Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA

Photo of Dessie M Canelakes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Dessie M Canelakes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
There are times in life we need someone to help us navigate through our unsteady waters. I believe in the importance of mind, body, and soul health. The way we tell our life story, how we interact in our relationships, how we process/react to our feelings, and the meaning we give it all can have a huge impact on how we feel in our own skin. I want to help you create positive lasting changes within yourself and your relationships that will ultimately improve how you perceive your life.
There are times in life we need someone to help us navigate through our unsteady waters. I believe in the importance of mind, body, and soul health. The way we tell our life story, how we interact in our relationships, how we process/react to our feelings, and the meaning we give it all can have a huge impact on how we feel in our own skin. I want to help you create positive lasting changes within yourself and your relationships that will ultimately improve how you perceive your life.
(540) 217-4268 View (540) 217-4268
Photo of Chuck Richards, Pre-Licensed Professional in Harrisonburg, VA
Chuck Richards
Pre-Licensed Professional, Chuck Richards, MA, Resdt
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children between the ages of 5-16. I am accepting adults and Couples, who are looking for some support as they journey with eachother. I provide a safe and nurturing environment to help individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. I have extensive experience working with many children and families, from a variety of backgrounds and developmental stages. I take Medicaid and provide opportunities for clients to use a sliding scale to pay for services.
I specialize in working with children between the ages of 5-16. I am accepting adults and Couples, who are looking for some support as they journey with eachother. I provide a safe and nurturing environment to help individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. I have extensive experience working with many children and families, from a variety of backgrounds and developmental stages. I take Medicaid and provide opportunities for clients to use a sliding scale to pay for services.
(540) 208-3749 View (540) 208-3749
Photo of Kristen Fulton-Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisonburg, VA
Kristen Fulton-Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I believe strongly that everyone has the ability to overcome adversity, build resiliency, and achieve their goals. I work collaboratively with my clients to determine their own pathway forward using tools from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based CBT, and others as needed.
I believe strongly that everyone has the ability to overcome adversity, build resiliency, and achieve their goals. I work collaboratively with my clients to determine their own pathway forward using tools from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based CBT, and others as needed.
(540) 215-7342 View (540) 215-7342
Photo of Shenandoah Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Shenandoah Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LCSW, LCP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Now Accepting New Clients! All of our clinicians offer both in-person sessions and teletherapy. We work with children, adolescents, and adults in our Roanoke and Harrisonburg offices. Call our clinical coordinator at (540) 251-7728 ext. 1 to inquire about openings. Shenandoah Psychological Services offers an array of psychological and counseling options to suit your needs. We specialize in varying categories of counseling ranging from emotional and behavioral matters to substance abuse. We strive to offer the highest quality of psychological services in Roanoke city, the Shenandoah Valley, and surrounding areas.
Now Accepting New Clients! All of our clinicians offer both in-person sessions and teletherapy. We work with children, adolescents, and adults in our Roanoke and Harrisonburg offices. Call our clinical coordinator at (540) 251-7728 ext. 1 to inquire about openings. Shenandoah Psychological Services offers an array of psychological and counseling options to suit your needs. We specialize in varying categories of counseling ranging from emotional and behavioral matters to substance abuse. We strive to offer the highest quality of psychological services in Roanoke city, the Shenandoah Valley, and surrounding areas.
(540) 251-7728 View (540) 251-7728
Photo of Susan Swift, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Susan Swift
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Welcome! I believe that as humans we grow and learn in meaningful ways from the struggles we face. Working through the painful and confusing parts of life to find new levels of understanding is a challenging but rewarding process. I enjoy working with college students, women, and adults interested in a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship within which we can explore your particular challenges and struggles more deeply. I strive to create a feeling of acceptance and safety for all clients, and let them set the pace. I enjoy humor and believe it has healing properties.
Welcome! I believe that as humans we grow and learn in meaningful ways from the struggles we face. Working through the painful and confusing parts of life to find new levels of understanding is a challenging but rewarding process. I enjoy working with college students, women, and adults interested in a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship within which we can explore your particular challenges and struggles more deeply. I strive to create a feeling of acceptance and safety for all clients, and let them set the pace. I enjoy humor and believe it has healing properties.
