Therapists in Springfield, OH

Photo of Laura Lippencott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, OH
Laura Lippencott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45503
Life is everchanging and we go through a variety of chapters. Some feel quite challenging and there are benefits to having someone alongside us as we navigate them. I admire the bravery behind self-advocating for support and look forward to working with you or your child to offer help.
Life is everchanging and we go through a variety of chapters. Some feel quite challenging and there are benefits to having someone alongside us as we navigate them. I admire the bravery behind self-advocating for support and look forward to working with you or your child to offer help.
(937) 872-3999 View (937) 872-3999
Photo of Aidan Horstman , Counselor in Springfield, OH
Aidan Horstman
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45503
Life is full of challenges, both external and internal that disrupt our well-being. I offer individual personal counseling with the goal of learning to work through these challenges, to overcome them when they can be overcome, and to cope through them when they cannot. My approach is rooted in integrating the strengths you already have, the skills and techniques I can provide, and the insights we can develop together. Even work on a small problem can be a springboard to increased psychological flexibility and emotional resilience. Let's get the rhythm of your life back!
Life is full of challenges, both external and internal that disrupt our well-being. I offer individual personal counseling with the goal of learning to work through these challenges, to overcome them when they can be overcome, and to cope through them when they cannot. My approach is rooted in integrating the strengths you already have, the skills and techniques I can provide, and the insights we can develop together. Even work on a small problem can be a springboard to increased psychological flexibility and emotional resilience. Let's get the rhythm of your life back!
(937) 930-4805 View (937) 930-4805
Photo of Carrie D Dennis, Counselor in Springfield, OH
Carrie D Dennis
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45505
My license concentrates on individual, marriage, family counseling, and play therapy for children. I have a specific interest and training in counseling anxiety, blended families, depression, grief, and working with children of variety of issues. I have earned my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My experience as a professional started in 1995 treating children and adolescents in a long term residential counseling program to private practice for 20 years. My goal is being committed to offering comfort, healing and wholeness to those who are hurting.
My license concentrates on individual, marriage, family counseling, and play therapy for children. I have a specific interest and training in counseling anxiety, blended families, depression, grief, and working with children of variety of issues. I have earned my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My experience as a professional started in 1995 treating children and adolescents in a long term residential counseling program to private practice for 20 years. My goal is being committed to offering comfort, healing and wholeness to those who are hurting.
(614) 504-4354 View (614) 504-4354
Photo of Brave Life Pastoral Counseling, LLC, Pastoral Counselor in Springfield, OH
Brave Life Pastoral Counseling, LLC
Pastoral Counselor, MA, BCCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45503
Derek Ellis (MA, BCCC) is a 2016 graduate of Liberty University with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling with a specialization in life coaching. Derek is a Board Certified Christian Counselor through the Board of Christian Professional and Pastoral Counselors, a professional organization associated with the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Derek Ellis (MA, BCCC) is a 2016 graduate of Liberty University with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling with a specialization in life coaching. Derek is a Board Certified Christian Counselor through the Board of Christian Professional and Pastoral Counselors, a professional organization associated with the American Association of Christian Counselors.
(937) 858-1946 View (937) 858-1946
Photo of Aizhan Kydykeeva, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, OH
Aizhan Kydykeeva
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45503
Dude. Have you felt d i f f e r e n t since 2020? Like, it’s hard to describe and pinpoint it, but you know/feel/sense that you’re now somehow different? For instance, you don’t like the same things you used to like (food, shows, music, places, p e o p l e - you name it)… and overall, you just feel oddly disconnected from your current lifestyle. Maybe you feel “trapped” or “stuck” and don’t know where to go or what comes next? Here’s another BIG one – you’ve rarely felt like you truly belonged in this world. Like, something is unique about YOU. You’re a weirdo - always have been. Congrats!
Dude. Have you felt d i f f e r e n t since 2020? Like, it’s hard to describe and pinpoint it, but you know/feel/sense that you’re now somehow different? For instance, you don’t like the same things you used to like (food, shows, music, places, p e o p l e - you name it)… and overall, you just feel oddly disconnected from your current lifestyle. Maybe you feel “trapped” or “stuck” and don’t know where to go or what comes next? Here’s another BIG one – you’ve rarely felt like you truly belonged in this world. Like, something is unique about YOU. You’re a weirdo - always have been. Congrats!
