Therapists in Shenandoah, TX

Photo of Daniel Heath Ferguson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Heath Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77381  (Online Only)
Are you going through difficult times in your personal or professional life? Do you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship, or divorce issues? You are not alone. Many people face these challenges and they can affect your happiness, health, and productivity. But there is hope. You can overcome them and live a fulfilling life.
Are you going through difficult times in your personal or professional life? Do you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship, or divorce issues? You are not alone. Many people face these challenges and they can affect your happiness, health, and productivity. But there is hope. You can overcome them and live a fulfilling life.
(713) 766-5538 View (713) 766-5538
Photo of Amanda Schramm, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Schramm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77384
Hi! My name is Mandy Schramm. I've been working in the mental health field since 2015, but practicing counseling since 2020. I have Master's degrees in both Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My background mainly has been working with adolescents in residential and inpatient settings struggling with mental health and behavioral issues. My work with adolescents in long term programs has afforded me the opportunity to see how different environments and family systems shape youth growth and needs. I also work with adults struggling with mental health, ineffective coping skills, poor social supports, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Mandy Schramm. I've been working in the mental health field since 2015, but practicing counseling since 2020. I have Master's degrees in both Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My background mainly has been working with adolescents in residential and inpatient settings struggling with mental health and behavioral issues. My work with adolescents in long term programs has afforded me the opportunity to see how different environments and family systems shape youth growth and needs. I also work with adults struggling with mental health, ineffective coping skills, poor social supports, and trauma.
(936) 220-3725 View (936) 220-3725
Photo of Kevin Houston, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77384
I provide support for adolescents, adults and adult partnerships experiencing disturbance due to excessive or uncontrolled worry, anger, irritability, sadness etc. I offer guidance and support to the client on their journey to improve their mental health wellness by developing their ability to process experiences and thoughts.
I provide support for adolescents, adults and adult partnerships experiencing disturbance due to excessive or uncontrolled worry, anger, irritability, sadness etc. I offer guidance and support to the client on their journey to improve their mental health wellness by developing their ability to process experiences and thoughts.
(936) 312-3386 View (936) 312-3386
Photo of Rubina Pina, MEd, LPC, LCDC-i, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rubina Pina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC-i
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77384
Life. Is. HARD. I personally feel like that isn’t talked about enough. I think we try to convince ourselves that we should not be struggling, or we feel guilty for struggling. Give yourself permission to vent and get some guidance. You need someone who will listen and not minimize your situation or your feelings. Asking for help does not mean that you are not capable of handling things on your own but sometimes it’s just easier to have someone listen and offer support. If you are struggling with figuring out this thing called life or you just had a change develop, I want to help you navigate those!
Life. Is. HARD. I personally feel like that isn’t talked about enough. I think we try to convince ourselves that we should not be struggling, or we feel guilty for struggling. Give yourself permission to vent and get some guidance. You need someone who will listen and not minimize your situation or your feelings. Asking for help does not mean that you are not capable of handling things on your own but sometimes it’s just easier to have someone listen and offer support. If you are struggling with figuring out this thing called life or you just had a change develop, I want to help you navigate those!
(832) 737-8959 View (832) 737-8959
Photo of Juana McKinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Juana McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77385
I help women overcome impacts of trauma that may cause anxiety, depression and/or PTSD. Together we'll develop tools to manage emotions, regain control, develop strong boundaries, build self-esteem, and improve communication skills. My aim is to support clients throughout their journey as they strive to rediscover or establish a sense of self, overcome effects of trauma, and embrace a fulfilled life. Not ready to dive into your past just yet? That's perfectly okay, I'll meet you where you are in your journey and we will work through present day issues together.
I help women overcome impacts of trauma that may cause anxiety, depression and/or PTSD. Together we'll develop tools to manage emotions, regain control, develop strong boundaries, build self-esteem, and improve communication skills. My aim is to support clients throughout their journey as they strive to rediscover or establish a sense of self, overcome effects of trauma, and embrace a fulfilled life. Not ready to dive into your past just yet? That's perfectly okay, I'll meet you where you are in your journey and we will work through present day issues together.
(713) 804-6179 View (713) 804-6179
Photo of Brooke Johnson, MMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77384
I am passionate about working with people who want to find their most authentic selves. I work to meet people where they are and to help them learn tools to reach the goals they set for themselves. I work with individuals, adults and adolescents, as well as couples. I am an eclectic therapist and individualize therapy to what the clients needs. I have extensive training in addictions and is excited about the opportunity to work with clients to help them envision the life they want. The best part of my job is when I get to see progress a client makes. 18+.
