Photo of Katherine Deal (Reis), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Deal (Reis)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Whether you're struggling with consequences stemming from past trauma, chronic mental illness, grief/loss, hopelessness, anger, resentment or profound life changes; healing is possible. Therapy is the process of building insight and awareness into behaviors and thoughts that ultimately perpetuate the hurt and pain. My goal is to assist in you finding the best way to break this pattern, change old and ineffective ways of coping and building a better understanding of why we do what we do. We often are trying to make right or whole, something that was so broken, destroyed or distorted from our past.
Whether you're struggling with consequences stemming from past trauma, chronic mental illness, grief/loss, hopelessness, anger, resentment or profound life changes; healing is possible. Therapy is the process of building insight and awareness into behaviors and thoughts that ultimately perpetuate the hurt and pain. My goal is to assist in you finding the best way to break this pattern, change old and ineffective ways of coping and building a better understanding of why we do what we do. We often are trying to make right or whole, something that was so broken, destroyed or distorted from our past.
(951) 363-2832 View (951) 363-2832
Photo of Larry Goodman, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larry Goodman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Quinta, CA 92253  (Online Only)
Hello. I am Larry Goodman. I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist and have worked with children, teens, women, men, and couples for many years. I provide an understanding and safe place to talk about and resolve issues that may have troubled you for a long time or have recently come up, issues that prevent you from enjoying your life, your family, or your work situation. Whether it is frustration or anger with a partner, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, sadness, or difficult children/teens, I can help.
Hello. I am Larry Goodman. I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist and have worked with children, teens, women, men, and couples for many years. I provide an understanding and safe place to talk about and resolve issues that may have troubled you for a long time or have recently come up, issues that prevent you from enjoying your life, your family, or your work situation. Whether it is frustration or anger with a partner, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, sadness, or difficult children/teens, I can help.
(442) 245-3472 View (442) 245-3472
Photo of Terra Michelle Schmid, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terra Michelle Schmid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Quinta, CA 92253
Waitlist for new clients
If you are ready to start healing past hurts, start taking care of You, and/or improve your relationships...I am here to help. We all need a place to shed the layers of thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be keeping us from our true self, or hindering our quality of life. Are you a parent needing guidance and support, or is your child or teen having a difficult time and you don't know where to turn? Are you looking to finally feel heard and understood...If you are struggling in any one of these areas, or are looking to feel more connected to yourself I would love to work with you. Your past does not predict your future.
If you are ready to start healing past hurts, start taking care of You, and/or improve your relationships...I am here to help. We all need a place to shed the layers of thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be keeping us from our true self, or hindering our quality of life. Are you a parent needing guidance and support, or is your child or teen having a difficult time and you don't know where to turn? Are you looking to finally feel heard and understood...If you are struggling in any one of these areas, or are looking to feel more connected to yourself I would love to work with you. Your past does not predict your future.
(442) 245-3487 View (442) 245-3487
Photo of Lauren Knipstein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Knipstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I hope to help you feel empowered, encouraged, supported, and help you through this journey step by step. As a mental health professional, I have gained incredible experience working with adults, children, teens, couples, and families through treatment facilities, schools, universities, and community organizations. My experience in these different organizations and facilities has allowed me to gain skills working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, relational difficulties, and coping difficulties.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I hope to help you feel empowered, encouraged, supported, and help you through this journey step by step. As a mental health professional, I have gained incredible experience working with adults, children, teens, couples, and families through treatment facilities, schools, universities, and community organizations. My experience in these different organizations and facilities has allowed me to gain skills working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, relational difficulties, and coping difficulties.
(760) 249-7803 View (760) 249-7803
Photo of Mabel R. Ribas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mabel R. Ribas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253  (Online Only)
It is my honor to work with clients that are experiencing difficult life experiences. I provide counseling to children, adults and families. My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship problems. I also specialize working with children and families that are affected by learning disorders (IEPS), behavior challenges, ADHD, Autism, Emotional Disturbance and other school related difficulties. My approach is to prioritize my clients' needs and assist them in identifying their strengths, power, purpose and resilience in order to overcome their stressors.
