Therapists in Southlake, TX

Photo of Kimberly (Kim) Libby, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Kimberly (Kim) Libby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Online Only
I work with individuals from a strengths-based, person-centered perspective. I also like to incorporate interpersonal neurobiology to help you learn to sit with emotions in your mind and body. I let you take the lead - after all, these sessions are all about you! I think it's important to spend time getting to know my clients and making our time together a conversation as opposed to a Q&A session. It's important to me that you feel heard and understood. My goal is to help you create a life that makes you proud. I am direct but kind, and tailor my approach to specifically address your mental health needs as you define them.
I work with individuals from a strengths-based, person-centered perspective. I also like to incorporate interpersonal neurobiology to help you learn to sit with emotions in your mind and body. I let you take the lead - after all, these sessions are all about you! I think it's important to spend time getting to know my clients and making our time together a conversation as opposed to a Q&A session. It's important to me that you feel heard and understood. My goal is to help you create a life that makes you proud. I am direct but kind, and tailor my approach to specifically address your mental health needs as you define them.
(737) 300-9253 View (737) 300-9253
Photo of Brianne Godlevski, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Brianne Godlevski
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am most passionate in helping individuals dealing with trauma, life transitions, college-aged students, LGBTQ challenges, Trichotillomania, women's issues, and pregnancy/postpartum. I can provide talk therapy or EMDR depending on what a client needs.
I am most passionate in helping individuals dealing with trauma, life transitions, college-aged students, LGBTQ challenges, Trichotillomania, women's issues, and pregnancy/postpartum. I can provide talk therapy or EMDR depending on what a client needs.
(817) 587-0161 View (817) 587-0161
Photo of Aanchal Rajagopal, Licensed Professional Counselor, BPT, MS, LPC
Aanchal Rajagopal
Licensed Professional Counselor, BPT, MS, LPC
Southlake, TX 76092
My clientele includes individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, sleep disorders, PTSD and trauma. They seek a compassionate, personalized approach that integrates various therapy techniques to meet their unique needs. With extensive international experience, I bring a broad perspective to treatment. My background in Pediatric Physical Therapy allows me to understand both mind and body connections. I strive to make therapy accessible and provide individualized care to help clients achieve emotional well-being and resilience.
My clientele includes individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, sleep disorders, PTSD and trauma. They seek a compassionate, personalized approach that integrates various therapy techniques to meet their unique needs. With extensive international experience, I bring a broad perspective to treatment. My background in Pediatric Physical Therapy allows me to understand both mind and body connections. I strive to make therapy accessible and provide individualized care to help clients achieve emotional well-being and resilience.
(682) 593-1701 View (682) 593-1701
Photo of Megan Alsop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Megan Alsop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
6 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Do you find yourself thinking, "I'm not enough" or "I'll be judged," even if the criticism comes from within? Many of my clients feel hopeless or stuck. Overwhelmed mothers, healthcare professionals, men longing to engage yet restrained by social anxiety, young adults using self-harm to cope. Struggling with mental health can carry a deep sense of heaviness and isolation, but you are not alone. We will bring acceptance and offer understanding, working to make sense of your experiences and encourage your growth. We will work at building self-compassion and find meaning to live in a way that feels more aligned with who you are.
Do you find yourself thinking, "I'm not enough" or "I'll be judged," even if the criticism comes from within? Many of my clients feel hopeless or stuck. Overwhelmed mothers, healthcare professionals, men longing to engage yet restrained by social anxiety, young adults using self-harm to cope. Struggling with mental health can carry a deep sense of heaviness and isolation, but you are not alone. We will bring acceptance and offer understanding, working to make sense of your experiences and encourage your growth. We will work at building self-compassion and find meaning to live in a way that feels more aligned with who you are.
(817) 241-4056 View (817) 241-4056
Photo of Aaron Spatz, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Aaron Spatz
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
You lead in business and at home, but the "performance" is becoming exhausting. It is a significant honor to sit with you as you navigate the private complexities of your life. As a Marine Corps Officer turned therapist, I understand the weight of responsibility and the messiness of conflict when communication stalls. I provide a discreet, strategic space for high-performers to move past the noise and restore true connection. My approach is polished and direct, yet deeply human, focused on the clarity you need to sustain your success and your marriage. Let’s get to work.
