Photo of Brandy Alexandria Harris - Harris Family Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harris Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Choosing the right therapist is a fundamental part of not only ensuring your therapeutic needs are met but also lays the foundation so that you are able to achieve your goals of obtaining a more balanced emotional state of being. I believe in assisting my clients in identifying their goals, while exploring healthy strategies they can utilize in achieving these goals. Personal growth and happiness is a goal that is unique to each individual and utilizing multiple strategies assist clients in obtaining a healthier sense of self through awareness and insight.
Choosing the right therapist is a fundamental part of not only ensuring your therapeutic needs are met but also lays the foundation so that you are able to achieve your goals of obtaining a more balanced emotional state of being. I believe in assisting my clients in identifying their goals, while exploring healthy strategies they can utilize in achieving these goals. Personal growth and happiness is a goal that is unique to each individual and utilizing multiple strategies assist clients in obtaining a healthier sense of self through awareness and insight.
(323) 894-0325 View (323) 894-0325
Photo of Sydney Woodward, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sydney Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
As a therapist I primarily work with individuals and couples around relationships, intimacy, self esteem, and self worth. Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and concerns about self esteem and body image. I use a feminist lens in my work, meaning that I understand our mental health in the context of the oppressive systems and social constructs that impact us, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender. The majority of my clients are women, women of color, and/or members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially welcoming queer, polyamorous, and kinky individuals and couples to reach out!
As a therapist I primarily work with individuals and couples around relationships, intimacy, self esteem, and self worth. Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and concerns about self esteem and body image. I use a feminist lens in my work, meaning that I understand our mental health in the context of the oppressive systems and social constructs that impact us, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender. The majority of my clients are women, women of color, and/or members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially welcoming queer, polyamorous, and kinky individuals and couples to reach out!
(310) 591-3156 View (310) 591-3156
Photo of Krystal Handy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krystal Handy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90712
I'm Krystal Handy, a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy with 15 years of experience in mental health care. My foundation in multicultural studies and my past experience as a domestic violence legal advocate inform my current approach. I have worked with a wide range of people and clinical problems that keep people stuck. I have worked with men, women, and children who have survived traumatic experiences, along with couple and family relational problems, the transient population, and those with chronic medical problems. I am very committed to helping individuals, couples, and families live their best life now!
I'm Krystal Handy, a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy with 15 years of experience in mental health care. My foundation in multicultural studies and my past experience as a domestic violence legal advocate inform my current approach. I have worked with a wide range of people and clinical problems that keep people stuck. I have worked with men, women, and children who have survived traumatic experiences, along with couple and family relational problems, the transient population, and those with chronic medical problems. I am very committed to helping individuals, couples, and families live their best life now!
(858) 358-5706 View (858) 358-5706
Photo of Manuel Fonseca, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Manuel Fonseca
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
CONGRATULATIONS on taking this step! This is the right time for you to make YOU a priority! I am committed to guiding you on how to improve your overall well-being. I have over 16 years of clinical experience assisting individuals, couples, and families with practical tools to help them manage & overcome difficulties in their lives – I am here to help YOU reach your absolute BEST potential.
CONGRATULATIONS on taking this step! This is the right time for you to make YOU a priority! I am committed to guiding you on how to improve your overall well-being. I have over 16 years of clinical experience assisting individuals, couples, and families with practical tools to help them manage & overcome difficulties in their lives – I am here to help YOU reach your absolute BEST potential.
(626) 604-0719 View (626) 604-0719
Photo of April Alvarez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Hi there, I'm April, a licensed clinical social worker. I have worked with children and adults as well as families in crisis. I have helped people with anxiety, grief, life transitions, infertility, and more. I really enjoy working with Postpartum Depression/Anxiety families as welcoming a child into your family can be both overwhelming and stressful. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy as well as a Strengths-Based Approach. It is my goal as a therapist to provide my clients with the utmost support during their most trying times.
Hi there, I'm April, a licensed clinical social worker. I have worked with children and adults as well as families in crisis. I have helped people with anxiety, grief, life transitions, infertility, and more. I really enjoy working with Postpartum Depression/Anxiety families as welcoming a child into your family can be both overwhelming and stressful. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy as well as a Strengths-Based Approach. It is my goal as a therapist to provide my clients with the utmost support during their most trying times.
(323) 986-3063 View (323) 986-3063
Photo of Mary Carter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Hi there-I’m Mary Carter, LMFT. I have over 23 years of experience helping people with things like depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, and more. My approach is centered in the evidence-based theory of Carl Rogers providing unconditional positive regard to each individual. I am a certified in cognitive behavioral therapy and anger management, and am a parenting and late life depression facilitator. I provide my clients with a safe and non-judgmental space to be transparent about their struggles.
Hi there-I’m Mary Carter, LMFT. I have over 23 years of experience helping people with things like depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, and more. My approach is centered in the evidence-based theory of Carl Rogers providing unconditional positive regard to each individual. I am a certified in cognitive behavioral therapy and anger management, and am a parenting and late life depression facilitator. I provide my clients with a safe and non-judgmental space to be transparent about their struggles.
(562) 524-1223 View (562) 524-1223
