Photo of Karen G Special, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen G Special
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
I am committed to helping each person integrate their emotional, intellectual and spiritual self. I will help you to look within and reclaim your authenticity. I deal with anxiety and depression, bereavement, issues from childhood and current relationship issues. I seek to guide those folks who are willing to work on their psyche.
I am committed to helping each person integrate their emotional, intellectual and spiritual self. I will help you to look within and reclaim your authenticity. I deal with anxiety and depression, bereavement, issues from childhood and current relationship issues. I seek to guide those folks who are willing to work on their psyche.
(703) 935-1468 x676 View (703) 935-1468 x676
Photo of Sabine F Bergwall, LPC , NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabine F Bergwall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a bicultural and bilingual counselor with significant multicultural counseling experience, my area of expertise is the treatment of adjustment, anxiety, and mood disorders, many of which are trauma-related. At one time or another, we all need help navigating challenges, mobilizing hope, and taking care of ourselves, I always strive to create an atmosphere where you feel at ease to open up and explore your thoughts and emotions. Incorporating genuineness, humor, and a relaxed style into our interactions, I aim to foster an environment of connection where you can begin your journey towards healing, wellness, and growth.
Welcome! As a bicultural and bilingual counselor with significant multicultural counseling experience, my area of expertise is the treatment of adjustment, anxiety, and mood disorders, many of which are trauma-related. At one time or another, we all need help navigating challenges, mobilizing hope, and taking care of ourselves, I always strive to create an atmosphere where you feel at ease to open up and explore your thoughts and emotions. Incorporating genuineness, humor, and a relaxed style into our interactions, I aim to foster an environment of connection where you can begin your journey towards healing, wellness, and growth.
(571) 946-5640 View (571) 946-5640
Photo of Ashleigh Kaye, LCPC, Counselor
Ashleigh Kaye
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I am now accepting new clients in VA & MD. Everyone has their own challenges in life, and sometimes we need a little help along the way. I am here to help you along your journey to being the best version of yourself and work through some of the life experiences that have created challenges. You don't have to do this alone. Together, we will work to get through these hard times and accomplish your goals.
I am now accepting new clients in VA & MD. Everyone has their own challenges in life, and sometimes we need a little help along the way. I am here to help you along your journey to being the best version of yourself and work through some of the life experiences that have created challenges. You don't have to do this alone. Together, we will work to get through these hard times and accomplish your goals.
(571) 487-8038 View (571) 487-8038
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
I have worked as a clinician for 23 years. I obtained my Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. My training is wide ranging and I worked in many settings, including a county-wide suicide hotline, with adolescents in crisis, and outpatient and in-home therapy, and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I use multiple modalities in my at-home practice, including DBT (group and individual) CBT and schema, ACT, Strength based and Imago/communication focused couples therapy, multi-systemic and strategic family therapy. I work to match therapy to your needs.
I have worked as a clinician for 23 years. I obtained my Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. My training is wide ranging and I worked in many settings, including a county-wide suicide hotline, with adolescents in crisis, and outpatient and in-home therapy, and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I use multiple modalities in my at-home practice, including DBT (group and individual) CBT and schema, ACT, Strength based and Imago/communication focused couples therapy, multi-systemic and strategic family therapy. I work to match therapy to your needs.
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Valerie Schnibbe Smith - Valerie Smith, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Smith, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
We will always start our work together with focusing on what you are experiencing right now. I can help you find peace and balance as you learn to cope and adjust to the various stresses of life. We can also begin to explore how your past experiences may be influencing you today. Often times we know that our upbringing was not maybe the "best" and as a result we can feel less than fully appreciated and un-validated. This can have longterm effects on our self-esteem and wellbeing. Therapy allows us to fully explore any repeating patterns in your life, and offer freedom from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and suffering.
We will always start our work together with focusing on what you are experiencing right now. I can help you find peace and balance as you learn to cope and adjust to the various stresses of life. We can also begin to explore how your past experiences may be influencing you today. Often times we know that our upbringing was not maybe the "best" and as a result we can feel less than fully appreciated and un-validated. This can have longterm effects on our self-esteem and wellbeing. Therapy allows us to fully explore any repeating patterns in your life, and offer freedom from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and suffering.
