Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Barbara Ritchie, MA, LPC, NCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Ritchie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I have worked in a variety of settings over my 25 years of practice. These experiences have prepared me to treat a wide variety of issues. My first work experience was in an adolescent treatment center and with children in foster care. I have worked as a psychotherapist treating individuals and families.I have worked closely with the Psychiatry staff and school staff treating children and adolescents with a team approach. I also worked as a school counselor where I became aware of the stresses and issues for both children and educators in the school system.
I have worked in a variety of settings over my 25 years of practice. These experiences have prepared me to treat a wide variety of issues. My first work experience was in an adolescent treatment center and with children in foster care. I have worked as a psychotherapist treating individuals and families.I have worked closely with the Psychiatry staff and school staff treating children and adolescents with a team approach. I also worked as a school counselor where I became aware of the stresses and issues for both children and educators in the school system.
(469) 723-7348 View (469) 723-7348
Photo of Turquoise E. Pipes, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turquoise E. Pipes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. I believe that every person has the ability to reach to their fullest potential in life with the right support network and guidance. I have a broad range of counseling experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I use EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy and to assist clients who are interested in establishing better communication skills, have a desire to build healthier relationships, and want to learn positive strategies when dealing with life's day to day challenges.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. I believe that every person has the ability to reach to their fullest potential in life with the right support network and guidance. I have a broad range of counseling experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I use EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy and to assist clients who are interested in establishing better communication skills, have a desire to build healthier relationships, and want to learn positive strategies when dealing with life's day to day challenges.
(214) 978-3879 View (214) 978-3879
Photo of Vanessa Moore-Hundley, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa Moore-Hundley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
I love working with individuals who are ready to face the challenges of life in positive, proactive ways. I work to meet my clients where they are and then companion them on their personal journey toward health and wellness in all ares of their lives. I work best with individuals who are struggling with loss/grief; major life transitions such as health or career changes; and the aftermath of traumatic life events. I partner with my clients to create practical solutions to life challenges that hinder their personal progress.
I love working with individuals who are ready to face the challenges of life in positive, proactive ways. I work to meet my clients where they are and then companion them on their personal journey toward health and wellness in all ares of their lives. I work best with individuals who are struggling with loss/grief; major life transitions such as health or career changes; and the aftermath of traumatic life events. I partner with my clients to create practical solutions to life challenges that hinder their personal progress.
(469) 721-6096 View (469) 721-6096
Photo of Matt McKinney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt McKinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
My goal is to walk alongside individuals, couples and families to see how to best help in their time of need. I work hard to help provide hope to those who are hurting, and believe the only way to experience true change, is for God, to ultimately change a person's heart.
My goal is to walk alongside individuals, couples and families to see how to best help in their time of need. I work hard to help provide hope to those who are hurting, and believe the only way to experience true change, is for God, to ultimately change a person's heart.
(972) 351-8547 View (972) 351-8547
Photo of Troslyn Perry-Mitchell, MA, LPC, ADHD, CSSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Troslyn Perry-Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADHD, CSSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I know that it is tough navigating this life of uncertainty, especially when life is not going "according to plan". Life is messy, human relationships are rarely just black and white. Sometimes we need help understanding ourselves and the people we love. If you deal with individual internal conflicts (anxiety or depression) or external conflicts (stressors with family ADHD-Strong Willed-Children, or family partnerships) and seeking to empower yourself and live a more fulfilling life, I am ready to journey alongside of you.
I know that it is tough navigating this life of uncertainty, especially when life is not going "according to plan". Life is messy, human relationships are rarely just black and white. Sometimes we need help understanding ourselves and the people we love. If you deal with individual internal conflicts (anxiety or depression) or external conflicts (stressors with family ADHD-Strong Willed-Children, or family partnerships) and seeking to empower yourself and live a more fulfilling life, I am ready to journey alongside of you.
