Therapists in Cincinnati, OH

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Photo of Paula Alberto Emdr Marriage Trauma, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Paula Alberto Emdr Marriage Trauma
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, EMDR, Trauma
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45240
Are you tired of struggling? Do you need a JUMPSTART TO HEALING (tm)? I am now offering full-day, intensive therapy sessions to help you begin to heal more quickly. Jump Start sessions can really help with unresolved relational pain, anger, anxiety or trauma that is affecting your self esteem, your relationships, and your work. I can work with couples or individuals for an entire day so that you can do about two months worth of therapy sessions in a single day. This is appropriate for couples or individuals and is not a workshop, inpatient therapy, or group therapy.
Are you tired of struggling? Do you need a JUMPSTART TO HEALING (tm)? I am now offering full-day, intensive therapy sessions to help you begin to heal more quickly. Jump Start sessions can really help with unresolved relational pain, anger, anxiety or trauma that is affecting your self esteem, your relationships, and your work. I can work with couples or individuals for an entire day so that you can do about two months worth of therapy sessions in a single day. This is appropriate for couples or individuals and is not a workshop, inpatient therapy, or group therapy.
(513) 592-3892 x109 View (513) 592-3892 x109
Photo of Danielle Crotty, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Danielle Crotty
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208
As a sex therapist and marriage and family therapist I recognize the struggles clients bring in with them. Whether they’re struggling to talk about sex, challenges with desire, problems about being on the same page sexually, erectile dysfunction, sexual pain, infidelity, LGBTQIA concerns and even alcohol and drug addiction. My goal is to help make our sessions feel comfortable and safe to be able to explore what is needed.
As a sex therapist and marriage and family therapist I recognize the struggles clients bring in with them. Whether they’re struggling to talk about sex, challenges with desire, problems about being on the same page sexually, erectile dysfunction, sexual pain, infidelity, LGBTQIA concerns and even alcohol and drug addiction. My goal is to help make our sessions feel comfortable and safe to be able to explore what is needed.
(513) 813-2091 View (513) 813-2091
Photo of Kairos Christian Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Kairos Christian Counseling, LLC
Counselor, PCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45226
I am a born again, spirit filled professional mental health and drug and alcohol counselor. I rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance during sessions and counsel from a biblical perspective.
I am a born again, spirit filled professional mental health and drug and alcohol counselor. I rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance during sessions and counsel from a biblical perspective.
(513) 802-9215 View (513) 802-9215
Photo of Elizabeth K. Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Elizabeth K. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45247  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in a problem or situation that seems to have no resolution? Do you find that the same anxious thoughts are playing in your head on repeat? You are not alone! If you want to experience real change in your life, but just don't know where to start, I would love to help! We can work together to develop your own unique goals and initiate real change. When we meet, you can be assured of a space that is non-judgmental and safe.
Do you feel stuck in a problem or situation that seems to have no resolution? Do you find that the same anxious thoughts are playing in your head on repeat? You are not alone! If you want to experience real change in your life, but just don't know where to start, I would love to help! We can work together to develop your own unique goals and initiate real change. When we meet, you can be assured of a space that is non-judgmental and safe.
(513) 756-8732 View (513) 756-8732
Photo of Emily Bennings, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Emily Bennings
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45223
Hi. You have tried so hard! You've gone to therapy, maybe even for years, but nothing has really worked. You’ve tried workbooks, followed instagram accounts, all of it. I’m at my best as a therapist when working with clients who have found traditional talk therapy helpful at first, but eventually, ineffective. Therapists are not magic, but you have the medicine inside you to heal yourself, from trauma, broken relationships, all of it. I love working with helpers, including fellow therapists, and folks who are ready to be their own healers.
Hi. You have tried so hard! You've gone to therapy, maybe even for years, but nothing has really worked. You’ve tried workbooks, followed instagram accounts, all of it. I’m at my best as a therapist when working with clients who have found traditional talk therapy helpful at first, but eventually, ineffective. Therapists are not magic, but you have the medicine inside you to heal yourself, from trauma, broken relationships, all of it. I love working with helpers, including fellow therapists, and folks who are ready to be their own healers.
