Therapists in Anchorage, AK

View neighborhoods in Anchorage
Photo of Kelsey Fox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Kelsey Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
Currently accepting new clients, via tele-health. I see you as a person, someone who is trying to make life work. And then, more often than not, you experience something that shakes your core. This event can begin occurring over time, or it can be a first time experience that leaves your equilibrium off-balance. Then, your thoughts begin to overwhelm you and you begin to wonder if you will ever get back on track. In short yes you can, but it is going to take some time and effort if you are willing to work at it.
Currently accepting new clients, via tele-health. I see you as a person, someone who is trying to make life work. And then, more often than not, you experience something that shakes your core. This event can begin occurring over time, or it can be a first time experience that leaves your equilibrium off-balance. Then, your thoughts begin to overwhelm you and you begin to wonder if you will ever get back on track. In short yes you can, but it is going to take some time and effort if you are willing to work at it.
(866) 583-3514 View (866) 583-3514
Photo of Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC offers a systemic approach to healing relationships. Whether you are interested in strengthening your couple/marital relationship, your connection with your children and family, your relationship with yourself, and/or are seeking therapy for your child or adolescent, our clinicians specialize in providing an authentic and focused approach to healing. Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC maintains a commitment to serving Alaskans with and without insurance by offering a sliding fee scale to those who qualify. All clinicians practice under the mentorship of Ashley M. Barrera, LMFT.
Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC offers a systemic approach to healing relationships. Whether you are interested in strengthening your couple/marital relationship, your connection with your children and family, your relationship with yourself, and/or are seeking therapy for your child or adolescent, our clinicians specialize in providing an authentic and focused approach to healing. Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC maintains a commitment to serving Alaskans with and without insurance by offering a sliding fee scale to those who qualify. All clinicians practice under the mentorship of Ashley M. Barrera, LMFT.
(877) 664-4279 View (877) 664-4279
Photo of Elaine Molchanov, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Elaine Molchanov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IAAP, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99518  (Online Only)
As a Jungian analyst, I work with persons facing moments of spiritual and psychological crisis or breakthrough as they seek bridges to new life. Together, we seek to penetrate stuck places in your life story to tap the deeper meaning that lies beneath surface constriction. Imagination is central in Jungian work, and my practice sees the challenges of life symbolically, not just as obstacles but as possibilities for creative dialogue, deeper understanding, and transformation. Working with dreams, fantasies, memories, and great moments in the present, we reimagine problems, and create a path for life to move forward and go deeper.
As a Jungian analyst, I work with persons facing moments of spiritual and psychological crisis or breakthrough as they seek bridges to new life. Together, we seek to penetrate stuck places in your life story to tap the deeper meaning that lies beneath surface constriction. Imagination is central in Jungian work, and my practice sees the challenges of life symbolically, not just as obstacles but as possibilities for creative dialogue, deeper understanding, and transformation. Working with dreams, fantasies, memories, and great moments in the present, we reimagine problems, and create a path for life to move forward and go deeper.
(907) 331-0972 View (907) 331-0972
Photo of Amy L Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Amy L Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it's an overwhelming sense of loneliness or lack of direction. Often it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and wellness!
People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it's an overwhelming sense of loneliness or lack of direction. Often it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and wellness!
(855) 914-2735 View (855) 914-2735
Photo of Joshua Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Joshua Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CCAT, CDC II, WFR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99504
Hello! I work with teens, young adults, and adults from various backgrounds on increasing self-worth, self-compassion, processing trauma and intergenerational trauma, and reducing harms caused by co-occuring substance use. I am currently available for individual, family, and group sessions via telehealth and through outdoor adventure therapy.
Hello! I work with teens, young adults, and adults from various backgrounds on increasing self-worth, self-compassion, processing trauma and intergenerational trauma, and reducing harms caused by co-occuring substance use. I am currently available for individual, family, and group sessions via telehealth and through outdoor adventure therapy.
