Photo of Sara E. Staker, MA, LPCC, C-DBT
Sara E. Staker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324  (Online Only)
Life is too long to remain unhappy and too short to have continued regrets. During a session, my intention is to assist the client in utilizing their strengths to help them solve their struggles. I offer as much insight as needed while helping the client resolve their concerns and develop healthy coping strategies. I typically start out asking questions that help me get to know you and learn what your concerns are and future sessions consist of coping strategies, acknowledging trauma, learning how to process what has happened, and how to accept future possibilities.
Life is too long to remain unhappy and too short to have continued regrets. During a session, my intention is to assist the client in utilizing their strengths to help them solve their struggles. I offer as much insight as needed while helping the client resolve their concerns and develop healthy coping strategies. I typically start out asking questions that help me get to know you and learn what your concerns are and future sessions consist of coping strategies, acknowledging trauma, learning how to process what has happened, and how to accept future possibilities.
(859) 251-2744 View (859) 251-2744
Photo of Shannon Smith Moeller - Georgetown Counseling Services, MA, LPCA
Georgetown Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
In today's chaotic world, mental health issues have been brought to the forefront. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse and neglect are just a few examples that some face on a day to day basis. Individual needs can be addressed and different types of therapies can be used in order to give someone the right tools and skills to alleviate or even eliminate their daily struggles. Mental health issues not only affect the individual but it can take its toll on families, friends, associates, and more. Seek help and feel better for you!
In today's chaotic world, mental health issues have been brought to the forefront. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse and neglect are just a few examples that some face on a day to day basis. Individual needs can be addressed and different types of therapies can be used in order to give someone the right tools and skills to alleviate or even eliminate their daily struggles. Mental health issues not only affect the individual but it can take its toll on families, friends, associates, and more. Seek help and feel better for you!
(502) 586-3163 View (502) 586-3163
Photo of Jean M. Miller - Transformational Therapy Center, llc, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transformational Therapy Center, llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Hello and congratulations! You are one step closer to stepping out of emotional pain and into some relief. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with beautiful and diverse individuals (like you). My training largely comes from this work and through other professionals, in volunteer work, and continued training and consultation. I wholeheartedly believe that the you are the expert on you-- even during confusing times when you question yourself, how you got here, or where you are going. Let me join with you in a safe, positive, professional partnership in order for us to figure out how you can realize your true potential.
Hello and congratulations! You are one step closer to stepping out of emotional pain and into some relief. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with beautiful and diverse individuals (like you). My training largely comes from this work and through other professionals, in volunteer work, and continued training and consultation. I wholeheartedly believe that the you are the expert on you-- even during confusing times when you question yourself, how you got here, or where you are going. Let me join with you in a safe, positive, professional partnership in order for us to figure out how you can realize your true potential.
(502) 906-6170 View (502) 906-6170
Photo of Brittany Bundy Wilson, LPCC-S, Counselor
Brittany Bundy Wilson
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here. I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor with 13 years of experience in helping individuals and couples navigate their unique journeys of self-discovery and growth. I firmly believe that the work we do on ourselves is the most challenging yet incredibly rewarding, work we could ever do. I approach therapy with a deep respect for each client's lived experiences and genuine commitment to creating a trusting and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. In our sessions you can expect an empathetic and collaborative approach to exploring your unique challenges and goals.
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here. I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor with 13 years of experience in helping individuals and couples navigate their unique journeys of self-discovery and growth. I firmly believe that the work we do on ourselves is the most challenging yet incredibly rewarding, work we could ever do. I approach therapy with a deep respect for each client's lived experiences and genuine commitment to creating a trusting and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. In our sessions you can expect an empathetic and collaborative approach to exploring your unique challenges and goals.
(502) 225-1348 View (502) 225-1348
Photo of Matthew Frye, LPCC, Counselor
Matthew Frye
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
In my experience with working with individuals from all walks of life, a nearly universal thread that I see underlying most mental health and substance abuse struggles are histories of trauma. This life is hard and this world is cruel. Therefore, most of my practice comes from an understanding of the intergenerational effects and ongoing disruption that a single traumatic event can pose on an individual’s wellbeing. Utilizing CBT, DBT, and ACT, my goal is to help clients heal in a holistic manner.
