Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

View neighborhoods in Phoenix
Photo of Sarah Gallimore, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah Gallimore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a Phoenix-based forensic psychologist with extensive experience in forensic evaluations of adolescents and adults at all stages of criminal and divorce proceedings as well as child abuse and neglect cases. I have provided consultation, diagnostic assessments, forensic psychological assessments, and expert testimony for both prosecution and defense. I am also a court-appointed evaluator for the Superior Court of Arizona, Maricopa County.
I am a Phoenix-based forensic psychologist with extensive experience in forensic evaluations of adolescents and adults at all stages of criminal and divorce proceedings as well as child abuse and neglect cases. I have provided consultation, diagnostic assessments, forensic psychological assessments, and expert testimony for both prosecution and defense. I am also a court-appointed evaluator for the Superior Court of Arizona, Maricopa County.
(480) 351-4875 View (480) 351-4875
Photo of Alex Levitan, PsyD, Psychologist
Alex Levitan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Alex Levitan is the lead Psychologist and Clinical Director of Levitan & Associates Psychological Services where he is responsible for organizing and overseeing all providers and programs within the agency. Outside of his responsibilities with LAPS, Dr. Levitan also provides individual counseling, clinical and forensic evaluations, and psychological consultations for various nonprofit organizations including state and local hospitals, veterans’ health services, and the department of child safety. Alex is currently accepting new clients for his team of providers, contact his office today to request an appointment!
Alex Levitan is the lead Psychologist and Clinical Director of Levitan & Associates Psychological Services where he is responsible for organizing and overseeing all providers and programs within the agency. Outside of his responsibilities with LAPS, Dr. Levitan also provides individual counseling, clinical and forensic evaluations, and psychological consultations for various nonprofit organizations including state and local hospitals, veterans’ health services, and the department of child safety. Alex is currently accepting new clients for his team of providers, contact his office today to request an appointment!
(602) 584-7323 View (602) 584-7323
Photo of Dr. Catherine Van Damme, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Catherine Van Damme
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Anxiety, Selective Mutism, Depression or anger? Meet Dr. Catherine Van Damme, a compassionate licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, and social challenges. Most often she supports clients who want to improve relationships with peers, use their voice at school, and handle big emotions. Dr. Van Damme works with clients (aged 3-21) and parents to help your child truly shine! Through playful activities and friendly conversations, she guides these young individuals on a journey to find their voice and build confidence.
Anxiety, Selective Mutism, Depression or anger? Meet Dr. Catherine Van Damme, a compassionate licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, and social challenges. Most often she supports clients who want to improve relationships with peers, use their voice at school, and handle big emotions. Dr. Van Damme works with clients (aged 3-21) and parents to help your child truly shine! Through playful activities and friendly conversations, she guides these young individuals on a journey to find their voice and build confidence.
(623) 294-5175 View (623) 294-5175
Photo of Sarah Ells, MS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Ells
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Take a deep breath. What do you notice? Maybe it's a heaviness on your shoulders from the worry that kept you up all night. Maybe it's tension on your neck knowing you're walking in the door to another fight with your significant other. Perhaps it's emptiness in your chest from the shame that has been there so long it has left you feeling numb. Although I am not sure exactly what brought you here, I wonder if you are seeking relief. Seeking change. Hoping for something, perhaps anything, different. Different in you, in your marriage, in your child or maybe your whole family. I am glad you're here.
Take a deep breath. What do you notice? Maybe it's a heaviness on your shoulders from the worry that kept you up all night. Maybe it's tension on your neck knowing you're walking in the door to another fight with your significant other. Perhaps it's emptiness in your chest from the shame that has been there so long it has left you feeling numb. Although I am not sure exactly what brought you here, I wonder if you are seeking relief. Seeking change. Hoping for something, perhaps anything, different. Different in you, in your marriage, in your child or maybe your whole family. I am glad you're here.
(480) 372-9392 View (480) 372-9392
Photo of Karolina Coleman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karolina Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
As a mental health therapist, I offer a holistic approach to therapy, which takes into consideration the body, mind, and soul. I focus on individual strengths and believe everyone has the ability to be an active participant in their own healing. I create a secure space where you can share your story, set goals, and make progress toward healing and growth. Together, we will navigate your unique journey so you can start feeling like your best self.