(513) 855-6434 View (513) 855-6434
Photo of Iris A Pfeffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Iris A Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45240  (Online Only)
A therapist with 40 years of experience, you will receive therapy based on extensive experience and knowledge. A practical professional, you can expect sessions with empathy and compassion coupled with encouragement and support. Adolescents receive the best in DBT individual and group therapy. Senior groups are especially successful in providing a socialization and treatment experience. I’m addition, patience, kindness is joined with effectiveness to provide a competent and warm therapy tmosphere.
A therapist with 40 years of experience, you will receive therapy based on extensive experience and knowledge. A practical professional, you can expect sessions with empathy and compassion coupled with encouragement and support. Adolescents receive the best in DBT individual and group therapy. Senior groups are especially successful in providing a socialization and treatment experience. I’m addition, patience, kindness is joined with effectiveness to provide a competent and warm therapy tmosphere.
(513) 790-4064 View (513) 790-4064
Photo of MJ Shooner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
MJ Shooner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CCATP, CCFP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I have a heart for todays couples, families and children who are hurting. My passion is for that child or couple who have lost hope & unsure of where to turn. In a twisted, confusing relationship? Is untreated family of origin pain beginning to impact loved ones? As a Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (MFT), I've provided relief for many families. Evidence based, resiliency-focused, trauma-informed and FUN! It's how we learn. Bring me your ‘out of control,’ ‘unfixable’ & ‘unbearable.’ We will walk out from the darkness together. High Conflict Couple, ASD, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger, Oppositional or just lost, don't sit in it alone!
I have a heart for todays couples, families and children who are hurting. My passion is for that child or couple who have lost hope & unsure of where to turn. In a twisted, confusing relationship? Is untreated family of origin pain beginning to impact loved ones? As a Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (MFT), I've provided relief for many families. Evidence based, resiliency-focused, trauma-informed and FUN! It's how we learn. Bring me your ‘out of control,’ ‘unfixable’ & ‘unbearable.’ We will walk out from the darkness together. High Conflict Couple, ASD, Anxiety, ADHD, Anger, Oppositional or just lost, don't sit in it alone!
(513) 912-3588 View (513) 912-3588
Photo of Penelope Chavez-Frigon Psy.d Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Cincinnati, OH
Penelope Chavez-Frigon Psy.d Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45244
I provide affirming psychological evaluations help people better understand their needs (Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergence) I would like to help people better understand themselves and be a happier and mental healthier individual. Have you been told by others that you can't be autistic, but something still feels off? Do you mask a lot and feel completely exhausted or overwhelmed in social situations? Please reach out to me!
I provide affirming psychological evaluations help people better understand their needs (Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergence) I would like to help people better understand themselves and be a happier and mental healthier individual. Have you been told by others that you can't be autistic, but something still feels off? Do you mask a lot and feel completely exhausted or overwhelmed in social situations? Please reach out to me!
(513) 988-3651 View (513) 988-3651
Photo of Emma Schmidt, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Emma Schmidt
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CST, CCSAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Emma Schmidt & Associates, Sex + Relationship Therapy restores relationships for individuals and couples who are facing a big challenge-maybe they're even at the end of their rope, struggling with their sex life. We understand that sex and relationship issues can be embarrassing and awkward, but we remove the shame and stigma from the situation and create an environment of openness and positivity. Our clients are seeking a stronger bond with their partners; we invite them to share their struggles and worries-and to come as they are.
Emma Schmidt & Associates, Sex + Relationship Therapy restores relationships for individuals and couples who are facing a big challenge-maybe they're even at the end of their rope, struggling with their sex life. We understand that sex and relationship issues can be embarrassing and awkward, but we remove the shame and stigma from the situation and create an environment of openness and positivity. Our clients are seeking a stronger bond with their partners; we invite them to share their struggles and worries-and to come as they are.
(513) 718-4441 View (513) 718-4441
Photo of Your Time Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Your Time Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45215  (Online Only)
I’ve often likened “good therapy” to a “good massage”. You enter feeling tense and uncertain with the hope that you'll leave feeling more centered and able to take on what’s next. At times, you may need a gentle and compassionate approach; other times, you may need deeper work to really start the healing process. My primary goal in our work together is to utilize my 21 years of direct clinical experience and 10 years of experience as a clinical supervisor to improve your overall life satisfaction.
I’ve often likened “good therapy” to a “good massage”. You enter feeling tense and uncertain with the hope that you'll leave feeling more centered and able to take on what’s next. At times, you may need a gentle and compassionate approach; other times, you may need deeper work to really start the healing process. My primary goal in our work together is to utilize my 21 years of direct clinical experience and 10 years of experience as a clinical supervisor to improve your overall life satisfaction.
