Therapists in Topeka, KS

Photo of Brandi Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Brandi Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Do you feel unworthy, unwanted, unloved or unable? Is it time to unpack your un's? Life has its many challenges that can leave us feeling less than. It is not easy to open up about your deepest hurts, trauma's or feelings, but shining a light on those big emotions is how you begin your healing journey.
Do you feel unworthy, unwanted, unloved or unable? Is it time to unpack your un's? Life has its many challenges that can leave us feeling less than. It is not easy to open up about your deepest hurts, trauma's or feelings, but shining a light on those big emotions is how you begin your healing journey.
(785) 669-8740 View (785) 669-8740
Photo of Mitchell A Skidmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Mitchell A Skidmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66611
Do you feel unsure of who you are now? Perhaps you are going through a transition in your life and trying to understand how to get along. Maybe you feel like you aren’t yourself because of intense, persistent feelings of some kind. Maybe your past is dragging you down. Maybe your relationships at home, work, or in your community are not as satisfying as you wish they could be. You’re starting to think, you need an outside perspective; It’s hard to sort through this alone. These thoughts have got you asking, “Will psychotherapy help? Can it really change things? Is it worth it?”
Do you feel unsure of who you are now? Perhaps you are going through a transition in your life and trying to understand how to get along. Maybe you feel like you aren’t yourself because of intense, persistent feelings of some kind. Maybe your past is dragging you down. Maybe your relationships at home, work, or in your community are not as satisfying as you wish they could be. You’re starting to think, you need an outside perspective; It’s hard to sort through this alone. These thoughts have got you asking, “Will psychotherapy help? Can it really change things? Is it worth it?”
(785) 384-8691 View (785) 384-8691
Photo of Timothy Erin Rush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Timothy Erin Rush
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66604
We can overcome what holds us back. Overcoming OCD and other personal challenges led me into the counseling field, and my commitment is to help you develop and implement your own unique process of renovation, healing, and change. While reaching out for help may be difficult and create feelings of vulnerability, it is often the necessary first step on one of life's most important journeys--the journey of uncovering and maximizing your potential. Based on personal experience, I believe that the rewards are likely to exceed the feelings of risk.
We can overcome what holds us back. Overcoming OCD and other personal challenges led me into the counseling field, and my commitment is to help you develop and implement your own unique process of renovation, healing, and change. While reaching out for help may be difficult and create feelings of vulnerability, it is often the necessary first step on one of life's most important journeys--the journey of uncovering and maximizing your potential. Based on personal experience, I believe that the rewards are likely to exceed the feelings of risk.
(785) 975-8180 View (785) 975-8180
Photo of Yolanda Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Topeka, KS
Yolanda Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Working with youth ages 7-17, making a case by case exception for youth 4-6. Children with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, and Depression are the main diagnoses treated. Evening hours available.
Working with youth ages 7-17, making a case by case exception for youth 4-6. Children with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, and Depression are the main diagnoses treated. Evening hours available.
(785) 675-5472 View (785) 675-5472
Photo of Bethany Hirsh-Street, Marriage & Family Therapist in Topeka, KS
Bethany Hirsh-Street
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with clients of all stages of life from toddler to adulthood. I work with individuals and families. I help clients address issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, problematic behavior, parenting, and interpersonal stressors. I help them work through their stressors to find peace and healthier functioning.
I enjoy working with clients of all stages of life from toddler to adulthood. I work with individuals and families. I help clients address issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, problematic behavior, parenting, and interpersonal stressors. I help them work through their stressors to find peace and healthier functioning.
