Therapists in Leesburg, VA

Photo of Heather Hwang, Resident in Counseling, MA
Heather Hwang
Resident in Counseling, MA
Leesburg, VA 20175
You might be used to holding everything in or handling things on your own, but you don’t have to do that here. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard, understood, and safe to share what’s on your mind. You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy, and you don’t have to show up perfect. I’ve spent several years in the mental health field and bring a warm, supportive, grounded approach to our work together. I enjoy working with young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, overthinking, self-doubt, and feeling stuck in exhausting cycles.
You might be used to holding everything in or handling things on your own, but you don’t have to do that here. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard, understood, and safe to share what’s on your mind. You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy, and you don’t have to show up perfect. I’ve spent several years in the mental health field and bring a warm, supportive, grounded approach to our work together. I enjoy working with young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, overthinking, self-doubt, and feeling stuck in exhausting cycles.
(540) 709-8469 View (540) 709-8469
Photo of Cathy Wanamaker, Psychologist, PhD
Cathy Wanamaker
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I am a down-to-earth person who understands the issues that people face. In treatment, I am comfortable giving the feedback and direction you need to help you make the changes you want in your life. While therapy can be difficult, I believe it also can be enjoyable. To that end, I use humor, playfulness, and creativity, along with psychoeducation and traditional psychotherapy practices. You will find that I will do all I can to support guide you as you go through this process.
I am a down-to-earth person who understands the issues that people face. In treatment, I am comfortable giving the feedback and direction you need to help you make the changes you want in your life. While therapy can be difficult, I believe it also can be enjoyable. To that end, I use humor, playfulness, and creativity, along with psychoeducation and traditional psychotherapy practices. You will find that I will do all I can to support guide you as you go through this process.
(703) 291-3700 View (703) 291-3700
Photo of Diana Francesca Hott - Diana F. Hott, LCSW CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Diana F. Hott, LCSW CEAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Leesburg, VA 20175
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task! You may have never tried therapy before, or you have tried therapy before and been disappointed. With over 35 years of experience, I offer a safe, knowledgeable, outcome-oriented treatment approach, tailored to your needs. My proficiency includes the areas of grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, self- esteem, parenting, interpersonal and couples' issues. I also work in the employee assistance arena, covering areas of work/life balance and stress management. Please check for more information on my website.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task! You may have never tried therapy before, or you have tried therapy before and been disappointed. With over 35 years of experience, I offer a safe, knowledgeable, outcome-oriented treatment approach, tailored to your needs. My proficiency includes the areas of grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, self- esteem, parenting, interpersonal and couples' issues. I also work in the employee assistance arena, covering areas of work/life balance and stress management. Please check for more information on my website.
(703) 594-8016 View (703) 594-8016
Photo of Lori A McKinley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Lori A McKinley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you feel supported and understood. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can quiet self-criticism, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with your inner strength.
In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help you feel supported and understood. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can quiet self-criticism, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with your inner strength.
(540) 802-4792 View (540) 802-4792
Photo of Iliana Fernandez, MT-BC
Iliana Fernandez
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you ever feel like you can’t fully be yourself? As a bicultural Latina, living between cultures can be confusing, exhausting, and isolating. You’re constantly navigating the pressure of family expectations while trying to define your own identity and it can feel like there’s never space to show up as your whole self. Your experience is complex and deeply personal and your therapy should honor that.
Do you ever feel like you can’t fully be yourself? As a bicultural Latina, living between cultures can be confusing, exhausting, and isolating. You’re constantly navigating the pressure of family expectations while trying to define your own identity and it can feel like there’s never space to show up as your whole self. Your experience is complex and deeply personal and your therapy should honor that.
(540) 503-3120 View (540) 503-3120
Photo of Jeffrey Shinal, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, BS Acc, LPC, LCPC
Jeffrey Shinal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, BS Acc, LPC, LCPC
4 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Our world can feel increasingly uncertain - whether from work stress, relationship challenges, economic pressure, or global unrest – it is easy to turn our struggles inward, meeting them with self-judgement instead of understanding. What if you had a forum where you could easily talk about both your emotional and, if needed, your financial stressors? When we explore our history and experiences we can uncover and address what is or is not to working, and create a plan for growth and happiness. Working with a supportive and attentive counselor can reduce this distress, build resilience, and enhance your overall well-being.
Our world can feel increasingly uncertain - whether from work stress, relationship challenges, economic pressure, or global unrest – it is easy to turn our struggles inward, meeting them with self-judgement instead of understanding. What if you had a forum where you could easily talk about both your emotional and, if needed, your financial stressors? When we explore our history and experiences we can uncover and address what is or is not to working, and create a plan for growth and happiness. Working with a supportive and attentive counselor can reduce this distress, build resilience, and enhance your overall well-being.
