Therapists in Skokie, IL

Photo of Reagan Sword, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Reagan Sword
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
I'm a pre-licensed counselor and hold a Master of Arts in Counseling: Art Therapy. My experience includes supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I have also worked considerably with older adults who are managing a cancer diagnosis or medical condition. I am particularly excited about expanding my work with adolescents, as I am interested in helping young people navigate their unique challenges and developmental stages.
I'm a pre-licensed counselor and hold a Master of Arts in Counseling: Art Therapy. My experience includes supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I have also worked considerably with older adults who are managing a cancer diagnosis or medical condition. I am particularly excited about expanding my work with adolescents, as I am interested in helping young people navigate their unique challenges and developmental stages.
(224) 505-1597 View (224) 505-1597
Photo of Cynthia Doucette, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Doucette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
I believe that each person I work with knows themselves best, and can ultimately identify their own feelings, problems, and methods for managing them. I also know that everyone needs help from time to time in understanding their obstacles, the origins of them, and the path forward. I am honored to help my patients through their unique challenges. I work with adults, young adults, adolescents, couples and families and have been in the field since 1999.
I believe that each person I work with knows themselves best, and can ultimately identify their own feelings, problems, and methods for managing them. I also know that everyone needs help from time to time in understanding their obstacles, the origins of them, and the path forward. I am honored to help my patients through their unique challenges. I work with adults, young adults, adolescents, couples and families and have been in the field since 1999.
(847) 416-2891 x2 View (847) 416-2891 x2
Photo of Farah Hussain Baig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Farah Hussain Baig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I believe that therapy can be a rewarding experience for everyone. As a practitioner, I work closely with my clients, using a strengths-based approach, to help create change and achieve their personal and professional goals. By engaging in the therapeutic process, my clients are able to identify problem areas in their lives and relationships, increase their ability to communicate effectively, find new ways of relating to themselves and others, as well as develop positive strategies for successful conflict resolution.
I believe that therapy can be a rewarding experience for everyone. As a practitioner, I work closely with my clients, using a strengths-based approach, to help create change and achieve their personal and professional goals. By engaging in the therapeutic process, my clients are able to identify problem areas in their lives and relationships, increase their ability to communicate effectively, find new ways of relating to themselves and others, as well as develop positive strategies for successful conflict resolution.
(312) 620-1420 View (312) 620-1420
Photo of Paul Cantz, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Paul Cantz
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Psychotherapy is a process, not an event, and healing and transformation is possible. Through creating a non-judgmental and compassionate therapeutic environment, I help foster insights into your distress, helping translate these discoveries into an improved quality of life. By relieving symptoms and addressing the source of problems, the process of therapy promotes well-being, meaning, and purpose. Psychotherapy is an effective method for promoting wellness and facilitating enduring positive change. Everyone has the innate desire and ability to lead authentic, meaningful, and purposeful lives. Psychotherapy is a proven path to uncover and access that potential.
Psychotherapy is a process, not an event, and healing and transformation is possible. Through creating a non-judgmental and compassionate therapeutic environment, I help foster insights into your distress, helping translate these discoveries into an improved quality of life. By relieving symptoms and addressing the source of problems, the process of therapy promotes well-being, meaning, and purpose. Psychotherapy is an effective method for promoting wellness and facilitating enduring positive change. Everyone has the innate desire and ability to lead authentic, meaningful, and purposeful lives. Psychotherapy is a proven path to uncover and access that potential.
(312) 548-0044 View (312) 548-0044
Photo of Sydnie Dobkin, LCPC
Sydnie Dobkin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
As a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification Certified Clinician, I am at my core a DBT therapist. However, I was initially trained in psychodynamic theory and later become certified in Reiki and Yoga-Informed Psychotherapy; thus, you can expect behaviorism with a bit of a twist. I like to meet a client where they are at and develop a genuine therapeutic connection!
As a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification Certified Clinician, I am at my core a DBT therapist. However, I was initially trained in psychodynamic theory and later become certified in Reiki and Yoga-Informed Psychotherapy; thus, you can expect behaviorism with a bit of a twist. I like to meet a client where they are at and develop a genuine therapeutic connection!