(785) 470-3256 View (785) 470-3256
Photo of Elizabeth Van Vleck, Counselor in Topeka, KS
Elizabeth Van Vleck
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66608
Navigating through life can be challenging and stressful. There are so many stressors that cause a person to feel like giving up hope, feeling disconnected, unmotivated, alone, fearful, and even scared. I am passionate about helping people discover and develop skills to address life stressors. I meet the person where he or she is currently at and together we will develop a plan to meet his or her needs.I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness and strengths-based approach.I have extensive experience working with various types of people
Navigating through life can be challenging and stressful. There are so many stressors that cause a person to feel like giving up hope, feeling disconnected, unmotivated, alone, fearful, and even scared. I am passionate about helping people discover and develop skills to address life stressors. I meet the person where he or she is currently at and together we will develop a plan to meet his or her needs.I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness and strengths-based approach.I have extensive experience working with various types of people
(785) 264-4159 View (785) 264-4159
Photo of Pamela Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Pamela Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
People can benefit from taking the time to reflect and think about their lives in the presence of a neutral therapist. When people encounter a crisis or a difficult situation, it provides an opportunity for the development of self. Change is possible. Therapy provides an avenue to identify and interrupt old ways of thinking, feeling and behaving that are keeping one stuck. It provides an opportunity to "think/reflect" on one's life vs. automatically responding to life's stresses. In this process, a person is often able to see things in a new light and identify new options for dealing with old problems.
People can benefit from taking the time to reflect and think about their lives in the presence of a neutral therapist. When people encounter a crisis or a difficult situation, it provides an opportunity for the development of self. Change is possible. Therapy provides an avenue to identify and interrupt old ways of thinking, feeling and behaving that are keeping one stuck. It provides an opportunity to "think/reflect" on one's life vs. automatically responding to life's stresses. In this process, a person is often able to see things in a new light and identify new options for dealing with old problems.
(785) 260-6702 View (785) 260-6702
Photo of Daniel Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Daniel Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LMAC-t
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66612
As the founder of E.P.I.C. LLC, I am deeply committed to empowering individuals in their communities at pivotal moments. My passion lies in assisting those at a crossroads, ready to embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, resilience, and fulfillment. Utilizing an Eclectic therapy approach, I blend techniques from various therapeutic methods to fit your needs. This creates a safe space to explore, understand, and grow. My expertise equips me to guide you toward not just surviving but thriving in a life that's authentically yours. Let's connect if you seek a partner to navigate your path to a joyful, meaningful life.
As the founder of E.P.I.C. LLC, I am deeply committed to empowering individuals in their communities at pivotal moments. My passion lies in assisting those at a crossroads, ready to embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, resilience, and fulfillment. Utilizing an Eclectic therapy approach, I blend techniques from various therapeutic methods to fit your needs. This creates a safe space to explore, understand, and grow. My expertise equips me to guide you toward not just surviving but thriving in a life that's authentically yours. Let's connect if you seek a partner to navigate your path to a joyful, meaningful life.
(785) 508-1117 View (785) 508-1117
Photo of Jim Lance Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jim Lance Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
(785) 322-8592 View (785) 322-8592
Photo of Jason Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jason Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
If you have found my page, you or someone you know are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger or some other stressor. Therapy is useful as it will help you develop new ways to manage these issues especially in the way you think about them. Helping people learn about themselves and grow is my passion. Discarding old patterns of behavior/thinking and developing new one's will be the primary goal while working together. I find this to be very exciting and somewhat challenging but definitely worth all the effort in the end.
If you have found my page, you or someone you know are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger or some other stressor. Therapy is useful as it will help you develop new ways to manage these issues especially in the way you think about them. Helping people learn about themselves and grow is my passion. Discarding old patterns of behavior/thinking and developing new one's will be the primary goal while working together. I find this to be very exciting and somewhat challenging but definitely worth all the effort in the end.
(785) 859-4330 View (785) 859-4330
Photo of Angelica Pearce, Marriage & Family Therapist in Topeka, KS
Angelica Pearce
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
I understand that life is not always simple, and comes with many layers. I create the space to safely process, without judgement, and empower people to live the life that they are meant to live. I work with individuals and couples. I have experience working with trauma, healing from abusive relationships, depression, anxiety, and life transitions, as well as parinatel mood disorders. I also love working with couples in a variety of stages, from building foundations to start a healthy relationship, reconnecting, and healing from infidelity.
