Therapists in East Orleans, MA

Photo of Gail E McMeekin, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail E McMeekin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Orleans, MA 02643
I am known as the Visionary Passionate Mentor/Coach for Creative Entrepreneurs and Professionals. I have written six books on women, creativity, stress, and success, but I also enjoy working with men. We are all creative, and our fascinations help us to become whole, prosperous, and create an ideal life. As a trained Executive Creative Career Coach, I can help you to overcome the obstacles to your success, reduce stress, and achieve your future personal, professional, and creative goals. I am warm, supportive, an excellent brainstormer and action-oriented. I also do career assessment testing and Life Purpose analysis.
I am known as the Visionary Passionate Mentor/Coach for Creative Entrepreneurs and Professionals. I have written six books on women, creativity, stress, and success, but I also enjoy working with men. We are all creative, and our fascinations help us to become whole, prosperous, and create an ideal life. As a trained Executive Creative Career Coach, I can help you to overcome the obstacles to your success, reduce stress, and achieve your future personal, professional, and creative goals. I am warm, supportive, an excellent brainstormer and action-oriented. I also do career assessment testing and Life Purpose analysis.
(617) 997-0577 View (617) 997-0577

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alison J Hyder, LICSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison J Hyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
I believe that everyone is in the process of change. We have worked to become whe are now, and we will continue to grow into ourselves. That is why I do not judge people, but instead help clients to accept and appreciate their struggles as a foundation for healing. Very little shocks or surprises me, so I am particularly well-suited to issues of sexuality and personal expression and associated issues of shame and fear. I also have an affinity for those with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, grief, and couples' issues. My primary method is Cognitive-Behavioral talk therapy.
I believe that everyone is in the process of change. We have worked to become whe are now, and we will continue to grow into ourselves. That is why I do not judge people, but instead help clients to accept and appreciate their struggles as a foundation for healing. Very little shocks or surprises me, so I am particularly well-suited to issues of sexuality and personal expression and associated issues of shame and fear. I also have an affinity for those with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, grief, and couples' issues. My primary method is Cognitive-Behavioral talk therapy.
(508) 456-8182 View (508) 456-8182
Photo of Rebecca Alves, LICSW, LADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Alves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADCI
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself struggling with day-to-day stress, anxiety or work-related burn out? Have you experienced trauma that is interfering with your daily functioning? Through a mindful and solution focused approach, you can reduce stress and work towards improving the quality of your life. I offer ACT, CBT and EMDR for the treatment of symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma and eating disorders. I have 20+ years of experience working in the mental health field with both individuals and families. Born and raised on Cape Cod, I continue to enjoy serving my community.
Do you find yourself struggling with day-to-day stress, anxiety or work-related burn out? Have you experienced trauma that is interfering with your daily functioning? Through a mindful and solution focused approach, you can reduce stress and work towards improving the quality of your life. I offer ACT, CBT and EMDR for the treatment of symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma and eating disorders. I have 20+ years of experience working in the mental health field with both individuals and families. Born and raised on Cape Cod, I continue to enjoy serving my community.
(508) 812-9463 View (508) 812-9463
Photo of Tracey Schear, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Schear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
I believe that we have everything within in us to heal and thrive. It takes courage to seek support when you are facing life challenges and I am here to accompany you on your journey. In my work with people, my goal is to help you connect to all your parts and understand that you have the capacity to heal past wounds, release old ways of being, and bring greater balance, harmony, and joy into your life.
I believe that we have everything within in us to heal and thrive. It takes courage to seek support when you are facing life challenges and I am here to accompany you on your journey. In my work with people, my goal is to help you connect to all your parts and understand that you have the capacity to heal past wounds, release old ways of being, and bring greater balance, harmony, and joy into your life.
(508) 452-2371 View (508) 452-2371
Photo of Aylin L Unel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aylin L Unel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orleans, MA 02653  (Online Only)
Telehealth only. We all go through difficult times in our lives, and I believe we all have our strengths when it comes to solving problems. If you are going through a tough time, feeling overwhelmed with new or ongoing challenges, feeling anxious, depressed and/or hopeless, I may be able to help you navigate through your struggles. As a client centered and culturally aware psychotherapist, I focus on helping you identify your strengths by finding the right treatment modalities for your problems. By working together, we can identify your goals in the direction you want and create positive changes in your life.
Telehealth only. We all go through difficult times in our lives, and I believe we all have our strengths when it comes to solving problems. If you are going through a tough time, feeling overwhelmed with new or ongoing challenges, feeling anxious, depressed and/or hopeless, I may be able to help you navigate through your struggles. As a client centered and culturally aware psychotherapist, I focus on helping you identify your strengths by finding the right treatment modalities for your problems. By working together, we can identify your goals in the direction you want and create positive changes in your life.
