Therapists in Florida

View cities and counties in Florida
Photo of Matthew R Gold, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matthew R Gold
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
We live in a world which is more confusing than ever, where struggle is the norm rather than the exception. Many people feel lost and are struggling to find their own way in a world which feels so out of control. I believe that everyone has within them infinite potential for joy but that sometimes things get in the way of living out that joy. I am passionate about working with people who are ready to move past these obstacles and pursue a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
We live in a world which is more confusing than ever, where struggle is the norm rather than the exception. Many people feel lost and are struggling to find their own way in a world which feels so out of control. I believe that everyone has within them infinite potential for joy but that sometimes things get in the way of living out that joy. I am passionate about working with people who are ready to move past these obstacles and pursue a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(321) 346-7602 View (321) 346-7602
Photo of Amanda Powell, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Powell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my profile, and congratulations on taking the first step towards creating the best version of yourself! My name is Amanda and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been working with children / teens and their families for over a decade. I graduated with a Masters in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida in 2011 and became licensed as a Mental Health Counselor with the state of Florida in 2013. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings including: outpatient clinics, in schools, in home, and in group homes for teens.
Thank you for visiting my profile, and congratulations on taking the first step towards creating the best version of yourself! My name is Amanda and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been working with children / teens and their families for over a decade. I graduated with a Masters in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida in 2011 and became licensed as a Mental Health Counselor with the state of Florida in 2013. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings including: outpatient clinics, in schools, in home, and in group homes for teens.
(786) 788-8027 View (786) 788-8027
Photo of Katy Oswald, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katy Oswald
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Rockledge, FL 32955
Not your mother’s therapist! Let’s cut the BS and tackle your mental health head-on with realistic strategies to unleash your inner badass. Stuck in a mental loop? Break free with EMDR therapy! Say goodbye to old traumas and hello to a brighter, more balanced you. Let's rewire those thought patterns together for lasting change. It's like uncovering the hidden gem version of yourself that's been hiding out.
Not your mother’s therapist! Let’s cut the BS and tackle your mental health head-on with realistic strategies to unleash your inner badass. Stuck in a mental loop? Break free with EMDR therapy! Say goodbye to old traumas and hello to a brighter, more balanced you. Let's rewire those thought patterns together for lasting change. It's like uncovering the hidden gem version of yourself that's been hiding out.
(321) 985-6091 View (321) 985-6091
Photo of Patrick Anglade Casthely - A Journey To Well-Being LLC, PhD, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
A Journey To Well-Being LLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
I am a licensed psychotherapist with a doctorates in philosophy, who specializes in treating individuals experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a individualized therapeutic relationship, with my clients that will inspire courage to navigate life's challenges. With an understanding and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, I recognize that no single approach is right for everyone and strive to integrate various therapeutic orientations and interventions.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with a doctorates in philosophy, who specializes in treating individuals experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a individualized therapeutic relationship, with my clients that will inspire courage to navigate life's challenges. With an understanding and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, I recognize that no single approach is right for everyone and strive to integrate various therapeutic orientations and interventions.
(321) 306-0254 View (321) 306-0254
Photo of Leslie Danner, EdS, LSP
Leslie Danner
EdS, LSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Ms. Danner has specialized training in school-related assessment and educational intervention for children 2-16 years old but specializes in working with preschool and elementary grade level children. Ms. Danner takes pride in conducting comprehensive neurodevelopmental and psychoeducational evaluations for giftedness, specific learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, behavioral disorders, and mood disorders. Ms. Danner also regularly conducts school/classroom observations and works with both parents and teachers as a behavior interventionist, offering guidance and strategies to help meet the needs of the whole child.
Ms. Danner has specialized training in school-related assessment and educational intervention for children 2-16 years old but specializes in working with preschool and elementary grade level children. Ms. Danner takes pride in conducting comprehensive neurodevelopmental and psychoeducational evaluations for giftedness, specific learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, behavioral disorders, and mood disorders. Ms. Danner also regularly conducts school/classroom observations and works with both parents and teachers as a behavior interventionist, offering guidance and strategies to help meet the needs of the whole child.