I understand that life is not always simple, and comes with many layers. I create the space to safely process, without judgement, and empower people to live the life that they are meant to live. I work with individuals and couples. I have experience working with trauma, healing from abusive relationships, depression, anxiety, and life transitions, as well as parinatel mood disorders. I also love working with couples in a variety of stages, from building foundations to start a healthy relationship, reconnecting, and healing from infidelity.
(785) 264-6163 View (785) 264-6163
Photo of Joy Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Joy Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Currently Not Accepting New Clients. "No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear" -C.S. Lewis. Hello, I am here to help you on your personal grief and loss journey. Having someone you love die, can feel unbearable. I have provided a safe place where your voice is heard. Grieving and mourning can take place. Death of a loved one, loss of a career and loss of relationships can all leave you feeling hopeless and alone. I will sit with you in this darkness. I will hold hope for you. I have witnessed personally and professionally that there is light in all this darkness.
Currently Not Accepting New Clients. "No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear" -C.S. Lewis. Hello, I am here to help you on your personal grief and loss journey. Having someone you love die, can feel unbearable. I have provided a safe place where your voice is heard. Grieving and mourning can take place. Death of a loved one, loss of a career and loss of relationships can all leave you feeling hopeless and alone. I will sit with you in this darkness. I will hold hope for you. I have witnessed personally and professionally that there is light in all this darkness.
(785) 371-1327 View (785) 371-1327
Photo of Trevonne Wilcox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Trevonne Wilcox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
An emotion lasts for ninety seconds. I have aided individuals and families with owning and claiming their narratives for over 10 years. Having to reverse or defend an opinion that others have placed on you impedes our daily functioning, work life, schooling, family dynamics, and social life. In my practice I want to give you motivation and tools to maximize your life. In order to navigate this process we will discuss how you can practice mindfulness to customize your healing journey. No one should be alone as they go through constructing their life’s narrative. I would like to help you begin your mental health journey.
An emotion lasts for ninety seconds. I have aided individuals and families with owning and claiming their narratives for over 10 years. Having to reverse or defend an opinion that others have placed on you impedes our daily functioning, work life, schooling, family dynamics, and social life. In my practice I want to give you motivation and tools to maximize your life. In order to navigate this process we will discuss how you can practice mindfulness to customize your healing journey. No one should be alone as they go through constructing their life’s narrative. I would like to help you begin your mental health journey.
(785) 429-4799 View (785) 429-4799
Photo of David Amer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
David Amer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I help teens going through a hard time feel understood and more hopeful. Are the teenage years bumpier than you thought? Is it a struggle to connect with people, and feel like you belong? Are there things you want to do, or "should" do, but it's tough when your mind is loud with worry and doubt? You’re tired of beating yourself up. Together, you and I can figure it out. Our therapy gives us a calm, safe space to focus on you and your story. We get the chance to discover what is truly awesome about you. Working together, you can feel more calm, confidence, connection, and joy.
I help teens going through a hard time feel understood and more hopeful. Are the teenage years bumpier than you thought? Is it a struggle to connect with people, and feel like you belong? Are there things you want to do, or "should" do, but it's tough when your mind is loud with worry and doubt? You’re tired of beating yourself up. Together, you and I can figure it out. Our therapy gives us a calm, safe space to focus on you and your story. We get the chance to discover what is truly awesome about you. Working together, you can feel more calm, confidence, connection, and joy.
(785) 369-1329 View (785) 369-1329
Photo of Bryan Beaty, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Bryan Beaty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
(785) 264-5850 View (785) 264-5850
Photo of Karen D Kriger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Topeka, KS
Karen D Kriger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
Not accepting new clients
You are meant to thrive. I believe that every life circumstance carries the potential to grow our health, resilience & sense of Self. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside to help & hope for us as we heal & make sense of our stories. Helping couples, families, adults & children pursue this healing & transformation is a privilege.