(571) 497-5612 View (571) 497-5612
Photo of Kathy Dodson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Dodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Hi and thanks for visiting my profile! I understand how big of a step it can be to seek therapy support, so let me tell you how I can help you. I provide telehealth therapy tailored to your needs. This can be short or long term with a goal to solve a current problem or to overcome a persisting barrier. I have over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages struggling with both mental health and substance abuse challenges. Let me walk with you on your journey of recovery.
Hi and thanks for visiting my profile! I understand how big of a step it can be to seek therapy support, so let me tell you how I can help you. I provide telehealth therapy tailored to your needs. This can be short or long term with a goal to solve a current problem or to overcome a persisting barrier. I have over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages struggling with both mental health and substance abuse challenges. Let me walk with you on your journey of recovery.
(703) 454-8371 View (703) 454-8371
Photo of Jennifer Barnes - Beacon Therapy and Wellness Center, LLC, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beacon Therapy and Wellness Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I believe in an accepting, non-judgmental approach to meet you where you are in your journey through life. My goal is to understand your situation from your point of view. Using personality traits of empathy, compassion, and commitment allow me to help you gain insight to have a better understanding of yourself. This, in turn, helps you to accept yourself for who you are while motivating you to create change. My approach goes beyond listening and understanding. I want to teach you skills that can help you manage and problem solve independently. Empowering you towards self-advocacy is my goal in therapy.
I believe in an accepting, non-judgmental approach to meet you where you are in your journey through life. My goal is to understand your situation from your point of view. Using personality traits of empathy, compassion, and commitment allow me to help you gain insight to have a better understanding of yourself. This, in turn, helps you to accept yourself for who you are while motivating you to create change. My approach goes beyond listening and understanding. I want to teach you skills that can help you manage and problem solve independently. Empowering you towards self-advocacy is my goal in therapy.
(571) 350-0814 View (571) 350-0814
Photo of Hillary Crenshaw, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hillary Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with over 10 years of experience working in different settings which include residential treatment facilities, schools, hospice, hospitals, and community service boards. I am passionate about making sure my clients feel heard and feel safe in their sessions. I definitely rely on humor to help me earn trust and make my clients feel at home. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, DMDD, mood regulation, stress management, grief and bereavement. I look forward to helping you relieve symptoms and start feeling better!
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with over 10 years of experience working in different settings which include residential treatment facilities, schools, hospice, hospitals, and community service boards. I am passionate about making sure my clients feel heard and feel safe in their sessions. I definitely rely on humor to help me earn trust and make my clients feel at home. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, DMDD, mood regulation, stress management, grief and bereavement. I look forward to helping you relieve symptoms and start feeling better!
(434) 623-9577 View (434) 623-9577
Photo of Stephanie Barbour, LPC, CSAC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, LSATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I HAVE SEVERAL OPENINGS. SAME WEEK EVALS ACCEPTING ANTHEM BC/BS, OPTUM, CIGNA, UHC, CAREFIRST, In-network KAISER, and AETNA. LICENSED IN VA AND DC! Have some evenings open and weekends! Accepting same-day appointments via telehealth Virtual throughout VA AND DC. Do you struggle with alcohol use? I specialize in anxiety, depression, and co-occurring disorders. I also provide family therapy. Together we can make your life more manageable and increase your well-being and confidence. I also provide LPC and CSAC supervision.
I HAVE SEVERAL OPENINGS. SAME WEEK EVALS ACCEPTING ANTHEM BC/BS, OPTUM, CIGNA, UHC, CAREFIRST, In-network KAISER, and AETNA. LICENSED IN VA AND DC! Have some evenings open and weekends! Accepting same-day appointments via telehealth Virtual throughout VA AND DC. Do you struggle with alcohol use? I specialize in anxiety, depression, and co-occurring disorders. I also provide family therapy. Together we can make your life more manageable and increase your well-being and confidence. I also provide LPC and CSAC supervision.
