Therapists in North Chesterfield, VA

Photo of Jaquiera Moore, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R
Jaquiera Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R
Jaquiera Moore, LPC-R Jaquiera Moore is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Residency in Virginia who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Virginia State University. In her spare time, Jaquiera enjoys binge watching TV, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.
Jaquiera Moore, LPC-R Jaquiera Moore is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Residency in Virginia who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Virginia State University. In her spare time, Jaquiera enjoys binge watching TV, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.
(804) 207-8301 View (804) 207-8301
Photo of Ilona Schenk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ilona Schenk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Private Pay) - You feel stuck. You are tired of feeling overwhelmed. Each day, you are trying so hard to please others only to get disappointed over and over again. You diligently worked on providing others with resources so they can live a better life. At the same time you have read and tried many strategies to work on yourself, but you still end up feeling defeated. You have been holding on to a dream of everything changing if you or they only...you fill in the blank. Now imagine - a life where your relationships are life-giving, boundaried, and healthy—not soul-sucking, draining, and empty...
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Private Pay) - You feel stuck. You are tired of feeling overwhelmed. Each day, you are trying so hard to please others only to get disappointed over and over again. You diligently worked on providing others with resources so they can live a better life. At the same time you have read and tried many strategies to work on yourself, but you still end up feeling defeated. You have been holding on to a dream of everything changing if you or they only...you fill in the blank. Now imagine - a life where your relationships are life-giving, boundaried, and healthy—not soul-sucking, draining, and empty...
(804) 269-8371 View (804) 269-8371
Photo of Kevin Bruce Hanger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kevin Bruce Hanger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
I have worked as a social worker in the mental health field for over 30 years. My treatment philosophy focuses on enhancing one's strengths and skills using a combination of behavioral and psychodynamic techniques. I have extensive experience working with both female and male trauma survivors and have been successful in helping them work through and recover from these experiences.
I have worked as a social worker in the mental health field for over 30 years. My treatment philosophy focuses on enhancing one's strengths and skills using a combination of behavioral and psychodynamic techniques. I have extensive experience working with both female and male trauma survivors and have been successful in helping them work through and recover from these experiences.
(804) 593-0045 View (804) 593-0045
Photo of Amy Enroughty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Enroughty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
You deserve a space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or searching for clarity and purpose, therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and move forward. I work with adults (18+) and seniors who are ready to grow, improve their relationships, and create meaningful change in their lives. If you’re open to reflection and seeking relief, support, and direction, you’re in the right place.
You deserve a space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or searching for clarity and purpose, therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and move forward. I work with adults (18+) and seniors who are ready to grow, improve their relationships, and create meaningful change in their lives. If you’re open to reflection and seeking relief, support, and direction, you’re in the right place.
(804) 589-4870 View (804) 589-4870
Photo of Greg Amodeo, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Greg Amodeo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
I specialize in supporting adult patients with simple or complex trauma to include childhood physical, sexual, and emotional abuse or neglect. Depression, anxiety, panic, dissociation, and substance use or addictive behaviors are common trauma-responses that may be affecting day-to-day behaviors like managing relationships, meeting job/school responsibilities, taking care of your health. You may be looking for relief from these trauma symptoms or a more comprehensive process to heal relationship wounds and experiences that have deeply affected your perspective on life.
I specialize in supporting adult patients with simple or complex trauma to include childhood physical, sexual, and emotional abuse or neglect. Depression, anxiety, panic, dissociation, and substance use or addictive behaviors are common trauma-responses that may be affecting day-to-day behaviors like managing relationships, meeting job/school responsibilities, taking care of your health. You may be looking for relief from these trauma symptoms or a more comprehensive process to heal relationship wounds and experiences that have deeply affected your perspective on life.
(804) 369-9396 View (804) 369-9396
Photo of Jillian Taylor - Start Today Counseling Interventions, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Start Today Counseling Interventions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
3 Endorsed
Life doesn’t always make room for healing. That’s why we do. At Start Today Counseling Interventions, we offer a warm, affirming space to slow down, get honest, & reconnect with who you are beneath it all. Whether you’re working through burnout, healing from trauma, facing a major life transition, or just feeling emotionally stuck, we meet you right where you are. Our collective of mental health and holistic wellness providers offers integrative, trauma-informed support designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit. This is a space where you can come undone without falling apart. Have a seat on our couch. We’re ready when you are.
