Therapists in Edmonds, WA

Photo of Kristin J Hill, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Kristin J Hill
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
1 in 5 women will experience a clinical mood or anxiety disorder during and/or after pregnancy. Between 25-34% of women report their births as traumatic. Following the birth, some go on to develop Postpartum PTSD. The earlier there is support during this vulnerable and often overwhelming time, the adjustment to motherhood is less bumpy. I work with women (and their partners) to manage anxiety, depression, fear around motherhood and birth, postpartum PTSD and planning for postpartum support. I offer support during pregnancy and postpartum in a couple different ways. Traditional therapy, short-term home visits, or consulting.
1 in 5 women will experience a clinical mood or anxiety disorder during and/or after pregnancy. Between 25-34% of women report their births as traumatic. Following the birth, some go on to develop Postpartum PTSD. The earlier there is support during this vulnerable and often overwhelming time, the adjustment to motherhood is less bumpy. I work with women (and their partners) to manage anxiety, depression, fear around motherhood and birth, postpartum PTSD and planning for postpartum support. I offer support during pregnancy and postpartum in a couple different ways. Traditional therapy, short-term home visits, or consulting.
(425) 529-5577 View (425) 529-5577
Photo of Stan Case, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Stan Case
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to adults, children, and adolescents in my private practice in Edmonds, Washington. I work with individual and relationship issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, dissociative disorders and trauma. My office is one block north of Swedish Hospital. Feel free to call my office directly at (425) 775-5678.
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to adults, children, and adolescents in my private practice in Edmonds, Washington. I work with individual and relationship issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, dissociative disorders and trauma. My office is one block north of Swedish Hospital. Feel free to call my office directly at (425) 775-5678.
(425) 610-8894 View (425) 610-8894
Photo of Brooksi Bottari, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Brooksi Bottari
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CETP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a counselor licensed in Washington state with 15 years of pre and post graduate experience. I am open and believe in unconditional acceptance and non-judgement. I am a good fit for you if you're interested in finding solutions and feeling empowered to heal your past and step into your personal power. I believe we are all capable of leading lives free from the layers of programming and trauma virus that has been downloaded into our system.
Hi! I am a counselor licensed in Washington state with 15 years of pre and post graduate experience. I am open and believe in unconditional acceptance and non-judgement. I am a good fit for you if you're interested in finding solutions and feeling empowered to heal your past and step into your personal power. I believe we are all capable of leading lives free from the layers of programming and trauma virus that has been downloaded into our system.
(425) 409-5068 View (425) 409-5068
Photo of Renee Swatz, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Renee Swatz
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Renee Swatz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2022. Renee uses a variety of techniques to offer each client their own personal experience of healing. She utilizes motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT to assist clients on their journey. Renee has a gentle approach but does occasionally give homework assignments to help guide a client through strong emotions or to help learn new coping skills. She has experience with depression and depressive disorders, anxiety, and substance use. Renee would love to talk with you.
Renee Swatz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2022. Renee uses a variety of techniques to offer each client their own personal experience of healing. She utilizes motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT to assist clients on their journey. Renee has a gentle approach but does occasionally give homework assignments to help guide a client through strong emotions or to help learn new coping skills. She has experience with depression and depressive disorders, anxiety, and substance use. Renee would love to talk with you.
(425) 970-9850 View (425) 970-9850
Photo of Valentinya Germer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Valentinya Germer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I work with youth, age 13+, and adults across the lifespan. I'm passionate about LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming mental health therapy, I support folks in navigating and exploring relationship to self and others (sex and body positive, ethical non-monogamy and poly affirming), anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, disability, chronic-illness, grief, substance use, life transitions and challenges. I have an intersectional, anti-oppressive approach to therapy— highlighting how our relationship to ourselves, community, environment, and historical legacies impact and affect each other.
I work with youth, age 13+, and adults across the lifespan. I'm passionate about LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming mental health therapy, I support folks in navigating and exploring relationship to self and others (sex and body positive, ethical non-monogamy and poly affirming), anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, disability, chronic-illness, grief, substance use, life transitions and challenges. I have an intersectional, anti-oppressive approach to therapy— highlighting how our relationship to ourselves, community, environment, and historical legacies impact and affect each other.