(571) 496-9851 View (571) 496-9851
Photo of Sean Gray, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
I believe that clients are the expert in their lives who may need an opportunity to talk about what they are experiencing without feeling judged. The clinical process is not an easy path - it takes time to gain a greater awareness of ourselves and develop healthier coping strategies.
I believe that clients are the expert in their lives who may need an opportunity to talk about what they are experiencing without feeling judged. The clinical process is not an easy path - it takes time to gain a greater awareness of ourselves and develop healthier coping strategies.
(571) 380-8088 View (571) 380-8088
Photo of Lici A. Mercado, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lici A. Mercado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Nobody exists in a vacuum. Although life can be isolating, you don’t have to do it alone. In a time of DIY and instant gratification, I propose connection, collaboration, creativity, and courage in the therapeutic process. Like you, I’m human! I’m a woman, a wife, a mother, an immigrant, a person of faith, a therapist. While I believe everyone is doing their best, I honor and foster a desire for healthy change. For that, I utilize evidence-based approaches to draw on purpose and encourage self-efficacy. I invite and treasure honest feedback, and use the present moment to nourish insight-provoking reflection, and a path for thriving.
Nobody exists in a vacuum. Although life can be isolating, you don’t have to do it alone. In a time of DIY and instant gratification, I propose connection, collaboration, creativity, and courage in the therapeutic process. Like you, I’m human! I’m a woman, a wife, a mother, an immigrant, a person of faith, a therapist. While I believe everyone is doing their best, I honor and foster a desire for healthy change. For that, I utilize evidence-based approaches to draw on purpose and encourage self-efficacy. I invite and treasure honest feedback, and use the present moment to nourish insight-provoking reflection, and a path for thriving.
(703) 621-7179 View (703) 621-7179
Photo of Cathy Lan Lapid, MPH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Lan Lapid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Waitlist for new clients
Ever since I can remember, I have always been a natural helper with an innate ability to connect with people on a personal and emotional level. I have always guided my life and career choices based on how I can be an instrument of change – to help those who face what seem like insurmountable challenges. With over 12 years of professional experience providing mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and families, I serve as a guide to help others build their strengths and inner capacity to overcome the challenges in their life.
Ever since I can remember, I have always been a natural helper with an innate ability to connect with people on a personal and emotional level. I have always guided my life and career choices based on how I can be an instrument of change – to help those who face what seem like insurmountable challenges. With over 12 years of professional experience providing mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and families, I serve as a guide to help others build their strengths and inner capacity to overcome the challenges in their life.
(571) 317-2291 View (571) 317-2291
Photo of Joshua Arnold, LPC, CSAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with individuals to help them achieve the highest quality of life possible through use of problem-solving and healthy coping. My areas of specialty include substance use treatment, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, grief and loss, crisis management, and couples work. In counseling, I endeavor to provide a safe space for individuals to share concerns and struggles they are experiencing, while exploring strategies with them for improved wellness.
I have a passion for working with individuals to help them achieve the highest quality of life possible through use of problem-solving and healthy coping. My areas of specialty include substance use treatment, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, grief and loss, crisis management, and couples work. In counseling, I endeavor to provide a safe space for individuals to share concerns and struggles they are experiencing, while exploring strategies with them for improved wellness.
(571) 568-7044 View (571) 568-7044
Photo of Angel Bryant, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angel Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Ms. Angel Bryant LPC — strength, base, positive psychology, person center, resolution focus in order to reach sustainable mental health wellness. I believe and Affirm I am truly a representation of the clients I support/advocate with daily. This resilient population consists of LGBTQIA+ individuals with diverse disabilities, women of color, business professionals, and military/veterans. Based on some recent reviews, the therapeutic room I create offers an experience of comfort, support, congruency, and unconditional regard, in a safe and humble atmosphere…
Ms. Angel Bryant LPC — strength, base, positive psychology, person center, resolution focus in order to reach sustainable mental health wellness. I believe and Affirm I am truly a representation of the clients I support/advocate with daily. This resilient population consists of LGBTQIA+ individuals with diverse disabilities, women of color, business professionals, and military/veterans. Based on some recent reviews, the therapeutic room I create offers an experience of comfort, support, congruency, and unconditional regard, in a safe and humble atmosphere…
(571) 462-4132 View (571) 462-4132
Photo of Molly McKeon-Howard, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly McKeon-Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Life can be difficult and at times feel hopeless. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or you need to find a new therapist, call me and let’s get you feeling better. I am available for both telehealth and in-person sessions.
