Therapists in Mount Vernon, NY

Photo of Robert Douglas, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Robert Douglas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of helping individuals and families and 15 years as a licensed therapist, I have come to realize that mental wellness is a relational journey. People are at varying stages of this journey when they seek assistance to feel better, however the common factor is that they are seeking validation or invalidation for their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. In essence, they are looking to be heard! I am able to provide a safe and casual exchange where you the client are able to speak freely in a nonjudgmental environment. It is most important to build a relationship, albeit a therapeutic one with those who chose me.
With over 20 years of helping individuals and families and 15 years as a licensed therapist, I have come to realize that mental wellness is a relational journey. People are at varying stages of this journey when they seek assistance to feel better, however the common factor is that they are seeking validation or invalidation for their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. In essence, they are looking to be heard! I am able to provide a safe and casual exchange where you the client are able to speak freely in a nonjudgmental environment. It is most important to build a relationship, albeit a therapeutic one with those who chose me.
(914) 274-4488 View (914) 274-4488
Photo of Evadne Reid, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evadne Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
I have a genuine interest in helping people coping with depression, anxiety, low self esteem and trauma related issues. If you are looking for someone who will listen without judgment and offer honest and supportive feedback, then I can help you. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth and development. My goal is to assist you in generating deeper insight into your personal thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I have more than twenty years experience working with individuals and couples who were experiencing depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues and low self esteem.
I have a genuine interest in helping people coping with depression, anxiety, low self esteem and trauma related issues. If you are looking for someone who will listen without judgment and offer honest and supportive feedback, then I can help you. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth and development. My goal is to assist you in generating deeper insight into your personal thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I have more than twenty years experience working with individuals and couples who were experiencing depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues and low self esteem.
(914) 650-1743 View (914) 650-1743
Photo of Trenace Lee, MHC-LP
Trenace Lee
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
“Healing is not linear, but it is possible.” As a MHC-LP I provide a welcoming and judgement free environment for individual that require assistance navigating through their life challenges. I provide individual telehealth counseling to individuals who are dealing with but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, and daily life stressors. Lets embark on this therapeutic journey together. Take the first step to help. Text or email Trenace Lee now - (914) 341-4151
“Healing is not linear, but it is possible.” As a MHC-LP I provide a welcoming and judgement free environment for individual that require assistance navigating through their life challenges. I provide individual telehealth counseling to individuals who are dealing with but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, and daily life stressors. Lets embark on this therapeutic journey together. Take the first step to help. Text or email Trenace Lee now - (914) 341-4151
(929) 547-9738 View (929) 547-9738
Photo of Briana A Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana A Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
Are things shifting in your life and you find yourself looking for the proper footing to take life by the reins? Are you trying to figure out your purpose, impact, and strengths? Do you find yourself struggling to communicate in your relationships? You are not alone. I am here to relate to you in an authentic way, offering you transparency, and partnering with you through every step of the work. I will help you feel confident knowing and communicating your wants, needs, and desires through your life transitions. I also provide coaching and/or family therapy to help parents and children communicate better.
Are things shifting in your life and you find yourself looking for the proper footing to take life by the reins? Are you trying to figure out your purpose, impact, and strengths? Do you find yourself struggling to communicate in your relationships? You are not alone. I am here to relate to you in an authentic way, offering you transparency, and partnering with you through every step of the work. I will help you feel confident knowing and communicating your wants, needs, and desires through your life transitions. I also provide coaching and/or family therapy to help parents and children communicate better.
(914) 687-5282 View (914) 687-5282
Photo of Tracey Prisca Stephen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Prisca Stephen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and thoughtful individual psychotherapist. I have significant areas of expertise in working with young adults and adults (18-60 years old) struggling with mood issues such as anxiety, depression and relationship and work issues like work-related stress and inter-generational conflict. I am especially skilled in working on conflict and emotional and mental stress due to current and historical racial animus. I utilize practices such as motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy in accordance with your needs and comfort level.
I am a compassionate and thoughtful individual psychotherapist. I have significant areas of expertise in working with young adults and adults (18-60 years old) struggling with mood issues such as anxiety, depression and relationship and work issues like work-related stress and inter-generational conflict. I am especially skilled in working on conflict and emotional and mental stress due to current and historical racial animus. I utilize practices such as motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy in accordance with your needs and comfort level.
