work through issues that may feel off limits for ministry leaders to struggle with in their church home. The rewards of a ministry-filled life are able to grow when we know we are valued and protected. Our desire is to enhance freedom and authenticity in our clients so they can serve God with their own unique giftings and personalities.
Desert Road Ministries exists to enrich the spiritual and mental health of ministry leaders, their families, and communities. Our passion is to serve people involved in ministry who are struggling to care for themselves while working in a high demand industry. We provide a shame-free space to work through issues that may feel off limits for ministry leaders to struggle with in their church home. The rewards of a ministry-filled life are able to grow when we know we are valued and protected. Our desire is to enhance freedom and authenticity in our clients so they can serve God with their own unique giftings and personalities.
(979) 317-6591 View (979) 317-6591
Photo of Shannon L Johnson - Chayah Ministries, Inc. DBA Chayah Care, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Chayah Ministries, Inc. DBA Chayah Care
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Brenham, TX 77833
Chayah therapists strive to help each client find their path to healing through acknowledging, respecting, embracing, and creating space for you to come to understand yourself and those in your immediate support system. Each treatment plan is unique to the client and sessions are developed based on individual needs and circumstances. We specialize in helping people affected by trauma, including Veterans and their families and victims of human trafficking.
Chayah therapists strive to help each client find their path to healing through acknowledging, respecting, embracing, and creating space for you to come to understand yourself and those in your immediate support system. Each treatment plan is unique to the client and sessions are developed based on individual needs and circumstances. We specialize in helping people affected by trauma, including Veterans and their families and victims of human trafficking.
(936) 937-2966 View (936) 937-2966
Photo of Nelson Thomas, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nelson Thomas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Brenham, TX 77833
My name is Nelson Thomas. I recently graduated the Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Lamar University in Dec of 2025. I currently am working towards securing my license and seeing clients at our Brenham office of Brazos Valley Mental Health and Wellness and online under the supervision of Sherry Haferkamp-Watson, Psy.D. I take clients of all backgrounds, ages ten and up. My hours are flexible to accommodate most individual schedules to include both day and evening hours. Currently, I see clients every weekday except Thursday, and Saturdays for emergency situations.
My name is Nelson Thomas. I recently graduated the Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Lamar University in Dec of 2025. I currently am working towards securing my license and seeing clients at our Brenham office of Brazos Valley Mental Health and Wellness and online under the supervision of Sherry Haferkamp-Watson, Psy.D. I take clients of all backgrounds, ages ten and up. My hours are flexible to accommodate most individual schedules to include both day and evening hours. Currently, I see clients every weekday except Thursday, and Saturdays for emergency situations.
(979) 205-8600 View (979) 205-8600
Photo of Donna Tomlinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Donna Tomlinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brenham, TX 77833
I have been in practice for many years focusing on using techniques like EMDR and hypnosis that help my clients move through their issues more quickly than using talk therapy alone. Anxiety is one of my specialties. It is often connected with depression, grief, and addictions. Those are also areas I have a great many years of experience in working with. I have recently become a Medicare provider because I can relate to the many issues that come with aging.
I have been in practice for many years focusing on using techniques like EMDR and hypnosis that help my clients move through their issues more quickly than using talk therapy alone. Anxiety is one of my specialties. It is often connected with depression, grief, and addictions. Those are also areas I have a great many years of experience in working with. I have recently become a Medicare provider because I can relate to the many issues that come with aging.
(281) 816-5202 View (281) 816-5202
Photo of Robert Gaertner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Robert Gaertner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Liberty University, and have been practicing for three years. I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship struggles (family and couples), addiction, and anger management. I'm experienced working with individuals that have experienced past trauma, struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, stress and those just needing to be heard and understood.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Liberty University, and have been practicing for three years. I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship struggles (family and couples), addiction, and anger management. I'm experienced working with individuals that have experienced past trauma, struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, stress and those just needing to be heard and understood.
(979) 553-7138 View (979) 553-7138
Photo of Dr. Mary Lyles - Brenham Family Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Brenham Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Brenham, TX 77833