I am passionate about working with people who want to find their most authentic selves. I work to meet people where they are and to help them learn tools to reach the goals they set for themselves. I work with individuals, adults and adolescents, as well as couples. I am an eclectic therapist and individualize therapy to what the clients needs. I have extensive training in addictions and is excited about the opportunity to work with clients to help them envision the life they want. The best part of my job is when I get to see progress a client makes. 18+.
(281) 519-6769 View (281) 519-6769
Photo of Breona Merritt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breona Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Do you often find yourself feeling burdened by stress that seems never-ending? Are you having difficulty concentrating or experiencing consistently low energy levels? Are you paralyzed by fear in social situations or when facing heightened stress? Perhaps you frequently withdraw from social interactions, yet you yearn for a sense of belonging and community deep down. You may often doubt your own value and feel like others don't truly understand you. Imagine having access to compassionate guidance and practical tools tailored specifically to your experiences.
Do you often find yourself feeling burdened by stress that seems never-ending? Are you having difficulty concentrating or experiencing consistently low energy levels? Are you paralyzed by fear in social situations or when facing heightened stress? Perhaps you frequently withdraw from social interactions, yet you yearn for a sense of belonging and community deep down. You may often doubt your own value and feel like others don't truly understand you. Imagine having access to compassionate guidance and practical tools tailored specifically to your experiences.
(281) 377-6721 View (281) 377-6721
Photo of Shelby Doyle, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77384
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty coping with life stressors? Do you want to be more intentional about how you take care of yourself? Are you struggling to find meaning or joy in your daily life? As a counselor, I’m passionate about creating positive therapeutic relationships that allow clients to draw upon their own strengths to develop coping skills that fit their lifestyle, set healthy boundaries, and increase their overall wellness and quality of life. I want my clients to feel seen, heard and understood to live their happiest and healthiest lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty coping with life stressors? Do you want to be more intentional about how you take care of yourself? Are you struggling to find meaning or joy in your daily life? As a counselor, I’m passionate about creating positive therapeutic relationships that allow clients to draw upon their own strengths to develop coping skills that fit their lifestyle, set healthy boundaries, and increase their overall wellness and quality of life. I want my clients to feel seen, heard and understood to live their happiest and healthiest lives.
(936) 215-8113 View (936) 215-8113
Photo of Katerina Vengoechea, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katerina Vengoechea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77385  (Online Only)
You are someone who wants to feel empowered by creating a new relationship with your emotions and how you cope with them. You seek a sense of peace, fulfillment, and balance that has not yet felt easy to attain. You want to build a deeper connection with yourself and others, to understand your past and its impact on the present, and to move forward with confidence and clarity. People choose to work with me because they are looking for a passionate, energetic, and compassionate therapist who will support and guide them in recognizing the power they hold in their lives, ultimately leading to transformative change.
You are someone who wants to feel empowered by creating a new relationship with your emotions and how you cope with them. You seek a sense of peace, fulfillment, and balance that has not yet felt easy to attain. You want to build a deeper connection with yourself and others, to understand your past and its impact on the present, and to move forward with confidence and clarity. People choose to work with me because they are looking for a passionate, energetic, and compassionate therapist who will support and guide them in recognizing the power they hold in their lives, ultimately leading to transformative change.
(832) 304-0902 View (832) 304-0902
Photo of Kristen Nicole Skowronski, MS, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kristen Nicole Skowronski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Do you feel that the relationship you and your partner dreamed of may be slipping away? Searching for reconnection? You may be fed up with arguments interfering with family time, feeling misunderstood or alone. It may be getting more difficult to remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for change. To learn to create improved patterns in your communication. Most of all, you’re ready to establish peace and love in your relationship again.
Do you feel that the relationship you and your partner dreamed of may be slipping away? Searching for reconnection? You may be fed up with arguments interfering with family time, feeling misunderstood or alone. It may be getting more difficult to remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for change. To learn to create improved patterns in your communication. Most of all, you’re ready to establish peace and love in your relationship again.