(425) 490-5466 View (425) 490-5466
Photo of Raquel Sadler, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Raquel Sadler
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, CCST
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Now accepting new clients! It is an honor and a privilege to journey alongside you as we work towards understanding the barriers that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I work to create an authentically safe space where you can explore life's obstacles that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I am here to support you as you journey towards living the life you desire to live.
Now accepting new clients! It is an honor and a privilege to journey alongside you as we work towards understanding the barriers that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I work to create an authentically safe space where you can explore life's obstacles that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I am here to support you as you journey towards living the life you desire to live.
(425) 689-7072 View (425) 689-7072
Photo of Colleen C. Holbrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Colleen C. Holbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or in a battle with your body? Do you have trouble identifying your needs, establishing boundaries or settling limits. Do you put everyone else first? Are you frustrated by the challenges of ADHD? Are you a parent confused by your child's behavior? Are you someone who has experienced abuse and neglect growing up? Have you been able to move past the pain of grief and loss? Are you feeling disrespected and overlooked in your life? My clients are able to open up about their lives, their secrets and struggles in a warm, safe environment free of judgement where there is trust and understanding.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or in a battle with your body? Do you have trouble identifying your needs, establishing boundaries or settling limits. Do you put everyone else first? Are you frustrated by the challenges of ADHD? Are you a parent confused by your child's behavior? Are you someone who has experienced abuse and neglect growing up? Have you been able to move past the pain of grief and loss? Are you feeling disrespected and overlooked in your life? My clients are able to open up about their lives, their secrets and struggles in a warm, safe environment free of judgement where there is trust and understanding.
(206) 457-3540 View (206) 457-3540
Photo of Peggy Farah, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Peggy Farah
Counselor, MPS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
We all crave connection, peace, a sense of worth and belonging and we all go through periods of struggling to find wholeness. I see therapy as a partnership where I work to support you on your particular path towards healing, wholeness and thriving in your relationships. I believe my most important task is creating safety within the therapeutic encounter so that my clients have a place where they can vulnerability heal.
We all crave connection, peace, a sense of worth and belonging and we all go through periods of struggling to find wholeness. I see therapy as a partnership where I work to support you on your particular path towards healing, wholeness and thriving in your relationships. I believe my most important task is creating safety within the therapeutic encounter so that my clients have a place where they can vulnerability heal.
(425) 321-5859 View (425) 321-5859
Photo of Elaine Willey, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Elaine Willey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
For over 20 years, I've worked with individuals and couples struggling with relationship problems, challenging life transitions like mid-life crises, job stress, grief and loss, and living authentically. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and chronic health issues. You're not alone in your struggle once we begin to work together. I listen deeply to really understand you as we work to transform your issues. I offer sessions in my Edmonds office, by phone, or by video conference.
For over 20 years, I've worked with individuals and couples struggling with relationship problems, challenging life transitions like mid-life crises, job stress, grief and loss, and living authentically. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and chronic health issues. You're not alone in your struggle once we begin to work together. I listen deeply to really understand you as we work to transform your issues. I offer sessions in my Edmonds office, by phone, or by video conference.
(206) 455-7166 View (206) 455-7166
Photo of Alex Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Alex Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker who specializes in working with youth and young adults. I have experience with trauma (including cPTSD), anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity formation. My style is warm, humanistic, and collaborative, and I believe in humor as a great tool for healing and connection. I also believe in bringing our authentic selves into the therapy room and love to incorporate hobbies and interests into treatment. As an example, I'm trained in therapeutically-applied roleplaying games (like Dungeons & Dragons).
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker who specializes in working with youth and young adults. I have experience with trauma (including cPTSD), anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity formation. My style is warm, humanistic, and collaborative, and I believe in humor as a great tool for healing and connection. I also believe in bringing our authentic selves into the therapy room and love to incorporate hobbies and interests into treatment. As an example, I'm trained in therapeutically-applied roleplaying games (like Dungeons & Dragons).
(206) 350-2151 View (206) 350-2151
Photo of Kevin Kyle Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Kevin Kyle Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
I AM ACCEPTING new clients . Welcome and thank you for considering me to be part of your change process in this phase of your journey. Life is full of peaks and valleys and each challenge along the way is an opportunity for growth. I take an eclectic approach to therapy working with you to gain an understanding of your unique strengths and struggles and what works best for you to make the necessary changes to improve your life. I have over 31 years of counseling experience working with individuals, couples and families in a multitude of settings.
