Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Jess Leistikow, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Jess Leistikow
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm Jess, and I am a queer neurodivergent therapist who practices LGBTQIA+ friendly, Autistic and ADHD affirming, and trauma-informed therapy. It's my passion to support folks who are feeling the weight of shame and self-doubt, questioning where they belong/who they are, and struggling in their relationship with food and body. I know how painful it can be to feel out of place and like you're trying to fit into a mold that just doesn't feel right for you, so it's important to me to cultivate a space where you can feel like it's celebrated to be you. In our space, there is no such thing as being "too sensitive" or "too much."
I'm Jess, and I am a queer neurodivergent therapist who practices LGBTQIA+ friendly, Autistic and ADHD affirming, and trauma-informed therapy. It's my passion to support folks who are feeling the weight of shame and self-doubt, questioning where they belong/who they are, and struggling in their relationship with food and body. I know how painful it can be to feel out of place and like you're trying to fit into a mold that just doesn't feel right for you, so it's important to me to cultivate a space where you can feel like it's celebrated to be you. In our space, there is no such thing as being "too sensitive" or "too much."
(336) 920-7159 View (336) 920-7159
Photo of Amanda Blackwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Amanda Blackwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Although I welcome the opportunity to work with any person, I specialize in women’s issues, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, parenting and spirituality. I have experience working with adults of all ages. I respect all persons and strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for each individual - regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or belief. I believe everyone has the right to pursue happiness and healing, and I would love to work with you and support you in your journey.
Although I welcome the opportunity to work with any person, I specialize in women’s issues, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, parenting and spirituality. I have experience working with adults of all ages. I respect all persons and strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for each individual - regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or belief. I believe everyone has the right to pursue happiness and healing, and I would love to work with you and support you in your journey.
(336) 360-6163 View (336) 360-6163
Photo of Kimberly Autrey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Kimberly Autrey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
(336) 791-0876 View (336) 791-0876
Photo of Stephen J McCullough, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Stephen J McCullough
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I work with children, adolescents and their families to help them deal with the challenges and problems many of us face each day. I also see adults who are having difficulty at home, at work, or in other areas of life. Let's work together to find solutions.
I work with children, adolescents and their families to help them deal with the challenges and problems many of us face each day. I also see adults who are having difficulty at home, at work, or in other areas of life. Let's work together to find solutions.
(336) 447-1934 View (336) 447-1934
Photo of M. Elizabeth Doub, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
M. Elizabeth Doub
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC, RYT200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning - using mindfulness, play, and person centered methods (among others) in our work together. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning - using mindfulness, play, and person centered methods (among others) in our work together. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
(336) 794-6877 View (336) 794-6877
Photo of Jared Brinkerhoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Jared Brinkerhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
There are so many reasons that therapy can be right for you, ranging from daily stressors to massive life events or transitions. Who knows, there might even be a global pandemic or two thrown in just to keep things interesting. Whether your path forward through difficult times is clear and you just want to process the changes, or maybe you can't see the light and need someone to help you find your way, I am happy to go on that journey with you. Because therapy is a truly tough thing, my "ideal" clients are simply willing to give their best effort and commit to the process.
There are so many reasons that therapy can be right for you, ranging from daily stressors to massive life events or transitions. Who knows, there might even be a global pandemic or two thrown in just to keep things interesting. Whether your path forward through difficult times is clear and you just want to process the changes, or maybe you can't see the light and need someone to help you find your way, I am happy to go on that journey with you. Because therapy is a truly tough thing, my "ideal" clients are simply willing to give their best effort and commit to the process.
(336) 872-2095 View (336) 872-2095
Photo of Candace L Washington, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Candace L Washington
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Feeling isolated? Unsure how to manage demands on you? Struggling with decisions? Can't share feelings because you fear being misunderstood? Feeling overwhelmed? I work with adults dealing with issues including excessive worry, role changes, indecision, unhappiness, interpersonal differences to unexpected life challenges. Psychotherapy helps to gain a better understanding of self and others as well as recognize triggers affecting positive growth and change. You never endure this "journey" alone. Together, we explore beliefs, unresolved issues, feelings, and behaviors to develop healthy coping skills and life choices.
