Therapists in Port Orange, FL

Photo of Michele Houseworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Michele Houseworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127
My clients are as eclectic as my treatment approach. No two people are alike. As a result, treatment goals vary with each individual person. My clients are not in crisis. They are high functioning individuals (ages 4-104) that are experiencing some sort of stressor in their lives. Life is full of unpredictable events including but not limited to separation, divorce, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, loss of any kind, career changes, family issues, depression, changes in children's behavior, parenting, single parenting, recent diagnosis of mental health/ health condition, anxiety, fear, hurt and depression.
My clients are as eclectic as my treatment approach. No two people are alike. As a result, treatment goals vary with each individual person. My clients are not in crisis. They are high functioning individuals (ages 4-104) that are experiencing some sort of stressor in their lives. Life is full of unpredictable events including but not limited to separation, divorce, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, loss of any kind, career changes, family issues, depression, changes in children's behavior, parenting, single parenting, recent diagnosis of mental health/ health condition, anxiety, fear, hurt and depression.
(386) 270-3810 View (386) 270-3810
EduPsy Solutions, LLC
School Psychologist, EdS, NCSP
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32128
Does your child suffer from learning difficulties? Do you suspect a disability? Does your child need to be challenged? Do you suspect your child is gifted? As a licensed and nationally certified school psychologist, EduPsy Solutions can conduct the evaluations you need for consideration of Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services in your school. We can do these evaluations face to face locally or virtually from anywhere in Florida! We can also provide answers to all your school and/or ESE quesitons (consultation), trainings, and homeschool evaluations/portfolio reviews.
Does your child suffer from learning difficulties? Do you suspect a disability? Does your child need to be challenged? Do you suspect your child is gifted? As a licensed and nationally certified school psychologist, EduPsy Solutions can conduct the evaluations you need for consideration of Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services in your school. We can do these evaluations face to face locally or virtually from anywhere in Florida! We can also provide answers to all your school and/or ESE quesitons (consultation), trainings, and homeschool evaluations/portfolio reviews.
(386) 388-6081 View (386) 388-6081
Photo of Spruce Creek Mental Health Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Spruce Creek Mental Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127
Offices of: Shannon M. King, LCSW. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals in many different settings and capacities, and have experience working with all ages, couples, families, and groups. I've helped numerous people work through their unique situations and circumstances. I realize, for all of us, there will be challenges and difficult periods in our lives; but that we also have a wonderful capacity to regain control and work through these challenges.
Offices of: Shannon M. King, LCSW. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals in many different settings and capacities, and have experience working with all ages, couples, families, and groups. I've helped numerous people work through their unique situations and circumstances. I realize, for all of us, there will be challenges and difficult periods in our lives; but that we also have a wonderful capacity to regain control and work through these challenges.
(386) 272-7325 View (386) 272-7325
Photo of Vernicia John-Lewis, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Port Orange, FL
Vernicia John-Lewis
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32129
Accepting New Clients! Greetings! I'm Vernicia John-Lewis, RMHCI. I am excited to meet and embark on this journey with you. Congratulations in advance on taking this huge step in your healing process. I believe in working in partnership with my clients to maximize their current strengths, help sort their challenges and achieve their goals, while understanding that the clients are the experts of their lives. When you experience trauma or life stressors, it is normal to believe that your life goes downhill or to believe as if everything is falling apart rapidly.
Accepting New Clients! Greetings! I'm Vernicia John-Lewis, RMHCI. I am excited to meet and embark on this journey with you. Congratulations in advance on taking this huge step in your healing process. I believe in working in partnership with my clients to maximize their current strengths, help sort their challenges and achieve their goals, while understanding that the clients are the experts of their lives. When you experience trauma or life stressors, it is normal to believe that your life goes downhill or to believe as if everything is falling apart rapidly.
(386) 384-9609 View (386) 384-9609
Photo of Dr. Seneka R Gainer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Dr. Seneka R Gainer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32129  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where your journey matters. Life's complexities can cast shadows on relationships, family, and career. Whether it's the weight of depression, anxiety, or the pull of uncertainties, know you're not alone. I'm here to guide you through these challenges. Embracing a holistic approach, I'll help you unearth strengths, foster resilience, and rekindle hope. Together, we'll navigate the intricacies of your experiences, paving the way for positive transformation.
Welcome to a space where your journey matters. Life's complexities can cast shadows on relationships, family, and career. Whether it's the weight of depression, anxiety, or the pull of uncertainties, know you're not alone. I'm here to guide you through these challenges. Embracing a holistic approach, I'll help you unearth strengths, foster resilience, and rekindle hope. Together, we'll navigate the intricacies of your experiences, paving the way for positive transformation.
