Therapists in Anchorage, AK
Thriving Within, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CDC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99504 (Online Only)
No insurance or high deductible? Contact us for options. Feeling stuck? Paralyzed? Unsure what to do or where to go next? That everything is an effort? Thriving Within, LLC is available for counseling and mental health services. Thriving comes from an individualized approach centered on you and your strengths. Using a client centered, healing-centered-engagement process, we connect people to their internal and external resources. We have a variety of services to meet your needs. Underinsured or no insurance? We have options to develop a plan for services with you.
No insurance or high deductible? Contact us for options. Feeling stuck? Paralyzed? Unsure what to do or where to go next? That everything is an effort? Thriving Within, LLC is available for counseling and mental health services. Thriving comes from an individualized approach centered on you and your strengths. Using a client centered, healing-centered-engagement process, we connect people to their internal and external resources. We have a variety of services to meet your needs. Underinsured or no insurance? We have options to develop a plan for services with you.
Shawna Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
Being human is difficult. But you don't have to do it alone. I am here to offer support as a "fellow traveler" in life and therapy. None of us thrive in isolation. I view therapy, in part, as helping people make sense of being human. I aim to provide a safe space so clients can show up authentically and feel seen, heard, and understood along the way.
Being human is difficult. But you don't have to do it alone. I am here to offer support as a "fellow traveler" in life and therapy. None of us thrive in isolation. I view therapy, in part, as helping people make sense of being human. I aim to provide a safe space so clients can show up authentically and feel seen, heard, and understood along the way.
Audra York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Waitlist for new clients
www.audrayorktherapy.com, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) specializing in the areas of trauma (sexual abuse, physical abuse, child maltreatment), anxiety, depression, self-esteem & identity, LGBTQ+, and perinatal mental health. I see children ages 3 & up, teens, adults, and families. I use evidence-based, trauma-informed therapy: I am 1 of the 4 nationally certified TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) counselor in Alaska, am a certified EMDR provider, Filial Play therapist, Expressive Arts Therapy certified, PSI certified, and Yoga teacher.
www.audrayorktherapy.com, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) specializing in the areas of trauma (sexual abuse, physical abuse, child maltreatment), anxiety, depression, self-esteem & identity, LGBTQ+, and perinatal mental health. I see children ages 3 & up, teens, adults, and families. I use evidence-based, trauma-informed therapy: I am 1 of the 4 nationally certified TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) counselor in Alaska, am a certified EMDR provider, Filial Play therapist, Expressive Arts Therapy certified, PSI certified, and Yoga teacher.
Headlight / Anchorage
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507
Headlight is proud to offer Anchorage, AK a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Anchorage, AK a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Sarah Wilcox - Help With Life Changes And Relationships
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
If it was easy to change, find balance, and experience peace, you would have already done it. I walk with teens, adults, and couples through the intricate tapestry of their lives, helping with adjustment to change, and breaking loose long-standing patterns. I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, are prenatal and postpartum, healthcare workers, people undergoing the transition into adulthood, a faith transition, or those looking for improvement in their relationships. I can support you in successfully stepping into the next part of your life.
If it was easy to change, find balance, and experience peace, you would have already done it. I walk with teens, adults, and couples through the intricate tapestry of their lives, helping with adjustment to change, and breaking loose long-standing patterns. I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, are prenatal and postpartum, healthcare workers, people undergoing the transition into adulthood, a faith transition, or those looking for improvement in their relationships. I can support you in successfully stepping into the next part of your life.
Kevin Tarlow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99507 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Many people seek therapy when they feel stuck with a mental health problem, such as depression, anxiety, unwanted relationship patterns, or difficulty recovering from a painful experience. Others may be struggling to cope with external sources of stress, like discrimination, abuse, or trauma. As a Licensed Psychologist, I help patients get unstuck by providing therapy that is supportive, confidential, and challenging. By helping you step out of your comfort zone, we can find new ways of coping with the problems you are struggling with or avoiding.