(239) 990-5376 View (239) 990-5376
Photo of Kayla Chenault, MEd, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Chenault
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901  (Online Only)
One of the most formidable challenges in life is confronting oneself. It is often tempting to evade the difficulties that arise. Searching for hope with no direction can be frustrating. Perhaps you find yourself grappling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or the overwhelming pressures of everyday life. Acquiring evidenced based skills to navigate and combat these issues can cultivate a liberating sense of freedom and empowerment. When we choose to face ourselves, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, which involves exploring the innermost of our thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
One of the most formidable challenges in life is confronting oneself. It is often tempting to evade the difficulties that arise. Searching for hope with no direction can be frustrating. Perhaps you find yourself grappling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or the overwhelming pressures of everyday life. Acquiring evidenced based skills to navigate and combat these issues can cultivate a liberating sense of freedom and empowerment. When we choose to face ourselves, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, which involves exploring the innermost of our thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
(772) 277-2486 View (772) 277-2486
Photo of Kahlia Bersson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kahlia Bersson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist treating adults dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. Their needs include a safe and non-judgmental space to express themselves, gain insight into their emotions and behaviors, and develop effective coping strategies. Their goals may revolve around achieving greater self-awareness, building healthier relationships, and finding fulfillment and purpose in their lives. They want these changes because they desire personal growth, emotional well-being, and a more satisfying life.
I am a licensed therapist treating adults dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. Their needs include a safe and non-judgmental space to express themselves, gain insight into their emotions and behaviors, and develop effective coping strategies. Their goals may revolve around achieving greater self-awareness, building healthier relationships, and finding fulfillment and purpose in their lives. They want these changes because they desire personal growth, emotional well-being, and a more satisfying life.
(561) 462-8235 View (561) 462-8235
Photo of Katherine Lance, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Katherine Lance
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kissimmee, FL 34747  (Online Only)
Is anxiety causing problems in your relationships and/or career? Is there something you're struggling to move past? Katherine is passionate about helping people heal from their trauma, break their anxiety cycle, learn how to soothe their nervous system and reclaim their personal power. Having 16 years counseling experience, Katherine enjoys helping people live in the present, tend to their wounds from the past, regulate emotions, challenge irrational beliefs, build healthier boundaries and find secure attachment within themself and with their partner.
Is anxiety causing problems in your relationships and/or career? Is there something you're struggling to move past? Katherine is passionate about helping people heal from their trauma, break their anxiety cycle, learn how to soothe their nervous system and reclaim their personal power. Having 16 years counseling experience, Katherine enjoys helping people live in the present, tend to their wounds from the past, regulate emotions, challenge irrational beliefs, build healthier boundaries and find secure attachment within themself and with their partner.
(321) 449-2161 View (321) 449-2161
Photo of Lynne Harkless, PhD, Psychologist
Lynne Harkless
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33146
I am a licensed psychologist and psychoanalyst specializing in adult individual psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I focus on developing deeper understanding of you and the role of your unconscious conflicts in the difficulties you are having. Discovering how and why you may be unconsciously contributing to your difficulties helps free you to change. We all unintentionally and unconsciously contribute to our obstacles. Finding out exactly how, when, and why you may inadvertently undermine yourself frees you to change in powerful ways. It can also help with difficult problems that nothing else has helped.
I am a licensed psychologist and psychoanalyst specializing in adult individual psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I focus on developing deeper understanding of you and the role of your unconscious conflicts in the difficulties you are having. Discovering how and why you may be unconsciously contributing to your difficulties helps free you to change. We all unintentionally and unconsciously contribute to our obstacles. Finding out exactly how, when, and why you may inadvertently undermine yourself frees you to change in powerful ways. It can also help with difficult problems that nothing else has helped.
(305) 834-4227 View (305) 834-4227
Photo of Douglass Adrien Lobo, LMHC, EdD, Counselor
Douglass Adrien Lobo
Counselor, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
Dr. Lobo is an educated, experienced, and licensed mental health professional. He has extensive experience working with children, teenagers, and their families. He has successfully worked with some of the most challenging youth in various settings, including the foster care, academic, and juvenile justice sectors in both the public and private sector. He currently consults with Miami-County Public Schools, New York Public Schools, and several Charter School Systems and operates a thriving private practice.