Life doesn’t always make room for healing. That’s why we do. At Start Today Counseling Interventions, we offer a warm, affirming space to slow down, get honest, & reconnect with who you are beneath it all. Whether you’re working through burnout, healing from trauma, facing a major life transition, or just feeling emotionally stuck, we meet you right where you are. Our collective of mental health and holistic wellness providers offers integrative, trauma-informed support designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit. This is a space where you can come undone without falling apart. Have a seat on our couch. We’re ready when you are.
(804) 492-8396 View (804) 492-8396
Photo of Mackenzie Green, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Mackenzie Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children ages 3-11 who have experienced traumatic incidents, such as those in the foster care system, natural disasters, and children who exhibit extensive negative behaviors. I can provide you with both a wealth of knowledge about your child and their experiences, as well as one-on-one parent coaching to help you address these behaviors at home, giving you the confidence and autonomy you need as a parent. I help children reach their goals of improved emotion regulation, increased understanding and awareness of themselves, enhanced communication skills, and significant decreases in meltdowns.
I specialize in working with children ages 3-11 who have experienced traumatic incidents, such as those in the foster care system, natural disasters, and children who exhibit extensive negative behaviors. I can provide you with both a wealth of knowledge about your child and their experiences, as well as one-on-one parent coaching to help you address these behaviors at home, giving you the confidence and autonomy you need as a parent. I help children reach their goals of improved emotion regulation, increased understanding and awareness of themselves, enhanced communication skills, and significant decreases in meltdowns.
(804) 889-2621 View (804) 889-2621
Photo of Sarah Gunther, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LCMHC, CPCC
Sarah Gunther
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LCMHC, CPCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I support people through a variety of life’s challenges as they learn, heal, grow, and level up! Through our work together, my clients experience more clarity, more connection, more acceptance, and more inner peace. I am passionate about deconstructing the impact of our experiences, culture, and upbringing, and then moving forward in life with conscious choice. If you want to create a fulfilling life aligned with the most authentic you, then you’re in the right place. For more about me and EMDR intensives, please check out my website!
I support people through a variety of life’s challenges as they learn, heal, grow, and level up! Through our work together, my clients experience more clarity, more connection, more acceptance, and more inner peace. I am passionate about deconstructing the impact of our experiences, culture, and upbringing, and then moving forward in life with conscious choice. If you want to create a fulfilling life aligned with the most authentic you, then you’re in the right place. For more about me and EMDR intensives, please check out my website!
(720) 640-9774 View (720) 640-9774
Photo of Detrina E Crawley - New Lyfe Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
New Lyfe Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
At Newlyfe Counseling Services, we offer personalized, effective outpatient care in a safe, supportive space. Licensed in NC, SC, and VA, I work with individuals, couples, and families to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. I specialize in relationship counseling—helping couples strengthen connection, improve communication, and heal through guided support.
At Newlyfe Counseling Services, we offer personalized, effective outpatient care in a safe, supportive space. Licensed in NC, SC, and VA, I work with individuals, couples, and families to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. I specialize in relationship counseling—helping couples strengthen connection, improve communication, and heal through guided support.
(804) 621-4228 View (804) 621-4228
Photo of Mia Wooldridge, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, M Ed, LPC
Mia Wooldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, M Ed, LPC
Online Only
Hello all! I’m a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. I am a 3-time Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) alum and graduated in 2022 with a Master of Science degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. I was formally trained and have worked as a Functional Family Therapy and Qualified Mental Health Counselor since 2017. I completed the Master of Education program in Special Education (VCU) and worked for over 15 years as a Special Educator and Administrator. Since 2022, I have been an outpatient therapy clinician working with clients from various backgrounds, ages, and mental health needs.
Hello all! I’m a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. I am a 3-time Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) alum and graduated in 2022 with a Master of Science degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. I was formally trained and have worked as a Functional Family Therapy and Qualified Mental Health Counselor since 2017. I completed the Master of Education program in Special Education (VCU) and worked for over 15 years as a Special Educator and Administrator. Since 2022, I have been an outpatient therapy clinician working with clients from various backgrounds, ages, and mental health needs.
