Therapists in San Mateo, CA
John Bradshaw
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist. The problems that I am trained to help are Children’s School and Learning Problems, ADHD in adults and children, Family, Marital, Divorce and Custody Problems, Depression, Anxiety and OCD. The sessions are problem focused, with emphasis on addressing the issues that continue to undermine a person’s ability to achieve happiness at home, work, social relationships and with one self.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist. The problems that I am trained to help are Children’s School and Learning Problems, ADHD in adults and children, Family, Marital, Divorce and Custody Problems, Depression, Anxiety and OCD. The sessions are problem focused, with emphasis on addressing the issues that continue to undermine a person’s ability to achieve happiness at home, work, social relationships and with one self.
Patrick Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Experiencing worry, anxiety or depression? Struggling with Imposture syndrome, perfectionism or procrastination at work or in your personal life? I know seeking therapy can be frustrating and anxiety provoking. Therapy can help you to get unstuck and gain clarity, confidence, reduce anxiety, feel happier, develop deeper connections with friends and family, gain perspective about life's problems and disappointments, heal past wounds, establish a healthy feeling of hope and "be yourself" again.
Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Experiencing worry, anxiety or depression? Struggling with Imposture syndrome, perfectionism or procrastination at work or in your personal life? I know seeking therapy can be frustrating and anxiety provoking. Therapy can help you to get unstuck and gain clarity, confidence, reduce anxiety, feel happier, develop deeper connections with friends and family, gain perspective about life's problems and disappointments, heal past wounds, establish a healthy feeling of hope and "be yourself" again.
Marybeth Viglione
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
Do you find yourself repeating unhealthy patterns? Or overwhelmed or immobilized by fears, despair, or changes beyond your control? excessively worried, irritable or on edge? spiraling downwards? feeling helpless and alone? You may have symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress. They can impact your overall quality of life and your day-to-day functioning. They can also lead to misunderstandings in your relationships with loved ones at home, friends, or co-workers on the job. Fortunately, through psychotherapy, you can regain a sense of personal direction over your life, find new solutions, and feel good about your decisions.
Do you find yourself repeating unhealthy patterns? Or overwhelmed or immobilized by fears, despair, or changes beyond your control? excessively worried, irritable or on edge? spiraling downwards? feeling helpless and alone? You may have symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress. They can impact your overall quality of life and your day-to-day functioning. They can also lead to misunderstandings in your relationships with loved ones at home, friends, or co-workers on the job. Fortunately, through psychotherapy, you can regain a sense of personal direction over your life, find new solutions, and feel good about your decisions.
Scott Spivack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
My areas of focus are working with adults on with work related stress, anxiety, depression, self–esteem, attachment, relationships, interpersonal communication, and life transitions. I work with adults of all ages and a variety of backgrounds. One population I work a lot with are those having jobs in the technology sector (i.e. Silicon Valley), that can be stressful and demanding. We can work towards learning skills like: effective communications with coworkers, regulating emotions when work loads feel overwhelming, and having work/life balance; as well as other topics such as social, personal, relationships and mental wellness.
My areas of focus are working with adults on with work related stress, anxiety, depression, self–esteem, attachment, relationships, interpersonal communication, and life transitions. I work with adults of all ages and a variety of backgrounds. One population I work a lot with are those having jobs in the technology sector (i.e. Silicon Valley), that can be stressful and demanding. We can work towards learning skills like: effective communications with coworkers, regulating emotions when work loads feel overwhelming, and having work/life balance; as well as other topics such as social, personal, relationships and mental wellness.
Marybeth Lorence
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
Not accepting new clients
You want to feel good about your life. You have hope that your frustrations, fears, and emotional pain can be alleviated, and that life does not have to be a constant struggle. Hope that your choices lead to comfort within your self and peace within your relationships. Now you’ve taken the first step on a journey toward change and self-discovery. But you don’t have to travel alone. A warm, compassionate, interested therapist can make the journey less daunting. You have found the strength and courage to ask for help. Let's get started.
You want to feel good about your life. You have hope that your frustrations, fears, and emotional pain can be alleviated, and that life does not have to be a constant struggle. Hope that your choices lead to comfort within your self and peace within your relationships. Now you’ve taken the first step on a journey toward change and self-discovery. But you don’t have to travel alone. A warm, compassionate, interested therapist can make the journey less daunting. You have found the strength and courage to ask for help. Let's get started.
