Therapists in Iowa City, IA

Photo of Gail Garwood, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Gail Garwood
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Does it feel like life is moving along — you’re getting by on the day to day —but something is missing. Some struggle to make things better but don’t always have an idea of how. Maybe you don’t get along with important people in your life, your stress levels feel suffocating, or you are going through a life transition and feel lost. You want to feel less emotional or be better at connecting with others. You want to be able to think your way through difficult situations. You want to make choices that align you with your goals. Here’s the good news: if you recognize that you feel stagnated, you are on the brink of change.
Does it feel like life is moving along — you’re getting by on the day to day —but something is missing. Some struggle to make things better but don’t always have an idea of how. Maybe you don’t get along with important people in your life, your stress levels feel suffocating, or you are going through a life transition and feel lost. You want to feel less emotional or be better at connecting with others. You want to be able to think your way through difficult situations. You want to make choices that align you with your goals. Here’s the good news: if you recognize that you feel stagnated, you are on the brink of change.
(319) 774-4306 View (319) 774-4306
Photo of Sharon Okerberg - Okerberg & Associates - Counseling & Coaching, LMHC, Counselor
Okerberg & Associates - Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Our distinct hands-on experience-based approach is designed to empower clients to analyze their situations, make connections, and find their own solutions through personal and physical experiences. It is effective because it embraces the philosophy that humans learn best by doing. Clients have reported that they have been able to change and grow more effectively and quickly than through traditional approaches.
Our distinct hands-on experience-based approach is designed to empower clients to analyze their situations, make connections, and find their own solutions through personal and physical experiences. It is effective because it embraces the philosophy that humans learn best by doing. Clients have reported that they have been able to change and grow more effectively and quickly than through traditional approaches.
(319) 528-5140 View (319) 528-5140
Photo of John Michael Cilek, MA, tLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Michael Cilek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Now accepting new clients (UI Gradcare, SHIP, UIChoice) - near campus in Northside of Iowa City & on bus routes > For so many of us, life can be overwhelming, disorienting, and difficult. In working with you, my hope is to have an opportunity to slow down, to be curious, and to uncover deeper meaning and connections within ourselves and in relating to others. Your particular knowledge, challenges, experiences, and expertise will be listened to carefully and sensitively responded to with transparency, kindness, and compassion. It is my commitment to greet you in each session with trust, a calm presence, and unconditional hospitality.
Now accepting new clients (UI Gradcare, SHIP, UIChoice) - near campus in Northside of Iowa City & on bus routes > For so many of us, life can be overwhelming, disorienting, and difficult. In working with you, my hope is to have an opportunity to slow down, to be curious, and to uncover deeper meaning and connections within ourselves and in relating to others. Your particular knowledge, challenges, experiences, and expertise will be listened to carefully and sensitively responded to with transparency, kindness, and compassion. It is my commitment to greet you in each session with trust, a calm presence, and unconditional hospitality.
(319) 670-2942 View (319) 670-2942
Photo of Jill Johnson, LMHC, IADC, SAP, Counselor
Jill Johnson
Counselor, LMHC, IADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I enjoy working with individuals ready to start their journey with therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment. My approach is eclectic, utilizing a collaborative approach to help foster positive life changes that improve quality of life. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, work and family stressors, communication difficulties, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, substance use, gambling, co-occurring disorders, and adjustment to disability.
I enjoy working with individuals ready to start their journey with therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment. My approach is eclectic, utilizing a collaborative approach to help foster positive life changes that improve quality of life. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, work and family stressors, communication difficulties, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, substance use, gambling, co-occurring disorders, and adjustment to disability.
(319) 820-0078 View (319) 820-0078
Photo of Karen A Nelson, PhD, Psychologist
Karen A Nelson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Can't sleep? Trapped in anxious rumination? Misplaced your joy? I specialize in treating insomnia, anxiety, panic and OCD in adults and high school age teens. Clients learn skills and enhance their confidence within a validating Behavioral Therapy framework. Clients co-create weekly behavioral experiments and track their mood, body responses. Therapy is time-limited and problem-focused.