(703) 343-9036 View (703) 343-9036
Photo of Bronwyn Duffy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bronwyn Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I work with adolescents, adults, and families. My style is straightforward and collaborative. I am always willing to do short-term, results-oriented work, but I relish as well the opportunity to do longer-term work, which allows for the working-through of old hurts and for the gradual discovery of new ways to relate to ourselves, others, and our lives. At its best, therapy is a creative and richly rewarding endeavor. Clients over the years have reported that they find in me warmth, pragmatism, a keen mind, and a willingness to laugh and to be human.
I work with adolescents, adults, and families. My style is straightforward and collaborative. I am always willing to do short-term, results-oriented work, but I relish as well the opportunity to do longer-term work, which allows for the working-through of old hurts and for the gradual discovery of new ways to relate to ourselves, others, and our lives. At its best, therapy is a creative and richly rewarding endeavor. Clients over the years have reported that they find in me warmth, pragmatism, a keen mind, and a willingness to laugh and to be human.
(703) 994-4990 View (703) 994-4990
Photo of Sarena Ferguson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sarena Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Is your child feeling stuck in a whirlwind of big emotions or struggling to find their way? I specialize in helping kids, preteens, and teens navigate the rollercoaster of emotional ups and downs. Whether it’s outbursts of anger, perfectionism, or that little voice of negative self-talk, I’m here to create a space where your child can untangle their feelings and learn to thrive. Therapy with me is a blend of creativity, warmth, and evidence-based tools designed to meet them where they are—and take them where they want to go. I will help your child feel safe, supported, and—dare I say it—excited to explore their emotions!
Is your child feeling stuck in a whirlwind of big emotions or struggling to find their way? I specialize in helping kids, preteens, and teens navigate the rollercoaster of emotional ups and downs. Whether it’s outbursts of anger, perfectionism, or that little voice of negative self-talk, I’m here to create a space where your child can untangle their feelings and learn to thrive. Therapy with me is a blend of creativity, warmth, and evidence-based tools designed to meet them where they are—and take them where they want to go. I will help your child feel safe, supported, and—dare I say it—excited to explore their emotions!
(703) 844-3399 View (703) 844-3399
Photo of Dylan Beckner - Beckner Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beckner Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Beckner Counseling, LLC is an outpatient private practice that provides Evidence-Based treatment in Leesburg, VA and the surrounding areas! We are a group of 5 clinical therapists with over 25 years of combined experience. We assist clients (ages 7+) in overcoming symptoms related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, perinatal mental health, trauma, women's issues, marital struggles, and more. We believe that everyone is capable of healing.
Beckner Counseling, LLC is an outpatient private practice that provides Evidence-Based treatment in Leesburg, VA and the surrounding areas! We are a group of 5 clinical therapists with over 25 years of combined experience. We assist clients (ages 7+) in overcoming symptoms related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, perinatal mental health, trauma, women's issues, marital struggles, and more. We believe that everyone is capable of healing.
(703) 485-4058 View (703) 485-4058
Photo of Robert Verdile, Psychologist, PhD
Robert Verdile
Psychologist, PhD
Leesburg, VA 20175
My practice is equally divided between the disciplines of psychotherapy and psychological testing. While my understanding of psychological distress is rooted in psychodynamic principles, I use cogntive behavioral techniques to assist clinets. I accept referrals for evaluation of attention deficit disorder and learning disorder and for diagnosis of psychiatric disorders.
My practice is equally divided between the disciplines of psychotherapy and psychological testing. While my understanding of psychological distress is rooted in psychodynamic principles, I use cogntive behavioral techniques to assist clinets. I accept referrals for evaluation of attention deficit disorder and learning disorder and for diagnosis of psychiatric disorders.
(703) 988-6432 View (703) 988-6432
Photo of Angela Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in helping clients cultivate coping skills and gain insight into issues to improve relationships, functioning and quality of life. I obtained my Master's Degree at Virginia Commonwealth University and have twenty years experience working in various mental health settings, including Loudoun County Mental Health (CSB), INOVA Health System and outpatient practice. Drawing on experience from individuals with serious mental illness, to those needing guidance, education and support for a wide variety of everyday issues, I tailor my clinical expertise to meet my clients where they are at to support recovery and meet goals.
