Photo of Kennise Baker, LSW
Kennise Baker
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Hello, I'm Kennise! My objective is to provide support and education on evidence-based techniques that assist individuals in effectively processing and regulating their emotions. Moreover, I strive to empower clients to construct a life they can take pride in. Taking the initiative to seek assistance is an important step towards self-care, though it can be challenging. Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey solo - let's embark on it together!
Hello, I'm Kennise! My objective is to provide support and education on evidence-based techniques that assist individuals in effectively processing and regulating their emotions. Moreover, I strive to empower clients to construct a life they can take pride in. Taking the initiative to seek assistance is an important step towards self-care, though it can be challenging. Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey solo - let's embark on it together!
(703) 634-3975 View (703) 634-3975
Photo of Alexandra Coughlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Coughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Hi! I'm Alix, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience serving the DC Metro area. Holding a master's degree in social work from Boston University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Michigan, I've dedicated myself to aiding individuals in discovering their happiness and conquering challenges. My career spans various fields, including child welfare, educational institutions, adult day programs, and skilled nursing facilities, catering to individuals aged 6 to 86. Infusing my work with an upbeat, positive, and energetic demeanor is my trademark when assisting all my clients.
Hi! I'm Alix, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience serving the DC Metro area. Holding a master's degree in social work from Boston University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Michigan, I've dedicated myself to aiding individuals in discovering their happiness and conquering challenges. My career spans various fields, including child welfare, educational institutions, adult day programs, and skilled nursing facilities, catering to individuals aged 6 to 86. Infusing my work with an upbeat, positive, and energetic demeanor is my trademark when assisting all my clients.
(703) 890-5142 View (703) 890-5142
Photo of Angela Scott
Angela Scott
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
You’re feeling hopeless, wanting to give up running out of options, and feeling exhausted. Your story is filled with pain, grief, and confusion. Family and friends let you down in your childhood. People have given up on you. Despite all this, there is something that keeps pushing you forward. People depend on you, but you can't help them because lack of motivation, but you can't give up. You are here to find understanding and support in finding and learning about yourself.
You’re feeling hopeless, wanting to give up running out of options, and feeling exhausted. Your story is filled with pain, grief, and confusion. Family and friends let you down in your childhood. People have given up on you. Despite all this, there is something that keeps pushing you forward. People depend on you, but you can't help them because lack of motivation, but you can't give up. You are here to find understanding and support in finding and learning about yourself.
(540) 583-3418 View (540) 583-3418
Photo of Carolina Duval - Pearl Vitality Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pearl Vitality Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
BILINGUAL (SPANISH/ENGLISH SPEAKING) THERAPIST .I believe the purpose of therapy is for you to more deeply discover who you are, what you want, and how to get it. During therapy, I will do my best to honor your personal experiences and perspective. You can count on me to provide you with honest feedback, and to offer suggestions based on my clinical training and life experiences. I encourage your active participation and collaboration as we develop our therapeutic relationship and work to meet your chosen goals.
BILINGUAL (SPANISH/ENGLISH SPEAKING) THERAPIST .I believe the purpose of therapy is for you to more deeply discover who you are, what you want, and how to get it. During therapy, I will do my best to honor your personal experiences and perspective. You can count on me to provide you with honest feedback, and to offer suggestions based on my clinical training and life experiences. I encourage your active participation and collaboration as we develop our therapeutic relationship and work to meet your chosen goals.
(703) 260-9352 View (703) 260-9352
Photo of Kenya Land
Kenya Land
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Hello everyone, I’m Kenya, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisee and recent graduate from Liberty University, where I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My journey into this field stems from a profound passion for helping others navigate their mental health challenges. During my academic and practical training, I developed a particular interest in addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, and anger management.
Hello everyone, I’m Kenya, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisee and recent graduate from Liberty University, where I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My journey into this field stems from a profound passion for helping others navigate their mental health challenges. During my academic and practical training, I developed a particular interest in addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, and anger management.
