Therapists in Erie, PA
![Photo of Nea Motzer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38565e75-3c0b-45ac-aed7-409ea6eee6df/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a creative soul that believes in utilizing various treatment modalities that increase the Mind, Body, Spirit connection and cultivate self-acceptance. I am a native to the Erie community providing mental health support since 2003 and versed in treating a wide range of mental health issues.
I am a creative soul that believes in utilizing various treatment modalities that increase the Mind, Body, Spirit connection and cultivate self-acceptance. I am a native to the Erie community providing mental health support since 2003 and versed in treating a wide range of mental health issues.
![Photo of Lois Ann Pearo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2bea5c4-687f-49a6-be12-1afda8083a37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lois Ann Pearo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16506 (Online Only)
I am here to help my clients gain a new perspective, heal from past traumatic experiences, grow and learn new coping strategies. If you would like someone to listen, offer guidance, new communication techniques, relaxation breathing, couples or marriage therapy, please schedule a session with me. Having a third party, professional, someone not emotionally connected to the situation, is a real game changer.
I am here to help my clients gain a new perspective, heal from past traumatic experiences, grow and learn new coping strategies. If you would like someone to listen, offer guidance, new communication techniques, relaxation breathing, couples or marriage therapy, please schedule a session with me. Having a third party, professional, someone not emotionally connected to the situation, is a real game changer.
![Photo of Ryan Robert Wood, LCSW, LICDC , ICADC, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d69d43d7-fc31-429c-9e59-28031b3c522d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Robert Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICDC , ICADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16508
Not accepting new clients
As a co-owner of Roots Counseling and Wellness, LLC, my mission is to provide clients with the necessary skills and support on their pathway to wellness. Whether you are struggling with a substance use disorder, gambling addiction, anxiety, trauma, or other life stressors, navigating the recovery process can be overwhelming and scary. My goal is to help clients develop the skills to improve their lives in a safe, supportive, and client-centered environment.
As a co-owner of Roots Counseling and Wellness, LLC, my mission is to provide clients with the necessary skills and support on their pathway to wellness. Whether you are struggling with a substance use disorder, gambling addiction, anxiety, trauma, or other life stressors, navigating the recovery process can be overwhelming and scary. My goal is to help clients develop the skills to improve their lives in a safe, supportive, and client-centered environment.
![Photo of Olivia Ray Doverspike, LAPC, NCC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8bf1deb-2349-41d9-8f08-daf9037117f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients with Metamorphosis Counseling for immediate openings! Despite how different the world is for you, it keeps turning. Others don’t slow down to understand that the things that are normal for them are different for you. You are tired of wearing a mask all the time and may wear it so often that you aren’t quite sure who you really are. You may feel like the smallest changes can make the world feel like it’s upside down, or maybe certain textures make your skin crawl. And people-ing, it might be really, really hard. You are tired of ship-sized emotions and feeling two steps behind others in conversation.
Now accepting new clients with Metamorphosis Counseling for immediate openings! Despite how different the world is for you, it keeps turning. Others don’t slow down to understand that the things that are normal for them are different for you. You are tired of wearing a mask all the time and may wear it so often that you aren’t quite sure who you really are. You may feel like the smallest changes can make the world feel like it’s upside down, or maybe certain textures make your skin crawl. And people-ing, it might be really, really hard. You are tired of ship-sized emotions and feeling two steps behind others in conversation.
![Photo of Brianne Orloff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a84ec809-c7ee-4349-af35-b97fd4185534/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brianne Orloff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16509
Not accepting new clients
I hold licensure as a Professional Counselor to provide individual and family sessions for children, adolescents, and adults. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered as my primary modalities during treatment. CBT focuses on learning the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors/reactions. Person-Centered provides an encouraging and validating aura to help you reflect on your own strengths and self-worth. These approaches are mixed with humor and light therapeutic challenging to help hold accountability and follow through, which are key to progress. Take that next step and let's get started!
