Therapists in MacGregor, Houston, TX

Photo of Keylynne Matos-Cunningham, LPC-Associate, MPH, MEd, LPC-Asc
Keylynne Matos-Cunningham
LPC-Associate, MPH, MEd, LPC-Asc
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77054
My ideal client is a marginalized being facing trauma, burnout, and major life transitions. They need a culturally affirming, trauma-informed space to build self-trust, regulate emotions, and set boundaries. Their goal is to heal, thrive, and live authentically, free from past burdens.
My ideal client is a marginalized being facing trauma, burnout, and major life transitions. They need a culturally affirming, trauma-informed space to build self-trust, regulate emotions, and set boundaries. Their goal is to heal, thrive, and live authentically, free from past burdens.
(346) 230-5054 View (346) 230-5054
Photo of Tori Olley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, CSM
Tori Olley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, CSM
1 Endorsed
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77005
I am a compassionate, solution-focused mental health professional licensed in Maryland and Texas, with years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based interventions tailored to individual needs. I create a supportive space to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I advocate for my clients, stay attuned to their stressors, and emphasize collaboration, resilience, and healing. I value communication, organization, and consistent care.
I am a compassionate, solution-focused mental health professional licensed in Maryland and Texas, with years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based interventions tailored to individual needs. I create a supportive space to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I advocate for my clients, stay attuned to their stressors, and emphasize collaboration, resilience, and healing. I value communication, organization, and consistent care.
(346) 485-8911 View (346) 485-8911
Photo of Eboni Person, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSEd, LMFT-A
Eboni Person
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSEd, LMFT-A
1 Endorsed
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77021
Breathe, you've made it this far! If you're looking for someone to walk with you on your journey, I'm here. I strive to create a safe and empowering space for my clients, where healing and growth can flourish. My clients are breaking generational cycles, navigating life’s challenges, and learning healthier ways to love themselves and others. I’m especially passionate about working with couples, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC clients, and neurodivergent individuals—helping them feel seen, heard, and valued. My work often focuses on supporting those managing relational struggles, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Breathe, you've made it this far! If you're looking for someone to walk with you on your journey, I'm here. I strive to create a safe and empowering space for my clients, where healing and growth can flourish. My clients are breaking generational cycles, navigating life’s challenges, and learning healthier ways to love themselves and others. I’m especially passionate about working with couples, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC clients, and neurodivergent individuals—helping them feel seen, heard, and valued. My work often focuses on supporting those managing relational struggles, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and Borderline Personality Disorder.
(346) 480-5700 View (346) 480-5700
Photo of Evangelina Ojeda, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Evangelina Ojeda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77021
Are you experiencing challenging times and feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I am here to support you.
Are you experiencing challenging times and feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I am here to support you.
(713) 575-2941 View (713) 575-2941
Photo of Saraí Torres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Saraí Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77021
"You’re not healing to handle the trauma, pain, anxiety, or depression—you’re used to those. You’re healing to embrace joy and welcome happiness back into your life." I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My person-centered approach creates a safe, empathetic space to explore your story and rediscover your inner strength.
"You’re not healing to handle the trauma, pain, anxiety, or depression—you’re used to those. You’re healing to embrace joy and welcome happiness back into your life." I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My person-centered approach creates a safe, empathetic space to explore your story and rediscover your inner strength.
(469) 972-8179 View (469) 972-8179
Photo of Faith Comfort Mamombe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Faith Comfort Mamombe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
2 Endorsed
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77021
In a world that demands more than you feel you can give, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength. The weight of your past experiences and challenges may have shaken your confidence, making even small decisions feel overwhelming. If you're struggling to see a path forward or feeling stuck in hopelessness, know that these emotions are a natural response to our high-pressure world. Yet beneath these doubts lies your inherent worth – a unique spirit waiting to reconnect with its potential. Together, we can help you rediscover your value and share it with those who matter most.
In a world that demands more than you feel you can give, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength. The weight of your past experiences and challenges may have shaken your confidence, making even small decisions feel overwhelming. If you're struggling to see a path forward or feeling stuck in hopelessness, know that these emotions are a natural response to our high-pressure world. Yet beneath these doubts lies your inherent worth – a unique spirit waiting to reconnect with its potential. Together, we can help you rediscover your value and share it with those who matter most.