Dr. Lobo is an educated, experienced, and licensed mental health professional. He has extensive experience working with children, teenagers, and their families. He has successfully worked with some of the most challenging youth in various settings, including the foster care, academic, and juvenile justice sectors in both the public and private sector. He currently consults with Miami-County Public Schools, New York Public Schools, and several Charter School Systems and operates a thriving private practice.
(305) 783-3222 View (305) 783-3222
Photo of Kali Dore, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kali Dore
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Punta Gorda, FL 33982  (Online Only)
Please find me on www.headway.co/providers/kali-dore
Please find me on www.headway.co/providers/kali-dore
(239) 695-6840 View (239) 695-6840
Photo of Cynthia A Wheeler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia A Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33764
As my client you are valued, respected, encouraged, and honored in your journey toward emotional and mental health. I offer therapies that empower growth in the face of today’s obstacles and challenges through a holistic approach including nutrition, hydration, sleep, and exercise discussions. I utilize evidence-based practices such as CBT, SFBT, EFT, Family Systems, Guided Visualization, and Aromatherapy... These therapies and others are tailored with you for you. I offer a safe nonjudgmental place to examine your thoughts and ideas about self and others. Helping you be the best you can be.
As my client you are valued, respected, encouraged, and honored in your journey toward emotional and mental health. I offer therapies that empower growth in the face of today’s obstacles and challenges through a holistic approach including nutrition, hydration, sleep, and exercise discussions. I utilize evidence-based practices such as CBT, SFBT, EFT, Family Systems, Guided Visualization, and Aromatherapy... These therapies and others are tailored with you for you. I offer a safe nonjudgmental place to examine your thoughts and ideas about self and others. Helping you be the best you can be.
(727) 472-4657 View (727) 472-4657
Photo of Ivelisse Alvarez - ParenTeen Connecting Consulting, MEd
ParenTeen Connecting Consulting
MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Is your child or adolescent experiencing behavioral difficulties, academic failure, performance anxiety, mood swings, or is a victim of bullying? I specialize in CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS and families experiencing a wide variety of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relational problems. In a genuine, comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I help clients use their special unique qualities to find solutions to problems, enhance their relationships, build confidence, and develop a healthy sense of self.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Is your child or adolescent experiencing behavioral difficulties, academic failure, performance anxiety, mood swings, or is a victim of bullying? I specialize in CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS and families experiencing a wide variety of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relational problems. In a genuine, comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I help clients use their special unique qualities to find solutions to problems, enhance their relationships, build confidence, and develop a healthy sense of self.
(407) 901-3488 View (407) 901-3488
Photo of Larry Baumgartner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larry Baumgartner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Odessa, FL 33556  (Online Only)
IMMediate ONLINE openings in Florida! I specialize in Infidelity, Intimacy & Relationships. I help couples reconnect, rebuild and restore their relationship. Has there been an affair?, lacking intimacy and even communication? Your needs and desires have been forgotten for way too long. You are waiting for a touch or a sign that they truly care. Through it all you still have HOPE and want to heal and save this relationship. For nearly 10 years Best Hope Therapy has been providing pre-marital therapy, couples therapy, open, polyamorous and marriage counseling for all types of traditional and non traditional relationships.
IMMediate ONLINE openings in Florida! I specialize in Infidelity, Intimacy & Relationships. I help couples reconnect, rebuild and restore their relationship. Has there been an affair?, lacking intimacy and even communication? Your needs and desires have been forgotten for way too long. You are waiting for a touch or a sign that they truly care. Through it all you still have HOPE and want to heal and save this relationship. For nearly 10 years Best Hope Therapy has been providing pre-marital therapy, couples therapy, open, polyamorous and marriage counseling for all types of traditional and non traditional relationships.
(727) 946-1346 View (727) 946-1346
Photo of Emily Grace Rivera, MS, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Emily Grace Rivera
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apopka, FL 32712
My name is Emily and I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I first want to acknowledge how brave you are in taking this step towards healing. I look forward to walking with you on this journey. I'm here to empower and create a safe space for my clients who are facing untreated trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and the challenges of self-esteem and self-worth.
