Therapists in East Town, Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Dr. Trevor Hyde, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Trevor Hyde
Psychologist, PhD
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Trevor has extensive experience working with movement and cognitive disorders and dysautonomia. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys a second life as a musician, and actively plays shows with two different bands. He also travels, plays boardgames, cooks, and brews beer.
Trevor has extensive experience working with movement and cognitive disorders and dysautonomia. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys a second life as a musician, and actively plays shows with two different bands. He also travels, plays boardgames, cooks, and brews beer.
(262) 686-4811 View (262) 686-4811
Photo of Hadley Rains, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Hadley Rains
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
1 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
I believe therapy provides an opportunity for clients to heal and grow. I support clients in planting the seeds of growth and walk beside them as they blossom in their own time and way. My therapy space creates a supportive environment for clients to access insights and tools needed to be the best version of themself. My practice is grounded in warmth, empathy, and authenticity. I strive to create a collaborative and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered.
I believe therapy provides an opportunity for clients to heal and grow. I support clients in planting the seeds of growth and walk beside them as they blossom in their own time and way. My therapy space creates a supportive environment for clients to access insights and tools needed to be the best version of themself. My practice is grounded in warmth, empathy, and authenticity. I strive to create a collaborative and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered.
(414) 501-7519 x206 View (414) 501-7519 x206
Photo of Rachel Wagner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rachel Wagner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
With over 15 years of experience, my belief is that seeking out counseling services is a brave and proactive way to improve one’s quality of life. I strive to tailor all of my clients’ therapeutic journeys to their respective individual hopes, goals and needs to leave them feeling more complete, joyful, and with a greater understanding of themselves than prior to entering therapy. I aim to create a warm, kind, inclusive and safe therapeutic space that is free of judgment and open to what the client brings to each session. I particularly enjoy working with clients through transitional periods in their life.
With over 15 years of experience, my belief is that seeking out counseling services is a brave and proactive way to improve one’s quality of life. I strive to tailor all of my clients’ therapeutic journeys to their respective individual hopes, goals and needs to leave them feeling more complete, joyful, and with a greater understanding of themselves than prior to entering therapy. I aim to create a warm, kind, inclusive and safe therapeutic space that is free of judgment and open to what the client brings to each session. I particularly enjoy working with clients through transitional periods in their life.
(414) 626-9582 View (414) 626-9582
Photo of Aaron L Rutell - Easttown Psychotherapy, L.L.C., Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Easttown Psychotherapy, L.L.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
With compassion and understanding, I work to create a safe and trusting environment for individuals to share their inner most thoughts and feelings.  I will also meet each individual where they are in life and to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth the they are committed to accomplishing. As a therapist uniquely trained to listen in depth, I offer my warm, thoughtful style and 15 years of experience to listen with patience, understanding and insight.  If you are wanting more than just listening and understanding, you maybe seeking therapy because today's troubles express how something's not working for you.  My psychodynamic approach considers your current circumstance, past history, feelings and motivations, dreams and disappointments. In short, you as a whole person. By looking at you as a whole person, I can help you develop your self understanding and acceptance so that you can be more open of your strengths, accepting of your limitations, capable of a living a fuller life and confident about today.
With compassion and understanding, I work to create a safe and trusting environment for individuals to share their inner most thoughts and feelings.  I will also meet each individual where they are in life and to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth the they are committed to accomplishing. As a therapist uniquely trained to listen in depth, I offer my warm, thoughtful style and 15 years of experience to listen with patience, understanding and insight.  If you are wanting more than just listening and understanding, you maybe seeking therapy because today's troubles express how something's not working for you.  My psychodynamic approach considers your current circumstance, past history, feelings and motivations, dreams and disappointments. In short, you as a whole person. By looking at you as a whole person, I can help you develop your self understanding and acceptance so that you can be more open of your strengths, accepting of your limitations, capable of a living a fuller life and confident about today.
(414) 306-6627 View (414) 306-6627
Photo of Emma Nelson, Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Emma Nelson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
4 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for support and ways to cope? Whether you are going through recent stressors or had past challenges, there is a path to a better tomorrow. Through exploration of your unique self, we can work together to guide you to your goals.
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for support and ways to cope? Whether you are going through recent stressors or had past challenges, there is a path to a better tomorrow. Through exploration of your unique self, we can work together to guide you to your goals.