Catherine de Sauvage
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402
Do you struggle with intimacy, sexual desire or trauma ? Let me help you reconnect with your core desire in a simple way. Sexuality can be a wonderful topic to explore. I will create a safe environment where you are the leader of your own journey, and where you are invited to renegotiate sexual challenges, stress and trauma at your own pace. I have a holistic approach: exploring body, heart, mind & spirituality. Together, we can find the most effective way to regain your full potential in intimacy and relationships. I am a Certified sex therapist, this means I studied an extra 3 years to better support you.
Do you struggle with intimacy, sexual desire or trauma ? Let me help you reconnect with your core desire in a simple way. Sexuality can be a wonderful topic to explore. I will create a safe environment where you are the leader of your own journey, and where you are invited to renegotiate sexual challenges, stress and trauma at your own pace. I have a holistic approach: exploring body, heart, mind & spirituality. Together, we can find the most effective way to regain your full potential in intimacy and relationships. I am a Certified sex therapist, this means I studied an extra 3 years to better support you.
Tim Baima Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401
I specialize in working with families, couples, and children & adolescents. I strive to form relationships with my clients built upon trust, authenticity and collaboration. Working together we are able to open and expand possibilities to heal from pain, transform destructive cycles, and grow towards richer, more satisfying lives and relationships. Relationships often get stuck because we are unaware of ways we have hurt others and been hurt ourselves. Sometimes our best efforts to make things better seem to exacerbate the problem. I work to raise insight, facilitate healing, and open possibilities to connect in more satisfying ways.
I specialize in working with families, couples, and children & adolescents. I strive to form relationships with my clients built upon trust, authenticity and collaboration. Working together we are able to open and expand possibilities to heal from pain, transform destructive cycles, and grow towards richer, more satisfying lives and relationships. Relationships often get stuck because we are unaware of ways we have hurt others and been hurt ourselves. Sometimes our best efforts to make things better seem to exacerbate the problem. I work to raise insight, facilitate healing, and open possibilities to connect in more satisfying ways.
Dr. Peter Gleiberman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
Through my experience I have developed a therapeutic approach rooted in empathy, collaboration, and proactive skill development. My diverse professional background informs my compassionate approach to care. I value understanding clients' experiences and perspectives, working together we can address your mental health concerns, and empowering you with practical skills to cope with challenges and promote well-being. I am passionate about working with adolescents navigating the stressors of school and their teenage years, as well as helping high-achieving adults cope.
Through my experience I have developed a therapeutic approach rooted in empathy, collaboration, and proactive skill development. My diverse professional background informs my compassionate approach to care. I value understanding clients' experiences and perspectives, working together we can address your mental health concerns, and empowering you with practical skills to cope with challenges and promote well-being. I am passionate about working with adolescents navigating the stressors of school and their teenage years, as well as helping high-achieving adults cope.
Minjun Wang
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402
As a licensed therapist in San Francisco Bay Area, I have 10+ years of experience helping professional women with chronic anxiety heal and transform their relationships with significant others & themselves. Helping females in modern society heal from the past, boost self-confidence & achieve healthy relationships is what I do best. If any of the following ever happened to you, chances are you might have suffered from troubled relationship(s): Confused about what healthy relationships look like; feeling insecure; losing sense of self; putting others before yourself and your self-care sucks; worried sick about what others think of you
As a licensed therapist in San Francisco Bay Area, I have 10+ years of experience helping professional women with chronic anxiety heal and transform their relationships with significant others & themselves. Helping females in modern society heal from the past, boost self-confidence & achieve healthy relationships is what I do best. If any of the following ever happened to you, chances are you might have suffered from troubled relationship(s): Confused about what healthy relationships look like; feeling insecure; losing sense of self; putting others before yourself and your self-care sucks; worried sick about what others think of you
Amy Gervasi Mayo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
I provide a safe and supportive environment to help clients explore new approaches to ongoing life challenges. My optimistic and caring style support self growth and empowerment. Part of my role as a therapist is to help my clients establish realistic goals that bring about positive change. I have been working with teens and adults for over 20 years. I have worked in local high schools and the County of San Mateo with both teens and adults. Some techniques I use suggest that our thoughts affect how we behave. Therefore, if we work on more positive self talk, we may notice changes in our overall mood and behavior.
