Photo of Brenda Perry, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brenda Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My approach to therapy is based on developing a deep emotional connection with the people in our lives, improving self-esteem, accessing inner resources to cope with difficulties and learning to have compassion for ourselves and others. Although therapy can be very helpful when we are going through a difficult time in our lives, it is also an important self-care practice. Just like we attend yoga or the gym to take care of our bodies, taking care of our emotional and mental health is just as important. For me, wellness needs to be holistic, both body and mind need to be treated to truly achieve inner peace and fulfillment.
My approach to therapy is based on developing a deep emotional connection with the people in our lives, improving self-esteem, accessing inner resources to cope with difficulties and learning to have compassion for ourselves and others. Although therapy can be very helpful when we are going through a difficult time in our lives, it is also an important self-care practice. Just like we attend yoga or the gym to take care of our bodies, taking care of our emotional and mental health is just as important. For me, wellness needs to be holistic, both body and mind need to be treated to truly achieve inner peace and fulfillment.
(424) 301-8996 View (424) 301-8996
Photo of Victoria Penton, LPCC
Victoria Penton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting people through challenging seasons and love to help individuals work through relationship difficulties, communication struggles, stress, and burnout. I have significant clinical experience in providing support to clients experiencing depression, anxiety, women's issues, and family conflicts. Please reach out if you think this may be a good fit for your needs, I'd love to meet you!
I am passionate about supporting people through challenging seasons and love to help individuals work through relationship difficulties, communication struggles, stress, and burnout. I have significant clinical experience in providing support to clients experiencing depression, anxiety, women's issues, and family conflicts. Please reach out if you think this may be a good fit for your needs, I'd love to meet you!
(424) 292-8775 View (424) 292-8775
Photo of Tiffany White, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I am so excited that you are taking the steps to initiate change in your life! It is important to find a therapist who is right for you and can support you on your journey. I am very direct, supportive, strength-based, and goal-oriented, but I am also mindful to support you where you are at. I believe in the transformative power of change through consistent self-investment. I have extensive experience working with individuals with a variety of therapeutic goals and have seen many of the individuals I've collaborated with achieve the life they worked towards.
I am so excited that you are taking the steps to initiate change in your life! It is important to find a therapist who is right for you and can support you on your journey. I am very direct, supportive, strength-based, and goal-oriented, but I am also mindful to support you where you are at. I believe in the transformative power of change through consistent self-investment. I have extensive experience working with individuals with a variety of therapeutic goals and have seen many of the individuals I've collaborated with achieve the life they worked towards.
(949) 828-6152 View (949) 828-6152
Photo of Dr. Jessie Caldera, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jessie Caldera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Living in a changing and challenging world, it is normal to experience psychological dysregulation at one point or another. The new reality of living has presented and will continue to present numerous challenges. I assist patients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety (including school, personal or work-induced – social anxiety), behavioral issues, adjustment disorders, maternal mental health, trauma, and relational challenges. I have worked within the mental health field since 2006 and developed my skills and expertise working with children, adults, and older adults.
Living in a changing and challenging world, it is normal to experience psychological dysregulation at one point or another. The new reality of living has presented and will continue to present numerous challenges. I assist patients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety (including school, personal or work-induced – social anxiety), behavioral issues, adjustment disorders, maternal mental health, trauma, and relational challenges. I have worked within the mental health field since 2006 and developed my skills and expertise working with children, adults, and older adults.
(310) 905-3151 View (310) 905-3151
Photo of Jennifer Patton Crichton, PsyD, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Patton Crichton
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Not Verified Not Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Life can be challenging... no matter how old you are. I am currently serving as a behavioral coach within the South Bay Child and Family Therapy practice. I specialize in adjustment difficulties, behavioral intervention, and healthy life transitions. I provide behavioral intervention for children, adolescents, and adults. I also have extensive experience working with children who have special needs, and I am knowledgeable about the special education eligibility process.
Life can be challenging... no matter how old you are. I am currently serving as a behavioral coach within the South Bay Child and Family Therapy practice. I specialize in adjustment difficulties, behavioral intervention, and healthy life transitions. I provide behavioral intervention for children, adolescents, and adults. I also have extensive experience working with children who have special needs, and I am knowledgeable about the special education eligibility process.