(414) 296-9981 x504 View (414) 296-9981 x504
Photo of Susan Nolte, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Susan Nolte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Whether you are having frequent conflicts with your partner, struggling with parenthood, grieving a loss, trying to establish healthy boundaries with family and friends, or working to understand yourself better — having someone to help support you through that process with empathy, insight, and guidance can be life changing. I have a masters in therapy, am married and a mother of four, and worked in a day treatment clinic doing individual, family, and group therapy so I have seen a lot. You are not alone and together we can process your situation, gain insight, and create meaningful change to help you move forward on a better path.
Whether you are having frequent conflicts with your partner, struggling with parenthood, grieving a loss, trying to establish healthy boundaries with family and friends, or working to understand yourself better — having someone to help support you through that process with empathy, insight, and guidance can be life changing. I have a masters in therapy, am married and a mother of four, and worked in a day treatment clinic doing individual, family, and group therapy so I have seen a lot. You are not alone and together we can process your situation, gain insight, and create meaningful change to help you move forward on a better path.
(414) 310-7897 View (414) 310-7897
Photo of Stephanie J Erbes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Stephanie J Erbes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
It can be difficult to ask for help when life gets overwhelming and you believe you should be able to handle everything on your own. Everyone needs support at times. Let's work together to identify and change unhealthy patterns in your life. My goal is to provide a judgement-free space for you to share unique strengths and challenges. Most clients benefit from simply being heard and validated without judgement. Keep an open mind and consider new approaches to coping, acceptance and problem resolution and you'll experience change.
It can be difficult to ask for help when life gets overwhelming and you believe you should be able to handle everything on your own. Everyone needs support at times. Let's work together to identify and change unhealthy patterns in your life. My goal is to provide a judgement-free space for you to share unique strengths and challenges. Most clients benefit from simply being heard and validated without judgement. Keep an open mind and consider new approaches to coping, acceptance and problem resolution and you'll experience change.
(262) 417-7815 View (262) 417-7815
Photo of Mary Jane M. Demet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Jane M. Demet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
I enjoy walking a journey of self-discovery with clients who want to have a more meaningful life and enhanced interpersonal relationships. Struggling with depression and anxiety makes life seem overwhelming and change difficult. I can help.
I enjoy walking a journey of self-discovery with clients who want to have a more meaningful life and enhanced interpersonal relationships. Struggling with depression and anxiety makes life seem overwhelming and change difficult. I can help.
(414) 269-5507 View (414) 269-5507
Photo of Mary Hanson, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Mary Hanson
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
2 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively with clients to create meaningful change. I believe that complex intersections of identity shape our lived experiences, and I strive to create a therapeutic experience wherein clients feel seen, heard, and respected as unique individuals. I have experience working with young adults facing a variety of challenges pertaining to school, major life transitions, and mental health. I have worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, grief, and low self-esteem. I currently work with adults of all ages.
My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively with clients to create meaningful change. I believe that complex intersections of identity shape our lived experiences, and I strive to create a therapeutic experience wherein clients feel seen, heard, and respected as unique individuals. I have experience working with young adults facing a variety of challenges pertaining to school, major life transitions, and mental health. I have worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, grief, and low self-esteem. I currently work with adults of all ages.
(414) 662-9328 x513 View (414) 662-9328 x513
Photo of Lanie Figueroa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Lanie Figueroa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Do want to gain deeper insight into yourself & your past experiences and start creating new patterns in your life? I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist that utilizes a holistic and integrated approach. As your therapist, I will help you process traumatic memories, learn coping skills, gain new perspective, set goals. I’ll show up as a real person, challenge you when you need it, and be genuinely invested in you and your journey. Schedule your free consultation today by sending your email inquiry.
Do want to gain deeper insight into yourself & your past experiences and start creating new patterns in your life? I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist that utilizes a holistic and integrated approach. As your therapist, I will help you process traumatic memories, learn coping skills, gain new perspective, set goals. I’ll show up as a real person, challenge you when you need it, and be genuinely invested in you and your journey. Schedule your free consultation today by sending your email inquiry.
