Photo of LaRisha Hanks, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaRisha Hanks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and have experience providing individual therapy and group therapy. I approach therapy from a strengths based perspective and believe in the collaboration between me and my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals and healing from past traumas. Together we will become a team. I will support, affirm, and empower you while giving you the tools necessary to grow and heal. I specialize in working with youth and adults who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and have experience providing individual therapy and group therapy. I approach therapy from a strengths based perspective and believe in the collaboration between me and my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals and healing from past traumas. Together we will become a team. I will support, affirm, and empower you while giving you the tools necessary to grow and heal. I specialize in working with youth and adults who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(317) 842-5555 View (317) 842-5555
Photo of Carla Whitted - Indy Women's Counseling and DBT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Indy Women's Counseling and DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
At Indy Women's Counseling, we have the privilege of seeing women heal from trauma, depression, and anxiety every day. We get to walk alongside as you remove the barriers between you and the life you want and deserve. We, as women, need a protected and encouraging space to take a "pause" from daily life to think about what we want in our lives and how to get there. Indy Women's Counseling is that space. We also offer more than "talk therapy." We are trained in evidence-based therapies that work. We will help you develop skills and techniques that will empower you as you begin to see yourself as your own healer.
At Indy Women's Counseling, we have the privilege of seeing women heal from trauma, depression, and anxiety every day. We get to walk alongside as you remove the barriers between you and the life you want and deserve. We, as women, need a protected and encouraging space to take a "pause" from daily life to think about what we want in our lives and how to get there. Indy Women's Counseling is that space. We also offer more than "talk therapy." We are trained in evidence-based therapies that work. We will help you develop skills and techniques that will empower you as you begin to see yourself as your own healer.
(463) 444-8876 View (463) 444-8876
Photo of Lauren Salazar, MA, LMFT, LAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Salazar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
I earned my undergraduate degree in Addiction Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University. Additionally, I obtained my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Indiana Wesleyan University. I have clinical experience working in predominately residential and outpatient settings. I commonly work with adolescents, adults, and families pursuing recovery from alcohol and/or other substance abuse issues. My focus and clinical interests center around the following: improving marital satisfaction and connection; depression; anxiety; increasing self-esteem and self-worth; trauma; increasing family cohesion.
I earned my undergraduate degree in Addiction Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University. Additionally, I obtained my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Indiana Wesleyan University. I have clinical experience working in predominately residential and outpatient settings. I commonly work with adolescents, adults, and families pursuing recovery from alcohol and/or other substance abuse issues. My focus and clinical interests center around the following: improving marital satisfaction and connection; depression; anxiety; increasing self-esteem and self-worth; trauma; increasing family cohesion.
(317) 961-8677 View (317) 961-8677
Photo of Kelly Cremer, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Kelly Cremer
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and encouraging space where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, hopes, and struggles. I aim to empower clients with the tools and skills necessary to effectively manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I enjoy working with teens, college students, and adults as they navigate life's challenges. We'll work together towards enhancing your self-awareness, building resilience, and fostering a greater sense of self-acceptance and growth.
As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and encouraging space where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, hopes, and struggles. I aim to empower clients with the tools and skills necessary to effectively manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I enjoy working with teens, college students, and adults as they navigate life's challenges. We'll work together towards enhancing your self-awareness, building resilience, and fostering a greater sense of self-acceptance and growth.
(317) 648-9320 View (317) 648-9320
Photo of Jennifer Mysogland, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Mysogland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
In my practice, I provide mental health therapy for individuals and families with specialty in trauma/complex trauma, attachment, grief/loss and adoption. I value coming alongside clients by providing support and empathy while also equipping them with tools for healing and success. I tailor therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual and family, with a holistic perspective. I believe the client/therapist relationship is foundational to the healing process and while I am trained in advanced modalities; this connection remains a priority in my practice as a facilitator of change.
In my practice, I provide mental health therapy for individuals and families with specialty in trauma/complex trauma, attachment, grief/loss and adoption. I value coming alongside clients by providing support and empathy while also equipping them with tools for healing and success. I tailor therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual and family, with a holistic perspective. I believe the client/therapist relationship is foundational to the healing process and while I am trained in advanced modalities; this connection remains a priority in my practice as a facilitator of change.
