Therapists in East Greenwich, RI

Photo of Erin Sepe, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Erin Sepe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Erin is a psychotherapist, mom and a consultant with a reputation for promoting healthy interpersonal relationships, resolving conflict and helping others communicate effectively She provides clients with high standards of counseling and supports them in achieving the skills necessary to improve their emotional well being. Erin incorporates the tenets of cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy and has special interest in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, and divorce. Teaching others to identify how thoughts, emotions and behaviors shape who we are and how others perceive us is a central area of Erin's focus.
Erin is a psychotherapist, mom and a consultant with a reputation for promoting healthy interpersonal relationships, resolving conflict and helping others communicate effectively She provides clients with high standards of counseling and supports them in achieving the skills necessary to improve their emotional well being. Erin incorporates the tenets of cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy and has special interest in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, and divorce. Teaching others to identify how thoughts, emotions and behaviors shape who we are and how others perceive us is a central area of Erin's focus.
(401) 354-1151 View (401) 354-1151
Photo of Kristen Bierwirth, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristen Bierwirth
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Dr. Kristen P. Bierwirth is a nationally certified School Psychologist practicing since 2002 and earned her PhD from Fordham University in 2006. Dr. Bierwirth offers comprehensive psychological testing focused on the identification of learning and behavioral/emotional problems and provides consultation with school districts for special education/504 Plan classification. Outside of work, Dr. Bierwirth enjoys spending time with her husband, twins, and dog, traveling the country and the world, swimming, running/hiking, and yoga.
Dr. Kristen P. Bierwirth is a nationally certified School Psychologist practicing since 2002 and earned her PhD from Fordham University in 2006. Dr. Bierwirth offers comprehensive psychological testing focused on the identification of learning and behavioral/emotional problems and provides consultation with school districts for special education/504 Plan classification. Outside of work, Dr. Bierwirth enjoys spending time with her husband, twins, and dog, traveling the country and the world, swimming, running/hiking, and yoga.
(401) 498-7905 View (401) 498-7905
Photo of Danielle Gallagher, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Danielle Gallagher
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Not accepting new clients
Congratulations on taking the first step in your journey of social and emotional health and wellness. I serve children, adolescents, adults and families who are in need of support. Our work together can be focused on strengthening relationships, resolving conflict, life transitions, parenting and adoption. My clients want to achieve social and emotional growth, health and happiness.
Congratulations on taking the first step in your journey of social and emotional health and wellness. I serve children, adolescents, adults and families who are in need of support. Our work together can be focused on strengthening relationships, resolving conflict, life transitions, parenting and adoption. My clients want to achieve social and emotional growth, health and happiness.
(401) 205-0161 View (401) 205-0161
Photo of Paul M Hoffman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul M Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I have been a therapist and life coach for more than 40 years. In an age of specialization, I believe that my experience with all ages and all problems gives me a unique perspective on the human condition. There is no textbook on YOU, and I strive to understand each client as an individual with his/her/their own unique life experiences. I've been told that I have a warm, engaging, personal style that makes for a relaxed, comfortable therapeutic environment. New clients can be seen within 24 hours.
I have been a therapist and life coach for more than 40 years. In an age of specialization, I believe that my experience with all ages and all problems gives me a unique perspective on the human condition. There is no textbook on YOU, and I strive to understand each client as an individual with his/her/their own unique life experiences. I've been told that I have a warm, engaging, personal style that makes for a relaxed, comfortable therapeutic environment. New clients can be seen within 24 hours.
(401) 218-0998 View (401) 218-0998
Photo of Meredith F Ingebretsen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith F Ingebretsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Not accepting new clients
Being patient, non-judgmental and direct, defines my approach as a therapist. A strong background in anxiety and trauma helps me to connect with adults who are struggling to overcome their difficult pasts and/or want to build a more peaceful future. I help clients use their voice, build self-confidence and satisfaction at work, home and in the community by pulling from multiple theories and with a strong emphasis on assertive communication and psycho-education.
Being patient, non-judgmental and direct, defines my approach as a therapist. A strong background in anxiety and trauma helps me to connect with adults who are struggling to overcome their difficult pasts and/or want to build a more peaceful future. I help clients use their voice, build self-confidence and satisfaction at work, home and in the community by pulling from multiple theories and with a strong emphasis on assertive communication and psycho-education.