(414) 877-8176 View (414) 877-8176
Photo of Erik Stonecipher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Erik Stonecipher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Other areas of interest for Erik are: The coming out experience; Exploring sexual & gender identities; Coping with structural and systemic challenges; Exploring meaning & purpose in one’s life; Working through difficult family histories, family trauma. Erik is excited that you are considering therapy with them, welcoming you to reach out with any questions or interest you may have.
Other areas of interest for Erik are: The coming out experience; Exploring sexual & gender identities; Coping with structural and systemic challenges; Exploring meaning & purpose in one’s life; Working through difficult family histories, family trauma. Erik is excited that you are considering therapy with them, welcoming you to reach out with any questions or interest you may have.
(262) 302-3957 View (262) 302-3957
Photo of Dr. Brarysheyia Simpson, Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Dr. Brarysheyia Simpson
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
BraRysheyia Simpson, PsyD, MSW, helps children, teens, and adults gain clarity, understanding, and direction through comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing for individuals across Wisconsin. She partners with patients and families to answer complex questions about learning, attention, mood, and behavior, translating assessment results into practical recommendations that support healing, growth, and day-to-day functioning. At LifeStance Health, BraRysheyia is especially passionate about providing neurodevelopmental diagnostic clarity.
BraRysheyia Simpson, PsyD, MSW, helps children, teens, and adults gain clarity, understanding, and direction through comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing for individuals across Wisconsin. She partners with patients and families to answer complex questions about learning, attention, mood, and behavior, translating assessment results into practical recommendations that support healing, growth, and day-to-day functioning. At LifeStance Health, BraRysheyia is especially passionate about providing neurodevelopmental diagnostic clarity.
(414) 293-4666 View (414) 293-4666
Photo of Alec Sternig - New Prospects Counseling Services, Counselor, MS, LPC
New Prospects Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
New Prospects Counseling Services has been serving children, adults and couples in Milwaukee since 1977. Located on the upper east side of Milwaukee, our office space combines the charm of the old with the convenience of the new for a comfortable and welcoming environment.
New Prospects Counseling Services has been serving children, adults and couples in Milwaukee since 1977. Located on the upper east side of Milwaukee, our office space combines the charm of the old with the convenience of the new for a comfortable and welcoming environment.
(414) 441-1979 x1 View (414) 441-1979 x1
Photo of Claudia Asztalos, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Claudia Asztalos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Claudia Asztalos, LPC, supports adults and seniors across Wisconsin in navigating life’s challenges with clarity, strength, and renewed purpose. Through individual and group therapy, she creates a safe, supportive space where clients can explore complex emotions, break unhelpful patterns, and develop sustainable coping strategies. Claudia works with young adults, professionals, and older adults facing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Claudia is especially passionate about working with clients who are navigating trauma and recovery.
Claudia Asztalos, LPC, supports adults and seniors across Wisconsin in navigating life’s challenges with clarity, strength, and renewed purpose. Through individual and group therapy, she creates a safe, supportive space where clients can explore complex emotions, break unhelpful patterns, and develop sustainable coping strategies. Claudia works with young adults, professionals, and older adults facing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Claudia is especially passionate about working with clients who are navigating trauma and recovery.
(414) 667-7103 View (414) 667-7103
Photo of Cayla Lund, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Cayla Lund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Cayla Lund is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist with over 4 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, and transitional concerns. Cayla is passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and helping navigate through related issues. Cayla utilizes Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Cayla has experience counseling children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and groups in clinical and inpatient settings.
Cayla Lund is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist with over 4 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, and transitional concerns. Cayla is passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and helping navigate through related issues. Cayla utilizes Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Cayla has experience counseling children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and groups in clinical and inpatient settings.
(262) 333-0487 View (262) 333-0487
Photo of Howard Thirus, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Howard Thirus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Howard (Reggie) Thirus is a licensed professional counselor who graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee in 2016. Reggie works with adults, individuals and couples. Reggie has experience working with mood issues, LGBTQ+ issues, ADHD, Emotional Health, Emotional Intimacy, Connection, and cultural issues . Reggie works with clients to help them change their negative thought and behavior patterns, helps them to recognize and understand more about their feelings and helps clients develop a more authentic self. Reggie enjoys exercise, listening to good music and getting outdoors to spend time in the sun.
