Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of James Bass, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
James Bass
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
There are so many reasons you may be interested in therapy. You may find yourself in a season where you want deeper connection, or just have a feeling something needs to change. You may be in a relationship that seems stuck in a distressing pattern of conflict and are looking for hope. You may notice yourself reacting, escaping, or coasting through life. You are not alone. One of the most courageous and sacred things we can ever do is to open up to someone we trust and let them speak into our life. That is what I'm here for.
There are so many reasons you may be interested in therapy. You may find yourself in a season where you want deeper connection, or just have a feeling something needs to change. You may be in a relationship that seems stuck in a distressing pattern of conflict and are looking for hope. You may notice yourself reacting, escaping, or coasting through life. You are not alone. One of the most courageous and sacred things we can ever do is to open up to someone we trust and let them speak into our life. That is what I'm here for.
(682) 463-1271 View (682) 463-1271
Photo of Jessica Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jessica Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
Your anger seems to be creeping up more and more lately, or maybe you're struggling with feelings of "never good enough"- I get it. Those feelings can be difficult to work through, so please know that you don't have to navigate these issues alone. Together, we can work to uncover your deeper, primary concerns, begin challenging your automatic negative thoughts, and learn practical coping strategies to help improve your quality of life, all while analyzing your concerns through a nonjudgmental and compassionate lens and gaining clearer insight.
Your anger seems to be creeping up more and more lately, or maybe you're struggling with feelings of "never good enough"- I get it. Those feelings can be difficult to work through, so please know that you don't have to navigate these issues alone. Together, we can work to uncover your deeper, primary concerns, begin challenging your automatic negative thoughts, and learn practical coping strategies to help improve your quality of life, all while analyzing your concerns through a nonjudgmental and compassionate lens and gaining clearer insight.
(214) 884-4994 View (214) 884-4994
Photo of Susan M Spruill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Susan M Spruill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
Sometimes people with the worst pasts end up creating the best futures. It is my goal as a therapist to help you reach that future. We all have struggles, failures and regrets. Acknowledging them and realizing that change is necessary is a courageous step forward. No matter what obstacles you bring to my office, you can expect to be met with non-judgment, compassion, professionalism and authenticity. I promise to provide you a safe place to examine what is causing you emotional distress and to help you explore and develop new cognitive and emotional skills to overcome the barriers that are keeping you from living your best life!
Sometimes people with the worst pasts end up creating the best futures. It is my goal as a therapist to help you reach that future. We all have struggles, failures and regrets. Acknowledging them and realizing that change is necessary is a courageous step forward. No matter what obstacles you bring to my office, you can expect to be met with non-judgment, compassion, professionalism and authenticity. I promise to provide you a safe place to examine what is causing you emotional distress and to help you explore and develop new cognitive and emotional skills to overcome the barriers that are keeping you from living your best life!
(972) 977-8571 View (972) 977-8571
Photo of Robyn Webster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Robyn Webster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75094  (Online Only)
Life can have it's challenges. Many of us rarely predict that one of those challenges will involve growing your family. I have a passion for helping those who might be undergoing fertility treatments, have experienced pregnancy loss, or are navigating maternal mental health related symptoms. My work also focuses on how these intersect with generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, and religious trauma/spiritual abuse. I am a safe space and affirming of all identities and relationship structures.
Life can have it's challenges. Many of us rarely predict that one of those challenges will involve growing your family. I have a passion for helping those who might be undergoing fertility treatments, have experienced pregnancy loss, or are navigating maternal mental health related symptoms. My work also focuses on how these intersect with generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, and religious trauma/spiritual abuse. I am a safe space and affirming of all identities and relationship structures.
(469) 715-3961 View (469) 715-3961
Photo of Heather Harvey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Heather Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MS, LPC, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
As a mental health professional, I approach counseling in a way in which the client feels they are being listened to and validated, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twelve years of experience. I have counseled families in areas including foster care and adoption, medical hospitals, inner-city communities, private school, and psychiatric facilities. I presently work at a private practice in Plano and specialize in anxiety, anger, depression, and struggles with mood, also providing pre-marital and marital counseling as well.
