Therapists in West Nyack, NY

Photo of Lukas Westbrook, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lukas Westbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Whether you are experiencing interpersonal relationship struggles, a life transition, emotional instability, or coping with a painful past, I will welcome you into a collaborative therapeutic relationship in order to gain insight into what makes you, you. We will work together to establish a trusting relationship that will allow you to develop self-awareness; from there, you can unpack and understand your pain, fears, hopes, memories, and experiences in order to tackle your current hardships and create positive change in your life.
Whether you are experiencing interpersonal relationship struggles, a life transition, emotional instability, or coping with a painful past, I will welcome you into a collaborative therapeutic relationship in order to gain insight into what makes you, you. We will work together to establish a trusting relationship that will allow you to develop self-awareness; from there, you can unpack and understand your pain, fears, hopes, memories, and experiences in order to tackle your current hardships and create positive change in your life.
(845) 253-5958 View (845) 253-5958
Photo of Hunter Harrow, MSW, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hunter Harrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
As individuals, we encounter various challenges in our life where we find ourselves needing help or support, to pick up the pieces. Sometimes life feels unbearable and we feel stuck, not sure where to venture to next. Many times, all we need is someone to create a non biased environment and hold space for any and all thoughts. At times like these, we want to find someone who feels comfortable and compatible to listen to insecurities, stories and fears, while feeling safe enough to navigate these tough, ambiguous times. We are all unique, and yearn to feel heard and validated during trying situations, and finding your voice helps.
As individuals, we encounter various challenges in our life where we find ourselves needing help or support, to pick up the pieces. Sometimes life feels unbearable and we feel stuck, not sure where to venture to next. Many times, all we need is someone to create a non biased environment and hold space for any and all thoughts. At times like these, we want to find someone who feels comfortable and compatible to listen to insecurities, stories and fears, while feeling safe enough to navigate these tough, ambiguous times. We are all unique, and yearn to feel heard and validated during trying situations, and finding your voice helps.
(845) 280-6210 View (845) 280-6210
Photo of Jacqueline Kelly, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
Transitioning into young adulthood is difficult enough. Coupled with the impact of a now-fading pandemic, it’s no wonder that many young adults report feeling distressed and unprepared to launch into a healthy independence with their self-esteem and confidence intact. I work extensively with young adults struggling with the transition into and out of college, who may be experiencing anxiety and depression, to help make sense of this difficult period in their lives; together we will collaborate and create a path forward. I also specialize with adults dealing with grief and loss, and work with communication and relationship issues.
Transitioning into young adulthood is difficult enough. Coupled with the impact of a now-fading pandemic, it’s no wonder that many young adults report feeling distressed and unprepared to launch into a healthy independence with their self-esteem and confidence intact. I work extensively with young adults struggling with the transition into and out of college, who may be experiencing anxiety and depression, to help make sense of this difficult period in their lives; together we will collaborate and create a path forward. I also specialize with adults dealing with grief and loss, and work with communication and relationship issues.
(845) 609-1424 View (845) 609-1424
Photo of Jamie Hopper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Hopper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
What is self-esteem? How do we have it or create it? Why do some seem to have it more than others do? I can help you find answers to such questions and much more. I offer my clients a safe and inviting space to explore themselves on a deep, emotional level and uncover things about themselves they did not realize were there.
What is self-esteem? How do we have it or create it? Why do some seem to have it more than others do? I can help you find answers to such questions and much more. I offer my clients a safe and inviting space to explore themselves on a deep, emotional level and uncover things about themselves they did not realize were there.
(845) 210-9867 View (845) 210-9867
Photo of Emily D'Auria, LMHC, Counselor
Emily D'Auria
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
All people struggle. All people have unique experiences and make choices. All people experience pain, fear, and loss. All people deserve safety and loving kindness. All people are capable of growth and learning. All people have inherent goodness. Emily D'Auria believes strongly that the universality of human experience shows us we all have more in common than not. In periods of suffering and struggle, individuals may feel alone and unreachable. By fostering therapeutic connection rooted in warmth and safety, Emily works to facilitate an individual's ability to come back to their true selves.
All people struggle. All people have unique experiences and make choices. All people experience pain, fear, and loss. All people deserve safety and loving kindness. All people are capable of growth and learning. All people have inherent goodness. Emily D'Auria believes strongly that the universality of human experience shows us we all have more in common than not. In periods of suffering and struggle, individuals may feel alone and unreachable. By fostering therapeutic connection rooted in warmth and safety, Emily works to facilitate an individual's ability to come back to their true selves.
