Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Erica Donica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACS, PMH-C
Erica Donica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACS, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
Waitlist for new clients
Parenthood is wild! The ebbs and flows of parenting can be overwhelming, stressful, raw, exhilarating, deeply meaningful, and extremely humbling. Not only does our family structure evolve, but we are also in a state of personal growth and transformation. We often analyze our own relationships, attachment, patterns of behavior, self-worth, thoughts, and emotions. I am passionate about supporting perinatal, postpartum, and early parenting individuals navigate the huge transition of parenthood including PPA/ PPD, parent guilt, the mental load of parenthood, and exploring your identity during this new phase of life.
Parenthood is wild! The ebbs and flows of parenting can be overwhelming, stressful, raw, exhilarating, deeply meaningful, and extremely humbling. Not only does our family structure evolve, but we are also in a state of personal growth and transformation. We often analyze our own relationships, attachment, patterns of behavior, self-worth, thoughts, and emotions. I am passionate about supporting perinatal, postpartum, and early parenting individuals navigate the huge transition of parenthood including PPA/ PPD, parent guilt, the mental load of parenthood, and exploring your identity during this new phase of life.
(540) 506-4256 View (540) 506-4256
Photo of Erika Hughes, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Erika Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Roanoke, VA 24018
Are you ready to make a change and improve your life? I If so, I can help. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, a certified EMDR therapist. I have 20 years of counseling experience working with adolescents and adults. My area of expertise is treating substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma including PTSD. I guide and support clients helping them process through traumatic events, adapt to life challenges, and improve their quality of life.
Are you ready to make a change and improve your life? I If so, I can help. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, a certified EMDR therapist. I have 20 years of counseling experience working with adolescents and adults. My area of expertise is treating substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma including PTSD. I guide and support clients helping them process through traumatic events, adapt to life challenges, and improve their quality of life.
(540) 210-1718 View (540) 210-1718
Photo of Shelby Devericks, Resident in Counseling, MA, LMHP-R
Shelby Devericks
Resident in Counseling, MA, LMHP-R
Roanoke, VA 24016
Hi, I’m Shelby, a Resident in Counseling with over five years of experience in the mental health field. I’ve worked in a range of settings including inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, crisis services, and intensive outpatient programs. I’ve had the privilege of working with people ages 4 to 85, and one thing I truly believe is that you are the expert on your own experience. My approach is collaborative, direct, and laidback. Therapy with me is a space where you can bring your whole self—tea, blanket, doodles, fidgets, whatever helps. Whether you come in with clear goals or aren’t sure where to start, we’ll figure it out together.
Hi, I’m Shelby, a Resident in Counseling with over five years of experience in the mental health field. I’ve worked in a range of settings including inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, crisis services, and intensive outpatient programs. I’ve had the privilege of working with people ages 4 to 85, and one thing I truly believe is that you are the expert on your own experience. My approach is collaborative, direct, and laidback. Therapy with me is a space where you can bring your whole self—tea, blanket, doodles, fidgets, whatever helps. Whether you come in with clear goals or aren’t sure where to start, we’ll figure it out together.
(540) 698-4424 View (540) 698-4424
Photo of Sonnet Conner, Resident in Counseling
Sonnet Conner
Resident in Counseling
Roanoke, VA 24018
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes it can feel as if we are carrying burdens we can't set down. Whether you are battling anxiety, depression, healing from past trauma, or in recovery from addiction, I'm here to help you navigate those challenges in a compassionate, supportive way. As a pre-licensed counselor, I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from evidence-based practices like mindfulness, expressive arts, child-centered therapy, and trauma-informed care, tailoring our work together to fit your unique needs. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults facing a variety of life difficulties.
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes it can feel as if we are carrying burdens we can't set down. Whether you are battling anxiety, depression, healing from past trauma, or in recovery from addiction, I'm here to help you navigate those challenges in a compassionate, supportive way. As a pre-licensed counselor, I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from evidence-based practices like mindfulness, expressive arts, child-centered therapy, and trauma-informed care, tailoring our work together to fit your unique needs. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults facing a variety of life difficulties.