(513) 450-6646 View (513) 450-6646
Photo of Dianne S Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Dianne S Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45224
Help starts here! I provide therapy services to individuals, groups and couples with problems related to health, mental health and career. Life crises, depression, grief and substance abuse can all get better faster with professional help. I provide coaching and consulting to executives, managers and professionals in acheiving career goals and work/life balance. I provide clinical supervision to social work and counseling professionals. As an educator, I teach classes and facilitate workshops for all levels of employees, as well as university students.
Help starts here! I provide therapy services to individuals, groups and couples with problems related to health, mental health and career. Life crises, depression, grief and substance abuse can all get better faster with professional help. I provide coaching and consulting to executives, managers and professionals in acheiving career goals and work/life balance. I provide clinical supervision to social work and counseling professionals. As an educator, I teach classes and facilitate workshops for all levels of employees, as well as university students.
(513) 327-2183 View (513) 327-2183
Photo of Jan Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Jan Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202  (Online Only)
I'm glad you are here, it is often difficult to take that first step. My philosophy is that in an instant, life can change - bringing about shock, pain and interruption to our day-to-day routine. Even a seemingly positive change can cause feelings of overwhelm, loneliness and a sense of feeling lost. Help is needed to deal with these new feelings. As a result, I will work collaboratively in telehealth sessions with you to restore or bring about serenity.
I'm glad you are here, it is often difficult to take that first step. My philosophy is that in an instant, life can change - bringing about shock, pain and interruption to our day-to-day routine. Even a seemingly positive change can cause feelings of overwhelm, loneliness and a sense of feeling lost. Help is needed to deal with these new feelings. As a result, I will work collaboratively in telehealth sessions with you to restore or bring about serenity.
(513) 450-9600 View (513) 450-9600
Photo of Jenna Reynolds, Art Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Jenna Reynolds
Art Therapist, IMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Life can be hard and overwhelming. You might know what you need to do, but not be able to put the pieces together. Or you might not have any idea how to change your current cycles or patterns. I can help. My approach is friendly and conversational. I help clients to build insight, awareness, and coping skills. We work to use those skills to manage life stressors. past and present, more effectively. I have many tools and can focus treatment based on your individual needs. If one approach does not work, we will try another until finding something that helps.
Life can be hard and overwhelming. You might know what you need to do, but not be able to put the pieces together. Or you might not have any idea how to change your current cycles or patterns. I can help. My approach is friendly and conversational. I help clients to build insight, awareness, and coping skills. We work to use those skills to manage life stressors. past and present, more effectively. I have many tools and can focus treatment based on your individual needs. If one approach does not work, we will try another until finding something that helps.
(513) 951-8423 View (513) 951-8423
Photo of Rosalyn Y Brown Beatty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Rosalyn Y Brown Beatty
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Not accepting new clients
I work with the strong ones. The ones who have been strong too long. The ones who are feeling the emotional fatigue of trying to make everything happen for everyone else, but some how lost track of focusing on themselves and their own happiness/ mental wellness. I have the privilege to work with women, men and teenagers. Inside my office walls I provide a haven and place to talk to candidately about current and pass stressors and find new strategies to bring mental wellness. We discuss current behaviors, passed traumas and coping mechanisms that no longer are helpful and find new ways to live a more fulfilling life.
I work with the strong ones. The ones who have been strong too long. The ones who are feeling the emotional fatigue of trying to make everything happen for everyone else, but some how lost track of focusing on themselves and their own happiness/ mental wellness. I have the privilege to work with women, men and teenagers. Inside my office walls I provide a haven and place to talk to candidately about current and pass stressors and find new strategies to bring mental wellness. We discuss current behaviors, passed traumas and coping mechanisms that no longer are helpful and find new ways to live a more fulfilling life.
(513) 854-1822 View (513) 854-1822
Photo of Colleen Joyce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Colleen Joyce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208  (Online Only)
Colleen Joyce is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who believes in building a safe, trusting environment where people can express themselves, grow, and make positive changes in their lives. Dealing with difficult emotions, interpersonal conflicts, and facing life’s challenges can be stressful but can also be a time for growth and healing. Colleen will provide you the space to process and focus on you and your goals.