(210) 817-5527 View (210) 817-5527
Photo of Tamara Tatum, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT, LMFT
Tamara Tatum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT, LMFT
3 Endorsed
MacGregor, Houston, TX 77004
You may be here because your relationship feels distant, life feels overwhelming, or you're stuck in painful relationship patterns. Maybe past trauma keeps resurfacing, or conflict leaves you feeling disconnected from loved ones. You want deeper connection, healing, and peace—but that’s hard to reach alone. Whether in your marriage, family, or personal life, you don’t have to do this by yourself. Or, you may find yourself painfully reliving your past, no matter how hard you try to press on. It is possible to find a new way of living with more freedom and connection; but, this can be hard without help along the way.
You may be here because your relationship feels distant, life feels overwhelming, or you're stuck in painful relationship patterns. Maybe past trauma keeps resurfacing, or conflict leaves you feeling disconnected from loved ones. You want deeper connection, healing, and peace—but that’s hard to reach alone. Whether in your marriage, family, or personal life, you don’t have to do this by yourself. Or, you may find yourself painfully reliving your past, no matter how hard you try to press on. It is possible to find a new way of living with more freedom and connection; but, this can be hard without help along the way.
(513) 790-4016 View (513) 790-4016
Photo of Maggie Francis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maggie Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Life is challenging and continuously changing. These changes can be unexpected, unplanned and can leave one feeling stressed, worried, anxious, and depressed. As your therapist you are not alone, I can provide a supportive and empathetic environment. I will work together with you to guide you through a journey of self-exploration and discovery to achieve a deeper understanding about yourself. While at the same time recognizing your natural gifts and unique talents as an individual. I believe that life experiences shape who we are as individuals and that we are able to re-write our own story.
Life is challenging and continuously changing. These changes can be unexpected, unplanned and can leave one feeling stressed, worried, anxious, and depressed. As your therapist you are not alone, I can provide a supportive and empathetic environment. I will work together with you to guide you through a journey of self-exploration and discovery to achieve a deeper understanding about yourself. While at the same time recognizing your natural gifts and unique talents as an individual. I believe that life experiences shape who we are as individuals and that we are able to re-write our own story.
(832) 664-7985 View (832) 664-7985
Photo of Maria DaSilva, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
Maria DaSilva
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ready to make lasting change? I work with adults who are willing to invest in themselves and prioritize growth, helping them overcome anxiety, depression, panic, co-dependency, and relationship challenges. Together, we’ll create healthier patterns, greater insight, and emotional stability—through convenient telehealth sessions in English and Portuguese.
Ready to make lasting change? I work with adults who are willing to invest in themselves and prioritize growth, helping them overcome anxiety, depression, panic, co-dependency, and relationship challenges. Together, we’ll create healthier patterns, greater insight, and emotional stability—through convenient telehealth sessions in English and Portuguese.
(281) 205-8457 View (281) 205-8457
Photo of Sonja Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sonja Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I believe that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals. My role is to help you uncover and understand the obstacles and trauma that are getting in the way of achieving what you desire, and then help you tap into your inner resources to succeed. With empathy and authenticity, I work alongside my clients to promote healing and discovery of their power to change. Whether you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss; problems with relationships, parenting, or self-esteem; or a general sense of disconnectedness – whatever it is – I recognize that therapy is self-work, and it's not easy.
I believe that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals. My role is to help you uncover and understand the obstacles and trauma that are getting in the way of achieving what you desire, and then help you tap into your inner resources to succeed. With empathy and authenticity, I work alongside my clients to promote healing and discovery of their power to change. Whether you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss; problems with relationships, parenting, or self-esteem; or a general sense of disconnectedness – whatever it is – I recognize that therapy is self-work, and it's not easy.