As a mental health professional, I approach counseling in a way in which the client feels they are being listened to and validated, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twelve years of experience. I have counseled families in areas including foster care and adoption, medical hospitals, inner-city communities, private school, and psychiatric facilities. I presently work at a private practice in Plano and specialize in anxiety, anger, depression, and struggles with mood, also providing pre-marital and marital counseling as well.
(972) 885-3565 View (972) 885-3565
Photo of Erica Carpenter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Erica Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I enjoy working with couples and adult individuals from a collaborative, strengths-based approach. My focus is on helping clients to build positive relationships and find personal growth in the process. I believe that everyone has the potential to make positive change in their lives, and I see my role as walking alongside them in their journey towards this change. I also believe that many of us have trouble expressing our true, authentic selves, but that once we feel safe to do so, we thrive both individually and within our relationships. I work to create a safe space for clients to explore this authentic self.
I enjoy working with couples and adult individuals from a collaborative, strengths-based approach. My focus is on helping clients to build positive relationships and find personal growth in the process. I believe that everyone has the potential to make positive change in their lives, and I see my role as walking alongside them in their journey towards this change. I also believe that many of us have trouble expressing our true, authentic selves, but that once we feel safe to do so, we thrive both individually and within our relationships. I work to create a safe space for clients to explore this authentic self.
(832) 730-4288 View (832) 730-4288
Photo of Family Therapy Plano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Family Therapy Plano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and psychological problems, working with all ages - individuals, couples, and families. I have helped developmentally delayed children and their families, as well as troubled teenagers in need of residential treatment. I participated in research regarding successful parenting practices, and have facilitated positive change in some children by working just with the parents.
I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and psychological problems, working with all ages - individuals, couples, and families. I have helped developmentally delayed children and their families, as well as troubled teenagers in need of residential treatment. I participated in research regarding successful parenting practices, and have facilitated positive change in some children by working just with the parents.
(469) 215-5551 View (469) 215-5551
Photo of Amber Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Amber Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023  (Online Only)
I have been in the field since 2013 with a primary focus of working with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma, life transitions, depression, and many other mental health needs. I received my B.S degree in Psychology at Oklahoma Wesleyan University and my M.S degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lubbock Christian University. I have been trained in AF-EMDR through the Parnell Institute.
I have been in the field since 2013 with a primary focus of working with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma, life transitions, depression, and many other mental health needs. I received my B.S degree in Psychology at Oklahoma Wesleyan University and my M.S degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lubbock Christian University. I have been trained in AF-EMDR through the Parnell Institute.
(214) 516-7017 View (214) 516-7017
Photo of McCartney James Paul, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
McCartney James Paul
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
As your counselor, I will meet you wherever you are and walk alongside you toward growth and positive change. I offer professional Christian counseling for children, teens, couples, adult individuals, families, and groups. Others have described me as having a genuine, warm personality and I sincerely enjoy building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Whether you’re dealing with depression, relationship issues, chemical dependency, anxiety, trauma, anger, or other concerns, I would be honored to listen to your story and work with you to develop an effective treatment plan to best meet your needs and goals.
As your counselor, I will meet you wherever you are and walk alongside you toward growth and positive change. I offer professional Christian counseling for children, teens, couples, adult individuals, families, and groups. Others have described me as having a genuine, warm personality and I sincerely enjoy building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Whether you’re dealing with depression, relationship issues, chemical dependency, anxiety, trauma, anger, or other concerns, I would be honored to listen to your story and work with you to develop an effective treatment plan to best meet your needs and goals.
(469) 564-8366 View (469) 564-8366
Photo of Dena R Kohleriter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Dena R Kohleriter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
We all have times when we feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. Whether it is in our relationships with friends, partners, or children, sometimes we just need someone to walk with us on our journey. I strive to cultivate a safe, accepting, and authentic environment, meeting the client where they are. I have more than two decades of experience working with individuals and families seeking support on issues related to anxiety, depression, parenting, dating relationships, women's issues, trauma, grief, bullying, and peer relationships.
We all have times when we feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. Whether it is in our relationships with friends, partners, or children, sometimes we just need someone to walk with us on our journey. I strive to cultivate a safe, accepting, and authentic environment, meeting the client where they are. I have more than two decades of experience working with individuals and families seeking support on issues related to anxiety, depression, parenting, dating relationships, women's issues, trauma, grief, bullying, and peer relationships.
