Therapists in Belmont, NC

Photo of Leah Watts, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Belmont, NC
Leah Watts
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
My passion is working with couples confronting issues of infidelity, communication, sexual issues, & other areas of discord. I also have a specialty interest of working with individuals with trauma. To address these concerns my work comes from an attachment lens using Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy, Narrative Therapy, & other systemic therapies that may differ upon your individual needs. I look forward to being able to walk along side you in your journey of reclaiming your story and reconnecting to the important relationships in your life.
My passion is working with couples confronting issues of infidelity, communication, sexual issues, & other areas of discord. I also have a specialty interest of working with individuals with trauma. To address these concerns my work comes from an attachment lens using Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy, Narrative Therapy, & other systemic therapies that may differ upon your individual needs. I look forward to being able to walk along side you in your journey of reclaiming your story and reconnecting to the important relationships in your life.
(704) 457-2004 View (704) 457-2004
Photo of Montcross Counseling Center, Pastoral Counselor in Belmont, NC
Montcross Counseling Center
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, FBPPCA
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
Living and enjoying your life with greater degrees of wholeness, love, freedom and creativity is possible. But you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of relating to yourself and others. Maybe a traumatic event or life history keeps you frozen in time and in distress. Perhaps your sense of wonder and awe at being alive is diminished and you long for meaning. Maybe you find that you're living through a maze of symptoms like depression and anxiety. You wonder if it's safe enough to talk to someone and be heard in a non-judgmental way.
Living and enjoying your life with greater degrees of wholeness, love, freedom and creativity is possible. But you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of relating to yourself and others. Maybe a traumatic event or life history keeps you frozen in time and in distress. Perhaps your sense of wonder and awe at being alive is diminished and you long for meaning. Maybe you find that you're living through a maze of symptoms like depression and anxiety. You wonder if it's safe enough to talk to someone and be heard in a non-judgmental way.
(704) 327-3827 View (704) 327-3827
Photo of Claudette L Peck, Counselor in Belmont, NC
Claudette L Peck
Counselor, LCMHC, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
Most people get up everyday with the intention to do and feel their best. Clients typically come in to see me when something is getting in the way of allowing this to happen. Whether the obstacle is emotional, relational, behavioral, or motivational, I work interactively with my clients to understand the underlying problem and help them seek alternative methods or solutions toward reaching their goals. Change requires understanding, validation, and trust. I work very hard to establish these with every client I meet.
Most people get up everyday with the intention to do and feel their best. Clients typically come in to see me when something is getting in the way of allowing this to happen. Whether the obstacle is emotional, relational, behavioral, or motivational, I work interactively with my clients to understand the underlying problem and help them seek alternative methods or solutions toward reaching their goals. Change requires understanding, validation, and trust. I work very hard to establish these with every client I meet.
(603) 945-1159 View (603) 945-1159
Photo of Erin Phillips, Counselor in Belmont, NC
Erin Phillips
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
Our true selves can be clouded by anxious thoughts, trauma, and the stress of life, creating an internal disconnect. I enjoy working with individuals navigating disordered eating, anxiety, depression, and difficult transitions in life. Many of my clients feel like they have forgotten how to relax or enjoy themselves, despite achieving their goals. My goal is to help you restore what feels lost and quiet the relentless voice of self-criticism.
Our true selves can be clouded by anxious thoughts, trauma, and the stress of life, creating an internal disconnect. I enjoy working with individuals navigating disordered eating, anxiety, depression, and difficult transitions in life. Many of my clients feel like they have forgotten how to relax or enjoy themselves, despite achieving their goals. My goal is to help you restore what feels lost and quiet the relentless voice of self-criticism.
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Photo of Jacqueline Najafian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, NC
Jacqueline Najafian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
Choosing a therapist can be a scary and intimidating experience. It is important that you find a person that you and your family feel comfortable. I hope that I can be that person. The first step in therapy is to have a trusting a mutually resprectful relationship.
Choosing a therapist can be a scary and intimidating experience. It is important that you find a person that you and your family feel comfortable. I hope that I can be that person. The first step in therapy is to have a trusting a mutually resprectful relationship.