(571) 605-6825 View (571) 605-6825
Photo of Emily Gibson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
I strive to support people in learning to managing difficult phases of life and tough emotions so they can be the best version of themselves. I have been trained in and feel comfortable with a wide array of therapy modalities in order to provide services that best fit my clients' individual needs. Though I recognize the uniqueness of my clients, I also work to view them holistically as individuals within cultures, communities, and systems that influence the person they are. I am especially passionate about helping those who have recently moved to the U.S. and are adjusting or re-adjusting to the culture here.
I strive to support people in learning to managing difficult phases of life and tough emotions so they can be the best version of themselves. I have been trained in and feel comfortable with a wide array of therapy modalities in order to provide services that best fit my clients' individual needs. Though I recognize the uniqueness of my clients, I also work to view them holistically as individuals within cultures, communities, and systems that influence the person they are. I am especially passionate about helping those who have recently moved to the U.S. and are adjusting or re-adjusting to the culture here.
(571) 200-3772 View (571) 200-3772
Photo of Stephanie Gagnon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Gagnon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
I'm Stephanie Gagnon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with three decades of experience. Throughout my career, I've focused on providing outpatient therapy to individuals and couples grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. In the face of significant life stressors, it's natural for one's life to feel disrupted. My dedication lies in restoring healing and joy to their lives. My counseling approach is integrative, meaning I adapt the therapeutic journey to suit each individual's unique needs.
I'm Stephanie Gagnon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with three decades of experience. Throughout my career, I've focused on providing outpatient therapy to individuals and couples grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. In the face of significant life stressors, it's natural for one's life to feel disrupted. My dedication lies in restoring healing and joy to their lives. My counseling approach is integrative, meaning I adapt the therapeutic journey to suit each individual's unique needs.
(703) 783-2367 x1 View (703) 783-2367 x1
Photo of Anna Cameron, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
With over 17 years of clinical social work under her belt, Anna is adept at tackling a range of issues including abuse, neglect, trauma, grief, terminal illness, chronic mental illness, family dynamics, medical conditions, and mood disorders. Her expertise shines in treating anxiety and panic disorder in both adolescents and adults. Anna's extensive background encompasses guiding individuals through grief and loss, managing chronic medical conditions, and supporting those facing terminal illness. She's passionate about aiding adults in overcoming anxiety & mood disorders, addressing women's issues, and serving the LGBTQI community.
With over 17 years of clinical social work under her belt, Anna is adept at tackling a range of issues including abuse, neglect, trauma, grief, terminal illness, chronic mental illness, family dynamics, medical conditions, and mood disorders. Her expertise shines in treating anxiety and panic disorder in both adolescents and adults. Anna's extensive background encompasses guiding individuals through grief and loss, managing chronic medical conditions, and supporting those facing terminal illness. She's passionate about aiding adults in overcoming anxiety & mood disorders, addressing women's issues, and serving the LGBTQI community.
(703) 686-5065 View (703) 686-5065
Photo of Stacie Kruzinski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Kruzinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Hello, I'm Stacie. As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring extensive experience across various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities and outpatient psychiatric/substance use treatment centers. My focus lies in empowering individuals to discover their inner drive for transformation, fostering stress management techniques, and nurturing self-assurance. My counseling approach is characterized by authenticity, support, genuineness, kindness, compassion, and responsiveness.
Hello, I'm Stacie. As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring extensive experience across various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities and outpatient psychiatric/substance use treatment centers. My focus lies in empowering individuals to discover their inner drive for transformation, fostering stress management techniques, and nurturing self-assurance. My counseling approach is characterized by authenticity, support, genuineness, kindness, compassion, and responsiveness.
(856) 788-7288 x1 View (856) 788-7288 x1
Photo of Jamal Claiborne- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions, MSW
Jamal Claiborne- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Mr. Claiborne received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Virginia State University and a Master's in Social Work from Norfolk State University. As a Supervisee in Social Work, Mr. Claiborne worked with several different populations: individual, group therapy, inmates transitioning out of prison, Intensive In-home with children and adolescents who were at risk of out of home placement , family therapy, mental health skill building services and therapeutic day treatment in the community and in the school setting.
Mr. Claiborne received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Virginia State University and a Master's in Social Work from Norfolk State University. As a Supervisee in Social Work, Mr. Claiborne worked with several different populations: individual, group therapy, inmates transitioning out of prison, Intensive In-home with children and adolescents who were at risk of out of home placement , family therapy, mental health skill building services and therapeutic day treatment in the community and in the school setting.