(401) 475-9979 View (401) 475-9979
Photo of Mary Onungwe, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Onungwe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Mary Onungwe, PhD, LMHC graduated from North Dakota State University in 2015. Areas of specialization include mental health, substance use disorders and career guidance. Integrated approach to counseling practices are utilized in navigating sessions with clients and their families. Hobbies include traveling, walking and fellowshipping with friends/family members.
Mary Onungwe, PhD, LMHC graduated from North Dakota State University in 2015. Areas of specialization include mental health, substance use disorders and career guidance. Integrated approach to counseling practices are utilized in navigating sessions with clients and their families. Hobbies include traveling, walking and fellowshipping with friends/family members.
(401) 812-2549 View (401) 812-2549
Photo of Tara Bogs - Elevate Psychological Services, LLC, Tara , Bogs, PhD, CST, LCDP, Psychologist
Elevate Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, Tara , Bogs, PhD, CST, LCDP
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Overwhelmed? Feeling out of control? Creating calm in this chaotic world can be challenging. Moving through transitions with grace is achievable. We can explore and develop tools to manage anxiety and create a sense of safety with the goal to sustain your joy, personally and within your relationships. Exploring the natural course of a partnership and relationships through therapy can help. Re-connection to self and others is achievable. Couple and individual therapy. Short term solution focused therapy in a safe, relaxed environment aligned with your goals may help. Open, closed, poly, kink, LGBTQIA+ welcome.
Overwhelmed? Feeling out of control? Creating calm in this chaotic world can be challenging. Moving through transitions with grace is achievable. We can explore and develop tools to manage anxiety and create a sense of safety with the goal to sustain your joy, personally and within your relationships. Exploring the natural course of a partnership and relationships through therapy can help. Re-connection to self and others is achievable. Couple and individual therapy. Short term solution focused therapy in a safe, relaxed environment aligned with your goals may help. Open, closed, poly, kink, LGBTQIA+ welcome.
(401) 415-7196 View (401) 415-7196
Photo of Jessica Britto, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Britto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
My passion is in helping individual's reach their highest potential through living a healthy lifestyle. I believe that therapy is not only beneficial for self health but it also creates this foundation that brings healing to the mind, body and soul. My past experience as a behavioral specialist at an elementary school for several years prior to pursuing a degree as a marriage and family therapist all taught me how to utilize the best evidence based practices in real life settings. As a mom and wife I understand the challenges that families endure and I can help with couples counseling, families, individual and group sessions.
My passion is in helping individual's reach their highest potential through living a healthy lifestyle. I believe that therapy is not only beneficial for self health but it also creates this foundation that brings healing to the mind, body and soul. My past experience as a behavioral specialist at an elementary school for several years prior to pursuing a degree as a marriage and family therapist all taught me how to utilize the best evidence based practices in real life settings. As a mom and wife I understand the challenges that families endure and I can help with couples counseling, families, individual and group sessions.
(401) 812-3243 View (401) 812-3243
Photo of Caterina Czerepica, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caterina Czerepica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Caterina Czerepica is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2016. Caterina utilizes a strengthsbased approach in therapy to empower patients, promote positivity, and increase awareness of resiliency. She uses a combination of evidencebased treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and FamilyBased Treatment (FBT) to treat eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression. During therapy, patients will learn a variety of strategies and coping skills that will help them to navigate challenges.
Caterina Czerepica is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2016. Caterina utilizes a strengthsbased approach in therapy to empower patients, promote positivity, and increase awareness of resiliency. She uses a combination of evidencebased treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and FamilyBased Treatment (FBT) to treat eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression. During therapy, patients will learn a variety of strategies and coping skills that will help them to navigate challenges.
(401) 200-3379 View (401) 200-3379
Photo of Melanie Clifford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Clifford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
A "Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker" who specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have over 15 years experience working in community mental health and substance abuse agencies. I have been in private practice for over 10 years. My specialties include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, social skills, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, conflict resolution and stress management.
