Therapists in Independence, OH

Photo of Desiree Paschal, LPCC
Desiree Paschal
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Desiree Paschal is a licensed professional clinical counselor, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Desiree believes in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy approaches. The goals of these therapies is to make a positive change in life. Both therapies center on learning and practicing skills to utilize on the journey toward mental wellness. Desiree's areas of focus includes bipolar disorder, depression, and chronic illness. In her spare time, Desiree's hobbies are reading and playing strategic board games.
Desiree Paschal is a licensed professional clinical counselor, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Desiree believes in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy approaches. The goals of these therapies is to make a positive change in life. Both therapies center on learning and practicing skills to utilize on the journey toward mental wellness. Desiree's areas of focus includes bipolar disorder, depression, and chronic illness. In her spare time, Desiree's hobbies are reading and playing strategic board games.
(216) 284-4487 View (216) 284-4487
Photo of Benita K. Chernyk, PhD, CEAP, LICDCCS, Psychologist
Benita K. Chernyk
Psychologist, PhD, CEAP, LICDCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
As a seasoned clinical psychologist, I treat adults with depression, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, ADHD, sexuality/gender issues, substance use and other problems. I have trained in multiple evidence-based treatment methods and am practical and direct. I enjoy working with couples and appreciate diversity. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but have lived and worked in Ohio for over thirty years. I am collaborative, prefer to avoid psycho-babble and have a reputation for being able to ask tough questions and confront difficult issues.
As a seasoned clinical psychologist, I treat adults with depression, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, ADHD, sexuality/gender issues, substance use and other problems. I have trained in multiple evidence-based treatment methods and am practical and direct. I enjoy working with couples and appreciate diversity. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but have lived and worked in Ohio for over thirty years. I am collaborative, prefer to avoid psycho-babble and have a reputation for being able to ask tough questions and confront difficult issues.
(216) 350-0534 View (216) 350-0534
Photo of Jane Martinez, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
(216) 868-7207 View (216) 868-7207
Photo of Aaron Knapp, CIT, Counselor
Aaron Knapp
Counselor, CIT
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
I believe in providing a space where clients feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. The foundation of our work together is a strong therapeutic relationship built on empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I encourage active participation from clients in goal setting and treatment planning; I am here as a guide on your journey. I also believe in tailoring therapy to the individual. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and have a special interest in working with adolescents, young adults, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe in providing a space where clients feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. The foundation of our work together is a strong therapeutic relationship built on empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I encourage active participation from clients in goal setting and treatment planning; I am here as a guide on your journey. I also believe in tailoring therapy to the individual. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and have a special interest in working with adolescents, young adults, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(216) 282-3733 View (216) 282-3733
Photo of Lacey Caparanis, LPCC, Counselor
Lacey Caparanis
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Lacey Caparanis holds a master's degree in Counselor Education from The Ohio State University and a bachelor's from Marietta College. She has spent her career working mainly with children, adolescents, and families in school-based settings. Lacey has also worked at Kent State University as a career advisor and has experience working with those recovering from alcoholism and addiction in a residential setting. She provides individual sessions and family sessions at Lifestance. She is a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and serves many clients from this group, as well as herself identifying as a part of the queer community.
Lacey Caparanis holds a master's degree in Counselor Education from The Ohio State University and a bachelor's from Marietta College. She has spent her career working mainly with children, adolescents, and families in school-based settings. Lacey has also worked at Kent State University as a career advisor and has experience working with those recovering from alcoholism and addiction in a residential setting. She provides individual sessions and family sessions at Lifestance. She is a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and serves many clients from this group, as well as herself identifying as a part of the queer community.
(216) 438-9137 View (216) 438-9137
Photo of Kaitlyn McCarthy, PsyD, Psychologist
Kaitlyn McCarthy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Kaitlyn McCarthy is a licensed clinical psychologist who graduated with her doctorate from Wright State University. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at the University of Notre Dame and her post-doctoral fellowship at Oberlin College. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and philosophy from Miami University. Throughout her training and career, she has worked in a variety of settings including community mental health centers, college counseling centers, and long-term care facilities.
Kaitlyn McCarthy is a licensed clinical psychologist who graduated with her doctorate from Wright State University. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at the University of Notre Dame and her post-doctoral fellowship at Oberlin College. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and philosophy from Miami University. Throughout her training and career, she has worked in a variety of settings including community mental health centers, college counseling centers, and long-term care facilities.
(216) 284-6498 View (216) 284-6498
Photo of Verntonn Smith, LPCC
Verntonn Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
As a therapist, I work with diverse clients seeking support for various mental health challenges. An ideal client for therapy may be someone struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or life transitions. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to cope with their emotions and experiences. These clients often seek a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and gain insight into their behaviors and relationships. Goals may include improving self-esteem, enhancing communication skills, building resilience, and finding greater fulfillment and meaning in their lives.