(713) 257-9341 View (713) 257-9341
Photo of Dr. Brittany Harrell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Dr. Brittany Harrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
You may appear capable and put together on the outside, but internally feel anxious, overwhelmed, or uncertain, especially in relationships. You might find yourself overthinking, over-functioning, or feeling responsible for keeping everything running smoothly, even when you’re exhausted. Many of the women I work with, particularly Black women, have spent years being “the strong one” while rarely feeling supported themselves. You’re not looking to be fixed, you want to feel more grounded, secure, and confident in how you show up for your life and relationships.
You may appear capable and put together on the outside, but internally feel anxious, overwhelmed, or uncertain, especially in relationships. You might find yourself overthinking, over-functioning, or feeling responsible for keeping everything running smoothly, even when you’re exhausted. Many of the women I work with, particularly Black women, have spent years being “the strong one” while rarely feeling supported themselves. You’re not looking to be fixed, you want to feel more grounded, secure, and confident in how you show up for your life and relationships.
(832) 772-2258 View (832) 772-2258
Photo of Shaunae Tolson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shaunae Tolson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Are you ready for change? Perhaps you've gone through a traumatic life event, have found yourself in a dead-end relationship or career, or have felt the weight of depression pulling you down. Healing happens with help from others, and you deserve support! You don't have to do it all alone. I believe growth is available to us at any time in our lives! Let's make that happen for you. You are more capable than your fears and limiting beliefs try to make you believe. Compassion, support, patience, and attentiveness are what is necessary in helping others on their journey to mental wellness.
Are you ready for change? Perhaps you've gone through a traumatic life event, have found yourself in a dead-end relationship or career, or have felt the weight of depression pulling you down. Healing happens with help from others, and you deserve support! You don't have to do it all alone. I believe growth is available to us at any time in our lives! Let's make that happen for you. You are more capable than your fears and limiting beliefs try to make you believe. Compassion, support, patience, and attentiveness are what is necessary in helping others on their journey to mental wellness.
(832) 843-1234 View (832) 843-1234
Photo of Khandyce Pitner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Khandyce Pitner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Khandyce Pitner, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over seven years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. I have worked with many individuals suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Coping Skills, Life Transitions, Substance Use, Low-SES, Women’s issues, and more. I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that my passion is to guide, assist, and support you in recognizing and utilizing your most significant potential for change.
My name is Khandyce Pitner, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over seven years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. I have worked with many individuals suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Coping Skills, Life Transitions, Substance Use, Low-SES, Women’s issues, and more. I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that my passion is to guide, assist, and support you in recognizing and utilizing your most significant potential for change.
(682) 297-5732 View (682) 297-5732
Photo of Maria da Silva, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
Maria da Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
Online Only
I offer telehealth counseling in English and Portuguese for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, low self-esteem, and challenges with relationships, perfectionism, or career. Therapy works best when you actively engage in the process—having a safe, supportive space is important, but real progress comes from your willingness to explore how your mind works, understand your emotions, and examine your behavioral choices.
I offer telehealth counseling in English and Portuguese for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, low self-esteem, and challenges with relationships, perfectionism, or career. Therapy works best when you actively engage in the process—having a safe, supportive space is important, but real progress comes from your willingness to explore how your mind works, understand your emotions, and examine your behavioral choices.
(281) 378-5820 View (281) 378-5820
Photo of Melissa S Gates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melissa S Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Checking in. Are you okay? You were never meant to carry your pain alone, and you don’t have to start now. Many of my clients are high-achieving, caring people who feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or emotionally depleted beneath the surface. I specialize in grief, anxiety, and mood dysregulation. Whether your sadness feels heavy or your emotions feel unpredictable, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental and open space to help you feel steadier, more understood, and more in control of your mental health. Together, we'll explore effective coping strategies tailored to your unique needs, helping you build resilience and regain a sense of balance.
Checking in. Are you okay? You were never meant to carry your pain alone, and you don’t have to start now. Many of my clients are high-achieving, caring people who feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or emotionally depleted beneath the surface. I specialize in grief, anxiety, and mood dysregulation. Whether your sadness feels heavy or your emotions feel unpredictable, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental and open space to help you feel steadier, more understood, and more in control of your mental health. Together, we'll explore effective coping strategies tailored to your unique needs, helping you build resilience and regain a sense of balance.