As a mental health therapist, I offer a holistic approach to therapy, which takes into consideration the body, mind, and soul. I focus on individual strengths and believe everyone has the ability to be an active participant in their own healing. I create a secure space where you can share your story, set goals, and make progress toward healing and growth. Together, we will navigate your unique journey so you can start feeling like your best self.
(623) 292-6228 View (623) 292-6228
Photo of Michelle Stupar - Integrative Mind-Body Solutions, LLC, CHT, RMT
Integrative Mind-Body Solutions, LLC
CHT, RMT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85007  (Online Only)
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
(415) 787-4912 View (415) 787-4912
Photo of Ashley Hartwell, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Hartwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I commend you for showing up for yourself and taking action, and I know it can feel overwhelming. I'm here to hold space for you, to meet you where you are, and to ensure you feel safe and seen. I specialize in supporting people living with trauma, eating disorders, and body image/self-esteem struggles. I believe everybody deserves to, and can, live a more peaceful life and I am committed to helping you get there. I will work with you to create the most genuine, authentic therapeutic relationship to support us in deep exploration, processing and powerful healing.
I commend you for showing up for yourself and taking action, and I know it can feel overwhelming. I'm here to hold space for you, to meet you where you are, and to ensure you feel safe and seen. I specialize in supporting people living with trauma, eating disorders, and body image/self-esteem struggles. I believe everybody deserves to, and can, live a more peaceful life and I am committed to helping you get there. I will work with you to create the most genuine, authentic therapeutic relationship to support us in deep exploration, processing and powerful healing.
(480) 210-4992 View (480) 210-4992
Photo of Sarah Matheson, MA, LPC, Counselor
Sarah Matheson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
I have been in the field of psychology and counseling for 30 years with extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I have tailored my private practice to provide a safe atmosphere for adults to address the maladaptive behaviors and difficult emotional states that have created obstacles for them and to move to place where they feel empowered in their lives and relationships. I encourage the client to build on their strengths and to promote self-care and wellness. I use EMDR, a revolutionary trauma treatment as well as a focus on attachment, to treat the lasting effects that difficult experiences may leave.
I have been in the field of psychology and counseling for 30 years with extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I have tailored my private practice to provide a safe atmosphere for adults to address the maladaptive behaviors and difficult emotional states that have created obstacles for them and to move to place where they feel empowered in their lives and relationships. I encourage the client to build on their strengths and to promote self-care and wellness. I use EMDR, a revolutionary trauma treatment as well as a focus on attachment, to treat the lasting effects that difficult experiences may leave.
(602) 734-5973 View (602) 734-5973
Photo of Meryl L Warda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meryl L Warda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Now accepting new clients! I have worked with children and families my entire career in a variety of settings including schools and mental health clinics. I have experience working with children zero to 17 and their families. These children have experienced trauma, behavioral and mental health challenges. I also have experience working with families who are experiencing conflict, communication and parenting issues and utilize evidence based intervention to help improve family health.
Now accepting new clients! I have worked with children and families my entire career in a variety of settings including schools and mental health clinics. I have experience working with children zero to 17 and their families. These children have experienced trauma, behavioral and mental health challenges. I also have experience working with families who are experiencing conflict, communication and parenting issues and utilize evidence based intervention to help improve family health.
(602) 878-6946 View (602) 878-6946
Photo of Ashley Keunhye Park, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley Keunhye Park
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Are you finding yourself lost or overwhelmed trying to navigate a difficult relationship? Perhaps the dynamics in your relationship or family are not working, causing feelings of loneliness, confusion and even hurt. As a marriage and family therapist, I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families find healing within their context and family dynamic. I believe therapy is the process of returning the individual, couple, and family back into their state of beauty and joy. I work with children, adolescents and adults.
Are you finding yourself lost or overwhelmed trying to navigate a difficult relationship? Perhaps the dynamics in your relationship or family are not working, causing feelings of loneliness, confusion and even hurt. As a marriage and family therapist, I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families find healing within their context and family dynamic. I believe therapy is the process of returning the individual, couple, and family back into their state of beauty and joy. I work with children, adolescents and adults.