Are you feeling stuck? Many people seek therapy when they feel stuck with a mental health problem, such as depression, anxiety, unwanted relationship patterns, or difficulty recovering from a painful experience. Others may be struggling to cope with external sources of stress, like discrimination, abuse, or trauma. As a Licensed Psychologist, I help patients get unstuck by providing therapy that is supportive, confidential, and challenging. By helping you step out of your comfort zone, we can find new ways of coping with the problems you are struggling with or avoiding.
Sevilla I. Love, LCSW, Grief and Loss Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
I specialize in grief and loss and unbiasedly see people from all backgrounds all over Alaska. Perhaps a loved one died and your world's forever changed. Are you a Helping or High-risk-career professional who's witnessed too much? Maybe you spiritually struggle with feeling cheated when you got handed a life you didn't ask or plan for. The loss is recent, the pain is acute and you can't afford to fold! Your loss happened long ago and you're finally ready to explore it's effects on your life.
I specialize in grief and loss and unbiasedly see people from all backgrounds all over Alaska. Perhaps a loved one died and your world's forever changed. Are you a Helping or High-risk-career professional who's witnessed too much? Maybe you spiritually struggle with feeling cheated when you got handed a life you didn't ask or plan for. The loss is recent, the pain is acute and you can't afford to fold! Your loss happened long ago and you're finally ready to explore it's effects on your life.
Allen Blair
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
As the former clinical director of a community behavioral health in Anchorage, I have experience providing therapy to a range of ages including: children, youth, families and adults experiencing a variety of challenges. I work with youth who experience disruptive behaviors, acting out, and substance use. I provide care to individuals who have experienced trauma/ abuse, mood disorders, and the autism spectrum. I also provide forensic psychological evaluations for the court, and neuropsychological assessments illuminating an individuals treatment needs.
As the former clinical director of a community behavioral health in Anchorage, I have experience providing therapy to a range of ages including: children, youth, families and adults experiencing a variety of challenges. I work with youth who experience disruptive behaviors, acting out, and substance use. I provide care to individuals who have experienced trauma/ abuse, mood disorders, and the autism spectrum. I also provide forensic psychological evaluations for the court, and neuropsychological assessments illuminating an individuals treatment needs.
Macrina Dunaway
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99507 (Online Only)
You've always believed that worrying was a choice. If you were just motivated enough you could stop yourself from spiraling. Sadness is a mindset. You could push through the shadows and darkness if you would just try a little harder. But now it's like these emotions have taken you hostage and are creeping into every part of your life. The strategies that you relied on to keep yourself in check aren't working like they used to. You feel lost without a clear way forward. The shame of allowing yourself to go unchecked is physically and emotionally exhausting. It's a daily game of trying to act ok and hold it together. It's crushing.
You've always believed that worrying was a choice. If you were just motivated enough you could stop yourself from spiraling. Sadness is a mindset. You could push through the shadows and darkness if you would just try a little harder. But now it's like these emotions have taken you hostage and are creeping into every part of your life. The strategies that you relied on to keep yourself in check aren't working like they used to. You feel lost without a clear way forward. The shame of allowing yourself to go unchecked is physically and emotionally exhausting. It's a daily game of trying to act ok and hold it together. It's crushing.
Love and Liberation Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507 (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples 18 years and older experiencing challenges around sexuality, gender identity or gender roles, and within their relationships. I counsel from a framework of anti-oppression and intersectional feminism and I support people of all genders and sexual orientations. I am also happy to work with people in non-conforming relationships such as open relationships, swinging, and who are polyamorous. In addition, I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and who are acknowledging their trauma. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Alaska.
I work with individuals and couples 18 years and older experiencing challenges around sexuality, gender identity or gender roles, and within their relationships. I counsel from a framework of anti-oppression and intersectional feminism and I support people of all genders and sexual orientations. I am also happy to work with people in non-conforming relationships such as open relationships, swinging, and who are polyamorous. In addition, I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and who are acknowledging their trauma. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Alaska.
Glen Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
Waitlist for new clients
I try to meet clients where there are at developmentally. We build on your strengths towards a better quality of life.
I work well with children, adolescents, and their families; especially teenagers. Many of the young people I have seen have had behavioral difficulties. I also see adults with both short and long term difficulties such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictive behaviors.
I try to meet clients where there are at developmentally. We build on your strengths towards a better quality of life.