Howard (Reggie) Thirus is a licensed professional counselor who graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee in 2016. Reggie works with adults, individuals and couples. Reggie has experience working with mood issues, LGBTQ+ issues, ADHD, Emotional Health, Emotional Intimacy, Connection, and cultural issues . Reggie works with clients to help them change their negative thought and behavior patterns, helps them to recognize and understand more about their feelings and helps clients develop a more authentic self. Reggie enjoys exercise, listening to good music and getting outdoors to spend time in the sun.
(262) 686-4753 View (262) 686-4753
Photo of Indigo Beilfuss, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Indigo Beilfuss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Indigo Beilfuss, LPC, is dedicated to helping adolescents and young adults navigate the complexities of mental health challenges in Wisconsin. With a focus on individual therapy, family therapy, and case management, she provides compassionate support tailored to the unique needs of her clients. Indigo specializes in assisting those recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, ensuring a smooth transition back into everyday life. Her empathetic approach helps individuals regain stability and confidence as they work through their mental health journeys.
Indigo Beilfuss, LPC, is dedicated to helping adolescents and young adults navigate the complexities of mental health challenges in Wisconsin. With a focus on individual therapy, family therapy, and case management, she provides compassionate support tailored to the unique needs of her clients. Indigo specializes in assisting those recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, ensuring a smooth transition back into everyday life. Her empathetic approach helps individuals regain stability and confidence as they work through their mental health journeys.
(414) 742-7433 View (414) 742-7433
Photo of Brooke Phelps, Counselor, MHR, LPC
Brooke Phelps
Counselor, MHR, LPC
2 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Beginning therapy can often be difficult and may carry a host of fears, uncertainties, and challenges. I believe that it can also be a life changing journey that can help explore those difficult pieces and peel those layers that have kept us from being our authentic selves. My clients are often young adults, parents, those starting a new phase in their life, or anyone navigating the process of individuation and creating change. My clients are often looking to create healthy boundaries and relationships with themselves and others. Many are healing from past trauma, toxic relationships, or entering a new phase in life.
Beginning therapy can often be difficult and may carry a host of fears, uncertainties, and challenges. I believe that it can also be a life changing journey that can help explore those difficult pieces and peel those layers that have kept us from being our authentic selves. My clients are often young adults, parents, those starting a new phase in their life, or anyone navigating the process of individuation and creating change. My clients are often looking to create healthy boundaries and relationships with themselves and others. Many are healing from past trauma, toxic relationships, or entering a new phase in life.
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Photo of Andrea Bowes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Andrea Bowes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
I have over 25 years of clinical experience helping children, adolescents and adults navigate life's transitions. Combining cutting edge innovative techniques with a broad assortment of traditional approaches, I provide a unique approach tailored to the individuals and families that I work with. And, as a certified trauma specialist I work with both acute and complex trauma issues, in the understanding that trauma truly is in the eye of the beholder.
I have over 25 years of clinical experience helping children, adolescents and adults navigate life's transitions. Combining cutting edge innovative techniques with a broad assortment of traditional approaches, I provide a unique approach tailored to the individuals and families that I work with. And, as a certified trauma specialist I work with both acute and complex trauma issues, in the understanding that trauma truly is in the eye of the beholder.
(414) 376-4099 x105 View (414) 376-4099 x105
Photo of Rachel Spyhalski, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-IT
Rachel Spyhalski
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-IT
1 Endorsed
East Town, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Currently accepting new clients! I work with teens and adults to process various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma exposure. My work also addresses concerns related to self-esteem, processing major life transitions, and managing relationships. My approach is rooted in the belief that the therapeutic relationship can serve as a special bond through which you can discover new self truths, identify your strengths, cultivate resilience, and feel empowered to reauthor your own story.
Currently accepting new clients! I work with teens and adults to process various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma exposure. My work also addresses concerns related to self-esteem, processing major life transitions, and managing relationships. My approach is rooted in the belief that the therapeutic relationship can serve as a special bond through which you can discover new self truths, identify your strengths, cultivate resilience, and feel empowered to reauthor your own story.
(414) 246-8949 x508 View (414) 246-8949 x508

See more therapy options for East Town, Milwaukee

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in East Town, Milwaukee, WI

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in East Town, Milwaukee, WI who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
67% Self Esteem
64% Trauma and PTSD
62% Relationship Issues
60% Grief
59% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in East Town, Milwaukee, WI see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in East Town, Milwaukee?

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.