(469) 908-2176 View (469) 908-2176
Photo of Traci D Koen, LPC -S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Traci D Koen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC -S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I am committed to helping couples, parents, and families navigate relationship difficulties, strengthening the bonds between partners both as individuals and as parents. My goal is to support you in achieving the family dynamic you have always desired. I also offer guidance to individuals contemplating divorce, helping individuals find clarity and gain valuable insights into themselves and their relationships. Through compassionate and tailored support, I strive to foster healing, growth, and resilience in every individual, couple and family I work with.
I am committed to helping couples, parents, and families navigate relationship difficulties, strengthening the bonds between partners both as individuals and as parents. My goal is to support you in achieving the family dynamic you have always desired. I also offer guidance to individuals contemplating divorce, helping individuals find clarity and gain valuable insights into themselves and their relationships. Through compassionate and tailored support, I strive to foster healing, growth, and resilience in every individual, couple and family I work with.
(469) 658-7833 View (469) 658-7833
Photo of Carla Pinto, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Pinto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
If you find yourself grappling with the demands of daily life, navigating a significant life transition, working through the profound impact of a traumatic experience, or in need of intensive therapy for more complex emotional and mental health issues, I am here to support you. In our collaborative journey, I offer a personalized approach aimed at instigating transformative change and fostering growth in your life. My therapeutic techniques cater to individuals of all ages, meticulously tailored to address the specific and unique needs of each person. Drawing from traditional psychotherapy, I seamlessly integrate transformative
If you find yourself grappling with the demands of daily life, navigating a significant life transition, working through the profound impact of a traumatic experience, or in need of intensive therapy for more complex emotional and mental health issues, I am here to support you. In our collaborative journey, I offer a personalized approach aimed at instigating transformative change and fostering growth in your life. My therapeutic techniques cater to individuals of all ages, meticulously tailored to address the specific and unique needs of each person. Drawing from traditional psychotherapy, I seamlessly integrate transformative
(469) 393-5945 View (469) 393-5945
Photo of Katerina Oskolkoff, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katerina Oskolkoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Do you feel resentful and anxious in your relationships? Ever find yourself obsessing over the perfect thing to do or say so that other person will change and everything will be okay? I've been there too. Codependence is a disconnection from true self rooted in relational trauma that impacts our self-esteem, ability to set boundaries, know our wants and needs, and find balance. Relating to others from our wounds leaves us feeling out of control and helpless. Working with a therapist who really understands relational trauma, how it impacts you, and how to heal can open you up to more peace, presence, and wholeness.
Do you feel resentful and anxious in your relationships? Ever find yourself obsessing over the perfect thing to do or say so that other person will change and everything will be okay? I've been there too. Codependence is a disconnection from true self rooted in relational trauma that impacts our self-esteem, ability to set boundaries, know our wants and needs, and find balance. Relating to others from our wounds leaves us feeling out of control and helpless. Working with a therapist who really understands relational trauma, how it impacts you, and how to heal can open you up to more peace, presence, and wholeness.
(469) 809-1944 View (469) 809-1944
Photo of Michelle La Spata, PhD, Psychologist
Michelle La Spata
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
Michelle La Spata is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. She has held licenses in Texas since 2021, but she has been practicing school psychology for 20 years. She graduated from Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas with a PhD in School Psychology. Dr. La Spata completed her post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology at the Child Neuropsychology and Counseling Center in Dallas, Texas.
Michelle La Spata is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. She has held licenses in Texas since 2021, but she has been practicing school psychology for 20 years. She graduated from Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas with a PhD in School Psychology. Dr. La Spata completed her post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology at the Child Neuropsychology and Counseling Center in Dallas, Texas.
(972) 366-4281 View (972) 366-4281
Photo of Elizabeth Martin, MSW, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
(469) 361-7235 View (469) 361-7235
Photo of Jillian Cruzet, MS, LPC-A
Jillian Cruzet
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Seeking therapy is a courageous act of resilience. My clients are looking to cultivate a deep sense of healing and self-compassion. I work well with folks (15+) of all identities who express concerns related to traumatic experiences, relationship wounds, anxiety, and self-esteem. I specialize in helping people overcome feelings of shame and guilt, with a subspecialty in understanding how these emotions are deeply rooted in relational trauma, particularly within the unique experiences of the AAPI community.
