Therapists in Peoria, IL

Photo of Joy Wolf, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Wolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Hello, my name is Joy, and I’m so glad you’re taking that first difficult step and considering therapy. My clients come to me for a lot of reasons, but most of them are feeling stuck. I believe we all have those times when moving forward toward healing is scary, or almost too difficult, or we don’t even know what moving forward means for us. Therapy can truly help. I help people with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, grief and loss, past trauma that won’t let go, and more.
Hello, my name is Joy, and I’m so glad you’re taking that first difficult step and considering therapy. My clients come to me for a lot of reasons, but most of them are feeling stuck. I believe we all have those times when moving forward toward healing is scary, or almost too difficult, or we don’t even know what moving forward means for us. Therapy can truly help. I help people with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, grief and loss, past trauma that won’t let go, and more.
(309) 220-5166 View (309) 220-5166
Photo of Olivia Ruff, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Olivia Ruff
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Howdy! I hope that for whichever reason you're 'here' that we are able to advocate for the resources you need. I personally share the viewpoint of reality counseling. I believe everyone has goals in their life that they wish to pursue. Whether it be financial, academic, emotional, or physical. I make it my endeavor to create an environment that is inviting, client-paced, and goal oriented.
Howdy! I hope that for whichever reason you're 'here' that we are able to advocate for the resources you need. I personally share the viewpoint of reality counseling. I believe everyone has goals in their life that they wish to pursue. Whether it be financial, academic, emotional, or physical. I make it my endeavor to create an environment that is inviting, client-paced, and goal oriented.
(309) 250-1183 View (309) 250-1183
Photo of Magan Hopson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Magan Hopson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Life is hard at times and can leave us feeling hurt, confused or even hopeless, but I do not believe that any situation is hopeless. As a therapist, and as a person, I believe in the healing process that can occur through having an unbiased person who is willing to sit and listen to our needs. My goal is to be that listening ear for you and help you learn how to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, identify how to draw on your strengths to make positive changes and understand that you have the power to overcome any issue.
Life is hard at times and can leave us feeling hurt, confused or even hopeless, but I do not believe that any situation is hopeless. As a therapist, and as a person, I believe in the healing process that can occur through having an unbiased person who is willing to sit and listen to our needs. My goal is to be that listening ear for you and help you learn how to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, identify how to draw on your strengths to make positive changes and understand that you have the power to overcome any issue.
(217) 396-3461 View (217) 396-3461
Photo of Tammy Burtch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy Burtch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
People seek counseling for a variety of reasons: to address difficult thoughts, painful emotions, grief and loss, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, gender identity, sexuality, stress, anger, compromised self-esteem, low motivation, trauma, habits, addictions, and more. Sometimes we seek counsel because we are ready to make changes in our lives and we want support and feedback for the journey. Finding a good counselor can make all the difference. I invite you to take that first step. Come in and let's see what we can do together to help you find peace, understanding, clarity, direction, healing, wholeness, and health.
People seek counseling for a variety of reasons: to address difficult thoughts, painful emotions, grief and loss, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, gender identity, sexuality, stress, anger, compromised self-esteem, low motivation, trauma, habits, addictions, and more. Sometimes we seek counsel because we are ready to make changes in our lives and we want support and feedback for the journey. Finding a good counselor can make all the difference. I invite you to take that first step. Come in and let's see what we can do together to help you find peace, understanding, clarity, direction, healing, wholeness, and health.
(309) 326-5701 View (309) 326-5701
Photo of Venus Evans-Winters, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Venus Evans-Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma professional, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g. cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip hop generation, she helps culturally and linguistically diverse clients cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a major influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma professional, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g. cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip hop generation, she helps culturally and linguistically diverse clients cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a major influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
(309) 362-0501 View (309) 362-0501
Photo of Erica Ray, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Erica Ray
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Hello, I'm Erica! Life is difficult and sometimes we forget that we don't have to do it alone. I look forward to having the chance to understand who you are. I have provided therapy out in the community, in schools, as well as in a typical counseling office. I have experience with clients of all ages who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, coping with grief and loss, the challenges of parenting, social behavior, and trauma. My approach to counseling is person centered. I believe you are the first and best expert on yourself. I focus on truly hearing what you believe about your own needs and concerns.
