Therapists in Alcoa, TN
![Photo of Tammy R Lynn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c810168d-61e2-469d-9acc-735b5ab68f15/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 plus years’ experience. I have extensive training and expertise in mental health and chemical dependency. I utilizes evidence-based interventions and approaches to help individuals, couples, and families navigate through challenging life situations to improve their overall well-being.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 plus years’ experience. I have extensive training and expertise in mental health and chemical dependency. I utilizes evidence-based interventions and approaches to help individuals, couples, and families navigate through challenging life situations to improve their overall well-being.
![Photo of Alison Johnston Mistak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e915967-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Johnston Mistak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
Not accepting new clients
I am currently unable to take new clients. Seeing a counselor doesn't mean you are "crazy" or weak. We all have times in our lives when we feel stuck and need help in getting ourselves or our family out of the patterns that aren't working for us. I strive to provide a personal, comfortable experience for my clients where they can learn to utilize their own strengths to develop the life and relationships they want. I hope to help people gain a better understanding of how their thoughts and experiences are influencing their emotions and provide practical feedback to guide you towards the life you want.
I am currently unable to take new clients. Seeing a counselor doesn't mean you are "crazy" or weak. We all have times in our lives when we feel stuck and need help in getting ourselves or our family out of the patterns that aren't working for us. I strive to provide a personal, comfortable experience for my clients where they can learn to utilize their own strengths to develop the life and relationships they want. I hope to help people gain a better understanding of how their thoughts and experiences are influencing their emotions and provide practical feedback to guide you towards the life you want.
![Photo of Patricia L Wharton - Patricia Wharton, LADAC2, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1567249f-57ae-4b5f-a531-6d7b8fe85b20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Wharton, LADAC2
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
If you need a Substance Abuse Disorder Assessment or Alcohol & Drug Education/Counseling as required by the court or your work place, I can help with that. If you are a parent who is fearful about your child's choices, I am here to help. In any of these situations, think of me as a professional who has been in the field for 18 years. I am equipped to help reduce your suffering just by offering you understanding, compassion, knowledge and guidance.
If you need a Substance Abuse Disorder Assessment or Alcohol & Drug Education/Counseling as required by the court or your work place, I can help with that. If you are a parent who is fearful about your child's choices, I am here to help. In any of these situations, think of me as a professional who has been in the field for 18 years. I am equipped to help reduce your suffering just by offering you understanding, compassion, knowledge and guidance.
![Photo of Meghan Rasnake, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486bd47d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
First of all, there is nothing wrong with you, okay? You are inherently whole and worthy just as you are. You are so much more than what has happened to you or what you are struggling with right now. Even if it feels like that’s all you can think about, there are time-tested tools we can use to get you or your child back to living the life you want to live. I am passionate about ending the cycle of generational anxiety and trauma by guiding parents through the landmines of their past and supporting children and families to become more connected and more present with each other. I would love to work with you if…
First of all, there is nothing wrong with you, okay? You are inherently whole and worthy just as you are. You are so much more than what has happened to you or what you are struggling with right now. Even if it feels like that’s all you can think about, there are time-tested tools we can use to get you or your child back to living the life you want to live. I am passionate about ending the cycle of generational anxiety and trauma by guiding parents through the landmines of their past and supporting children and families to become more connected and more present with each other. I would love to work with you if…
![Photo of Maddison Park, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13f7757a-fc75-46cd-9de6-9d9e3538a238/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life is a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected detours. Amidst these transitions, it's normal to feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of which path to take. That's where I come in. I'm Maddison Park, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing compassionate support and guidance to individuals navigating life's most challenging transitions. Having worked in crisis intervention, residential treatment, and community-based counseling, I have had the privilege of supporting adults, children, and families through a wide range of challenges and transitions.