(386) 260-2805 View (386) 260-2805
Photo of Laura Stearns in Port Orange, FL
Laura Stearns
MA, Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32128
Life coaching is not psychotherapy, nor is it a substitute for psychotherapy. As a coach, I enjoy working with clients who have vision and are looking for someone to help them set attainable goals. I believe that it is important to celebrate the steps you conquer along the way! I have developed skills which are supportive and encouraging for leaders, business owners, and individuals. My goal is to work with people who feel stuck and want to follow their calling. I want to support them in navigating their journey to accomplish their goals! Your dreams do not have to stay tucked away as wishes- they can become a reality!
Life coaching is not psychotherapy, nor is it a substitute for psychotherapy. As a coach, I enjoy working with clients who have vision and are looking for someone to help them set attainable goals. I believe that it is important to celebrate the steps you conquer along the way! I have developed skills which are supportive and encouraging for leaders, business owners, and individuals. My goal is to work with people who feel stuck and want to follow their calling. I want to support them in navigating their journey to accomplish their goals! Your dreams do not have to stay tucked away as wishes- they can become a reality!
(386) 753-4231 View (386) 753-4231
Photo of Kelly Dowd-Nighswonger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Kelly Dowd-Nighswonger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32128  (Online Only)
As a young adult you have a lot of worries: sorting out career, relationships, setting up your future. All of that alone can be stress enough, but add depression, anxiety, and the psychological struggles that come with that stress it gets even worse. While your struggles are very real, it can be difficult to get anyone to take them seriously. People your age don't have any more insight than you do about it, and older adults don't remember how frightening these struggles can be. They don't remember feeling like you're behind on the imaginary timeline, or feeling less accomplished than you should be. You aren't alone.
As a young adult you have a lot of worries: sorting out career, relationships, setting up your future. All of that alone can be stress enough, but add depression, anxiety, and the psychological struggles that come with that stress it gets even worse. While your struggles are very real, it can be difficult to get anyone to take them seriously. People your age don't have any more insight than you do about it, and older adults don't remember how frightening these struggles can be. They don't remember feeling like you're behind on the imaginary timeline, or feeling less accomplished than you should be. You aren't alone.
(954) 231-1759 View (954) 231-1759
Photo of Kianna Spivey, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Port Orange, FL
Kianna Spivey
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32127
Hi there, I'm Kianna, a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI) in the state of Florida. I want to congratulate you on taking a bold step towards your healing process! I have a passion for helping others, being an active listener, providing a safe space, and assisting others in difficult times.
Hi there, I'm Kianna, a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI) in the state of Florida. I want to congratulate you on taking a bold step towards your healing process! I have a passion for helping others, being an active listener, providing a safe space, and assisting others in difficult times.
(386) 643-0108 View (386) 643-0108
Photo of Chrysalis Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor in Port Orange, FL
Chrysalis Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127
Not accepting new clients
Are you depressed? Are you anxious? Suffering a breakup, or job loss, family conflict? Everyone needs an ear to talk to sometimes, and it's so helpful to have a nonjudgmental person to vent to. So often, our lives are filled with communication issues, addiction or relationship problems and we don't know where to turn. Sometimes one's angst has been there since childhood, and many know they need help, but just need guidance on how to begin. Don't deny yourself the chance to be empowered!
Are you depressed? Are you anxious? Suffering a breakup, or job loss, family conflict? Everyone needs an ear to talk to sometimes, and it's so helpful to have a nonjudgmental person to vent to. So often, our lives are filled with communication issues, addiction or relationship problems and we don't know where to turn. Sometimes one's angst has been there since childhood, and many know they need help, but just need guidance on how to begin. Don't deny yourself the chance to be empowered!
(386) 866-2988 View (386) 866-2988
Photo of Lakeside Counseling and Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Lakeside Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129
You may be at a point in your life where the problems are easy to see but the solutions are hard to find. If so, we are ready to help. We can help you feel better, happier and clearer quickly. Our team of 13 highly skilled therapists have many years of experience assisting people when they just don't know where else to turn. We serve ages 5-105, for individual, couples or family counseling. We are passionate about helping you create happiness and peace in your life, and we will focus on your goals and help you achieve them.
You may be at a point in your life where the problems are easy to see but the solutions are hard to find. If so, we are ready to help. We can help you feel better, happier and clearer quickly. Our team of 13 highly skilled therapists have many years of experience assisting people when they just don't know where else to turn. We serve ages 5-105, for individual, couples or family counseling. We are passionate about helping you create happiness and peace in your life, and we will focus on your goals and help you achieve them.