As a therapist, I work with diverse clients seeking support for various mental health challenges. An ideal client for therapy may be someone struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or life transitions. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to cope with their emotions and experiences. These clients often seek a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and gain insight into their behaviors and relationships. Goals may include improving self-esteem, enhancing communication skills, building resilience, and finding greater fulfillment and meaning in their lives.
(216) 282-3733 View (216) 282-3733
Photo of Bridget Richard - Lamplight Online Counseling Services , LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lamplight Online Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131  (Online Only)
*Now Scheduling Daytime/Weekend/Evening Appointments* for anyone in the State of Ohio. Are you struggling with life’s challenges? With online therapy help is available anytime, from anywhere. Lamplight makes professional therapy accessible, affordable, and convenient. No matter where you are, or what device you use, a board certified masters level therapist who lives nearby and understands life's challenges is ready to start helping to you today.
*Now Scheduling Daytime/Weekend/Evening Appointments* for anyone in the State of Ohio. Are you struggling with life’s challenges? With online therapy help is available anytime, from anywhere. Lamplight makes professional therapy accessible, affordable, and convenient. No matter where you are, or what device you use, a board certified masters level therapist who lives nearby and understands life's challenges is ready to start helping to you today.
(216) 859-4665 View (216) 859-4665
Photo of Eric L. King Sr., MA, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Eric L. King Sr.
Counselor, MA, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
I help angry, frustrated and struggling young and adult men grappling with life's challenges. Through an empathetic therapeutic relationship, I help them confront societal pressures, family expectations, and personal struggles. By fostering a safe space for exploration, I guide them in rewriting their narratives, embracing vulnerability, and discovering their true selves.
I help angry, frustrated and struggling young and adult men grappling with life's challenges. Through an empathetic therapeutic relationship, I help them confront societal pressures, family expectations, and personal struggles. By fostering a safe space for exploration, I guide them in rewriting their narratives, embracing vulnerability, and discovering their true selves.
(216) 208-3669 View (216) 208-3669
Photo of Qwentella C Smith, M Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Qwentella C Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
Maya Angelou captured the experience of life precisely when she said, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better". If you're visiting this site, you're likely hoping to find someone who can help you feel, think and/or do better in some way. When people are managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, difficult relationships, chronic pain, grief or various other challenging life circumstances it can be hard to think, feel or do better.
Maya Angelou captured the experience of life precisely when she said, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better". If you're visiting this site, you're likely hoping to find someone who can help you feel, think and/or do better in some way. When people are managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, difficult relationships, chronic pain, grief or various other challenging life circumstances it can be hard to think, feel or do better.
(216) 238-3642 View (216) 238-3642
Photo of Danielle Holman, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Holman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
*Accepting New Clients!* Everyone wants to be a better version of themselves at some point in life. Life throws us curves and it is how we navigate them is what can help us to grow as individuals. I enjoy working with adults and young adults 18+ who want to work on their mental health. I have had the privilege of working with the elderly population in Alzheimer's and dementia care in various hospital systems. I also enjoy working with adults that are seeking a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and no judgment.
*Accepting New Clients!* Everyone wants to be a better version of themselves at some point in life. Life throws us curves and it is how we navigate them is what can help us to grow as individuals. I enjoy working with adults and young adults 18+ who want to work on their mental health. I have had the privilege of working with the elderly population in Alzheimer's and dementia care in various hospital systems. I also enjoy working with adults that are seeking a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and no judgment.
(216) 369-6254 View (216) 369-6254
Photo of Jerilyn D Rogers, MA, LPC-CR, LICDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerilyn D Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-CR, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
As a therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I have spent more than 15 years assisting individuals with overcoming life challenges. My purpose is to inspire and support changes that lead to fulfillment and self-empowerment. Together we will work on emotional and mental health issues for an improved sense of well‐being, to alleviate feelings of distress and to resolve crises.
As a therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I have spent more than 15 years assisting individuals with overcoming life challenges. My purpose is to inspire and support changes that lead to fulfillment and self-empowerment. Together we will work on emotional and mental health issues for an improved sense of well‐being, to alleviate feelings of distress and to resolve crises.
(216) 446-6989 View (216) 446-6989
Photo of Kelly Schudel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Schudel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Kelly Schudel is a licensed professional counselor. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Kent State University and her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Cleveland State University. She has experience working with adolescents and young adults in school-based and university settings. She has a specialized interest in working with young adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. Her treatment plans often utilize client centered and cognitive behavioral therapy-based interventions.
Kelly Schudel is a licensed professional counselor. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Kent State University and her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Cleveland State University. She has experience working with adolescents and young adults in school-based and university settings. She has a specialized interest in working with young adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. Her treatment plans often utilize client centered and cognitive behavioral therapy-based interventions.
(216) 677-3301 View (216) 677-3301
Photo of Jennifer Seelie, MSN,  PMHNP
Jennifer Seelie
MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Jenny Seelie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with a 4.0, Magna Cum Laude. Jenny helps clients through diagnosing, medication management, and psychotherapy. She specializes in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys fishing year-round, spending time with her kids, and anything outdoors.
