Therapists in Shell Lake, WI

Photo of Kayla M Veness, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMF
Kayla M Veness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMF
Online Only
My ideal client is anyone who wants to better their life and wants assistance in doing so. I work best with teens, young adults, individuals, couples and families that are feeling stuck in life. Together, we can have those tough conversations and work through the mess of relationships and how these are impacting you. I believe that at the heart of psychotherapy is a professional and meaningful relationship between a client or group of individuals and the therapist that can help accelerate changes and purpose within the client's life. I strive to be that therapist for my client's, understanding that this looks different for everyone.
My ideal client is anyone who wants to better their life and wants assistance in doing so. I work best with teens, young adults, individuals, couples and families that are feeling stuck in life. Together, we can have those tough conversations and work through the mess of relationships and how these are impacting you. I believe that at the heart of psychotherapy is a professional and meaningful relationship between a client or group of individuals and the therapist that can help accelerate changes and purpose within the client's life. I strive to be that therapist for my client's, understanding that this looks different for everyone.
(715) 334-8180 View (715) 334-8180
Photo of Darren Cox - Anchor Bay Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Anchor Bay Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
Anchor Bay Counseling Center's motto is "Where Hope Has A Home" The goal of therapy is to help people regain their footing and find hope again in their day to day lives. We specialize in individual, marriage and family therapy offering a values driven approach.
Anchor Bay Counseling Center's motto is "Where Hope Has A Home" The goal of therapy is to help people regain their footing and find hope again in their day to day lives. We specialize in individual, marriage and family therapy offering a values driven approach.
(715) 544-3814 View (715) 544-3814
Photo of Kirsten Gunnarson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CAPSW
Kirsten Gunnarson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CAPSW
Serves Area
I believe folks have the innate ability to find healing and change within themselves through supportive guidance in a safe environment. My aim is to provide space for discussion, exploration, learning, and growth—however that looks. I follow the client's lead in identifying and approaching their concerns, including tailoring treatment methods to best fit their goals and learning styles. I approach every therapeutic relationship being trauma informed, culturally sensitive, and person-centered. I am passionate about increasing self-awareness, learning how to navigate challenges, and practicing healthy connection and communication.
I believe folks have the innate ability to find healing and change within themselves through supportive guidance in a safe environment. My aim is to provide space for discussion, exploration, learning, and growth—however that looks. I follow the client's lead in identifying and approaching their concerns, including tailoring treatment methods to best fit their goals and learning styles. I approach every therapeutic relationship being trauma informed, culturally sensitive, and person-centered. I am passionate about increasing self-awareness, learning how to navigate challenges, and practicing healthy connection and communication.
(715) 489-5742 View (715) 489-5742