(914) 809-9594 View (914) 809-9594
Photo of Laurie Cargulia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Cargulia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Samuel Smiles once said "Hope is like the sun, which, as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us". There are times in our lives when we struggle and feel emotionally powerless. We try to do the best we can but sometimes we need help in appreciating and rediscovering our strengths and developing strategies to help ourselves move forward. I can help you appreciate the strengths you possess and increase your confidence to assist you in all aspects of your life. Life is full of challenges and together we can work toward enhancing your core sense of self.
Samuel Smiles once said "Hope is like the sun, which, as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us". There are times in our lives when we struggle and feel emotionally powerless. We try to do the best we can but sometimes we need help in appreciating and rediscovering our strengths and developing strategies to help ourselves move forward. I can help you appreciate the strengths you possess and increase your confidence to assist you in all aspects of your life. Life is full of challenges and together we can work toward enhancing your core sense of self.
(845) 266-6830 View (845) 266-6830
Photo of Migdalia Valdes Interpersonal And Phase Of Life Therapist, MFA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Migdalia Valdes Interpersonal And Phase Of Life Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
If you have come to Psychology Today, you've probably made the decision to seek or research assistance, help; congratulations. My approach to therapy includes listening with active engagement, mindfulness and an insight oriented focus. Together, we create an honest space to talk, one centered directly around you, your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Therapy takes courage, commitment, and time. I am here to work with you, hear what you have to say, helping you to understand and heal so you can continue your journey through life on your own terms.
If you have come to Psychology Today, you've probably made the decision to seek or research assistance, help; congratulations. My approach to therapy includes listening with active engagement, mindfulness and an insight oriented focus. Together, we create an honest space to talk, one centered directly around you, your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Therapy takes courage, commitment, and time. I am here to work with you, hear what you have to say, helping you to understand and heal so you can continue your journey through life on your own terms.
(845) 218-7969 View (845) 218-7969
Photo of Luisa Spadafino, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luisa Spadafino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Luisa Spadafino has been a practicing Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2016. She received two Masters Degrees from Rutgers University and Mercy College, and has a particular focus of addressing various forms of trauma. This includes domestic violence, sexual assault/childhood sexual abuse, human trafficking, hate crimes, and other forms of trauma. Luisa is a systemic therapist with training in EMDR to address symptomology as well as DBT and CBT interventions.
Luisa Spadafino has been a practicing Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2016. She received two Masters Degrees from Rutgers University and Mercy College, and has a particular focus of addressing various forms of trauma. This includes domestic violence, sexual assault/childhood sexual abuse, human trafficking, hate crimes, and other forms of trauma. Luisa is a systemic therapist with training in EMDR to address symptomology as well as DBT and CBT interventions.
(914) 612-5848 View (914) 612-5848
Photo of Réka Foster, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Réka Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
Welcome to Rèka Foster therapy. Whether you are trying to find solution for severe marital impasse, family conflict or dealing with anxiety, depression, psychotherapy is a great tool to address, change and discover new ways to live your life at your full potential. Rèka specializes and has excessive experience in group therapy, family, couples systemic psychotherapy and intervention as well as PTSD, trauma, complex trauma treatment, reduction of anxiety and depression.
Welcome to Rèka Foster therapy. Whether you are trying to find solution for severe marital impasse, family conflict or dealing with anxiety, depression, psychotherapy is a great tool to address, change and discover new ways to live your life at your full potential. Rèka specializes and has excessive experience in group therapy, family, couples systemic psychotherapy and intervention as well as PTSD, trauma, complex trauma treatment, reduction of anxiety and depression.
(845) 253-9172 View (845) 253-9172
Photo of Donald William Albright Jr, LMHC
Donald William Albright Jr
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994  (Online Only)
I primarily work with adults either individally or as couples who have anxiety, self esteem, anger managment and communication issues. They often want to feel better about themselves, feel less stress and want to communicate their needs to their partners effectively. My clients are searching for happiness and fulfillment in their daily lives and want to develop the tools needed to be able to accomplish this.
I primarily work with adults either individally or as couples who have anxiety, self esteem, anger managment and communication issues. They often want to feel better about themselves, feel less stress and want to communicate their needs to their partners effectively. My clients are searching for happiness and fulfillment in their daily lives and want to develop the tools needed to be able to accomplish this.