(346) 644-7230 View (346) 644-7230
Photo of Jessica Okoronkwo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Okoronkwo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas, holding a Master’s degree in Social Work from Baylor University. With five years of experience in the field, including having worked in an inpatient psychiatric setting for four years. My expertise includes supporting adolescents and older adults in managing mental health challenges and developing effective coping strategies tailored to their individual needs.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas, holding a Master’s degree in Social Work from Baylor University. With five years of experience in the field, including having worked in an inpatient psychiatric setting for four years. My expertise includes supporting adolescents and older adults in managing mental health challenges and developing effective coping strategies tailored to their individual needs.
(281) 984-6086 View (281) 984-6086
Photo of Sarah Rossmiller, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sarah Rossmiller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Overwhelmed by relentless self-criticism, burnout, or feeling stuck trying to live up to impossible standards? Maybe you’re navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, or relational trauma & feel stuck or disconnected. You want to break free from people-pleasing, perfectionism, & exhaustion to build a life that feels true to you - on your terms & at your pace. Therapy can help you untangle from these patterns, heal your inner parts with compassion, & build a life that feels authentic & aligned with what truly matters to you.
Overwhelmed by relentless self-criticism, burnout, or feeling stuck trying to live up to impossible standards? Maybe you’re navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, or relational trauma & feel stuck or disconnected. You want to break free from people-pleasing, perfectionism, & exhaustion to build a life that feels true to you - on your terms & at your pace. Therapy can help you untangle from these patterns, heal your inner parts with compassion, & build a life that feels authentic & aligned with what truly matters to you.
(713) 903-2284 View (713) 903-2284
Photo of Kathryn E Snider, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Kathryn E Snider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and foster personal growth. With an additional Masters in Kinesiology, I am eager to adopt an integrative approach that emphasizes how physical health can positively impact mental well-being. I believe that combining physical fitness and mental health strategies offers a holistic path to overall wellness. I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings.
As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and foster personal growth. With an additional Masters in Kinesiology, I am eager to adopt an integrative approach that emphasizes how physical health can positively impact mental well-being. I believe that combining physical fitness and mental health strategies offers a holistic path to overall wellness. I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings.
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Photo of Patrice Hartsfield, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Patrice Hartsfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or in the middle of a major life change? I provide individual therapy for adults navigating anxiety, stress, self-doubt, career transitions, relocation, relationship changes, and identity exploration. My approach is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented, focused on helping you feel grounded, confident, and emotionally regulated. You don’t need to have it all figured out to start therapy—just a safe space and support to take the next step forward.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or in the middle of a major life change? I provide individual therapy for adults navigating anxiety, stress, self-doubt, career transitions, relocation, relationship changes, and identity exploration. My approach is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented, focused on helping you feel grounded, confident, and emotionally regulated. You don’t need to have it all figured out to start therapy—just a safe space and support to take the next step forward.
(713) 804-6137 View (713) 804-6137
Photo of Connie Pope, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Connie Pope
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
As a licensed professional counselor, I believe living a fulfilled and rewarding life begins with being emotionally and cognitively healthy. I work to empower you to live your life to its' fullest potential. In addition to being licensed in the state of Texas, I hold multiple certifications. I have been practicing for 5 years, my focus in the last 3 have been towards women's issues, couples in crisis, grief and loss, sex/porn, and substance addiction just to name a few. I graduated from UHD earning a BS in Psychology and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I service ages 17 and up.
As a licensed professional counselor, I believe living a fulfilled and rewarding life begins with being emotionally and cognitively healthy. I work to empower you to live your life to its' fullest potential. In addition to being licensed in the state of Texas, I hold multiple certifications. I have been practicing for 5 years, my focus in the last 3 have been towards women's issues, couples in crisis, grief and loss, sex/porn, and substance addiction just to name a few. I graduated from UHD earning a BS in Psychology and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I service ages 17 and up.
(346) 626-3759 View (346) 626-3759

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in MacGregor, Houston, TX

20+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in MacGregor, Houston, TX who prioritize treating:

86% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
86% Anxiety
81% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
62% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
72% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in MacGregor, Houston, TX see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

95% Female
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in MacGregor, Houston?

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.