I AM ACCEPTING new clients . Welcome and thank you for considering me to be part of your change process in this phase of your journey. Life is full of peaks and valleys and each challenge along the way is an opportunity for growth. I take an eclectic approach to therapy working with you to gain an understanding of your unique strengths and struggles and what works best for you to make the necessary changes to improve your life. I have over 31 years of counseling experience working with individuals, couples and families in a multitude of settings.
(425) 217-8871 View (425) 217-8871
Photo of WiseTherapy, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
WiseTherapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Is there something or someone weighing you down and zapping your energy? Have you tried to resolve it, yet it only gets worse? Does it make it hard to see a path foreword? Many of my clients come to me with this dilemma. I care deeply about my clients and will work hard for you to reach your goals. I am passionate about helping you to feel heard, know your own strengths and get you moving foreword. If this sounds good, call me. Let's talk . . .
Is there something or someone weighing you down and zapping your energy? Have you tried to resolve it, yet it only gets worse? Does it make it hard to see a path foreword? Many of my clients come to me with this dilemma. I care deeply about my clients and will work hard for you to reach your goals. I am passionate about helping you to feel heard, know your own strengths and get you moving foreword. If this sounds good, call me. Let's talk . . .
(206) 483-2474 View (206) 483-2474
Photo of Samuel Gales, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Samuel Gales
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Dr. Samuel Gales is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington who has been practicing since 2018. Every person has a story that influences the thoughts and feelings they currently experience. The past cannot be changed, but the future has yet to be written. By seeking therapy, you are taking an important step in bringing about the change that produces healing. Dr. Gales's approach to therapy is tailored to fit the unique needs of the individual, using evidence-based practices to bring hope to those who are looking to build a life with meaning and purpose.
Dr. Samuel Gales is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington who has been practicing since 2018. Every person has a story that influences the thoughts and feelings they currently experience. The past cannot be changed, but the future has yet to be written. By seeking therapy, you are taking an important step in bringing about the change that produces healing. Dr. Gales's approach to therapy is tailored to fit the unique needs of the individual, using evidence-based practices to bring hope to those who are looking to build a life with meaning and purpose.
(425) 517-2914 View (425) 517-2914
Photo of Julie Hanson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Julie Hanson
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Are you sometimes overwhelmed by your feelings, as though they are in control of your life? Do you find yourself running into the same frustrations in your life or relationships and confused about how to make meaningful change to those patterns? I help clients heal and move beyond difficult emotions and life experiences. Perhaps you are finding yourself stuck at a crossroads. I help clients discover what will bring them happiness and peace and then take the steps of realizing that vision.
Are you sometimes overwhelmed by your feelings, as though they are in control of your life? Do you find yourself running into the same frustrations in your life or relationships and confused about how to make meaningful change to those patterns? I help clients heal and move beyond difficult emotions and life experiences. Perhaps you are finding yourself stuck at a crossroads. I help clients discover what will bring them happiness and peace and then take the steps of realizing that vision.
(425) 954-3816 View (425) 954-3816
Photo of Sabrina Rood in Edmonds, WA
Sabrina Rood
EdD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
I welcome adult clients who are seeking support and encouragement as they face life's challenges. I am especially skilled and experienced at diagnostic assessment and supportive narrative therapy for adults with high-functioning autism or Asperger's. Many adults have wondered if they might be on the autism spectrum and seek a diagnosis later in life. I am happy to welcome those clients who want to explore spirituality within our work together. I am experienced in counseling GLBTQ clients and clients who identify as poly or kink. I enjoy working with bereaved parents and artists, musicians, and writers.
I welcome adult clients who are seeking support and encouragement as they face life's challenges. I am especially skilled and experienced at diagnostic assessment and supportive narrative therapy for adults with high-functioning autism or Asperger's. Many adults have wondered if they might be on the autism spectrum and seek a diagnosis later in life. I am happy to welcome those clients who want to explore spirituality within our work together. I am experienced in counseling GLBTQ clients and clients who identify as poly or kink. I enjoy working with bereaved parents and artists, musicians, and writers.
(206) 866-2984 View (206) 866-2984
Photo of Elizabeth B Lyell, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Elizabeth B Lyell
Counselor, CC, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
My overall aim is to offer warm, safe, thoughtful, caring support for you as you deal with whatever difficulties or challenges you are going through. You may be facing change, or the need for such. If you are experiencing insecurity, anxiety, fear, confusion, depression, turmoil, I can help. And if you are searching for new life direction and wish to develop greater confidence, self-awareness and intactness, I can help with this as well. I enjoy working with people and can offer you compassion, neutrality, wisdom, encouragement. If you wish to discover more about yourself and your situation, you have my support, please be in touch.