(386) 200-4271 View (386) 200-4271
Photo of Rebecca Weidler- Integrated Journey Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Port Orange, FL
Rebecca Weidler- Integrated Journey Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LBS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129  (Online Only)
Facing & accepting experiences in life is a process that is often challenging & requires time & an emotional & mental investment. It is also an empowering journey that promises healing and growth to those who choose to engage in an evidence-based, facilitated approach from the effects of trauma &/or developmental impairments. I combine elements of social skills training, psychoeducational & psychodynamic techniques, & emphasize support.
Facing & accepting experiences in life is a process that is often challenging & requires time & an emotional & mental investment. It is also an empowering journey that promises healing and growth to those who choose to engage in an evidence-based, facilitated approach from the effects of trauma &/or developmental impairments. I combine elements of social skills training, psychoeducational & psychodynamic techniques, & emphasize support.
(386) 272-7931 View (386) 272-7931
Photo of Edward Merkle, Counselor in Port Orange, FL
Edward Merkle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127
Therapy is about where you are and where you want to go. It is about acceptance of your values and the goals that you seek. Therapy doesn't have to be a long painful journey. Resolving conflicts, getting over issues, or addressing unwanted feelings should be a positive quest. I believe in short term therapy which has been successful with my Adult and Adolescent clients who experience depression, anxiety, trauma and other symptoms. Life Coaching-Therapy can help uncovering the patterns of feelings, thoughts or patterns of behavior that have interfered with our goals.
Therapy is about where you are and where you want to go. It is about acceptance of your values and the goals that you seek. Therapy doesn't have to be a long painful journey. Resolving conflicts, getting over issues, or addressing unwanted feelings should be a positive quest. I believe in short term therapy which has been successful with my Adult and Adolescent clients who experience depression, anxiety, trauma and other symptoms. Life Coaching-Therapy can help uncovering the patterns of feelings, thoughts or patterns of behavior that have interfered with our goals.
(386) 261-1596 View (386) 261-1596
Photo of Andrea Beaudoin, Counselor in Port Orange, FL
Andrea Beaudoin
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129
I am passionate about working to increase self-esteem, change the negative voices, and heal the past. We can discover ways to support yourself better and create happiness. Are you open to using less traditional forms of therapy to attain your goals? I work with you to find your happiness, joy and excitement again. I use a holistic approach. I help you listen to your body and emotions to find out what you need. I work intuitively in addition to the modalities I trained with. We will work on changing limiting beliefs and creating confidence so you can create the life you want. I enjoy empowering women to live your best life.
I am passionate about working to increase self-esteem, change the negative voices, and heal the past. We can discover ways to support yourself better and create happiness. Are you open to using less traditional forms of therapy to attain your goals? I work with you to find your happiness, joy and excitement again. I use a holistic approach. I help you listen to your body and emotions to find out what you need. I work intuitively in addition to the modalities I trained with. We will work on changing limiting beliefs and creating confidence so you can create the life you want. I enjoy empowering women to live your best life.
(386) 388-7136 View (386) 388-7136
Photo of Gordon G Greenhalgh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Gordon G Greenhalgh
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127
I have been treating individuals,couples and families for over 25yrs. I work specifically with troubled teens, difficult marriages or relationships as well as painful issues such as depression, anxiety,anger,abuse,codependency,OCD,dissociative problems,ADHD,PTSD and spiritual confusion. My approach is very positive, affirming and designed to address the individuals personality accepting them where they are, with the goal of achieving what they desire. I use a combination of cognitive restructuring,behavioral changes, emotional healing and spiritual renewal if one so desires. I am able to connect well with most of my clients helping them feel comfortable.
I have been treating individuals,couples and families for over 25yrs. I work specifically with troubled teens, difficult marriages or relationships as well as painful issues such as depression, anxiety,anger,abuse,codependency,OCD,dissociative problems,ADHD,PTSD and spiritual confusion. My approach is very positive, affirming and designed to address the individuals personality accepting them where they are, with the goal of achieving what they desire. I use a combination of cognitive restructuring,behavioral changes, emotional healing and spiritual renewal if one so desires. I am able to connect well with most of my clients helping them feel comfortable.
(386) 951-6544 View (386) 951-6544
Photo of Nadine Heusner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Nadine Heusner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32128  (Online Only)
Each day is a new opportunity for change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker my mission is to strengthen the individual and/or family by drawing on natural resources that exist both internally and externally; with the ultimate goal to develop emotionally-well and empowered individuals. Through the therapeutic process, I will assist you in developing clarity of how your past experiences have affected you, and work towards the understanding that they do not define you.