You are meant to thrive. I believe that every life circumstance carries the potential to grow our health, resilience & sense of Self. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside to help & hope for us as we heal & make sense of our stories. Helping couples, families, adults & children pursue this healing & transformation is a privilege.
(785) 450-1426 View (785) 450-1426
Photo of Kathi Hachmeister, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Kathi Hachmeister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Work stress & conflict in relationships are common issues people struggle with, often leading to feeling overwhelmed & stressed out. If you would like to learn effective ways to deal with stressful situations, I would like to help. I am available to assist you in seeking new ways to cope with difficult situations & uncomfortable feelings to improve your quality of life. I enjoy working with all ages. I have experience in a school setting, mental health center & social service agencies. if you're ready for change, I provide guidance in an environment of support & encouragement. Call or text for an appointment.
Work stress & conflict in relationships are common issues people struggle with, often leading to feeling overwhelmed & stressed out. If you would like to learn effective ways to deal with stressful situations, I would like to help. I am available to assist you in seeking new ways to cope with difficult situations & uncomfortable feelings to improve your quality of life. I enjoy working with all ages. I have experience in a school setting, mental health center & social service agencies. if you're ready for change, I provide guidance in an environment of support & encouragement. Call or text for an appointment.
(785) 465-4830 View (785) 465-4830
Photo of Jessica Poell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jessica Poell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Elizabeth Kubler Ross said, “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.” While you may not have chosen the difficulties & struggles you’ve faced,& it may feel that there is no way through, I believe you have the strength & ability to overcome all obstacles in your path. It may seem impossible or overwhelming, & the peace & calm you so desperately desire might appear unattainable, I believe you already have all the tools necessary to become that beautiful person you envision for yourself & I would like to help you.
Elizabeth Kubler Ross said, “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.” While you may not have chosen the difficulties & struggles you’ve faced,& it may feel that there is no way through, I believe you have the strength & ability to overcome all obstacles in your path. It may seem impossible or overwhelming, & the peace & calm you so desperately desire might appear unattainable, I believe you already have all the tools necessary to become that beautiful person you envision for yourself & I would like to help you.
(316) 974-1274 View (316) 974-1274
Photo of Wendy Bair-Loehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Wendy Bair-Loehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. Wendy has 20+ years experience in mental health. A graduate of Grinnell College and KU School of Social Welfare, Wendy has vast experience working in both rural and metropolitan communities. Having worked with individuals with chronic mental illness, eating disorders, addiction and trauma at Menninger, Wendy went on to broaden her skills to include extensive work in anxiety, depressive and behavioral disorders in Kansas City. There, she also provided treatment for people who had experienced workplace violence and airline accidents.
PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. Wendy has 20+ years experience in mental health. A graduate of Grinnell College and KU School of Social Welfare, Wendy has vast experience working in both rural and metropolitan communities. Having worked with individuals with chronic mental illness, eating disorders, addiction and trauma at Menninger, Wendy went on to broaden her skills to include extensive work in anxiety, depressive and behavioral disorders in Kansas City. There, she also provided treatment for people who had experienced workplace violence and airline accidents.
(785) 325-4256 View (785) 325-4256
Photo of Thomas S Parish in Topeka, KS
Thomas S Parish
PhD, CTRTC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Need some help dealing with the stresses, frustrations and challenges that you are facing? Are there family, workplace, or relationship issues that need to be addressed? With a focus on finding effective alternatives, my clients learn how to move forward with greater confidence. experiencing greater happiness and fulfillment.
Need some help dealing with the stresses, frustrations and challenges that you are facing? Are there family, workplace, or relationship issues that need to be addressed? With a focus on finding effective alternatives, my clients learn how to move forward with greater confidence. experiencing greater happiness and fulfillment.
(785) 509-7730 View (785) 509-7730

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Topeka, KS

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Topeka, KS who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Stress
73% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
56% Medicaid
54% Aetna

How Therapists in Topeka, KS see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Topeka?

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.