(540) 306-5904 View (540) 306-5904
Photo of Jennifer Smith - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Roanoke, VA 24011
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well.T hat's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well.T hat's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(540) 240-9439 View (540) 240-9439
Photo of Seqouia Pettigrew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seqouia Pettigrew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Meet Seqouia Pettigrew, NCC, LPC - a skilled licensed professional counselor spanning over 5 years. Seqouia’s dedication to the mental health field has positioned her as a trusted guide for individuals working through the complexities of life. As a licensed therapist, she brings a unique blend of experience and knowledge As we move deeper into the counseling process, themes and patterns will start to emerge. Together we’ll look at how these patterns are affecting you. You’ll always be in the driver’s seat because it’s your life.
Meet Seqouia Pettigrew, NCC, LPC - a skilled licensed professional counselor spanning over 5 years. Seqouia’s dedication to the mental health field has positioned her as a trusted guide for individuals working through the complexities of life. As a licensed therapist, she brings a unique blend of experience and knowledge As we move deeper into the counseling process, themes and patterns will start to emerge. Together we’ll look at how these patterns are affecting you. You’ll always be in the driver’s seat because it’s your life.
(540) 679-7057 View (540) 679-7057
Photo of Dana Deivert, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC
Dana Deivert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC
Online Only
When life feels out of control and you're struggling to regain your footing, it can be incredibly challenging to know where to turn. Tension may build and affect our relationships, physical health, occupation, and perhaps even the relationship we have with ourselves. My practice is to walk alongside you from a stance of non-judgement and acceptance as we find ways to make the weight of what you have been through lighter. Let’s build a place of safety to allow healing to begin. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and attachment related issues.
When life feels out of control and you're struggling to regain your footing, it can be incredibly challenging to know where to turn. Tension may build and affect our relationships, physical health, occupation, and perhaps even the relationship we have with ourselves. My practice is to walk alongside you from a stance of non-judgement and acceptance as we find ways to make the weight of what you have been through lighter. Let’s build a place of safety to allow healing to begin. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and attachment related issues.
(540) 274-2626 View (540) 274-2626
Photo of Emily Webb Olsen - Big Oak Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, RYT200
Big Oak Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, RYT200
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24013
If you’ve been doing the work but still feel stuck, you’re not alone. At Big Oak Wellness, we offer a different kind of support. We blend science-backed therapy with heart-centered practices to support full mind-body healing. We guide clients through life transitions like new parenthood, relationship shifts, or resurfacing childhood wounds. Our trauma-informed approach helps you reconnect with your body, your story, and your inner resilience.
If you’ve been doing the work but still feel stuck, you’re not alone. At Big Oak Wellness, we offer a different kind of support. We blend science-backed therapy with heart-centered practices to support full mind-body healing. We guide clients through life transitions like new parenthood, relationship shifts, or resurfacing childhood wounds. Our trauma-informed approach helps you reconnect with your body, your story, and your inner resilience.
(540) 592-4778 View (540) 592-4778
Photo of Krysten Garrett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Krysten Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Roanoke, VA 24018
No matter what you do, you feel like you can’t get out from under the weight of the past. You have a hard time connecting with friends and family, or avoid them altogether, because they just can’t understand. You find yourself thinking “it wasn’t that bad. Other people have it worse. So why can't I feel better?” You can't sleep, have aches and pains, and other physical symptoms you can’t explain. Maybe you’ve tried to push these feelings away with work, relationships, alcohol, or Netflix. These feelings and behaviors can make you feel like you’re trapped in a maze with no end in sight.