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ron T Petit, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Ron T Petit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Serves Area
My focus might be short term counseling or longer term in-depth psychotherapy, depending on the needs of the client. In all cases, the client-therapist or counselor relationship quality is critical to real sustainable change. This relationship quality is created through empathy, genuiness and respect for the client and a genuine desire on my part to understand. When people feel known accurately and respected, that intangible magic begins to happen which leads to healing. Truth and love are definitely a part of that which leads us directly into the spiritual realm. Individual and couples therapy are my specialties.
My focus might be short term counseling or longer term in-depth psychotherapy, depending on the needs of the client. In all cases, the client-therapist or counselor relationship quality is critical to real sustainable change. This relationship quality is created through empathy, genuiness and respect for the client and a genuine desire on my part to understand. When people feel known accurately and respected, that intangible magic begins to happen which leads to healing. Truth and love are definitely a part of that which leads us directly into the spiritual realm. Individual and couples therapy are my specialties.
(715) 402-4330 View (715) 402-4330
Photo of Jeanne Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Jeanne Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Spooner, WI 54801
I am a compassionate, caring, qualified therapist. Rather than just treating symptoms, I help clients get to the root cause of the problem. Then we work together to change habitual ways of thinking, feeling and behaving into more positive, healthful, life affirming patterns. I am a Clinically trained Hypnotherapist and Hypnoanalyst and psychotherapist. I use this process because I am amazed at how good results are for clients. I love to see clients succeed and hypnosis makes change more effective and faster. I am currently getting a doctorate because I am committed to the most effective treatment possible.
I am a compassionate, caring, qualified therapist. Rather than just treating symptoms, I help clients get to the root cause of the problem. Then we work together to change habitual ways of thinking, feeling and behaving into more positive, healthful, life affirming patterns. I am a Clinically trained Hypnotherapist and Hypnoanalyst and psychotherapist. I use this process because I am amazed at how good results are for clients. I love to see clients succeed and hypnosis makes change more effective and faster. I am currently getting a doctorate because I am committed to the most effective treatment possible.
(715) 506-6091 View (715) 506-6091
Photo of Sierra Claeson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sierra Claeson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do your intrusive thoughts leave you feeling scared or anxious? And does it seem like the only way to find relief of these obsessions are by performing compulsions? If so, you’ve come to the right place! I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in helping individuals ages 13+ manage anxiety, OCD, & related disorders. I know how isolating & exhausting it can be to live with OCD or constant anxiety. You may feel like your intrusive thoughts are out of control, terrifying, or maybe you're stuck in patterns that are hard to break! My goal is to help you feel more in control & break this cycle that can make daily life feel so overwhelming!
Do your intrusive thoughts leave you feeling scared or anxious? And does it seem like the only way to find relief of these obsessions are by performing compulsions? If so, you’ve come to the right place! I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in helping individuals ages 13+ manage anxiety, OCD, & related disorders. I know how isolating & exhausting it can be to live with OCD or constant anxiety. You may feel like your intrusive thoughts are out of control, terrifying, or maybe you're stuck in patterns that are hard to break! My goal is to help you feel more in control & break this cycle that can make daily life feel so overwhelming!
(763) 225-1691 View (763) 225-1691
Photo of Michelle Thoen, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Michelle Thoen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Trego, WI 54888
Life is full of surprises and sometimes it is difficult to know how to handle these changes. I am dedicated to providing a professional, caring and respectful environment which encourages clients to collaborate in identifying areas of concern and individualizing goals. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques that are research-based and effective, clients learn ways to cope with those changes that were once viewed as troublesome.
Life is full of surprises and sometimes it is difficult to know how to handle these changes. I am dedicated to providing a professional, caring and respectful environment which encourages clients to collaborate in identifying areas of concern and individualizing goals. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques that are research-based and effective, clients learn ways to cope with those changes that were once viewed as troublesome.
(612) 200-0735 View (612) 200-0735
Photo of Mary Devorak, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Mary Devorak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
I work with children of all ages and am in the process of becoming a Registered Play Therapist. I'm certified in AutPlay. I care deeply about individualizing therapy for each unique child, based on their neurological needs. I enjoy working with parents and families as well, to help strengthen and repair relationships. I also work with teens and adults within the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities who are looking to get to know themselves and their relationships better. I also work with a lot of nerdy gamers and crafters- much like myself!
I work with children of all ages and am in the process of becoming a Registered Play Therapist. I'm certified in AutPlay. I care deeply about individualizing therapy for each unique child, based on their neurological needs. I enjoy working with parents and families as well, to help strengthen and repair relationships. I also work with teens and adults within the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities who are looking to get to know themselves and their relationships better. I also work with a lot of nerdy gamers and crafters- much like myself!
(612) 482-1635 View (612) 482-1635
Photo of Paula Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Paula Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hello! I am Paula Peterson. I have the great honor of being a licensed professional counselor for the last 18 years. I love coming alongside people and their wounds and struggles that they carry and that have gotten in their way. Because of my own healing journey, I know how valuable it is to have someone come alongside you well with patience, compassion, wisdom and care.