A "Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker" who specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have over 15 years experience working in community mental health and substance abuse agencies. I have been in private practice for over 10 years. My specialties include depression, anxiety/panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, social skills, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, conflict resolution and stress management.
(401) 293-2271 View (401) 293-2271
Photo of Jessica Costigan, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Costigan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Jessica Costigan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2015. Jessica recognizes that every client is in a different place in life, therefore she likes to meet a client where they are at and help give them the tools they need to get where they want to be. Life is not easy but having the support and guidance of a trained professional can make all the difference! Jessica has experience in many different areas as well as being a good listener; she thinks this helps her support her clients in identifying what their challenges are and establishing a clear path to work through them.
Jessica Costigan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2015. Jessica recognizes that every client is in a different place in life, therefore she likes to meet a client where they are at and help give them the tools they need to get where they want to be. Life is not easy but having the support and guidance of a trained professional can make all the difference! Jessica has experience in many different areas as well as being a good listener; she thinks this helps her support her clients in identifying what their challenges are and establishing a clear path to work through them.
(401) 496-9012 View (401) 496-9012
Photo of Peter Gray, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818  (Online Only)
Now accepting adult, young adult, and adolescent clients for online therapy, I provide compassionate and personalized guidance for those dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship and family challenges, and substance use. I believe in creating a collaborative and trusting partnership where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. Together, you’ll engage in honest, focused conversations that cut through the noise, helping you to understand what truly matters and develop practical strategies for moving forward. In evening sessions, I offers a supportive space where you can tackle difficult emotions head-on,
Now accepting adult, young adult, and adolescent clients for online therapy, I provide compassionate and personalized guidance for those dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship and family challenges, and substance use. I believe in creating a collaborative and trusting partnership where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. Together, you’ll engage in honest, focused conversations that cut through the noise, helping you to understand what truly matters and develop practical strategies for moving forward. In evening sessions, I offers a supportive space where you can tackle difficult emotions head-on,
(401) 307-5314 View (401) 307-5314
Photo of Emilie Davis - Rhode Island Family Center, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhode Island Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Thank you for getting to know my counseling practice at The Family Institute of RI. I have worked for over thirty years with individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, Anxiety, Depression and other mental health issues. I have spent much of my practice working with children ages 3-12, teens, and adults. I have extensive knowledge and experience helping individuals and families involved in the family court system. And I am committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles that interfere with positive change and growth. I also work with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues,as well as domestic abuse and anger management.
Thank you for getting to know my counseling practice at The Family Institute of RI. I have worked for over thirty years with individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, Anxiety, Depression and other mental health issues. I have spent much of my practice working with children ages 3-12, teens, and adults. I have extensive knowledge and experience helping individuals and families involved in the family court system. And I am committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles that interfere with positive change and growth. I also work with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues,as well as domestic abuse and anger management.
(401) 519-4295 View (401) 519-4295
Photo of Hannah Kane, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hannah Kane
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Hannah Kane is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist- Associate in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2021. Hannah received her BA in Psychology from Framingham State University in 2019. She graduated with her MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from The University of Rhode Island in 2021. Hannah has experience conducting therapy sessions with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults. She works with clients to cope with mental illnesses, process life transitions, and to improve family as well as other interpersonal relationships.
Hannah Kane is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist- Associate in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2021. Hannah received her BA in Psychology from Framingham State University in 2019. She graduated with her MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from The University of Rhode Island in 2021. Hannah has experience conducting therapy sessions with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults. She works with clients to cope with mental illnesses, process life transitions, and to improve family as well as other interpersonal relationships.
(401) 388-6602 View (401) 388-6602
Photo of Alexandra Szabo, LMHC, Counselor
Alexandra Szabo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Not accepting new clients
I am a Rhode Island and Massachusetts Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over fifteen years of experience. I have extensive training servicing all populations however specializes in the treatment of at-risk adolescents and their families through both individual and family based therapy.
I am a Rhode Island and Massachusetts Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over fifteen years of experience. I have extensive training servicing all populations however specializes in the treatment of at-risk adolescents and their families through both individual and family based therapy.