Feeling isolated? Unsure how to manage demands on you? Struggling with decisions? Can't share feelings because you fear being misunderstood? Feeling overwhelmed? I work with adults dealing with issues including excessive worry, role changes, indecision, unhappiness, interpersonal differences to unexpected life challenges. Psychotherapy helps to gain a better understanding of self and others as well as recognize triggers affecting positive growth and change. You never endure this "journey" alone. Together, we explore beliefs, unresolved issues, feelings, and behaviors to develop healthy coping skills and life choices.
(336) 606-1569 View (336) 606-1569
Photo of Tanya Gunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tanya Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
(336) 949-6149 View (336) 949-6149
Photo of Leslie Gura, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Leslie Gura
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Are you stuck with in a narrative you didn't count on? It may be causing emotional or physical pain, weariness and hopelessness. But narratives are only one piece of a person's overall story.
Are you stuck with in a narrative you didn't count on? It may be causing emotional or physical pain, weariness and hopelessness. But narratives are only one piece of a person's overall story.
(336) 281-6703 View (336) 281-6703
Photo of Megan Ragone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Megan Ragone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Take the time to invest in yourself through therapy. For well over a decade, I have been honored to work with people from all walks of life. I have found that growth comes when we slow down and invest time in exploring our own beliefs, relationships, and behaviors. Sometimes we need a guide to help make sense of that process: a therapist. For over a decade I have honed my skills in working with grief, trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating, obesity, caregiver stress, women's issues, and more. While I am trained and certified in various modalities, treatment is tailored to each patient's goals
Take the time to invest in yourself through therapy. For well over a decade, I have been honored to work with people from all walks of life. I have found that growth comes when we slow down and invest time in exploring our own beliefs, relationships, and behaviors. Sometimes we need a guide to help make sense of that process: a therapist. For over a decade I have honed my skills in working with grief, trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating, obesity, caregiver stress, women's issues, and more. While I am trained and certified in various modalities, treatment is tailored to each patient's goals
(336) 298-8335 View (336) 298-8335
Photo of Sierra Kohler Felix, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Sierra Kohler Felix
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
I believe that every person is the expert of their own world. My job is to listen with empathy and without judgment in order to gain a full understanding of the individual and their presenting problems, and create a fitting treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe space where clients feel heard and understood, and to build a therapeutic relationship in which we can work together to meet clients' therapeutic goals. I encourage clients to reflect on their ways of relating to the world to help them gain insight into how their thoughts, attitudes, emotions and behaviors affect themselves and others.
I believe that every person is the expert of their own world. My job is to listen with empathy and without judgment in order to gain a full understanding of the individual and their presenting problems, and create a fitting treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe space where clients feel heard and understood, and to build a therapeutic relationship in which we can work together to meet clients' therapeutic goals. I encourage clients to reflect on their ways of relating to the world to help them gain insight into how their thoughts, attitudes, emotions and behaviors affect themselves and others.
(336) 559-4095 View (336) 559-4095
Photo of Trinity Center, Inc., Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Trinity Center, Inc.
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Trinity Center has been committed to helping people for over forty years. Our counselors and psychologists work with adults, adolescents and children experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family of origin issues and identity concerns. Our goal is to help clients address their individual concerns so that they can live full, engaged lives. In addition to counseling, we offer psychoeducational assessment and spiritual direction services.
Trinity Center has been committed to helping people for over forty years. Our counselors and psychologists work with adults, adolescents and children experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family of origin issues and identity concerns. Our goal is to help clients address their individual concerns so that they can live full, engaged lives. In addition to counseling, we offer psychoeducational assessment and spiritual direction services.
(336) 441-5698 View (336) 441-5698
Photo of Alexia Mitchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Alexia Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27105
We must: Heal. Grow. Thrive. And always remember that "Today is a good day to have a good day". Life can be a lot to juggle at times. Sometimes all it takes is for someone to sit beside you and listen to you share that you are doing the best that you can and have it affirmed, that is enough. I am here to validate your feelings and affirm that I am here to support you on your journey. It is YOUR journey.
