Photo of Faith Costea, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith Costea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I have found that everyone struggles in one way or another at some time in their lives. It is how we grow and adapt to those struggles that define who we are and how we live the rest of our lives. I have partnered with clients in order to assist them with turning these struggles into times of learning, growing and healing.
I have found that everyone struggles in one way or another at some time in their lives. It is how we grow and adapt to those struggles that define who we are and how we live the rest of our lives. I have partnered with clients in order to assist them with turning these struggles into times of learning, growing and healing.
(269) 248-5987 View (269) 248-5987
Photo of Dr. LaSonda Wells, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. LaSonda Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Not accepting new clients
Simply put, I am passionate about helping others find growth and development that inspires continued betterment of self. My approach to counseling is developmental and holistic. As a part of life, struggles will come and are necessary for personal growth and the ability to successfully overcome adversity. I am here to assist you with Your Conversion, Your Change and ultimately Your Transformation! To that end, I am here to help you develop a plan toward your commitment to becoming your best you!
Simply put, I am passionate about helping others find growth and development that inspires continued betterment of self. My approach to counseling is developmental and holistic. As a part of life, struggles will come and are necessary for personal growth and the ability to successfully overcome adversity. I am here to assist you with Your Conversion, Your Change and ultimately Your Transformation! To that end, I am here to help you develop a plan toward your commitment to becoming your best you!
(269) 280-2740 View (269) 280-2740
Photo of Carrie Dall, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Dall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
It is safe to say, life doesn’t always go according to plan. And at times seeking help and support is the most courageous step you can take. YOU are the narrator of your story, and it is my hope to guide you to be the best possible version of yourself. Over the past 11 years I have worked with clients dealing with chronic illness, situational stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem & depression through an eclectic approach using CBT, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
It is safe to say, life doesn’t always go according to plan. And at times seeking help and support is the most courageous step you can take. YOU are the narrator of your story, and it is my hope to guide you to be the best possible version of yourself. Over the past 11 years I have worked with clients dealing with chronic illness, situational stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem & depression through an eclectic approach using CBT, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
(269) 367-8645 View (269) 367-8645
Photo of Andy Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andy Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I am passionate about working with individuals/couples on relationships and personal growth. Many of my clients are adults facing challenges in romantic or family relationships. This may include conflict, sexual issues/addiction or infidelity. I also specialize in working with adults/young adults on issues such as: identifying life purpose, career choices, stress/burnout, loneliness, depression and anxiety. The goal for all my clients is to find freedom, peace, balance and connection. By the time we've completed therapy, clients often tell me that they have found a deeper understanding of themselves and peace in their relationships.
I am passionate about working with individuals/couples on relationships and personal growth. Many of my clients are adults facing challenges in romantic or family relationships. This may include conflict, sexual issues/addiction or infidelity. I also specialize in working with adults/young adults on issues such as: identifying life purpose, career choices, stress/burnout, loneliness, depression and anxiety. The goal for all my clients is to find freedom, peace, balance and connection. By the time we've completed therapy, clients often tell me that they have found a deeper understanding of themselves and peace in their relationships.
(269) 351-7019 View (269) 351-7019
Photo of Simone S Riggs, LMSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simone S Riggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Everyone experiences struggles and challenges in life. Whether it is divorce, job change, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues; therapy can help improve the outcome during these times. With my 25 years as a clinical social worker I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and groups from all walks of life. I welcome everyone and strive to provide an environment that is open, welcoming, safe and supportive. My goal is to provide you with new skills and tools to help develop insight and resolution during these difficult times.
Everyone experiences struggles and challenges in life. Whether it is divorce, job change, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues; therapy can help improve the outcome during these times. With my 25 years as a clinical social worker I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and groups from all walks of life. I welcome everyone and strive to provide an environment that is open, welcoming, safe and supportive. My goal is to provide you with new skills and tools to help develop insight and resolution during these difficult times.
