Therapists in Barrington, IL

Photo of Natalie Sum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Natalie Sum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I have daytime and evening hours and also offer telehealth appointments. I am passionate about guiding clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, self-esteem, complicated grief, and family of origin issues toward healing and freedom. I enjoy teaching individuals how to recognize and release themselves from repeating destructive coping patterns in their current relationships.
I have daytime and evening hours and also offer telehealth appointments. I am passionate about guiding clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, self-esteem, complicated grief, and family of origin issues toward healing and freedom. I enjoy teaching individuals how to recognize and release themselves from repeating destructive coping patterns in their current relationships.
(224) 864-9437 View (224) 864-9437
Photo of Sharice Ellenwood, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Sharice Ellenwood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
To me, there is no ideal client. I am comfortable working with clients that have a wide variety of issues, needs, and goals. I typically work with clients between the ages 13-45 yrs old that have come in with all unique struggles. I would prefer to work with clients that are open minded and willing to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to allow both of us to guide each other towards your goals.
To me, there is no ideal client. I am comfortable working with clients that have a wide variety of issues, needs, and goals. I typically work with clients between the ages 13-45 yrs old that have come in with all unique struggles. I would prefer to work with clients that are open minded and willing to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to allow both of us to guide each other towards your goals.
(847) 613-1956 x11 View (847) 613-1956 x11
Photo of Nancy E Dolan, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Nancy E Dolan
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I work with adults who are struggling with depression and change of life issues (i.e., job loss, divorce, illness), and in particular those who are experiencing grief and loss. I have a great deal of experience working with the aging adult population and the issues that accompany this phase of life. I believe that most issues have an associated spiritual component to them, and if the client wishes to incorporate spirituality into the therapeutic work, I am comfortable doing so. The short term goal of therapy is symptom reduction, while the long-term goal is transformation.
I work with adults who are struggling with depression and change of life issues (i.e., job loss, divorce, illness), and in particular those who are experiencing grief and loss. I have a great deal of experience working with the aging adult population and the issues that accompany this phase of life. I believe that most issues have an associated spiritual component to them, and if the client wishes to incorporate spirituality into the therapeutic work, I am comfortable doing so. The short term goal of therapy is symptom reduction, while the long-term goal is transformation.
(847) 278-2080 View (847) 278-2080
Photo of Kids Spot Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Kids Spot Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Are you a frustrated parent struggling to find answers and strategies that work? Is your child worried and nervous, unable to relax or have fun? Does your heart break as you watch your child hurting and feeling hopeless to help? You are not alone! At least 17% of children in the US struggle with emotional difficulties. We can help you understand what is happening with your child and choose strategies that support your child through their journey to happiness and health. I offer individual sessions, play therapy, sand tray therapy, parent consultations, coaching, and family therapy sessions to help your child be their best self.
Are you a frustrated parent struggling to find answers and strategies that work? Is your child worried and nervous, unable to relax or have fun? Does your heart break as you watch your child hurting and feeling hopeless to help? You are not alone! At least 17% of children in the US struggle with emotional difficulties. We can help you understand what is happening with your child and choose strategies that support your child through their journey to happiness and health. I offer individual sessions, play therapy, sand tray therapy, parent consultations, coaching, and family therapy sessions to help your child be their best self.
(224) 529-0696 View (224) 529-0696
Photo of Diana Escobedo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Diana Escobedo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.
You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.
(815) 893-9165 View (815) 893-9165
Photo of Catherine Ness, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Catherine Ness
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
(224) 334-3976 x2 View (224) 334-3976 x2
Photo of Debbie Chirikos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Debbie Chirikos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I am a career social worker who has worked in richly diverse practice settings for 40 years. I can help address generalized anxiety, depression, grief and relationship challenges. I offer mostly solution focused and thus forward facing intervention to help you address your current distress. I prefer cognitive based approaches that address thinking distortions that often contribute to painful feelings and troubling behaviors.
I am a career social worker who has worked in richly diverse practice settings for 40 years. I can help address generalized anxiety, depression, grief and relationship challenges. I offer mostly solution focused and thus forward facing intervention to help you address your current distress. I prefer cognitive based approaches that address thinking distortions that often contribute to painful feelings and troubling behaviors.
(847) 325-5606 View (847) 325-5606
Photo of Sana Wellness Center, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Sana Wellness Center
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Sana means heal and we strive to create a nurturing environment for you to explore your healing. Sana Wellness Center is dedicated to providing holistic and effective mental health services to anyone who seeks to collaboratively address and heal adverse life experiences and current concerns in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Through unconditional acceptance, we will walk with you as you develop insights while respecting your individuality to achieve your goals. In tandem with mental health services, Sana offers Reiki, sound healing, and trauma yoga to help integrate supportive services into your journey.