(704) 594-8042 View (704) 594-8042
Photo of Dr. Gregory S Phipps, Counselor in Belmont, NC
Dr. Gregory S Phipps
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
Now accepting new clients in-person and online. I serve and support individuals dealing with mental health concerns, developmental issues, and life transitions. I believe all individuals have inherent worth, seek meaning/purpose, and strive to be their best selves. My job is to work with you and help you empower yourself to understand and enact these principles. I am heavily strength-based, meaning I try to help you find your personal strengths and skills, so you can learn to manage life's many challenges well. I draw ideas and techniques from Adlerian Individual Psychology, CBT, expressive arts, and narrative therapy.
Now accepting new clients in-person and online. I serve and support individuals dealing with mental health concerns, developmental issues, and life transitions. I believe all individuals have inherent worth, seek meaning/purpose, and strive to be their best selves. My job is to work with you and help you empower yourself to understand and enact these principles. I am heavily strength-based, meaning I try to help you find your personal strengths and skills, so you can learn to manage life's many challenges well. I draw ideas and techniques from Adlerian Individual Psychology, CBT, expressive arts, and narrative therapy.
(336) 804-8326 View (336) 804-8326
Photo of Molly Halbrooks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, NC
Molly Halbrooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
In person sessions in the Charlotte area, telehealth across North Carolina and Georgia. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? I work with adults who have experienced traumatic events, are facing life transitions such as divorce, new parenting, and career changes; individuals struggling with anxiety; and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past experiences.
In person sessions in the Charlotte area, telehealth across North Carolina and Georgia. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? I work with adults who have experienced traumatic events, are facing life transitions such as divorce, new parenting, and career changes; individuals struggling with anxiety; and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past experiences.
(704) 397-4742 View (704) 397-4742
Photo of Shelton D Davis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Belmont, NC
Shelton D Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
At Serenity Pastoral Counseling, you will find a confidential space in which to share your story & reflect on your experiences. Serenity is not just about finding peace. It's about managing life’s challenges with a sense of purpose & preparing to face the future with confidence. We will address together your emotional health with an emphasis on you as a whole person. You may also choose to engage your spiritual concerns, an area in which I am specially trained with people of all faiths. What is pastoral counseling? Pastoral counseling is the integration of evidence-based psychological techniques with client-driven spirituality.
At Serenity Pastoral Counseling, you will find a confidential space in which to share your story & reflect on your experiences. Serenity is not just about finding peace. It's about managing life’s challenges with a sense of purpose & preparing to face the future with confidence. We will address together your emotional health with an emphasis on you as a whole person. You may also choose to engage your spiritual concerns, an area in which I am specially trained with people of all faiths. What is pastoral counseling? Pastoral counseling is the integration of evidence-based psychological techniques with client-driven spirituality.
(704) 800-3753 View (704) 800-3753
Photo of Allison Freeman, Counselor in Belmont, NC
Allison Freeman
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
In-person counseling in Belmont, NC + online. I work with adolescents, adults, and parents to help them understand & cope with intense emotions, transitions, & relational challenges. I begin by establishing a strong therapeutic bond built on trust & collaboration that feels safe and comfortable for all my clients. You will always have the opportunity to share any and all of your stories and lived experiences with me as your highly-skilled clinician who truly hears and understands her clients. Then, together, we will work to make sense of your experiences in a way that is healing and eye-opening, before moving into our change work.
In-person counseling in Belmont, NC + online. I work with adolescents, adults, and parents to help them understand & cope with intense emotions, transitions, & relational challenges. I begin by establishing a strong therapeutic bond built on trust & collaboration that feels safe and comfortable for all my clients. You will always have the opportunity to share any and all of your stories and lived experiences with me as your highly-skilled clinician who truly hears and understands her clients. Then, together, we will work to make sense of your experiences in a way that is healing and eye-opening, before moving into our change work.
(704) 325-6934 x701 View (704) 325-6934 x701
Photo of Kris Bryan Smetak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belmont, NC
Kris Bryan Smetak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
Are you tired of dealing with your anxiety? Has it gotten worse since COVID? Have you been feeling more depressed lately? Do you want to feel better and manage your feelings more effectively? Do you want more awareness and understanding in your relationships?