(844) 707-9240 View (844) 707-9240
Photo of Amy Marie Dummann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Amy Marie Dummann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518
I am a born and raised Alaskan and have been providing mental health services to individuals and families with a wide range of mental health challenges and developmental disabilities for over 20 years. I became a licensed professional counselor in 2015 and have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
I am a born and raised Alaskan and have been providing mental health services to individuals and families with a wide range of mental health challenges and developmental disabilities for over 20 years. I became a licensed professional counselor in 2015 and have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
(907) 312-0113 View (907) 312-0113
Photo of David Barringer, MFT-A w/Coastal Wellness , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anchorage, AK
David Barringer, MFT-A w/Coastal Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
I enjoy working with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families who are seeking to improve their mental and relational health. I specializes in working with individuals and couples treating concerns related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, grief, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, infidelity, and domestic violence. ​
I enjoy working with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families who are seeking to improve their mental and relational health. I specializes in working with individuals and couples treating concerns related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, grief, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, infidelity, and domestic violence. ​
(907) 917-0191 View (907) 917-0191
Photo of Karen M Cunningham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Karen M Cunningham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Not accepting new clients
I focus on the strengths inherent in each individual, couple, and family. My fundamental belief is that people are innately good and that psychological problems often stem from a rigid or outdated coping system. I stress each individual's growth and the importance of self-actualization. In couples' therapy, there is an emphasis on learning to listen to the emotional truth of the other, while gaining greater authenticity in expressing one's own truth. Through genuine appreciation of one another, couples can learn to re-create, or perhaps experience for the very first time, true understanding, connection, joy and love.
I focus on the strengths inherent in each individual, couple, and family. My fundamental belief is that people are innately good and that psychological problems often stem from a rigid or outdated coping system. I stress each individual's growth and the importance of self-actualization. In couples' therapy, there is an emphasis on learning to listen to the emotional truth of the other, while gaining greater authenticity in expressing one's own truth. Through genuine appreciation of one another, couples can learn to re-create, or perhaps experience for the very first time, true understanding, connection, joy and love.
(907) 341-4062 View (907) 341-4062
Photo of Chris Reynolds, Psychologist in Anchorage, AK
Chris Reynolds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
My style as a therapist can best be described as eclectic, as I draw from a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations. That being said I tend to be highly client centered, which means I assume clients are the authorities about their own systems. In therapy, it's my job to describe what the science of psychology has to offer given the presenting problem and my professional experience in the area. However, it's my clients who get to decide how this information is applicable to their lives. More about my therapeutic orientation can be found on my website: www.reynoldstherapy.com
My style as a therapist can best be described as eclectic, as I draw from a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations. That being said I tend to be highly client centered, which means I assume clients are the authorities about their own systems. In therapy, it's my job to describe what the science of psychology has to offer given the presenting problem and my professional experience in the area. However, it's my clients who get to decide how this information is applicable to their lives. More about my therapeutic orientation can be found on my website: www.reynoldstherapy.com
(907) 279-9274 View (907) 279-9274
Photo of Root Issues, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Root Issues
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99522  (Online Only)
Health, is about establishing and maintaining connections to self, community, our spirituality and those we love. When these connections are damaged by trauma, pain, fear, or other trials of life, we sometimes need help to rebuild, reconnect, and strengthen our current connections. My name is David Root. I am a licensed professional counselor and I would be honored to help with this journey.
Health, is about establishing and maintaining connections to self, community, our spirituality and those we love. When these connections are damaged by trauma, pain, fear, or other trials of life, we sometimes need help to rebuild, reconnect, and strengthen our current connections. My name is David Root. I am a licensed professional counselor and I would be honored to help with this journey.
