Therapists in Scottsburg, VA

Photo of Alisa Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Alisa Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Online Only
I’m Alisa Evans, a licensed therapist in North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, offering telehealth services to support individuals on their journey toward emotional and mental wellness. I became a therapist to help people recognize their strengths, navigate life’s challenges, and create meaningful change. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and other concerns that interfere with daily life. Whether you’re looking to manage mild stress, build healthier patterns, or heal from significant symptoms, I provide a supportive and collaborative space to help you move forward.
I’m Alisa Evans, a licensed therapist in North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, offering telehealth services to support individuals on their journey toward emotional and mental wellness. I became a therapist to help people recognize their strengths, navigate life’s challenges, and create meaningful change. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and other concerns that interfere with daily life. Whether you’re looking to manage mild stress, build healthier patterns, or heal from significant symptoms, I provide a supportive and collaborative space to help you move forward.
(434) 204-5312 View (434) 204-5312

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan L. Sisler - Sisler Counseling Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sisler Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
I have been a Counselor for over 30 years. I started out as a Navy Drug and Alcohol Counselor at Roosevelt Roads Naval Hospital in 1989 when I was active-duty Navy. From there, I discovered the satisfaction and joy of working with people and families to help them identify and resolve their problems. I have experience with individuals and families, school-age children, adolescents, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and family issues, including domestic violence. I have experience working with couples who are focusing on separation, divorce, and/or reconciliation situations.
I have been a Counselor for over 30 years. I started out as a Navy Drug and Alcohol Counselor at Roosevelt Roads Naval Hospital in 1989 when I was active-duty Navy. From there, I discovered the satisfaction and joy of working with people and families to help them identify and resolve their problems. I have experience with individuals and families, school-age children, adolescents, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and family issues, including domestic violence. I have experience working with couples who are focusing on separation, divorce, and/or reconciliation situations.
(434) 480-3861 View (434) 480-3861
Photo of James 'scott' Law - Scott Law w/ Stand Alone Counseling LLC. , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Scott Law w/ Stand Alone Counseling LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with 9 years of professional clinical experience. I have a broad range of experience helping clients with a variety of life challenges including mental health, physical health, relationships, and environmental strains. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion as we travel your path to recovery. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey of wellness.
I am licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with 9 years of professional clinical experience. I have a broad range of experience helping clients with a variety of life challenges including mental health, physical health, relationships, and environmental strains. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion as we travel your path to recovery. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey of wellness.
(540) 405-8846 View (540) 405-8846
Photo of Michael Asaku-Yeboah - Evolve Vocational Services LLC, Counselor, MS, CRC, LCADC
Evolve Vocational Services LLC
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCADC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you managing a non-apparent disability (conditions that are not obvious to the on looker) and experiencing any of the following at work: Maintaining work expectations, productivity and meeting deadline? Struggling with executive functioning issues, such as focus & attention, organization & prioritization. Dealing with work stress that is impacting your personal life. Are you at risk of been placed on a performance improvement plan (PIP)or already placed on one and struggling to get off it? Are you neurodivergent and struggling with people understanding you and how you work? Are you exploring career change?
Are you managing a non-apparent disability (conditions that are not obvious to the on looker) and experiencing any of the following at work: Maintaining work expectations, productivity and meeting deadline? Struggling with executive functioning issues, such as focus & attention, organization & prioritization. Dealing with work stress that is impacting your personal life. Are you at risk of been placed on a performance improvement plan (PIP)or already placed on one and struggling to get off it? Are you neurodivergent and struggling with people understanding you and how you work? Are you exploring career change?
(702) 623-9349 View (702) 623-9349
Photo of Fran Tyson-Marchino, Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, CSAC, RPT
Fran Tyson-Marchino
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, CSAC, RPT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Creative Therapy, Inc. was established in Kauai in 1999. I became certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in 2002, registered as a Play Therapist in 2006, licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado and Hawaii in 2013, Virginia in 2023, and recognized as an EMDR Therapist in 2014. Additionally, I was certified in School Psychology in 1995, and as a Special Education Teacher in 1985. I have assisted children, families, and individuals with complex issues for over 35 years.