(540) 426-3969 View (540) 426-3969
Photo of Kaiwen Liu, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Kaiwen Liu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Friendly City Psychology. I take an integrative, collaborative, and flexible approach to therapy. I am passionate about creating a safe space where clients can cultivate curiosity about their internal experiences, understand relational dynamics, and develop skills to regulate powerful emotions and change unhealthy patterns. I also help clients address sociocultural factors relevant to their daily lives, such as acculturation, systemic racism, white supremacist culture, etc.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Friendly City Psychology. I take an integrative, collaborative, and flexible approach to therapy. I am passionate about creating a safe space where clients can cultivate curiosity about their internal experiences, understand relational dynamics, and develop skills to regulate powerful emotions and change unhealthy patterns. I also help clients address sociocultural factors relevant to their daily lives, such as acculturation, systemic racism, white supremacist culture, etc.
(540) 516-4405 View (540) 516-4405
Photo of Robin C Windsor, Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Robin C Windsor
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Accepting New Clients. I offer HIPPA compliant online video counseling sessions as well as in-person sessions. Depression, anxiety and adjustment issues are areas in which I have extensive experience. Adult Children of Alcoholics and persons dealing with narcissitic abuse are specialty areas in which I work. I have a great affinity for working with clients who are suffering with grief and loss issues such as a death or loss of a relationship. I enjoy working with active duty military members, their families and veterans. I also offer supervision for LPC licensure (Board Approved). Please e-mail for appointment.
Accepting New Clients. I offer HIPPA compliant online video counseling sessions as well as in-person sessions. Depression, anxiety and adjustment issues are areas in which I have extensive experience. Adult Children of Alcoholics and persons dealing with narcissitic abuse are specialty areas in which I work. I have a great affinity for working with clients who are suffering with grief and loss issues such as a death or loss of a relationship. I enjoy working with active duty military members, their families and veterans. I also offer supervision for LPC licensure (Board Approved). Please e-mail for appointment.
(540) 426-3517 View (540) 426-3517
Photo of Kate Meade, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Kate Meade
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
One of my core beliefs as a therapist is that there is power and healing in our human connections, in the words and lived experiences we share with one another. Therapy is a space for you to share your story and your experiences, and for us to work together to identify and address your unique needs. I work collaboratively with my clients to create this space and foster growth through warmth, humor, vulnerability, authenticity, and the relationship we build together. My goal is to create a space that is safe and supportive of your whole self and embraces all of your identities.
One of my core beliefs as a therapist is that there is power and healing in our human connections, in the words and lived experiences we share with one another. Therapy is a space for you to share your story and your experiences, and for us to work together to identify and address your unique needs. I work collaboratively with my clients to create this space and foster growth through warmth, humor, vulnerability, authenticity, and the relationship we build together. My goal is to create a space that is safe and supportive of your whole self and embraces all of your identities.
(540) 787-2152 View (540) 787-2152
Photo of Becky Snead, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Becky Snead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Welcome! Reaching out is hard. I'm glad you're here. Throughout my career, I have assisted adults dealing with a wide range of issues, including anxiety and depression, trauma, grief, and identity development. I strive to create a genuine, trusting therapeutic alliance with my clients, where they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. With extensive training and experience in client-centered and emotion-focused therapies, I offer a safe, warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore emotions, gain insight into thoughts and behaviors, and identify strengths to manage life's challenges.
Welcome! Reaching out is hard. I'm glad you're here. Throughout my career, I have assisted adults dealing with a wide range of issues, including anxiety and depression, trauma, grief, and identity development. I strive to create a genuine, trusting therapeutic alliance with my clients, where they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. With extensive training and experience in client-centered and emotion-focused therapies, I offer a safe, warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore emotions, gain insight into thoughts and behaviors, and identify strengths to manage life's challenges.
(540) 625-1404 View (540) 625-1404
Photo of Tamala K Gilardi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisonburg, VA
Tamala K Gilardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
My goal is to provide a therapy experience that is predicated upon compassion, enthusiasm and creativity. I understand that change can be uncomfortable and my treatment philosophy is to provide a supportive and safe therapeutic environment.
My goal is to provide a therapy experience that is predicated upon compassion, enthusiasm and creativity. I understand that change can be uncomfortable and my treatment philosophy is to provide a supportive and safe therapeutic environment.