(936) 209-7259 View (936) 209-7259
Photo of Darlene Zavertnik, LPC A
Darlene Zavertnik
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC A
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77384
“Some days it is all I can do to just breathe, much less get out of bed. No one seems to understand what I am going through, and I have lost sight of myself.” If you have said these things or have these thoughts, you are not alone. Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. It tends to create challenges that may seem impossible to overcome and leave you struggling. Life struggles can have an impact on the way you perceive yourself and/or the world. You don’t have to work through these challenges alone.
“Some days it is all I can do to just breathe, much less get out of bed. No one seems to understand what I am going through, and I have lost sight of myself.” If you have said these things or have these thoughts, you are not alone. Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. It tends to create challenges that may seem impossible to overcome and leave you struggling. Life struggles can have an impact on the way you perceive yourself and/or the world. You don’t have to work through these challenges alone.
(936) 209-7763 View (936) 209-7763
Photo of Stephanie A Chavez, MA, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie A Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Imagine a reality where you understand yourself so well that your thoughts and feelings make sense. Imagine feeling in control of yourself and your life in a way that actually allows you to work toward and accomplish the goals you set for yourself. The path to the life you want is available to you, but not without barriers. I can help you navigate through obstacles that will ultimately reveal a resilient and empowered version of you that you may not yet be acquainted with. If you're feeling stuck, I can help you consider new possibilities for your life.
Imagine a reality where you understand yourself so well that your thoughts and feelings make sense. Imagine feeling in control of yourself and your life in a way that actually allows you to work toward and accomplish the goals you set for yourself. The path to the life you want is available to you, but not without barriers. I can help you navigate through obstacles that will ultimately reveal a resilient and empowered version of you that you may not yet be acquainted with. If you're feeling stuck, I can help you consider new possibilities for your life.
(936) 243-5840 View (936) 243-5840
Photo of Jessica Preston, MEd
Jessica Preston
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Teens want to be heard and understood. They are facing an abundance of obstacles that they need help navigating. I’m here to do just that. I use an empathetic, non-judgmental approach to connect with my clients and determine the best methods to use to help them reach their therapeutic goals. I have found that including the family in this process has not only been beneficial for the client but the entire family as a whole.
Teens want to be heard and understood. They are facing an abundance of obstacles that they need help navigating. I’m here to do just that. I use an empathetic, non-judgmental approach to connect with my clients and determine the best methods to use to help them reach their therapeutic goals. I have found that including the family in this process has not only been beneficial for the client but the entire family as a whole.
(281) 688-9155 View (281) 688-9155
Photo of Dr. Efrain Uribe, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Efrain Uribe
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Like just going through the motions? Change is possible. Therapy is a courageous way to seek help and find balance in your life. My name is Efrain Uribe, and my goal is to help individuals live fulfilling lives and be content with themselves.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Like just going through the motions? Change is possible. Therapy is a courageous way to seek help and find balance in your life. My name is Efrain Uribe, and my goal is to help individuals live fulfilling lives and be content with themselves.
(936) 312-3546 View (936) 312-3546
Photo of Ainsley Winter, LPC-A, NCC
Ainsley Winter
LPC Associate, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77384
It is a courageous decision to take the step to work on yourself and create the life that you hope for. It would be a pleasure to walk with you through your journey to become a better you. As a team, we will develop a collaborative viewpoint where we can explore and process any difficulties related to work, relationships, life changes, learn critical life skills, and create meaningful connections in your life. My passions include creating a safe place to talk about anything that you want to work through, and breaking the stigma of mental illnesses.
It is a courageous decision to take the step to work on yourself and create the life that you hope for. It would be a pleasure to walk with you through your journey to become a better you. As a team, we will develop a collaborative viewpoint where we can explore and process any difficulties related to work, relationships, life changes, learn critical life skills, and create meaningful connections in your life. My passions include creating a safe place to talk about anything that you want to work through, and breaking the stigma of mental illnesses.
(936) 278-1629 View (936) 278-1629
Photo of Kasie Ennis, MS, LPC, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kasie Ennis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77385
I am dedicated to helping women, new mothers, and young adults find healing, emotional balance, relief from overwhelm, and renewed confidence as they embrace change. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, the transition into motherhood, or unresolved trauma, you weren't designed to face these challenges alone. I believe that with appropriate support and sufficient time, everyone has the potential to achieve and sustain mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work collaboratively to support your journey, set meaningful treatment goals, and help you experience relief and hope for a brighter future.