Sana means heal and we strive to create a nurturing environment for you to explore your healing. Sana Wellness Center is dedicated to providing holistic and effective mental health services to anyone who seeks to collaboratively address and heal adverse life experiences and current concerns in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Through unconditional acceptance, we will walk with you as you develop insights while respecting your individuality to achieve your goals. In tandem with mental health services, Sana offers Reiki, sound healing, and trauma yoga to help integrate supportive services into your journey.
(224) 427-3485 View (224) 427-3485
Photo of Kavita C Bosamiya, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Kavita C Bosamiya
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe that we all have an inherent ability to heal deeply, oftentimes we just need a safe environment to begin to open and step on this healing journey. When we realize that disoriented parts of ourselves cause imbalance and problems, the awareness itself leads the way to becoming whole and come home to ourselves. As we move through the story of life in time and space, we carry the past to the present and the present to the future. Our bodies – physical and subtle hold so much of our stories beneath the surface. My goal, using somatic-based approaches, is to help you reattune to our existential wisdom and bring lasting change.
I believe that we all have an inherent ability to heal deeply, oftentimes we just need a safe environment to begin to open and step on this healing journey. When we realize that disoriented parts of ourselves cause imbalance and problems, the awareness itself leads the way to becoming whole and come home to ourselves. As we move through the story of life in time and space, we carry the past to the present and the present to the future. Our bodies – physical and subtle hold so much of our stories beneath the surface. My goal, using somatic-based approaches, is to help you reattune to our existential wisdom and bring lasting change.
(815) 384-4549 x7 View (815) 384-4549 x7
Photo of Brittany Rasky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Brittany Rasky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You know you are capable, and yet you feel like a failure. No matter how hard you try, you never feel like you are enough. Other people seem to handle life easily, and yet you struggle with everyday things. You have the desire and motivation to succeed, but things always seem to get in the way, and it always seems like your fault.
You know you are capable, and yet you feel like a failure. No matter how hard you try, you never feel like you are enough. Other people seem to handle life easily, and yet you struggle with everyday things. You have the desire and motivation to succeed, but things always seem to get in the way, and it always seems like your fault.
(224) 505-2147 View (224) 505-2147
Photo of Elizabeth Holtz, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Elizabeth Holtz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Elizabeth Holtz is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2000. She graduated from Benedictine University with a degree in Counseling Psychology. Elizabeth Holtz believes in an eclectic treatment approach as one size does not fit all when it comes to counseling. I believe that clinicians should meet clients where they are. I try to find what the person is missing in terms of sense of self rather than work toward an idealized version based on societal norms. Its more about the client's goals than the therapist's . Her areas of expertise include Spectrum disorders, ADHD and bipolar disorder.
Elizabeth Holtz is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2000. She graduated from Benedictine University with a degree in Counseling Psychology. Elizabeth Holtz believes in an eclectic treatment approach as one size does not fit all when it comes to counseling. I believe that clinicians should meet clients where they are. I try to find what the person is missing in terms of sense of self rather than work toward an idealized version based on societal norms. Its more about the client's goals than the therapist's . Her areas of expertise include Spectrum disorders, ADHD and bipolar disorder.
(224) 507-6627 View (224) 507-6627
Photo of Kary R. Miller, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Kary R. Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
(224) 619-3843 View (224) 619-3843
Photo of Sarah Baker, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Sarah Baker
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe that being the best version of ourselves requires work including connecting with emotions, thoughts and behaviors that at times may be uncomfortable to address. I strive to meet my clients where they are at in their journey by creating a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic relationship with my clients. At times, it may feel as though one is having difficulty changing patterns of behavior or overcoming life's challenges, I help to guide change to develop a more self-aware and engaged sense of self through a collaborative approach with the client and therapist relationship.
I believe that being the best version of ourselves requires work including connecting with emotions, thoughts and behaviors that at times may be uncomfortable to address. I strive to meet my clients where they are at in their journey by creating a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic relationship with my clients. At times, it may feel as though one is having difficulty changing patterns of behavior or overcoming life's challenges, I help to guide change to develop a more self-aware and engaged sense of self through a collaborative approach with the client and therapist relationship.
(224) 864-9618 View (224) 864-9618
Photo of Cassie Khurana, Pre-Licensed Professional in Barrington, IL
Cassie Khurana
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Are you a parent looking for support for your child? I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents, and teens experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where your child can process their emotions, develop coping skills, and create positive change.