I hold licensure as a Professional Counselor to provide individual and family sessions for children, adolescents, and adults. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered as my primary modalities during treatment. CBT focuses on learning the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors/reactions. Person-Centered provides an encouraging and validating aura to help you reflect on your own strengths and self-worth. These approaches are mixed with humor and light therapeutic challenging to help hold accountability and follow through, which are key to progress. Take that next step and let's get started!
![Photo of Matthew Durney, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53cf1e2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
*Accepting New Clients* *Sunday Availability* I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I specialize in working with both children and adults in a trauma-informed perspective. I offer individual, couples, or family counseling working on a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, PTSD, life transitions, college counseling and career counseling, problems at work, self-harming behavior, sexual abuse and sexual issues, and spirituality concerns.
*Accepting New Clients* *Sunday Availability* I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I specialize in working with both children and adults in a trauma-informed perspective. I offer individual, couples, or family counseling working on a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, PTSD, life transitions, college counseling and career counseling, problems at work, self-harming behavior, sexual abuse and sexual issues, and spirituality concerns.
![Photo of Kaden Anantarow, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb89e9f0-9c69-4d66-90eb-8376aa6f6e96/3/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients. Do you want to make a change in your life? Have you wanted to talk about something but find it difficult to? Counseling can help. People can do hard things and I want to help them learn the tools necessary for the job. My practice is a place to feel safe and encouraged to be your best self. Together, we can navigate what you’re experiencing. Individuals and couples welcome! Services offered Tuesday through Friday with morning, afternoon, and evening availability to fit your needs.
Now accepting new clients. Do you want to make a change in your life? Have you wanted to talk about something but find it difficult to? Counseling can help. People can do hard things and I want to help them learn the tools necessary for the job. My practice is a place to feel safe and encouraged to be your best self. Together, we can navigate what you’re experiencing. Individuals and couples welcome! Services offered Tuesday through Friday with morning, afternoon, and evening availability to fit your needs.
![Photo of Andrew K. Kohl, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecf1090a-8860-4076-8dc1-263198232a39/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a National Certified Counselor and State Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with over 5 years of professional counseling experience as well as 10+ years of extensive experience working with children & adolescents, having worked with a number of local agencies throughout my professional career. I specialize in working with teenagers, men, women & couples. If you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, work-life balance, family/marital issues, or other life challenges, I am confident that together, we can work on shaping your successful future.
I am a National Certified Counselor and State Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with over 5 years of professional counseling experience as well as 10+ years of extensive experience working with children & adolescents, having worked with a number of local agencies throughout my professional career. I specialize in working with teenagers, men, women & couples. If you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, work-life balance, family/marital issues, or other life challenges, I am confident that together, we can work on shaping your successful future.
![Photo of Shelby Neal, LPC, ATR, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abc59550-842d-4a24-9bc3-577662232df1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, CAADC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16506
Not accepting new clients
Reclaiming one's self requires a delicate alchemy; an internal freedom, balance, and transformation. I work closely with you to build genuine trust and partnership. I am not here to fix you as you are not broken, nor a burden. We all have wounded and protective parts within us which keep us stuck in the same unhelpful cycles of suffering. I welcome and accept every version of you in my safe non-judgmental space. Together, we can travel through unhelpful patterns and embrace your calm, curious, confident core self to better pilot your own life.
Reclaiming one's self requires a delicate alchemy; an internal freedom, balance, and transformation. I work closely with you to build genuine trust and partnership. I am not here to fix you as you are not broken, nor a burden. We all have wounded and protective parts within us which keep us stuck in the same unhelpful cycles of suffering. I welcome and accept every version of you in my safe non-judgmental space. Together, we can travel through unhelpful patterns and embrace your calm, curious, confident core self to better pilot your own life.
![Photo of Sherese Jefferson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ece25c1-eeb4-4662-a5ac-3170059e94e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherese Jefferson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16501 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm so glad you found me! My name is Sherese and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified School Counselor in the state of PA. I have a heart for counseling children, teens, and young adults. I have extensive experience working with these populations in a variety of capacities as a school counselor, mentor, former youth pastor, and now therapist. I enjoy taking a holistic and creative approach in my counseling space.