Seeking therapy is a courageous act of resilience. My clients are looking to cultivate a deep sense of healing and self-compassion. I work well with folks (15+) of all identities who express concerns related to traumatic experiences, relationship wounds, anxiety, and self-esteem. I specialize in helping people overcome feelings of shame and guilt, with a subspecialty in understanding how these emotions are deeply rooted in relational trauma, particularly within the unique experiences of the AAPI community.
(972) 521-9743 View (972) 521-9743
Photo of Monica Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm delighted that you've taken this step towards prioritizing your well-being by exploring therapy. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing stress, coping with anxiety or depression, navigating loss, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, we can work towards understanding your challenges, uncovering insights, and developing practical strategies that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
Hello! I'm delighted that you've taken this step towards prioritizing your well-being by exploring therapy. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing stress, coping with anxiety or depression, navigating loss, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, we can work towards understanding your challenges, uncovering insights, and developing practical strategies that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
(469) 402-4684 View (469) 402-4684
Photo of Melani Massey, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melani Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
If you're looking for a caring, compassionate, personalized therapeutic approach, you've come to the right place. I will give you the attention and support that you need while processing whatever change you are going through. I enjoy helping teen girls and women develop healthy self-esteem and begin to see the value that they add to the world. Helping individuals uncover their authentic selves is my passion! I would love to meet you and help you discover your best you!
If you're looking for a caring, compassionate, personalized therapeutic approach, you've come to the right place. I will give you the attention and support that you need while processing whatever change you are going through. I enjoy helping teen girls and women develop healthy self-esteem and begin to see the value that they add to the world. Helping individuals uncover their authentic selves is my passion! I would love to meet you and help you discover your best you!
(972) 893-9082 View (972) 893-9082
Photo of McCartney James Paul, LPC-A
McCartney James Paul
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
As your counselor, I will meet you wherever you are and walk alongside you toward growth and positive change. I offer professional Christian counseling for children, teens, couples, adult individuals, families, and groups. Others have described me as having a genuine, warm personality and I sincerely enjoy building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Whether you’re dealing with depression, relationship issues, chemical dependency, anxiety, trauma, anger, or other concerns, I would be honored to listen to your story and work with you to develop an effective treatment plan to best meet your needs and goals.
As your counselor, I will meet you wherever you are and walk alongside you toward growth and positive change. I offer professional Christian counseling for children, teens, couples, adult individuals, families, and groups. Others have described me as having a genuine, warm personality and I sincerely enjoy building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Whether you’re dealing with depression, relationship issues, chemical dependency, anxiety, trauma, anger, or other concerns, I would be honored to listen to your story and work with you to develop an effective treatment plan to best meet your needs and goals.
(469) 564-8366 View (469) 564-8366
Photo of Lindsay Malhotra, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Malhotra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am now open for sessions, offering both virtual and in-person options to suit your needs and comfort. Understanding the importance of accessible mental health and wellness support, I'm thrilled to introduce a sliding scale payment option. This means you can receive the care you need at a rate that respects your financial situation. Whether you're seeking guidance, looking for a space to express yourself, or embarking on a journey of personal growth, I'm here to support you with empathy and expertise. My approach is tailored to your unique story, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for your journey.
I am now open for sessions, offering both virtual and in-person options to suit your needs and comfort. Understanding the importance of accessible mental health and wellness support, I'm thrilled to introduce a sliding scale payment option. This means you can receive the care you need at a rate that respects your financial situation. Whether you're seeking guidance, looking for a space to express yourself, or embarking on a journey of personal growth, I'm here to support you with empathy and expertise. My approach is tailored to your unique story, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for your journey.
(469) 272-8229 View (469) 272-8229
Photo of Mamoona Hassan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mamoona Hassan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
If you are feeling stressed, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling stuck in a relationship thats going no where, want to learn to communicate better, struggling to find motivation, feeling a sense of hopelessness, problems with outburst and aggression, poor self-esteem, trust issues, dealing with sexual abuse, domestic violence, bullying, problems at school, social anxiety, behavioral issues, problems with parenting, problem with dealing and communication with parents.......