(845) 379-3293 View (845) 379-3293
Photo of Ahxia Stanton, LMHC
Ahxia Stanton
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Ahxia Stanton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2021. She received her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at SUNY New Paltz. Ahxia provides holistic psychotherapy with a focus on BIPOC/ WOC, Couples, and young adults. Her experience entails providing direct counseling to those struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-image. Ahxia also works with couples dealing with infidelity, newlyweds, premarital and other attachment issues that may strain a relationship.
Ahxia Stanton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2021. She received her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at SUNY New Paltz. Ahxia provides holistic psychotherapy with a focus on BIPOC/ WOC, Couples, and young adults. Her experience entails providing direct counseling to those struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-image. Ahxia also works with couples dealing with infidelity, newlyweds, premarital and other attachment issues that may strain a relationship.
(914) 600-8008 View (914) 600-8008
Photo of Agnes Gambale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Agnes Gambale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Agnes M. Gambale, LCSW Agnes M. Gambale is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York who has been practicing since 1991. Agnes has worked in both the inpatient and outpatient setting over the course of her career both as a clinician and an Administrator. She helps individuals restore their vitality and resume a life of meaning and purpose. Depression, anxiety, trauma, hyperactivity, and stress are just some of the many issues that are part of one's complicated life that can lead to dysfunction and suffering.
Agnes M. Gambale, LCSW Agnes M. Gambale is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York who has been practicing since 1991. Agnes has worked in both the inpatient and outpatient setting over the course of her career both as a clinician and an Administrator. She helps individuals restore their vitality and resume a life of meaning and purpose. Depression, anxiety, trauma, hyperactivity, and stress are just some of the many issues that are part of one's complicated life that can lead to dysfunction and suffering.
(914) 491-6399 View (914) 491-6399
Photo of Bill DeSiena, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bill DeSiena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
Stress, anxiety and depression can surface as reactive anger, sadness, as isolating from others, and just feel exhausting. I work with adults (many men) to remove obstacles, find emotional clarity and meaning, and open the door to lasting change. I believe therapy to be a partnership where we build trust, become curious and collaborate on how best to remove blocks and old patterns, and acquire tools along the way toward a more fulfilled life. I seek to empower adults who struggle with trauma/PTSD, grief, at-risk behaviors, self-esteem, relationship and attachment difficulties, the codependency-narcissism bond, and life transitions.
Stress, anxiety and depression can surface as reactive anger, sadness, as isolating from others, and just feel exhausting. I work with adults (many men) to remove obstacles, find emotional clarity and meaning, and open the door to lasting change. I believe therapy to be a partnership where we build trust, become curious and collaborate on how best to remove blocks and old patterns, and acquire tools along the way toward a more fulfilled life. I seek to empower adults who struggle with trauma/PTSD, grief, at-risk behaviors, self-esteem, relationship and attachment difficulties, the codependency-narcissism bond, and life transitions.
(845) 671-5029 View (845) 671-5029
Photo of Ian Laidlaw - Engage Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Engage Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Our team of clinicians has been hand-picked for their expertise and diverse areas of experience. Children or adults, individuals or couples, LGBTQ+, English or Spanish (or Japanese or Hungarian!), EMDR or psychodynamic, CBT or body-centered work. ​Whatever you are looking for, we have someone who can help.
Our team of clinicians has been hand-picked for their expertise and diverse areas of experience. Children or adults, individuals or couples, LGBTQ+, English or Spanish (or Japanese or Hungarian!), EMDR or psychodynamic, CBT or body-centered work. ​Whatever you are looking for, we have someone who can help.
(845) 498-1723 View (845) 498-1723
Photo of Santiago Agudelo Velez, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Santiago Agudelo Velez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
I bring a supportive, strong, and collaborative space for those who are looking to work on themselves, gain clarity, and resolve a variety of issues that may hold a person back from their potential. I use an eclectic approach that provides a personalized therapy experience that meets your needs. In addition I specialize in working with teens, adults, families, couples and veterans.
I bring a supportive, strong, and collaborative space for those who are looking to work on themselves, gain clarity, and resolve a variety of issues that may hold a person back from their potential. I use an eclectic approach that provides a personalized therapy experience that meets your needs. In addition I specialize in working with teens, adults, families, couples and veterans.