Jenny Seelie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with a 4.0, Magna Cum Laude. Jenny helps clients through diagnosing, medication management, and psychotherapy. She specializes in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys fishing year-round, spending time with her kids, and anything outdoors.
(216) 284-9584 View (216) 284-9584
Photo of Mario Bugnone, MSSA, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mario Bugnone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131  (Online Only)
Do you want to finally feel understood or heard? What if your relationship's in your life could go back to being enjoyable? Is it time to take your life back from the trauma that has crippled you for far too long? Sometimes you just need help seeing the world through a new pair of glasses. Whether it be debilitating depression, anxiety, or some form of trauma there is hope and you are not alone. I am currently online only.
Do you want to finally feel understood or heard? What if your relationship's in your life could go back to being enjoyable? Is it time to take your life back from the trauma that has crippled you for far too long? Sometimes you just need help seeing the world through a new pair of glasses. Whether it be debilitating depression, anxiety, or some form of trauma there is hope and you are not alone. I am currently online only.
(216) 279-9057 View (216) 279-9057
Photo of Paul Sgondea, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Sgondea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
No one sees the real you. You put on a mask, to the outside world things seem ok with you. But when you slow down from a busy day or find yourself alone without any distractions, your mind starts racing and your mood shifts. Maybe you feel like you lost part of yourself at some point, or maybe you never really knew yourself to begin with. Distractions like alcohol/other substances, unhealthy relationships, overworking, or other short-term fixes can momentarily fill the void, but it does not last. If this hits close to home, I can help you find lasting solutions, not quick fixes.
No one sees the real you. You put on a mask, to the outside world things seem ok with you. But when you slow down from a busy day or find yourself alone without any distractions, your mind starts racing and your mood shifts. Maybe you feel like you lost part of yourself at some point, or maybe you never really knew yourself to begin with. Distractions like alcohol/other substances, unhealthy relationships, overworking, or other short-term fixes can momentarily fill the void, but it does not last. If this hits close to home, I can help you find lasting solutions, not quick fixes.
(216) 446-7472 View (216) 446-7472
Photo of Dorian Mahulawde, LPCC-S
Dorian Mahulawde
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
Are you feeling burnt out from the stress of life? Do you find it hard to be mentally present for your loved ones? Do you ever question your thought patterns? I specialize in helping people find or regain their life direction. I work with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, suicidal/homicidal thoughts, and other mental health issues. I have experience helping teenagers, young adults, adult men, and women - both single and married - as well as couples."
Are you feeling burnt out from the stress of life? Do you find it hard to be mentally present for your loved ones? Do you ever question your thought patterns? I specialize in helping people find or regain their life direction. I work with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, suicidal/homicidal thoughts, and other mental health issues. I have experience helping teenagers, young adults, adult men, and women - both single and married - as well as couples."
(216) 238-2169 x1002 View (216) 238-2169 x1002
Photo of Jena Iacco, LPCC-S, Counselor
Jena Iacco
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Jena Iacco is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology from Notre Dame College. Jena is comfortably able to orient clients to the counseling process and meet them where they are at in their journey. She enjoys helping clients identify their goals and develop a realistic plan to achieve them. Jena enjoys helping clients realize their full potential by increasing their selfesteem and confidence. Being a client's advocate is her favorite part of being a therapist.
Jena Iacco is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology from Notre Dame College. Jena is comfortably able to orient clients to the counseling process and meet them where they are at in their journey. She enjoys helping clients identify their goals and develop a realistic plan to achieve them. Jena enjoys helping clients realize their full potential by increasing their selfesteem and confidence. Being a client's advocate is her favorite part of being a therapist.
(216) 208-4477 View (216) 208-4477
Photo of Sidney Bash, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sidney Bash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
Not accepting new clients
Sidney believes in creating a safe space for clients to reflect, work on self-acceptance, and build a DBT skillset that will help them navigate their emotions and interpersonal relationships more effectively. Sidney has curated these skills from her time specializing in treating high school and college aged clients with suicidal ideation. She understands that days can feel like a marathon filled with feelings of shame and untrue, negative stories we tell ourselves. Sidney enjoys empowering her clients to retell these stories and find meaning, truth, and hope within them to pave the way for a more authentic and fulfilling future.
Sidney believes in creating a safe space for clients to reflect, work on self-acceptance, and build a DBT skillset that will help them navigate their emotions and interpersonal relationships more effectively. Sidney has curated these skills from her time specializing in treating high school and college aged clients with suicidal ideation. She understands that days can feel like a marathon filled with feelings of shame and untrue, negative stories we tell ourselves. Sidney enjoys empowering her clients to retell these stories and find meaning, truth, and hope within them to pave the way for a more authentic and fulfilling future.
(216) 369-6706 View (216) 369-6706
Photo of Dana Y. Matthews, PhD, LPCC-S, LPSC, NCC, Counselor
Dana Y. Matthews
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, LPSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to Matthews Counseling & Consulting! Thank you for viewing my profile. I strive to provide quality counseling care to adolescents and adults exhibiting diverse mental health issues and school related issues.
Welcome to Matthews Counseling & Consulting! Thank you for viewing my profile. I strive to provide quality counseling care to adolescents and adults exhibiting diverse mental health issues and school related issues.
(440) 641-2075 View (440) 641-2075

See more therapy options for Independence

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Independence, OH

50+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Independence, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
81% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills
63% Relationship Issues
60% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
90% Medical Mutual
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Independence, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Independence?

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.