Therapists in Dallas, TX

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Photo of Maricarmen Cruz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Maricarmen Cruz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do your racing thoughts never give you a moment of peace? Do you feel judged when you try to explain to others how your past has impacted you? Someone brings up an innocuous topic and suddenly you’re panicking, heart pounding, looking for an exit. You may not even know what exactly is triggering you, but you find yourself searching for somewhere you can feel safe. As my client, you're safe with me. There are no judgements or unrealistic expectations when you step into my office. My mission as a therapist is to walk alongside you through the struggles you're facing in order to accomplish the goals which are most important to you.
Do your racing thoughts never give you a moment of peace? Do you feel judged when you try to explain to others how your past has impacted you? Someone brings up an innocuous topic and suddenly you’re panicking, heart pounding, looking for an exit. You may not even know what exactly is triggering you, but you find yourself searching for somewhere you can feel safe. As my client, you're safe with me. There are no judgements or unrealistic expectations when you step into my office. My mission as a therapist is to walk alongside you through the struggles you're facing in order to accomplish the goals which are most important to you.
(469) 689-2297 View (469) 689-2297
Wendy Weltman Palmer, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dallas, TX 75231
Is there something missing from your life? Are you seeking to mend a broken heart or a broken family? Do you sense that you could be getting more out of your work or your personal relationships? These are questions that I as an individual, couple and family therapist I am equipped to help you answer.
Is there something missing from your life? Are you seeking to mend a broken heart or a broken family? Do you sense that you could be getting more out of your work or your personal relationships? These are questions that I as an individual, couple and family therapist I am equipped to help you answer.
(214) 483-1100 View (214) 483-1100
Photo of Amanda Phipps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Phipps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My ideal client is a high-functioning woman who has spent years managing everything on her own — but internally feels exhausted, anxious, or like something unresolved is quietly running the show. She's self-aware and has likely tried to think her way through it. What she hasn't been able to do is change the patterns — the over-responsibility, the emotional shutdown, the difficulty asking for what she needs. She's ready to stop coping and start actually healing.
My ideal client is a high-functioning woman who has spent years managing everything on her own — but internally feels exhausted, anxious, or like something unresolved is quietly running the show. She's self-aware and has likely tried to think her way through it. What she hasn't been able to do is change the patterns — the over-responsibility, the emotional shutdown, the difficulty asking for what she needs. She's ready to stop coping and start actually healing.
(682) 327-5041 View (682) 327-5041
Photo of Maria Estela Ayala - Saber Living Counseling Services, LPC-Associate, MS, LPC-A
Saber Living Counseling Services
LPC-Associate, MS, LPC-A
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate with experience working with adolescents who struggle with symptoms of depression and anxiety related to school challenges and/or unexpected life events. Additionally, I have experience working with women in all stages who have experienced emotional abuse, who struggle in relationships and who have experienced a chaotic childhood. I enjoy working with women who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and/or complex trauma. I particularly enjoy working with first-generation Americans and multilingual individuals and families, as I, myself, speak Spanish and French.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate with experience working with adolescents who struggle with symptoms of depression and anxiety related to school challenges and/or unexpected life events. Additionally, I have experience working with women in all stages who have experienced emotional abuse, who struggle in relationships and who have experienced a chaotic childhood. I enjoy working with women who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and/or complex trauma. I particularly enjoy working with first-generation Americans and multilingual individuals and families, as I, myself, speak Spanish and French.
(469) 658-4469 View (469) 658-4469
Photo of Nikki Tepecik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nikki Tepecik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dallas, TX 75248
I’m so glad you’re here. I know that beginning this journey is often the most difficult part, but you’ve made it to this point and that is something to be proud of. I would be honored to get to walk this path with you. I can’t promise you that it will always be easy, but I will do everything I can to support, encourage and reassure you while we challenge the thoughts, ideas and emotions that are weighing you down, together. You don’t have to continue to carry them on your own. I don't intend to tell you what to do or what you need. I believe you already have those answers.
I’m so glad you’re here. I know that beginning this journey is often the most difficult part, but you’ve made it to this point and that is something to be proud of. I would be honored to get to walk this path with you. I can’t promise you that it will always be easy, but I will do everything I can to support, encourage and reassure you while we challenge the thoughts, ideas and emotions that are weighing you down, together. You don’t have to continue to carry them on your own. I don't intend to tell you what to do or what you need. I believe you already have those answers.