I work well with children, adolescents, and their families; especially teenagers. Many of the young people I have seen have had behavioral difficulties. I also see adults with both short and long term difficulties such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictive behaviors.
15 Second Videos
Sevilla I. Love, LCSW, Grief and Loss Specialist
Love and Liberation Therapy, LLC
Amanda Kookesh - White Wave Counseling
Olya Clem
Dannon O Mims
Peter Tallman- Snowbridge Wellness
Jodie Menish
Dustin Kerrone
Ebony V McClain
Kristen McFee
Lindsey Russell
Christina Wilson, Expressive Art Therapist
Winnie Bien Aime
Better Insight Solutions - Alexander Pendrey
Aries M McGinnis
Jen Gessert-White Wave Counseling, LLC
Marne Eggleston
Sarah Blechman
Justin Dobrenz
Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc.
Refocus Counseling - Marriage
Cecilie Cody
Lindsey Russell
Jennie Schroll
Kirsten Strolle
Anika K Mullen
Arise Counseling, LLC
Bethany Burgess
Garrick Fuller
See As Me (SAM) Counseling
Experiential Play Therapy @Refocus Counseling
Anchor Life Clinic
Sara Furcini
Riley Hall
Erika McGough
Brandon Johnson
Chantal Cohen Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
I am a LMFT Supervisor & a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I work with children (1 year old up), teens, families, combatants, first responders, victims of violent crimes, & others. I treat preverbal or traumatic attachment (kids/teens), complex trauma, anxiety, behavioral issues and other childhood needs. Learning to see from your child's perspective helps caregiver(s) to understand their child/ren and family. My goals are to collaborate with you & your family to restore balance, improve communication, provide neuro-divergent psychoeducation, promote more secure attachments and develop competency.
I am a LMFT Supervisor & a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I work with children (1 year old up), teens, families, combatants, first responders, victims of violent crimes, & others. I treat preverbal or traumatic attachment (kids/teens), complex trauma, anxiety, behavioral issues and other childhood needs. Learning to see from your child's perspective helps caregiver(s) to understand their child/ren and family. My goals are to collaborate with you & your family to restore balance, improve communication, provide neuro-divergent psychoeducation, promote more secure attachments and develop competency.
L Renée Leftwich-Render
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Renee Leftwich-Render, I am a mental health therapist who works with individuals and couples who want to work through the challenges of life to discover their authentic selves. I counsel those battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem and image issues, post-traumatic stress, grief, women’s issues, and multicultural challenges. Life can throw you for a loop, can't it?! Can you remember a time in your life when you were truly content and happy? It was like everything was aligning in your world then life.
Hi, I am Renee Leftwich-Render, I am a mental health therapist who works with individuals and couples who want to work through the challenges of life to discover their authentic selves. I counsel those battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem and image issues, post-traumatic stress, grief, women’s issues, and multicultural challenges. Life can throw you for a loop, can't it?! Can you remember a time in your life when you were truly content and happy? It was like everything was aligning in your world then life.
Samantha Funk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507 (Online Only)
The nature in Alaska is next to none, but the isolation and often inclement weather can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and severe anxiety. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing life difficulties, relationship struggles, and emotional challenges, particularly those who have experienced domestic violence and/or sexual assault. I have extensive experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, including the lived experience that helps me hold a space where you can feel seen and understood.
The nature in Alaska is next to none, but the isolation and often inclement weather can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and severe anxiety. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing life difficulties, relationship struggles, and emotional challenges, particularly those who have experienced domestic violence and/or sexual assault. I have extensive experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, including the lived experience that helps me hold a space where you can feel seen and understood.
Karuna Counseling, LLC Leslee Rogers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or worn out? Navigating a significant life change or chronic illness? Desiring a sense of peace in your life or in search of purpose and self-discovery? Whether you're contending with life challenges or want to grow towards a more authentic life, my goal is to help you on your unique journey.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or worn out? Navigating a significant life change or chronic illness? Desiring a sense of peace in your life or in search of purpose and self-discovery? Whether you're contending with life challenges or want to grow towards a more authentic life, my goal is to help you on your unique journey.