Are you tired of dealing with your anxiety? Has it gotten worse since COVID? Have you been feeling more depressed lately? Do you want to feel better and manage your feelings more effectively? Do you want more awareness and understanding in your relationships?
(704) 703-4900 View (704) 703-4900
Photo of Chris Holloman, Counselor in Belmont, NC
Chris Holloman
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, GCDF
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
I understand that it can be difficult to take the first step towards counseling. I’m here to help with what you are experiencing, and I welcome the opportunity to assist you with your needs. In my work, I strive authentically to help my clients to achieve their goals. I accept you where you are nonjudgmentally, work with you to identify practical strategies to overcome struggles you are encountering, and help you to gather tools needed to thrive in life. I’m happy to serve as a safe place to assist you in getting to the places where you’d like to go.
I understand that it can be difficult to take the first step towards counseling. I’m here to help with what you are experiencing, and I welcome the opportunity to assist you with your needs. In my work, I strive authentically to help my clients to achieve their goals. I accept you where you are nonjudgmentally, work with you to identify practical strategies to overcome struggles you are encountering, and help you to gather tools needed to thrive in life. I’m happy to serve as a safe place to assist you in getting to the places where you’d like to go.
(704) 459-5455 View (704) 459-5455
Photo of Emily Hunt-Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, NC
Emily Hunt-Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
Are you seeking a compassionate guide on your journey to self-discovery and healing? I can help. My journey in the field has been fueled by an innate passion for understanding the diverse complexity of the human experience. I am a firm believer in the transformative power of positive energy and I help my clients to find theirs! I pride myself on infusing this energy into every session, creating an atmosphere that radiates warmth, hope, and encouragement. I pride myself on providing a welcoming atmosphere without judgment. Every individual's story is unique and I look forward to joining you on your journey!
Are you seeking a compassionate guide on your journey to self-discovery and healing? I can help. My journey in the field has been fueled by an innate passion for understanding the diverse complexity of the human experience. I am a firm believer in the transformative power of positive energy and I help my clients to find theirs! I pride myself on infusing this energy into every session, creating an atmosphere that radiates warmth, hope, and encouragement. I pride myself on providing a welcoming atmosphere without judgment. Every individual's story is unique and I look forward to joining you on your journey!
(980) 372-7561 View (980) 372-7561
Photo of Womens Issues And Trauma Recovery Hollis Wilson, Counselor in Belmont, NC
Womens Issues And Trauma Recovery Hollis Wilson
Counselor, MACC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
I offer a holistic counseling approach focusing on women’s issues and utilize tools to help women find healing and wholeness in mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are looking for healing from childhood trauma or ways to find better balance in your life or decrease your anxiety, I am here to support you. As women we face unique challenges and at Womens Integrative Counseling we are trained and equipped to meet you exactly where you are at.
I offer a holistic counseling approach focusing on women’s issues and utilize tools to help women find healing and wholeness in mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are looking for healing from childhood trauma or ways to find better balance in your life or decrease your anxiety, I am here to support you. As women we face unique challenges and at Womens Integrative Counseling we are trained and equipped to meet you exactly where you are at.
(980) 553-2092 View (980) 553-2092
Photo of Amanda J Hall, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Belmont, NC
Amanda J Hall
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
I am passionate about empowering women of all ages to pursue health and healing while navigating the journey towards positive growth. Through my practice, I specialize in addressing various challenges including, but not limited to, women's issues, depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, low self-esteem, trauma, survivors of domestic violence, and grief.
I am passionate about empowering women of all ages to pursue health and healing while navigating the journey towards positive growth. Through my practice, I specialize in addressing various challenges including, but not limited to, women's issues, depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, low self-esteem, trauma, survivors of domestic violence, and grief.
(980) 446-2870 View (980) 446-2870
Photo of Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, NC
Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in private practice. Dr. Wilkie earned her doctoral degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple and Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her private practice full-time in the Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia area.