Hello! I am Paula Peterson. I have the great honor of being a licensed professional counselor for the last 18 years. I love coming alongside people and their wounds and struggles that they carry and that have gotten in their way. Because of my own healing journey, I know how valuable it is to have someone come alongside you well with patience, compassion, wisdom and care.
(715) 618-8686 View (715) 618-8686
Photo of Elizabeth Johnson - Elizabeth Johnson, Superior Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MSE, LSC, LPC
Elizabeth Johnson, Superior Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MSE, LSC, LPC
Hayward, WI 54843
With over 23 years of experience as a Counselor, I have found the most effective way to do therapy is to help empower people to recognize the power and strength they have within themselves. There is hope and a way to get better. I will help you through psycho-education, effective coping skills, and changing/interrupting your negative thought patterns. When you change the way you see yourself and your situation you can change your life in ways you never thought possible. Superior Counseling now has 6 other therapists who are highly skilled in cognitive behavioral therapy and substance abuse treatment so you have options here!
With over 23 years of experience as a Counselor, I have found the most effective way to do therapy is to help empower people to recognize the power and strength they have within themselves. There is hope and a way to get better. I will help you through psycho-education, effective coping skills, and changing/interrupting your negative thought patterns. When you change the way you see yourself and your situation you can change your life in ways you never thought possible. Superior Counseling now has 6 other therapists who are highly skilled in cognitive behavioral therapy and substance abuse treatment so you have options here!
(715) 403-5938 View (715) 403-5938
Photo of Savannah Taylor - Realign and Reclamation, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Realign and Reclamation, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck? I am here to help you get to where you want to be. In order to do that my focus is building a solid trusting relationship and environment with you that is both nurturing and healthy. Using active listening, empathy, compassion, and acceptance I believe that we can build a relationship to achieve your goals. My therapy focus areas are anxiety, depression, trauma, and children/families. My approach to therapy is that I am a guide who offers a helping hand while you discover where you want to be and helps you get there. I have worked with all ages but my focus has been on children and young adults
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck? I am here to help you get to where you want to be. In order to do that my focus is building a solid trusting relationship and environment with you that is both nurturing and healthy. Using active listening, empathy, compassion, and acceptance I believe that we can build a relationship to achieve your goals. My therapy focus areas are anxiety, depression, trauma, and children/families. My approach to therapy is that I am a guide who offers a helping hand while you discover where you want to be and helps you get there. I have worked with all ages but my focus has been on children and young adults
(715) 484-9524 View (715) 484-9524
Photo of Christina Marie Heddinger, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Christina Marie Heddinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rice Lake, WI 54868
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I believe in the power of a growth mindset to strengthen mental health and personal well-being. My areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I take a client-centered approach, emphasizing mindfulness, stress management, and self-acceptance. I also value incorporating humor when appropriate to create a supportive and comfortable environment for change.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I believe in the power of a growth mindset to strengthen mental health and personal well-being. My areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I take a client-centered approach, emphasizing mindfulness, stress management, and self-acceptance. I also value incorporating humor when appropriate to create a supportive and comfortable environment for change.
(715) 638-1824 View (715) 638-1824
Photo of Candace Anderson, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Candace Anderson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Online Only
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
(406) 272-0203 View (406) 272-0203
Photo of Donna Glaser, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CCATP, CCTP-II
Donna Glaser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CCATP, CCTP-II
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Trauma, a difficult childhood, deep loss—they leave a mark. We’d all love to believe that what happened “back then” doesn’t have to affect us in the “here & now.” But it does. Painful experiences change how we feel about ourselves, relationships, and how we view the world. We want to move on but we're stuck. No matter how hard we try to push the pain back or down or away... it leaks back in and we find ourselves living in the same old pain with the same old problems: Stuck. Exhausted. Frustrated.
Trauma, a difficult childhood, deep loss—they leave a mark. We’d all love to believe that what happened “back then” doesn’t have to affect us in the “here & now.” But it does. Painful experiences change how we feel about ourselves, relationships, and how we view the world. We want to move on but we're stuck. No matter how hard we try to push the pain back or down or away... it leaks back in and we find ourselves living in the same old pain with the same old problems: Stuck. Exhausted. Frustrated.
(715) 227-6751 View (715) 227-6751
Photo of Kristina Olson, Counselor, MA, LPC-IT
Kristina Olson
Counselor, MA, LPC-IT
1 Endorsed
Rice Lake, WI 54868
I aim to create an empathetic, warm, and collaborative environment, in which feelings can be expressed and supported. My experience stems from assisting children, adolescents and their family to navigate the challenges life presents, whether rooted in trauma, life changes, or future goals. Some special areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm behaviors, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
I aim to create an empathetic, warm, and collaborative environment, in which feelings can be expressed and supported. My experience stems from assisting children, adolescents and their family to navigate the challenges life presents, whether rooted in trauma, life changes, or future goals. Some special areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm behaviors, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
(715) 908-9558 View (715) 908-9558