(401) 200-4162 View (401) 200-4162
Photo of Devin Vietri, MA, LMHC, RDT, Counselor
Devin Vietri
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Deciding it is time to seek a therapist is a courageous act of self- love. Maybe you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed with life’s transitions. Maybe you want to understand past trauma or the impact of your attachment style on your current relationships. Whatever brings you here, together we will identify your goals, needs and strengths to help you deepen your self-understanding and heal. As a Drama Therapist, clients have the option to engage in a creative approach to therapy. The creative process, story telling, artwork, and discussion allow space to explore emotions, behaviors and sense of self.
Deciding it is time to seek a therapist is a courageous act of self- love. Maybe you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed with life’s transitions. Maybe you want to understand past trauma or the impact of your attachment style on your current relationships. Whatever brings you here, together we will identify your goals, needs and strengths to help you deepen your self-understanding and heal. As a Drama Therapist, clients have the option to engage in a creative approach to therapy. The creative process, story telling, artwork, and discussion allow space to explore emotions, behaviors and sense of self.
(401) 756-1602 View (401) 756-1602
Photo of Tammy L. Garceau, MSW, LICSW, CIMI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy L. Garceau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CIMI
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
It is possible to reduce stress, to learn new skills, and to live a healthier and happier life. My mission is to provide supportive, strength-based counseling services to individuals and families. I believe in developing positive, trusting, and productive counseling relationships with my clients, as they strive to reach their personal goals. Working together with individuals and families, I assist clients by identifying personal and community resources that will assist clients in obtaining optimal wellness. I welcome and offer collaboration with primary physicians, school personnel, and other care providers in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs of each individual.
It is possible to reduce stress, to learn new skills, and to live a healthier and happier life. My mission is to provide supportive, strength-based counseling services to individuals and families. I believe in developing positive, trusting, and productive counseling relationships with my clients, as they strive to reach their personal goals. Working together with individuals and families, I assist clients by identifying personal and community resources that will assist clients in obtaining optimal wellness. I welcome and offer collaboration with primary physicians, school personnel, and other care providers in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs of each individual.
(401) 320-4274 View (401) 320-4274
Kipp Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Licensed in 2009, I have many years of experience working with diverse populations of all ages within multiple settings. From these experiences has developed a style of therapy which is goal oriented, practical, and direct. I have experience working with children, adults, and families. I have extensive history in working with the families of individuals with disabilities.
Licensed in 2009, I have many years of experience working with diverse populations of all ages within multiple settings. From these experiences has developed a style of therapy which is goal oriented, practical, and direct. I have experience working with children, adults, and families. I have extensive history in working with the families of individuals with disabilities.
(401) 208-2091 View (401) 208-2091
Photo of Michelle Solitro, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Solitro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have 16+ years experience working in schools, community mental health, a hospital and a group private practice providing home based, outpatient and day treatment therapy. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks, depression, self-injurious behavior, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, attention and behavioral problems, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting skills, social skills, trauma, anger management, low self esteem and relationship difficulties.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have 16+ years experience working in schools, community mental health, a hospital and a group private practice providing home based, outpatient and day treatment therapy. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks, depression, self-injurious behavior, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, attention and behavioral problems, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting skills, social skills, trauma, anger management, low self esteem and relationship difficulties.
(401) 386-5392 View (401) 386-5392
Photo of Samantha Barker, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Barker
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Are you struggling with saying no? Do you find it difficult to set and maintain boundaries with people in your life? You may be experiencing increased anxiety around these situations, you may feel like you can't assert yourself because you worry how others will react. Maybe you are having a tough time navigating life changes or are finding that you are struggling in your day to day life.
Are you struggling with saying no? Do you find it difficult to set and maintain boundaries with people in your life? You may be experiencing increased anxiety around these situations, you may feel like you can't assert yourself because you worry how others will react. Maybe you are having a tough time navigating life changes or are finding that you are struggling in your day to day life.
(401) 437-4069 View (401) 437-4069

See more therapy options for East Greenwich

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in East Greenwich, RI

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in East Greenwich, RI who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
65% Life Transitions
64% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
55% Optum

How Therapists in East Greenwich, RI see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in East Greenwich?

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.