(703) 890-5314 View (703) 890-5314
Photo of Anita Abotsi, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anita Abotsi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
I'm Anita Abotsi, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rhode Island College and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. Throughout my career, I've worked in diverse settings including community-based mental health programs, crisis stabilization units, and substance abuse recovery centers. I provide counseling services to both youth and adults, addressing a wide array of concerns.
I'm Anita Abotsi, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rhode Island College and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. Throughout my career, I've worked in diverse settings including community-based mental health programs, crisis stabilization units, and substance abuse recovery centers. I provide counseling services to both youth and adults, addressing a wide array of concerns.
(703) 936-2886 View (703) 936-2886
Photo of Scott Sinatore Succardi, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Scott Sinatore Succardi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Greetings, I'm thrilled to extend a warm embrace as you embark on this journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. As a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals through life's myriad of challenges, I find profound fulfillment in accompanying my clients through the maze of anxiety, existential dilemmas, relationships, and philosophical pondering. With over a decade of experience as a personal trainer as well, I have developed an innate understanding of the valuable interplay between mind, body, and spirit.
Greetings, I'm thrilled to extend a warm embrace as you embark on this journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. As a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals through life's myriad of challenges, I find profound fulfillment in accompanying my clients through the maze of anxiety, existential dilemmas, relationships, and philosophical pondering. With over a decade of experience as a personal trainer as well, I have developed an innate understanding of the valuable interplay between mind, body, and spirit.
(571) 399-8292 View (571) 399-8292
Photo of Ebony Harrison, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ebony Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Hi there, I'm Ebony Harrison, a licensed professional counselor with more than 5 years of experience supporting diverse populations across different environments. My primary focus areas include anxiety, grief, death/dying, and trauma. I take pleasure in assisting individuals grappling with life's overwhelming stressors. Collaborating closely with my clients, I tailor care to prioritize their unique experiences. By offering perspective and gently encouraging growth through healthy challenges, I foster a safe and supportive environment for personal development.
Hi there, I'm Ebony Harrison, a licensed professional counselor with more than 5 years of experience supporting diverse populations across different environments. My primary focus areas include anxiety, grief, death/dying, and trauma. I take pleasure in assisting individuals grappling with life's overwhelming stressors. Collaborating closely with my clients, I tailor care to prioritize their unique experiences. By offering perspective and gently encouraging growth through healthy challenges, I foster a safe and supportive environment for personal development.
(571) 410-3661 x1 View (571) 410-3661 x1
Photo of Cheryl Thompson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
I've been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for over a decade, catering to clients across all age groups. Utilizing a person-centered approach in my sessions, I understand that life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and sometimes, we all need guidance in navigating through uncertainties. Together, we'll collaborate to cultivate the skills and techniques needed to cope during such times. Creating a safe and welcoming space for you to express yourself is paramount in our sessions. I'm excited to witness your growth and the development of your self-confidence.
I've been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for over a decade, catering to clients across all age groups. Utilizing a person-centered approach in my sessions, I understand that life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and sometimes, we all need guidance in navigating through uncertainties. Together, we'll collaborate to cultivate the skills and techniques needed to cope during such times. Creating a safe and welcoming space for you to express yourself is paramount in our sessions. I'm excited to witness your growth and the development of your self-confidence.
(703) 936-7091 View (703) 936-7091
Photo of Tina Logan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Logan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and a graduate of Liberty University. I have been licensed for several years and have worked in residential treatment and in a community-based healthcare organization. The counseling profession, for me, was precipitated out of a necessity to have an impartial view of the events of life. I believe there is power in addressing one’s physical and emotional needs. My toolbox of life experiences has provided me with the ability to understand common patterns of beliefs that affect most people in life’s journey.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and a graduate of Liberty University. I have been licensed for several years and have worked in residential treatment and in a community-based healthcare organization. The counseling profession, for me, was precipitated out of a necessity to have an impartial view of the events of life. I believe there is power in addressing one’s physical and emotional needs. My toolbox of life experiences has provided me with the ability to understand common patterns of beliefs that affect most people in life’s journey.