(469) 772-8790 View (469) 772-8790
Photo of Tyhesia Simpson-Van Beek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tyhesia Simpson-Van Beek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, my name is Tyhesia Washington, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas, D.C., and Maryland. I am deeply interested in and committed to helping people work through the complexities of life. So many things happen to us that are outside our control and impact how we view ourselves, the world, and the people around us. Sometimes, those situations cause scars that band-aid solutions can't fix. I am here to help you navigate those situations and the scars left behind in a way that focuses on collaboration and healing.
Hello, my name is Tyhesia Washington, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas, D.C., and Maryland. I am deeply interested in and committed to helping people work through the complexities of life. So many things happen to us that are outside our control and impact how we view ourselves, the world, and the people around us. Sometimes, those situations cause scars that band-aid solutions can't fix. I am here to help you navigate those situations and the scars left behind in a way that focuses on collaboration and healing.
(469) 589-7440 View (469) 589-7440
Photo of Erica Zilbermann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Erica Zilbermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Dallas, TX 75243
Erica Zilbermann, LCSW, provides compassionate and results-driven therapy to adults in Texas, offering both individual and group therapy. She specializes in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, helping them navigate challenges with evidence-based interventions. With years of experience working in inpatient psychiatric settings, she has extensive expertise in working with individuals facing severe mental health conditions, including psychosis and bipolar disorder.Erica Zilbermann, LCSW, provides compassionate and results-driven therapy to adults in Texas, offering both individual and group
Erica Zilbermann, LCSW, provides compassionate and results-driven therapy to adults in Texas, offering both individual and group therapy. She specializes in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, helping them navigate challenges with evidence-based interventions. With years of experience working in inpatient psychiatric settings, she has extensive expertise in working with individuals facing severe mental health conditions, including psychosis and bipolar disorder.Erica Zilbermann, LCSW, provides compassionate and results-driven therapy to adults in Texas, offering both individual and group
(469) 402-4527 View (469) 402-4527
Photo of Sumaiya Ahmed - Zenergy Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Zenergy Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
How can therapy help me? What can you tell me that I don’t already know? These are common thoughts for many people considering therapy. Society often teaches us that emotions are uncomfortable or “yucky,” making it difficult to face them head-on. So what can therapy do that truly benefits you? I believe therapy is not about the therapist telling you who you are; it’s about exploring what’s holding you back from reaching your full potential.
How can therapy help me? What can you tell me that I don’t already know? These are common thoughts for many people considering therapy. Society often teaches us that emotions are uncomfortable or “yucky,” making it difficult to face them head-on. So what can therapy do that truly benefits you? I believe therapy is not about the therapist telling you who you are; it’s about exploring what’s holding you back from reaching your full potential.
(972) 778-8009 View (972) 778-8009
Photo of Kristen Boisrond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Kristen Boisrond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Online Only
Are you facing a life challenging event? Are you at a crossroad and don't know where to begin? Perhaps you're contemplating divorce, have a newly diagnosed chronic illness, or caring for aging parents. Do you need help with balancing your home life, work, and family? I'm ready to meet you where you are, by hearing you, while providing genuine and sincere therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker, with over 20 years of supporting individuals and families in life transitions. My heart's desire is to provide a safe, warm, and nonjudgmental space that creates an environment where clients are free to express themselves.
Are you facing a life challenging event? Are you at a crossroad and don't know where to begin? Perhaps you're contemplating divorce, have a newly diagnosed chronic illness, or caring for aging parents. Do you need help with balancing your home life, work, and family? I'm ready to meet you where you are, by hearing you, while providing genuine and sincere therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker, with over 20 years of supporting individuals and families in life transitions. My heart's desire is to provide a safe, warm, and nonjudgmental space that creates an environment where clients are free to express themselves.
(469) 218-9992 View (469) 218-9992
Photo of Marvin K Lucas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, Author
Marvin K Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, Author
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 20 years of dedicated support for individuals in relationships, I have identified three fundamental "C's" essential for thriving relationships: Communication, Conflict, and Confidence (Trust). Drawing on more than 30 years of marriage, I have a deep understanding of the complexities of nurturing intimacy. This understanding inspired my latest work, "Mixed to Match," a series of books tailored for those seeking companionship or in a committed relationship. I also specialize in stress, anxiety and anger management. Go to my website mklcounseling:com and set up a free 15 minute consultation.