(734) 799-4641 View (734) 799-4641
Photo of Joe Uppal - The Way Ahead Counseling, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Way Ahead Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
If you are like most people who come to therapy, you've probably felt like you've been running in circles for a long time. Dealing with the same feelings, thoughts, memories, and worries over and over again. In the meantime, you've noticed your life passing you by. What if you could start your life TODAY? What if you don't have to wait? Healing comes from the Latin word for 'wholeness.' To heal is to become whole again. We believe within the pain of suffering can lay our greatest strengths. And there is no part of you that deserves to be cast aside. We don't focus on changing who you are, but on creating the life that you want.
If you are like most people who come to therapy, you've probably felt like you've been running in circles for a long time. Dealing with the same feelings, thoughts, memories, and worries over and over again. In the meantime, you've noticed your life passing you by. What if you could start your life TODAY? What if you don't have to wait? Healing comes from the Latin word for 'wholeness.' To heal is to become whole again. We believe within the pain of suffering can lay our greatest strengths. And there is no part of you that deserves to be cast aside. We don't focus on changing who you are, but on creating the life that you want.
(269) 210-8341 View (269) 210-8341
Photo of Amy Names Wilson, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Names Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
When people have experienced loss, trauma, abuse, chronic stress, addiction or disconnection from others they may develop unhealthy patterns of responding. We can transform many of these patterns through increasing our own awareness. We all carry the answers to our own healing within us. I seek to make working with me accessible and welcoming to all. You are invited to come as you are. I'm here for you when you are feeling stuck, limited by stigma or shame, caught in past hurts, fearful, isolated, or in need of getting back to feeling like you.
When people have experienced loss, trauma, abuse, chronic stress, addiction or disconnection from others they may develop unhealthy patterns of responding. We can transform many of these patterns through increasing our own awareness. We all carry the answers to our own healing within us. I seek to make working with me accessible and welcoming to all. You are invited to come as you are. I'm here for you when you are feeling stuck, limited by stigma or shame, caught in past hurts, fearful, isolated, or in need of getting back to feeling like you.
(269) 668-1013 View (269) 668-1013
Photo of Nichole Holliday, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Holliday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008  (Online Only)
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
(269) 210-3805 View (269) 210-3805
Photo of Ben Weigel, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Weigel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of challenges, which at times, may seem overwhelming. I applaud your courage as you take the first step towards personal growth and empowerment by reaching out for help. You are the expert of your life, and my goal is to meet you where you are at. Together, we can find which road works best for you and I will walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. It is my belief that everyone has tremendous potential and that we all have something unique to give to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
Life is full of challenges, which at times, may seem overwhelming. I applaud your courage as you take the first step towards personal growth and empowerment by reaching out for help. You are the expert of your life, and my goal is to meet you where you are at. Together, we can find which road works best for you and I will walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. It is my belief that everyone has tremendous potential and that we all have something unique to give to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
(269) 225-0237 View (269) 225-0237
Photo of Ruth L Eichler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth L Eichler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Does your marriage need an "upgrade" to restore connection and communication and optimize each of you to get the love you want? I am certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and can assist you in this process. I also work with a variety of methods with individuals who desire greater well being and new or enhanced skills in meeting life's challenges and in moving to new levels of consciousness.
Does your marriage need an "upgrade" to restore connection and communication and optimize each of you to get the love you want? I am certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and can assist you in this process. I also work with a variety of methods with individuals who desire greater well being and new or enhanced skills in meeting life's challenges and in moving to new levels of consciousness.
(269) 205-3436 View (269) 205-3436
Photo of David T Thomas, MA, LPC, Counselor
David T Thomas
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
A trusting and confidential relationship is the foundation for therapy, reducing emotional pain, increasing motivation for change and developing strengths. Through talk therapy we identify values, become aligned with those values as a guide towards health and move from isolation to connection. My style of counseling is centered in the science of being, creating a safe space, and using evidence-based practices. My target is emotional health with a particular emphasis on the unique experience of Black/Afrikan American Men and becoming better for ourselves and our families.
