Therapists in Shorewood, IL

Sierra Lanai Sturghill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Sierra's ideal client would be an adult going through a transition of life (e.g., divorce, relocation, grief, LGBTQ+, interpersonal issues, family issues). Whether this is your first time going to therapy or your 50th, Sierra provides a genuine safe approach that makes her clients feel comfortable to open up to her about anything.
Sierra's ideal client would be an adult going through a transition of life (e.g., divorce, relocation, grief, LGBTQ+, interpersonal issues, family issues). Whether this is your first time going to therapy or your 50th, Sierra provides a genuine safe approach that makes her clients feel comfortable to open up to her about anything.
(815) 336-5042 View (815) 336-5042
Photo of Dr. Deborah Wilke, EdD, LCPC, FAPA, Counselor
Dr. Deborah Wilke
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404  (Online Only)
What? Me go to therapy? Yep. Every car functions better with a tune-up! I am the Founder and Owner of Compassionate Counseling. The practice was given this name because that is what I offer clients who are seeking professional help. The predominant specialty of my practice is treating those with gender identity concerns or sexual orientation issues. I am proud to have founded the first-ever professionally facilitated support group for transgender individuals in Illinois. I am also committed to helping those who have survived the loss of a loved one through death or the death of a relationship, and those who have survived trauma.
What? Me go to therapy? Yep. Every car functions better with a tune-up! I am the Founder and Owner of Compassionate Counseling. The practice was given this name because that is what I offer clients who are seeking professional help. The predominant specialty of my practice is treating those with gender identity concerns or sexual orientation issues. I am proud to have founded the first-ever professionally facilitated support group for transgender individuals in Illinois. I am also committed to helping those who have survived the loss of a loved one through death or the death of a relationship, and those who have survived trauma.
(630) 854-7030 View (630) 854-7030
Photo of Angela Farris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Farris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60404
My name is Angela Farris, and I am a Licensed Clinician Social Worker with more than 12 years of experience in the field. I have a strong background working with depression, anxiety, and trauma, and I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-informed modalities. I have enjoyed working with a diverse group of individuals with a wide range of diagnoses. I am a Christian woman who believes in treating everyone equally and with respect and kindness.
My name is Angela Farris, and I am a Licensed Clinician Social Worker with more than 12 years of experience in the field. I have a strong background working with depression, anxiety, and trauma, and I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-informed modalities. I have enjoyed working with a diverse group of individuals with a wide range of diagnoses. I am a Christian woman who believes in treating everyone equally and with respect and kindness.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Janea Meeks, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Janea Meeks
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to your first step! I commend you on taking the time to research counselors. Maybe you have decided you just need a sound board or maybe you are ready for a complete over-hall. Either way, you took the time to start researching and believe it or not, that's the first step. I'm a licensed professional counselor and I would love the opportunity to walk in this journey with you. However, you'll want to make sure you find a good fit with someone you trust.
Hello and welcome to your first step! I commend you on taking the time to research counselors. Maybe you have decided you just need a sound board or maybe you are ready for a complete over-hall. Either way, you took the time to start researching and believe it or not, that's the first step. I'm a licensed professional counselor and I would love the opportunity to walk in this journey with you. However, you'll want to make sure you find a good fit with someone you trust.
View
Photo of Kristin Kallas, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Kallas
Marriage & Family Therapist, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Kristin is an experienced counselor, with a Master’s Degree in both Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. She specializes in couples of all ages, who are experiencing challenges with sexual and emotional intimacy, as well high stress and/or anxiety with their partners or within their family system. Kristin works with individuals and families, and sees clients ages 10+. Areas of focus is individuals dealing with depression, interpersonal issues, illness/medical issues, life changes/adjustment disorder, pre-marital/engagement issues, relationship issues, self-esteem/self-worth and women’s issues.
Kristin is an experienced counselor, with a Master’s Degree in both Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. She specializes in couples of all ages, who are experiencing challenges with sexual and emotional intimacy, as well high stress and/or anxiety with their partners or within their family system. Kristin works with individuals and families, and sees clients ages 10+. Areas of focus is individuals dealing with depression, interpersonal issues, illness/medical issues, life changes/adjustment disorder, pre-marital/engagement issues, relationship issues, self-esteem/self-worth and women’s issues.