(224) 576-0365 View (224) 576-0365
Photo of Rachel Swanson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Chances are, you have happened upon this website because you are looking for something to be different: a feeling, a relationship, a thought, a mood... Together, we will determine what needs to change by looking outside ourselves (exploring roles, rules, connection, boundaries, communication, and support) and by looking within ouselves (exploring thoughts, feelings, coping skills, internal dialogue, and how we've made meaning out of different experiences). Through the process of learning, accepting and changing, something inherently will be different...and you will feel different.
Chances are, you have happened upon this website because you are looking for something to be different: a feeling, a relationship, a thought, a mood... Together, we will determine what needs to change by looking outside ourselves (exploring roles, rules, connection, boundaries, communication, and support) and by looking within ouselves (exploring thoughts, feelings, coping skills, internal dialogue, and how we've made meaning out of different experiences). Through the process of learning, accepting and changing, something inherently will be different...and you will feel different.
(224) 293-4488 View (224) 293-4488
Photo of Rose Allen, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rose Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
At its core, therapy is the process of making sense of our experiences and our relationships. I strive to facilitate that process with warmth, humor, and curiosity. I embrace an interpersonal approach that values both individual growth and relational healing in order to deepen your understanding of yourself and your connection to others. I work collaboratively with clients, using their inherent strengths to lift barriers that have kept them from solving problems in their lives. A deeper understanding of ourselves in our context allows us to navigate current circumstances with greater confidence, clarity, and compassion.
At its core, therapy is the process of making sense of our experiences and our relationships. I strive to facilitate that process with warmth, humor, and curiosity. I embrace an interpersonal approach that values both individual growth and relational healing in order to deepen your understanding of yourself and your connection to others. I work collaboratively with clients, using their inherent strengths to lift barriers that have kept them from solving problems in their lives. A deeper understanding of ourselves in our context allows us to navigate current circumstances with greater confidence, clarity, and compassion.
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Photo of Nicole Wahlert - Nicole Wahlert, PLLC, MS, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Nicole Wahlert, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
During my past 25 years as a therapist I've worked with several clients with a variety of presenting problems, including anxiety and depression, chemical dependency, emotional abuse, sex addiction, codependency, eating disorders, and childhood trauma. I offer a supportive, confidential and safe place for you, your partner, spouse and/or family to work through obstacles, struggles, and current/past traumas to find success. It is my role to respect your values and the goal you set out to reach in therapy.
During my past 25 years as a therapist I've worked with several clients with a variety of presenting problems, including anxiety and depression, chemical dependency, emotional abuse, sex addiction, codependency, eating disorders, and childhood trauma. I offer a supportive, confidential and safe place for you, your partner, spouse and/or family to work through obstacles, struggles, and current/past traumas to find success. It is my role to respect your values and the goal you set out to reach in therapy.
(847) 558-1940 View (847) 558-1940
Photo of Zaynah Farooq, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zaynah Farooq
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60076  (Online Only)
As a second-generation woman of color, I have extensive experience working with clients from various diverse backgrounds. Some of my specialties include PTSD, complex/intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, family/relationship conflicts, postpartum issues, self-esteem, stress, etc. Coming from a community health background, I invest in the needs of clients that come from traditionally underserved communities. I also have considerable experience and strengths in spiritually-integrated holistic psychotherapy, incorporating values one holds into their therapeutic needs and goals.
As a second-generation woman of color, I have extensive experience working with clients from various diverse backgrounds. Some of my specialties include PTSD, complex/intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, family/relationship conflicts, postpartum issues, self-esteem, stress, etc. Coming from a community health background, I invest in the needs of clients that come from traditionally underserved communities. I also have considerable experience and strengths in spiritually-integrated holistic psychotherapy, incorporating values one holds into their therapeutic needs and goals.
(312) 624-6220 View (312) 624-6220
Photo of James Driscoll, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Driscoll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families. With adults and adolescents I treat issues like depression, anxiety, personality disorder, and lifespan changes. With children I treat issues related to ADHD, dysregulated mood, and autism spectrum. For families I provide psychoeducation on the conflicts and communication issues beneath presenting concerns. I also coordinate group therapy for Orchard Wellness LLC; listings for groups currently forming can be found on my profile.
I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families. With adults and adolescents I treat issues like depression, anxiety, personality disorder, and lifespan changes. With children I treat issues related to ADHD, dysregulated mood, and autism spectrum. For families I provide psychoeducation on the conflicts and communication issues beneath presenting concerns. I also coordinate group therapy for Orchard Wellness LLC; listings for groups currently forming can be found on my profile.
