Photo of Charlie Health
Charlie Health
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-wi
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-wi
(608) 200-2276 View (608) 200-2276
Photo of Alexis Gade, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Gade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Alexis Gade and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I strive to offer clients a safe and compassionate environment to explore barriers they might be facing that are preventing them from living to their full potential as well as identifying strengths to achieve their goals. I utilize strategies from various modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to create a tailored, individualized approach to therapy.
Hello! My name is Alexis Gade and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I strive to offer clients a safe and compassionate environment to explore barriers they might be facing that are preventing them from living to their full potential as well as identifying strengths to achieve their goals. I utilize strategies from various modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to create a tailored, individualized approach to therapy.
(608) 602-3989 View (608) 602-3989
Photo of Donald Bialkowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donald Bialkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Donald Bialkowski is a licensed clinical social worker who earned his bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and his master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was inspired to become a therapist by his strong desire to help people who are suffering.
Donald Bialkowski is a licensed clinical social worker who earned his bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and his master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was inspired to become a therapist by his strong desire to help people who are suffering.
(608) 597-3059 View (608) 597-3059
Photo of Jack Gieche, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jack Gieche
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
When you first meet Jack, he might have little Roo tucked up under his arm. This communicates his gentle kindness better than any words could. The son of a veterinarian, Jack clearly has learned to interact with vulnerability with calm tender care. He approaches his work with attentive caution, carefully guiding clients toward healthier adaptations, and kinder inner narratives. Offering Animal Assisted Therapy, Jack sees clients of all ages 4-65+ "” he specializes in working with kids, animal assisted therapy, trauma, AODA, adoption/foster care related issues, communication, couples, and family work.
When you first meet Jack, he might have little Roo tucked up under his arm. This communicates his gentle kindness better than any words could. The son of a veterinarian, Jack clearly has learned to interact with vulnerability with calm tender care. He approaches his work with attentive caution, carefully guiding clients toward healthier adaptations, and kinder inner narratives. Offering Animal Assisted Therapy, Jack sees clients of all ages 4-65+ "” he specializes in working with kids, animal assisted therapy, trauma, AODA, adoption/foster care related issues, communication, couples, and family work.
(608) 384-0945 View (608) 384-0945
Photo of Sarah Shermo, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Shermo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Not accepting new clients
We each hold a narrative inside of our struggles, our pain, our triumphs, our goals and our dreams. I am honored to be able to help you navigate through yours. Through collaborative work we can identify where you are at in your life journey and where you want to go, whether it is substance use, mental health concerns, trauma, life transitions or other needs. My passion is to help others gain personal insight, inner peace and awareness to promote lasting change.
We each hold a narrative inside of our struggles, our pain, our triumphs, our goals and our dreams. I am honored to be able to help you navigate through yours. Through collaborative work we can identify where you are at in your life journey and where you want to go, whether it is substance use, mental health concerns, trauma, life transitions or other needs. My passion is to help others gain personal insight, inner peace and awareness to promote lasting change.
View
Photo of Mercy Maxan Greenwald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mercy Maxan Greenwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Clients that I see come from all sorts of backgrounds and present with diverse challenges and strengths. Many of the clients I work with are living with complex trauma, due to both the individual challenges they've faced in their lives, but also due to living in a society that has been structured to dehumanize and marginalize many people. I work with clients collaboratively, not only to see the ways in which they want to change behaviors/thoughts/patterns in how they are in the world, but also to develop resiliency and strength to face the systemic barriers that challenge their ability to live full and joyful lives.
Clients that I see come from all sorts of backgrounds and present with diverse challenges and strengths. Many of the clients I work with are living with complex trauma, due to both the individual challenges they've faced in their lives, but also due to living in a society that has been structured to dehumanize and marginalize many people. I work with clients collaboratively, not only to see the ways in which they want to change behaviors/thoughts/patterns in how they are in the world, but also to develop resiliency and strength to face the systemic barriers that challenge their ability to live full and joyful lives.
(608) 292-5863 View (608) 292-5863
Photo of Jocelyn Marks, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jocelyn Marks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
I want to help empower you to be your best self. Sometimes we reach a point in life where we feel stuck and we ask ourselves if healing is possible. As humans, we can struggle when we carry unresolved trauma or stress, which can cause us to hold onto negative beliefs. These beliefs impact the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. I want to help you heal and grow from your past experiences, so that you can feel empowered and able to trust yourself to reach your potential.
I want to help empower you to be your best self. Sometimes we reach a point in life where we feel stuck and we ask ourselves if healing is possible. As humans, we can struggle when we carry unresolved trauma or stress, which can cause us to hold onto negative beliefs. These beliefs impact the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. I want to help you heal and grow from your past experiences, so that you can feel empowered and able to trust yourself to reach your potential.
(608) 200-3286 View (608) 200-3286
Photo of Vanessa Verran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Verran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Vanessa is a Masters Level licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities and her Graduate Degree from Edgewood College. Vanessa provides services to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She has worked with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma disorders, adjustment disorders, and relational disorders. Vanessa specifically enjoys working with couples and individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder and/or borderline personality disorder.