(928) 384-3767 View (928) 384-3767
Photo of Brianda Teterukov, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brianda Teterukov
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
You're tired and repetitive trauma has kept you in the same old cycles. Anxious thoughts are starting to creep in. You feel too much or too little emotion. Body aches and stress bring up sadness and frustration. You keep asking yourself, “Why can't I feel good enough?” Glimpses of the person you were show up now and then, so you hope for better days to come. You want to be content, even though you find yourself in one-way relationships. If only you could set boundaries without shutting down, if only you could let go of the past, if only you could move forward. You long for connection and healing to connect your mind and body.
You're tired and repetitive trauma has kept you in the same old cycles. Anxious thoughts are starting to creep in. You feel too much or too little emotion. Body aches and stress bring up sadness and frustration. You keep asking yourself, “Why can't I feel good enough?” Glimpses of the person you were show up now and then, so you hope for better days to come. You want to be content, even though you find yourself in one-way relationships. If only you could set boundaries without shutting down, if only you could let go of the past, if only you could move forward. You long for connection and healing to connect your mind and body.
(623) 632-1340 View (623) 632-1340
Photo of Monica Mccue, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Mccue
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013
I believe it is important to meet my clients where they are. I practice a strength-based approach in order to help clients facilitate positive and healthy changes in their lives.
I believe it is important to meet my clients where they are. I practice a strength-based approach in order to help clients facilitate positive and healthy changes in their lives.
(480) 787-0213 View (480) 787-0213
Photo of Run Your Life Counseling Smith - Run Your Life Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Run Your Life Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
NEW Clients NOW Accepted! Run Your Life Counseling has OPEN availability! Sliding scale options available! Telehealth and in person availability- Immediate Openings! Teens/Adults/Couples/Evenings Life is a journey which can be wonderful at times, but it can also be a difficult process and adjustment. If you are struggling with feeling sad or overwhelmed, you are not alone, and I am here to help! I offer emotional and therapeutic support to those experiencing anxiety and depressive symptoms due to life transitions. My passion is helping individuals navigate their journey to and through life goals.
NEW Clients NOW Accepted! Run Your Life Counseling has OPEN availability! Sliding scale options available! Telehealth and in person availability- Immediate Openings! Teens/Adults/Couples/Evenings Life is a journey which can be wonderful at times, but it can also be a difficult process and adjustment. If you are struggling with feeling sad or overwhelmed, you are not alone, and I am here to help! I offer emotional and therapeutic support to those experiencing anxiety and depressive symptoms due to life transitions. My passion is helping individuals navigate their journey to and through life goals.
(480) 613-4069 View (480) 613-4069
Photo of Noelle Espineli, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Noelle Espineli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
My years of academic and professional experience have allowed me to effectively work with a diverse client population of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and behavioral/mental health issues, especially those experiencing difficult life circumstances. I strive to help clients navigate situations related to burnout, existential crises, mindfulness, self-care, distress intolerance, interpersonal conflicts, and life transitions.
My years of academic and professional experience have allowed me to effectively work with a diverse client population of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and behavioral/mental health issues, especially those experiencing difficult life circumstances. I strive to help clients navigate situations related to burnout, existential crises, mindfulness, self-care, distress intolerance, interpersonal conflicts, and life transitions.
(623) 281-2658 View (623) 281-2658
Photo of Ericka J Valdez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ericka J Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Finding a therapist is like dating, not everyone who takes you out to dinner will be “the one”. The number one factor that assist people in reaching their full potential in therapy, is the relationship between the Client and therapist. Ericka has a reputation of quickly establishing trust and rapport with Clients, and individuals from all walks of life. Expect a caring and energetic creative therapist, who utilizes science and humor to help you, help yourself! My ideal Clients are children, adolescents and adults ages 4-50 who may be full of energy, creativity, loudness, craziness, sadness, and even madness.
Finding a therapist is like dating, not everyone who takes you out to dinner will be “the one”. The number one factor that assist people in reaching their full potential in therapy, is the relationship between the Client and therapist. Ericka has a reputation of quickly establishing trust and rapport with Clients, and individuals from all walks of life. Expect a caring and energetic creative therapist, who utilizes science and humor to help you, help yourself! My ideal Clients are children, adolescents and adults ages 4-50 who may be full of energy, creativity, loudness, craziness, sadness, and even madness.