(937) 583-6807 View (937) 583-6807
Sharon E McElya
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45503  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Sharon and I am a young adult, adult and older adult trauma informed psychotherapist who has been in practice for more than 10 years. I work with individuals to help them achieve their goals and move towards the existence that they desire. Issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, low self esteem and other concerns are barriers to people living as authentically as they desire. Other concerns including self harm behaviors, suicidal ideations and sleep disturbances also impede the process of growth. I work collaborative with clients to address these concerns.
Hi! My name is Sharon and I am a young adult, adult and older adult trauma informed psychotherapist who has been in practice for more than 10 years. I work with individuals to help them achieve their goals and move towards the existence that they desire. Issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, low self esteem and other concerns are barriers to people living as authentically as they desire. Other concerns including self harm behaviors, suicidal ideations and sleep disturbances also impede the process of growth. I work collaborative with clients to address these concerns.
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Photo of John Waite, Counselor in Springfield, OH
John Waite
Counselor, MDiv, MAPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45504
I work with those who suffer with depression and/or anxiety. You may want to consider that there is meaning in your suffering. Only you can determine what the meaning is; however, talking with a skilled counselor can speed up the process of recovery from your symptoms. I have worked for the past twenty years with adults of all ages as a pastoral counselor and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in West Central Ohio to help persons discover their path to increased satisfaction, contentment, and well-being.
I work with those who suffer with depression and/or anxiety. You may want to consider that there is meaning in your suffering. Only you can determine what the meaning is; however, talking with a skilled counselor can speed up the process of recovery from your symptoms. I have worked for the past twenty years with adults of all ages as a pastoral counselor and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in West Central Ohio to help persons discover their path to increased satisfaction, contentment, and well-being.
(937) 813-6172 View (937) 813-6172
Photo of Emily Neely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, OH
Emily Neely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45502
Some of my favorite referrals include trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mood Disorders, issues of adjustment, phase of life issues, as well as family of origin issues.
Some of my favorite referrals include trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mood Disorders, issues of adjustment, phase of life issues, as well as family of origin issues.
(937) 909-1862 View (937) 909-1862
Photo of Torie Nier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, OH
Torie Nier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45505
I work with adult clients (18+) from all backgrounds and walks of life, providing a safe, accepting, and judgment-free environment to promote healing. Traditional approaches to therapy often focus on gaining awareness of our problems. Many of us are already aware of our problems—we want solutions! I walk with you to confront your barriers as we build on your unique strengths and bridge the gap between knowing to solving, from surviving to thriving!
I work with adult clients (18+) from all backgrounds and walks of life, providing a safe, accepting, and judgment-free environment to promote healing. Traditional approaches to therapy often focus on gaining awareness of our problems. Many of us are already aware of our problems—we want solutions! I walk with you to confront your barriers as we build on your unique strengths and bridge the gap between knowing to solving, from surviving to thriving!
(937) 964-7177 View (937) 964-7177
Photo of Chris LeMaster, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Springfield, OH
Chris LeMaster
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45503
Does it ever feel like you are making the same mistakes over and over? Do you feel stuck, almost like you are losing hope that change is actually possible? Maybe you are questioning making a major life change and could use some help processing it through? I am passionate about you experiencing personal growth and breakthrough. I focus on where you've gotten stuck in unhealthy patterns and unhealthy negative thinking loops. Better awareness of what is holding you back is the first step toward positive change and healthier choices in your life.
Does it ever feel like you are making the same mistakes over and over? Do you feel stuck, almost like you are losing hope that change is actually possible? Maybe you are questioning making a major life change and could use some help processing it through? I am passionate about you experiencing personal growth and breakthrough. I focus on where you've gotten stuck in unhealthy patterns and unhealthy negative thinking loops. Better awareness of what is holding you back is the first step toward positive change and healthier choices in your life.
(937) 749-7103 View (937) 749-7103
Photo of Debra Cypryla — Lighthouse Of Healing Counseling Services Llc, Counselor in Springfield, OH
Debra Cypryla — Lighthouse Of Healing Counseling Services Llc
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, CCTP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45503
Self-awareness to know when to contact a counselor for therapy is the first step to reaching your goal. Are you seeking help with coping skills and relief from intrusive mental thoughts you are unable to escape? Are you someone dealing with intrusive mental health issues that are impeding your ability to function in your daily life? Do you seek help to learn healthy ways of dealing with stress, anxiety, and gain emotional regulation? I would like to work with individuals who want to be accepted, who want to be met where they are, and who need help to get to where they want to be.
Self-awareness to know when to contact a counselor for therapy is the first step to reaching your goal. Are you seeking help with coping skills and relief from intrusive mental thoughts you are unable to escape? Are you someone dealing with intrusive mental health issues that are impeding your ability to function in your daily life? Do you seek help to learn healthy ways of dealing with stress, anxiety, and gain emotional regulation? I would like to work with individuals who want to be accepted, who want to be met where they are, and who need help to get to where they want to be.