(774) 745-6560 View (774) 745-6560
Photo of Paul J Tausek - Paul J. Tausek, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul J. Tausek, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
I have enjoyed my private practice for over 50 years - full-time since 1979. Although I consider myself a generalist, I have concentrated working with individuals, couples, families, adult children of alcoholics, substance abuse, codependence, grieving, gay and lesbian, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence. As a member of the Association of Christian Counselors, I serve Christian clients. I accept most health insurances.
I have enjoyed my private practice for over 50 years - full-time since 1979. Although I consider myself a generalist, I have concentrated working with individuals, couples, families, adult children of alcoholics, substance abuse, codependence, grieving, gay and lesbian, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence. As a member of the Association of Christian Counselors, I serve Christian clients. I accept most health insurances.
(508) 315-6213 View (508) 315-6213
Photo of Dawn L White, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn L White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orleans, MA 02653
Welcome. Finding a therapist can be daunting and often we begin the process when already feeling overwhelmed or stuck. My approach with clients is individualized, collaborative, creative and compassion-oriented. My goal is to create a safe, trusted space that facilitates and empowers new insight and self-awareness.
Welcome. Finding a therapist can be daunting and often we begin the process when already feeling overwhelmed or stuck. My approach with clients is individualized, collaborative, creative and compassion-oriented. My goal is to create a safe, trusted space that facilitates and empowers new insight and self-awareness.
(508) 905-8102 View (508) 905-8102
Photo of Bonnie Jackman, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie Jackman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Not accepting new clients
I work with children, adolescents, and their families, and my approach is both flexible and eclectic. I often use Brief Intermittent Therapy. I find that it works best for people to come in for a defined brief period of time (such as 6-8 weeks) and focus on one specific area that needs attention; the time in therapy is more concentrated and effective. When the need arises, I welcome clients back for a "tune up."
I work with children, adolescents, and their families, and my approach is both flexible and eclectic. I often use Brief Intermittent Therapy. I find that it works best for people to come in for a defined brief period of time (such as 6-8 weeks) and focus on one specific area that needs attention; the time in therapy is more concentrated and effective. When the need arises, I welcome clients back for a "tune up."
(508) 257-7593 View (508) 257-7593
Photo of Kelly Kirkbride, LMHC, RN, LCMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Kelly Kirkbride
Counselor, LMHC, RN, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orleans, MA 02653
I am accepting new clients in Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont. I provide short-term and long-term individual therapy as well as group therapy. I use evidence-based skills teaching aimed at fast symptom reduction and building a lasting coping style. With a degree in nursing, I help people improve the relationship between their mental and physical health.
I am accepting new clients in Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont. I provide short-term and long-term individual therapy as well as group therapy. I use evidence-based skills teaching aimed at fast symptom reduction and building a lasting coping style. With a degree in nursing, I help people improve the relationship between their mental and physical health.
(508) 625-5901 View (508) 625-5901
Photo of David Kilgallon, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Kilgallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orleans, MA 02653
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with individuals who may find it difficult to manage their anger, leading to feelings of loneliness and irritability or encountering difficulty in relationships due to outbursts of anger. Many people come to me when the day-to-day demands placed on them become overwhelming, and they feel like they’ve lost their sense of balance, passion, energy or motivation. Others’ convey difficulty relaxing, sleeping, or being emotionally present in their personal lives. I am passionate about working with people who are feeling stressed out, whether it’s related to : school, work, relationships, parenting, or family.
I have experience working with individuals who may find it difficult to manage their anger, leading to feelings of loneliness and irritability or encountering difficulty in relationships due to outbursts of anger. Many people come to me when the day-to-day demands placed on them become overwhelming, and they feel like they’ve lost their sense of balance, passion, energy or motivation. Others’ convey difficulty relaxing, sleeping, or being emotionally present in their personal lives. I am passionate about working with people who are feeling stressed out, whether it’s related to : school, work, relationships, parenting, or family.
(339) 674-6588 View (339) 674-6588
Photo of Sharon Stout, EdPs, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Stout