A trusting and confidential relationship is the foundation for therapy, reducing emotional pain, increasing motivation for change and developing strengths. Through talk therapy we identify values, become aligned with those values as a guide towards health and move from isolation to connection. My style of counseling is centered in the science of being, creating a safe space, and using evidence-based practices. My target is emotional health with a particular emphasis on the unique experience of Black/Afrikan American Men and becoming better for ourselves and our families.
(269) 230-9948 View (269) 230-9948
Photo of Faith Nielsen, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Therapy can be your partner in exploration. We'll build a safe space to dive deep into your experiences, emotions, thoughts, and patterns, free from judgment. By exploring the source of your struggles, we'll develop personalized tools that empower you to navigate them with confidence. Therapy isn't a quick fix; it's about self-discovery. Self-discovery empowers you to navigate life's challenges with greater understanding and a sense of control over your journey. Therapy is an investment in you, paving the way for a more fulfilling and empowered future.
Therapy can be your partner in exploration. We'll build a safe space to dive deep into your experiences, emotions, thoughts, and patterns, free from judgment. By exploring the source of your struggles, we'll develop personalized tools that empower you to navigate them with confidence. Therapy isn't a quick fix; it's about self-discovery. Self-discovery empowers you to navigate life's challenges with greater understanding and a sense of control over your journey. Therapy is an investment in you, paving the way for a more fulfilling and empowered future.
(269) 266-8163 View (269) 266-8163
Photo of Leatrice Brooks - Chosen, PLLC, LP, LPC, LMSW, Psychologist
Chosen, PLLC
Psychologist, LP, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
You have just made a very important step towards finding your healing. Our providers are well-trained and prepared to address your concerns and meet your mental health needs. Chosen, PLLC is a safe, collaborative space for you to explore, learn, grow, and develop skills to help you create the life you desire. If you are tired of your current situation or otherwise just feel like a change is in order, you are in the right place.
You have just made a very important step towards finding your healing. Our providers are well-trained and prepared to address your concerns and meet your mental health needs. Chosen, PLLC is a safe, collaborative space for you to explore, learn, grow, and develop skills to help you create the life you desire. If you are tired of your current situation or otherwise just feel like a change is in order, you are in the right place.
(855) 517-0293 View (855) 517-0293
Photo of Gretchen Lamm, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Gretchen Lamm
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Hello, my name is Gretchen and I am a compassionate and caring Limited Licensed Psychologist dedicated to helping you achieve health and wholeness in your spirit, soul and body. I am proud of you for taking a first step in exploring how counseling may benefit you. If you choose to work with me and include me in your journey towards wellness, you should know that creating a safe, honest and productive environment for you to grow is my top priority. This requires great vulnerability on your part and I am honored to step into this work with you.
Hello, my name is Gretchen and I am a compassionate and caring Limited Licensed Psychologist dedicated to helping you achieve health and wholeness in your spirit, soul and body. I am proud of you for taking a first step in exploring how counseling may benefit you. If you choose to work with me and include me in your journey towards wellness, you should know that creating a safe, honest and productive environment for you to grow is my top priority. This requires great vulnerability on your part and I am honored to step into this work with you.
(269) 256-2363 View (269) 256-2363
Photo of Janet Marie Glaes, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Marie Glaes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
At times, people experience a loss of hope and an inability to find meaning in their lives. They may struggle with depression, trauma, grief, addiction, relationship problems, or developmental issues that can affect us at any time across the lifespan. Through counseling, I will work collaboratively with you to resolve your current issues. I also work with parents struggling with raising their children, and couples who struggle with communication issues and/or repeated core conflicts. Our goal will be to develop better ways to manage emotions, improve problem solving strategies, and find new ways to look at the world.