(317) 480-1510 View (317) 480-1510
Photo of Jacqueline Elster, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Jacqueline Elster
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038  (Online Only)
Healing starts with hope. Whether you are trying to cope with crisis, loss or other stressful life events or you simply want insight into the factors interfering with living a fuller, more satisfying life, therapy can help. As a psychologist, I provide therapy that facilitates change, growth and renewal in a supportive, confidential environment. I have a straightforward, problem-solving style that is accepting and emotionally engaged. My goal is to partner with you to identify core issues and find solutions to the problems that brought you to counseling while building on your strengths to help you overcome challenges.
Healing starts with hope. Whether you are trying to cope with crisis, loss or other stressful life events or you simply want insight into the factors interfering with living a fuller, more satisfying life, therapy can help. As a psychologist, I provide therapy that facilitates change, growth and renewal in a supportive, confidential environment. I have a straightforward, problem-solving style that is accepting and emotionally engaged. My goal is to partner with you to identify core issues and find solutions to the problems that brought you to counseling while building on your strengths to help you overcome challenges.
(317) 793-2357 View (317) 793-2357
Photo of Audra Carter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Audra Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Are you feeling stuck in unhealthy communication, emotional, and relational patterns? Are you ready to begin healing from situations that have left you feeling hurt, confused, stressed, and overwhelmed? I understand reaching out for help can be one of the scariest, yet bravest, things a person can face. I provide a safe and trusting environment where my clients can begin processing through those uncomfortable life moments.
Are you feeling stuck in unhealthy communication, emotional, and relational patterns? Are you ready to begin healing from situations that have left you feeling hurt, confused, stressed, and overwhelmed? I understand reaching out for help can be one of the scariest, yet bravest, things a person can face. I provide a safe and trusting environment where my clients can begin processing through those uncomfortable life moments.
(317) 662-4568 View (317) 662-4568
Photo of Courtney Terrell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Courtney Terrell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I provide therapy that works. My holistic approach helps clients overcome anxiety, insecurity, and trauma. Because I am focused on my client’s strengths, they rise above hardships, achieve their goals, and cultivate authentic relationships. My self-empowerment model helps people identify patterns and get unstuck. Our work together is collaborative and individualized. I draw on IFS, psychodynamic theories, and EMDR to help you live intentionally and joyfully.
I provide therapy that works. My holistic approach helps clients overcome anxiety, insecurity, and trauma. Because I am focused on my client’s strengths, they rise above hardships, achieve their goals, and cultivate authentic relationships. My self-empowerment model helps people identify patterns and get unstuck. Our work together is collaborative and individualized. I draw on IFS, psychodynamic theories, and EMDR to help you live intentionally and joyfully.
(317) 458-9320 View (317) 458-9320
Photo of Eleanor Clark, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Eleanor Clark
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
As I once desperately needed a trustworthy therapist to navigate the most difficult seasons of my life, my dream career has been fulfilled by being that person for others. My experience began by treating eating disorders in inpatient, residential and partial hospitalization, where I observed the devastation eating disorders cause - and that it's about so much more than food and weight. Now in outpatient, I especially love treating disordered eating and body image struggles! Since my Christian faith was a central piece of my own recovery, I incorporate it into my work with clients whenever they prefer it.
As I once desperately needed a trustworthy therapist to navigate the most difficult seasons of my life, my dream career has been fulfilled by being that person for others. My experience began by treating eating disorders in inpatient, residential and partial hospitalization, where I observed the devastation eating disorders cause - and that it's about so much more than food and weight. Now in outpatient, I especially love treating disordered eating and body image struggles! Since my Christian faith was a central piece of my own recovery, I incorporate it into my work with clients whenever they prefer it.