I provide a safe and supportive environment to help clients explore new approaches to ongoing life challenges. My optimistic and caring style support self growth and empowerment. Part of my role as a therapist is to help my clients establish realistic goals that bring about positive change. I have been working with teens and adults for over 20 years. I have worked in local high schools and the County of San Mateo with both teens and adults. Some techniques I use suggest that our thoughts affect how we behave. Therefore, if we work on more positive self talk, we may notice changes in our overall mood and behavior.
Amanda Tan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403
Are you going through changes in your life situation right now? Are you confused about who you are or who you're becoming? I've been there! Moving to a different country, becoming a parent, starting a new career, or facing an illness can be overwhelming and make you question yourself. Work with me to rediscover your values and find the guiding compass to your life.
Are you going through changes in your life situation right now? Are you confused about who you are or who you're becoming? I've been there! Moving to a different country, becoming a parent, starting a new career, or facing an illness can be overwhelming and make you question yourself. Work with me to rediscover your values and find the guiding compass to your life.
15 Second Videos
Minjun Wang
'Mind Your Stories & Live Well'
Bill Bell
Rebekah Kao
Yael Gonicman
Eunice Song
Sunny Choi
Garine Kevranian
Ryan Perisho
Michael Immerman
Peggy Farrell
Dora Dui Chen
Meru Health
Sunny Choi
Tracy De Soto MFT
Amanda Nolan
Sarah Proemsey
David Barry
Amy F Trusso
Ranjan Patel
Brenda Joe-Matsuo
Sabina Harris, MFT
Joseph Choy
Lucy Klein
Amy Backos
Melanie Goetz
April Vogensen
Mary Ann Dawkins-Padigela
Sye Gratz
Reika D Faust
Brent Henrikson
Sarah Yoell
Annie Hsueh
Jeffrey Ly I Porn Addiction Relationship
Alina Steinberg Baugh
Lea Reyes | Relationships
Ricardo Patrick Peña
Danielle Horne
Jorge A Meza
Ann Rivello
Karen A Joaquin
Ashley Ah Hyun Lee
Jennifer Baker
Kate Moore Meyers
Ross Nelson
Lorie J. Muellenbach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I work with children, teens and young adults who come for school problems, behavioral problems or mood disturbances including anxiety. Therapy can be helpful for dealing with these issues. When children aren't meeting expectations, they often act out their frustration in the form of tantrums, aggression and defiance. Sometimes my child clients struggle to regulate their emotions and their impulses or have intrusive thoughts and obsessive behaviors. I can be useful to parents want to understand their children better and get help with these issues.
I work with children, teens and young adults who come for school problems, behavioral problems or mood disturbances including anxiety. Therapy can be helpful for dealing with these issues. When children aren't meeting expectations, they often act out their frustration in the form of tantrums, aggression and defiance. Sometimes my child clients struggle to regulate their emotions and their impulses or have intrusive thoughts and obsessive behaviors. I can be useful to parents want to understand their children better and get help with these issues.
Miriam Lima
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Feeling lonely, lost, or stuck? Are you experiencing trauma/PTSD symptoms? Or having interpersonal relationship difficulties? There is hope for you!
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Feeling lonely, lost, or stuck? Are you experiencing trauma/PTSD symptoms? Or having interpersonal relationship difficulties? There is hope for you!
Marissa Nasca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
My philosophy in working with youth and adults is to share cognitive and mindfulness techniques, in a supportive setting, to help my clients make positive changes in their thoughts and actions. Utilizing personal accountability, combined with humor and lightness, I aim to help clients cultivate compassion for themselves, so they may be willing to experiment with new tools. I strive to help clients come back into their bodies, more effectively process their feelings, and move decisively toward wellness. My theory is to be flexible and sensitive in my approach while moving clients toward a more confident, realized version of themselves.
My philosophy in working with youth and adults is to share cognitive and mindfulness techniques, in a supportive setting, to help my clients make positive changes in their thoughts and actions. Utilizing personal accountability, combined with humor and lightness, I aim to help clients cultivate compassion for themselves, so they may be willing to experiment with new tools. I strive to help clients come back into their bodies, more effectively process their feelings, and move decisively toward wellness. My theory is to be flexible and sensitive in my approach while moving clients toward a more confident, realized version of themselves.
Diana Moore (Formerly Diana To)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404
I found my calling to become a psychotherapist out of a desire to help people live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them resolve the impact of abuse and trauma, as well as problems of depression, anxiety, anger, grief, couples' discord, family conflicts, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients who feel lost about their life directions with career exploration and identity development. As a Christian, I also love integrating spirituality with psychological well-being with clients for whom spirituality is relevant.