Life is a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected detours. Amidst these transitions, it's normal to feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of which path to take. That's where I come in. I'm Maddison Park, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing compassionate support and guidance to individuals navigating life's most challenging transitions. Having worked in crisis intervention, residential treatment, and community-based counseling, I have had the privilege of supporting adults, children, and families through a wide range of challenges and transitions.
![Photo of Aiden Chehade, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e1a0128-863c-46f4-aa84-ce7e336ad288/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and handling everything by yourself? Maybe you're too stressed, frustrated, and lonely to really enjoy your life. It's tough to maintain motivation when it feels like nothing is getting better, but you know on some level that it doesn't have to be this way. Looking for help can be the first step towards change. I understand how hard it is to deal with these issues, especially if you're used to dealing with things on your own. I want to provide a space where you feel comfortable exploring and addressing these issues at a pace that feels right to you.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and handling everything by yourself? Maybe you're too stressed, frustrated, and lonely to really enjoy your life. It's tough to maintain motivation when it feels like nothing is getting better, but you know on some level that it doesn't have to be this way. Looking for help can be the first step towards change. I understand how hard it is to deal with these issues, especially if you're used to dealing with things on your own. I want to provide a space where you feel comfortable exploring and addressing these issues at a pace that feels right to you.
![Photo of Shawn Helvey, LPC, MHSP, MA, WFR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f8b0923-fac2-4ff1-82f5-8e5533039f04/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with men of all ages who are trying to find their path. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious in your day-to-day life can mean you are on the cusp of a life transition which can be a great opportunity. I help clients work through the areas where they struggle, whether they involve personal, school, relational, or career challenges. I believe that once you identify what you want and know what stands in your way and how to overcome it, you are more motivated to work toward your goals.
I work with men of all ages who are trying to find their path. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious in your day-to-day life can mean you are on the cusp of a life transition which can be a great opportunity. I help clients work through the areas where they struggle, whether they involve personal, school, relational, or career challenges. I believe that once you identify what you want and know what stands in your way and how to overcome it, you are more motivated to work toward your goals.
![Photo of Emma Poole, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f562881-ac97-44ba-8adb-17b0c34d3c11/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new clients until August 2024. Hi there! I specialize in working with adults who have had difficult relationship experiences throughout their lives. Maybe you had a difficult childhood. Maybe you struggle with your current romantic relationship. Maybe you have a difficult time trusting yourself or others. Maybe your relationship is struggling to survive the impact of old wounds. Maybe you do not know how to find relief from the pain of the past.
I am not currently accepting new clients until August 2024. Hi there! I specialize in working with adults who have had difficult relationship experiences throughout their lives. Maybe you had a difficult childhood. Maybe you struggle with your current romantic relationship. Maybe you have a difficult time trusting yourself or others. Maybe your relationship is struggling to survive the impact of old wounds. Maybe you do not know how to find relief from the pain of the past.
![Photo of Katrise Thompson, MEd, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd62a133-8b08-4740-8abd-abf85d8d7583/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katrise Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
Breaking the stigma of mental health begins by choosing to be healthy for yourself. Trusting someone is difficult, especially when struggling with mental health, because it makes us feel vulnerable. Please know vulnerability is not a weakness. My passion is helping, including creating a comfortable space that allows individuals to be their authentic selves. We all have a story that includes various experiences. I enjoy helping individuals to gain an understanding of their stories to provide them with clarity and empowerment. My experience includes domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
Breaking the stigma of mental health begins by choosing to be healthy for yourself. Trusting someone is difficult, especially when struggling with mental health, because it makes us feel vulnerable. Please know vulnerability is not a weakness. My passion is helping, including creating a comfortable space that allows individuals to be their authentic selves. We all have a story that includes various experiences. I enjoy helping individuals to gain an understanding of their stories to provide them with clarity and empowerment. My experience includes domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
![Photo of Joe J McNamara, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d32dfd9-2c67-4c40-9f02-5a7ec96964c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joe J McNamara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. Do you wake up in a life that feels unrecognizable, wondering how you got here? Are feelings of hopelessness and guilt overshadowing your days, leaving you trapped in patterns that no longer serve you? Maybe you have sought relief through drugs, alcohol, work, sex, or relationships only to find this relief fleeting and the problems continuing to stack up around you. You desperately want a better life for yourself, but you no longer know how to get there.