Megan Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Megan’s passion is guiding individuals toward transformation, from mere survival to true thriving. She believes that each person’s journey is unique; their path to healing and change must be tailored to suit their distinct experiences. Her training encompasses therapeutic approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, Cognitive Analytic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. She specializes in working with people struggling with suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma, and chemical dependency. She welcomes families, children five and older, individual adults and elders, couples.
Megan’s passion is guiding individuals toward transformation, from mere survival to true thriving. She believes that each person’s journey is unique; their path to healing and change must be tailored to suit their distinct experiences. Her training encompasses therapeutic approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, Cognitive Analytic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. She specializes in working with people struggling with suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma, and chemical dependency. She welcomes families, children five and older, individual adults and elders, couples.
Drew Miller LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99504 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I’m here to help you find freedom, peace and ease within the changes of your life. To help you understand the processes of your mind and how to use the wisdom of experiencing that understanding to heal. I have been working in the field of counseling since 2000 having received my Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Lewis and Clark College. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon and Alaska and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington. I offer online individual counseling to adults and adolescents in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.
I’m here to help you find freedom, peace and ease within the changes of your life. To help you understand the processes of your mind and how to use the wisdom of experiencing that understanding to heal. I have been working in the field of counseling since 2000 having received my Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Lewis and Clark College. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon and Alaska and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington. I offer online individual counseling to adults and adolescents in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.
Megan Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
By taking the step to initiate therapy, you are already beginning the process of change. At times, we feel lost or lack of confidence to navigate through critical and life-changing circumstances. Although, we have many strengths and skills, we have difficulty accessing these during periods of family or relationship crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma. As a clinician, I will use a mindful approach to facilitate the process of helping you reconnect with your strengths and discover skills, strategies and resources toward a healthier life.
By taking the step to initiate therapy, you are already beginning the process of change. At times, we feel lost or lack of confidence to navigate through critical and life-changing circumstances. Although, we have many strengths and skills, we have difficulty accessing these during periods of family or relationship crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma. As a clinician, I will use a mindful approach to facilitate the process of helping you reconnect with your strengths and discover skills, strategies and resources toward a healthier life.
Helen Woods
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99522 (Online Only)
Hello! I work with individuals and couples making their way through tough situations. My goal is to support your most authentic well-being; helping you reclaim your essential self by examining beliefs that can lock in difficult relationship dynamics and constrain your deepest longings, guiding the process of peacefully resolving inner conflict you may experience, and supporting your personal growth through challenging times.
Hello! I work with individuals and couples making their way through tough situations. My goal is to support your most authentic well-being; helping you reclaim your essential self by examining beliefs that can lock in difficult relationship dynamics and constrain your deepest longings, guiding the process of peacefully resolving inner conflict you may experience, and supporting your personal growth through challenging times.
Richard F. Lazur, PsyD
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501 (Online Only)
Anxious during these uncertain times, try some simple tips to take back your life. Breathe. Sit upright, feet flat on the floor, inhale to a count of 4, exhale to a count of 4, repeat for a couple minutes. Write down all that worries you. Pick the top 3. Write out possible solutions, even bad ones. Identify the most practical and how you would do it. Get negative thoughts out of your head. Manage your anger. Breathe. Identify what’s frustrating. What you can do about it? Some things just have to run their own course. Move around. Do something different. Go into another room, do something else.
Anxious during these uncertain times, try some simple tips to take back your life. Breathe. Sit upright, feet flat on the floor, inhale to a count of 4, exhale to a count of 4, repeat for a couple minutes. Write down all that worries you. Pick the top 3. Write out possible solutions, even bad ones. Identify the most practical and how you would do it. Get negative thoughts out of your head. Manage your anger. Breathe. Identify what’s frustrating. What you can do about it? Some things just have to run their own course. Move around. Do something different. Go into another room, do something else.
See more therapy options for Anchorage
Nearby Searches for Anchorage
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Anchorage, AK
300+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Anchorage, AK who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Relationship Issues |
68% | Self Esteem |
66% | Stress |
63% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
65% | Aetna |
54% | Premera |
How Therapists in Anchorage, AK see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Anchorage?
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.