Can't sleep? Trapped in anxious rumination? Misplaced your joy? I specialize in treating insomnia, anxiety, panic and OCD in adults and high school age teens. Clients learn skills and enhance their confidence within a validating Behavioral Therapy framework. Clients co-create weekly behavioral experiments and track their mood, body responses. Therapy is time-limited and problem-focused.
(319) 214-8740 View (319) 214-8740
Photo of Cody Graham, MA, T-LMHC, Counselor
Cody Graham
Counselor, MA, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Availability starting August 1st - My approach to therapy is grounded in person-centered principles which means that I believe in the potential of all individuals for growth, healing, and change. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I work collaboratively with clients to uncover their strengths, build self-understanding, and develop the skills necessary to lead empowered and fulfilling lives. I have experience working with adults on a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and college and career concerns.
Availability starting August 1st - My approach to therapy is grounded in person-centered principles which means that I believe in the potential of all individuals for growth, healing, and change. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I work collaboratively with clients to uncover their strengths, build self-understanding, and develop the skills necessary to lead empowered and fulfilling lives. I have experience working with adults on a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and college and career concerns.
(319) 308-5903 View (319) 308-5903
Photo of Grant Alan Brown, MA, tLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grant Alan Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
There are more ways to live than we can imagine! Let’s find new ways of living, together, so that you can get back to savoring the many joys and sorrows of the carnival of life.
There are more ways to live than we can imagine! Let’s find new ways of living, together, so that you can get back to savoring the many joys and sorrows of the carnival of life.
(319) 559-4943 View (319) 559-4943
Photo of Katherine Nydam Olivier, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Nydam Olivier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246
Not accepting new clients
EXCLUSIVELY TELEHEALTH through at least 12/31/20; not currently accepting new clients. I have helped individuals and couples with problems such as relationship problems, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, preoccupations with food and weight, substance abuse disorders, gender dysphoria, and recovery from trauma. I prefer to use a narrative approach in my clinical work, though I welcome and encourage client feedback and incorporate tools and ideas from a variety of practice models to help meet clients' needs. Narrative therapy is based on the idea that "the person is never the problem, the problem is the problem."
EXCLUSIVELY TELEHEALTH through at least 12/31/20; not currently accepting new clients. I have helped individuals and couples with problems such as relationship problems, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, preoccupations with food and weight, substance abuse disorders, gender dysphoria, and recovery from trauma. I prefer to use a narrative approach in my clinical work, though I welcome and encourage client feedback and incorporate tools and ideas from a variety of practice models to help meet clients' needs. Narrative therapy is based on the idea that "the person is never the problem, the problem is the problem."
(319) 313-5081 View (319) 313-5081
Photo of Chris Loeckle, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Loeckle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246
I have a very engaging and relaxed approach to therapy. Clients often report that they appreciate my authentic style and sense of humor. In any case, the process of therapy begins and is sustained as the client feels heard and understood and can begin to feel comfortable. I come to this work with a certain reverence for what is dignified, courageous, and creative in each of us which over time has informed my life both personally and in my work in supporting others. I rely on no particular therapy framework or "treatment modality" but nonetheless bring a pretty big box of tools to the table.
I have a very engaging and relaxed approach to therapy. Clients often report that they appreciate my authentic style and sense of humor. In any case, the process of therapy begins and is sustained as the client feels heard and understood and can begin to feel comfortable. I come to this work with a certain reverence for what is dignified, courageous, and creative in each of us which over time has informed my life both personally and in my work in supporting others. I rely on no particular therapy framework or "treatment modality" but nonetheless bring a pretty big box of tools to the table.
(319) 253-2691 View (319) 253-2691
Photo of Stephanie De Roo, LMHC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Stephanie De Roo
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Working through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and other mental health concerns can be difficult and intimidating to do alone. Therapy can be a helpful tool if you are feeling stuck and looking for a change. I work to provide non-judgmental insight, while recognizing that each client is their expert of their own experiences.
Welcome! Working through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and other mental health concerns can be difficult and intimidating to do alone. Therapy can be a helpful tool if you are feeling stuck and looking for a change. I work to provide non-judgmental insight, while recognizing that each client is their expert of their own experiences.