Each day is a new opportunity for change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker my mission is to strengthen the individual and/or family by drawing on natural resources that exist both internally and externally; with the ultimate goal to develop emotionally-well and empowered individuals. Through the therapeutic process, I will assist you in developing clarity of how your past experiences have affected you, and work towards the understanding that they do not define you.
(386) 277-1045 View (386) 277-1045
Photo of Jessica Bode Gibson, Counselor in Port Orange, FL
Jessica Bode Gibson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32127
I specialize in working with a wide population of people from children into latter life. I do my best to create a safe atmosphere for clients to process their pain and work through problems. I am motivated by compassion and love for people as I work with everyday life concerns, behavioral issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, life skills, complicated relationships, grief, couples, spiritual concerns, and Christian faith. Ultimately, I seek to help people find true inner healing instead of just treatment.
I specialize in working with a wide population of people from children into latter life. I do my best to create a safe atmosphere for clients to process their pain and work through problems. I am motivated by compassion and love for people as I work with everyday life concerns, behavioral issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, life skills, complicated relationships, grief, couples, spiritual concerns, and Christian faith. Ultimately, I seek to help people find true inner healing instead of just treatment.
(386) 237-6142 View (386) 237-6142
Photo of David Shoots Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
David Shoots Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DDiv, CPT, IBCT, FFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32127
Welcome to my page! I am David Shoots, an LCSW, DDiv and a Qualified Supervisor for MHC and CSW. I have spent the past 25 years working with Trauma, anxiety, self esteem and Veterans. I have a deep commitment in working with families and couples. I am committed to providing my clients the highest quality of care using best practices to impact those suffering from severe emotional issues, hopelessness, anxiety, depression and isolation. I am nationally trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Functional Family Therapy (FFT) and Integrative Behavioral Couple's Therapy (IBCT).
Welcome to my page! I am David Shoots, an LCSW, DDiv and a Qualified Supervisor for MHC and CSW. I have spent the past 25 years working with Trauma, anxiety, self esteem and Veterans. I have a deep commitment in working with families and couples. I am committed to providing my clients the highest quality of care using best practices to impact those suffering from severe emotional issues, hopelessness, anxiety, depression and isolation. I am nationally trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Functional Family Therapy (FFT) and Integrative Behavioral Couple's Therapy (IBCT).
(386) 401-5121 View (386) 401-5121
Photo of Ellan Mayfield, Counselor in Port Orange, FL
Ellan Mayfield
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32127
A focus on helping those with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, complicated relationships, grief, emotional issues, hopelessness, and isolation.
A focus on helping those with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, complicated relationships, grief, emotional issues, hopelessness, and isolation.
(386) 267-8068 View (386) 267-8068
Photo of Marilyn DeLuera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Orange, FL
Marilyn DeLuera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127
Every day, a million miracles begin at sunrise! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker. My preferred areas of therapy are: (1) Childhood trauma, PTSD and Relationships. (2) Co-Dependence, Independence & Self Esteem, (3) Senior issues, Life Integration & Ending Thoughts. Life patterns and behavior are formed in the early months and years of life. We can’t go back and change the beginning, but we CAN change the direction we are going now if we choose. Change IS possible!
Every day, a million miracles begin at sunrise! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker. My preferred areas of therapy are: (1) Childhood trauma, PTSD and Relationships. (2) Co-Dependence, Independence & Self Esteem, (3) Senior issues, Life Integration & Ending Thoughts. Life patterns and behavior are formed in the early months and years of life. We can’t go back and change the beginning, but we CAN change the direction we are going now if we choose. Change IS possible!
(386) 855-8973 View (386) 855-8973
Photo of Calvin H Gittner, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Port Orange, FL
Calvin H Gittner
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, RMHI, DMin
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129
I seek to view all my clients through a "Family Systems" lens; helping them to better understand their unique story and context. Focusing on issues of communication, reconciliation, healing after affairs and trauma within marriages, intimate relationships, families, children, generation adjustments and life transitions.
I seek to view all my clients through a "Family Systems" lens; helping them to better understand their unique story and context. Focusing on issues of communication, reconciliation, healing after affairs and trauma within marriages, intimate relationships, families, children, generation adjustments and life transitions.
(386) 666-3621 View (386) 666-3621

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Port Orange, FL

70+

Average cost per session

$110

Therapists in Port Orange, FL who prioritize treating:

88% Relationship Issues
88% Depression
88% Anxiety
83% Coping Skills
81% Self Esteem
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Port Orange, FL see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Port Orange?

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.