Photo of Elaina M Schuh, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elaina M Schuh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Elaina Schuh and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I graduated from UW-Stout in 2020 and was plunged head first into therapy during the pandemic. This intense start has allowed me to be more empathetic and passionate about serving clients and meeting their needs. I speacialize in working with adult individuals and couples who strive to better themselves, understand their unique qualities and are looking to create new paths in their journey of self-love and adventure. I work hard to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, heard and understood.
My name is Elaina Schuh and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I graduated from UW-Stout in 2020 and was plunged head first into therapy during the pandemic. This intense start has allowed me to be more empathetic and passionate about serving clients and meeting their needs. I speacialize in working with adult individuals and couples who strive to better themselves, understand their unique qualities and are looking to create new paths in their journey of self-love and adventure. I work hard to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, heard and understood.
(715) 947-1230 View (715) 947-1230
Photo of Mary French, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Mary French
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi. I'm Mary, a Licensed Professional Counselor working with Growtherapy! I am a therapist working in Private Practice and contract with Growtherapy and others, to see clients throughout Wisconsin most of the week. I've been doing this for quite some time now, maybe 25 or so years. My husband and I have a 3 year old grandson that keeps us running! We get to take care of him two days a week. I really enjoy working with those who primarily have situational and emotional difficulties with anxiety, stress, ego-strength and unresolved relationship or family issues. Anxiety is so prevalent in our society now, it's epidemic.
Hi. I'm Mary, a Licensed Professional Counselor working with Growtherapy! I am a therapist working in Private Practice and contract with Growtherapy and others, to see clients throughout Wisconsin most of the week. I've been doing this for quite some time now, maybe 25 or so years. My husband and I have a 3 year old grandson that keeps us running! We get to take care of him two days a week. I really enjoy working with those who primarily have situational and emotional difficulties with anxiety, stress, ego-strength and unresolved relationship or family issues. Anxiety is so prevalent in our society now, it's epidemic.
(608) 802-6444 View (608) 802-6444
Photo of Taylor Lazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Taylor Lazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate openings available! I often work with teens and young adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, stuck in patterns of people-pleasing, or unsure of how to set boundaries without feeling guilty. I also frequently work with women who feel exhausted from trying to hold everything together while quietly struggling with depression, stress, or grief. Are you looking for a safe space to explore your feelings, develop coping skills, or process a difficult experience? I will work with you to find the best way to help - YOU are the expert of your experiences, and I can walk beside you on your mental health journey.
Immediate openings available! I often work with teens and young adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, stuck in patterns of people-pleasing, or unsure of how to set boundaries without feeling guilty. I also frequently work with women who feel exhausted from trying to hold everything together while quietly struggling with depression, stress, or grief. Are you looking for a safe space to explore your feelings, develop coping skills, or process a difficult experience? I will work with you to find the best way to help - YOU are the expert of your experiences, and I can walk beside you on your mental health journey.
(715) 597-7976 View (715) 597-7976
Photo of Heather Beeves, Marriage & Family Therapist, CCTP, STC, LMFT, Med-Ft, DBTC
Heather Beeves
Marriage & Family Therapist, CCTP, STC, LMFT, Med-Ft, DBTC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Never tried therapy before? Are you are feeling frustrated, notice that the same conflictual issues continue to arise, or that your life and relationships are satisfying except for that one thing? We are both licensed marriage and family therapists with additional credentialing in multiple areas to serve you better. Whether it's parent child relationship frustrations, communication difficulties, marital issues, infidelity, sexual problems, employment stressors, depression, anxiety, negative self image, chronic pain, PTSD, self injury or other personal matters, we are specialized to treat a wide variety of symptoms. Co-therapy with both therapists and online counseling is also available!
Never tried therapy before? Are you are feeling frustrated, notice that the same conflictual issues continue to arise, or that your life and relationships are satisfying except for that one thing? We are both licensed marriage and family therapists with additional credentialing in multiple areas to serve you better. Whether it's parent child relationship frustrations, communication difficulties, marital issues, infidelity, sexual problems, employment stressors, depression, anxiety, negative self image, chronic pain, PTSD, self injury or other personal matters, we are specialized to treat a wide variety of symptoms. Co-therapy with both therapists and online counseling is also available!
(715) 309-5814 View (715) 309-5814
Photo of Dorothy E. Birkenmeier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dorothy E. Birkenmeier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rice Lake, WI 54868
Healing doesn't have to be a journey you take alone. I help adolescents and adults navigate the heavy weight of depression and trauma using proven tools like EMDR and DBT. As a mental health therapist, I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship. I'm here to walk alongside you as you work through challenges such as healing past experiences and emotional regulation.
Healing doesn't have to be a journey you take alone. I help adolescents and adults navigate the heavy weight of depression and trauma using proven tools like EMDR and DBT. As a mental health therapist, I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship. I'm here to walk alongside you as you work through challenges such as healing past experiences and emotional regulation.
(715) 229-5333 View (715) 229-5333

See more therapy options for Shell Lake

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Shell Lake, WI

< 10

Therapists in Shell Lake, WI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Family Conflict
100% Suicidal Ideation
100% Marriage Counseling
67% Child
67% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Optum
100% HealthPartners of MN and WI

How Therapists in Shell Lake, WI see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Shell Lake?

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.