(214) 225-4173 View (214) 225-4173
Photo of Christy L Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Christy L Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW-S, BCN, BCB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Are you wondering if there is a safe, fun, and non-invasive therapy to help with your child's social, emotional, and behavioral needs? I work with children, teens, & adults with anxiety or attentional issues, and offer both bio/neurofeedback training and interactive metronome training. I also administer and analyze QEEG's. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have counseled for a combined 17 years in several clinical and medical settings and have a strong background in career/life coaching. I am also Board Certified in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback through BCIA, the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance organization.
Are you wondering if there is a safe, fun, and non-invasive therapy to help with your child's social, emotional, and behavioral needs? I work with children, teens, & adults with anxiety or attentional issues, and offer both bio/neurofeedback training and interactive metronome training. I also administer and analyze QEEG's. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have counseled for a combined 17 years in several clinical and medical settings and have a strong background in career/life coaching. I am also Board Certified in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback through BCIA, the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance organization.
(214) 307-8367 View (214) 307-8367
Photo of Ryan Eberst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ryan Eberst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RFPT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessions, or other symptoms but are uncertain as to why you continue to struggle? Do you find yourself excited by a new relationship or work situation only to find yourself repeating similar patterns again? Maybe the stresses of daily living are getting to you and need better ways of coping, but are unsure where to start. Or perhaps you are generally dissatisfied with your life, but unsure about what in particular is getting to you.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessions, or other symptoms but are uncertain as to why you continue to struggle? Do you find yourself excited by a new relationship or work situation only to find yourself repeating similar patterns again? Maybe the stresses of daily living are getting to you and need better ways of coping, but are unsure where to start. Or perhaps you are generally dissatisfied with your life, but unsure about what in particular is getting to you.
(972) 843-9743 View (972) 843-9743
Photo of Sarah E Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sarah E Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, E-RYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Sometimes, the smallest steps can lead to the biggest change! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hour, and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider. I have been providing services in the DFW area since 2007, including services for children, adults, and families. Through a warm and caring approach, I can help you find within yourself the positive qualities to help you feel empowered. I can help you understand yourself and/or your child more fully, to be ready to face the big and little challenges that life can throw your way.
Sometimes, the smallest steps can lead to the biggest change! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hour, and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider. I have been providing services in the DFW area since 2007, including services for children, adults, and families. Through a warm and caring approach, I can help you find within yourself the positive qualities to help you feel empowered. I can help you understand yourself and/or your child more fully, to be ready to face the big and little challenges that life can throw your way.
(469) 698-3590 View (469) 698-3590
Photo of Brooke McGillewie, Licensed Master Social Worker in Plano, TX
Brooke McGillewie
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
If you are reading this, you likely have spent quite some time trying to pick out the "perfect" therapist for you. Finding someone you connect with and feel safe in sharing your life experience with can feel like a daunting task. I hope to be that person for all of the clients I work with. I firmly believe in taking a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy and like to meet my clients where they are at. I also know that each human being is different, and therefore will have different needs in therapy. As such, I like to tailor my care to meet each of those unique needs with an individualized approach.
If you are reading this, you likely have spent quite some time trying to pick out the "perfect" therapist for you. Finding someone you connect with and feel safe in sharing your life experience with can feel like a daunting task. I hope to be that person for all of the clients I work with. I firmly believe in taking a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy and like to meet my clients where they are at. I also know that each human being is different, and therefore will have different needs in therapy. As such, I like to tailor my care to meet each of those unique needs with an individualized approach.
(469) 640-3689 View (469) 640-3689
Photo of Janet L Maltos, Licensed Master Social Worker in Plano, TX
Janet L Maltos
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space with zero judgment. My goal is to help you navigate life’s struggles in a way that’s empowering drawing from your true strengths. Cultivating a place of growth and self discovery to enable a more positive outlook to life is my overall mission. During my time in the military, I realized my gift was to help people with their mental health instead of physically protecting them. My areas of specialty are anxiety, depression, grief, transitional periods, substance use, and trauma.