Vanessa is a Masters Level licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities and her Graduate Degree from Edgewood College. Vanessa provides services to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She has worked with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma disorders, adjustment disorders, and relational disorders. Vanessa specifically enjoys working with couples and individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder and/or borderline personality disorder.
(608) 470-6284 View (608) 470-6284
Photo of Deseree Nehrkorn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deseree Nehrkorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Deseree Nehrkorn is a Licensed Professional Counselor in WI. She received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and her Bachelor's in Clinical Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Deseree creates a safe, inclusive space free from judgment or shame to provide quality, strength based treatment. She effectively collaborates with clients to identify their specific goals to empower each person to live their best life.
Deseree Nehrkorn is a Licensed Professional Counselor in WI. She received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and her Bachelor's in Clinical Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Deseree creates a safe, inclusive space free from judgment or shame to provide quality, strength based treatment. She effectively collaborates with clients to identify their specific goals to empower each person to live their best life.
(608) 597-6335 View (608) 597-6335
Photo of Nicole Krapf, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Krapf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Hi, I'm Nicole. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialized training and experience providing trauma informed care and neurodivergent affirming care. I am not here to fix you; I am here to collaborate with you to discover your unique strengths, interests, and support needs. I can support you in not only addressing your symptoms, but deepening the understanding that you have of yourself and your family. I integrate mindfulness, parts work, therapeutic play, and self compassion skills to aid in processing, healing, and emotion regulation.
Hi, I'm Nicole. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialized training and experience providing trauma informed care and neurodivergent affirming care. I am not here to fix you; I am here to collaborate with you to discover your unique strengths, interests, and support needs. I can support you in not only addressing your symptoms, but deepening the understanding that you have of yourself and your family. I integrate mindfulness, parts work, therapeutic play, and self compassion skills to aid in processing, healing, and emotion regulation.
(608) 200-5990 View (608) 200-5990
Photo of Katie Lindskog, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Lindskog
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Are you adjusting to or anticipate a big life transition such as school, a new career, a relationship, parenthood or a move and it's causing you anxiety? Conflicted about how to approach a current struggle with a loved one or at your job and it's keeping you up at night with worry? Or do you have some negative experiences from the past that just keep you feeling stuck? I understand the struggles in finding a therapist who understands. You don't have to figure it out on your own or stay "stuck in your head" anymore.
Are you adjusting to or anticipate a big life transition such as school, a new career, a relationship, parenthood or a move and it's causing you anxiety? Conflicted about how to approach a current struggle with a loved one or at your job and it's keeping you up at night with worry? Or do you have some negative experiences from the past that just keep you feeling stuck? I understand the struggles in finding a therapist who understands. You don't have to figure it out on your own or stay "stuck in your head" anymore.
(262) 355-4797 View (262) 355-4797
Photo of Amy Harvat, MA, LPC, Counselor
Amy Harvat
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Are you struggling with pain and trauma from your past? Is your anxiety overwhelming you and causing issues in your relationship? I am passionate about working with women who experience anxiety and trauma. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to care to help you understand yourself from a holistic perspective, develop self-compassion, and increase strategies to manage your stress/conflict/symptoms. Together, we can heal the traumatic wounds from your past using EMDR and develop mental flexibility to help you manage your anxiety. My goal is to help you build a meaningful life that you love!
Are you struggling with pain and trauma from your past? Is your anxiety overwhelming you and causing issues in your relationship? I am passionate about working with women who experience anxiety and trauma. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to care to help you understand yourself from a holistic perspective, develop self-compassion, and increase strategies to manage your stress/conflict/symptoms. Together, we can heal the traumatic wounds from your past using EMDR and develop mental flexibility to help you manage your anxiety. My goal is to help you build a meaningful life that you love!
(608) 200-2484 View (608) 200-2484
Photo of Megan Kaiser, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Kaiser
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
I seek to create a safe, warm, and trusting therapeutic space where clients of all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, and socioeconomic statuses feel supported and heard. I am especially interested in working with trauma, dissociative tendencies, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ populations, identity exploration, attachment, feelings of stuck-ness, and more!
I seek to create a safe, warm, and trusting therapeutic space where clients of all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, and socioeconomic statuses feel supported and heard. I am especially interested in working with trauma, dissociative tendencies, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ populations, identity exploration, attachment, feelings of stuck-ness, and more!
(608) 975-5061 View (608) 975-5061
Photo of Cassie LaMarche, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassie LaMarche
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Struggling with overwhelming thoughts and behaviors? Do you wish to find relief but are really struggling to make the changes that you want to have? Or are you looking for a supportive environment to work on your concerns and talk about things that are going on? Therapy can be intimidating, and I get that. I'm here to help you reach your goals in a comfortable environment.
Struggling with overwhelming thoughts and behaviors? Do you wish to find relief but are really struggling to make the changes that you want to have? Or are you looking for a supportive environment to work on your concerns and talk about things that are going on? Therapy can be intimidating, and I get that. I'm here to help you reach your goals in a comfortable environment.