(331) 259-8418 View (331) 259-8418
Photo of Robert J Schutten, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Robert J Schutten
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60404
Not accepting new clients
Adult individuals and couples seeking help – Deciding to take the first step to make changes in your life can be overwhelming. We will work together to build a trusting safe relationship and environment. Building our therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to working toward the true permanent changes you are seeking. I believe in a holistic approach that explores all aspects of your life to find root causes, collaborate a direction/treatment plan, set goals, and continue our collaboration toward reaching your goals.
Adult individuals and couples seeking help – Deciding to take the first step to make changes in your life can be overwhelming. We will work together to build a trusting safe relationship and environment. Building our therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to working toward the true permanent changes you are seeking. I believe in a holistic approach that explores all aspects of your life to find root causes, collaborate a direction/treatment plan, set goals, and continue our collaboration toward reaching your goals.
(815) 576-2060 View (815) 576-2060
Photo of Gwen E. Ginski, MEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen E. Ginski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Not accepting new clients
Everyone faces challenges in life. Seeking help for yourself, your child or relationship when experiencing difficulty is a strength which leads to creating a more fulfilling, healthy & happy life. With 18+ years' experience, I have helped many to overcome anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, loss, etc. I have helped couples restore intimacy/connection and learn ways to communicate. Children/teens learn ways to cope and manage social/school stress. Parents learn ways to connect, manage behaviors and heal their relationships with their children. Families heal from loss, life's transitions, substance abuse, divorce, mental illness.
Everyone faces challenges in life. Seeking help for yourself, your child or relationship when experiencing difficulty is a strength which leads to creating a more fulfilling, healthy & happy life. With 18+ years' experience, I have helped many to overcome anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, loss, etc. I have helped couples restore intimacy/connection and learn ways to communicate. Children/teens learn ways to cope and manage social/school stress. Parents learn ways to connect, manage behaviors and heal their relationships with their children. Families heal from loss, life's transitions, substance abuse, divorce, mental illness.
(815) 313-4161 View (815) 313-4161
Photo of Dr. Kavita Ajmere, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kavita Ajmere
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404  (Online Only)
I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live better. People can change. There is hope, and there are answers. At my practice, I offer compassionate and expert therapy for individuals seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I start with a thorough assessment to understand your unique needs, then create a personalized treatment plan and guide you through each step of your healing journey. I offer a safe and inclusive environment with specific treatments backed by extensive experience so you can feel heard, supported, and ready to move forward.
I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live better. People can change. There is hope, and there are answers. At my practice, I offer compassionate and expert therapy for individuals seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I start with a thorough assessment to understand your unique needs, then create a personalized treatment plan and guide you through each step of your healing journey. I offer a safe and inclusive environment with specific treatments backed by extensive experience so you can feel heard, supported, and ready to move forward.
(323) 870-1022 View (323) 870-1022
Photo of Izabela Lomnicki, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Izabela Lomnicki
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
I am passionate about helping people progress through their struggles. During difficult times we need guidance and support to help us cope, transition, and work through difficulties that at times keep us stuck. With compassion, I offer support, and help my clients develop skills and understanding into dealing with issues and learning to take on new approaches to life. My specialities include eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, and anxieties. The best investment you can make is taking the time to grow, and empower yourself.
I am passionate about helping people progress through their struggles. During difficult times we need guidance and support to help us cope, transition, and work through difficulties that at times keep us stuck. With compassion, I offer support, and help my clients develop skills and understanding into dealing with issues and learning to take on new approaches to life. My specialities include eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, and anxieties. The best investment you can make is taking the time to grow, and empower yourself.
(331) 204-0263 View (331) 204-0263
Photo of Cesar Madrigal - Madrigal Consulting and Counseling, LLP, LCSW, PhD, MEd, CADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madrigal Consulting and Counseling, LLP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, MEd, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60404
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(630) 413-9942 View (630) 413-9942
Photo of Elizabeth Doud, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Doud
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Beth's ideal client is a young woman (age 20-35) navigating her identity and striving to prioritize self-care amidst her responsibilities. She believe that clients inherently know when a counselor is not the right fit and encourage them to find someone they feel comfortable with. Beth highly values receiving feedback and working collaboratively with each client to identify their goals in therapy and assess their feelings about progress and sessions throughout their time together. Beth's aim is to provide a supportive space where young women can explore and grow.