Colleen Joyce is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who believes in building a safe, trusting environment where people can express themselves, grow, and make positive changes in their lives. Dealing with difficult emotions, interpersonal conflicts, and facing life’s challenges can be stressful but can also be a time for growth and healing. Colleen will provide you the space to process and focus on you and your goals.
(513) 434-6522 View (513) 434-6522
Photo of Carrie Conlon, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Carrie Conlon
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Not accepting new clients
I understand and value that therapy requires your time, money and commitment, so we are going to work together to accomplish your goals. It is my mission to work with you in an effective, solution-focused manner to empower you to manage life’s challenges, stressors, worries and anxieties on your own with the tools and resources we have developed together. My goal for you is to feel like you no longer need therapy.
I understand and value that therapy requires your time, money and commitment, so we are going to work together to accomplish your goals. It is my mission to work with you in an effective, solution-focused manner to empower you to manage life’s challenges, stressors, worries and anxieties on your own with the tools and resources we have developed together. My goal for you is to feel like you no longer need therapy.
(513) 613-4168 View (513) 613-4168
Photo of Mary Signorelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Mary Signorelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45245
I feel very strongly about developing a warm and safe therapeutic relationship with my clients. I have extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, PTSD, trauma, depression and Substance Abuse. I understand that the decision to seek help can be very overwhelming and even scary. I understand this and want you to know that my only goal is to assist you. I made sure that my office space will be cozy and comfortable for you.
I feel very strongly about developing a warm and safe therapeutic relationship with my clients. I have extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, PTSD, trauma, depression and Substance Abuse. I understand that the decision to seek help can be very overwhelming and even scary. I understand this and want you to know that my only goal is to assist you. I made sure that my office space will be cozy and comfortable for you.
(513) 327-7838 View (513) 327-7838
Photo of Katie Kramer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Katie Kramer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45227
What challenges do you face? Everyone has strengths and encounters their own challenges. My passion is to work with adults and children struggling with relationships, behavior, inattention, life transitions, and more. I believe that working with parents is crucial to unite your home and create a healthy space for you and your family. I focus on strengths, build up self-esteem, and validate your emotions in order to successfully resolve the conflict you may be feeling and expressing. We can express our emotions in a multitude of ways. Allow me to help explore what those are.
What challenges do you face? Everyone has strengths and encounters their own challenges. My passion is to work with adults and children struggling with relationships, behavior, inattention, life transitions, and more. I believe that working with parents is crucial to unite your home and create a healthy space for you and your family. I focus on strengths, build up self-esteem, and validate your emotions in order to successfully resolve the conflict you may be feeling and expressing. We can express our emotions in a multitude of ways. Allow me to help explore what those are.
(513) 613-4824 View (513) 613-4824
Photo of Sana Iftikhar, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Sana Iftikhar
Counselor, MA, MEd, PsyD(c), CT
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Hello, my name is Sana! I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients. I believe everyone is unique and I am passionate about helping clients achieve emotional healing and self-growth. I support clients in setting personal goals, identifying strengths, improving resilience and building a positive mindset. My therapeutic services target a wide range of emotional and mental health needs for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I employ an eclectic approach including mindfulness, solution-focused, ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
Hello, my name is Sana! I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients. I believe everyone is unique and I am passionate about helping clients achieve emotional healing and self-growth. I support clients in setting personal goals, identifying strengths, improving resilience and building a positive mindset. My therapeutic services target a wide range of emotional and mental health needs for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I employ an eclectic approach including mindfulness, solution-focused, ACT, CBT, DBT, and ERP.
(513) 805-0601 View (513) 805-0601
Photo of Anna Cummins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Anna Cummins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208  (Online Only)
Anna Settle is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio who has 13 years of experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings that treated individuals suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflict. She is skilled at working with adolescents, emerging adults, and those in middle adulthood. Anna completed her Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice from Ohio University and received her Masters of Education in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College.
Anna Settle is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio who has 13 years of experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings that treated individuals suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflict. She is skilled at working with adolescents, emerging adults, and those in middle adulthood. Anna completed her Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice from Ohio University and received her Masters of Education in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College.
(513) 643-0463 View (513) 643-0463

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cincinnati, OH

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Cincinnati, OH who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
72% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Relationship Issues
66% Coping Skills
62% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Aetna
64% Optum

How Therapists in Cincinnati, OH see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cincinnati?

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.