In my experience with working with individuals from all walks of life, a nearly universal thread that I see underlying most mental health and substance abuse struggles are histories of trauma. This life is hard and this world is cruel. Therefore, most of my practice comes from an understanding of the intergenerational effects and ongoing disruption that a single traumatic event can pose on an individual’s wellbeing. Utilizing CBT, DBT, and ACT, my goal is to help clients heal in a holistic manner.
(502) 490-2196 View (502) 490-2196
Photo of Stephanie Vittitoe, MA, LPCC-S
Stephanie Vittitoe
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324  (Online Only)
Currently conducting telehealth sessions only. Making the decision to enter into counseling can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain and fearful. It’s never easy to trust someone you just recently met and face difficult and painful parts of your life. When you take that first step into my office you will be met with a safe place free from judgment, an empathetic ear as well as my promise to support you through this process. I provide services for all ages as well as families and couples. I have experience with LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders.
Currently conducting telehealth sessions only. Making the decision to enter into counseling can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain and fearful. It’s never easy to trust someone you just recently met and face difficult and painful parts of your life. When you take that first step into my office you will be met with a safe place free from judgment, an empathetic ear as well as my promise to support you through this process. I provide services for all ages as well as families and couples. I have experience with LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders.
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Photo of Dr. Michelle Muncy, LMFT, LCADC, CBIS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Michelle Muncy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCADC, CBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
We all have tools we rely on to get through life, the problem is some of us have the wrong or broken tools. We keep trying to fix the problem with what we have, when what is needed is new tools. That is what you will find with me, the tools you need to tackle the issues you are facing.
We all have tools we rely on to get through life, the problem is some of us have the wrong or broken tools. We keep trying to fix the problem with what we have, when what is needed is new tools. That is what you will find with me, the tools you need to tackle the issues you are facing.
(502) 236-1029 View (502) 236-1029
Photo of Alison Winger, LPCC
Alison Winger
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
Waitlist for new clients
People come to therapy for many different reasons -- anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma, and more. I believe that no problem is too small or too big to work with in the counseling relationship. Therapy allows us to bring our biggest fears and insecurities to light in a safe place and learn how to accept and deal with them, utilizing strengths we already have and learning new techniques to help alleviate suffering.
People come to therapy for many different reasons -- anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma, and more. I believe that no problem is too small or too big to work with in the counseling relationship. Therapy allows us to bring our biggest fears and insecurities to light in a safe place and learn how to accept and deal with them, utilizing strengths we already have and learning new techniques to help alleviate suffering.
(859) 518-8534 View (859) 518-8534
Photo of Carrie Lawson, LPCC, Counselor
Carrie Lawson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Carrie Lawson is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She earned both her bachelor's degree in Human Services and Counseling and her master's degree in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson School of Professional Counseling. Carrie has over 8 years' experience working with children and families in outpatient, schools, and in-home settings. She works with clients from early childhood to teenage years. Carrie provides individual, family, and group treatment services.
Carrie Lawson is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She earned both her bachelor's degree in Human Services and Counseling and her master's degree in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson School of Professional Counseling. Carrie has over 8 years' experience working with children and families in outpatient, schools, and in-home settings. She works with clients from early childhood to teenage years. Carrie provides individual, family, and group treatment services.
(502) 317-0651 View (502) 317-0651
Photo of Kenya Manley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenya Manley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Kenya Manley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Bachelor of Social work from Morehead State University and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Kenya has 8 years of experience working in the community and in corrections. She provides services to individuals via telehealth. As a neurodivergent person herself Kenya understands how draining it can be to find a therapist that is the right match for you. She believes individuals should be encouraged to advocate for themselves and their symptoms while being provided psychoeducation along the way.
Kenya Manley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Bachelor of Social work from Morehead State University and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Kenya has 8 years of experience working in the community and in corrections. She provides services to individuals via telehealth. As a neurodivergent person herself Kenya understands how draining it can be to find a therapist that is the right match for you. She believes individuals should be encouraged to advocate for themselves and their symptoms while being provided psychoeducation along the way.
(502) 289-6547 View (502) 289-6547
Photo of John Hensley, LPCC, Counselor
John Hensley
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
John Hensley is a licensed professional clinical counselor and national certified counselor. He received his master's degree in Counseling and Human Development and his bachelor's degree in Human Services and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College. He utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). He works with clients ages 6 to 65 and specializes in adjustment disorder, anger management, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, LGBT services, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management.