You lead in business and at home, but the "performance" is becoming exhausting. It is a significant honor to sit with you as you navigate the private complexities of your life. As a Marine Corps Officer turned therapist, I understand the weight of responsibility and the messiness of conflict when communication stalls. I provide a discreet, strategic space for high-performers to move past the noise and restore true connection. My approach is polished and direct, yet deeply human, focused on the clarity you need to sustain your success and your marriage. Let’s get to work.
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Photo of Christy Besett, Counselor, MA, LPC
Christy Besett
Counselor, MA, LPC
Southlake, TX 76092
Welcome! I am Christy Besett, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping adults navigate through depression, anxiety, and trauma-related challenges. My approach focuses on practical solutions, effective strategies, and skill-building to help you find stability early in the process. Once we've built a strong therapeutic connection, we can delve deeper into the root causes - such as negative beliefs, past experiences, and unresolved memories - that may be keeping you feeling stuck.
Welcome! I am Christy Besett, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping adults navigate through depression, anxiety, and trauma-related challenges. My approach focuses on practical solutions, effective strategies, and skill-building to help you find stability early in the process. Once we've built a strong therapeutic connection, we can delve deeper into the root causes - such as negative beliefs, past experiences, and unresolved memories - that may be keeping you feeling stuck.
(817) 382-3845 View (817) 382-3845
Photo of Dr. E. Magdalena Battles, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Dr. E. Magdalena Battles
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Currently accepting new clients. Everyone needs counseling or therapy at some point in life. It is wise to seek help when needed. My counseling approach fosters authentic relationships and an environment where clients feel safe and comfortable sharing. Counseling is a collaborative partnership to help you identify, understand, and overcome life’s challenges. For clients experiencing grief, I specialize in grief and unresolved (complicated) grief. I also use EMDR to help process trauma and build emotional resilience.
Currently accepting new clients. Everyone needs counseling or therapy at some point in life. It is wise to seek help when needed. My counseling approach fosters authentic relationships and an environment where clients feel safe and comfortable sharing. Counseling is a collaborative partnership to help you identify, understand, and overcome life’s challenges. For clients experiencing grief, I specialize in grief and unresolved (complicated) grief. I also use EMDR to help process trauma and build emotional resilience.
(817) 438-2982 View (817) 438-2982
Photo of Sarah Hobbs, Psychologist, PhD
Sarah Hobbs
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
I specialize in assessment and diagnosis of a variety of mental health concerns. My goal is to assist clients in understanding their mental health and relationships while answering the question "what now?" by providing appropriate referrals and suggestions once assessment is complete.
I specialize in assessment and diagnosis of a variety of mental health concerns. My goal is to assist clients in understanding their mental health and relationships while answering the question "what now?" by providing appropriate referrals and suggestions once assessment is complete.
(682) 463-1289 View (682) 463-1289
Photo of Marylyn C Sines, Psychologist, PhD
Marylyn C Sines
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
All individuals experience struggles or crisis at some point in their lives. As an experienced licensed psychologist, I am committed to helping my clients overcome obstacles and meet goals that will lead to lasting and meaningful changes in their lives. I provide individual, group, and family therapy to clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life stressors, parenting challenges, attention-deficit disorder, and related behavioral disorders. I also conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults. Special interests include: child and adolescent therapy, treatment of abused children, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and gifted testing.
All individuals experience struggles or crisis at some point in their lives. As an experienced licensed psychologist, I am committed to helping my clients overcome obstacles and meet goals that will lead to lasting and meaningful changes in their lives. I provide individual, group, and family therapy to clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life stressors, parenting challenges, attention-deficit disorder, and related behavioral disorders. I also conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults. Special interests include: child and adolescent therapy, treatment of abused children, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and gifted testing.
(972) 325-0938 View (972) 325-0938
Photo of Sara Barela Swezy, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Sara Barela Swezy
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Evening appointments available! I work with children (8+), teens, and young adults who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, peer pressure, life transitions, and more. My ideal client is looking for a safe, supportive space to better understand their emotions, build resilience, and feel more confident in themselves and their relationships. They want practical tools they can use in everyday life and a counselor who will walk alongside them with empathy, encouragement, and real-world support.
Evening appointments available! I work with children (8+), teens, and young adults who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, peer pressure, life transitions, and more. My ideal client is looking for a safe, supportive space to better understand their emotions, build resilience, and feel more confident in themselves and their relationships. They want practical tools they can use in everyday life and a counselor who will walk alongside them with empathy, encouragement, and real-world support.