Hello, I'm Erica! Life is difficult and sometimes we forget that we don't have to do it alone. I look forward to having the chance to understand who you are. I have provided therapy out in the community, in schools, as well as in a typical counseling office. I have experience with clients of all ages who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, coping with grief and loss, the challenges of parenting, social behavior, and trauma. My approach to counseling is person centered. I believe you are the first and best expert on yourself. I focus on truly hearing what you believe about your own needs and concerns.
(309) 777-0897 View (309) 777-0897
Photo of Darin Hoffmire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darin Hoffmire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Darin received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Illinois. He has been assisting individuals, couples and families for more than 20 years and uses a strength-based approach to his counseling. Darin takes great satisfaction in helping his clients increase their self-awareness in order to improve their ability to regulate their thoughts and behaviors . Areas of skill building include but are not limited to: avoiding thinking errors, increasing personal responsibility, increasing emotional intelligence, assertiveness training, integrating faith into decision making, stress management, enhancing parenting skills and improving self-esteem.
Darin received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Illinois. He has been assisting individuals, couples and families for more than 20 years and uses a strength-based approach to his counseling. Darin takes great satisfaction in helping his clients increase their self-awareness in order to improve their ability to regulate their thoughts and behaviors . Areas of skill building include but are not limited to: avoiding thinking errors, increasing personal responsibility, increasing emotional intelligence, assertiveness training, integrating faith into decision making, stress management, enhancing parenting skills and improving self-esteem.
(309) 285-8509 View (309) 285-8509
Photo of Chrissy Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrissy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
Whether you've been to therapy before or not, taking that step can be intimidating but so courageous. I believe in creating a laid-back and welcoming environment where you and I can discuss whatever your reason for coming in comfortably, confidentially, and professionally. I have training and experience working with individuals who struggle with substance use, depression, anxiety, grief, and other diagnoses and life stressors. I work with teens, young adults, and adults to tailor treatment goals based off individual needs.
Whether you've been to therapy before or not, taking that step can be intimidating but so courageous. I believe in creating a laid-back and welcoming environment where you and I can discuss whatever your reason for coming in comfortably, confidentially, and professionally. I have training and experience working with individuals who struggle with substance use, depression, anxiety, grief, and other diagnoses and life stressors. I work with teens, young adults, and adults to tailor treatment goals based off individual needs.
(309) 326-5855 View (309) 326-5855
Photo of Robin K Hayles, MA, LCPC
Robin K Hayles
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Hello, I’m Robin Hayles. I love serving people and engaging with them through the growth and discovery process. I also enjoy encouraging others to know and love themselves, follow their hearts, and overcome roadblocks. I am an accomplished professional with 15+ years of experience serving a diverse range of clients through several local community agencies and clinical mental health providers. I am experienced with a wide variety of clinical diagnoses and have worked with all ages across the lifespan. I utilize a non-judgmental approach while being respectful of personal values and beliefs.
Hello, I’m Robin Hayles. I love serving people and engaging with them through the growth and discovery process. I also enjoy encouraging others to know and love themselves, follow their hearts, and overcome roadblocks. I am an accomplished professional with 15+ years of experience serving a diverse range of clients through several local community agencies and clinical mental health providers. I am experienced with a wide variety of clinical diagnoses and have worked with all ages across the lifespan. I utilize a non-judgmental approach while being respectful of personal values and beliefs.
