Therapists in 24501
![Photo of Justin Dixon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc843979-e3af-4377-93a0-e52fd43f31e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501 (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you’re carrying more stress than you can bear? That's because you are. Life can be messy, complicated, and stressful and sometimes the weight of it all is too much. It leaves you tired, anxious, and depressed. But you don't have to carry that weight alone. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing virtual therapy in Virginia. Essentially, I am someone who walks alongside you to create a safe space that will empower you to make lasting changes in your life and relationships.
Do you ever feel like you’re carrying more stress than you can bear? That's because you are. Life can be messy, complicated, and stressful and sometimes the weight of it all is too much. It leaves you tired, anxious, and depressed. But you don't have to carry that weight alone. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing virtual therapy in Virginia. Essentially, I am someone who walks alongside you to create a safe space that will empower you to make lasting changes in your life and relationships.
![Photo of LaPetra Whigham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a8b5823-d34b-4112-9ef3-9c43b8eda87c/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaPetra Whigham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501
LaPetra Whigham is a liscened clinical social worker with 18 yrs of experience in mental health and integrative healthcare. She is a highly skilled and compassionate therapist who works with individuals with issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, emotional eating, psuedoseizures and women issues.
LaPetra Whigham is a liscened clinical social worker with 18 yrs of experience in mental health and integrative healthcare. She is a highly skilled and compassionate therapist who works with individuals with issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, emotional eating, psuedoseizures and women issues.
![Photo of Nyomi Roth, LPC-S, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e7f2531-1a10-4586-b988-12ddd1bd249a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nyomi Roth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients who come to counseling because they are ready to reflect, challenge and better understand themselves. I work with individuals who are experiencing life changes, family of origin issues, trauma, anxiety, mood dysregulation, wish to work on self esteem, work-life balance or finding life purpose. I have experience working with Multicultural/ Minority Groups, LGBTQ populations, non-religious and religious clients, therapists and medical related service professionals, women's related issues, and a number of other populations. My goal is to help clients end sessions with a greater sense of self awareness and insight.
I work with clients who come to counseling because they are ready to reflect, challenge and better understand themselves. I work with individuals who are experiencing life changes, family of origin issues, trauma, anxiety, mood dysregulation, wish to work on self esteem, work-life balance or finding life purpose. I have experience working with Multicultural/ Minority Groups, LGBTQ populations, non-religious and religious clients, therapists and medical related service professionals, women's related issues, and a number of other populations. My goal is to help clients end sessions with a greater sense of self awareness and insight.
![Photo of Erin Blue, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d27f30ee-6258-4d7f-870f-9f15ae6e75cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my role as a counselor, I support individuals who have experienced trauma or pain in their lives. Much of my work focuses on processing trauma, building awareness, and practicing doing something different. I have a special interest in assisting clients through relationship concerns, personality disorders, and dysfunctional families. The people that I work with often feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of behaving, thinking, and feeling. Counseling offers you the intentional space to explore those stuck points and build new patterns to sustain a satisfying life.
In my role as a counselor, I support individuals who have experienced trauma or pain in their lives. Much of my work focuses on processing trauma, building awareness, and practicing doing something different. I have a special interest in assisting clients through relationship concerns, personality disorders, and dysfunctional families. The people that I work with often feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of behaving, thinking, and feeling. Counseling offers you the intentional space to explore those stuck points and build new patterns to sustain a satisfying life.
![Photo of Josey Hull, LPC-S, ADS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab5d5914-bb45-40a3-b085-f0d0108e29e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Josey Hull
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, ADS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to Your Well-Being Journey! Hey there, seeker of balance and growth! I get you – the one who knows that true well-being involves both mind and body. Ready to explore a personalized path to mental wellness? Curious about acupressure/acupuncture's added magic? You're not alone. Feel the excitement building? That's your intuition saying this is your moment! Dive into a holistic embrace, unraveling layers of mind and body synergy. Why wait? Your holistic adventure begins now. Let the healing unfold.
Welcome to Your Well-Being Journey! Hey there, seeker of balance and growth! I get you – the one who knows that true well-being involves both mind and body. Ready to explore a personalized path to mental wellness? Curious about acupressure/acupuncture's added magic? You're not alone. Feel the excitement building? That's your intuition saying this is your moment! Dive into a holistic embrace, unraveling layers of mind and body synergy. Why wait? Your holistic adventure begins now. Let the healing unfold.
![Photo of Laura Elizabeth Foster - Jung at Heart Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e94b02d-98dc-4cb1-acf0-e1a76204a316/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jung at Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501 (Online Only)
Finding value and meaning whether you are in the valley or at the top of the mountain using a blend of traditional evidenced based interventions with an existential feel incorporating different philosophies and schools of thought.
Finding value and meaning whether you are in the valley or at the top of the mountain using a blend of traditional evidenced based interventions with an existential feel incorporating different philosophies and schools of thought.
![Photo of Anita Abotsi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50097bf8-e6ec-4cff-8109-30b5e7b72b20/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Luke E. Hummel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34d6912c-ddb6-4760-9f14-b821d0c5c074/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luke Hummel is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing outpatient counseling to individuals in Lynchburg, VA and the surrounding area. Luke has experience working with a diverse clientele of adolescents and adults, addressing various needs including depression, anxiety, trauma, relational problems, and grief.