(224) 864-9650 View (224) 864-9650
Photo of Lynn Renee Zakeri, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Renee Zakeri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
I often say it is my job to help make life better. Whether you are worrying too much (anxiety), feeling sad (depression), or dealing with trauma, I will do just that: Help make life better. I have experience with children, adolescents, adults and families and have worked in both the school system and in full-time private practice. My style is practical, and focuses a lot on coping mechanisms and strategies. I have had much success working on a variety of issues as noted below. I enjoy assisting in the progress and achievement of attaining goals. My COVID mission has been "always an opening" and now have associates too!
I often say it is my job to help make life better. Whether you are worrying too much (anxiety), feeling sad (depression), or dealing with trauma, I will do just that: Help make life better. I have experience with children, adolescents, adults and families and have worked in both the school system and in full-time private practice. My style is practical, and focuses a lot on coping mechanisms and strategies. I have had much success working on a variety of issues as noted below. I enjoy assisting in the progress and achievement of attaining goals. My COVID mission has been "always an opening" and now have associates too!
(847) 250-7989 View (847) 250-7989
Photo of Ivan Velasco, MSMFT, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Ivan Velasco
Counselor, MSMFT, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
I love helping others to make sense of their issues through an integrative approach. My specialties are, (1) Couples, Families and Individuals; (2) Multicultural Issues; (3) Work with actors, models, and sexual workers; (4) Negotiations.
I love helping others to make sense of their issues through an integrative approach. My specialties are, (1) Couples, Families and Individuals; (2) Multicultural Issues; (3) Work with actors, models, and sexual workers; (4) Negotiations.
(847) 558-6929 View (847) 558-6929
Photo of Rachael S. Sytsma-Ramos, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachael S. Sytsma-Ramos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
As a therapist, I work well with individuals and families who are curious about themselves, our work together, and the possibilities for a healthier future. Clients often find that I am a warm, patient, curious, humorous, kind, and supportive person on their journey toward self-improvement. I am passionate about my work with clients who are LGBTQ* and I love working with gender expansive youth and adults.
As a therapist, I work well with individuals and families who are curious about themselves, our work together, and the possibilities for a healthier future. Clients often find that I am a warm, patient, curious, humorous, kind, and supportive person on their journey toward self-improvement. I am passionate about my work with clients who are LGBTQ* and I love working with gender expansive youth and adults.
(224) 808-4664 View (224) 808-4664
Photo of Hannah Jones-Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Jones-Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076  (Online Only)
I believe in the profound power of resiliency and that we all have the capacity to heal, to recover, and to thrive after we endure painful experiences, loss, and trauma. I am committed to the co-creation of a safe and trusting relationship that can support healing connection and an understanding of how to re-engage in relationships with new awareness. Whether you have experienced some recent stressors or are working to heal from bigger losses and trauma, I can support you in navigating what comes next.
I believe in the profound power of resiliency and that we all have the capacity to heal, to recover, and to thrive after we endure painful experiences, loss, and trauma. I am committed to the co-creation of a safe and trusting relationship that can support healing connection and an understanding of how to re-engage in relationships with new awareness. Whether you have experienced some recent stressors or are working to heal from bigger losses and trauma, I can support you in navigating what comes next.
(224) 203-5238 View (224) 203-5238
Photo of Gisele Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gisele Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
I believe in the importance of developing a therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively to help individuals understand the patterns in their behavior and relationships, find empathy and acceptance of themselves, and develop ways to move toward more fulfillment in their lives. I have over 25 years of clinical experience with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, dysfunctional family dynamics, self esteem issues, attachment disorders, difficulty navigating relationships, and grief. I also have a professional working proficiency of and provide therapy in Spanish.
I believe in the importance of developing a therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively to help individuals understand the patterns in their behavior and relationships, find empathy and acceptance of themselves, and develop ways to move toward more fulfillment in their lives. I have over 25 years of clinical experience with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, dysfunctional family dynamics, self esteem issues, attachment disorders, difficulty navigating relationships, and grief. I also have a professional working proficiency of and provide therapy in Spanish.