Creative Therapy, Inc. was established in Kauai in 1999. I became certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in 2002, registered as a Play Therapist in 2006, licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado and Hawaii in 2013, Virginia in 2023, and recognized as an EMDR Therapist in 2014. Additionally, I was certified in School Psychology in 1995, and as a Special Education Teacher in 1985. I have assisted children, families, and individuals with complex issues for over 35 years.
(808) 518-2644 View (808) 518-2644
Photo of Anne Leggett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Anne Leggett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
*ONLINE COUNSELING ANYWHERE IN VIRGINIA* Do you feel unsettled or that you're not where you want to be in life? Maybe you’re wondering if you’ll ever be a “good enough” partner, wife, mother, friend, or just good enough, in general. Or you’re faced with an important life decision like marriage, a new job, or whether or not to have a baby. You can’t really put your finger on why these decisions are so hard for you and that keeps you stuck and feeling anxious all the time. You have a hard time trusting your gut or listening to that quiet voice inside you that’s telling you something’s not right.
*ONLINE COUNSELING ANYWHERE IN VIRGINIA* Do you feel unsettled or that you're not where you want to be in life? Maybe you’re wondering if you’ll ever be a “good enough” partner, wife, mother, friend, or just good enough, in general. Or you’re faced with an important life decision like marriage, a new job, or whether or not to have a baby. You can’t really put your finger on why these decisions are so hard for you and that keeps you stuck and feeling anxious all the time. You have a hard time trusting your gut or listening to that quiet voice inside you that’s telling you something’s not right.
(434) 204-2897 View (434) 204-2897
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline I Barnette - The Rising Development Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
The Rising Development Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
Chase City, VA 23924
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults overcome challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and ptsd. Using evidence-based therapies like CBT and being culturally sensitive, I am dedicated to guiding individuals through life’s challenges, helping them lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. With a passion for empowering people to make informed choices. My work is driven by the joy of fostering resilience and growth in every step of their journey.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults overcome challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and ptsd. Using evidence-based therapies like CBT and being culturally sensitive, I am dedicated to guiding individuals through life’s challenges, helping them lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. With a passion for empowering people to make informed choices. My work is driven by the joy of fostering resilience and growth in every step of their journey.
(434) 226-7450 View (434) 226-7450
Photo of Sarah Newton Penston, Art Therapist, LPC, ATR-BC, EXAT, CCTP-II, CIMHP
Sarah Newton Penston
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR-BC, EXAT, CCTP-II, CIMHP
2 Endorsed
Ringgold, VA 24586
Feel too self-aware for therapy to be helpful? Join me for expressive arts therapy to co-create a healing journey with creative expression & neurodivergent affirming approaches. Learn how the nervous system contributes to emotional roller coasters or meltdowns. Explore, integrate and move through stuck emotions with multi-sensory experiences in expressive arts therapy. If you're curious about creative expression, drawn to videos on embodiment or somatic release, I invite you to experience therapy with a focus on restoration. Email for availability.
Feel too self-aware for therapy to be helpful? Join me for expressive arts therapy to co-create a healing journey with creative expression & neurodivergent affirming approaches. Learn how the nervous system contributes to emotional roller coasters or meltdowns. Explore, integrate and move through stuck emotions with multi-sensory experiences in expressive arts therapy. If you're curious about creative expression, drawn to videos on embodiment or somatic release, I invite you to experience therapy with a focus on restoration. Email for availability.
(757) 517-2947 View (757) 517-2947
Photo of Marita Kershaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marita Kershaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of diverse experience and I continue to evolve in new treatment models. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples alike. I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues. In my approach to individual therapy, I utilize treatment methods such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Strength Perspectives.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of diverse experience and I continue to evolve in new treatment models. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples alike. I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues. In my approach to individual therapy, I utilize treatment methods such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Strength Perspectives.
(434) 542-6450 View (434) 542-6450