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. Do you wake up in a life that feels unrecognizable, wondering how you got here? Are feelings of hopelessness and guilt overshadowing your days, leaving you trapped in patterns that no longer serve you? Maybe you have sought relief through drugs, alcohol, work, sex, or relationships only to find this relief fleeting and the problems continuing to stack up around you. You desperately want a better life for yourself, but you no longer know how to get there.
![Photo of Hannah Cole, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/732454d7-5d0a-4ec4-88e6-7619ab76ece5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Visit my website to see my real-time availability and request an appointment. "I don't need to talk about it." That may be what you have always believed, but life keeps happening and now you don't know what else to do. It could be that you feel like no one has ever really understood or accepted you as you are, or maybe something traumatic has happened. Maybe you're in a relationship with someone you love, but you can't seem to make it work, or maybe you feel shame after turning toward an addiction to fill the emptiness. At some point, everything that used to work stops working and you wonder if you will ever be happy again.
Visit my website to see my real-time availability and request an appointment. "I don't need to talk about it." That may be what you have always believed, but life keeps happening and now you don't know what else to do. It could be that you feel like no one has ever really understood or accepted you as you are, or maybe something traumatic has happened. Maybe you're in a relationship with someone you love, but you can't seem to make it work, or maybe you feel shame after turning toward an addiction to fill the emptiness. At some point, everything that used to work stops working and you wonder if you will ever be happy again.
![Photo of Kendra Hart, MHSP, LADAC 2, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf9c9bc-ad9a-458f-aed4-2613f410b92b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life has brought you here and I believe it is for a reason. Are you ready to start your journey towards healing? I think you are! You have been suffering long enough. Whether you have been tormented by your anxiety, oppressed by your depression, lost in your addiction or felt unsafe from your trauma, I am here to help. Is anger or other uncomfortable emotions controlling your life? Maybe it's the deep pain from the sadness of losing someone you love? Do you want help to stop those racing thoughts? Or maybe you just feel stuck and unmotivated? You are certainly not alone and there are ways to help overcome your struggles.
Life has brought you here and I believe it is for a reason. Are you ready to start your journey towards healing? I think you are! You have been suffering long enough. Whether you have been tormented by your anxiety, oppressed by your depression, lost in your addiction or felt unsafe from your trauma, I am here to help. Is anger or other uncomfortable emotions controlling your life? Maybe it's the deep pain from the sadness of losing someone you love? Do you want help to stop those racing thoughts? Or maybe you just feel stuck and unmotivated? You are certainly not alone and there are ways to help overcome your struggles.
![Photo of Stuart Coleman, MAPC, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MACE, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0856da2c-9202-47bb-9405-80bfe105024b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stuart Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MACE
Verified Verified
Alcoa, TN 37701 (Online Only)
We are naturally designed to thrive. How do we move toward greater wholeness? I utilize principles and techniques from internal family systems theory, emotion focused therapy, cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, and EMDR, with the inclusion of faith-based components (at the client's request). I would love to meet you, hear your story, and help you move toward greater wholeness.
We are naturally designed to thrive. How do we move toward greater wholeness? I utilize principles and techniques from internal family systems theory, emotion focused therapy, cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, and EMDR, with the inclusion of faith-based components (at the client's request). I would love to meet you, hear your story, and help you move toward greater wholeness.