(424) 275-2863 View (424) 275-2863
Photo of O Sun Yoo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
O Sun Yoo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and together, we can work on reconnecting with that "you" at your best. At times, we lose sight of ourselves; we take on too much, we skip meals, sacrifice sleep, and simply don't take care of ourselves. We lose our connection to our innate "superpowers" and we need to reset, reboot and restart. We will address self-care, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, boundary setting, and exploring and increasing wellness in your life.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and together, we can work on reconnecting with that "you" at your best. At times, we lose sight of ourselves; we take on too much, we skip meals, sacrifice sleep, and simply don't take care of ourselves. We lose our connection to our innate "superpowers" and we need to reset, reboot and restart. We will address self-care, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, boundary setting, and exploring and increasing wellness in your life.
(408) 440-5403 View (408) 440-5403
Photo of Daniella Borah, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniella Borah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Maybe you've tried couples therapy before, maybe you have tried talking to friends and family, maybe you have read lots of self help books but nothing seems to be changing, have exhausted all resources and now are looking outside for someone to help you and your partner get back to the place where you feel on top of the world? It is one of the most painful places to be when you are in a relationship where you feel that you are not being heard or validated, like you and your partner just keep missing each other. Did you know that the average couple waits SIX years before they seek out professional help.
Maybe you've tried couples therapy before, maybe you have tried talking to friends and family, maybe you have read lots of self help books but nothing seems to be changing, have exhausted all resources and now are looking outside for someone to help you and your partner get back to the place where you feel on top of the world? It is one of the most painful places to be when you are in a relationship where you feel that you are not being heard or validated, like you and your partner just keep missing each other. Did you know that the average couple waits SIX years before they seek out professional help.
(818) 495-8374 View (818) 495-8374
Photo of Alyson Hinz, MS, LPCC
Alyson Hinz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who uses a creative and integrative approach to keep you engaged in therapy. I look forward to providing you a safe place to start setting achievable goals! My primary platform is virtual, which I believe can offer flexibility and access, whether you are a college student looking for a session in between classes, or just seeking support from the comfort of your home. Therapy can be great place to start exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with no judgment or bias.
Welcome! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who uses a creative and integrative approach to keep you engaged in therapy. I look forward to providing you a safe place to start setting achievable goals! My primary platform is virtual, which I believe can offer flexibility and access, whether you are a college student looking for a session in between classes, or just seeking support from the comfort of your home. Therapy can be great place to start exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with no judgment or bias.
(424) 955-6014 View (424) 955-6014
Photo of Sierra Rose Brown, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sierra Rose Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
(424) 383-5128 View (424) 383-5128
Photo of Marissa Velasco-Adania, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marissa Velasco-Adania
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I know how scary it can be to reach out for help and let someone in on your struggles. It can feel devestating when your life feels like it's not working. The guilt and overwhelm that comes when your attempts to make changes fall short. This is why I believe therapy can be so helpful. My role is to support you through the ebs and flows of life as well as provide you a trustworthy therapeutic relationship to work through past and present experiences or stuck points in relationships that are keeping you from feeling fulfilled.
I know how scary it can be to reach out for help and let someone in on your struggles. It can feel devestating when your life feels like it's not working. The guilt and overwhelm that comes when your attempts to make changes fall short. This is why I believe therapy can be so helpful. My role is to support you through the ebs and flows of life as well as provide you a trustworthy therapeutic relationship to work through past and present experiences or stuck points in relationships that are keeping you from feeling fulfilled.
(424) 484-7111 View (424) 484-7111
Photo of Brandi Michelle Romero, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandi Michelle Romero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Available 8am-2pm on Weekdays! Brandi loves to work with all humans working through related to self-worth, relationships, identity, anxiety, etc. Brandi wants to provide that safe space that may be missing. Her goal is to help adults become introspective and limit the recreation of learned patterns. Brandi also loves to work with children and adolescents ages 7-17 around numerous issues, including, but not limited to: relationships/friendships, exploration, identity, self-esteem, anxiety, fears, and finding their voice. Brandi is dedicated to helping them become strong and healthy humans before they lead lives fully on their own.