It is my honor to work with clients that are experiencing difficult life experiences. I provide counseling to children, adults and families. My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship problems. I also specialize working with children and families that are affected by learning disorders (IEPS), behavior challenges, ADHD, Autism, Emotional Disturbance and other school related difficulties. My approach is to prioritize my clients' needs and assist them in identifying their strengths, power, purpose and resilience in order to overcome their stressors.
(760) 374-8292 View (760) 374-8292
Photo of Nicole G. Duarte, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole G. Duarte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Waitlist for new clients
I'd first like to acknowledge your courage in reaching out, and thank you for taking a chance to live a more fulfilled life. Hello, I am Nicole G. Duarte, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 6 years of experience in working with at-risk teens, adults, and families in a variety of situations from foster care, human trafficking, and homelessness. I believe in the power of relationships and how a therapeutic relationship can help you overcome many obstacles. I will meet you where you are at emotionally.
I'd first like to acknowledge your courage in reaching out, and thank you for taking a chance to live a more fulfilled life. Hello, I am Nicole G. Duarte, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 6 years of experience in working with at-risk teens, adults, and families in a variety of situations from foster care, human trafficking, and homelessness. I believe in the power of relationships and how a therapeutic relationship can help you overcome many obstacles. I will meet you where you are at emotionally.
(424) 375-6300 View (424) 375-6300
Photo of Kathleen Felber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Felber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Hi! My name is Kathleen Felber, and I am a LMFT in CA. I help work through symptoms of depression, anxiety, and relational or life transition issues. You can expect a genuine, open-minded, and inclusive approach from me. I work collaboratively with my clients to meet them where they are and set goals to help them be the best version of themselves. I prefer to work with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and family issues. I also enjoy working with adults with anxiety and depression as well as life transitions or relational issues.
Hi! My name is Kathleen Felber, and I am a LMFT in CA. I help work through symptoms of depression, anxiety, and relational or life transition issues. You can expect a genuine, open-minded, and inclusive approach from me. I work collaboratively with my clients to meet them where they are and set goals to help them be the best version of themselves. I prefer to work with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and family issues. I also enjoy working with adults with anxiety and depression as well as life transitions or relational issues.
(760) 452-9505 View (760) 452-9505
Photo of Araceli Martinez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Araceli Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Welcome! I’m Araceli Martinez, bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have had the opportunity to help clients of all ages in working with a wide range on concerns such as trauma, depression, and anxiety by utilizing evidenced based practices of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, seeking safety, as well as traditional therapy interventions.
Welcome! I’m Araceli Martinez, bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have had the opportunity to help clients of all ages in working with a wide range on concerns such as trauma, depression, and anxiety by utilizing evidenced based practices of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, seeking safety, as well as traditional therapy interventions.
(760) 273-3195 View (760) 273-3195
Photo of Maricela Andrea Soto, PsyD, Psychologist
Maricela Andrea Soto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Not accepting new clients
I believe that humans have the capacity to grow and change. I strive to create a compassionate and caring environment for my clients. My goal is to work closely with each clients and his/her needs and help them find their path to good mental health. Life, at times, is simply hard and is important to build the resiliency to get through it and to live a life with purpose and be goal driven.
I believe that humans have the capacity to grow and change. I strive to create a compassionate and caring environment for my clients. My goal is to work closely with each clients and his/her needs and help them find their path to good mental health. Life, at times, is simply hard and is important to build the resiliency to get through it and to live a life with purpose and be goal driven.
(442) 245-3369 View (442) 245-3369
Photo of Petra Schoning, MA, LMFT, BCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Petra Schoning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BCC
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253  (Online Only)
It takes vulnerability and courage to reach out and ask for support. Simply being a human being means that we will, at times, be challenged, overwhelmed, frustrated, confused, anxious and/or scared. This is normal and it is true for everyone. It is part of the human experience. Often we are able to navigate life challenges on our own. However, there are times where reaching out for support and guidance is the best decision we can possibly make. Times where we feel stuck and unable to find our way through life's difficulties. Times where we want to get back to our best selves as soon as possible.