Beth's ideal client is a young woman (age 20-35) navigating her identity and striving to prioritize self-care amidst her responsibilities. She believe that clients inherently know when a counselor is not the right fit and encourage them to find someone they feel comfortable with. Beth highly values receiving feedback and working collaboratively with each client to identify their goals in therapy and assess their feelings about progress and sessions throughout their time together. Beth's aim is to provide a supportive space where young women can explore and grow.
(779) 261-2378 View (779) 261-2378
Photo of Whitney McDaniel, LCPC, Counselor
Whitney McDaniel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Whitney is the Director of Associates in Professional Counseling’s High Conflict Mediation Institute division which helps families struggling through divorce. She is a certified Mediator, trained at Northwestern University and a certified Parent Coordinator for the courts. As a Parent Coordinator, Whitney assists parents in creating a healthy co-parenting relationship by reducing conflict and making decisions in the children's best interest. She also provides Reunification therapy which aims to reintroduce a parent (or parents) back into a child’s life in a safe and controlled manner.
Whitney is the Director of Associates in Professional Counseling’s High Conflict Mediation Institute division which helps families struggling through divorce. She is a certified Mediator, trained at Northwestern University and a certified Parent Coordinator for the courts. As a Parent Coordinator, Whitney assists parents in creating a healthy co-parenting relationship by reducing conflict and making decisions in the children's best interest. She also provides Reunification therapy which aims to reintroduce a parent (or parents) back into a child’s life in a safe and controlled manner.
(815) 887-6030 View (815) 887-6030
Photo of Amy Ray, PhD, Psychologist
Amy Ray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60404
Not accepting new clients
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME* Change and healing are possible. I want you to know that you do not have to go through difficult times alone. I would be honored to help you along in your journey. You can learn new ways to cope that make you feel good about yourself. You can learn to stop struggling with self doubt, uncertainty, or feelings of worthlessness. Let me help you by providing a professional and safe place for you to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or shame. We will work together as a team to find solutions that work for you.
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME* Change and healing are possible. I want you to know that you do not have to go through difficult times alone. I would be honored to help you along in your journey. You can learn new ways to cope that make you feel good about yourself. You can learn to stop struggling with self doubt, uncertainty, or feelings of worthlessness. Let me help you by providing a professional and safe place for you to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or shame. We will work together as a team to find solutions that work for you.
(815) 828-4396 View (815) 828-4396
Photo of Terri LaRae Griswold-Dodgson, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Terri LaRae Griswold-Dodgson
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60435  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping individuals who have been wounded physically, emotionally and spiritually to become whole and restored. During my professional career I have worked with individuals of all ages who suffer from traumatic experiences, mood disorders, chronic illness, grief and loss, crisis intervention and a host of other issues. I am a certified premarital/marital counseling facilitator with PREPARE/ENRICH.
I have a passion for helping individuals who have been wounded physically, emotionally and spiritually to become whole and restored. During my professional career I have worked with individuals of all ages who suffer from traumatic experiences, mood disorders, chronic illness, grief and loss, crisis intervention and a host of other issues. I am a certified premarital/marital counseling facilitator with PREPARE/ENRICH.
(815) 770-5230 View (815) 770-5230
Photo of Amber Boeschel, LCPC
Amber Boeschel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
Committing to starting therapy can be hard. I will work side by side with you to identify what's not working and how to make healthy changes. I strive to make the therapy process as enjoyable and positive as possible and I recognize the importance of respecting your time and goals in treatment. I have over 10 years of experience in the field working with adults and teens who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and addiction related issues. I have extensive experience working with first responders and within the criminal justice system. I look forward to collaborating with you!
Committing to starting therapy can be hard. I will work side by side with you to identify what's not working and how to make healthy changes. I strive to make the therapy process as enjoyable and positive as possible and I recognize the importance of respecting your time and goals in treatment. I have over 10 years of experience in the field working with adults and teens who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and addiction related issues. I have extensive experience working with first responders and within the criminal justice system. I look forward to collaborating with you!