(817) 835-8567 View (817) 835-8567
Photo of Mendy Landreth - Restoring Hope Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT, NCC, CCPRT
Restoring Hope Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT, NCC, CCPRT
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Life is challenging! We are here to walk alongside you, ease any loneliness, help you feel understood, bring you encouragement, and offer practical tools to help you enjoy life to the fullest. Restoring Hope Counseling & Consulting, PLLC was founded in order to provide hope & healing to individuals, couples & families. We believe in the transformational power of God’s unconditional love. We seek to help people learn to love and accept themselves, imperfections and all. As individuals develop compassion for themselves and others, they will experience the changes and growth they long to see.
Life is challenging! We are here to walk alongside you, ease any loneliness, help you feel understood, bring you encouragement, and offer practical tools to help you enjoy life to the fullest. Restoring Hope Counseling & Consulting, PLLC was founded in order to provide hope & healing to individuals, couples & families. We believe in the transformational power of God’s unconditional love. We seek to help people learn to love and accept themselves, imperfections and all. As individuals develop compassion for themselves and others, they will experience the changes and growth they long to see.
(817) 873-2305 View (817) 873-2305
Photo of Hannah Elise Christensen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Hannah Elise Christensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Hello! I'm honored to be part of your journey towards improved well-being. Seeking counseling takes courage, and I commend you for taking this step. In my practice, I help individuals find their inner strength and overcome the challenges that trauma and anxiety bring. Through open and non-judgmental conversations, we will explore the root causes of the issues that brought you to therapy. Together, we will develop coping strategies and resilience to navigate life's difficulties effectively.
Hello! I'm honored to be part of your journey towards improved well-being. Seeking counseling takes courage, and I commend you for taking this step. In my practice, I help individuals find their inner strength and overcome the challenges that trauma and anxiety bring. Through open and non-judgmental conversations, we will explore the root causes of the issues that brought you to therapy. Together, we will develop coping strategies and resilience to navigate life's difficulties effectively.
(817) 562-7504 View (817) 562-7504
Photo of Norma McCarthy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Norma McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Southlake, TX 76092
Most of the people I work with are aware of a quiet longing — for something honest, a slower rhythm instead of always pushing, a sense of restoration instead of the burnout that quietly drains them. They’re tired of always being the strong one, of managing anxiety, stress, or emotions behind a calm, capable exterior. They’re worn out from carrying expectations that don’t even feel like their own. Maybe this sounds familiar. From the outside, your life works. You’re capable, reliable, the one people lean on. You’re successful in your career, at school, or at home. But inside, you’re tired. You want space to breathe ...to be seen..
Most of the people I work with are aware of a quiet longing — for something honest, a slower rhythm instead of always pushing, a sense of restoration instead of the burnout that quietly drains them. They’re tired of always being the strong one, of managing anxiety, stress, or emotions behind a calm, capable exterior. They’re worn out from carrying expectations that don’t even feel like their own. Maybe this sounds familiar. From the outside, your life works. You’re capable, reliable, the one people lean on. You’re successful in your career, at school, or at home. But inside, you’re tired. You want space to breathe ...to be seen..
(972) 489-3132 View (972) 489-3132
Photo of Dr. Kaity Brock, Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC
Dr. Kaity Brock
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
As far as anyone knows, you have it all together and your life is perfect but inside you're crumbling. I help people, especially women and young professionals (but others too) who struggle with overcommitting, overdoing, and putting themselves last. People who have trouble saying “no” and feel like jerks when they can’t meet everyone’s needs. Despite being high achieving, driven, and deeply hardworking, life is hard. They feel anxious, burned out, and exhausted from being pulled in too many directions. They worry they’re pushing people and opportunities away when they say no. How they feel or what they want just doesn’t matter.
As far as anyone knows, you have it all together and your life is perfect but inside you're crumbling. I help people, especially women and young professionals (but others too) who struggle with overcommitting, overdoing, and putting themselves last. People who have trouble saying “no” and feel like jerks when they can’t meet everyone’s needs. Despite being high achieving, driven, and deeply hardworking, life is hard. They feel anxious, burned out, and exhausted from being pulled in too many directions. They worry they’re pushing people and opportunities away when they say no. How they feel or what they want just doesn’t matter.
(817) 523-5007 View (817) 523-5007
Photo of Sarah Hernalsteen, License Type: Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Sarah Hernalsteen
License Type: Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Sarah Hernalsteen, LPC-Associate, is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Karen Christensen, LPC-S, LSOTP, CSAT at Rinnovare Counseling Center. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health and Counseling. She is particularly passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as individuals navigating depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and religious or betrayal trauma. Sarah is dedicated to offering individualized, evidence-based care in a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and supported.