It takes vulnerability and courage to reach out and ask for support. Simply being a human being means that we will, at times, be challenged, overwhelmed, frustrated, confused, anxious and/or scared. This is normal and it is true for everyone. It is part of the human experience. Often we are able to navigate life challenges on our own. However, there are times where reaching out for support and guidance is the best decision we can possibly make. Times where we feel stuck and unable to find our way through life's difficulties. Times where we want to get back to our best selves as soon as possible.
(760) 895-4332 View (760) 895-4332
Photo of Chonnie Sutton Thiessen, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chonnie Sutton Thiessen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
I am committed to helping families and individuals through professional, compassionate and evidence based mental health services that are rooted in community and faith. I consider myself a Christian counselor who values diversity and cultural sensitivity in particularly regarding race, religion, and sexual orientation. I have helped hundreds of individuals overcome psychological, emotional, and physical struggles.
I am committed to helping families and individuals through professional, compassionate and evidence based mental health services that are rooted in community and faith. I consider myself a Christian counselor who values diversity and cultural sensitivity in particularly regarding race, religion, and sexual orientation. I have helped hundreds of individuals overcome psychological, emotional, and physical struggles.
(760) 278-6492 View (760) 278-6492
Photo of Kaitlyn McNulty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn McNulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a journey to discover ways to handle life challenges, no matter how big or small. There is no one size fits all approach since we are all so unique. My approach uses multiple different therapy modalities to see what will be the best fit for you. On our journey together, I am hopeful that we can uncover the skills you already are using and add to them. We all thrive when we are listened to and feel understood so I hope to create a space where you feel welcomed and safe. I look forward to getting to know you!
I see therapy as a journey to discover ways to handle life challenges, no matter how big or small. There is no one size fits all approach since we are all so unique. My approach uses multiple different therapy modalities to see what will be the best fit for you. On our journey together, I am hopeful that we can uncover the skills you already are using and add to them. We all thrive when we are listened to and feel understood so I hope to create a space where you feel welcomed and safe. I look forward to getting to know you!
(760) 903-5701 View (760) 903-5701
Photo of Joshua Bienenfeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Bienenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Quinta, CA 92253  (Online Only)
My name is Joshua Bienenfeld, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, stress, and caregiver issues, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures.
My name is Joshua Bienenfeld, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, stress, and caregiver issues, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures.
(760) 280-9680 View (760) 280-9680
Photo of Elizabeth J. Vanegas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth J. Vanegas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
The journey of healing is a process where the client deserves to feel cared for in a safe environment. I have worked with a range of ages from children, teens to older adults. My experience has been with clients working through chronic symptoms of depression, self-harm, and psychiatric hospitalizations. I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking safety, motivational interviewing, and provide other therapy modalities. I feel privileged to work with my clients in helping them heal from their trauma and other challenges they might be experiencing.
The journey of healing is a process where the client deserves to feel cared for in a safe environment. I have worked with a range of ages from children, teens to older adults. My experience has been with clients working through chronic symptoms of depression, self-harm, and psychiatric hospitalizations. I have been trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking safety, motivational interviewing, and provide other therapy modalities. I feel privileged to work with my clients in helping them heal from their trauma and other challenges they might be experiencing.
(760) 983-7964 View (760) 983-7964
Photo of Margarita Garcia, CP, Psychologist
Margarita Garcia
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Margarita Garcia, Psy.D. a licensed psychologist. I have experience working with children and adults. I aim to provide a client-centered, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment. I tailor therapy to the unique needs of each client, based on the problem, goals, and the individual's expectations and motivations. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and individualized, integrating components from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused therapy.
Margarita Garcia, Psy.D. a licensed psychologist. I have experience working with children and adults. I aim to provide a client-centered, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment. I tailor therapy to the unique needs of each client, based on the problem, goals, and the individual's expectations and motivations. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and individualized, integrating components from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused therapy.