No matter what you do, you feel like you can’t get out from under the weight of the past. You have a hard time connecting with friends and family, or avoid them altogether, because they just can’t understand. You find yourself thinking “it wasn’t that bad. Other people have it worse. So why can't I feel better?” You can't sleep, have aches and pains, and other physical symptoms you can’t explain. Maybe you’ve tried to push these feelings away with work, relationships, alcohol, or Netflix. These feelings and behaviors can make you feel like you’re trapped in a maze with no end in sight.
(540) 302-5766 View (540) 302-5766
Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychologist, PhD
Sarah Phillips
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
Not accepting new clients
Occasionally feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges is a common experience. However, when feelings, thoughts and behaviors create limitations in life, I believe it is beneficial to explore these patterns. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I strive to create a safe, warm environment where you feel comfortable exploring difficult topics, while also providing space to challenge you to achieve your goals.
Occasionally feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges is a common experience. However, when feelings, thoughts and behaviors create limitations in life, I believe it is beneficial to explore these patterns. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I strive to create a safe, warm environment where you feel comfortable exploring difficult topics, while also providing space to challenge you to achieve your goals.
(540) 565-5892 View (540) 565-5892
Photo of Nicholas Vogel, Resident in Counseling, MEd, LCMHC-A
Nicholas Vogel
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LCMHC-A
Roanoke, VA 24017
My counseling work has primarily focused on college students and the post-graduating experience with concerns related to anxiety, depression, grief, divorce, and relationship concerns; however, I also specialize in any client ages 18-30's. In essence, my approach is an integrative counseling approach striving to balance self-awareness, a genuine and empathic relationship with the client, and a collaborative effort at identifying what changes a client can make to minimize anxieties and depressive symptoms. I strive to empower you and assist you in expanding healthy self-awareness that you will use as a tool for happiness and success.
My counseling work has primarily focused on college students and the post-graduating experience with concerns related to anxiety, depression, grief, divorce, and relationship concerns; however, I also specialize in any client ages 18-30's. In essence, my approach is an integrative counseling approach striving to balance self-awareness, a genuine and empathic relationship with the client, and a collaborative effort at identifying what changes a client can make to minimize anxieties and depressive symptoms. I strive to empower you and assist you in expanding healthy self-awareness that you will use as a tool for happiness and success.
(540) 634-6892 View (540) 634-6892
Photo of Kendra Chisolm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendra Chisolm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in the state of Virginia. I have over 30 yrs of clinical experience as a therapist and have utilized my clinical skills in outpatient, inpatient, detoxification, EAP, and Emergency Services settings. Over the years, I have specialized in the following clinical areas: addictive disorders, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress management,
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in the state of Virginia. I have over 30 yrs of clinical experience as a therapist and have utilized my clinical skills in outpatient, inpatient, detoxification, EAP, and Emergency Services settings. Over the years, I have specialized in the following clinical areas: addictive disorders, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress management,
(571) 240-4741 View (571) 240-4741
Photo of Bethany Gravely - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Roanoke, VA 24011
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
(540) 779-5092 View (540) 779-5092
Photo of Traketa Dillard, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Traketa Dillard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24017
For the last 10 years, I have been working to help people like you experience positive change and navigate difficult times in their lives with support, guidance, and encouragement. My experience in community mental health is diverse, working with children, youth, and adults. I value personal connection, compassion, and honesty in therapeutic work and appreciate the opportunity to offer direction which brings awareness and clarity during therapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Ferrum College and hold a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University.
For the last 10 years, I have been working to help people like you experience positive change and navigate difficult times in their lives with support, guidance, and encouragement. My experience in community mental health is diverse, working with children, youth, and adults. I value personal connection, compassion, and honesty in therapeutic work and appreciate the opportunity to offer direction which brings awareness and clarity during therapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Ferrum College and hold a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University.
(540) 405-6770 View (540) 405-6770
Photo of Julie Keen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Keen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Julie is a seasoned therapist with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. She comes from a background in both public and private sectors that includes extensive experience in emergency mental health and family systems. Her areas of expertise include trauma, addiction, women’s issues and life transitions. Julie's commitment to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction fuels her passion for working with those affected by these challenges.