I specialize in helping clients cultivate coping skills and gain insight into issues to improve relationships, functioning and quality of life. I obtained my Master's Degree at Virginia Commonwealth University and have twenty years experience working in various mental health settings, including Loudoun County Mental Health (CSB), INOVA Health System and outpatient practice. Drawing on experience from individuals with serious mental illness, to those needing guidance, education and support for a wide variety of everyday issues, I tailor my clinical expertise to meet my clients where they are at to support recovery and meet goals.
(540) 405-8263 View (540) 405-8263
Photo of Allyson Luna - Luna Counseling Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Luna Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
5 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Does your mind frequently go to the worst-case scenario or "what ifs"? Do you struggle with overthinking, sleep issues, and stress so often that it impacts your ability to be present and enjoy life? Do you frequently feel panic or worry, but do not understand where it comes from or how to handle it in the moment? I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate approach to issues such as stress, anxiety, and panic. I provide practical tools for daily life, as well as dig into the root issue behind your struggles. My goal is for you to have confidence in your ability to be happy and experience peace again.
Does your mind frequently go to the worst-case scenario or "what ifs"? Do you struggle with overthinking, sleep issues, and stress so often that it impacts your ability to be present and enjoy life? Do you frequently feel panic or worry, but do not understand where it comes from or how to handle it in the moment? I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate approach to issues such as stress, anxiety, and panic. I provide practical tools for daily life, as well as dig into the root issue behind your struggles. My goal is for you to have confidence in your ability to be happy and experience peace again.
(540) 274-1583 View (540) 274-1583
Photo of Erika Lindsay Flax, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Lindsay Flax
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
“The pessimist complains about the wind, the optimist expects it to change, but the realist adjusts the sails”. I have made it my mission to help people use the resources they have to reach their destinations. We may not have all of the resources we desire, but using my person centered, strengths based approach to counseling, we can realize and maximize the tools, resources, and supports we have available to us. People who benefit from their time with me are individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, and mood disorders as well as couples wanting to establish increased connection and intimacy in their relationship.
“The pessimist complains about the wind, the optimist expects it to change, but the realist adjusts the sails”. I have made it my mission to help people use the resources they have to reach their destinations. We may not have all of the resources we desire, but using my person centered, strengths based approach to counseling, we can realize and maximize the tools, resources, and supports we have available to us. People who benefit from their time with me are individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, and mood disorders as well as couples wanting to establish increased connection and intimacy in their relationship.
(571) 497-5488 View (571) 497-5488
Photo of Wendy W. Coates, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Wendy W. Coates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Most of us seek therapy in search of happiness; we know it exists, but we can't seem to get there. I provide honest, straightforward feedback because your time is valuable. While therapy is validating and supportive, meaningful change requires moving beyond comfort zones. My expertise is couples and adult individuals. I specialize in helping people heal trauma, gain insight, correct problem patterns, regulate emotions, develop personal agency, and survive profound loss. As a licensed marriage and family therapist since 1995, I know the importance of healthy relationships with ourselves and others. Working with people is my passion.
Most of us seek therapy in search of happiness; we know it exists, but we can't seem to get there. I provide honest, straightforward feedback because your time is valuable. While therapy is validating and supportive, meaningful change requires moving beyond comfort zones. My expertise is couples and adult individuals. I specialize in helping people heal trauma, gain insight, correct problem patterns, regulate emotions, develop personal agency, and survive profound loss. As a licensed marriage and family therapist since 1995, I know the importance of healthy relationships with ourselves and others. Working with people is my passion.
(571) 609-5351 View (571) 609-5351
Photo of Shaya Naghdi, Resident in Counseling, MEd
Shaya Naghdi
Resident in Counseling, MEd
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Shaya is a compassionate, empathetic resident in counseling with experience working with patients, physicians, and pharmacists in healthcare. A devoted daughter of divorced parents, her passion for facilitating the healing process and mental health advocacy developed at a young age. Fluent in English and Farsi, Shaya is quite familiar with diverse client populations including first-generation clients, single parent households, blended, extended, and multicultural families and the multiple struggles and responsibilities that they face.
Shaya is a compassionate, empathetic resident in counseling with experience working with patients, physicians, and pharmacists in healthcare. A devoted daughter of divorced parents, her passion for facilitating the healing process and mental health advocacy developed at a young age. Fluent in English and Farsi, Shaya is quite familiar with diverse client populations including first-generation clients, single parent households, blended, extended, and multicultural families and the multiple struggles and responsibilities that they face.