(812) 345-8928 View (812) 345-8928
Photo of Sai Marakani, LMHC, Counselor
Sai Marakani
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038  (Online Only)
My clients may be grappling with a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, or navigating life transitions. They might be seeking guidance and support in overcoming past traumas, managing stress, or coping with grief and loss. Whatever their specific struggles, my goal is to provide them with the tools, insights, and empowerment they need to navigate their challenges and find healing. Ultimately, my clients seek therapy because they have a genuine desire for personal growth and transformation. They understand that therapy can serve as a catalyst for positive change.
My clients may be grappling with a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, or navigating life transitions. They might be seeking guidance and support in overcoming past traumas, managing stress, or coping with grief and loss. Whatever their specific struggles, my goal is to provide them with the tools, insights, and empowerment they need to navigate their challenges and find healing. Ultimately, my clients seek therapy because they have a genuine desire for personal growth and transformation. They understand that therapy can serve as a catalyst for positive change.
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Photo of Theresia Paauwe, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Theresia Paauwe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I can help you experience healing and life change quickly, effectively, and with less pain. In recent years, the growing interest and research into neuroscience has significantly impacted counseling techniques. By providing a deeper understanding of the brain's structures and functions, research has led to the development of new interventions that are more effective than traditional therapy in treating various issues. This integration of neuroscience into psychotherapy has led to more personalized and effective treatments. I offer clients an experience that goes beyond traditional talk therapy and leads to transformative change.
I can help you experience healing and life change quickly, effectively, and with less pain. In recent years, the growing interest and research into neuroscience has significantly impacted counseling techniques. By providing a deeper understanding of the brain's structures and functions, research has led to the development of new interventions that are more effective than traditional therapy in treating various issues. This integration of neuroscience into psychotherapy has led to more personalized and effective treatments. I offer clients an experience that goes beyond traditional talk therapy and leads to transformative change.
(317) 434-0747 View (317) 434-0747
Photo of P. Scott Sweet, LCSW, LCAC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
P. Scott Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing challenges that affect their quality of life. I see individuals who struggle with anger, anxiety, depression and mood swings, which may be coupled with addictive thinking or behaviors, to help find calm amidst the chaos in one's life. I believe couples are a system, yet individually bring their own pain that is transmitted to one's partner. I am committed to helping couples transform their own pain with the support of their partner to be available to the joys of a committed partnership.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing challenges that affect their quality of life. I see individuals who struggle with anger, anxiety, depression and mood swings, which may be coupled with addictive thinking or behaviors, to help find calm amidst the chaos in one's life. I believe couples are a system, yet individually bring their own pain that is transmitted to one's partner. I am committed to helping couples transform their own pain with the support of their partner to be available to the joys of a committed partnership.
(317) 707-6270 View (317) 707-6270
Photo of Lisa Willis, MSSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Willis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
If you or your child are suffering from an OCD or an anxiety disorder you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness and yet most sufferers do not have access effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety there is help. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and more specifically exposure therapy has repeatedly shown to be the most effective approach for defeating anxiety and OCD.
If you or your child are suffering from an OCD or an anxiety disorder you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness and yet most sufferers do not have access effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety there is help. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and more specifically exposure therapy has repeatedly shown to be the most effective approach for defeating anxiety and OCD.
(463) 220-4123 View (463) 220-4123
Photo of Kate O'Bryan Robinson, MPA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate O'Bryan Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families helping them navigate through life’s most difficult challenges and transitions. Prior to private practice, I worked as a mitigation specialist, pediatric social worker, and with victims of violent crime. My experience has offered me the opportunity to guide individuals and families through their trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families helping them navigate through life’s most difficult challenges and transitions. Prior to private practice, I worked as a mitigation specialist, pediatric social worker, and with victims of violent crime. My experience has offered me the opportunity to guide individuals and families through their trauma.
(317) 854-0181 View (317) 854-0181
Photo of Casiana Warfield, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Casiana Warfield
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves to feel understood. For many, therapy can be that place to feel seen and find ways to improve their lives. I am honored to provide that space. I offer psychological care for those experiencing a range of mental health and relational concerns. As a clinical psychologist, I guide my clients in building a life worth living.
Everyone deserves to feel understood. For many, therapy can be that place to feel seen and find ways to improve their lives. I am honored to provide that space. I offer psychological care for those experiencing a range of mental health and relational concerns. As a clinical psychologist, I guide my clients in building a life worth living.