Hello! I'm so glad you found me! My name is Sherese and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified School Counselor in the state of PA. I have a heart for counseling children, teens, and young adults. I have extensive experience working with these populations in a variety of capacities as a school counselor, mentor, former youth pastor, and now therapist. I enjoy taking a holistic and creative approach in my counseling space.
![Photo of Erin McCall, LPC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/283433c4-b89e-469f-b33c-48fafbf20cf6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, I am so glad you are here. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, specializing in working with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of mental health concerns. My specialties include anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, trauma, grief and loss, family/relationship difficulties, and individuals impacted by chronic illness. I work with clients using a trauma-focused lens and use modalities of CBT and DBT to meet their goals.
Welcome, I am so glad you are here. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, specializing in working with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of mental health concerns. My specialties include anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, trauma, grief and loss, family/relationship difficulties, and individuals impacted by chronic illness. I work with clients using a trauma-focused lens and use modalities of CBT and DBT to meet their goals.
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![Photo of Alice Link, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fa8605c-4c42-4a7f-93be-06ba5f7532d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alice Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16506 (Online Only)
I provide counseling for individuals or couples seeking to address concerns related to anxiety, sexual health, parenting, and/or relationships. I offer a comfortable and relaxed approach in sessions to facilitate honest interaction with my clients. The therapy I provide is evidence-based, relational, sex-positive, and humanistic in nature.
I provide counseling for individuals or couples seeking to address concerns related to anxiety, sexual health, parenting, and/or relationships. I offer a comfortable and relaxed approach in sessions to facilitate honest interaction with my clients. The therapy I provide is evidence-based, relational, sex-positive, and humanistic in nature.
![Photo of Merissa Lindsay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c63554f5-e7f8-4301-b9cd-927d5ccff488/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 11 years of professional therapy experience. However, I have been working in the social work field for 17 consecutive years. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental illness via my work in inpatient hospitals, group homes, case management, behavioral health insurance management, elementary, middle and high school settings. I have spent the past 11 years of my career providing counseling services to women and children in an Outpatient Therapy setting.
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 11 years of professional therapy experience. However, I have been working in the social work field for 17 consecutive years. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental illness via my work in inpatient hospitals, group homes, case management, behavioral health insurance management, elementary, middle and high school settings. I have spent the past 11 years of my career providing counseling services to women and children in an Outpatient Therapy setting.
![Photo of Autumn McLellan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b5a230-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn McLellan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16509
Not accepting new clients
I will not be taking on new clients at this time. Sorry for any inconvenience. Please check back soon. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is important to promote change. Change happens in an accepting and nonjudgmental environment. I have a Master's Degree in Community Counseling and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I work with individuals with depression, anxiety, relational issues, mood issues, life changes, addiction, grief and trauma concerns. My approaches are strength based and gleaned from a reality and solution focus as well as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral approaches.
I will not be taking on new clients at this time. Sorry for any inconvenience. Please check back soon. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is important to promote change. Change happens in an accepting and nonjudgmental environment. I have a Master's Degree in Community Counseling and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I work with individuals with depression, anxiety, relational issues, mood issues, life changes, addiction, grief and trauma concerns. My approaches are strength based and gleaned from a reality and solution focus as well as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral approaches.
![Photo of Penelope Mechley-Porter - Thrive Therapy Space, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526cda3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. We have over 15 therapists at Thrive Therapy Space, where we've created a safe, warm, and welcoming environment just for you. We make it clear on our website which therapists currently have openings! See our therapists with openings at: www.thrivetherapyspace.com/members/
Hi. We have over 15 therapists at Thrive Therapy Space, where we've created a safe, warm, and welcoming environment just for you. We make it clear on our website which therapists currently have openings! See our therapists with openings at: www.thrivetherapyspace.com/members/
![Photo of Colby Bre-Anne Mitchell-El, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a05107d5-7c70-4039-b768-9bcfa7c08aa1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colby Bre-Anne Mitchell-El
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16506
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice I treat anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, work/job related stress, grief and loss, women’s issues, and assists others with learning how to establish life balance. I am passionate about being able to support others on this journey of life, and assist them in becoming the best version of themselves.