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdPs, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, depressed, or wanting to make a change but don't know how? Whether you're struggling with relationships, family problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss of a loved one or job, stress, life changes or other concerns, therapy can help you manage your feelings and make lasting changes. It takes strength to reach out for help when things are not working and I welcome the opportunity to work with you and ensure that you feel heard. With a warm and empathic style, I will work with you to better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Are you feeling stuck, depressed, or wanting to make a change but don't know how? Whether you're struggling with relationships, family problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss of a loved one or job, stress, life changes or other concerns, therapy can help you manage your feelings and make lasting changes. It takes strength to reach out for help when things are not working and I welcome the opportunity to work with you and ensure that you feel heard. With a warm and empathic style, I will work with you to better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(774) 854-8715 View (774) 854-8715
Robert H Kerr
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Are you tired of the same patterns in your relationships with the same poor results? Uncomfortable with where you are currently in your life? Willing to take a look at alternative solutions to live a more fulfilling life. I can help you with the needed change to experience a more satisfactory life and outlook.
Are you tired of the same patterns in your relationships with the same poor results? Uncomfortable with where you are currently in your life? Willing to take a look at alternative solutions to live a more fulfilling life. I can help you with the needed change to experience a more satisfactory life and outlook.
(508) 213-8211 View (508) 213-8211
Photo of Michele Wolfson, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Wolfson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Not accepting new clients
I have been a therapist in various capacities for over 30 years. I have expertise in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, and self-esteem and identity concerns. Presently, my focus is on incorporating a lifestory model to help my clients develop a holistic perspective on their past and present experiences and to view themselves as the main character in their story. Particularly important is learning to recognize one's role as not only the protagonist, but also as the author of one's story. When this occurs, clients take a more proactive role in their lives.
I have been a therapist in various capacities for over 30 years. I have expertise in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, and self-esteem and identity concerns. Presently, my focus is on incorporating a lifestory model to help my clients develop a holistic perspective on their past and present experiences and to view themselves as the main character in their story. Particularly important is learning to recognize one's role as not only the protagonist, but also as the author of one's story. When this occurs, clients take a more proactive role in their lives.
(508) 213-8049 View (508) 213-8049
Photo of Cathleen Metzger, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathleen Metzger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Thank you for considering me as support during your journey of healing and growth. We all experience issues that at times interfere with our life. It is how we explore, address, and manage the impact our past has on the present that makes the difference between the life we are living, and the life we want to live. I provide a respectful, supportive, nonjudgmental environment to support you in your desire for change. My approach includes facilitating clarification of your thoughts and feelings. I will work with you to gain insight into the influences of your life.
Thank you for considering me as support during your journey of healing and growth. We all experience issues that at times interfere with our life. It is how we explore, address, and manage the impact our past has on the present that makes the difference between the life we are living, and the life we want to live. I provide a respectful, supportive, nonjudgmental environment to support you in your desire for change. My approach includes facilitating clarification of your thoughts and feelings. I will work with you to gain insight into the influences of your life.
(508) 671-7085 View (508) 671-7085
Photo of Robin Eitelbach, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Eitelbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
My practice stems from a warm, kind, empathetic approach. I practice with a strength based perspective with individual attunement and collaboration, starting where the client is. I work with adolescence, adults and families. My experience in the field is extensive, working at Gosnold with clients in recovery, with families in Crisis at MSPCC, with students as a High School Social Worker, and with adults who are experiencing life challenges. I am very proud of the work I do and am honored to share in the experiences and stories of others.
My practice stems from a warm, kind, empathetic approach. I practice with a strength based perspective with individual attunement and collaboration, starting where the client is. I work with adolescence, adults and families. My experience in the field is extensive, working at Gosnold with clients in recovery, with families in Crisis at MSPCC, with students as a High School Social Worker, and with adults who are experiencing life challenges. I am very proud of the work I do and am honored to share in the experiences and stories of others.
(508) 719-6363 View (508) 719-6363
Photo of Margaret Kelly Bunzick, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Kelly Bunzick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Presently in private practice for ten years. Previously an LICSW at Cape Cod Psychiatric Center in the partial hospital program. I have a CACD and have worked with addictions. I have been trained in DBT, and have worked with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Prior to returning to school to pursue my degree in social work, I was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurrse. I have a small practice located on Cape Cod in the town of Orleans
Presently in private practice for ten years. Previously an LICSW at Cape Cod Psychiatric Center in the partial hospital program. I have a CACD and have worked with addictions. I have been trained in DBT, and have worked with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Prior to returning to school to pursue my degree in social work, I was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurrse. I have a small practice located on Cape Cod in the town of Orleans