Photo of Chandra Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chandra Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I bring a compassionate, solution-focused approach to my work. My clients are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, life transitions, or grief and loss. They want to learn coping skills, reduce symptoms, gain self-awareness, heal from past trauma, process grief, and improve communication skills in relationships. Together, we focus on developing self-insight, identifying triggers, and building healthy coping skills to process painful emotions and overcome challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I bring a compassionate, solution-focused approach to my work. My clients are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, life transitions, or grief and loss. They want to learn coping skills, reduce symptoms, gain self-awareness, heal from past trauma, process grief, and improve communication skills in relationships. Together, we focus on developing self-insight, identifying triggers, and building healthy coping skills to process painful emotions and overcome challenges.
(830) 282-3132 View (830) 282-3132
Photo of Tina Logan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tina Logan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
The counseling profession, for me, was precipitated out of a necessity to have an impartial view of the events of life. I believe there is power in addressing one’s physical and emotional needs. My toolbox of life experiences has provided me with the ability to understand common patterns of beliefs that affect most people in life’s journey. My passion involves healing that improves one’s personal lives and their interactions with others.
The counseling profession, for me, was precipitated out of a necessity to have an impartial view of the events of life. I believe there is power in addressing one’s physical and emotional needs. My toolbox of life experiences has provided me with the ability to understand common patterns of beliefs that affect most people in life’s journey. My passion involves healing that improves one’s personal lives and their interactions with others.
(434) 686-6301 View (434) 686-6301
Photo of Starr Guthrie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starr Guthrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who’s tired of surviving and ready to start living—but maybe doesn’t quite know how. You want peace of mind, deeper purpose, and healing that doesn’t just patch up the surface but reaches the soul. You want to feel seen, heard, and held—without judgment. You want to break cycles, not your back. You want to cry without apologizing. You want to laugh without guilt. You want to take a breath and actually feel safe in your body.
My ideal client is someone who’s tired of surviving and ready to start living—but maybe doesn’t quite know how. You want peace of mind, deeper purpose, and healing that doesn’t just patch up the surface but reaches the soul. You want to feel seen, heard, and held—without judgment. You want to break cycles, not your back. You want to cry without apologizing. You want to laugh without guilt. You want to take a breath and actually feel safe in your body.
View
Photo of T'onna Logan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
T'onna Logan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by life’s challenges but is ready for change. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, past hurts, or finding balance in relationships and daily life. What they want most is relief, clarity, and hope for the future. Their goal is to heal, build healthier coping skills, and rediscover their strength. They want a safe, supportive space to grow and a therapist who will walk alongside them as they create the life they deserve.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by life’s challenges but is ready for change. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, past hurts, or finding balance in relationships and daily life. What they want most is relief, clarity, and hope for the future. Their goal is to heal, build healthier coping skills, and rediscover their strength. They want a safe, supportive space to grow and a therapist who will walk alongside them as they create the life they deserve.
(434) 361-4366 View (434) 361-4366
Photo of Jessica Hamlett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jessica Hamlett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with over ten years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in many settings, including psychosocial rehabilitation programs, group homes, psychiatric hospitals, and community-based agencies, dedicating my career to helping children and families. Additionally, I am highly skilled in helping adults navigate transitional times in their lives, specifically relationship difficulties and other stressful life changes. Influenced by my own life’s journey, my work focuses on supporting those who have experienced recent and past trauma.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with over ten years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in many settings, including psychosocial rehabilitation programs, group homes, psychiatric hospitals, and community-based agencies, dedicating my career to helping children and families. Additionally, I am highly skilled in helping adults navigate transitional times in their lives, specifically relationship difficulties and other stressful life changes. Influenced by my own life’s journey, my work focuses on supporting those who have experienced recent and past trauma.
(804) 391-7371 View (804) 391-7371
Photo of Jane Cole Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jane Cole Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our goal in therapy is to help you improve coping skills. We will help you identify current and past stressors. We will learn to talk about feelings rather than internalizing feelings, thereby, decreasing your risk of becoming sick. Verbalizing your goals can prevent you from “acting out” feelings. “What We Say & What We Do Will Match Up.” We live in a stressful, fast paced, changing world with constant losses daily; no wonder we all feel anxious. Psychotherapy can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves & others. Being conscious of patterns in our lives can be one of the first steps towards change.