(602) 780-0331 View (602) 780-0331
Photo of Halina Brooke, MS, LPC, Counselor
Halina Brooke
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Maybe coming to therapy is an easy, intuitive next step for you. You know and trust yourself to find just the right counselor. You know what you need from therapy to support your relationships, career/life satisfaction, self-care needs, or trauma recovery. I trust your inner wisdom and can’t wait to collaborate with you. Or, maybe you’re more tentative about this whole “therapy” thing. Life may have taught you that trust is precious–that reaching out for support could be dangerous. You may have even gotten the message not to believe in or advocate for yourself. Well, this might be a surprise: I also trust *your* inner wisdom.
Maybe coming to therapy is an easy, intuitive next step for you. You know and trust yourself to find just the right counselor. You know what you need from therapy to support your relationships, career/life satisfaction, self-care needs, or trauma recovery. I trust your inner wisdom and can’t wait to collaborate with you. Or, maybe you’re more tentative about this whole “therapy” thing. Life may have taught you that trust is precious–that reaching out for support could be dangerous. You may have even gotten the message not to believe in or advocate for yourself. Well, this might be a surprise: I also trust *your* inner wisdom.
(602) 755-3068 View (602) 755-3068
Photo of Kyle Payne, LAC, LPC Intern
Kyle Payne
LPC Intern, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
My ideal client is someone who wants to feel better but has struggled to find success through traditional talk therapy. They are tired of struggling through life and are motivated to find a solution that gets to the source of the problem and simply need a guide to help them get there. Their ultimate goal is to solve the mental health issues at the root cause so they can live the best life possible.
My ideal client is someone who wants to feel better but has struggled to find success through traditional talk therapy. They are tired of struggling through life and are motivated to find a solution that gets to the source of the problem and simply need a guide to help them get there. Their ultimate goal is to solve the mental health issues at the root cause so they can live the best life possible.
(623) 471-1973 View (623) 471-1973
Photo of Megan Chapman, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85054  (Online Only)
In a world with so much information, making decisions, managing anxiety, and setting boundaries can be difficult. You might feel stuck trying to find a work-self-relationship balance or struggling to connect with your partner or family meaningfully. Choosing therapy as a path to resolving these inner conflicts and relational stress can improve your overall happiness. By identifying your needs and building healthier relationships, you can learn to take concrete steps toward improving your life.
In a world with so much information, making decisions, managing anxiety, and setting boundaries can be difficult. You might feel stuck trying to find a work-self-relationship balance or struggling to connect with your partner or family meaningfully. Choosing therapy as a path to resolving these inner conflicts and relational stress can improve your overall happiness. By identifying your needs and building healthier relationships, you can learn to take concrete steps toward improving your life.
(602) 671-3279 View (602) 671-3279
Photo of Amanda Hicks, MS, LAC, Counselor
Amanda Hicks
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
Life is a journey, and I am here to support you on that journey! My focus is on the therapeutic relationship with the client, and I believe counseling is a collaborative effort. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, self-worth, relationship and substance use issues.
Life is a journey, and I am here to support you on that journey! My focus is on the therapeutic relationship with the client, and I believe counseling is a collaborative effort. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, self-worth, relationship and substance use issues.
(602) 362-8505 View (602) 362-8505
Photo of Deborah Shoman - Shoman Center for Stress Management, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shoman Center for Stress Management, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020
WEEKEND & EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. I was trained in New York and have over 20 years of counseling/therapy experience. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and predominantly utilize EMDR therapy and cognitive behavioral approaches in my practice. I believe that you are, and always will be, the foremost expert on you. My approach is very direct, honest, and specifically tailored to your needs. The most important part of the therapeutic experience is our working relationship. I will work as your partner through the entire therapeutic process. I also believe that humor can sometimes be an asset in our work.
WEEKEND & EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. I was trained in New York and have over 20 years of counseling/therapy experience. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and predominantly utilize EMDR therapy and cognitive behavioral approaches in my practice. I believe that you are, and always will be, the foremost expert on you. My approach is very direct, honest, and specifically tailored to your needs. The most important part of the therapeutic experience is our working relationship. I will work as your partner through the entire therapeutic process. I also believe that humor can sometimes be an asset in our work.
(480) 418-8065 View (480) 418-8065

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Self Esteem
70% Stress
68% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenix?

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.