Photo of Sybil Hubbard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sybil Hubbard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who received my Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles in 2006. I work with, adolescents, adults and couples/families. I have worked in various settings, including mental health outpatient clinics, inpatient mental health, state hospitals, detention facilities and prisons.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who received my Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles in 2006. I work with, adolescents, adults and couples/families. I have worked in various settings, including mental health outpatient clinics, inpatient mental health, state hospitals, detention facilities and prisons.
(909) 245-2860 View (909) 245-2860
Photo of Michelle Taylor, MS, LPCC
Michelle Taylor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90712
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
(562) 317-7556 View (562) 317-7556
Photo of Colleen Mielke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Mielke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Colleen Mielke, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy depends on your situation and needs. In general, I would begin with attentive listening or empathy immersion before beginning our approach to your therapeutic needs. Usually, this approach begins with a psychodynamic approach and leads to a CBT approach to help you create the desired change you are looking for. Psychosocial, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, substance abuse, dual-diagnosis, and psychotic disorders. CBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Existential Processing.
Colleen Mielke, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy depends on your situation and needs. In general, I would begin with attentive listening or empathy immersion before beginning our approach to your therapeutic needs. Usually, this approach begins with a psychodynamic approach and leads to a CBT approach to help you create the desired change you are looking for. Psychosocial, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, substance abuse, dual-diagnosis, and psychotic disorders. CBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Existential Processing.
(562) 270-6948 View (562) 270-6948
Photo of Ami-Ray Camarena, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ami-Ray Camarena
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
Authenticity, language, and empathy are the three tenants in my therapeutic work. Our lived experiences shape the way we interact with others and, as a result, old patterns may resurface. By creating dialogue in the room, my clients and I are able to foster a space for healing work to begin. As a growth-oriented clinician, I value the growth that comes from the therapeutic process and want to empower my clients to be the change they wish to experience in their lives.
Authenticity, language, and empathy are the three tenants in my therapeutic work. Our lived experiences shape the way we interact with others and, as a result, old patterns may resurface. By creating dialogue in the room, my clients and I are able to foster a space for healing work to begin. As a growth-oriented clinician, I value the growth that comes from the therapeutic process and want to empower my clients to be the change they wish to experience in their lives.
(310) 361-4911 View (310) 361-4911
Photo of Chase Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chase Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
My name is Chase Summers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Central California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, stress, substance use, and co-occurring disorders. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Client-Centered, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Informed therapeutic approaches.
My name is Chase Summers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Central California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, stress, substance use, and co-occurring disorders. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Client-Centered, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Informed therapeutic approaches.
(619) 430-2319 View (619) 430-2319
Photo of Carissa Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carissa Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Hello, my name is Carissa Smith (LMFT130892). The therapeutic journey is the most important aspect of therapy, and I am always honored to assist clients with that journey in any way I can. People are complex, diverse, and interesting, and based on my experience, are just trying to do the best they can. I am comfortable with adult individuals (18+) across the lifespan. A true passion of mine is working with couples though.
Hello, my name is Carissa Smith (LMFT130892). The therapeutic journey is the most important aspect of therapy, and I am always honored to assist clients with that journey in any way I can. People are complex, diverse, and interesting, and based on my experience, are just trying to do the best they can. I am comfortable with adult individuals (18+) across the lifespan. A true passion of mine is working with couples though.
(442) 256-9280 View (442) 256-9280
Photo of Katrina Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Hello, my name is Katrina Gonzalez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I meet my clients where they are at and work to build on your strengths to help you live a fulfilling life. I am a structural therapist that builds on relationships, boundaries conflict resolution skills mindfulness, and self-care. I also provide solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed treatment, and psychodynamic therapy. I prefer to work with individuals between the ages of 18-60. I have the most experience working with trauma survivors and those with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Hello, my name is Katrina Gonzalez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I meet my clients where they are at and work to build on your strengths to help you live a fulfilling life. I am a structural therapist that builds on relationships, boundaries conflict resolution skills mindfulness, and self-care. I also provide solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed treatment, and psychodynamic therapy. I prefer to work with individuals between the ages of 18-60. I have the most experience working with trauma survivors and those with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
(530) 803-4321 View (530) 803-4321
Photo of Dr. J. Breland, PhD, MDiv, Pr, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. J. Breland
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MDiv, Pr
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
I'm a licensed Pastoral Counselor and doctoral candidate (www.drjbreland.com). For over the last 18 years, I have been specializing in the treatment of individuals and couples experiencing a range of concerns, including marital discord, grief, depression, anxiety, and phase-of-life challenges. I use a personalized approach that integrates CBT as a certified clinician from the Beck Institute and the Gottman Method as a level 3 certified clinician, attachment-based, and faith-based counseling. We're a non-profit organization... So if you cant afford my services don't worry! (Matthew 10:8)