(309) 300-3606 View (309) 300-3606
Photo of Kelly McKenna, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly McKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of plot twists. It can be helpful to talk to someone outside of your family or friends to get a fresh perspective, new ideas, and objective feedback. Because no one has the same experiences, everyone has unique needs and challenges. Each person also has strengths and survival skills that have allowed him or her to get to this moment. Most people can't see their strengths and skills because they overlook, underestimate, or down play them.
Life is full of plot twists. It can be helpful to talk to someone outside of your family or friends to get a fresh perspective, new ideas, and objective feedback. Because no one has the same experiences, everyone has unique needs and challenges. Each person also has strengths and survival skills that have allowed him or her to get to this moment. Most people can't see their strengths and skills because they overlook, underestimate, or down play them.
(309) 408-0760 View (309) 408-0760
Photo of Alyssa Hoey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Hoey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Deciding to start therapy is a brave, difficult decision! You may find you are in a situation where you feel like you are stuck, have no where to turn, or are navigating some of the most difficult times of your life. I find that people are looking to be heard, to feel safe, and to find support. Having the experience of being listened to, of being validated, and being supported can be the beginning of the process of healing. I work to create a warm, safe, and open therapeutic space for you to bring any emotion you may be feeling. Together, we can navigate the challenges you are facing and work towards your path to healing.
Deciding to start therapy is a brave, difficult decision! You may find you are in a situation where you feel like you are stuck, have no where to turn, or are navigating some of the most difficult times of your life. I find that people are looking to be heard, to feel safe, and to find support. Having the experience of being listened to, of being validated, and being supported can be the beginning of the process of healing. I work to create a warm, safe, and open therapeutic space for you to bring any emotion you may be feeling. Together, we can navigate the challenges you are facing and work towards your path to healing.
(309) 248-6281 View (309) 248-6281
Photo of Kerry Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Immediate appointments available! Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you trying to overcome adversity or traumatic experiences? You have just taken the first step in the process of reaching your full potential. Not sure where to go from here? That's okay. I'm here to help. I am committed to walking with you in that journey by building a safe, nonjudgmental environment and helping you to find the answers within you.
Immediate appointments available! Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you trying to overcome adversity or traumatic experiences? You have just taken the first step in the process of reaching your full potential. Not sure where to go from here? That's okay. I'm here to help. I am committed to walking with you in that journey by building a safe, nonjudgmental environment and helping you to find the answers within you.
(309) 790-3582 View (309) 790-3582
Photo of Amanda Breeden, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Breeden
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
As a therapist and human being, I believe in the power of counseling and its success at different times in one's life, whether for the purpose of personal growth or to address more serious mental health concerns or problematic behaviors. As a foundation to the counseling relationship, I help clients and families understand the process of therapy and that all people, children and adults, grow and heal on their own time. I believe that by providing a safe and supportive environment, clients are able to make positive, lasting change.
As a therapist and human being, I believe in the power of counseling and its success at different times in one's life, whether for the purpose of personal growth or to address more serious mental health concerns or problematic behaviors. As a foundation to the counseling relationship, I help clients and families understand the process of therapy and that all people, children and adults, grow and heal on their own time. I believe that by providing a safe and supportive environment, clients are able to make positive, lasting change.
(309) 733-4074 View (309) 733-4074
Photo of Caitlin Reeves, MA, LCPC
Caitlin Reeves
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Caitlin's clinical specialties include treatment of children and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, transitions in life, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crises intervention. Her style of counseling is sympathetic, client centered and solution focused. She assists her clients in reducing mental health symptoms and improving their quality of life. She believes that therapy is a collaborative effort between client and therapist in which the counselor helps the client live their best life possible
Caitlin's clinical specialties include treatment of children and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, transitions in life, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crises intervention. Her style of counseling is sympathetic, client centered and solution focused. She assists her clients in reducing mental health symptoms and improving their quality of life. She believes that therapy is a collaborative effort between client and therapist in which the counselor helps the client live their best life possible
(309) 233-2156 View (309) 233-2156
Photo of Emerick Fulton, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emerick Fulton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
My goal is to create a counseling environment that encourages growth and healing. I work with clients to understand their situation and background in order to foster a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe in finding meaning in life even when it may be hard to pick out. I work from an existential perspective to help clients determine their purpose and create a space for them to work towards that purpose.