With over 20 years of dedicated support for individuals in relationships, I have identified three fundamental "C's" essential for thriving relationships: Communication, Conflict, and Confidence (Trust). Drawing on more than 30 years of marriage, I have a deep understanding of the complexities of nurturing intimacy. This understanding inspired my latest work, "Mixed to Match," a series of books tailored for those seeking companionship or in a committed relationship. I also specialize in stress, anxiety and anger management. Go to my website mklcounseling:com and set up a free 15 minute consultation.
(469) 966-8120 View (469) 966-8120
Photo of Annalisa Blackham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Annalisa Blackham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75209
Waitlist for new clients
Life is complex – often filled with positive experiences and also times of facing challenges. At times, it can feel overwhelming to manage some of those challenges on your own, and therapy can be a great source of support. I seek to create a space where you can understand more about yourself, the current challenges you are facing, and feel empowered in reaching your personal goals, hopes, and dreams. Therapy is most beneficial when you feel a sense of partnership and ownership in your process, from the first meeting, in setting your goals for therapy, and in setting a pace that supports your needs, healing, and growth.
Life is complex – often filled with positive experiences and also times of facing challenges. At times, it can feel overwhelming to manage some of those challenges on your own, and therapy can be a great source of support. I seek to create a space where you can understand more about yourself, the current challenges you are facing, and feel empowered in reaching your personal goals, hopes, and dreams. Therapy is most beneficial when you feel a sense of partnership and ownership in your process, from the first meeting, in setting your goals for therapy, and in setting a pace that supports your needs, healing, and growth.
(469) 715-4206 View (469) 715-4206
Photo of Stephanie Denise McVea, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Stephanie Denise McVea
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Counseling is the process of understanding how our personal experiences influence who we are. Because many aspects of one’s life may be explored, including childhood experiences, the process of counseling may feel uncomfortable and intrusive, at times. However, it is important to trust the process and know that every counseling session will not feel good. There are times that as a client, you may feel sad or hurt; you may be excited and feel happy; you may be confused and feel hopeless. However, if you trust the process, you will hopefully learn something new about yourself. Thus, leading to fulfillment in your life.
Counseling is the process of understanding how our personal experiences influence who we are. Because many aspects of one’s life may be explored, including childhood experiences, the process of counseling may feel uncomfortable and intrusive, at times. However, it is important to trust the process and know that every counseling session will not feel good. There are times that as a client, you may feel sad or hurt; you may be excited and feel happy; you may be confused and feel hopeless. However, if you trust the process, you will hopefully learn something new about yourself. Thus, leading to fulfillment in your life.
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Photo of Abby Hartman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Abby Hartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Located in Dallas, Texas. I am a ketamine assisted psychotherapist specialized in trauma. I graduated from Tarleton State University with a bachelor of science in Psychology. I then attended Southern Methodist University and graduated with a Master of Science in Counseling. Additionally I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and treat those who have experienced Trauma. I utilize Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which allows me to effectively treat many kinds of trauma as well as a wide variety of other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Located in Dallas, Texas. I am a ketamine assisted psychotherapist specialized in trauma. I graduated from Tarleton State University with a bachelor of science in Psychology. I then attended Southern Methodist University and graduated with a Master of Science in Counseling. Additionally I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and treat those who have experienced Trauma. I utilize Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which allows me to effectively treat many kinds of trauma as well as a wide variety of other issues.
(214) 833-9651 View (214) 833-9651
Photo of Christine Borelli, PhD
Christine Borelli
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75202
Offices in TX, FL and New York. Telehealth services available.
Offices in TX, FL and New York. Telehealth services available.
(469) 256-7446 View (469) 256-7446
Photo of Doug Chisholm, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Doug Chisholm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
I honestly enjoy caring for people, animals, and the world we share. I help create open, curious environments with my patients where we learn and grow together. I think people are fascinating and unique. Unfortunately, there are no "quick fixes" that bring about instant, dramatic healing. Healing is gradual, organic, and takes time. I love working with people who are motivated to improve their lives. Therapy is for everyone. Whether you're in a very low, desperate place or in a reasonably good place, we can find ways to make your existence more enjoyable and fulfilling. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
I honestly enjoy caring for people, animals, and the world we share. I help create open, curious environments with my patients where we learn and grow together. I think people are fascinating and unique. Unfortunately, there are no "quick fixes" that bring about instant, dramatic healing. Healing is gradual, organic, and takes time. I love working with people who are motivated to improve their lives. Therapy is for everyone. Whether you're in a very low, desperate place or in a reasonably good place, we can find ways to make your existence more enjoyable and fulfilling. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
(972) 737-9594 View (972) 737-9594
Photo of Reinesha Jarman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Reinesha Jarman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dallas, TX 75208
Seeking therapy can feel like a huge step, and that trust may not come easily, especially if you’ve faced challenges in the past. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your feelings at your own pace. Recognizing the importance of culture in shaping your unique experiences, how you understand yourself and the world around you, I incorporate that lens to ensure therapy is meaningful and relevant.