Luke Hummel is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing outpatient counseling to individuals in Lynchburg, VA and the surrounding area. Luke has experience working with a diverse clientele of adolescents and adults, addressing various needs including depression, anxiety, trauma, relational problems, and grief.
![Photo of Katie Albach, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/844245c3-cb93-439c-96f6-76f8348a67e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Dr. Albach. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Doctor of Psychology in practice since 2001. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going. That is why I am here to help create change through healthier minds, behaviors and thoughts.
Hi, I'm Dr. Albach. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Doctor of Psychology in practice since 2001. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going. That is why I am here to help create change through healthier minds, behaviors and thoughts.
![Photo of Brittany Ayers, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ca67d8c-fc00-4ada-b63f-3a8678042ccf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My experience working with at-risk populations has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact trauma has on an individual. I support and work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Clients can expect to enter an accepting, welcoming environment so we can work together through life’s obstacles from the past and help you find peace in the present. I believe that empowerment is one of the strongest tools a client can have so I help facilitate that by holding client-led sessions where I am able to support your experience and help you voice your narrative about it.
My experience working with at-risk populations has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact trauma has on an individual. I support and work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Clients can expect to enter an accepting, welcoming environment so we can work together through life’s obstacles from the past and help you find peace in the present. I believe that empowerment is one of the strongest tools a client can have so I help facilitate that by holding client-led sessions where I am able to support your experience and help you voice your narrative about it.
![Photo of Susan Eick, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/782b58e4-e65b-4ccd-8185-d19ff94b084f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can feel overwhelming at times. A certain situation might throw you off, like a change or loss in relationship, employment, stage of life or health. Maybe you question who you are or who you want to be. Sometimes something unbearable happens and you can't imagine moving forward. You might be looking for a little bit of help to get through a challenge, or you may be working through struggles you've had for some time, or you may not know what you feel or want but have a sense that an advocate might help move things in a positive direction.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. A certain situation might throw you off, like a change or loss in relationship, employment, stage of life or health. Maybe you question who you are or who you want to be. Sometimes something unbearable happens and you can't imagine moving forward. You might be looking for a little bit of help to get through a challenge, or you may be working through struggles you've had for some time, or you may not know what you feel or want but have a sense that an advocate might help move things in a positive direction.
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![Photo of Otis G. Whigham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0eb7de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Otis G. Whigham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Are you or your teen suffering to overcome past hurt, trauma, or depression? Does your marriage or relationship seem to be falling apart? Do you find yourself feeling anxious, having trouble making decisions, and wishing for peace in your life? With evening and weekend hours available, we offer individual, couple, family, and group counseling to assist people like you with these and many other issues.
Are you or your teen suffering to overcome past hurt, trauma, or depression? Does your marriage or relationship seem to be falling apart? Do you find yourself feeling anxious, having trouble making decisions, and wishing for peace in your life? With evening and weekend hours available, we offer individual, couple, family, and group counseling to assist people like you with these and many other issues.
![Photo of Deena Michelle Robertson, LMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be0dd950-9588-4d2f-bb95-0421ccbe2d9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ms. Deena Robertson, a Licensed Resident in Counseling, has genuine compassion and empathy for those who have walked through difficult life experiences. She believes in emotional growth, hope, compassion for yourself, and understanding your traumatic experiences. Deena is very trauma-informed and believes in a non-discriminatory and non-judgmental environment that allows healing, growth, and true insight. Deena received her Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling at Liberty University.
Ms. Deena Robertson, a Licensed Resident in Counseling, has genuine compassion and empathy for those who have walked through difficult life experiences. She believes in emotional growth, hope, compassion for yourself, and understanding your traumatic experiences. Deena is very trauma-informed and believes in a non-discriminatory and non-judgmental environment that allows healing, growth, and true insight. Deena received her Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling at Liberty University.
![Photo of Avery G Gaul, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d97ec174-a653-4fa8-93cb-898b9ffdf5b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a counselor, I am passionate about working with adults and young adults through trauma, life-transitions, spiritual and religious concerns, depression and anxiety, and body image issues. I enjoy seeing my clients reach their health and wellness goals, grow in resilience, and expand their capacity for self-compassion. I also incorporate a holistic wellness model into my treatment plans as I believe it allows the clients to successfully reach their goals, be more present in their daily life all while living a balanced life.
As a counselor, I am passionate about working with adults and young adults through trauma, life-transitions, spiritual and religious concerns, depression and anxiety, and body image issues. I enjoy seeing my clients reach their health and wellness goals, grow in resilience, and expand their capacity for self-compassion. I also incorporate a holistic wellness model into my treatment plans as I believe it allows the clients to successfully reach their goals, be more present in their daily life all while living a balanced life.
![Photo of Jon Winder, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408624b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The two most important factors in effective psychotherapy are finding the right person with whom you can connect and knowing that the therapy is geared to your unique needs. My 45 years of counseling have taught me therapy is most effective when we work together. Therapy is a cooperative effort. I want to identify your strengths and apply them to your problems. If you have a history of trauma, I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective way to treat trauma and am excited to offer this therapy.