(317) 961-2916 View (317) 961-2916
Photo of Melinda Humbert, LMHC, Counselor
Melinda Humbert
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Melinda Humbert is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. As a Mental Health Counselor, Melinda loves partnering with clients to co-create their recovery and personal growth. She uses a client-centered, strengths-based perspective to help clients achieve their desired well-being. Melinda's practice experience has focused on serving the mental health needs of students, both higher education and K-12, as well as working with adults. She has a specialty for working with neuro-diverse teen and adult clients, including those living with giftedness and twice-exceptional experiences.
Melinda Humbert is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. As a Mental Health Counselor, Melinda loves partnering with clients to co-create their recovery and personal growth. She uses a client-centered, strengths-based perspective to help clients achieve their desired well-being. Melinda's practice experience has focused on serving the mental health needs of students, both higher education and K-12, as well as working with adults. She has a specialty for working with neuro-diverse teen and adult clients, including those living with giftedness and twice-exceptional experiences.
(317) 751-2101 View (317) 751-2101
Photo of Kisha L. Parker, MA, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kisha L. Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038  (Online Only)
Currently rendering services for individual adults ONLY via online therapy sessions.
Currently rendering services for individual adults ONLY via online therapy sessions.
(317) 620-8898 View (317) 620-8898
Photo of Rachel Severs, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Severs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Rachel Severs is a clinical psychologist with training across the lifespan. She has a doctoral degree in psychology from Western Kentucky University. She provides individual, group, and family therapies, as well as assessment services for patients. Her specialization areas focus on neurodevelopmental disorders, patients with complex medical conditions, and working with parents of children with special needs. She also has a passion for working with mothers and addressing women's issues. She has extensive experience assessing and treating school-age children and adolescents with attention and learning concerns (e. g.
Rachel Severs is a clinical psychologist with training across the lifespan. She has a doctoral degree in psychology from Western Kentucky University. She provides individual, group, and family therapies, as well as assessment services for patients. Her specialization areas focus on neurodevelopmental disorders, patients with complex medical conditions, and working with parents of children with special needs. She also has a passion for working with mothers and addressing women's issues. She has extensive experience assessing and treating school-age children and adolescents with attention and learning concerns (e. g.
(463) 255-6271 View (463) 255-6271
Photo of Jennifer Lymberopoulos, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Lymberopoulos
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I strongly believe in the power of play as it allows children to explore, create, and problem solve in a safe and fun environment. Whether it's facilitating play-based therapy sessions with your child, providing support and guidance for new moms, or offering resources and tools for strengthening the bond between you and your child, I am committed to helping families thrive and grow together. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and your family on this journey of development and growth. Please reach out if I can help!
I strongly believe in the power of play as it allows children to explore, create, and problem solve in a safe and fun environment. Whether it's facilitating play-based therapy sessions with your child, providing support and guidance for new moms, or offering resources and tools for strengthening the bond between you and your child, I am committed to helping families thrive and grow together. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and your family on this journey of development and growth. Please reach out if I can help!
(317) 720-3288 View (317) 720-3288
Photo of Taylor Leamon Stephens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Leamon Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. My name is Taylor, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My areas of expertise are in treating addiction, anxiety, trauma, depression, and behavioral concerns. I take a client-centered strengths-based approach to counseling in an effort to help others reach their goals. I have been fortunate enough to obtain several years of experience in working with both children and adults. I look forward to collaborating with you and helping you to reach your goals or overcome whatever distress has motivated you to consider therapy.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. My name is Taylor, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My areas of expertise are in treating addiction, anxiety, trauma, depression, and behavioral concerns. I take a client-centered strengths-based approach to counseling in an effort to help others reach their goals. I have been fortunate enough to obtain several years of experience in working with both children and adults. I look forward to collaborating with you and helping you to reach your goals or overcome whatever distress has motivated you to consider therapy.
(765) 207-5363 View (765) 207-5363

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 46038

200+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 46038 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
68% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Anthem | Elevance
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna

How Therapists in 46038 see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 46038?

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.