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space with zero judgment. My goal is to help you navigate life’s struggles in a way that’s empowering drawing from your true strengths. Cultivating a place of growth and self discovery to enable a more positive outlook to life is my overall mission. During my time in the military, I realized my gift was to help people with their mental health instead of physically protecting them. My areas of specialty are anxiety, depression, grief, transitional periods, substance use, and trauma.
View
Photo of Kristen Cairns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Kristen Cairns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
I specialize in working with women with eating disorders, pregnancy and postpartum challenges, and trauma (of all kinds). I use a collaborative counseling approach and highly value the therapist-client relationship. As a therapist, I am committed to establishing a safe place for you to process current struggles, identify and explore the deeper “root issues,” and improve coping and daily functioning.
I specialize in working with women with eating disorders, pregnancy and postpartum challenges, and trauma (of all kinds). I use a collaborative counseling approach and highly value the therapist-client relationship. As a therapist, I am committed to establishing a safe place for you to process current struggles, identify and explore the deeper “root issues,” and improve coping and daily functioning.
(972) 441-7718 View (972) 441-7718
Photo of Monica Schocken, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Monica Schocken
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
Clients come to counseling for problems they can't deal with, and leave with problems they can deal with.
Clients come to counseling for problems they can't deal with, and leave with problems they can deal with.
(972) 509-2611 x4 View (972) 509-2611 x4
Photo of Sydney F, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sydney F
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I will meet you where you are at. I will never pressure you to talk about something you are not comfortable with talking about. Building rapport takes times and I am willing to work through that until my clients feel safe and trust me. My ideal client is one who wants to work on herself/himself and put in that work. I am willing to work on any issues that arise, and if I do not feel like I am the best option for you, then I will let you know. I am extremely transparent and will be honest with my clients if I think they would benefit more from a different type of therapy. Reach out and see if we are a good fit!
I will meet you where you are at. I will never pressure you to talk about something you are not comfortable with talking about. Building rapport takes times and I am willing to work through that until my clients feel safe and trust me. My ideal client is one who wants to work on herself/himself and put in that work. I am willing to work on any issues that arise, and if I do not feel like I am the best option for you, then I will let you know. I am extremely transparent and will be honest with my clients if I think they would benefit more from a different type of therapy. Reach out and see if we are a good fit!
(469) 778-3419 View (469) 778-3419
Photo of Tasha Willens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Tasha Willens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I believe in counseling and the therapeutic relationship. I recognize it as a very personal process and will do my best to assist you. Sometimes in life we need a little extra help, and that’s okay. Counseling can act as a resource to help manage the commotion in our lives. I approach my clients through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because it is evidence-based, and it helps challenge the patterns and cognitive distortions that have been established over time. I also use a person-centered approach to meet the client’s needs.
I believe in counseling and the therapeutic relationship. I recognize it as a very personal process and will do my best to assist you. Sometimes in life we need a little extra help, and that’s okay. Counseling can act as a resource to help manage the commotion in our lives. I approach my clients through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because it is evidence-based, and it helps challenge the patterns and cognitive distortions that have been established over time. I also use a person-centered approach to meet the client’s needs.
(972) 596-7229 View (972) 596-7229
Photo of Ja'kesha Bowens, LPC Associate in Plano, TX
Ja'kesha Bowens
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
Ja'Kesha Bowens is a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA) supervised by Karla Sweet MS, NCC, LPC-S. She is also a nationally certified and licensed chemical dependency counselor intern (CDCI). Driven by compassion and a commitment to culturally sensitive therapy, Ja'Kesha's mission is to empower the BIPOC community, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Her approach centers on creating a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identities, navigate challenges, and embrace their authentic selves.
Ja'Kesha Bowens is a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA) supervised by Karla Sweet MS, NCC, LPC-S. She is also a nationally certified and licensed chemical dependency counselor intern (CDCI). Driven by compassion and a commitment to culturally sensitive therapy, Ja'Kesha's mission is to empower the BIPOC community, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Her approach centers on creating a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identities, navigate challenges, and embrace their authentic selves.
(469) 202-4651 View (469) 202-4651

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plano, TX

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Plano, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Plano, TX see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plano?

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.