Available 8am-2pm on Weekdays! Brandi loves to work with all humans working through related to self-worth, relationships, identity, anxiety, etc. Brandi wants to provide that safe space that may be missing. Her goal is to help adults become introspective and limit the recreation of learned patterns. Brandi also loves to work with children and adolescents ages 7-17 around numerous issues, including, but not limited to: relationships/friendships, exploration, identity, self-esteem, anxiety, fears, and finding their voice. Brandi is dedicated to helping them become strong and healthy humans before they lead lives fully on their own.
(310) 846-0477 View (310) 846-0477
Photo of Victoria (Tori) Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria (Tori) Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
If you've been feeling more anxious than usual and sometimes totally numbed out, I want to meet you. Because you tend to experience your life and your emotions very deeply, you were often told you were “the sensitive one” growing up, and it wasn't used as a compliment. Let's rewrite that narrative together. I'm here to help you understand your mind-body connection so that you can use your sensitivity to your advantage.
If you've been feeling more anxious than usual and sometimes totally numbed out, I want to meet you. Because you tend to experience your life and your emotions very deeply, you were often told you were “the sensitive one” growing up, and it wasn't used as a compliment. Let's rewrite that narrative together. I'm here to help you understand your mind-body connection so that you can use your sensitivity to your advantage.
(310) 504-6624 View (310) 504-6624
Photo of Whitney Boole, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whitney Boole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
If you are ready to create meaningful change in your life, your mood, or your relationships, call or email me. I get to know my clients and help them identify and use the tools they need to tackle their struggles. I will stand beside you and help you make the change in your life, your mood, and your relationships that you want and need. My office is across the street from the beach which allows me to offer Walk & Talk sessions by the beach in addition to office appointments.
If you are ready to create meaningful change in your life, your mood, or your relationships, call or email me. I get to know my clients and help them identify and use the tools they need to tackle their struggles. I will stand beside you and help you make the change in your life, your mood, and your relationships that you want and need. My office is across the street from the beach which allows me to offer Walk & Talk sessions by the beach in addition to office appointments.
(310) 879-5162 View (310) 879-5162
Photo of John Webber, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Webber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I'm here to listen and help, daytime, evenings after work, and Saturdays. I treat teens, adults, couples, and families. I offer counseling and life-coaching for ordinary everyday challenges, and therapy for relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, or a traumatic experience. I also treat those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. You'll find comfort to explore these aspects and identify solutions that help you feel better, develop greater self-awareness, self-compassion, and healthier relationships.
I'm here to listen and help, daytime, evenings after work, and Saturdays. I treat teens, adults, couples, and families. I offer counseling and life-coaching for ordinary everyday challenges, and therapy for relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, or a traumatic experience. I also treat those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. You'll find comfort to explore these aspects and identify solutions that help you feel better, develop greater self-awareness, self-compassion, and healthier relationships.
(310) 846-8146 View (310) 846-8146
Photo of Ken Cohen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ken Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
When someone is in our corner and believes in us, I believe we are capable of overcoming any obstacle and of fulfilling our desires; we are capable of creating a satisfying life. I try to be that person as a therapist, offering interest, care, concern and compassion. I also challenge my clients to be their best selves. I have learned that each of us has a higher, deeper self that we can draw from. I see my work with you as helping you to connect with this part of yourself. I am down to earth, fully human and present with you as we work together. I offer safety, warmth acceptance and honesty to help you grow.
When someone is in our corner and believes in us, I believe we are capable of overcoming any obstacle and of fulfilling our desires; we are capable of creating a satisfying life. I try to be that person as a therapist, offering interest, care, concern and compassion. I also challenge my clients to be their best selves. I have learned that each of us has a higher, deeper self that we can draw from. I see my work with you as helping you to connect with this part of yourself. I am down to earth, fully human and present with you as we work together. I offer safety, warmth acceptance and honesty to help you grow.
(310) 986-4150 View (310) 986-4150
Photo of Kryss Castle, MS, LMFT, EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kryss Castle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Teens are fabulous in all their glory and craziness! Helping teens and young adults find their courage to transform, change ways that don’t serve them, and be who they are is my passion. I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. In addition to in-office sessions, I’ve worked in more than ten schools throughout the South Bay providing group and individual therapy to students. I also work with adults and professionals in high-stress careers who have come to a crossroads with a relationship or career, are struggling with stress and anxiety, or are having trouble finding passion and purpose in their lives.