(937) 468-4299 View (937) 468-4299
Photo of Amazing Brain Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, OH
Amazing Brain Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, PCC-S, LICDC-S
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45503
Our brains are amazing and have the ability to heal from past and present painful experiences! Life is full of twists and turns and sometimes we get stuck. Therapy is an effective way to help us get back on track. I am passionate about working with people and helping them to be their best selves!
Our brains are amazing and have the ability to heal from past and present painful experiences! Life is full of twists and turns and sometimes we get stuck. Therapy is an effective way to help us get back on track. I am passionate about working with people and helping them to be their best selves!
(937) 230-7276 View (937) 230-7276
Photo of Carla Tamplin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, OH
Carla Tamplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45506  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with parenthood? Maybe that means having difficulty achieving/maintaining pregnancy, or struggling with a postpartum transition. Our society does not always give women and families the support they need to thrive, or a safe place to talk about issues such as miscarriage, birth trauma or infant loss. I want to be that safe place. Issues such as infertility, postpartum depression or anxiety and adoption can make what should be a joyful time into one of the most difficult times of one's life instead. I would be honored to walk with you in creating the family you want and becoming the best parent you can be!
Are you struggling with parenthood? Maybe that means having difficulty achieving/maintaining pregnancy, or struggling with a postpartum transition. Our society does not always give women and families the support they need to thrive, or a safe place to talk about issues such as miscarriage, birth trauma or infant loss. I want to be that safe place. Issues such as infertility, postpartum depression or anxiety and adoption can make what should be a joyful time into one of the most difficult times of one's life instead. I would be honored to walk with you in creating the family you want and becoming the best parent you can be!
(937) 828-4639 View (937) 828-4639
Photo of Trish Mairet - Insight Therapy Works, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Springfield, OH
Trish Mairet - Insight Therapy Works
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA MFTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45504  (Online Only)
My focus is to help those with Anxiety to move beyond overwhelming patterns of negative thinking that can lead to Depression. If you have trauma and deal with conflict with family, coworkers or others, we will explore ways to help to reduce the symptoms that cause discomfort and emotional pain and allow for more balance. I have experience working at Community Counseling Centers, Hospital Medical Social Work, County Mental Health Crisis and In-Patient psychiatric hospitals. From these positions I chose to return to private practice therapy in order to focus and work in-depth with adults, families, couples, seniors and groups.
My focus is to help those with Anxiety to move beyond overwhelming patterns of negative thinking that can lead to Depression. If you have trauma and deal with conflict with family, coworkers or others, we will explore ways to help to reduce the symptoms that cause discomfort and emotional pain and allow for more balance. I have experience working at Community Counseling Centers, Hospital Medical Social Work, County Mental Health Crisis and In-Patient psychiatric hospitals. From these positions I chose to return to private practice therapy in order to focus and work in-depth with adults, families, couples, seniors and groups.
(937) 446-6106 View (937) 446-6106
Photo of Telehealth Positive Perspectives Inc. Online, Psychologist in Springfield, OH
Telehealth Positive Perspectives Inc. Online
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LISW, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45502  (Online Only)
Are you looking for counseling sessions at the touch of a button? You can find what you need at Positive Perspectives Counseling Online. We offer you mental health care from the comfort of your Ohio home or office. Our Telehealth psychologists, social workers, and counselors will work with you to design a unique counseling plan that will work best for your circumstances. Applying to become a PPInc. Client is as easy as checking out our website ( ppinc.group ) and clicking on our Home Page's "Online Form." Just clicking the button will take you to our HIPAA-secure digital form: Application to Become a PPInc. Client. Check us out!
Are you looking for counseling sessions at the touch of a button? You can find what you need at Positive Perspectives Counseling Online. We offer you mental health care from the comfort of your Ohio home or office. Our Telehealth psychologists, social workers, and counselors will work with you to design a unique counseling plan that will work best for your circumstances. Applying to become a PPInc. Client is as easy as checking out our website ( ppinc.group ) and clicking on our Home Page's "Online Form." Just clicking the button will take you to our HIPAA-secure digital form: Application to Become a PPInc. Client. Check us out!