In my practice I treat anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, work/job related stress, grief and loss, women’s issues, and assists others with learning how to establish life balance. I am passionate about being able to support others on this journey of life, and assist them in becoming the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Maggi Kessler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b99428-7b91-42aa-98bc-928454930d7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are an adult, and struggling with anxiety or depression, the first step is reaching out for support. Therapy is about identifying the behaviors that are not helping us, and learning to make small changes that help to create happiness and content.
If you are an adult, and struggling with anxiety or depression, the first step is reaching out for support. Therapy is about identifying the behaviors that are not helping us, and learning to make small changes that help to create happiness and content.
![Photo of Melissa Bargar, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2c106ac-77bb-4cf3-9225-3320297c478d/2/320x400.jpeg)
(Accepting clients with daytime availability) Hello! My name is Melissa and I am a National Certified Counselor and LPC. I have 13 years of experience in the mental health field with 8 of those years providing outpatient therapy at a local agency serving primarily children, adolescents, and their families. I enjoy working primarily with adolescents (14+) and adults dealing with life stressors, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and emotional regulation issues. Allow me to help you on your journey as you build upon your strengths and learn skills to effectively manage your mental well being.
(Accepting clients with daytime availability) Hello! My name is Melissa and I am a National Certified Counselor and LPC. I have 13 years of experience in the mental health field with 8 of those years providing outpatient therapy at a local agency serving primarily children, adolescents, and their families. I enjoy working primarily with adolescents (14+) and adults dealing with life stressors, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and emotional regulation issues. Allow me to help you on your journey as you build upon your strengths and learn skills to effectively manage your mental well being.
![Photo of Shana Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cde1a99-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcoming new clients, I provide mental health therapy, specializing in working with children and teens, along with their family members, as well as couples, young adults and adults. Areas of specialty include those struggling with adjustment issues, anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, anger, self & body image issues, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, cutting/self harm, peer concerns and women's issues, just to name a few. I believe that the only way to get past our problems is to go through them, and I empower others to partake on this difficult, yet rewarding journey!
Welcoming new clients, I provide mental health therapy, specializing in working with children and teens, along with their family members, as well as couples, young adults and adults. Areas of specialty include those struggling with adjustment issues, anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, anger, self & body image issues, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, cutting/self harm, peer concerns and women's issues, just to name a few. I believe that the only way to get past our problems is to go through them, and I empower others to partake on this difficult, yet rewarding journey!
![Photo of Lisa Marshall, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f76f33f-c55f-4597-bb81-c559b2436e17/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all have our own unique story. As a therapist my authentic approach helps to provide clients with a genuine connection in a meaningful way. I have over 20 years experience working in a variety of settings with men, women, children, and families. Whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, dealing with grief and loss, trauma, struggling with a substance use disorder or you may be overwhelmed with facing some of life challenges and day to day stressors, It’s my belief that we can all benefit from therapy for different reasons at different times in our lives.
We all have our own unique story. As a therapist my authentic approach helps to provide clients with a genuine connection in a meaningful way. I have over 20 years experience working in a variety of settings with men, women, children, and families. Whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, dealing with grief and loss, trauma, struggling with a substance use disorder or you may be overwhelmed with facing some of life challenges and day to day stressors, It’s my belief that we can all benefit from therapy for different reasons at different times in our lives.
See more therapy options for Erie
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Erie, PA
300+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Erie, PA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
74% | Self Esteem |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Coping Skills |
61% | Relationship Issues |
57% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Optum |
84% | Highmark |
80% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Erie, PA see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Erie?
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
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.
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.
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.