My goal is to create a counseling environment that encourages growth and healing. I work with clients to understand their situation and background in order to foster a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe in finding meaning in life even when it may be hard to pick out. I work from an existential perspective to help clients determine their purpose and create a space for them to work towards that purpose.
(309) 598-1145 View (309) 598-1145
Photo of Edye Stolz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edye Stolz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
I use an integrative and holistic approach to mental health and wellness, adjusting therapy based on client needs. My work focuses on adults addressing concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, life stages and changes, trauma, grief, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns. I am a cancer survivor and keenly aware of the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatments and I strive to help others manage these challenges.
I use an integrative and holistic approach to mental health and wellness, adjusting therapy based on client needs. My work focuses on adults addressing concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, life stages and changes, trauma, grief, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns. I am a cancer survivor and keenly aware of the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatments and I strive to help others manage these challenges.
(309) 790-3954 View (309) 790-3954
Photo of Nicole Noble, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Noble
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Dr. Noble is a Licensed Psychologist. She received her doctorate degree from Regent University and completed her pre-doctoral and post-doctoral internship at the Chicago Christian Training Consortium. One of Dr. Noble's most precious life roles is in having the opportunity to walk alongside individuals, as they reveal vulnerable aspects of their lives for which they are seeking support. It's such a treasured space for her to work in and it is an honor for her to journey with her patients. This is the reason that she chose this calling.
Dr. Noble is a Licensed Psychologist. She received her doctorate degree from Regent University and completed her pre-doctoral and post-doctoral internship at the Chicago Christian Training Consortium. One of Dr. Noble's most precious life roles is in having the opportunity to walk alongside individuals, as they reveal vulnerable aspects of their lives for which they are seeking support. It's such a treasured space for her to work in and it is an honor for her to journey with her patients. This is the reason that she chose this calling.
(309) 741-5995 View (309) 741-5995
Photo of Sandi Cross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandi Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I have spent my adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals while confronting the struggles along the way. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger management, and low self-esteem, I can help navigate these challenges and assist you with building effective skills. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults with a focus on anxiety, self-esteem, and behavioral concerns.
Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I have spent my adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals while confronting the struggles along the way. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger management, and low self-esteem, I can help navigate these challenges and assist you with building effective skills. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults with a focus on anxiety, self-esteem, and behavioral concerns.
(224) 263-4763 View (224) 263-4763
Photo of Paul Schellenberg, LCPC, Counselor
Paul Schellenberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
(309) 265-0504 View (309) 265-0504
Photo of Daniel Osterloo, LCPC
Daniel Osterloo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
My goal is to help clients achieve as much out of life as possible. I love seeing people live the type of life that makes them happy. Many times, one's full potential for happiness gets overshadowed by life's stressors. During counseling, I guide clients to shed the layers of stress that are creating unnecessary weight. I work with many clients who experience depression and anxiety. I can help you navigate these feelings and find ways to manage your symptoms. I am passionate about helping clients who have experienced trauma. I can help you empower yourself by processing emotions and gaining insight.
My goal is to help clients achieve as much out of life as possible. I love seeing people live the type of life that makes them happy. Many times, one's full potential for happiness gets overshadowed by life's stressors. During counseling, I guide clients to shed the layers of stress that are creating unnecessary weight. I work with many clients who experience depression and anxiety. I can help you navigate these feelings and find ways to manage your symptoms. I am passionate about helping clients who have experienced trauma. I can help you empower yourself by processing emotions and gaining insight.
(779) 237-2237 View (779) 237-2237

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
65% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
61% Aetna

How Therapists in Peoria, IL see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Peoria?

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.