Are you a parent looking for support for your child? I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents, and teens experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where your child can process their emotions, develop coping skills, and create positive change.
(847) 558-1059 View (847) 558-1059
Photo of Rachel M. Menge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Rachel M. Menge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Seeking out therapy when feeling overwhelmed or stuck is an act of courage. As a therapist with over 10 years of experience, I am committed to providing a safe space for clients to talk through their roadblocks, life transitions, and adverse experiences. I not only trust my clients are experts of their own lives, but also give them the opportunity to challenge deeply-held beliefs that may no longer help them in their present lives. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum, OCD, and trauma.
Seeking out therapy when feeling overwhelmed or stuck is an act of courage. As a therapist with over 10 years of experience, I am committed to providing a safe space for clients to talk through their roadblocks, life transitions, and adverse experiences. I not only trust my clients are experts of their own lives, but also give them the opportunity to challenge deeply-held beliefs that may no longer help them in their present lives. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum, OCD, and trauma.
(224) 427-6196 View (224) 427-6196
Photo of Dr. Suzanne Scheller, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Dr. Suzanne Scheller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I view therapy as a collaborative process, and strive to create a nonjudgemental and empathic space for clients to feel safe exploring their feelings while developing adaptive coping strategies. I believe that therapy can lead to powerful transformations and provides the opportunity to identify meaningful insights. Together, we can rewrite the narrative that may be keeping you stuck.
I view therapy as a collaborative process, and strive to create a nonjudgemental and empathic space for clients to feel safe exploring their feelings while developing adaptive coping strategies. I believe that therapy can lead to powerful transformations and provides the opportunity to identify meaningful insights. Together, we can rewrite the narrative that may be keeping you stuck.
(224) 308-1542 View (224) 308-1542
Photo of Andrea Perez, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Andrea Perez
Counselor, MA, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
(847) 320-9139 View (847) 320-9139
Photo of Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, P.C., Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
At Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, we are happy to offer in-depth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. Not only do we provide empirically supported interventions such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), but we’re pleased to offer specialized treatment for trauma and sensory issues, such as the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), and EMDR. We support an integrative healing process that may include your spirituality, mindfulness, body work, yoga, nutrition, breath work, psychopharmacology, and connecting with the natural world.
At Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, we are happy to offer in-depth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. Not only do we provide empirically supported interventions such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), but we’re pleased to offer specialized treatment for trauma and sensory issues, such as the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), and EMDR. We support an integrative healing process that may include your spirituality, mindfulness, body work, yoga, nutrition, breath work, psychopharmacology, and connecting with the natural world.
(224) 263-1527 View (224) 263-1527
Photo of Cheri Spiczka, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Cheri Spiczka
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
We all have the power to create happiness in our life. Sometimes we just need help figuring out how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from getting there. Nothing brings me greater joy than helping my clients experience personal and social empowerment and finding contentment in their life. Therapy doesn't start and end after our session, it moves beyond the safety of my office, so they can practice the skills they learn and feel successful managing their life independent of the therapy. I am a warm, accepting and passionate therapist, dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier lives.
We all have the power to create happiness in our life. Sometimes we just need help figuring out how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from getting there. Nothing brings me greater joy than helping my clients experience personal and social empowerment and finding contentment in their life. Therapy doesn't start and end after our session, it moves beyond the safety of my office, so they can practice the skills they learn and feel successful managing their life independent of the therapy. I am a warm, accepting and passionate therapist, dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier lives.
(847) 513-9542 View (847) 513-9542
Photo of Alex Mihalakakos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Alex Mihalakakos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have received both my Bachelors of Social Work and Masters of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago. I strongly believe that we are all doing the best we can at any time with the tools and experiences we have available to us. In building our therapeutic relationship and throughout our work together, you can expect to feel validated, heard, and challenged as we collaborate to initiate your desired changes. We will work together to create a safe and supportive environment where we can work to set goals, explore areas of challenge, and widen your tool belt.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have received both my Bachelors of Social Work and Masters of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago. I strongly believe that we are all doing the best we can at any time with the tools and experiences we have available to us. In building our therapeutic relationship and throughout our work together, you can expect to feel validated, heard, and challenged as we collaborate to initiate your desired changes. We will work together to create a safe and supportive environment where we can work to set goals, explore areas of challenge, and widen your tool belt.
(224) 282-0498 View (224) 282-0498

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Barrington, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Barrington, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
90% Depression
79% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
69% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
55% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Barrington, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Barrington?

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.