(540) 426-3757 x1 View (540) 426-3757 x1
Photo of Sean Slevin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harrisonburg, VA
Sean Slevin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
~ Counseling tailored to your Personality, from a Christian Perspective, & with a Neurobiological understanding of Lasting Change ~ I understand firsthand the courage required to ask for help. You are taking an important step in pursuing counseling today. ~ I use my understanding of personality types to tailor counseling to your specific needs. We are all unique, and my desire is to help each person become more fully whomever they are meant to be. I use my knowledge of the various strengths and weaknesses of each personality type to help you build on your strengths, and to have compassion for your weaknesses.
~ Counseling tailored to your Personality, from a Christian Perspective, & with a Neurobiological understanding of Lasting Change ~ I understand firsthand the courage required to ask for help. You are taking an important step in pursuing counseling today. ~ I use my understanding of personality types to tailor counseling to your specific needs. We are all unique, and my desire is to help each person become more fully whomever they are meant to be. I use my knowledge of the various strengths and weaknesses of each personality type to help you build on your strengths, and to have compassion for your weaknesses.
Photo of Maria Whitmore Smith, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Maria Whitmore Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a therapist is to provide quality, evidence-based care in the context of a warm and comfortable environment. I use a cognitive-behavioral approach to address a wide range of issues, and have experience working with children and adolescents, as well as adults and couples/families.
My goal as a therapist is to provide quality, evidence-based care in the context of a warm and comfortable environment. I use a cognitive-behavioral approach to address a wide range of issues, and have experience working with children and adolescents, as well as adults and couples/families.
(540) 288-4619 View (540) 288-4619
Photo of Michelle S Beverly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Michelle S Beverly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
“Courage does not always roar.” Tomi Adeymi. As we are faced with daily obstacles and life challenges, we must dig down to find the courage to move forward. At times, courage does not present itself as a roaring lion but as a small quiet voice that cannot be extinguished as it guides us along the pathway of life. I am here to help you find your voice in this journey.
“Courage does not always roar.” Tomi Adeymi. As we are faced with daily obstacles and life challenges, we must dig down to find the courage to move forward. At times, courage does not present itself as a roaring lion but as a small quiet voice that cannot be extinguished as it guides us along the pathway of life. I am here to help you find your voice in this journey.
(540) 534-0748 View (540) 534-0748
Photo of Jerrod Koon, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Jerrod Koon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
We are a group practice and have a diverse team of clinicians who are accepting new clients. It takes time and energy to improve the quality of your life & relationships, become the type of person you want to be, and change how you think and feel about yourself. It is possible to create opportunities for happiness and fulfillment in your life. You don't have to do it alone. I have extensive experience working with people who struggle with fears and phobias, worry, social anxiety, depression, people who chronically doubt themself, struggle making themself a priority, and have challenges with setting healthy boundaries.
We are a group practice and have a diverse team of clinicians who are accepting new clients. It takes time and energy to improve the quality of your life & relationships, become the type of person you want to be, and change how you think and feel about yourself. It is possible to create opportunities for happiness and fulfillment in your life. You don't have to do it alone. I have extensive experience working with people who struggle with fears and phobias, worry, social anxiety, depression, people who chronically doubt themself, struggle making themself a priority, and have challenges with setting healthy boundaries.
(540) 208-2280 View (540) 208-2280
Photo of Amanda Casius, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Amanda Casius
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am Amanda Casius and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in adolescents and adults.. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and transition issues. My job as a counselor is to assist my clients in reaching their goals. I want my clients to be in control of their life versus their symptoms and struggles being in control of them. I believe we can all reach our goals and live a fulfilled life, we just need a helping hand to clear the path and see our way a bit better.
Hello! I am Amanda Casius and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in adolescents and adults.. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and transition issues. My job as a counselor is to assist my clients in reaching their goals. I want my clients to be in control of their life versus their symptoms and struggles being in control of them. I believe we can all reach our goals and live a fulfilled life, we just need a helping hand to clear the path and see our way a bit better.
(540) 560-2963 View (540) 560-2963
Photo of Cassandra Kennell, Psychologist in Harrisonburg, VA
Cassandra Kennell
Psychologist, PsyD, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I enjoy working from an integrative approach, meaning I believe there is no one therapeutic modality that suits every client. However, underlying most of my approaches is an attachment perspective. Sadly, far too many of our relationships fall short of giving us a sense of being loved and belonging. We end up living too much of our lives caught in our own or other's perfectionism, passivity, anger, fear, judgment, shame, withdrawal, disinterest, betrayal, abuse, or worse. The harder we try to rid our relationships of these problems, the more unloved and alone we feel.