Seeking therapy can feel like a huge step, and that trust may not come easily, especially if you’ve faced challenges in the past. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your feelings at your own pace. Recognizing the importance of culture in shaping your unique experiences, how you understand yourself and the world around you, I incorporate that lens to ensure therapy is meaningful and relevant.
(469) 874-1540 View (469) 874-1540
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Torres Rojas, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Stephanie Torres Rojas
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
(Telehealth/Virtual only) Dr. Torres, Psy. D., was born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico. She earned a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Ponce Health Sciences University in 2020 with Academic Honors. She obtained a Master of Science in Psychology in 2018. In 2016, Dr. Torres completed a professional certificate in family and couples therapy at Ponce Health Sciences University. She graduated cum laude from the PUCPR in 2012 with a bachelor's degree in Social Work and a minor in Psychology.
(Telehealth/Virtual only) Dr. Torres, Psy. D., was born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico. She earned a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Ponce Health Sciences University in 2020 with Academic Honors. She obtained a Master of Science in Psychology in 2018. In 2016, Dr. Torres completed a professional certificate in family and couples therapy at Ponce Health Sciences University. She graduated cum laude from the PUCPR in 2012 with a bachelor's degree in Social Work and a minor in Psychology.
(830) 293-4039 View (830) 293-4039
Photo of Erin Lozano, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Erin Lozano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
Nothing tugs at your heart more than seeing your child struggle—and not knowing how to help. Children often don’t have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but as a parent, you just know when something’s not quite right. I work with children ages 2 to 10 and their families in individual and group settings to support challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, emotional regulation, and social skills. I also offer ADHD and autism assessments to help guide therapy and give families clearer direction. My play therapy approach is personalized, playful (of course!), and grounded in cognitive behavioral strategies.
Nothing tugs at your heart more than seeing your child struggle—and not knowing how to help. Children often don’t have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but as a parent, you just know when something’s not quite right. I work with children ages 2 to 10 and their families in individual and group settings to support challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, emotional regulation, and social skills. I also offer ADHD and autism assessments to help guide therapy and give families clearer direction. My play therapy approach is personalized, playful (of course!), and grounded in cognitive behavioral strategies.
(469) 551-4492 View (469) 551-4492
Photo of Alicia Muhammad, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alicia Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dallas, TX 75204
My therapy style is collaborative, integrative, and patient-centered, blending evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT-informed skills, and trauma-informed care. I focus on building insight, emotional regulation, and practical coping strategies while honoring each patient's values, strengths, and readiness for change. I have over 20 years of experience in psychotherapy, with specialized training in trauma-informed care, faith-based counseling, addiction recovery, ADHD, and working with high-stress populations such as veterans, law enforcement, first responders, and LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
My therapy style is collaborative, integrative, and patient-centered, blending evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT-informed skills, and trauma-informed care. I focus on building insight, emotional regulation, and practical coping strategies while honoring each patient's values, strengths, and readiness for change. I have over 20 years of experience in psychotherapy, with specialized training in trauma-informed care, faith-based counseling, addiction recovery, ADHD, and working with high-stress populations such as veterans, law enforcement, first responders, and LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
(972) 348-0194 View (972) 348-0194
Photo of Dr. Tracy A Protti, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Tracy A Protti
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. Managing mood disorders (anxiety, depression), eating disorders, chronic pain (musculoskeletal, headache disorders, fibromyalgia), cancer, and chronic illness are just a few areas of life that bring about distress, discomfort, and overall malaise. Please access my website to schedule a free consultation.
Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. Managing mood disorders (anxiety, depression), eating disorders, chronic pain (musculoskeletal, headache disorders, fibromyalgia), cancer, and chronic illness are just a few areas of life that bring about distress, discomfort, and overall malaise. Please access my website to schedule a free consultation.
(469) 972-7139 View (469) 972-7139

See more therapy options for Dallas

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dallas, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD
61% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Dallas, TX see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dallas?

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.