(907) 891-8183 View (907) 891-8183
Photo of Brandi Askeland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Brandi Askeland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients! Parenting is hard. When your child experiences behavioral health difficulties, this can feel confusing, frustrating, as well as exhausting. Keep hold of your hope, there are clinically proven strategies out there. I utilize an integrative and cooperative approach to support both you and your child in treatment. My passion is helping parents be the best parents they believed they could be, supporting connections within the family unit and helping youth heal. It takes courage, work, and intention to reach your full potential.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients! Parenting is hard. When your child experiences behavioral health difficulties, this can feel confusing, frustrating, as well as exhausting. Keep hold of your hope, there are clinically proven strategies out there. I utilize an integrative and cooperative approach to support both you and your child in treatment. My passion is helping parents be the best parents they believed they could be, supporting connections within the family unit and helping youth heal. It takes courage, work, and intention to reach your full potential.
(907) 759-3720 View (907) 759-3720
Photo of Confluence, LLC, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Confluence, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, MFTA
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508
We are not just counselors; we are architects of possibilities! Together, we envision a future where your potential is not bound by today’s challenges. We guide you towards a path of self-discovery and empower you to shape a vision for your life. We walk alongside you as friends, grounded in humility. Recognizing that we are all on a journey of growth, our aim is not to lead but to accompany. We listen attentively, share experiences, and learn from one another with a spirit of camaraderie.
We are not just counselors; we are architects of possibilities! Together, we envision a future where your potential is not bound by today’s challenges. We guide you towards a path of self-discovery and empower you to shape a vision for your life. We walk alongside you as friends, grounded in humility. Recognizing that we are all on a journey of growth, our aim is not to lead but to accompany. We listen attentively, share experiences, and learn from one another with a spirit of camaraderie.
(844) 698-2821 View (844) 698-2821
Photo of Counseling for Her - Alaska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Counseling for Her - Alaska
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507  (Online Only)
Welcoming new clients, serving women exclusively. I’d love to provide you support in addressing people pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, and boundary setting. I’m here for you if you’re grieving, experiencing anxiety, depression, or “smiling depression.” We can work together on exploring your experience in the Affair Triangle, or deciding to divorce (is it time to leave?) I’m experienced and interested in helping women newly-identifying or newly out as queer, to navigate internalized heteronormativity. I also provide support around Maternal Mental Health. Please visit my website for more and to see if we might be the right fit.
Welcoming new clients, serving women exclusively. I’d love to provide you support in addressing people pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, and boundary setting. I’m here for you if you’re grieving, experiencing anxiety, depression, or “smiling depression.” We can work together on exploring your experience in the Affair Triangle, or deciding to divorce (is it time to leave?) I’m experienced and interested in helping women newly-identifying or newly out as queer, to navigate internalized heteronormativity. I also provide support around Maternal Mental Health. Please visit my website for more and to see if we might be the right fit.
(907) 290-8172 View (907) 290-8172
Photo of Aries M McGinnis, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Aries M McGinnis
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99511  (Online Only)
Telehealth Counseling and Coaching throughout the US. While working with people, I help them work through the process of engagement, healing, and growth. My initial approach is to see the greatness of a person. I work with people to help them see their own greatness noting that their behaviors do not define them. The behavior is unhealthy, not the person. Who a person is at the core is always great, healthy, and beautiful. As we pull apart maladaptive behaviors from the individual, I help people become actively engaged in their own therapeutic process beginning a journey of healing and growth.
Telehealth Counseling and Coaching throughout the US. While working with people, I help them work through the process of engagement, healing, and growth. My initial approach is to see the greatness of a person. I work with people to help them see their own greatness noting that their behaviors do not define them. The behavior is unhealthy, not the person. Who a person is at the core is always great, healthy, and beautiful. As we pull apart maladaptive behaviors from the individual, I help people become actively engaged in their own therapeutic process beginning a journey of healing and growth.
(888) 689-6119 View (888) 689-6119
Photo of Mike Blakey, Psychologist in Anchorage, AK
Mike Blakey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I work at Greatland Clinical Associates located in Anchorage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can fully explore your concerns, challenges, and values. I support the humanistic principles that people are best helped by a therapist who is psychologically present and establishes a therapeutic environment that is accepting, empathic, and authentic. The relationship the client and therapist build is itself an important agent of change and therefore, is an integral part of the therapy focus.