(914) 279-8760 View (914) 279-8760
Photo of Carriel C. Brodie, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Carriel C. Brodie
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Potential generally refers to someone’s current unrealized ability. If you’re reading this you may have already come to the realization that you need assistance in reaching your full potential. Whether that may be assistance with daily life stressors, difficulty with adjustment, depression, anxiety or exploring traumas, it would be a privilege to walk alongside you in your journey. If you are searching for someone who will listen without judgment and offer supportive feedback I can be of service. I like to consider myself a present-day therapist in which I aspire to encourage my clients to bring their experiences and lifestyles.
Potential generally refers to someone’s current unrealized ability. If you’re reading this you may have already come to the realization that you need assistance in reaching your full potential. Whether that may be assistance with daily life stressors, difficulty with adjustment, depression, anxiety or exploring traumas, it would be a privilege to walk alongside you in your journey. If you are searching for someone who will listen without judgment and offer supportive feedback I can be of service. I like to consider myself a present-day therapist in which I aspire to encourage my clients to bring their experiences and lifestyles.
(914) 785-6848 View (914) 785-6848
Photo of Alma T Watkins, LMHC, CASAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alma T Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
My ideal client is ready to explore their own patterns of behavior and gain insight into the ways these patterns impact their relationships. I specialize in family therapy, relationship therapy and group work. This includes work with multiple couples in a group format as well groups of friends. If you have a relationship that you're interested in improving, I'm here to help. We learn a lot about ourselves from the relationships and friendships that we choose. I enjoy helping individuals gain insight about themselves based on these connections while taking your relationships and friendships to the next level.
My ideal client is ready to explore their own patterns of behavior and gain insight into the ways these patterns impact their relationships. I specialize in family therapy, relationship therapy and group work. This includes work with multiple couples in a group format as well groups of friends. If you have a relationship that you're interested in improving, I'm here to help. We learn a lot about ourselves from the relationships and friendships that we choose. I enjoy helping individuals gain insight about themselves based on these connections while taking your relationships and friendships to the next level.
(914) 380-3874 View (914) 380-3874
Photo of Mindy Convie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Convie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
Are you looking for somebody to talk to about challenging transitions, life events or relationships? If anxiety, stress or self doubt are holding you back, there is hope. Therapy is a safe place for you to connect deeply with yourself from a place of compassion. Often the emotional reactions that we struggle with in adulthood were helpful and served a purpose during our earlier years. In therapy you can learn to connect with every part of yourself and foster a sense of safety within your mind, body and heart. If you are ready to feel more present and grounded in your daily life, therapy can help.
Are you looking for somebody to talk to about challenging transitions, life events or relationships? If anxiety, stress or self doubt are holding you back, there is hope. Therapy is a safe place for you to connect deeply with yourself from a place of compassion. Often the emotional reactions that we struggle with in adulthood were helpful and served a purpose during our earlier years. In therapy you can learn to connect with every part of yourself and foster a sense of safety within your mind, body and heart. If you are ready to feel more present and grounded in your daily life, therapy can help.
(914) 559-9137 View (914) 559-9137
Photo of Sandra Christina Vilar-Ferreira, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Christina Vilar-Ferreira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
Welcome! I am a bilingual LCSW-R, practicing therapy for the last 23 years. I have specialized in Complex trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am currently taking individual therapy appointments and Family Therapy as well. I also do group work with adolescents and adults. I am EMDR trained and work with the whole body and mind in the processing of challenging memories and emotions.
Welcome! I am a bilingual LCSW-R, practicing therapy for the last 23 years. I have specialized in Complex trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am currently taking individual therapy appointments and Family Therapy as well. I also do group work with adolescents and adults. I am EMDR trained and work with the whole body and mind in the processing of challenging memories and emotions.
(914) 594-5458 View (914) 594-5458
Photo of Patricia Kissi-Nuamah - New Meaning Therapy, MHC
New Meaning Therapy
MHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
New Meaning Therapy is designed with the client in mind. Our therapist used different methods to meet the client where they are at in their journey. What brings you to therapy is how the therapist determine treatment. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, Depression, self-discovery, or abuse, your mental health and how you want to succeed is what drives the therapist. Our therapist build trusting and open relationships with our clients by providing a judgement free space. we will provide a safe space to either meet in person or via telehealth 100% secure and confidential.
New Meaning Therapy is designed with the client in mind. Our therapist used different methods to meet the client where they are at in their journey. What brings you to therapy is how the therapist determine treatment. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, Depression, self-discovery, or abuse, your mental health and how you want to succeed is what drives the therapist. Our therapist build trusting and open relationships with our clients by providing a judgement free space. we will provide a safe space to either meet in person or via telehealth 100% secure and confidential.