(845) 280-4801 View (845) 280-4801
Photo of Carl Tulevech, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carl Tulevech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
100% sliding scale - having trouble finding affordable counseling? Negotiate a fee you can afford. I specialize in navigating emotional and relationship challenges on the path to recovery from alcohol and substance abuse. I also assist men with anger management issues and guide individuals living with depression, anxiety, and panic disorders to pursue their professional, personal, and relational aspirations. I provide couples counseling to help partners navigate differences and disagreements. As a seasoned professional I offer a welcoming, secure, and confidential space to unravel past and present struggles hindering healthy growth.
100% sliding scale - having trouble finding affordable counseling? Negotiate a fee you can afford. I specialize in navigating emotional and relationship challenges on the path to recovery from alcohol and substance abuse. I also assist men with anger management issues and guide individuals living with depression, anxiety, and panic disorders to pursue their professional, personal, and relational aspirations. I provide couples counseling to help partners navigate differences and disagreements. As a seasoned professional I offer a welcoming, secure, and confidential space to unravel past and present struggles hindering healthy growth.
(845) 299-8276 View (845) 299-8276
Jennifer Kreider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Jenn Kreider is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with four years of experience. She has a Masters of Social Work from Ramapo College. Jenn believes in holistic healing that takes into consideration the whole person: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. She feels that therapy is a pathway for growth and healing and an opportunity for the client to explore their own thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. In her spare time, Jenn enjoys anything outdoors, like hiking, going to the beach, and skiing.
Jenn Kreider is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with four years of experience. She has a Masters of Social Work from Ramapo College. Jenn believes in holistic healing that takes into consideration the whole person: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. She feels that therapy is a pathway for growth and healing and an opportunity for the client to explore their own thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. In her spare time, Jenn enjoys anything outdoors, like hiking, going to the beach, and skiing.
(914) 415-7395 View (914) 415-7395
Photo of Stella A. Farrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stella A. Farrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
When feeling overwhelmed by life events or difficult relationships, guided exploration with a trusted therapist can help us through challenging times. Allow me to support you as you face these obstacles and work toward fulfillment and acceptance.
When feeling overwhelmed by life events or difficult relationships, guided exploration with a trusted therapist can help us through challenging times. Allow me to support you as you face these obstacles and work toward fulfillment and acceptance.
(845) 671-3320 View (845) 671-3320
Photo of Starlee N Qualter, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starlee N Qualter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
I am a therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. My approach is collaborative as therapy is a unique relationship. We begin with identifying where you are now while focusing on where you want to be. I use many different techniques in discovering the most effective path for you. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is very effective with issues such as anxiety and depression, while using an attachment-based lens can improve low self-esteem and relationship issues. If you are looking for an interactive therapist and are ready and willing to do the work, I will help you along your journey!
I am a therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. My approach is collaborative as therapy is a unique relationship. We begin with identifying where you are now while focusing on where you want to be. I use many different techniques in discovering the most effective path for you. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is very effective with issues such as anxiety and depression, while using an attachment-based lens can improve low self-esteem and relationship issues. If you are looking for an interactive therapist and are ready and willing to do the work, I will help you along your journey!
(845) 684-4291 View (845) 684-4291
Photo of Bonnie LaBar, LMHC, Counselor
Bonnie LaBar
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Bonnie LaBar is a Licensed Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2016. She earned her Master's of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Long Island University, Hudson, and her Bachelor's of Social Work at Ramapo College, in New Jersey. Bonnie can assist a client with her clinical skills, her empathic, person-centered approach, meeting each unique individual need, as well as meeting individuals where they are at on their journey, to accomplish their goals. She is comfortable working with any age group on their journey. Bonnie will support you through this process of change and growth.
Bonnie LaBar is a Licensed Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2016. She earned her Master's of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Long Island University, Hudson, and her Bachelor's of Social Work at Ramapo College, in New Jersey. Bonnie can assist a client with her clinical skills, her empathic, person-centered approach, meeting each unique individual need, as well as meeting individuals where they are at on their journey, to accomplish their goals. She is comfortable working with any age group on their journey. Bonnie will support you through this process of change and growth.
(914) 335-3515 View (914) 335-3515
1

See more therapy options for West Nyack

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Nyack, NY

70+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in West Nyack, NY who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
96% Depression
85% Trauma and PTSD
76% Relationship Issues
72% Grief
65% Self Esteem
57% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in West Nyack, NY see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Nyack?

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.