(319) 209-9349 View (319) 209-9349
Photo of Marshall McElhinney, MA, LMFT, EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marshall McElhinney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to understand your own story and break free from the traps that hold us back from change. You are brave because you are here. One quote that resonates with me is from Carl Whitaker, who once wrote, “Until you break with your patterns, the rut continues to deepen. Life goes on, but living dies”. Throughout my career, I have witnessed how being unheard and misunderstood creates a sense of feeling judgment and shame. I want to help by creating a space for healing and advancement by honoring that those experiences are a source of pain.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to understand your own story and break free from the traps that hold us back from change. You are brave because you are here. One quote that resonates with me is from Carl Whitaker, who once wrote, “Until you break with your patterns, the rut continues to deepen. Life goes on, but living dies”. Throughout my career, I have witnessed how being unheard and misunderstood creates a sense of feeling judgment and shame. I want to help by creating a space for healing and advancement by honoring that those experiences are a source of pain.
(319) 220-5753 View (319) 220-5753
Photo of Melissa Moreland, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Moreland
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240  (Online Only)
Are you ready for a change, but feeling overwhelmed, tired and anxious? Intuitive holistic therapy can help you navigate anxiety, negative self-talk, or depression and begin to build a life of inner connection and meaning. I am moved by my clients’ stories and seeing them grow into their potential. With 15 years of experience working in personal growth development, I feel honored to be a companion on the journey of change—someone who offers a safe and non-judgmental environment in which to explore collaborative goals.
Are you ready for a change, but feeling overwhelmed, tired and anxious? Intuitive holistic therapy can help you navigate anxiety, negative self-talk, or depression and begin to build a life of inner connection and meaning. I am moved by my clients’ stories and seeing them grow into their potential. With 15 years of experience working in personal growth development, I feel honored to be a companion on the journey of change—someone who offers a safe and non-judgmental environment in which to explore collaborative goals.
(319) 519-4301 View (319) 519-4301
Photo of Sally H Darley, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally H Darley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
My ideal client is commited to personal growth. I believe we are all fragile creatures, yet capable of resilience. We experience painful thought/feeling states and then we weave stories to explain them. Narrative Therapy has been a natural fit for me: the client defines the goals, we examine the details of self-limiting stories, including family and cultural "scripts." We work to co-create stories about identity that have more space for possibilities and emotional resilience.
My ideal client is commited to personal growth. I believe we are all fragile creatures, yet capable of resilience. We experience painful thought/feeling states and then we weave stories to explain them. Narrative Therapy has been a natural fit for me: the client defines the goals, we examine the details of self-limiting stories, including family and cultural "scripts." We work to co-create stories about identity that have more space for possibilities and emotional resilience.
(319) 214-7551 View (319) 214-7551
Photo of Nikki Julian - Julian and Associates Psychotherapy Services PC, PhD, LMHC, ACS, Counselor
Julian and Associates Psychotherapy Services PC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Dr. Julian has been in mental health practice since 2004 and is dedicated to the empowerment of her clients. She has specialty training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy from EMDRIA and Sex Therapy from the Florida Sex Therapy Institute.
Dr. Julian has been in mental health practice since 2004 and is dedicated to the empowerment of her clients. She has specialty training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy from EMDRIA and Sex Therapy from the Florida Sex Therapy Institute.
(319) 250-4836 View (319) 250-4836
Photo of Laura Cain-Shreiner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Cain-Shreiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
It can be incredibly intimidating and scary to seek out therapy when struggling with mental health. I recognize that reaching out to start therapy takes a certain degree of courage and I commend you on taking these steps towards healing. I am an LMSW and I am currently working towards my independent clinical license. I am enjoy connecting with adult and adolescents who are navigating one or more of the following experiences: ongoing management of depression, anxiety, trauma history, adjusting to life transitions, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidal ideation, women's issues, ADHD, and issues pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ community.
It can be incredibly intimidating and scary to seek out therapy when struggling with mental health. I recognize that reaching out to start therapy takes a certain degree of courage and I commend you on taking these steps towards healing. I am an LMSW and I am currently working towards my independent clinical license. I am enjoy connecting with adult and adolescents who are navigating one or more of the following experiences: ongoing management of depression, anxiety, trauma history, adjusting to life transitions, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidal ideation, women's issues, ADHD, and issues pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ community.