(914) 359-3645 View (914) 359-3645
Photo of Stephanie Massiah, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Massiah
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
Life is not easy, it is full of joy, pain, sadness, obstacles, and successes and I believe everyone has a story to tell. You may be looking for relief from life’s daily stressors, anxiety, or trauma. Please know there is hope. Together, through counseling, you can begin to feel better in times like these as well as other transitions in your life so you can begin a fresh path.
Life is not easy, it is full of joy, pain, sadness, obstacles, and successes and I believe everyone has a story to tell. You may be looking for relief from life’s daily stressors, anxiety, or trauma. Please know there is hope. Together, through counseling, you can begin to feel better in times like these as well as other transitions in your life so you can begin a fresh path.
(929) 346-4866 View (929) 346-4866
Photo of Jaclyn Gioffre, MHC-LP
Jaclyn Gioffre
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
Feeling anxious all the time is such a crippling feeling and can feel like there is no escaping it. Just when one anxious thought starts to go away, another one shows up and takes its place. It can feel like an endless cycle of racing thoughts, worry, and fear about anything and everything. It’s hard to know when the anxiety will be over especially living in an anxiety-inducing world that is constantly changing which in turn leads to more anxiety. If this sounds like you, you're not alone!
Feeling anxious all the time is such a crippling feeling and can feel like there is no escaping it. Just when one anxious thought starts to go away, another one shows up and takes its place. It can feel like an endless cycle of racing thoughts, worry, and fear about anything and everything. It’s hard to know when the anxiety will be over especially living in an anxiety-inducing world that is constantly changing which in turn leads to more anxiety. If this sounds like you, you're not alone!
(929) 445-2107 View (929) 445-2107
Photo of Shayon Hewitt, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shayon Hewitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10553
Therapy is a space where the past and present can be looked at through with new lenses, re-contextualized and re-understood. The more aware we are of our motives, feelings, thoughts, actions & perceptions the less we are controlled by them & less likely to be stuck in old patterns that no longer work. Therapy can be a short-term experience navigating crisis or it can be a longer process to learn more about who you are. There is no cookie cutter process with therapy therefore I utilize a person centered approach.
Therapy is a space where the past and present can be looked at through with new lenses, re-contextualized and re-understood. The more aware we are of our motives, feelings, thoughts, actions & perceptions the less we are controlled by them & less likely to be stuck in old patterns that no longer work. Therapy can be a short-term experience navigating crisis or it can be a longer process to learn more about who you are. There is no cookie cutter process with therapy therefore I utilize a person centered approach.
(347) 970-7230 View (347) 970-7230
Photo of Gabrielle Hamilton, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
Not accepting new clients
I believe that sharing your thoughts and feelings with me in my safe and confidential office will help you to feel better. I have worked in the field for almost 30 years in crisis teams, mental health clinics, schools, domestic violence programs, and geriatric services. I am non-judgmental and happy to help you recover from crisis, bereavement (grief or loss), the stress of long-term debilitating illness, ongoing anxiety or fear, mood disorders, and school related issues.
I believe that sharing your thoughts and feelings with me in my safe and confidential office will help you to feel better. I have worked in the field for almost 30 years in crisis teams, mental health clinics, schools, domestic violence programs, and geriatric services. I am non-judgmental and happy to help you recover from crisis, bereavement (grief or loss), the stress of long-term debilitating illness, ongoing anxiety or fear, mood disorders, and school related issues.
(914) 219-0308 View (914) 219-0308
Photo of Angela Lobdell, LMHC, Counselor
Angela Lobdell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10552  (Online Only)
I have always felt that my purpose in life was to serve in some capacity. While completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I discovered a passion for human service and the field of counseling. I realized through my studies and personal experiences in therapy that what people seek the most is a safe place that is free from judgment and centered around acceptance. My goal is to be able to provide the same quality of care to every human being I encounter on their personal journey of healing.
I have always felt that my purpose in life was to serve in some capacity. While completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I discovered a passion for human service and the field of counseling. I realized through my studies and personal experiences in therapy that what people seek the most is a safe place that is free from judgment and centered around acceptance. My goal is to be able to provide the same quality of care to every human being I encounter on their personal journey of healing.