(540) 426-1262 View (540) 426-1262
Photo of Annie Dwivedi, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Annie Dwivedi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Leesburg, VA 20176
Are you or your loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss, life transitions or unresolved trauma? Are you unhappy with your life situation, looking to find your purpose or gain control over your life? I am a licensed therapist in Virginia. It is my passion to help my clients develop healthy coping skills to deal with life challenges, to improve overall well-being and to live a life of fulfilment. I collaborate with my clients to design treatment based on their strengths and preferences, in a safe environment conducive of self exploration.
Are you or your loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss, life transitions or unresolved trauma? Are you unhappy with your life situation, looking to find your purpose or gain control over your life? I am a licensed therapist in Virginia. It is my passion to help my clients develop healthy coping skills to deal with life challenges, to improve overall well-being and to live a life of fulfilment. I collaborate with my clients to design treatment based on their strengths and preferences, in a safe environment conducive of self exploration.
(571) 688-5461 View (571) 688-5461
Photo of Hazel Zagade - Hazel Flores, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW-S
Hazel Flores
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW-S
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or exhausted from carrying your struggles on your own? Maybe you're worried you'll never feel better? I get it, and i'm here to support you. My ideal client is an individual motivated to change and to explore ways to transition to the next chapter of their life. By working together, we'll identify what's keeping you stuck, concrete ways to change, and how to make sure these changes stick to give you the life you want.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or exhausted from carrying your struggles on your own? Maybe you're worried you'll never feel better? I get it, and i'm here to support you. My ideal client is an individual motivated to change and to explore ways to transition to the next chapter of their life. By working together, we'll identify what's keeping you stuck, concrete ways to change, and how to make sure these changes stick to give you the life you want.
(540) 274-8483 View (540) 274-8483
Photo of Jason Sparks, Resident in Counseling, MS
Jason Sparks
Resident in Counseling, MS
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
I have a particular interest in helping men who are navigating personal insecurities, relationship challenges, or questions of identity and purpose. I’m also passionate about working with couples at all stages of their relationship—from dating and engagement to marriage and long-term partnership. Whether clients are seeking to strengthen their connection, repair trust, improve communication, or navigate a difficult season, I work to create a supportive space where both partners feel heard and understood. I also find deep meaning in supporting individuals through the complexities of grief and loss.
I have a particular interest in helping men who are navigating personal insecurities, relationship challenges, or questions of identity and purpose. I’m also passionate about working with couples at all stages of their relationship—from dating and engagement to marriage and long-term partnership. Whether clients are seeking to strengthen their connection, repair trust, improve communication, or navigate a difficult season, I work to create a supportive space where both partners feel heard and understood. I also find deep meaning in supporting individuals through the complexities of grief and loss.
(571) 517-1772 View (571) 517-1772
Photo of Kendall McCarthy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Kendall McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
I work with adults who have been impacted by trauma and want to move "past the past" to be more successful in their lives and relationships. You may feel like you are repeating the same patterns in your life; having the same fights with your partner, feeling disconnected with your children or a lack of grounding in your job or relationships. You may feel anger that the things that happened in the past are still impacting you. As adults, we are often re-triggered by the things that happened in the past, even in childhood. If this sounds like you, I may be able to help.
I work with adults who have been impacted by trauma and want to move "past the past" to be more successful in their lives and relationships. You may feel like you are repeating the same patterns in your life; having the same fights with your partner, feeling disconnected with your children or a lack of grounding in your job or relationships. You may feel anger that the things that happened in the past are still impacting you. As adults, we are often re-triggered by the things that happened in the past, even in childhood. If this sounds like you, I may be able to help.
(703) 215-1223 View (703) 215-1223
Photo of Samantha Calaluca, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Samantha Calaluca
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Leesburg, VA 20175
Waitlist for new clients
Confused or surprised by your strong emotional reactions? Feeling alone in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by discovering the sources of relationship problems, anxiety, depression, anger, & insecurity so that you experience calm, freedom and ease in life. I can also help you learn how to manage moods & negative thinking patterns. Maybe you are reacting in ways you don’t understand, feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. We all have moments in our lives when we need support, as we are not meant to suffer alone.
Confused or surprised by your strong emotional reactions? Feeling alone in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by discovering the sources of relationship problems, anxiety, depression, anger, & insecurity so that you experience calm, freedom and ease in life. I can also help you learn how to manage moods & negative thinking patterns. Maybe you are reacting in ways you don’t understand, feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. We all have moments in our lives when we need support, as we are not meant to suffer alone.
(540) 781-1218 View (540) 781-1218

See more therapy options for Leesburg

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Leesburg, VA

400+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Leesburg, VA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
93% Social Anxiety
93% Health Anxiety
93% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
68% Anthem

How Therapists in Leesburg, VA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
12% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Leesburg?

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.