My overall aim is to offer warm, safe, thoughtful, caring support for you as you deal with whatever difficulties or challenges you are going through. You may be facing change, or the need for such. If you are experiencing insecurity, anxiety, fear, confusion, depression, turmoil, I can help. And if you are searching for new life direction and wish to develop greater confidence, self-awareness and intactness, I can help with this as well. I enjoy working with people and can offer you compassion, neutrality, wisdom, encouragement. If you wish to discover more about yourself and your situation, you have my support, please be in touch.
(425) 598-0831 View (425) 598-0831
Photo of Debby Fields, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Debby Fields
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Have you or your loved ones experienced trauma, loss, or unmet needs? Are you feeling defeated and hopeless about your relationship with your child or spouse? If your messages to yourself are critical and self-defeating, or your communication with family members is strained and ineffective, you are continually bumping up against the same walls. Understanding and nurturing are necessary for your healing and growth. With awareness and support you can have peace in your heart and joy in your relationships.
Have you or your loved ones experienced trauma, loss, or unmet needs? Are you feeling defeated and hopeless about your relationship with your child or spouse? If your messages to yourself are critical and self-defeating, or your communication with family members is strained and ineffective, you are continually bumping up against the same walls. Understanding and nurturing are necessary for your healing and growth. With awareness and support you can have peace in your heart and joy in your relationships.
(425) 307-5207 View (425) 307-5207
Photo of Erin U McKinney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Erin U McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
My passion is in working with children, adolescents and families on issues including emotional challenges, trauma, life transitions, parenting concerns and mood disorders. I also provide therapeutic support to adults experiencing a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma. I see my role as a therapist to guide clients to grow through creating an atmosphere of empathy and attentiveness in a safe and confidential environment. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet clients where they are, including motivational interviewing, collaborative problem solving, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness therapy.
My passion is in working with children, adolescents and families on issues including emotional challenges, trauma, life transitions, parenting concerns and mood disorders. I also provide therapeutic support to adults experiencing a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma. I see my role as a therapist to guide clients to grow through creating an atmosphere of empathy and attentiveness in a safe and confidential environment. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet clients where they are, including motivational interviewing, collaborative problem solving, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness therapy.
(206) 347-8324 View (206) 347-8324
Photo of Bluestone Psychological Services, LLC, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Bluestone Psychological Services, LLC
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Find us at: www.BluestonePS.com. At Bluestone you have access to a group of independent, private practitioners who offer a wide variety of services so you can get the type of help you need in one location. Each of us has many years of experience and advanced training within our specialty areas so you know you or your loved one are working with someone who is highly skilled and can help facilitate reaching your goals.
Find us at: www.BluestonePS.com. At Bluestone you have access to a group of independent, private practitioners who offer a wide variety of services so you can get the type of help you need in one location. Each of us has many years of experience and advanced training within our specialty areas so you know you or your loved one are working with someone who is highly skilled and can help facilitate reaching your goals.
(425) 385-0106 View (425) 385-0106
Photo of Claire Hargett in Edmonds, WA
Claire Hargett
MSPsy, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
As Licensed Behavior Analyst, I founded ASBI to support our neurodivergent communities by making ABA with a trauma-informed approach, more accessible and individualized. I lead with the assumption that each client I work with has had trauma that may have inhibited their emotional growth, skill development, and the ability to set boundaries, or form trusting relationships. Compassionate care is an essential component of my practice, where trust is built and skills are practiced in a safe space, both physically and emotionally.
As Licensed Behavior Analyst, I founded ASBI to support our neurodivergent communities by making ABA with a trauma-informed approach, more accessible and individualized. I lead with the assumption that each client I work with has had trauma that may have inhibited their emotional growth, skill development, and the ability to set boundaries, or form trusting relationships. Compassionate care is an essential component of my practice, where trust is built and skills are practiced in a safe space, both physically and emotionally.
(425) 537-6830 View (425) 537-6830

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Edmonds, WA

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Edmonds, WA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
67% Grief
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Premera
63% Regence
55% First Choice Health | FCH

How Therapists in Edmonds, WA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Edmonds?

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.