The two most important factors in effective psychotherapy are finding the right person with whom you can connect and knowing that the therapy is geared to your unique needs. My 45 years of counseling have taught me therapy is most effective when we work together. Therapy is a cooperative effort. I want to identify your strengths and apply them to your problems. If you have a history of trauma, I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective way to treat trauma and am excited to offer this therapy.
![Photo of Mark A Saunders Sr - Dr. Mark A Saunders Sr./Wellspring of Hope, PhD, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52daaae6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark A Saunders Sr./Wellspring of Hope
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
I enjoy working with couples or those who want to improve their relationships in life. I have years of experience with couples seeking counseling because of conflict and crisis or those who would like to re-ignite the passion and intimacy in their relationship that they once had. I have worked with couples from diverse populations including African American, Latinos, Caucasian, Asian, and Middle-Eastern. I also work with individuals who are struggling with life changes such as divorce, employment changes, parenting, caring for family members, and death of a loved one.
I enjoy working with couples or those who want to improve their relationships in life. I have years of experience with couples seeking counseling because of conflict and crisis or those who would like to re-ignite the passion and intimacy in their relationship that they once had. I have worked with couples from diverse populations including African American, Latinos, Caucasian, Asian, and Middle-Eastern. I also work with individuals who are struggling with life changes such as divorce, employment changes, parenting, caring for family members, and death of a loved one.
![Photo of Jean Odachowski - Red Door Counseling Services, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06e00a96-4793-4bb2-a90f-c2efae62d487/1/320x400.jpeg)
Red Door Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501 (Online Only)
My goal is to learn about my clients and their needs by listening to what is most important to them and instilling hope. I have experience working with mothers of young children who need support in managing behaviors, sensory and developmental needs of their child. Building a warm and compassionate relationship is key in therapy in my view. Helping my clients enhance their relationships by working through past trauma and past negative relationships is one of my key goals. I enjoy working with teens and other adults who are trying to find their way in the world of relationships, work, family and changing communities.
My goal is to learn about my clients and their needs by listening to what is most important to them and instilling hope. I have experience working with mothers of young children who need support in managing behaviors, sensory and developmental needs of their child. Building a warm and compassionate relationship is key in therapy in my view. Helping my clients enhance their relationships by working through past trauma and past negative relationships is one of my key goals. I enjoy working with teens and other adults who are trying to find their way in the world of relationships, work, family and changing communities.
![Photo of Tiffany Michele Borchick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aaa3990-f4ff-481b-8814-82b4688f63c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Michele Borchick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. I believe that just like our bodies require regular check-ups, so do our minds. I understand that the process of selecting a counselor can be difficult and that relationship matters. Its important to find someone that is open to meeting you where you are, in a non-judgemental and honest manner. You are looking for someone that can handle the ugly thoughts and feelings but also be there to celebrate the good. I hope to be there for that.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. I believe that just like our bodies require regular check-ups, so do our minds. I understand that the process of selecting a counselor can be difficult and that relationship matters. Its important to find someone that is open to meeting you where you are, in a non-judgemental and honest manner. You are looking for someone that can handle the ugly thoughts and feelings but also be there to celebrate the good. I hope to be there for that.
![Photo of Timothy H Barclay - Advanced Psychotherapeutics, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa9db73-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our motto: "We don't treat problems, we fix them." We offer the best in counseling and alternative medicine in Virginia. I have been trained in research applications and the clinical use of non-invasive brain stimulation at Harvard Medical School. I'm also trained in neurofeedback. Our therapists treat a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Autism, Mood disorders, substance abuse, marriage and family, and others. We offer the most comprehensive services available in Virginia. In addition to treatment, we are also a training and research facility. Whether you're looking for therapy, life coaching, or brain stimulation, we can help.
Our motto: "We don't treat problems, we fix them." We offer the best in counseling and alternative medicine in Virginia. I have been trained in research applications and the clinical use of non-invasive brain stimulation at Harvard Medical School. I'm also trained in neurofeedback. Our therapists treat a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Autism, Mood disorders, substance abuse, marriage and family, and others. We offer the most comprehensive services available in Virginia. In addition to treatment, we are also a training and research facility. Whether you're looking for therapy, life coaching, or brain stimulation, we can help.
![Photo of Sunday Rae Towles, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d99396-733e-42d0-8469-c54cd6f10116/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sunday Rae Towles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Waitlist for new clients
My experiences ranges from working with married couples, single adults, and adolescents. My particular training has focused on women who have experienced sexual trauma, with adjacent issues of depression, body image, self worth, and healthy relationships.
My experiences ranges from working with married couples, single adults, and adolescents. My particular training has focused on women who have experienced sexual trauma, with adjacent issues of depression, body image, self worth, and healthy relationships.
See more therapy options for 24501
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 24501
70+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in 24501 who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Stress |
69% | Coping Skills |
67% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
75% | Anthem | Elevance |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in 24501 see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 24501?
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
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.
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.
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.