Julie is a seasoned therapist with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. She comes from a background in both public and private sectors that includes extensive experience in emergency mental health and family systems. Her areas of expertise include trauma, addiction, women’s issues and life transitions. Julie's commitment to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction fuels her passion for working with those affected by these challenges.
(571) 596-6603 View (571) 596-6603
Photo of Jenny Waldron, LPC Intern
Jenny Waldron
LPC Intern
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
You’ve spent years taking care of everyone else—managing the chaos, staying strong, pushing through. But inside, you’re exhausted, grieving, anxious, or unsure who you are anymore. Maybe you’re healing from trauma, stuck in a toxic relationship dynamic, or facing a life change you didn’t see coming. You want to feel grounded, clear, and like yourself again. I work with women who are ready to stop just surviving and start coming home to themselves. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—I’m here to help you carry it.
You’ve spent years taking care of everyone else—managing the chaos, staying strong, pushing through. But inside, you’re exhausted, grieving, anxious, or unsure who you are anymore. Maybe you’re healing from trauma, stuck in a toxic relationship dynamic, or facing a life change you didn’t see coming. You want to feel grounded, clear, and like yourself again. I work with women who are ready to stop just surviving and start coming home to themselves. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—I’m here to help you carry it.
(540) 274-4682 View (540) 274-4682
Photo of Nancy Long, FNP-BC
Nancy Long
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, I completed my graduate degree at Savannah University in Savannah, Georgia. With over six years of experience, I have dedicated my career to treating and caring for patients with ADD and ADHD. My practice also encompasses a wide range of services, including behavioral health, primary care, and internal medicine.
As a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, I completed my graduate degree at Savannah University in Savannah, Georgia. With over six years of experience, I have dedicated my career to treating and caring for patients with ADD and ADHD. My practice also encompasses a wide range of services, including behavioral health, primary care, and internal medicine.
(540) 787-3649 View (540) 787-3649
Photo of Felicia Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Felicia Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
Every individual has the power and ability to make positive changes and improve their life. Sometimes you just need extra support from an individual who is willing to meet you on your level and help you to obtain your own personal goals. Felicia has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. She approaches counseling from a person centered perspective providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to process transitions, life events, trauma, and the means to strengthen your personal mental health.
Every individual has the power and ability to make positive changes and improve their life. Sometimes you just need extra support from an individual who is willing to meet you on your level and help you to obtain your own personal goals. Felicia has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. She approaches counseling from a person centered perspective providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to process transitions, life events, trauma, and the means to strengthen your personal mental health.
(540) 277-9353 View (540) 277-9353
Photo of Deneen Logan Evans, Counselor, PhD, LCSW
Deneen Logan Evans
Counselor, PhD, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
Dr. Deneen Evans has over 30 years experience partnering with diverse clients. Her practice is based on principles of social justice, diversity and inclusion and she empowers clients to restore their mental wellness by identifying their strengths and resources. Dr. Evans enjoys working with teenagers, women and families and has experience with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief, disability, racial identity and trauma.
Dr. Deneen Evans has over 30 years experience partnering with diverse clients. Her practice is based on principles of social justice, diversity and inclusion and she empowers clients to restore their mental wellness by identifying their strengths and resources. Dr. Evans enjoys working with teenagers, women and families and has experience with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief, disability, racial identity and trauma.
(540) 274-2604 View (540) 274-2604
Photo of Cynthia C Lissau, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Cynthia C Lissau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Roanoke, VA 24015
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
(540) 986-4135 View (540) 986-4135

See more therapy options for Roanoke

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Roanoke, VA

400+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Roanoke, VA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
64% Life Transitions
63% Relationship Issues
61% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
79% Anthem
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Roanoke, VA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
17% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Roanoke?

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.