(703) 936-2198 View (703) 936-2198
Photo of Julie Keen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Keen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Julie is a seasoned therapist with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. She comes from a background in both public and private sectors that includes extensive experience in emergency mental health and family systems. Her areas of expertise include trauma, addiction, women’s issues and life transitions. Julie's commitment to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction fuels her passion for working with those affected by these challenges.
Julie is a seasoned therapist with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. She comes from a background in both public and private sectors that includes extensive experience in emergency mental health and family systems. Her areas of expertise include trauma, addiction, women’s issues and life transitions. Julie's commitment to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction fuels her passion for working with those affected by these challenges.
(571) 596-6603 View (571) 596-6603
Photo of Rasheede Hicks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rasheede Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Rasheede embarked on her journey in the community by offering counseling to individuals and families. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to empowering her clients to achieve their highest potential in the present moment. With over twenty years of experience in mental health, what sets her apart as a provider are her life experiences, past and present, her unwavering passion, drive, tolerance, and understanding, as well as her ability to empathize with and address the needs of her clients.
Rasheede embarked on her journey in the community by offering counseling to individuals and families. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to empowering her clients to achieve their highest potential in the present moment. With over twenty years of experience in mental health, what sets her apart as a provider are her life experiences, past and present, her unwavering passion, drive, tolerance, and understanding, as well as her ability to empathize with and address the needs of her clients.
(571) 506-3761 View (571) 506-3761
Photo of Dr. Katherine Fairhurst, PhD, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Katherine Fairhurst
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Anticipating Openings October 1st. So much of life is spent facing challenges that we do not feel equipped to overcome on our own – deep down you know you are capable of more but feel held back by self-doubt, fear, anxiety, and insecurity? I know I have. It is my belief that, with the right support, self-understanding, and tools people are capable of improving how they show up in their lives. It is my philosophy that we can never underestimate the value of our past experiences, we have more strengths than we give ourselves credit for. Sometimes we just need the right type of help to unlock them!
Anticipating Openings October 1st. So much of life is spent facing challenges that we do not feel equipped to overcome on our own – deep down you know you are capable of more but feel held back by self-doubt, fear, anxiety, and insecurity? I know I have. It is my belief that, with the right support, self-understanding, and tools people are capable of improving how they show up in their lives. It is my philosophy that we can never underestimate the value of our past experiences, we have more strengths than we give ourselves credit for. Sometimes we just need the right type of help to unlock them!
(304) 396-6749 View (304) 396-6749
Photo of Jessica Bryan
Jessica Bryan
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Hello there! I'm Jessica Bryan. I bring nearly 15 years of mental health experience from private practice and community-based services. My mission is to assist you in pinpointing your priorities and surmounting the barriers hindering you from achieving the life you desire. I look forward to working with you!
Hello there! I'm Jessica Bryan. I bring nearly 15 years of mental health experience from private practice and community-based services. My mission is to assist you in pinpointing your priorities and surmounting the barriers hindering you from achieving the life you desire. I look forward to working with you!
(703) 457-1634 View (703) 457-1634
Photo of Emma Flintrop, LCSW, MSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Flintrop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
It is a difficult task to find a therapist that will meet you where you are at and be comfortable sharing who you really are. That is why I strive to create an open and accepting environment that is tailored to the unique needs of each individual client. My name is Emma Flintrop (She/Her) a licensed social worker in the state of Virginia. I have received my Masters of social work at Rutgers University. I have past experience with working with anxiety, depression, self harming, suicidal ideation, life transitions, communication, grief, and finding ones true self.
It is a difficult task to find a therapist that will meet you where you are at and be comfortable sharing who you really are. That is why I strive to create an open and accepting environment that is tailored to the unique needs of each individual client. My name is Emma Flintrop (She/Her) a licensed social worker in the state of Virginia. I have received my Masters of social work at Rutgers University. I have past experience with working with anxiety, depression, self harming, suicidal ideation, life transitions, communication, grief, and finding ones true self.
(571) 200-8757 View (571) 200-8757
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22304

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 22304 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
85% Self Esteem
85% Stress
83% Coping Skills
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Cigna and Evernorth
85% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 22304 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
10% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22304?

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.