We must: Heal. Grow. Thrive. And always remember that "Today is a good day to have a good day". Life can be a lot to juggle at times. Sometimes all it takes is for someone to sit beside you and listen to you share that you are doing the best that you can and have it affirmed, that is enough. I am here to validate your feelings and affirm that I am here to support you on your journey. It is YOUR journey.
(336) 864-6224 View (336) 864-6224
Photo of Sarah Carver, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Sarah Carver
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
(336) 203-9421 View (336) 203-9421
Photo of Kimberley Renee Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Kimberley Renee Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27127
Not accepting new clients
I know the world can be overwhelming and stressful. You may feel like no matter what you do it is never good enough or that you struggle coping with all the stressors in your life. This feeling of unworthiness can have a negative impact on how you view both yourself and the world around you. These thoughts and feelings influence your actions. My goal is for you to learn self-acceptance, personal empowerment and to find your truest self. I focus on building a strong alliance with you and building on those strengths.
I know the world can be overwhelming and stressful. You may feel like no matter what you do it is never good enough or that you struggle coping with all the stressors in your life. This feeling of unworthiness can have a negative impact on how you view both yourself and the world around you. These thoughts and feelings influence your actions. My goal is for you to learn self-acceptance, personal empowerment and to find your truest self. I focus on building a strong alliance with you and building on those strengths.
(336) 594-2669 View (336) 594-2669
Photo of Taylor Miller, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Taylor Miller
Counselor, LCMHC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I treat clients who have a history of trauma and/or eating concerns. Maybe this resonates with you. Perhaps your trauma manifested in maladaptive behaviors, like cutting, an eating disorder, or risk behaviors. You have lost the ability to tune into your body and need help reconnecting with your body's wisdom. Using mindfulness, EMDR, and other body-based interventions, I can help you process trauma and develop healthy coping skills to replace the ones that cause you pain.
I treat clients who have a history of trauma and/or eating concerns. Maybe this resonates with you. Perhaps your trauma manifested in maladaptive behaviors, like cutting, an eating disorder, or risk behaviors. You have lost the ability to tune into your body and need help reconnecting with your body's wisdom. Using mindfulness, EMDR, and other body-based interventions, I can help you process trauma and develop healthy coping skills to replace the ones that cause you pain.
(336) 281-6760 View (336) 281-6760
Photo of Sonia Jean Hensel, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Sonia Jean Hensel
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Sonia Hensel, LCAS, CSI, CCTSI/F, SOTP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with a Master of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling. I have 25 years of experience working in substance use and behavioral health. I am experienced with medically-managed treatment (MAT) and can provide you with an integrative and holistic approach to alcohol/drug addiction using evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.
Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with a Master of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling. I have 25 years of experience working in substance use and behavioral health. I am experienced with medically-managed treatment (MAT) and can provide you with an integrative and holistic approach to alcohol/drug addiction using evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.
(336) 276-0371 View (336) 276-0371
Photo of Arnold Joseph Colamarino, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Arnold Joseph Colamarino
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I work with clients who are dealing with different issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we set goals in order to overcome or manage the obstacles that each issue brings.
I work with clients who are dealing with different issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we set goals in order to overcome or manage the obstacles that each issue brings.
(336) 792-5824 x721 View (336) 792-5824 x721
Photo of Liz Wagner Mecham, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Liz Wagner Mecham
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
We are all not OK all of the time. We struggle. We all struggle, whether with mental illness or adjusting to the concerns of everyday life. Could you benefit from having someone help you sort out those issues? I approach counseling from a Person Centered perspective which means my foundation is in being genuine, regarding each client as valuable and trying to understand their view. With couples I take this foundation and focus on attachment, or our need for emotional bonding.
We are all not OK all of the time. We struggle. We all struggle, whether with mental illness or adjusting to the concerns of everyday life. Could you benefit from having someone help you sort out those issues? I approach counseling from a Person Centered perspective which means my foundation is in being genuine, regarding each client as valuable and trying to understand their view. With couples I take this foundation and focus on attachment, or our need for emotional bonding.
(919) 624-5274 View (919) 624-5274
Photo of Voice for Children & Nurturing Families , Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Voice for Children & Nurturing Families
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CCTP, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
(336) 739-4013 View (336) 739-4013

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna
48% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.