I work at Greatland Clinical Associates located in Anchorage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can fully explore your concerns, challenges, and values. I support the humanistic principles that people are best helped by a therapist who is psychologically present and establishes a therapeutic environment that is accepting, empathic, and authentic. The relationship the client and therapist build is itself an important agent of change and therefore, is an integral part of the therapy focus.
(907) 929-4009 View (907) 929-4009
Photo of Laurie R Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Laurie R Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
As a clinical therapist I am committed to treating the whole person; spirit, mind, and body. I am an EMDR provider and facilitate holistic treatment to adults, adolescents, and couples with a variety of needs.
As a clinical therapist I am committed to treating the whole person; spirit, mind, and body. I am an EMDR provider and facilitate holistic treatment to adults, adolescents, and couples with a variety of needs.
(907) 318-1614 View (907) 318-1614
Photo of Kevin Tarlow, Psychologist in Anchorage, AK
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.
(855) 959-3207 View (855) 959-3207
Photo of Uliana Fleener, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Uliana Fleener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99517
“Life is not about how many times you fall down. It’s about how many times you get back up.”- Jaime Escalante. Do you remember what it feels like to live your life to the fullest? Greet every day with a smile, knowing that you're going to be OK no matter what life throws at you? To feel content in your essence and in your body? I work with clients who feel like they have lost "pieces of themselves" along the way during difficult/traumatic childhood or life events, grief, break-ups/divorces/ abusive relationships, struggles with depression, anxiety, phobias, attachment traumas etc.
“Life is not about how many times you fall down. It’s about how many times you get back up.”- Jaime Escalante. Do you remember what it feels like to live your life to the fullest? Greet every day with a smile, knowing that you're going to be OK no matter what life throws at you? To feel content in your essence and in your body? I work with clients who feel like they have lost "pieces of themselves" along the way during difficult/traumatic childhood or life events, grief, break-ups/divorces/ abusive relationships, struggles with depression, anxiety, phobias, attachment traumas etc.
(907) 830-8262 View (907) 830-8262
Photo of Cynthia Aiello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Cynthia Aiello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99507  (Online Only)
It hovers over you like a dark cloud. The pressure of trying to meet everyone's expectations (including your own) is too much to handle most days. And when you can't fulfill these expectations, the guilt & shame of not being good enough creep in. No matter what you accomplish you still feel inadequate. There's always a nagging feeling that something's wrong with you. It's exhausting, and you're tired of feeling this way each day. You wish you could have support, but don't want to burden others with your problems. Who would want to listen? In spite of being there for others, it seems that when you need help, it's nowhere to be found.
It hovers over you like a dark cloud. The pressure of trying to meet everyone's expectations (including your own) is too much to handle most days. And when you can't fulfill these expectations, the guilt & shame of not being good enough creep in. No matter what you accomplish you still feel inadequate. There's always a nagging feeling that something's wrong with you. It's exhausting, and you're tired of feeling this way each day. You wish you could have support, but don't want to burden others with your problems. Who would want to listen? In spite of being there for others, it seems that when you need help, it's nowhere to be found.
(907) 444-4526 View (907) 444-4526
Photo of Esther Bold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Esther Bold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507  (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of trauma, depression, and substance use can be especially daunting for active military members. The unique pressures of service, alongside these challenges, often lead to feelings of isolation and misunderstanding. If you're an active service member grappling with these issues, it's important to recognize the courage it takes to acknowledge these struggles and seek support. Tailored care that respects your service and individual experiences can offer a pathway to resilience and recovery.
Navigating the complexities of trauma, depression, and substance use can be especially daunting for active military members. The unique pressures of service, alongside these challenges, often lead to feelings of isolation and misunderstanding. If you're an active service member grappling with these issues, it's important to recognize the courage it takes to acknowledge these struggles and seek support. Tailored care that respects your service and individual experiences can offer a pathway to resilience and recovery.
(844) 768-3442 View (844) 768-3442

How 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

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.