Our goal in therapy is to help you improve coping skills. We will help you identify current and past stressors. We will learn to talk about feelings rather than internalizing feelings, thereby, decreasing your risk of becoming sick. Verbalizing your goals can prevent you from “acting out” feelings. “What We Say & What We Do Will Match Up.” We live in a stressful, fast paced, changing world with constant losses daily; no wonder we all feel anxious. Psychotherapy can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves & others. Being conscious of patterns in our lives can be one of the first steps towards change.
(434) 216-2935 View (434) 216-2935
Photo of Nancy Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CSAC, NCC, CCTP
Nancy Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CSAC, NCC, CCTP
Serves Area
I believe the ideal client may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain—but they’re ready for change. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or substance use. Whether a child, teen, or adult, they want to feel more in control, confident, and emotionally grounded. They’re looking for a safe space to explore their feelings, build coping skills, and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I believe the ideal client may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain—but they’re ready for change. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or substance use. Whether a child, teen, or adult, they want to feel more in control, confident, and emotionally grounded. They’re looking for a safe space to explore their feelings, build coping skills, and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(434) 404-5796 View (434) 404-5796
Photo of Joe Gasperini, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAMS-II
Joe Gasperini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAMS-II
South Boston, VA 24592
Therapy is a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable and warm environment. When life is overwhelming and stressful or relationships are struggling, counseling can help. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, we will work together to help you reduce the suffering you may feel. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. Together we will decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
Therapy is a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable and warm environment. When life is overwhelming and stressful or relationships are struggling, counseling can help. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, we will work together to help you reduce the suffering you may feel. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. Together we will decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
(434) 321-6988 View (434) 321-6988
Photo of Teri Bistarkey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Teri Bistarkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Feeling like you can't quite keep it together? Sometimes we get overwhelmed with the stresses in life and need help sorting them out. Maybe you've just hit a low point or feeling overly worried and anxious. Talking to a therapist has helped many people who are feeling the same way. The last few years have been more than difficult, and people are struggling. I help people figure out what's working well for them and what's not. Then we explore together the many strengths and skills you already have and can use to overcome the problems life throws at us.
Feeling like you can't quite keep it together? Sometimes we get overwhelmed with the stresses in life and need help sorting them out. Maybe you've just hit a low point or feeling overly worried and anxious. Talking to a therapist has helped many people who are feeling the same way. The last few years have been more than difficult, and people are struggling. I help people figure out what's working well for them and what's not. Then we explore together the many strengths and skills you already have and can use to overcome the problems life throws at us.
(434) 204-9750 View (434) 204-9750
Photo of Samantha Bowes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Samantha Bowes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to help people navigate the daily struggles of life. From easy days to hard days anyone can accomplish the emotional and mental security they are searching for within themselves.
I am here to help people navigate the daily struggles of life. From easy days to hard days anyone can accomplish the emotional and mental security they are searching for within themselves.
(434) 216-0732 View (434) 216-0732
Photo of Taneshia Mayfield, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Taneshia Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Often we find ourselves dealing with difficult times, feeling alone, not knowing which way to turn, or dealing with unresolved issues from our past. Therapy provides a safe space for an individual to put life into perspective, gain self-awareness, build self-esteem, and identify one's strengths. Let's embark on a journey together to help you achieve your goals and identify the path that you wish for your life.
Often we find ourselves dealing with difficult times, feeling alone, not knowing which way to turn, or dealing with unresolved issues from our past. Therapy provides a safe space for an individual to put life into perspective, gain self-awareness, build self-esteem, and identify one's strengths. Let's embark on a journey together to help you achieve your goals and identify the path that you wish for your life.
(434) 337-4931 View (434) 337-4931

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Scottsburg, VA

< 10

Therapists in Scottsburg, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Coping Skills
100% Weight Loss

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Scottsburg, VA see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Scottsburg?

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.