If you are feeling stressed, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling stuck in a relationship thats going no where, want to learn to communicate better, struggling to find motivation, feeling a sense of hopelessness, problems with outburst and aggression, poor self-esteem, trust issues, dealing with sexual abuse, domestic violence, bullying, problems at school, social anxiety, behavioral issues, problems with parenting, problem with dealing and communication with parents.......
(214) 997-6838 View (214) 997-6838
Photo of Lora Kingsley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lora Kingsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Waitlist for new clients
If you are pursuing counseling for yourself or your teen for the first time, I commend you on your bravery. It’s not easy to know what to look for in a therapist. I pride myself on being able to put my clients at ease and meeting them where they are. I develop an individualized treatment plan for each client based on their specific needs. My goal is to give my clients a “tool box” to help them cope with life’s difficulties. I want to help you feel more positive, improve your relationships, and recognize and change patterns that aren't working for you so you can have more peace and satisfaction in your life.
If you are pursuing counseling for yourself or your teen for the first time, I commend you on your bravery. It’s not easy to know what to look for in a therapist. I pride myself on being able to put my clients at ease and meeting them where they are. I develop an individualized treatment plan for each client based on their specific needs. My goal is to give my clients a “tool box” to help them cope with life’s difficulties. I want to help you feel more positive, improve your relationships, and recognize and change patterns that aren't working for you so you can have more peace and satisfaction in your life.
(214) 623-6755 View (214) 623-6755
Photo of Ekaterina New, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ekaterina New
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Hi there! I’m Ekaterina. I believe you have the power to grow, no matter the circumstances. I create a safe space to allow us to learn and explore what is going on in your life. I will help you utilize new approaches to facilitate change. I believe in providing you with a compassionate ear, while providing feedback and encouragement to take action. I hope you and I can find meaning, gain insight, and understanding. We can walk through it together.
Hi there! I’m Ekaterina. I believe you have the power to grow, no matter the circumstances. I create a safe space to allow us to learn and explore what is going on in your life. I will help you utilize new approaches to facilitate change. I believe in providing you with a compassionate ear, while providing feedback and encouragement to take action. I hope you and I can find meaning, gain insight, and understanding. We can walk through it together.
(972) 525-7819 View (972) 525-7819
Photo of Karen Cummings - Karen Cummings, LPC-S , MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Cummings, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
We all encounter various life challenges; maybe at different stages or under different circumstances but none of us should have to endure them alone. Sometimes we may need short-term support and sometimes ongoing support. Whether you simply need to hit the "reset" button to get back on track or "pause" for time to sort everything out, working together we can create and implement a plan to help you safely reach your personal dreams, desires and destination at your pace.
We all encounter various life challenges; maybe at different stages or under different circumstances but none of us should have to endure them alone. Sometimes we may need short-term support and sometimes ongoing support. Whether you simply need to hit the "reset" button to get back on track or "pause" for time to sort everything out, working together we can create and implement a plan to help you safely reach your personal dreams, desires and destination at your pace.
(972) 325-7766 View (972) 325-7766
Photo of Natalie Benedetto, PhD, Psychologist
Natalie Benedetto
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Many, if not all, of us experience periods of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and burdened by life's demands, responsibilities, and even positive events like beginning a new job or getting married. You don't have to go through hard times alone, and while I always encourage people to reach out to friends and family for support, sometimes their advice and cheerleading is not enough. Therapy can help you through these hard times. Successful therapy allows you to live a more fulfilling life, accomplish your goals, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
Many, if not all, of us experience periods of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and burdened by life's demands, responsibilities, and even positive events like beginning a new job or getting married. You don't have to go through hard times alone, and while I always encourage people to reach out to friends and family for support, sometimes their advice and cheerleading is not enough. Therapy can help you through these hard times. Successful therapy allows you to live a more fulfilling life, accomplish your goals, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
(469) 986-5595 View (469) 986-5595
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plano, TX

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Plano, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Plano, TX see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plano?

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.