Your life journey is unique & I honor that truth in my practice. Through 30 years of experience, I've learned that real understanding comes from listening without judgment to your story and struggles. A Safe Space to Be Heard: I listen carefully to understand your challenges, goals & aspirations. Together, we'll create a clear path forward. Honest, Direct Guidance: You'll receive straightforward feedback designed to move you toward real change, along with practical tools & exercises to support your healing journey. I offer evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Your life journey is unique & I honor that truth in my practice. Through 30 years of experience, I've learned that real understanding comes from listening without judgment to your story and struggles. A Safe Space to Be Heard: I listen carefully to understand your challenges, goals & aspirations. Together, we'll create a clear path forward. Honest, Direct Guidance: You'll receive straightforward feedback designed to move you toward real change, along with practical tools & exercises to support your healing journey. I offer evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
(979) 426-7919 View (979) 426-7919
Photo of Shelly-Ann James-Perelion - Seraphinite Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LPC-S, CSC
Seraphinite Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LPC-S, CSC
Brenham, TX 77833
Not accepting new clients
Many of us today are struggling to navigate what seems to be a chaotic world, but I am here positioned to guide you through your fears, traumas, anxieties, depression and other mental health challenges you currently face. I am passionate about helping children, individuals and couples understand their core self and how they relate to others. In leaning towards a Cognitive Behavior and a Solution Focused approach to counseling, my goal is to help my clients release negative blocks, find a sense of meaning to their lives, foster a sense of hope and inevitably help them to determine how to live their best lives.
Many of us today are struggling to navigate what seems to be a chaotic world, but I am here positioned to guide you through your fears, traumas, anxieties, depression and other mental health challenges you currently face. I am passionate about helping children, individuals and couples understand their core self and how they relate to others. In leaning towards a Cognitive Behavior and a Solution Focused approach to counseling, my goal is to help my clients release negative blocks, find a sense of meaning to their lives, foster a sense of hope and inevitably help them to determine how to live their best lives.
(281) 843-4441 View (281) 843-4441
Photo of Kaci Patranella, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Kaci Patranella
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
4 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
Everybody can face different challenges in life. Let me help you or your loved one navigate those challenges in a safe environment. For my clients, my goal is to create an open, non-judgemental space where everybody feels welcome at all times. I hope to create a safe space where clients can share each challenge and we can work together to seek positive changes.
Everybody can face different challenges in life. Let me help you or your loved one navigate those challenges in a safe environment. For my clients, my goal is to create an open, non-judgemental space where everybody feels welcome at all times. I hope to create a safe space where clients can share each challenge and we can work together to seek positive changes.
(979) 353-2200 View (979) 353-2200
Photo of Terry-Ann Moses, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Terry-Ann Moses
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Aloha! My name is Terry-Ann Moses, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). While I am in Kauai, HI, I can see clients across the State via telehealth. My approach to therapy is reflected by the quote “Many hands make light work”, This quote reminds us that the load we carry is lighter when shared, especially in an empathetic, supportive, and nurturing environment. I primarily work with individuals and couples to manage anxiety, depression, and other major life stressors. I work with a diverse group of clients (adults 18 years and over).
Aloha! My name is Terry-Ann Moses, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). While I am in Kauai, HI, I can see clients across the State via telehealth. My approach to therapy is reflected by the quote “Many hands make light work”, This quote reminds us that the load we carry is lighter when shared, especially in an empathetic, supportive, and nurturing environment. I primarily work with individuals and couples to manage anxiety, depression, and other major life stressors. I work with a diverse group of clients (adults 18 years and over).
(936) 279-2413 View (936) 279-2413
Photo of Rebecca S. Wachsler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Rebecca S. Wachsler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Brenham, TX 77833
Life can be challenging and at some point, those “challenges” can be a bit more than we know how to tackle on our own. Whether you are simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, focusing on managing relationships, or needing support to get through a life-altering crisis or traumatic event, therapy can help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bi-polar disorder, grief or any other issue, there is hope. You may feel hesitant at first to seek assistance, but once you do, you will feel more confident knowing you are taking the beginning steps to a better life and more improved you.
Life can be challenging and at some point, those “challenges” can be a bit more than we know how to tackle on our own. Whether you are simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, focusing on managing relationships, or needing support to get through a life-altering crisis or traumatic event, therapy can help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bi-polar disorder, grief or any other issue, there is hope. You may feel hesitant at first to seek assistance, but once you do, you will feel more confident knowing you are taking the beginning steps to a better life and more improved you.
(979) 661-8307 View (979) 661-8307

See more therapy options for Brenham

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brenham, TX

40+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Brenham, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills
64% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Brenham, TX see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Brenham?

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.