John Hensley is a licensed professional clinical counselor and national certified counselor. He received his master's degree in Counseling and Human Development and his bachelor's degree in Human Services and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College. He utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). He works with clients ages 6 to 65 and specializes in adjustment disorder, anger management, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, LGBT services, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management.
(502) 236-1450 View (502) 236-1450
Photo of Tonya R. Branham, MEd, LPCC, NCC, NCCE, NCPC, Counselor
Tonya R. Branham
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, NCC, NCCE, NCPC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Many families find themselves struggling with divorce and post-divorce related issues. My ideal client is looking for the "silver lining" in a difficult situation and may feel stuck, hopeless, powerless, angry, or fearful about the future.
Many families find themselves struggling with divorce and post-divorce related issues. My ideal client is looking for the "silver lining" in a difficult situation and may feel stuck, hopeless, powerless, angry, or fearful about the future.
(502) 804-2786 View (502) 804-2786
Photo of Cathy Allen, MA, M, Ed, LPCC-S, Counselor
Cathy Allen
Counselor, MA, M, Ed, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324  (Online Only)
I can help individuals and families navigate difficult situations by providing evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I utilize these techniques by establishing a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients. My goals are to motivate my clients and challenge them with a more higher order thinking approach while incorporating mindfulness and emotional regulations. I have also utilized (SIP) Somatic Integration Processing for my clients who work best from a bottom-up approach opposed to a top-down approach.
I can help individuals and families navigate difficult situations by providing evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I utilize these techniques by establishing a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients. My goals are to motivate my clients and challenge them with a more higher order thinking approach while incorporating mindfulness and emotional regulations. I have also utilized (SIP) Somatic Integration Processing for my clients who work best from a bottom-up approach opposed to a top-down approach.
(502) 399-8162 View (502) 399-8162
Photo of Jonamarie (Jc) Laurila, LPC Intern
Jonamarie (Jc) Laurila
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Feeling lost in a relationship or overwhelmed by addiction? Life's path can seem unclear. If you're preparing for marriage, healing from past hurts, or longing for trust, you don't have to face it alone. At New Life Solutions LLC in Georgetown, KY, I'm a counseling intern, eager to walk this journey with you. Under expert supervision, we can make things brighter.
Feeling lost in a relationship or overwhelmed by addiction? Life's path can seem unclear. If you're preparing for marriage, healing from past hurts, or longing for trust, you don't have to face it alone. At New Life Solutions LLC in Georgetown, KY, I'm a counseling intern, eager to walk this journey with you. Under expert supervision, we can make things brighter.
(502) 680-8544 View (502) 680-8544
Photo of Tiffany Thomas, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324
Motherhood can be hard, but access to support and help should not be. As a therapist, and a mother myself, I have found that mothers are an overlooked population, where help, support, and advocacy is needed the most. I strive to help those in all phases, from the beginning stages of preparing, to pregnancy, and through post-partum transitions and potential difficulties that may arise. If you are struggling with new adjustments related to transitions of motherhood, know that you are not alone.
Motherhood can be hard, but access to support and help should not be. As a therapist, and a mother myself, I have found that mothers are an overlooked population, where help, support, and advocacy is needed the most. I strive to help those in all phases, from the beginning stages of preparing, to pregnancy, and through post-partum transitions and potential difficulties that may arise. If you are struggling with new adjustments related to transitions of motherhood, know that you are not alone.
(859) 605-3083 View (859) 605-3083
Photo of Dr. Teresa Jacobson, DBH, LPCC-S, NCC
Dr. Teresa Jacobson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, DBH, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are experiencing difficult emotions due to illness, chronic pain, trauma and/or grief, I'd love to help you. I have many years of experience providing a safe space for people of all walks of life with tragic losses in health, life, and love. Together, we will find solutions. I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky and Ohio providing non-judgmental, skillful counseling. Designated a National Certified Counselor since 2013, I utilize evidence-based neuroscience mind and body modalities like EMDR, PRT, Somatic Tracking, integrating self-compassion and cognitive strategies.