Life can be difficult and at times feel hopeless. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or you need to find a new therapist, call me and let’s get you feeling better. I am available for both telehealth and in-person sessions.
(703) 810-3803 View (703) 810-3803
Photo of Arsheia Jones, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arsheia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
I'm so glad you're here! I believe that we all have the potential to be our best selves, and it is my honor and privilege to help you get there. I am a licensed professional counselor with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. I am also a licensed Substance Abuse practitioner and certified sex offender treatment provider. I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My therapy practice is based on cognitive-behavioral principles from a client-centered perspective. As a therapist, I aim to help you rediscover your life's balance.
I'm so glad you're here! I believe that we all have the potential to be our best selves, and it is my honor and privilege to help you get there. I am a licensed professional counselor with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. I am also a licensed Substance Abuse practitioner and certified sex offender treatment provider. I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My therapy practice is based on cognitive-behavioral principles from a client-centered perspective. As a therapist, I aim to help you rediscover your life's balance.
(703) 270-0551 View (703) 270-0551
Photo of Christine Salo-Sokolowski, LPC, CPDPE, CPDCE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Salo-Sokolowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPDPE, CPDCE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Do you experience negative or racing thoughts, anxious, depressed feelings or mood swings? Are your relationships hard? If you answered “yes” then we should talk. Improving quality of life through thought change, healthier coping skills, new perspectives and learning how to take control of interactions is what I do.
Do you experience negative or racing thoughts, anxious, depressed feelings or mood swings? Are your relationships hard? If you answered “yes” then we should talk. Improving quality of life through thought change, healthier coping skills, new perspectives and learning how to take control of interactions is what I do.
(571) 470-7285 View (571) 470-7285
Photo of Theresa Aileen Shuart, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa Aileen Shuart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Ms. Theresa Shuart is a Clinical Fellow in the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists with more than 35 years’ experience working with patients in the mental health field, helping people of all ages (age 3 and above), and she specializes in marriage and family therapy and loves working with children. Her clientele is diverse; she works with individuals, couples, and families. Typical treatment issues include anxiety, depression, behavioral problems; blended families; marriage issues, and military family issues.
Ms. Theresa Shuart is a Clinical Fellow in the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists with more than 35 years’ experience working with patients in the mental health field, helping people of all ages (age 3 and above), and she specializes in marriage and family therapy and loves working with children. Her clientele is diverse; she works with individuals, couples, and families. Typical treatment issues include anxiety, depression, behavioral problems; blended families; marriage issues, and military family issues.
(703) 991-0519 View (703) 991-0519
Photo of MacKenzie Dressing - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(703) 782-4390 View (703) 782-4390
Photo of Tatiana Bergstrom, MA, LSATP, ICADC, CSAC, CAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tatiana Bergstrom
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LSATP, ICADC, CSAC, CAP
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
As a therapist, I try to provide my client with a calm, nurturing and safe environment. My approach is person-centered and I try to work in collaboration with my client to help them overcome the barriers of life so that they can reach their goals. Often it feels painful and difficult to challenge cognitive distortions, yet I try to assist in a kind fashion to work toward independence and growth.
As a therapist, I try to provide my client with a calm, nurturing and safe environment. My approach is person-centered and I try to work in collaboration with my client to help them overcome the barriers of life so that they can reach their goals. Often it feels painful and difficult to challenge cognitive distortions, yet I try to assist in a kind fashion to work toward independence and growth.
(571) 992-0035 View (571) 992-0035

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22003

100+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 22003 who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
96% Depression
83% Self Esteem
80% Coping Skills
80% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in 22003 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22003?

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.