I'm a licensed Pastoral Counselor and doctoral candidate (www.drjbreland.com). For over the last 18 years, I have been specializing in the treatment of individuals and couples experiencing a range of concerns, including marital discord, grief, depression, anxiety, and phase-of-life challenges. I use a personalized approach that integrates CBT as a certified clinician from the Beck Institute and the Gottman Method as a level 3 certified clinician, attachment-based, and faith-based counseling. We're a non-profit organization... So if you cant afford my services don't worry! (Matthew 10:8)
(562) 307-8746 View (562) 307-8746
Photo of Sothy Rith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sothy Rith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Hello and welcome. I have been a dedicated psychotherapist for the past 14 years. I am originally from the Central Valley of California and have worked with severely mentally ill and dual-diagnosed clients in mental health agencies. Through my experience, I gained various therapeutic insights and applied different therapeutic approaches (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Play Therapy, and Rogerian Therapy). I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families.
Hello and welcome. I have been a dedicated psychotherapist for the past 14 years. I am originally from the Central Valley of California and have worked with severely mentally ill and dual-diagnosed clients in mental health agencies. Through my experience, I gained various therapeutic insights and applied different therapeutic approaches (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Play Therapy, and Rogerian Therapy). I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families.
(760) 358-0867 View (760) 358-0867
Photo of Michele Ryan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
My name is Michele Ryan LMFT 118453. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and goal oriented. Let me help you to make meaning in your life and recover from what can feel like a dark and daunting existence. Assisting those with mental health challenges with integrity is something I am deeply passionate about. I love working with individuals, families, couples, and children who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life.
My name is Michele Ryan LMFT 118453. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and goal oriented. Let me help you to make meaning in your life and recover from what can feel like a dark and daunting existence. Assisting those with mental health challenges with integrity is something I am deeply passionate about. I love working with individuals, families, couples, and children who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life.
(925) 744-6357 View (925) 744-6357
Photo of Stacie Ashley-Williams, LCSW, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Ashley-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Are you struggling with anxiety/depression, repetitive thoughts/behaviors, social and/or communication challenges that impact functioning "in everyday life"? Do you have or suspect you may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, you have come to the right place. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social, communication challenges and who have or may have ASD. I assist clients with managing difficult emotions, self-care, building healthy coping, communication, and socialization skills to improve overall functioning.
Are you struggling with anxiety/depression, repetitive thoughts/behaviors, social and/or communication challenges that impact functioning "in everyday life"? Do you have or suspect you may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, you have come to the right place. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social, communication challenges and who have or may have ASD. I assist clients with managing difficult emotions, self-care, building healthy coping, communication, and socialization skills to improve overall functioning.
(424) 245-0913 View (424) 245-0913
Marion Shanker
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
In this often complicated, sometimes confusing world, it can be difficult to get through the rough spots to a more fulfilling life. That's why my gentle and supportive approach to therapy has helped so many individuals.
In this often complicated, sometimes confusing world, it can be difficult to get through the rough spots to a more fulfilling life. That's why my gentle and supportive approach to therapy has helped so many individuals.
(562) 449-3866 View (562) 449-3866
Photo of S. Jolene Hui, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S. Jolene Hui
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Life is full of ups and downs - the first step in getting help is reaching out and I like to work with those who are open and willing to make the necessary changes for optimal happiness. I have experience with many different kinds of people struggling with their mental health issues - in particular those with addiction issues, mood disorders (including perinatal), psychotic disorders, and more. I love to work with those who are committed to bettering their mental health and improving their lives.
Life is full of ups and downs - the first step in getting help is reaching out and I like to work with those who are open and willing to make the necessary changes for optimal happiness. I have experience with many different kinds of people struggling with their mental health issues - in particular those with addiction issues, mood disorders (including perinatal), psychotic disorders, and more. I love to work with those who are committed to bettering their mental health and improving their lives.
(562) 210-0129 View (562) 210-0129
Charles E Bastedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
I work with Codependency and ACA issues and their application to the client's personal relationships and mental state of mind. My goal is to improve your overall relationships at work and in your personal life. I work from a Christian frame of reference (Biola Univ./Thru the Bible Radio) emphasizing the need for God in your life as the source of strength, comfort and in understanding behavior and symptoms. I utilize 12 Step Work and embrace this method of recovery. Establishing your goals and outcomes is essential to making your time and money count for significant changes in life.
I work with Codependency and ACA issues and their application to the client's personal relationships and mental state of mind. My goal is to improve your overall relationships at work and in your personal life. I work from a Christian frame of reference (Biola Univ./Thru the Bible Radio) emphasizing the need for God in your life as the source of strength, comfort and in understanding behavior and symptoms. I utilize 12 Step Work and embrace this method of recovery. Establishing your goals and outcomes is essential to making your time and money count for significant changes in life.
(562) 354-8720 View (562) 354-8720

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90712

60+

Average cost per session

$167

Therapists in 90712 who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
87% Anxiety
82% Relationship Issues
77% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
65% Stress
63% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Optum

How Therapists in 90712 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
23% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90712?

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.