(914) 785-6589 View (914) 785-6589
Photo of Michelle Grennan, PhD, Psychologist
Michelle Grennan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
My specialty is trauma, with the understanding that trauma is often not just one major event, but also the cumulative effect of both severe and more subtle traumas over a lifetime, ranging from emotional deprivation, bullying, verbal abuse to rejections and perceived failures. Since I believe that trauma contributes to most issues, I work with a broad range of patients, including those struggling with interpersonal problems, having difficulty reaching personal and professional goals, or lacking confidence and positive self-image. I also work with patients experiencing mental illness, ranging from depression to psychotic disorders.
My specialty is trauma, with the understanding that trauma is often not just one major event, but also the cumulative effect of both severe and more subtle traumas over a lifetime, ranging from emotional deprivation, bullying, verbal abuse to rejections and perceived failures. Since I believe that trauma contributes to most issues, I work with a broad range of patients, including those struggling with interpersonal problems, having difficulty reaching personal and professional goals, or lacking confidence and positive self-image. I also work with patients experiencing mental illness, ranging from depression to psychotic disorders.
(914) 996-4698 View (914) 996-4698
Photo of Diaon M Clarke, LCSW-R, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diaon M Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. ~Maya Angelou Too often we walk through life fearful of telling our real story. But when we tell our story we free ourselves from unhealed wounds. Telling our story helps us to find our strength and recognize our resiliency through difficult times. Emotional well-being is one of the most important parts of an individual's life. Unfortunately it is a part of life that we often forget to take care of. We all deserve to enjoy the lives we live. You are worthy of a life you can enjoy!
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. ~Maya Angelou Too often we walk through life fearful of telling our real story. But when we tell our story we free ourselves from unhealed wounds. Telling our story helps us to find our strength and recognize our resiliency through difficult times. Emotional well-being is one of the most important parts of an individual's life. Unfortunately it is a part of life that we often forget to take care of. We all deserve to enjoy the lives we live. You are worthy of a life you can enjoy!
(914) 290-5326 View (914) 290-5326
Photo of Myrna Noble-Headad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Myrna Noble-Headad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling lost or stuck in your career, in college or in your relationships? Do you feel like you “gotta get it together” and are trying to figure out what your next steps should be? You probably already have what it takes and we can figure it out so you can be a better YOU! Our past experiences, societal oppression and our own internal dialogues can place these barriers that make us feel hurt and stagnant in our lives. In our work together, we will work on ways to understand these barriers, heal from them and learn how to gain a more fulfilling life.
Are you feeling lost or stuck in your career, in college or in your relationships? Do you feel like you “gotta get it together” and are trying to figure out what your next steps should be? You probably already have what it takes and we can figure it out so you can be a better YOU! Our past experiences, societal oppression and our own internal dialogues can place these barriers that make us feel hurt and stagnant in our lives. In our work together, we will work on ways to understand these barriers, heal from them and learn how to gain a more fulfilling life.
(914) 506-5351 View (914) 506-5351
Photo of Doxene Roberts - Therapy-Helps LCSW, PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy-Helps LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I believe in using a tailored approach to assist with developing clear, attainable treatment goals instead of adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues. I have extensive experience working with adolescence and adults who present with challenges managing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, co-dependency, parenting, self esteem, addictions, psychological effects of disease management and much more. We are all on a journey of change and growth and I am here to take these steps with you. I am Licensed in New York and Connecticut.
I believe in using a tailored approach to assist with developing clear, attainable treatment goals instead of adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues. I have extensive experience working with adolescence and adults who present with challenges managing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, co-dependency, parenting, self esteem, addictions, psychological effects of disease management and much more. We are all on a journey of change and growth and I am here to take these steps with you. I am Licensed in New York and Connecticut.
(914) 342-7370 View (914) 342-7370
Photo of Paris Johnson-Distant, LCSW
Paris Johnson-Distant
Licensed Master Social Worker, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I aim to offer a pure experience and room for self awareness, motivation, thought modification and behavior change. I am a firm believer in providing therapeutic services in an authentic and genuine manner by remaining respectful to and knowledgeable of cultural differences.
I aim to offer a pure experience and room for self awareness, motivation, thought modification and behavior change. I am a firm believer in providing therapeutic services in an authentic and genuine manner by remaining respectful to and knowledgeable of cultural differences.
(914) 732-4755 View (914) 732-4755

See more therapy options for Mount Vernon

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mount Vernon, NY

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Mount Vernon, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
76% Coping Skills
75% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
73% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Mount Vernon, NY see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Mount Vernon?

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.