If you are experiencing difficult emotions due to illness, chronic pain, trauma and/or grief, I'd love to help you. I have many years of experience providing a safe space for people of all walks of life with tragic losses in health, life, and love. Together, we will find solutions. I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky and Ohio providing non-judgmental, skillful counseling. Designated a National Certified Counselor since 2013, I utilize evidence-based neuroscience mind and body modalities like EMDR, PRT, Somatic Tracking, integrating self-compassion and cognitive strategies.
(513) 206-3026 View (513) 206-3026
Photo of Graciela Ines Robinson, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Graciela Ines Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
Feelings repeat themselves and if we do not know what we are feeling, how then do we learn to address them in ways that are healthy and helpful in our life relationships? Recognizing those feelings and discovering healthy and effective approaches to address them is possible. My work began with girls 12-17; then adults struggling with life issues such as trauma, substance abuse, and lifetime illnesses. I have assisted Latinos and their families navigate and understand the effects emotional health has on one's life. I am bi-lingual and bi-cultural, fluent in Spanish.
Feelings repeat themselves and if we do not know what we are feeling, how then do we learn to address them in ways that are healthy and helpful in our life relationships? Recognizing those feelings and discovering healthy and effective approaches to address them is possible. My work began with girls 12-17; then adults struggling with life issues such as trauma, substance abuse, and lifetime illnesses. I have assisted Latinos and their families navigate and understand the effects emotional health has on one's life. I am bi-lingual and bi-cultural, fluent in Spanish.
(502) 806-8892 View (502) 806-8892
Photo of Jeff A Chapman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff A Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
Sometimes life can seem to hit us all at once and we can feel overwhelmed and talking to a friend is just not cutting it. Therapy can provide a safe place to discuss what we are going through, help to develop new coping skills and to have someone help us process our thoughts and to guide us to making healthy decisions to bring our life back into balance. I will provide straightforward/non-judgmental guidance through whatever problem you want to work though.
Sometimes life can seem to hit us all at once and we can feel overwhelmed and talking to a friend is just not cutting it. Therapy can provide a safe place to discuss what we are going through, help to develop new coping skills and to have someone help us process our thoughts and to guide us to making healthy decisions to bring our life back into balance. I will provide straightforward/non-judgmental guidance through whatever problem you want to work though.
(502) 369-0249 View (502) 369-0249
Photo of Joe C Nelson, DSW, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe C Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
There is no such thing as an ideal client. That is too boring. The way I do therapy is relaxed. I am not your average therapist, and I am not going to be like, "How does that make you feel?" but I am going to say, "What up! How are we doing today?" I never stop learning, and when you have me as a therapist, you will see that you will fall back in love with learning. Overall, I am just honored you allowed me to help you! Also, the best way to reach me is to Email over calling due to normally being in session, and I want to respond to you as quickly as possible!
There is no such thing as an ideal client. That is too boring. The way I do therapy is relaxed. I am not your average therapist, and I am not going to be like, "How does that make you feel?" but I am going to say, "What up! How are we doing today?" I never stop learning, and when you have me as a therapist, you will see that you will fall back in love with learning. Overall, I am just honored you allowed me to help you! Also, the best way to reach me is to Email over calling due to normally being in session, and I want to respond to you as quickly as possible!
(502) 427-7937 View (502) 427-7937
Photo of Stacy Springston, , EdD, NCC, Counselor
Stacy Springston
Counselor, EdD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
In my 20-plus years in mental health, I have worked with individuals from ALL walks of life including prominent professionals, fellow clinicians, and a vast variety of others. This broad spectrum has taught me many valuable lessons, but one holds true; everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. In my experience, it is the client who recognizes a problem and is determined to correct it, who does the best in therapy. My primary goal is to meet you human to human in the most objective space possible. I can assure you a safe, confidential space with a compassionate ear.
In my 20-plus years in mental health, I have worked with individuals from ALL walks of life including prominent professionals, fellow clinicians, and a vast variety of others. This broad spectrum has taught me many valuable lessons, but one holds true; everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. In my experience, it is the client who recognizes a problem and is determined to correct it, who does the best in therapy. My primary goal is to meet you human to human in the most objective space possible. I can assure you a safe, confidential space with a compassionate ear.
(502) 316-7484 View (502) 316-7484

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 40324

80+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 40324 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Coping Skills
79% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
68% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Humana

How Therapists in 40324 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 40324?

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.