I found my calling to become a psychotherapist out of a desire to help people live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them resolve the impact of abuse and trauma, as well as problems of depression, anxiety, anger, grief, couples' discord, family conflicts, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients who feel lost about their life directions with career exploration and identity development. As a Christian, I also love integrating spirituality with psychological well-being with clients for whom spirituality is relevant.
Sabrina Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403
My name is Sabrina Taylor, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing for over 17 years serving adults with various challenges. With your permission, I would like to be a part of your healing process through acceptance and change-oriented strategies. Focusing on the client's strengths and solution-focused approaches, I strive to help find a unique plan to create balance and become the best version of yourself. Although we do not always cause our own problems, we can choose to manage the challenges life brings. My approach to therapy is client-centered, solution-focused, and strength-based.
My name is Sabrina Taylor, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing for over 17 years serving adults with various challenges. With your permission, I would like to be a part of your healing process through acceptance and change-oriented strategies. Focusing on the client's strengths and solution-focused approaches, I strive to help find a unique plan to create balance and become the best version of yourself. Although we do not always cause our own problems, we can choose to manage the challenges life brings. My approach to therapy is client-centered, solution-focused, and strength-based.
Daniela Portillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Daniela Portillo and I am a Bilingual Licensed MFT with a Master’s in Counseling and a concentration in Expressive Arts Therapy. I work with a diverse population including children with neurotypical and neurodiverse backgrounds, adolescents, adults, and families.
Hello, my name is Daniela Portillo and I am a Bilingual Licensed MFT with a Master’s in Counseling and a concentration in Expressive Arts Therapy. I work with a diverse population including children with neurotypical and neurodiverse backgrounds, adolescents, adults, and families.
Michele Kirk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I am a Marriage & Family Therapist. I help teens and adults manage daily stressors, life transitions, family/ peer conflict & divorce. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, as well as relationship, parenting and teenage behavior issues. I provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your unique challenges. My style is active, collaborative, and compassionate. My approach is client-centered and eclectic. This means that I incorporate various methods and techniques that fit with your personal needs and style, and we work together to create an individualized plan to reach your goals.
I am a Marriage & Family Therapist. I help teens and adults manage daily stressors, life transitions, family/ peer conflict & divorce. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, grief/ loss, as well as relationship, parenting and teenage behavior issues. I provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your unique challenges. My style is active, collaborative, and compassionate. My approach is client-centered and eclectic. This means that I incorporate various methods and techniques that fit with your personal needs and style, and we work together to create an individualized plan to reach your goals.
Nicole Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401 (Online Only)
Looking for a new way to experience therapy via a transformative conversation? Sometimes talking can feel like an interrogation, here I offer us conversations to move through and process feelings of depression, anxiety, complex grief and trauma, relationship conflict, or day to day life stressors that can feel overwhelming at times. It is through these conversations that we can identify those areas that have left you feeling stuck or lacking motivation that have held you back from living a life that you see for yourself.
Looking for a new way to experience therapy via a transformative conversation? Sometimes talking can feel like an interrogation, here I offer us conversations to move through and process feelings of depression, anxiety, complex grief and trauma, relationship conflict, or day to day life stressors that can feel overwhelming at times. It is through these conversations that we can identify those areas that have left you feeling stuck or lacking motivation that have held you back from living a life that you see for yourself.
Helen Citrin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with individuals and couples. My clients may be shy and are searching for their voice, or have experienced a lot but are still in the early stages of their life. I appreciate working with those who are open to thinking and playing freely during our sessions, remaining curious, and asking many questions. My clients inquire about their identities, engage in self-exploration, and reflect on their past and present. My clients may have experienced trauma or struggle with anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and individuals of all ages, including the aging population, couples, and families.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples. My clients may be shy and are searching for their voice, or have experienced a lot but are still in the early stages of their life. I appreciate working with those who are open to thinking and playing freely during our sessions, remaining curious, and asking many questions. My clients inquire about their identities, engage in self-exploration, and reflect on their past and present. My clients may have experienced trauma or struggle with anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and individuals of all ages, including the aging population, couples, and families.
See more therapy options for San Mateo
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Mateo, CA
500+
Average cost per session
$195
Therapists in San Mateo, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Stress |
64% | Grief |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
60% | Aetna |
53% | Cigna and Evernorth |
46% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Mateo, CA 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 San Mateo?
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
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.
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.
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.