(804) 570-2657 View (804) 570-2657
Photo of Tiffini Sharifi, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST
Tiffini Sharifi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Navigating intimacy, relationships, and sexual health can feel overwhelming—especially when life brings unexpected challenges. As a Certified Sex Therapist through AASECT, I specialize in relationship therapy, sex therapy, and women’s sexual health, helping individuals and couples build strong, vulnerable, and fulfilling connections. For cancer survivors, the impact of treatment on sexual health can feel isolating and discouraging. I work with survivors who are struggling with the changes cancer has brought to their bodies, intimacy, and sense of self. My approach is about meeting you where you are and walking alongside you.
Navigating intimacy, relationships, and sexual health can feel overwhelming—especially when life brings unexpected challenges. As a Certified Sex Therapist through AASECT, I specialize in relationship therapy, sex therapy, and women’s sexual health, helping individuals and couples build strong, vulnerable, and fulfilling connections. For cancer survivors, the impact of treatment on sexual health can feel isolating and discouraging. I work with survivors who are struggling with the changes cancer has brought to their bodies, intimacy, and sense of self. My approach is about meeting you where you are and walking alongside you.
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Photo of Carrie R Horton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Carrie R Horton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Online Only
The first step is always the hardest, but also the most powerful step and the greatest gift you can give yourself! YOU Matter and you are NOT alone on this journey! I look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions you may have
The first step is always the hardest, but also the most powerful step and the greatest gift you can give yourself! YOU Matter and you are NOT alone on this journey! I look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions you may have
(804) 885-2941 View (804) 885-2941
Photo of Ben McClure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ben McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing outpatient therapy services to teens, adults, couples, and families to support them in deepening their understanding of the challenges they face. I utilize a combination of CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory and Emotion- Focused Therapy techniques that are best-suited to each of my clients’ unique set of needs. I prioritize my clients’ autonomy and privacy in our work together, and aim to empower them to champion their progress through meaningful change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing outpatient therapy services to teens, adults, couples, and families to support them in deepening their understanding of the challenges they face. I utilize a combination of CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory and Emotion- Focused Therapy techniques that are best-suited to each of my clients’ unique set of needs. I prioritize my clients’ autonomy and privacy in our work together, and aim to empower them to champion their progress through meaningful change.
(804) 808-1082 View (804) 808-1082
Photo of Charlotte Markva, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CSAC
Charlotte Markva
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CSAC
Online Only
I began practicing Christian counseling in 1992 after working as a social worker and substance abuse treatment counselor since 1984. I graduated from Regent University in 1989 where I learned how to integrate psychology with a view of what fits a Biblical/Christian counseling approach. Although most of my clients want Christian counseling, some are just looking for a moral perspective. About half of my caseload are individuals with issues like depression, anxiety, sexual trauma and stressful life situations. The other half are couples and families working through marital and child/adolescent problems and the impact on their families.
I began practicing Christian counseling in 1992 after working as a social worker and substance abuse treatment counselor since 1984. I graduated from Regent University in 1989 where I learned how to integrate psychology with a view of what fits a Biblical/Christian counseling approach. Although most of my clients want Christian counseling, some are just looking for a moral perspective. About half of my caseload are individuals with issues like depression, anxiety, sexual trauma and stressful life situations. The other half are couples and families working through marital and child/adolescent problems and the impact on their families.
(804) 254-7643 View (804) 254-7643
Photo of Rob Young, Psychologist, PsyD
Rob Young
Psychologist, PsyD
I work best with people who want results, and do not want to be in therapy just for the sake of being in therapy. I have considerable expertise and experience treating Anxiety and Panic, and OCD. I am compassionate and friendly, and I use humor frequently. I will help you understand the causes of your struggles and what the science says about solving them.
I work best with people who want results, and do not want to be in therapy just for the sake of being in therapy. I have considerable expertise and experience treating Anxiety and Panic, and OCD. I am compassionate and friendly, and I use humor frequently. I will help you understand the causes of your struggles and what the science says about solving them.
(804) 806-5066 View (804) 806-5066
Photo of Eleane L. Young, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CRTC
Eleane L. Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CRTC
Finding the right support when you're struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, grief or loss can feel overwhelming. What makes my approach unique is my commitment to providing a trauma-informed, client-centered, and culturally sensitive environment where you feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative journey, tailored to your individual needs and strengths. If you are seeking practical coping strategies, deeper self-awareness, or a faith-based perspective, I integrate evidence-based practices with a compassionate and holistic approach to help you achieve meaningful and lasting change.