Sarah Hernalsteen, LPC-Associate, is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Karen Christensen, LPC-S, LSOTP, CSAT at Rinnovare Counseling Center. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health and Counseling. She is particularly passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as individuals navigating depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and religious or betrayal trauma. Sarah is dedicated to offering individualized, evidence-based care in a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and supported.
(817) 686-3445 View (817) 686-3445
Photo of Jennifer Stracener, LPC-Associate, LPC-A, MMFT
Jennifer Stracener
LPC-Associate, LPC-A, MMFT
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Life can be overwhelming at times, with each day bringing its unique challenges—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. There is hope, healing, and freedom waiting for you! II am a trauma-informed LPC-Associate providing Bible-based counseling in the Grapevine/Southlake area, with the added convenience of telehealth sessions for clients across Texas.
Life can be overwhelming at times, with each day bringing its unique challenges—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. There is hope, healing, and freedom waiting for you! II am a trauma-informed LPC-Associate providing Bible-based counseling in the Grapevine/Southlake area, with the added convenience of telehealth sessions for clients across Texas.
(817) 904-9677 View (817) 904-9677
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Southlake, TX 76092
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(817) 612-5490 View (817) 612-5490
Photo of Katrina Will Colwick, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Katrina Will Colwick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
11 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Our lives are filled with both joy and sadness, comforts and fears, strengths and weaknesses. At times we may feel that the negativity in our lives is more than we can handle. Those are times when seeking out counseling can provide a great benefit. It is my great pleasure to work with many people to help them achieve their goals, find comfort and peace, and live well adjusted, fulfilling lives. I am blessed to have provided services to those needing help with: childhood disorders, grief, abuse, marriage and family conflict, bullying, stress management, parenting, faith crises, premarital and many more.
Our lives are filled with both joy and sadness, comforts and fears, strengths and weaknesses. At times we may feel that the negativity in our lives is more than we can handle. Those are times when seeking out counseling can provide a great benefit. It is my great pleasure to work with many people to help them achieve their goals, find comfort and peace, and live well adjusted, fulfilling lives. I am blessed to have provided services to those needing help with: childhood disorders, grief, abuse, marriage and family conflict, bullying, stress management, parenting, faith crises, premarital and many more.
(817) 756-9684 View (817) 756-9684
Photo of Ashlea Palafox, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C HYP, RTTP, BC-DMT
Ashlea Palafox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C HYP, RTTP, BC-DMT
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Are you running on fumes? You over-perform, over-give, and hardly leave anything for yourself... Maybe your home feels chaotic, or you and your child are stuck in a cycle that leaves everyone drained. Whatever the details, one thing’s clear: something has to change. I help overwhelmed, high-functioning women and parents regulate their nervous system so they can feel calmer, more present, and connected without forcing it. Imagine: Things start to feel lighter. You set boundaries without crumbling. Your kid has fewer meltdowns—and so do you.
Are you running on fumes? You over-perform, over-give, and hardly leave anything for yourself... Maybe your home feels chaotic, or you and your child are stuck in a cycle that leaves everyone drained. Whatever the details, one thing’s clear: something has to change. I help overwhelmed, high-functioning women and parents regulate their nervous system so they can feel calmer, more present, and connected without forcing it. Imagine: Things start to feel lighter. You set boundaries without crumbling. Your kid has fewer meltdowns—and so do you.
(817) 663-0068 View (817) 663-0068
Photo of Dolori Troutt, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Dolori Troutt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Southlake, TX 76092
Outside of work, DJ loves spending quality time with her son. He keeps her on her toes most days, but when she does get some personal time, she loves watching movies and tv shows, especially true crime documentaries. Additionally, she loves to travel and would consider herself a foodie. She loves going to new places and trying new foods.
Outside of work, DJ loves spending quality time with her son. He keeps her on her toes most days, but when she does get some personal time, she loves watching movies and tv shows, especially true crime documentaries. Additionally, she loves to travel and would consider herself a foodie. She loves going to new places and trying new foods.
(817) 646-1553 View (817) 646-1553

See more therapy options for Southlake

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Southlake, TX

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Southlake, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
93% Social Anxiety
93% Health Anxiety
93% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Southlake, TX see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Southlake?

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.