(774) 316-7550 View (774) 316-7550
Photo of Heidi Kirwan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Kirwan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Not accepting new clients
Currently Full I am a caring, dedicated professional with many years of experience in working with individuals, families, and groups. I have worked with individuals from early childhood to older adults to provide guidance regarding many different diagnoses, life events, and family stressors. Personal and professional experiences allow me to work with people in a genuine, judgment and pressure free manner that makes people feel very comfortable. Others have described me as compassionate, thoughtful, and with an appropriate, fun sense of humor. I have been told that I am easy to talk to and am very understanding.
Currently Full I am a caring, dedicated professional with many years of experience in working with individuals, families, and groups. I have worked with individuals from early childhood to older adults to provide guidance regarding many different diagnoses, life events, and family stressors. Personal and professional experiences allow me to work with people in a genuine, judgment and pressure free manner that makes people feel very comfortable. Others have described me as compassionate, thoughtful, and with an appropriate, fun sense of humor. I have been told that I am easy to talk to and am very understanding.
(508) 258-3270 View (508) 258-3270
Photo of Dr. Maura McCullough, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CGIP, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Maura McCullough
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CGIP, NCC
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
Maura has extensive experience providing exceptional client-centered mental health counseling from a biopsychosocial perspective and is deeply committed to providing individual counseling to clients from a trauma-informed perspective. Maura views therapy and counseling as a collaborative process between the client and therapist and is committed to the human art of counseling. She has expertise in attachment-informed grief therapy and life transition counseling. Grief and life transitions can be a journey towards healing and personal growth when supported through compassionate therapy and counseling.
Maura has extensive experience providing exceptional client-centered mental health counseling from a biopsychosocial perspective and is deeply committed to providing individual counseling to clients from a trauma-informed perspective. Maura views therapy and counseling as a collaborative process between the client and therapist and is committed to the human art of counseling. She has expertise in attachment-informed grief therapy and life transition counseling. Grief and life transitions can be a journey towards healing and personal growth when supported through compassionate therapy and counseling.
(508) 306-8520 View (508) 306-8520
Photo of Ellen W Sullivan, LICSW, Coach, Teacher, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen W Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, Coach, Teacher, MSW
Verified Verified
Orleans, MA 02653
To quote Jon Kabat Zinn, 'To be mindful is to befriend the present moment as it is'. Offering mindfulness and meditation individual coaching to people who want to expand their awareness and apply new skills to dealing with life's challenges. I help you cultivate mindfulness principals of self- acceptance, self-compassion, letting go of negative beliefs and thinking. I will help you learn to meditate on a regular basis, coach you to manage stress and emotions, teach basic mindful movement practices, and help you stay focused and grounded in the present moment for a calmer more peaceful approach to life.
To quote Jon Kabat Zinn, 'To be mindful is to befriend the present moment as it is'. Offering mindfulness and meditation individual coaching to people who want to expand their awareness and apply new skills to dealing with life's challenges. I help you cultivate mindfulness principals of self- acceptance, self-compassion, letting go of negative beliefs and thinking. I will help you learn to meditate on a regular basis, coach you to manage stress and emotions, teach basic mindful movement practices, and help you stay focused and grounded in the present moment for a calmer more peaceful approach to life.
(207) 492-4506 View (207) 492-4506
Photo of Lisa M Bacon “Be The Change Psychotherapy”, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa M Bacon “Be The Change Psychotherapy”
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orleans, MA 02653
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, I have a particular interest in working with families and couples, focusing on understanding the dynamics within relationships and developing healthy communication patterns to create lasting positive change for individuals and their loved ones. I also specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, providing gender affirming therapy and addressing LGBTQ+ needs. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space, providing inclusive and compassionate care where emotions can be explored and healing can occur.
As a therapist, I have a particular interest in working with families and couples, focusing on understanding the dynamics within relationships and developing healthy communication patterns to create lasting positive change for individuals and their loved ones. I also specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, providing gender affirming therapy and addressing LGBTQ+ needs. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space, providing inclusive and compassionate care where emotions can be explored and healing can occur.
(774) 316-2484 View (774) 316-2484

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in East Orleans, MA

< 10

Therapists in East Orleans, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Life Coaching
100% Spirituality
100% Other
100% Testing and Evaluation

Average years in practice

48 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in East Orleans, MA see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in East Orleans?

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.