![Photo of Shannon McBride, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5caf3fac-cd6f-4c08-9ee1-cd6fbc8aefba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701 (Online Only)
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Meagan Green, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2651986a-e510-404b-b880-567fea16a8ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Les Brown once said, "I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel, but we are well equipped for it if only we tap into our talents and gifts and allow them to blossom." As we navigate life, it can often feel like we are doing this alone and can feel overwhelmed by the hard things, which can impact how we see ourselves (self-esteem, anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, etc.), our relationships (conflict or co-dependency), and the world. The truth is, though, we don't actually have to do any of it alone!
Les Brown once said, "I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel, but we are well equipped for it if only we tap into our talents and gifts and allow them to blossom." As we navigate life, it can often feel like we are doing this alone and can feel overwhelmed by the hard things, which can impact how we see ourselves (self-esteem, anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, etc.), our relationships (conflict or co-dependency), and the world. The truth is, though, we don't actually have to do any of it alone!
![Photo of Stephanie McClanahan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d3b9744-468a-4e87-a173-53cb661757d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
![Photo of Angela Goins, LPC-, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc87f1e-d550-4ed7-84cc-418dae375de1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Goins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients and would love to talk more about how I can help you with whatever challenges you are facing. Life can be tough but having someone who is trained to help you navigate all of life’s twists and turns is invaluable. Whether you are struggling with seemingly small issues or larger life changing issues-if it matters to YOU it matters to ME.
I am accepting new clients and would love to talk more about how I can help you with whatever challenges you are facing. Life can be tough but having someone who is trained to help you navigate all of life’s twists and turns is invaluable. Whether you are struggling with seemingly small issues or larger life changing issues-if it matters to YOU it matters to ME.
![Photo of Meghan O'Nyon, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30b56fc0-7d83-4364-85e2-d0c7b5c6fac0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan O'Nyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
Not accepting new clients
You look around and ask yourself “Is this really my life right now?” Some days are okay, some are uncomfortable, and others are intolerable. In the tough moments, the things you've tried before don't seem to work. Treading water was fine for a while, but you’re ready to swim. Maybe someone you cared about died. Maybe that inner critic voice is louder or more persistent than it has been before. Maybe your child’s thoughts and feelings are too big for them to handle.
You look around and ask yourself “Is this really my life right now?” Some days are okay, some are uncomfortable, and others are intolerable. In the tough moments, the things you've tried before don't seem to work. Treading water was fine for a while, but you’re ready to swim. Maybe someone you cared about died. Maybe that inner critic voice is louder or more persistent than it has been before. Maybe your child’s thoughts and feelings are too big for them to handle.
![Photo of Vickie Starkey, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e09942f5-ba78-4e59-8d10-b3def697cc84/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vickie Starkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Need to talk about the dark stuff, need a life changing experience? Safe places to talk are hard to find and even if you do, you're still afraid. Some people feel out of control, like you are spiraling out of control.Painful past experiences don't have to rise to trauma to haunt us, but there is trauma too. We have secret thoughts that discourage us and make us feel hopeless and alone. Relationships fail, sometimes you find yourself in a one sided relationship where you wear yourself out trying to survive but just can't. Using drugs, alcohol or food to cope is no longer working. I hear you, let's talk about the dark stuff and heal
Need to talk about the dark stuff, need a life changing experience? Safe places to talk are hard to find and even if you do, you're still afraid. Some people feel out of control, like you are spiraling out of control.Painful past experiences don't have to rise to trauma to haunt us, but there is trauma too. We have secret thoughts that discourage us and make us feel hopeless and alone. Relationships fail, sometimes you find yourself in a one sided relationship where you wear yourself out trying to survive but just can't. Using drugs, alcohol or food to cope is no longer working. I hear you, let's talk about the dark stuff and heal
See more therapy options for Alcoa
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Alcoa, TN
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Alcoa, TN who prioritize treating:
73% | Anxiety |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Depression |
60% | Stress |
53% | Addiction |
53% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
63% | Optum |
How Therapists in Alcoa, TN see their clients
87% | In Person and Online | |
13% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Alcoa?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.