(708) 866-0162 View (708) 866-0162
Photo of Dana Torres, LCPC, Counselor
Dana Torres
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
I have provided counseling in a wide range of settings including schools, group homes, and agencies. Prior to entering private practice, I had over seven years of experience in the child welfare system working with children, adults, and families involved in foster care. In working with clients heavily impacted by trauma, I have had the opportunity to treat a vast array of mental health conditions including but not limited to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), attachment problems, adjustment disorders, behavior/conduct problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-injury, interpersonal problems, and grief/bereavement.
I have provided counseling in a wide range of settings including schools, group homes, and agencies. Prior to entering private practice, I had over seven years of experience in the child welfare system working with children, adults, and families involved in foster care. In working with clients heavily impacted by trauma, I have had the opportunity to treat a vast array of mental health conditions including but not limited to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), attachment problems, adjustment disorders, behavior/conduct problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-injury, interpersonal problems, and grief/bereavement.
(720) 704-1185 View (720) 704-1185
Photo of Olena Hartline, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olena Hartline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
I see children, adolescents and adults for individual therapy and couples therapy. I utilize a client centered approach where I give unconditional positive regard to my clients in a non-judgmental therapeutic setting. I have seen clients meet their treatment goals and develop positive coping skills to effectively manage their distressing symptoms. The greatest gift of therapy is the therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the client that elicits change and allows the client to use the tools that they have learned to make lifelong gains.
I see children, adolescents and adults for individual therapy and couples therapy. I utilize a client centered approach where I give unconditional positive regard to my clients in a non-judgmental therapeutic setting. I have seen clients meet their treatment goals and develop positive coping skills to effectively manage their distressing symptoms. The greatest gift of therapy is the therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the client that elicits change and allows the client to use the tools that they have learned to make lifelong gains.
(630) 674-3477 View (630) 674-3477
Photo of Vessela Andreeva, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Vessela Andreeva
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404
I offer expert, compassionate, individualized counseling to help clients find insight into their feelings, behavior and relationships.
I offer expert, compassionate, individualized counseling to help clients find insight into their feelings, behavior and relationships.
(815) 345-2595 View (815) 345-2595
Photo of Leigh Bancsy, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Leigh Bancsy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60431
Taking the first step to begin the counseling process can be a difficult one, as the decision to make changes in your life can be overwhelming. I believe in providing a safe, caring and compassionate environment for my clients that enables them to acquire the skills they need to lead a fulfilling life. Utilizing cognitive-behavioral and play therapies, I assist clients with identifying obstacles they wish to overcome in their lives. I strive to establish a supportive, trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients to assist them in reaching their goals.
Taking the first step to begin the counseling process can be a difficult one, as the decision to make changes in your life can be overwhelming. I believe in providing a safe, caring and compassionate environment for my clients that enables them to acquire the skills they need to lead a fulfilling life. Utilizing cognitive-behavioral and play therapies, I assist clients with identifying obstacles they wish to overcome in their lives. I strive to establish a supportive, trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients to assist them in reaching their goals.
(815) 206-8431 View (815) 206-8431
Photo of David Salas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Salas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shorewood, IL 60431
My interest as a licensed therapist in private practice is based on my background and experience. I have a master's degree from Loyola University in social work. I have gained well-rounded experience working with children, families, couples, and single adults in various settings which include schools, and psychiatric inpatient/outpatient hospitals. I also have great experience working with those who have experienced traumatic events that have impacted their quality of life. I also have extensive experience in depression and anxiety disorders. I dont just look at short term relief, but also get to the origins of where they stem from
My interest as a licensed therapist in private practice is based on my background and experience. I have a master's degree from Loyola University in social work. I have gained well-rounded experience working with children, families, couples, and single adults in various settings which include schools, and psychiatric inpatient/outpatient hospitals. I also have great experience working with those who have experienced traumatic events that have impacted their quality of life. I also have extensive experience in depression and anxiety disorders. I dont just look at short term relief, but also get to the origins of where they stem from
(773) 796-3937 View (773) 796-3937
1

See more therapy options for Shorewood

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Shorewood, IL

40+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Shorewood, IL who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
78% Relationship Issues
76% Stress
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
71% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Aetna

How Therapists in Shorewood, IL see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Shorewood?

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.