(224) 271-9614 View (224) 271-9614
Photo of Jill Schoeneman-Parker, PsyD, Psychologist
Jill Schoeneman-Parker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
When I begin to work with a new client, my goal is to understand each client and see his or her strengths, abilities, and positive qualities. Very often new clients, especially children or teens, are so used to thinking or hearing about their problems that they themselves seem to forget their own positive traits and attributes. I really enjoy helping foster resiliency among my clients, helping them recognize their capacities to cope, heal, and move beyond feeling stuck or powerless. My approach is very effective with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self esteem, and feeling overwhelmed in life.
When I begin to work with a new client, my goal is to understand each client and see his or her strengths, abilities, and positive qualities. Very often new clients, especially children or teens, are so used to thinking or hearing about their problems that they themselves seem to forget their own positive traits and attributes. I really enjoy helping foster resiliency among my clients, helping them recognize their capacities to cope, heal, and move beyond feeling stuck or powerless. My approach is very effective with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self esteem, and feeling overwhelmed in life.
(224) 374-1494 View (224) 374-1494
Photo of Veronica McMillion, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica McMillion
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
Hello! I am Veronica, a therapist who is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for people seeking mental health care. My humanistic approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a client-centered perspective. I tailor my interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are some of the evidence-based treatments I use to to help people overcome the challenges of past traumas, anxiety, depression, and OCD.
Hello! I am Veronica, a therapist who is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for people seeking mental health care. My humanistic approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a client-centered perspective. I tailor my interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are some of the evidence-based treatments I use to to help people overcome the challenges of past traumas, anxiety, depression, and OCD.
(224) 529-3842 View (224) 529-3842
Photo of Paul Cantz - Orchard Wellness, PLLC, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Orchard Wellness, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
Clinicians at Orchard Wellness are highly skilled mental health providers who deeply value your health and wellbeing and respect the challenges that you and/or your children or family is experiencing. We take great pride in providing our community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. Our mission is to improve people's lives, one at a time. We base our success on helping people live and feel better.
Clinicians at Orchard Wellness are highly skilled mental health providers who deeply value your health and wellbeing and respect the challenges that you and/or your children or family is experiencing. We take great pride in providing our community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. Our mission is to improve people's lives, one at a time. We base our success on helping people live and feel better.
(224) 864-9512 View (224) 864-9512
Photo of Ira Finkel, LCSW, CCATP, C-SSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ira Finkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP, C-SSWS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
Is your anxiety preventing you (or your child) from being who you (or they) want to be? Wish you or your child could just get over it? If it was only that simple. Sometimes we just need someone who can give us the tools to not be crippled with anxiety. Anxiety is a necessary part of life, but shouldn't interfere. You're not looking for someone to just talk to on an ongoing basis; that's what your friends and family are for (and you don't need to pay them!) I'm going to help you get in and out of my office feeling "cured" as quickly as we can so that you can save money and be who you want to be.
Is your anxiety preventing you (or your child) from being who you (or they) want to be? Wish you or your child could just get over it? If it was only that simple. Sometimes we just need someone who can give us the tools to not be crippled with anxiety. Anxiety is a necessary part of life, but shouldn't interfere. You're not looking for someone to just talk to on an ongoing basis; that's what your friends and family are for (and you don't need to pay them!) I'm going to help you get in and out of my office feeling "cured" as quickly as we can so that you can save money and be who you want to be.
(773) 832-5741 View (773) 832-5741
Photo of David Hauser, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
David Hauser
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
I believe that healing relationships, with others and with one's self, is the core ingredient for change in therapy. I feel that the optimal therapeutic approach with any person must be tailored to the needs of the particular individual and/or client system. Therapy should be approachable and create an environment of acceptance and self-love. In understanding human behavior, it is not so much about "good" or "bad" behavior, but trying to understand why we do what we do and to make sure our behaviors are constructive for ourselves and the relationships important to us.
I believe that healing relationships, with others and with one's self, is the core ingredient for change in therapy. I feel that the optimal therapeutic approach with any person must be tailored to the needs of the particular individual and/or client system. Therapy should be approachable and create an environment of acceptance and self-love. In understanding human behavior, it is not so much about "good" or "bad" behavior, but trying to understand why we do what we do and to make sure our behaviors are constructive for ourselves and the relationships important to us.
(847) 565-1540 View (847) 565-1540
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Skokie, IL

300+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Skokie, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Coping Skills
64% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
39% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Skokie, IL see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Skokie?

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.