I am dedicated to helping women, new mothers, and young adults find healing, emotional balance, relief from overwhelm, and renewed confidence as they embrace change. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, the transition into motherhood, or unresolved trauma, you weren't designed to face these challenges alone. I believe that with appropriate support and sufficient time, everyone has the potential to achieve and sustain mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work collaboratively to support your journey, set meaningful treatment goals, and help you experience relief and hope for a brighter future.
(936) 213-9721 View (936) 213-9721
Photo of Ana Valadez, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Valadez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77384  (Online Only)
Hola! I'm Ana, a bilingual mental health counselor. I've dedicated most of my career to supporting those facing mental health challenges in underserved communities and the legal system. My goal as a therapist is to provide access to mental health services for those facing financial or cultural barriers. I understand firsthand the stigma surrounding mental health and the financial challenges of seeking emotional support. I'm here to offer an accessible, safe, and non-judgmental space where we can work together to address your concerns.
Hola! I'm Ana, a bilingual mental health counselor. I've dedicated most of my career to supporting those facing mental health challenges in underserved communities and the legal system. My goal as a therapist is to provide access to mental health services for those facing financial or cultural barriers. I understand firsthand the stigma surrounding mental health and the financial challenges of seeking emotional support. I'm here to offer an accessible, safe, and non-judgmental space where we can work together to address your concerns.
(936) 278-0386 View (936) 278-0386
Photo of Enobong J Inyang, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Enobong J Inyang
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77385
I believe, from personal experiences, years of practice & teaching, that anyone can be empowered to face life challenges. Empowered individuals are resilient & able to bounce back from adversities. My main focus is to empower you & your loved ones to overcome challenges. As a professor for 8 years, I have trained & supervised hundreds of graduate students on evidence-based practices, positive psychology, Strength-based approaches, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, & integration of music & spirituality into counseling. CBT & Adlerian are my overarching modalities upon which I integrate other interventions tailored to clients' needs.
I believe, from personal experiences, years of practice & teaching, that anyone can be empowered to face life challenges. Empowered individuals are resilient & able to bounce back from adversities. My main focus is to empower you & your loved ones to overcome challenges. As a professor for 8 years, I have trained & supervised hundreds of graduate students on evidence-based practices, positive psychology, Strength-based approaches, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, & integration of music & spirituality into counseling. CBT & Adlerian are my overarching modalities upon which I integrate other interventions tailored to clients' needs.
(936) 251-0619 View (936) 251-0619
Photo of Rhonda Bullard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Bullard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Connect with a counselor when you have reached your capacity to cope with the complexities of life. Many who experience behavioral health challenges or developmental disabilities may feel disconnected, lonely, empty, overwhelmed, or moved to avoid pain in unhealthy ways. I help clients develop healthy decision-making skills to move along their path to healing and wellness. I provide treatment and support to children, adolescents, adults, and families. In therapy we work together to develop practical skills to connect to what is meaningful and purposeful for the client.
Connect with a counselor when you have reached your capacity to cope with the complexities of life. Many who experience behavioral health challenges or developmental disabilities may feel disconnected, lonely, empty, overwhelmed, or moved to avoid pain in unhealthy ways. I help clients develop healthy decision-making skills to move along their path to healing and wellness. I provide treatment and support to children, adolescents, adults, and families. In therapy we work together to develop practical skills to connect to what is meaningful and purposeful for the client.
(832) 979-2695 View (832) 979-2695
Photo of Katie Biggs, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Katie Biggs
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77384
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Having trouble coping with life stressors or finding your identity? Ready to take the first step of finding support on your journey to better mental health? As a clinician, I am passionate about meeting you where you are and helping you discover your most authentic self. While prioritizing a positive therapeutic relationship, I use an eclectic approach to tailor treatment to your unique needs. I want you to feel understood and valued while we collaborate to develop the tools needed to cope with your challenges, set healthy boundaries, and increase your quality of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Having trouble coping with life stressors or finding your identity? Ready to take the first step of finding support on your journey to better mental health? As a clinician, I am passionate about meeting you where you are and helping you discover your most authentic self. While prioritizing a positive therapeutic relationship, I use an eclectic approach to tailor treatment to your unique needs. I want you to feel understood and valued while we collaborate to develop the tools needed to cope with your challenges, set healthy boundaries, and increase your quality of life.
(936) 289-3113 View (936) 289-3113
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Shenandoah, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Shenandoah, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
67% Coping Skills
66% Self Esteem
64% Trauma and PTSD
57% Grief
51% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
90% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna

How Therapists in Shenandoah, TX see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Shenandoah?

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.