Finding the right support when you're struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, grief or loss can feel overwhelming. What makes my approach unique is my commitment to providing a trauma-informed, client-centered, and culturally sensitive environment where you feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative journey, tailored to your individual needs and strengths. If you are seeking practical coping strategies, deeper self-awareness, or a faith-based perspective, I integrate evidence-based practices with a compassionate and holistic approach to help you achieve meaningful and lasting change.
(804) 376-1756 View (804) 376-1756
Photo of Kat Veasey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kat Veasey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Kat. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the owner of Empowered Growth RVA. I’m so glad you found your way here. I view therapy as an opportunity for individuals to explore their inner world and deepen their understanding of themselves. I am passionate about creating a safe space for this exploration while encouraging the development of my clients’ skills of self-empowerment, self-compassion, and curiosity. I believe that we are all the experts of our own experience, and I view the therapeutic relationship as one of collaboration.
Hello! My name is Kat. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the owner of Empowered Growth RVA. I’m so glad you found your way here. I view therapy as an opportunity for individuals to explore their inner world and deepen their understanding of themselves. I am passionate about creating a safe space for this exploration while encouraging the development of my clients’ skills of self-empowerment, self-compassion, and curiosity. I believe that we are all the experts of our own experience, and I view the therapeutic relationship as one of collaboration.
Photo of Lonnie D. Smith - Lonnie D. Smith Counseling & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lonnie D. Smith Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Life has a way of throwing obstacles (trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions, etc.) in your path and for some reason we feel the need to control these obstacles. Guess what, encountering obstacles in life doesn't make you weak or a bad person - it makes you human. Regardless of the situation or circumstances, everyone has the capacity to get through life's difficulties. If you allow me to take this journey with you, I'll help you channel your resources, build off your number one strength (yourself) and help you transition from attempting to control problems to finding balance by learning how to manage them instead.
Life has a way of throwing obstacles (trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions, etc.) in your path and for some reason we feel the need to control these obstacles. Guess what, encountering obstacles in life doesn't make you weak or a bad person - it makes you human. Regardless of the situation or circumstances, everyone has the capacity to get through life's difficulties. If you allow me to take this journey with you, I'll help you channel your resources, build off your number one strength (yourself) and help you transition from attempting to control problems to finding balance by learning how to manage them instead.
(804) 445-2099 View (804) 445-2099
Photo of Robyn Jennings - Lighthouse Behavioral Health Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lighthouse Behavioral Health Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
At Lighthouse, we believe that when we have self-worth and the right tools to get through life’s often challenging journey, we get closer to living the life we desire. Lighthouse focuses on self-worth and teaching evidence-based skills that help improve the overall quality of life for every individual that is committed to services. Our programs are designed to empower individuals with emotional, behavioral & social needs so that they can find happiness and fulfillment. We advocate for all individuals that we serve while teaching them the skills to advocate for themselves. We tailor treatment to each individual’s specific needs.
At Lighthouse, we believe that when we have self-worth and the right tools to get through life’s often challenging journey, we get closer to living the life we desire. Lighthouse focuses on self-worth and teaching evidence-based skills that help improve the overall quality of life for every individual that is committed to services. Our programs are designed to empower individuals with emotional, behavioral & social needs so that they can find happiness and fulfillment. We advocate for all individuals that we serve while teaching them the skills to advocate for themselves. We tailor treatment to each individual’s specific needs.
(804) 447-6382 View (804) 447-6382
Photo of Chelsea Muth, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Chelsea Muth
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Are difficult emotions or thoughts impacting your ability to live your best life? Are you haunted by past experiences of physical, emotional, or medical trauma? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship issue? Have you had therapy before that has helped, yet after a while the same challenges keep coming back? Are you at a turning point and ready for change? I work with people who are ready to find relief from their suffering. I specialize in addressing trauma, grief, illness, and relationship issues.
Are difficult emotions or thoughts impacting your ability to live your best life? Are you haunted by past experiences of physical, emotional, or medical trauma? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship issue? Have you had therapy before that has helped, yet after a while the same challenges keep coming back? Are you at a turning point and ready for change? I work with people who are ready to find relief from their suffering. I specialize in addressing trauma, grief, illness, and relationship issues.
(804) 589-4601 View (804) 589-4601

See more therapy options for North Chesterfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in North Chesterfield, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$137

Therapists in North Chesterfield, VA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Grief
69% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Anthem

How Therapists in North Chesterfield, VA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in North Chesterfield?

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.