(937) 900-9214 x10 View (937) 900-9214 x10
Photo of Jillian Potter-Bonsell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, OH
Jillian Potter-Bonsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45502
Waitlist for new clients
It is my privilege and joy to provide a safe and supportive environment for each client that I work with. Using a holistic approach to healing, I've been providing counseling services for over 11 years. I specialize in working with survivors of complex traumas such as sexual abuse, human trafficking and domestic violence, or one-time incidents such as a car accident or sudden loss. I am certified in EMDR and trained in Brainspotting, and I incorporate IFS and other modalities. I'm happy to announce that I am now offering neurofeedback sessions as well, using the Neuroptimal system, in combination with EMDR or as a separate service.
It is my privilege and joy to provide a safe and supportive environment for each client that I work with. Using a holistic approach to healing, I've been providing counseling services for over 11 years. I specialize in working with survivors of complex traumas such as sexual abuse, human trafficking and domestic violence, or one-time incidents such as a car accident or sudden loss. I am certified in EMDR and trained in Brainspotting, and I incorporate IFS and other modalities. I'm happy to announce that I am now offering neurofeedback sessions as well, using the Neuroptimal system, in combination with EMDR or as a separate service.
(937) 966-6017 View (937) 966-6017
Photo of Michele Baiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, OH
Michele Baiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45503
I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy. I believe it is important to learn a person, their history, their goals, and their daily experiences so as to form the best treatment approach to address various needs. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families and have worked extensively with trauma survivors. I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. I treat individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, addiction, and stress associated with life transitions.
I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy. I believe it is important to learn a person, their history, their goals, and their daily experiences so as to form the best treatment approach to address various needs. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families and have worked extensively with trauma survivors. I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. I treat individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, addiction, and stress associated with life transitions.
(937) 230-8436 View (937) 230-8436
Photo of Tracy Hunt MSEd, LPCC at Turning Inward LLC , Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Springfield, OH
Tracy Hunt MSEd, LPCC at Turning Inward LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45504
Great to meet you! My name is Tracy Hunt, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I provide adult clients a safe atmosphere of acceptance that promotes healing and deepens understanding. I have experience working with various populations and have a diverse background including people with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and adjusting to life changes.
Great to meet you! My name is Tracy Hunt, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I provide adult clients a safe atmosphere of acceptance that promotes healing and deepens understanding. I have experience working with various populations and have a diverse background including people with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and adjusting to life changes.
(937) 530-4287 View (937) 530-4287
Photo of Angie Kaskocsak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, OH
Angie Kaskocsak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45504
Finding the right therapist can be frustrating and challenging! Hopefully, I can make your search a little easier. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide the judgment-free, trusting environment necessary to explore vulnerabilities and foster healing. I work with a diverse client base including people of various ages, backgrounds, and mental health diagnoses. I have advanced training in CBT, DBT and and I’m also well-versed in cognitive, mindfulness.
Finding the right therapist can be frustrating and challenging! Hopefully, I can make your search a little easier. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide the judgment-free, trusting environment necessary to explore vulnerabilities and foster healing. I work with a diverse client base including people of various ages, backgrounds, and mental health diagnoses. I have advanced training in CBT, DBT and and I’m also well-versed in cognitive, mindfulness.
(937) 897-9583 View (937) 897-9583
Photo of Shannel Hawkins Counseling & Clinical Supervision, Counselor in Springfield, OH
Shannel Hawkins Counseling & Clinical Supervision
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45506
Waitlist for new clients
When deciding to seek counseling, finding just the right person to take on the personal journey is important.  Whether it is necessary to go back to your past/meeting you where you are, I will go on this journey with you to assist in moving you forward. Stuck or in a never-ending unhealthy cycle, I am here to help you recognize, tap in, and utilize your strengths to improve & create a healthy functioning YOU! LPCs: As a Clinical Supervisor, I will support & guide with care & integrity. I am willing to study with you to pass your LPCC exam. Once independent, I provide assistance towards getting credentialed. Package Deal!
When deciding to seek counseling, finding just the right person to take on the personal journey is important.  Whether it is necessary to go back to your past/meeting you where you are, I will go on this journey with you to assist in moving you forward. Stuck or in a never-ending unhealthy cycle, I am here to help you recognize, tap in, and utilize your strengths to improve & create a healthy functioning YOU! LPCs: As a Clinical Supervisor, I will support & guide with care & integrity. I am willing to study with you to pass your LPCC exam. Once independent, I provide assistance towards getting credentialed. Package Deal!
(614) 379-6360 View (614) 379-6360

See more therapy options for Springfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, OH

30+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Springfield, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
83% Self Esteem
80% Trauma and PTSD
77% Coping Skills
77% Stress
63% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

72% Aetna
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Springfield, OH see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.