I enjoy working from an integrative approach, meaning I believe there is no one therapeutic modality that suits every client. However, underlying most of my approaches is an attachment perspective. Sadly, far too many of our relationships fall short of giving us a sense of being loved and belonging. We end up living too much of our lives caught in our own or other's perfectionism, passivity, anger, fear, judgment, shame, withdrawal, disinterest, betrayal, abuse, or worse. The harder we try to rid our relationships of these problems, the more unloved and alone we feel.
(540) 251-7728 View (540) 251-7728
Photo of Karen Herrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Karen Herrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in behavioral, identity and emotional challenges. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from James Madison University and my Master's degree in Mental Health from Eastern Mennonite University. I have experience working with youth and families who are involved with foster care and adoption, youth who had physical, sexual and abusive trauma histories as well as children with attachment issues. I also have experience working with people is all ages who have anxiety and depression.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in behavioral, identity and emotional challenges. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from James Madison University and my Master's degree in Mental Health from Eastern Mennonite University. I have experience working with youth and families who are involved with foster care and adoption, youth who had physical, sexual and abusive trauma histories as well as children with attachment issues. I also have experience working with people is all ages who have anxiety and depression.
(540) 215-8243 View (540) 215-8243
Photo of Austin C Francis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Austin C Francis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Now offering equine therapy add-on services! I am a licensed professional counselor in Harrisonburg, VA with specialized training for trauma counseling and equine therapy. I work with all ages, but particularly enjoy working with teens/young adults, as I feel they need the most support in learning about relationships, identity, and building a healthy sense of self as they move into adulthood. At any age, I enjoy taking that journey alongside my clients as they build awareness of their inner world impacts the relationships around them, so that they can connect back to the parts of self from which they may have disconnected.
Now offering equine therapy add-on services! I am a licensed professional counselor in Harrisonburg, VA with specialized training for trauma counseling and equine therapy. I work with all ages, but particularly enjoy working with teens/young adults, as I feel they need the most support in learning about relationships, identity, and building a healthy sense of self as they move into adulthood. At any age, I enjoy taking that journey alongside my clients as they build awareness of their inner world impacts the relationships around them, so that they can connect back to the parts of self from which they may have disconnected.
(540) 253-1679 View (540) 253-1679
Photo of Kimberly P Bickford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Kimberly P Bickford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
If you are trying to manage intrusive worries, sadness, or grief, it's possible your body and mind may be signaling a need for greater attention and care. Often this is our soul's way of asking for a deeper connection to ourselves and others. Reaching out for support requires courage and some willingness to be vulnerable. If you are ready, we will begin by developing a secure foundation based on identifying and honoring your strengths and resilience before exploring difficult topics. We will take an approach that includes a somatic awareness which invites you to notice what's rising inside your body, not just your mind.
If you are trying to manage intrusive worries, sadness, or grief, it's possible your body and mind may be signaling a need for greater attention and care. Often this is our soul's way of asking for a deeper connection to ourselves and others. Reaching out for support requires courage and some willingness to be vulnerable. If you are ready, we will begin by developing a secure foundation based on identifying and honoring your strengths and resilience before exploring difficult topics. We will take an approach that includes a somatic awareness which invites you to notice what's rising inside your body, not just your mind.
(540) 585-1917 View (540) 585-1917
Photo of Sarah Harper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisonburg, VA
Sarah Harper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Not accepting new clients
We all experience difficulties, and counseling can be a place to receive support and healing amidst challenging times. Are you struggling with fear of the unknown, a relationship strain, overwhelming emotions, identity concerns, or new life circumstances? Do you want to increase your understanding of why you think, behave, and respond the way you do? Are you interested in exploring your inner world to make positive changes in your life?
We all experience difficulties, and counseling can be a place to receive support and healing amidst challenging times. Are you struggling with fear of the unknown, a relationship strain, overwhelming emotions, identity concerns, or new life circumstances? Do you want to increase your understanding of why you think, behave, and respond the way you do? Are you interested in exploring your inner world to make positive changes in your life?
(540) 208-1698 View (540) 208-1698

See more therapy options for Harrisonburg

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
77% Stress
74% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Anthem | Elevance
79% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Harrisonburg, VA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Harrisonburg?

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.