(760) 492-7538 View (760) 492-7538
Photo of Linda Brown, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Have you ever felt like you just cannot get your feelings or thoughts across to someone or you are just not getting heard? Do you feel lonely or depressed or just feel stuck in your relationship?
Have you ever felt like you just cannot get your feelings or thoughts across to someone or you are just not getting heard? Do you feel lonely or depressed or just feel stuck in your relationship?
(760) 536-5681 View (760) 536-5681
Photo of Merett Sheridan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merett Sheridan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Hi there, I'm Merrett, a licensed marriage and family therapist. Areas I can help you with include self-esteem, co-dependency, setting boundaries, work/life balance, caregiver burnout, dysfunctional family dynamics, existential concerns, and life transitions. I use a variety of modalities including positive psychology, solution-focused, and existential, but always work in a client-centered manner, focusing on the issues that matter most to you to help guide you to better understand your experience and solutions for moving forward.
Hi there, I'm Merrett, a licensed marriage and family therapist. Areas I can help you with include self-esteem, co-dependency, setting boundaries, work/life balance, caregiver burnout, dysfunctional family dynamics, existential concerns, and life transitions. I use a variety of modalities including positive psychology, solution-focused, and existential, but always work in a client-centered manner, focusing on the issues that matter most to you to help guide you to better understand your experience and solutions for moving forward.
(760) 935-6664 View (760) 935-6664
Photo of Lois Rachel Wilco-Owens - Lois Wilco-Owens, MFT, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lois Wilco-Owens, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253  (Online Only)
I've been in private practice for 40 years, dealing mostly with First Responders, i.e., police and fire. I am quickly able to identify the issue to be dealt with and offer solutions. I use a combination of practicality and interpersonal warmth. My style is very interactive, honest and direct.
I've been in private practice for 40 years, dealing mostly with First Responders, i.e., police and fire. I am quickly able to identify the issue to be dealt with and offer solutions. I use a combination of practicality and interpersonal warmth. My style is very interactive, honest and direct.
(442) 227-8433 View (442) 227-8433
Photo of Angelica Guajardo, MA, FT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angelica Guajardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, FT, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Life can be so challenging at times. So much to do, with so little time. All this running around and at the end of the day there is yet a feeling of dissatisfaction. Do you find yourself worn out, frustrated, and stressed out? Perhaps your relationship needs a tune-up. There is help. I would like to assist you along in your journey to self-discovery, and improving relationships with self and others. Now accepting IEHP insurance. Simply contact IEHP and request for "Behavioral Services with Angelica Guajardo, LMFT."
Life can be so challenging at times. So much to do, with so little time. All this running around and at the end of the day there is yet a feeling of dissatisfaction. Do you find yourself worn out, frustrated, and stressed out? Perhaps your relationship needs a tune-up. There is help. I would like to assist you along in your journey to self-discovery, and improving relationships with self and others. Now accepting IEHP insurance. Simply contact IEHP and request for "Behavioral Services with Angelica Guajardo, LMFT."
(760) 452-8209 View (760) 452-8209
Photo of Norma Leticia Oshita-Dunn - Oshita Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oshita Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Quinta, CA 92253
Not accepting new clients
I am a bilingual (Spanish) licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on solutions and short-term-outcomes, rather than spending years analyzing the problem. While traditional long-term therapy and in-depth exploration of the past may be appropriate in some situations, it's generally not necessary. Whether it's court-ordered classes, separation, divorce, domestic violence, parenting or co-parenting, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, I'll personalize a plan that guides you to the desired outcome.
I am a bilingual (Spanish) licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on solutions and short-term-outcomes, rather than spending years analyzing the problem. While traditional long-term therapy and in-depth exploration of the past may be appropriate in some situations, it's generally not necessary. Whether it's court-ordered classes, separation, divorce, domestic violence, parenting or co-parenting, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, I'll personalize a plan that guides you to the desired outcome.
(760) 264-4567 View (760) 264-4567
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92253

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 92253 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
69% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem
66% Family Conflict
64% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 92253 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92253?

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.