At times, people experience a loss of hope and an inability to find meaning in their lives. They may struggle with depression, trauma, grief, addiction, relationship problems, or developmental issues that can affect us at any time across the lifespan. Through counseling, I will work collaboratively with you to resolve your current issues. I also work with parents struggling with raising their children, and couples who struggle with communication issues and/or repeated core conflicts. Our goal will be to develop better ways to manage emotions, improve problem solving strategies, and find new ways to look at the world.
(269) 237-0186 View (269) 237-0186
Photo of Bryan E Day, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bryan E Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
You are not alone. I am here to provide a safe space to help you through the difficulty of everyday life. I am a therapist who has been working in the mental health field for 19 years. In that time, I have learned that the process of understanding who you are is a lifelong journey. As a trauma informed clinical social worker, I specialize working with adults through a combination of approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. To start your recovery journey today by reaching out.
You are not alone. I am here to provide a safe space to help you through the difficulty of everyday life. I am a therapist who has been working in the mental health field for 19 years. In that time, I have learned that the process of understanding who you are is a lifelong journey. As a trauma informed clinical social worker, I specialize working with adults through a combination of approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. To start your recovery journey today by reaching out.
(269) 241-9974 View (269) 241-9974
Photo of Jessica Rabe, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Rabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Starting therapy is often the hardest part of therapy itself. In order to begin healing or making changes in our lives, it is important we begin to unravel how our past and present environment has shaped how we see ourselves and the world. Therapy allows us to learn things about ourselves that are both uncomfortable and freeing. My approach is to help you identify your strengths, areas of growth and goals you want to meet to begin making changes while accepting that healing and progress are not linear, but rather part of what makes us human.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part of therapy itself. In order to begin healing or making changes in our lives, it is important we begin to unravel how our past and present environment has shaped how we see ourselves and the world. Therapy allows us to learn things about ourselves that are both uncomfortable and freeing. My approach is to help you identify your strengths, areas of growth and goals you want to meet to begin making changes while accepting that healing and progress are not linear, but rather part of what makes us human.
View
Photo of Christina Thomason, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Thomason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Asking for help can be difficult. I understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected , seen and heard. My experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives and to feel empowered making changes in their relationships, careers or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
Asking for help can be difficult. I understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected , seen and heard. My experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives and to feel empowered making changes in their relationships, careers or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
(269) 266-8264 View (269) 266-8264
Photo of Lucy Sternburgh, PhD, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Sternburgh
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Trauma can leave us feeling disconnected from others as well as from our true selves. You may be fed up with feeling triggered in everyday situations, isolated from people who don't understand, or guilty over what happened to you. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without the past getting in the way. You’re ready to wake up each morning with purpose. Most of all, you’re ready to move forward with a sense of empowerment and get back to feeling like yourself again.
Trauma can leave us feeling disconnected from others as well as from our true selves. You may be fed up with feeling triggered in everyday situations, isolated from people who don't understand, or guilty over what happened to you. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without the past getting in the way. You’re ready to wake up each morning with purpose. Most of all, you’re ready to move forward with a sense of empowerment and get back to feeling like yourself again.
(269) 280-0741 View (269) 280-0741
Photo of Sue McConnell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue McConnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I am experienced in and enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe no one should have to walk alone through the challenges and difficulties of life. I consider it a privilege to provide support and encouragement to others while helping them to find the hope and healing God offers through His love and grace. I stress the importance of the therapeutic relationship as the means in which to help others gain personal growth and strength in order to live the life God has called them to live. I have been married 33 years and have four adult children.
I am experienced in and enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe no one should have to walk alone through the challenges and difficulties of life. I consider it a privilege to provide support and encouragement to others while helping them to find the hope and healing God offers through His love and grace. I stress the importance of the therapeutic relationship as the means in which to help others gain personal growth and strength in order to live the life God has called them to live. I have been married 33 years and have four adult children.
(269) 220-6307 View (269) 220-6307

See more therapy options for 49008

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 49008

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 49008 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
77% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
69% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Priority Health
67% Aetna

How Therapists in 49008 see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 49008?

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.