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in private practice. Dr. Wilkie earned her doctoral degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple and Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her private practice full-time in the Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia area.
(704) 327-6674 View (704) 327-6674
Photo of Holly Mackin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, NC
Holly Mackin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
Is your sex life causing issues between you and your partner? Would you benefit from better communication with the important people in your life? Are you experiencing a situation that has made it difficult to cope? Do you crave more intimacy and authenticity with others? I believe that anyone can benefit from support and a nonjudgmental perspective, to access the best version of themselves. I offer a high degree of respect for you, meet you where you are in your life, and work on what you consider to be important. Email me today to schedule a free 15 minute video consultation to explore possibilities and areas you can make headway.
Is your sex life causing issues between you and your partner? Would you benefit from better communication with the important people in your life? Are you experiencing a situation that has made it difficult to cope? Do you crave more intimacy and authenticity with others? I believe that anyone can benefit from support and a nonjudgmental perspective, to access the best version of themselves. I offer a high degree of respect for you, meet you where you are in your life, and work on what you consider to be important. Email me today to schedule a free 15 minute video consultation to explore possibilities and areas you can make headway.
(704) 396-4826 View (704) 396-4826
Photo of Laura Gundel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belmont, NC
Laura Gundel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
(980) 243-4149 View (980) 243-4149
Photo of David Oakes Kneen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, NC
David Oakes Kneen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
I love being a biblical counselor because I love seeing God bring hope and change into the tender and difficult places of our relationships, emotions, and pains of life. It is such a privilege to be invited into the lives of my clients. I see clients with marital, parenting, and other relationship struggles. I see them as they are coping with trauma, grief, and the usual transitions and struggles of life. I see them as they engage with anxiety, depression, or the weight of guilt and shame. I would be thrilled to join you, for a time, along your path.
I love being a biblical counselor because I love seeing God bring hope and change into the tender and difficult places of our relationships, emotions, and pains of life. It is such a privilege to be invited into the lives of my clients. I see clients with marital, parenting, and other relationship struggles. I see them as they are coping with trauma, grief, and the usual transitions and struggles of life. I see them as they engage with anxiety, depression, or the weight of guilt and shame. I would be thrilled to join you, for a time, along your path.
(704) 469-4235 View (704) 469-4235
Photo of Barbara Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, NC
Barbara Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RDT, CFSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
I believe connection is key when choosing a therapist! I have been described as genuine, down to earth, and easy to talk with by both youth and adults. My creative and versatile therapeutic approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing in order to highlight your strengths and passions during therapy. Together, we can work towards your goals so that you can feel better soon. I look forward to meeting you and getting started. Access my schedule now online to get started www.creativeperspectivestherapy.com
I believe connection is key when choosing a therapist! I have been described as genuine, down to earth, and easy to talk with by both youth and adults. My creative and versatile therapeutic approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing in order to highlight your strengths and passions during therapy. Together, we can work towards your goals so that you can feel better soon. I look forward to meeting you and getting started. Access my schedule now online to get started www.creativeperspectivestherapy.com
(704) 759-6525 View (704) 759-6525
Photo of Round Table Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Belmont, NC
Round Table Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
NEW CLIENTS WELCOME Are you depressed, worry excessively, feel nervous, get anxious or wish others understood you? Are you stressed out, need balance, or feel invisible or overwhelmed? Perhaps you stay frustrated and confused, feel lonely, or just need someone to listen without judgement. If this describes you I can help. It's NOT too late! I can help you live your best life now.
NEW CLIENTS WELCOME Are you depressed, worry excessively, feel nervous, get anxious or wish others understood you? Are you stressed out, need balance, or feel invisible or overwhelmed? Perhaps you stay frustrated and confused, feel lonely, or just need someone to listen without judgement. If this describes you I can help. It's NOT too late! I can help you live your best life now.
(980) 949-0361 View (980) 949-0361

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Belmont, NC

40+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Belmont, NC who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
87% Self Esteem
83% Relationship Issues
83% Coping Skills
83% Stress
72% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Aetna
48% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Belmont, NC see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Belmont?

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.