Teens are fabulous in all their glory and craziness! Helping teens and young adults find their courage to transform, change ways that don’t serve them, and be who they are is my passion. I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. In addition to in-office sessions, I’ve worked in more than ten schools throughout the South Bay providing group and individual therapy to students. I also work with adults and professionals in high-stress careers who have come to a crossroads with a relationship or career, are struggling with stress and anxiety, or are having trouble finding passion and purpose in their lives.
(424) 543-0606 View (424) 543-0606
Photo of Shawn Klein, MFT, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawn Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, having relationship difficulties or need guidance and support in your life? As a therapist for over 25 years, I have effectively helped many individuals and couples with an insight and solution based therapy. I tailor the therapy to fit each individual’s needs by combining a compassionate approach with expertise and direct feedback. I’m trained in individual therapy, couple and family system dynamics and have an advanced degree in depth psychology.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, having relationship difficulties or need guidance and support in your life? As a therapist for over 25 years, I have effectively helped many individuals and couples with an insight and solution based therapy. I tailor the therapy to fit each individual’s needs by combining a compassionate approach with expertise and direct feedback. I’m trained in individual therapy, couple and family system dynamics and have an advanced degree in depth psychology.
(747) 223-8729 View (747) 223-8729
Photo of Allysha Arora, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allysha Arora
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Whether it is for you or a loved one, I am here to help individuals move through and cope with life's many challenges and transitions. There are many stressors that cause anxiety, shame, anger, and so many other overwhelming feelings making it difficult to move through the world. I am here to provide a space of safety and acceptance for clients to explore those feelings with support of compassion and authenticity. I work with adolescents and adults who are wanting and willing to make those first steps toward positive change.
Whether it is for you or a loved one, I am here to help individuals move through and cope with life's many challenges and transitions. There are many stressors that cause anxiety, shame, anger, and so many other overwhelming feelings making it difficult to move through the world. I am here to provide a space of safety and acceptance for clients to explore those feelings with support of compassion and authenticity. I work with adolescents and adults who are wanting and willing to make those first steps toward positive change.
(424) 399-5218 View (424) 399-5218
Photo of Sharon Johnson-Magar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Johnson-Magar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
As an eclectic therapist, I am skilled at meeting the client where they are currently, drawing from all clinical modalities that may be appropriate and helpful to the client. I am warm, directive, engaging, and psychodynamic in orientation and style. I believe in the power of empathy and understanding to foster growth and healing. Finding a balance between self-care and life's demands is where I thrive, making it my "sweet spot" for vibrant living. Guiding others in this journey is not just my profession — it's my passion.
As an eclectic therapist, I am skilled at meeting the client where they are currently, drawing from all clinical modalities that may be appropriate and helpful to the client. I am warm, directive, engaging, and psychodynamic in orientation and style. I believe in the power of empathy and understanding to foster growth and healing. Finding a balance between self-care and life's demands is where I thrive, making it my "sweet spot" for vibrant living. Guiding others in this journey is not just my profession — it's my passion.
(424) 677-1685 View (424) 677-1685
Photo of Alia Elasmar, LMFT, MS, PPS, CWA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alia Elasmar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, PPS, CWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
As a kid, you color with reckless abandon. You show up as you are & at some point, vulnerability & authenticity becomes more difficult to attain as life unfolds. Sometimes, we’re dealt terrible cards with no guidance on how to play our hand. Our identities become enmeshed in the tragedies that we have experienced & those who have harmed us. I want to help you &/or your loved ones reconnect in a world that makes it hard to reach out & thrive by being a bridge, connecting you to the pieces of yourself that may have wandered while you were trying to survive.
As a kid, you color with reckless abandon. You show up as you are & at some point, vulnerability & authenticity becomes more difficult to attain as life unfolds. Sometimes, we’re dealt terrible cards with no guidance on how to play our hand. Our identities become enmeshed in the tragedies that we have experienced & those who have harmed us. I want to help you &/or your loved ones reconnect in a world that makes it hard to reach out & thrive by being a bridge, connecting you to the pieces of yourself that may have wandered while you were trying to survive.
(424) 378-4968 View (424) 378-4968
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90254

300+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 90254 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
68% Life Transitions
64% Trauma and PTSD
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

61% Aetna
59% Cigna and Evernorth
47% Elevance

How Therapists in 90254 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90254?

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.