(319) 419-4733 View (319) 419-4733
Photo of Megan Matthews, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Not accepting new clients
My work is to support you in creating a life you love with therapy sessions designed to deepen your connection with your own innate wisdom and to assist you in transcending barriers to living with purpose and joy. My practice is based on the belief that within each individual lies the seeds of personal transformation. Our work together will focus on supporting you in discovering and developing your own power to create a life that works for YOU. Within this framework I view my role as one of facilitating this process of growth and transformation, inspiring and encouraging you as you discover your own unique path.
My work is to support you in creating a life you love with therapy sessions designed to deepen your connection with your own innate wisdom and to assist you in transcending barriers to living with purpose and joy. My practice is based on the belief that within each individual lies the seeds of personal transformation. Our work together will focus on supporting you in discovering and developing your own power to create a life that works for YOU. Within this framework I view my role as one of facilitating this process of growth and transformation, inspiring and encouraging you as you discover your own unique path.
(319) 271-6823 View (319) 271-6823
Photo of Kelson Warner, tLMHC, Counselor
Kelson Warner
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
(319) 988-2878 x3 View (319) 988-2878 x3
Photo of Alyssa Dlouhy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Dlouhy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245  (Online Only)
As you begin your therapy journey, you may feel excited, hopeful, nervous, terrified, and/or unsure what to expect. This is all normal! I am so proud of you for taking the first step. Now that you are here, I would love to continue to get to know your true authentic self, all of your quicks, interests, strengths and struggles as you begin this new adventure!
As you begin your therapy journey, you may feel excited, hopeful, nervous, terrified, and/or unsure what to expect. This is all normal! I am so proud of you for taking the first step. Now that you are here, I would love to continue to get to know your true authentic self, all of your quicks, interests, strengths and struggles as you begin this new adventure!
(319) 540-3712 View (319) 540-3712
Photo of Adina Joy Levitt, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adina Joy Levitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52246
As a holistic psychotherapist, my practice focuses on the whole person- mind, body, and spirit. Together, we will navigate the labyrinth of your life’s journey, through the constant flow of ups and downs that often feels unpredictable & overwhelming. I will offer you a safe and grounded space to work on the challenges that may be encircling you. In addition to my LMSW, I also have extensive training in earth-based spirituality. Areas of focus: trauma, PTSD, stress, anxiety, grief, medically unexplained pain, & spirituality. I use an integrated therapeutic approach: Narrative, Somatic, EMDR, ACT, Solution-Focused, & Experiential.
As a holistic psychotherapist, my practice focuses on the whole person- mind, body, and spirit. Together, we will navigate the labyrinth of your life’s journey, through the constant flow of ups and downs that often feels unpredictable & overwhelming. I will offer you a safe and grounded space to work on the challenges that may be encircling you. In addition to my LMSW, I also have extensive training in earth-based spirituality. Areas of focus: trauma, PTSD, stress, anxiety, grief, medically unexplained pain, & spirituality. I use an integrated therapeutic approach: Narrative, Somatic, EMDR, ACT, Solution-Focused, & Experiential.
(319) 255-2812 View (319) 255-2812
Photo of Celia Dunnington, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celia Dunnington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
Celia (She/Her) has been providing psychotherapy for over 30 years, and loves the work more than ever. She is ready to support your growth, help you discover your strengths, and help you make sense of the sorrow and confusion that trouble you. Your needs and feelings are the keys to your future well-being. In therapy you will unfold a new relationship to those feelings and needs, to understand what you have been trying to tell yourself, .You will discover how you can approach difficult situations with self-knowledge, self-love and skillful tenacity. It will get better. It might get amazing. Give it a chance.
Celia (She/Her) has been providing psychotherapy for over 30 years, and loves the work more than ever. She is ready to support your growth, help you discover your strengths, and help you make sense of the sorrow and confusion that trouble you. Your needs and feelings are the keys to your future well-being. In therapy you will unfold a new relationship to those feelings and needs, to understand what you have been trying to tell yourself, .You will discover how you can approach difficult situations with self-knowledge, self-love and skillful tenacity. It will get better. It might get amazing. Give it a chance.
(319) 462-7578 View (319) 462-7578
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Iowa City, IA

300+

Average cost per session

$158

Therapists in Iowa City, IA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
70% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Wellmark BCBS
46% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Iowa City, IA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Iowa City?

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.