(608) 496-9898 View (608) 496-9898
Photo of Amanda R Schield, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda R Schield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
I approach therapy from a viewpoint of balance between therapeutic relationship and skills-based intervention that are best fit for the individuals involved. My background in therapy includes primarily working with children, adolescents, and families including youth in foster care. These experiences created a foundation of viewing attachment and secure relationships as a foundation for mental health wellbeing. I continue to practice from this lens and hold it as a central component throughout treatment. From this basis we will consider what approach will work best to help you along your path towards growth and healing.
I approach therapy from a viewpoint of balance between therapeutic relationship and skills-based intervention that are best fit for the individuals involved. My background in therapy includes primarily working with children, adolescents, and families including youth in foster care. These experiences created a foundation of viewing attachment and secure relationships as a foundation for mental health wellbeing. I continue to practice from this lens and hold it as a central component throughout treatment. From this basis we will consider what approach will work best to help you along your path towards growth and healing.
(608) 602-8191 View (608) 602-8191
Photo of Jeannie Lindskog, MA, LPC, PSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeannie Lindskog
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PSC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself suffering from more stress and anxiety than usual? I offer exclusively online therapy sessions. I work with clients to raise their self-awareness, understanding and acceptance, in order to facilitate the changes they desire. I work with adults and adolescents around issues of depression, anxiety, stress, loss, family and marital relationships . I have over 30 years of experience and my clinical background spans across age, gender, racial/ethnic groups, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental approach in the therapeutic relationship.
Do you find yourself suffering from more stress and anxiety than usual? I offer exclusively online therapy sessions. I work with clients to raise their self-awareness, understanding and acceptance, in order to facilitate the changes they desire. I work with adults and adolescents around issues of depression, anxiety, stress, loss, family and marital relationships . I have over 30 years of experience and my clinical background spans across age, gender, racial/ethnic groups, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental approach in the therapeutic relationship.
(262) 279-1733 View (262) 279-1733
Photo of Samantha Cunningham, ATR, LPC, SAC-IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Sometimes the journey of life will present challenges that are hard to face alone. As a licensed professional counselor and art therapist, I can walk alongside you with a creative approach on your healing journey. We will collaborate to increase self-compassion, foster resilience, set boundaries and diminish self-defeating thinking to help you live the life you want. I recognize the importance of creating a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment to manifest growth and change.
Sometimes the journey of life will present challenges that are hard to face alone. As a licensed professional counselor and art therapist, I can walk alongside you with a creative approach on your healing journey. We will collaborate to increase self-compassion, foster resilience, set boundaries and diminish self-defeating thinking to help you live the life you want. I recognize the importance of creating a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment to manifest growth and change.
(608) 802-7562 View (608) 802-7562
Photo of Catherine Lindskog - Lakeside Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lakeside Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress in your daily life that keeps you awake at night or ongoing depression that prevents you from feeling motivated? Maybe you've experienced a significant loss or trauma that causes debilitating intrusive thoughts or flashbacks. Additionally, if you are struggling with the stress of university life, setting healthy boundaries, or communication with a partner or family member, we are here to help you explore what is keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping.
Are you struggling with stress in your daily life that keeps you awake at night or ongoing depression that prevents you from feeling motivated? Maybe you've experienced a significant loss or trauma that causes debilitating intrusive thoughts or flashbacks. Additionally, if you are struggling with the stress of university life, setting healthy boundaries, or communication with a partner or family member, we are here to help you explore what is keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping.
(608) 560-5533 View (608) 560-5533
Photo of Kimberly Robertson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Kimberly Robertson (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Wisconsin. Kimberly has over four years of experience specializing in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. Kimberly treats patients between the ages of 15 and 64 utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing.
Kimberly Robertson (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Wisconsin. Kimberly has over four years of experience specializing in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. Kimberly treats patients between the ages of 15 and 64 utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing.
(608) 465-4464 View (608) 465-4464
Photo of Tricia VandenAkker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia VandenAkker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Tricia's down to Earth, no-nonsense approach is very reassuring. You may be confused and uncertain, but she will confidently set you on course and support you as you go. Tricia is comfortable managing a wide range of concerns and situations. She believes in allowing the therapeutic process time to unfold at each client's own unique pace. With over ten years of experience in the mental health field, working in residential, in home and outpatient facilities, Tricia has a strong background in trauma and trauma informed care. She has experience working with diverse populations of clients and employs a high level of cultural sensitivity.
Tricia's down to Earth, no-nonsense approach is very reassuring. You may be confused and uncertain, but she will confidently set you on course and support you as you go. Tricia is comfortable managing a wide range of concerns and situations. She believes in allowing the therapeutic process time to unfold at each client's own unique pace. With over ten years of experience in the mental health field, working in residential, in home and outpatient facilities, Tricia has a strong background in trauma and trauma informed care. She has experience working with diverse populations of clients and employs a high level of cultural sensitivity.
(608) 892-8498 View (608) 892-8498

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 53718

40+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 53718 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
85% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
61% Grief
61% Self Esteem
59% Life Transitions
54% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Anthem | Elevance
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 53718 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 53718?

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.