My name is Emily and I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I first want to acknowledge how brave you are in taking this step towards healing. I look forward to walking with you on this journey. I'm here to empower and create a safe space for my clients who are facing untreated trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and the challenges of self-esteem and self-worth.
(689) 407-2121 View (689) 407-2121
Photo of Margie Mader, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margie Mader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
It's so hard to be you isn't it? Being in a relationship and not feeling heard. Your needs not getting met. You're questioning if you should stay or leave. You've tried communicating in every way you can think of or not communicating and letting things "slide", but nothing changes. The frustration and resentment just builds. Before you make the decision to leave or decide to just sweep it under the rug and continue to be in pain, let me work with both of you.
It's so hard to be you isn't it? Being in a relationship and not feeling heard. Your needs not getting met. You're questioning if you should stay or leave. You've tried communicating in every way you can think of or not communicating and letting things "slide", but nothing changes. The frustration and resentment just builds. Before you make the decision to leave or decide to just sweep it under the rug and continue to be in pain, let me work with both of you.
(954) 871-2003 View (954) 871-2003
Photo of Shannon Wiseley, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Shannon Wiseley
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Having scary thoughts? Feeling like you're not a good mother? You are not alone! 1 in 5 women experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy and/or during the first year postpartum. With the right treatment, you can get better.
Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Having scary thoughts? Feeling like you're not a good mother? You are not alone! 1 in 5 women experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy and/or during the first year postpartum. With the right treatment, you can get better.
(239) 758-8533 View (239) 758-8533
Photo of Karlysse Mcmillon, LMHC, Counselor
Karlysse Mcmillon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do feel that you are caught in a never ending cycle of disappointment and/or stress. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and develop a plan for how to find balance and get back on track. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, deep breathing and other expressive techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do feel that you are caught in a never ending cycle of disappointment and/or stress. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and develop a plan for how to find balance and get back on track. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, deep breathing and other expressive techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
(321) 617-1529 View (321) 617-1529
Photo of Jason Vida - Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling, BA, CAC, Counselor
Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling
Counselor, BA, CAC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Jason Vida – I am an Addiction Counselor for the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling Baymeadows location and the Men’s Evening IOP Counselor at Cipriano and Johnson Counseling Jacksonville Beach location. Asking for help is the first step toward no longer having to struggle. Welcome to my profile. Who am I? Depending on who you ask, you’d get many different responses as I am many things to many different people. Professionally, I am an Addiction Counselor, because almost 20 years ago I was given the opportunity to tun my life around through the assistance of addiction treatment
Jason Vida – I am an Addiction Counselor for the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling Baymeadows location and the Men’s Evening IOP Counselor at Cipriano and Johnson Counseling Jacksonville Beach location. Asking for help is the first step toward no longer having to struggle. Welcome to my profile. Who am I? Depending on who you ask, you’d get many different responses as I am many things to many different people. Professionally, I am an Addiction Counselor, because almost 20 years ago I was given the opportunity to tun my life around through the assistance of addiction treatment
(904) 572-0242 View (904) 572-0242
Photo of Mary McInerney Lcsw Rpt-S, MA, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary McInerney Lcsw Rpt-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32822
Feeling stressed and frustrated with your child? Not sure how to help them or understand their behavior. I work collaboratively with you to understand your child and develop a healthier relationship and family life. Are you having big reactions, feeling stressed frequently, or have experienced trauma. I also love working with adults to deal with the difficult challenges life can bring. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified in EMDR, safe and sound protocol and a registered play therapist. I use Play/Sand Therapy, EMDR, SSP, ego states/parts work and parenting support/education.
Feeling stressed and frustrated with your child? Not sure how to help them or understand their behavior. I work collaboratively with you to understand your child and develop a healthier relationship and family life. Are you having big reactions, feeling stressed frequently, or have experienced trauma. I also love working with adults to deal with the difficult challenges life can bring. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified in EMDR, safe and sound protocol and a registered play therapist. I use Play/Sand Therapy, EMDR, SSP, ego states/parts work and parenting support/education.
(321) 274-4127 View (321) 274-4127
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How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Florida who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
71% Relationship Issues
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Florida see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Florida?

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.