Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Tamyra Bourgeois, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Tamyra Bourgeois
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I am a licensed professional counselor and my motto is "I'm in the business of self-acceptance more than the business of self-improvement." I hold to the tenant that when we shoot for and achieve self-acceptance it is then that self trust, self love and self confidence organically emerge. We achieve these goals through a series of gentle conversations that lead to remarkable self discoveries.
I am a licensed professional counselor and my motto is "I'm in the business of self-acceptance more than the business of self-improvement." I hold to the tenant that when we shoot for and achieve self-acceptance it is then that self trust, self love and self confidence organically emerge. We achieve these goals through a series of gentle conversations that lead to remarkable self discoveries.
(225) 230-2596 View (225) 230-2596
Photo of Amy Chagnard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Amy Chagnard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Not accepting new clients
Personal growth, relationships, and addiction are my passions. I assist clients looking to grow as an individual or within a relationship as a couple, in learning more about themselves and the patterns of behaviors that have caused them to feel stuck, lost, or alone. I work with couples and individuals to gain insight into these issues, to restore what feels lost, or build what has always been missing.
Personal growth, relationships, and addiction are my passions. I assist clients looking to grow as an individual or within a relationship as a couple, in learning more about themselves and the patterns of behaviors that have caused them to feel stuck, lost, or alone. I work with couples and individuals to gain insight into these issues, to restore what feels lost, or build what has always been missing.
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Photo of Morgan Shirley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Morgan Shirley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Waitlist for new clients
Making the decision to seek counseling can be a challenging first step, and it takes tremendous strength to reach out for help. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere to help individuals navigate life's challenges in an effort to develop a healthy lifestyle.
Making the decision to seek counseling can be a challenging first step, and it takes tremendous strength to reach out for help. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere to help individuals navigate life's challenges in an effort to develop a healthy lifestyle.
(225) 341-5847 View (225) 341-5847
Photo of Merritt Voitier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Merritt Voitier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
I seek to support and empower clients using evidence-based practices. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor specializing in therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. I am dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and confidential environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With 9 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges that young individuals face during their formative years.
I seek to support and empower clients using evidence-based practices. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor specializing in therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. I am dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and confidential environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With 9 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges that young individuals face during their formative years.
(225) 283-4579 View (225) 283-4579
Photo of Beth Mahaffey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Beth Mahaffey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking counseling can be a challenging step. There are times in our life we realize our feelings are too overwhelming to deal with on our own. I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to explore your feelings. My goal is to help you find the coping skills you need to balance your life.
Seeking counseling can be a challenging step. There are times in our life we realize our feelings are too overwhelming to deal with on our own. I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to explore your feelings. My goal is to help you find the coping skills you need to balance your life.
(225) 412-2115 View (225) 412-2115
Photo of Patti P Dowling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Patti P Dowling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and virtual counselor in Louisiana. I have been in practice over 17 years working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults. I believe we all deserve a little help sometimes, and that’s what led you here. If you’re feeling like your life has become unmanageable in certain areas and you're ready for a reset, you have come to the right place.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and virtual counselor in Louisiana. I have been in practice over 17 years working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults. I believe we all deserve a little help sometimes, and that’s what led you here. If you’re feeling like your life has become unmanageable in certain areas and you're ready for a reset, you have come to the right place.
(225) 681-9058 View (225) 681-9058
Photo of Kacey Ardoin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Kacey Ardoin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810  (Online Only)
Are you wanting to work on yourself, but you have no idea where to really start? Well, you have come to the right place! I have worked with clients who are struggling with a variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship issues, panic, life changes, parenting, anger, addiction, and body image struggles. I am passionate about working with grief, particularly survivors of suicide loss. There truly is nothing like seeing my clients make positive changes in their lives and reaching goals that they didn’t think were possible. My true wish is that you show up as yourself every time!
Are you wanting to work on yourself, but you have no idea where to really start? Well, you have come to the right place! I have worked with clients who are struggling with a variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship issues, panic, life changes, parenting, anger, addiction, and body image struggles. I am passionate about working with grief, particularly survivors of suicide loss. There truly is nothing like seeing my clients make positive changes in their lives and reaching goals that they didn’t think were possible. My true wish is that you show up as yourself every time!
(225) 269-2533 View (225) 269-2533
Photo of Doug White & Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Doug White & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Doug White and Associates provides a wide range of services for those who have mental health struggles. Our practice takes pride in offering services to the community through six clinicians who specialize in a wide range of mental health areas. Our practice, as a whole, specializes in Sexual and Porn Addiction, but we are grateful to have a team that can help with many different areas. The staff at Doug White and Associates is highly trained and skilled in helping individuals recover from sexual addiction, pornography addiction, affairs, and other process addictions.
Doug White and Associates provides a wide range of services for those who have mental health struggles. Our practice takes pride in offering services to the community through six clinicians who specialize in a wide range of mental health areas. Our practice, as a whole, specializes in Sexual and Porn Addiction, but we are grateful to have a team that can help with many different areas. The staff at Doug White and Associates is highly trained and skilled in helping individuals recover from sexual addiction, pornography addiction, affairs, and other process addictions.
(225) 372-5305 View (225) 372-5305
Photo of Kaci Treadaway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Kaci Treadaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling from Southeastern Louisiana University. I am committed to providing professional counseling services from a Christian perspective to adolescents, young adults, and families. I offer a variety of counseling services that address the following issues: adolescents struggling in school -adolescents struggling with parent relationships -adolescents struggling with anxiety or depression -parenting issues-depression -anxiety -self esteem -panic attacks -adjustment issues -past childhood matters - -eating disorders -relationship concerns -grief -singleness
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling from Southeastern Louisiana University. I am committed to providing professional counseling services from a Christian perspective to adolescents, young adults, and families. I offer a variety of counseling services that address the following issues: adolescents struggling in school -adolescents struggling with parent relationships -adolescents struggling with anxiety or depression -parenting issues-depression -anxiety -self esteem -panic attacks -adjustment issues -past childhood matters - -eating disorders -relationship concerns -grief -singleness
(225) 224-7138 View (225) 224-7138
Photo of Shawn Campbell Joseph, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Shawn Campbell Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
As CEO/Owner of Gordon and Gordon Counseling LLC, the focus of my private practice is to incorporate a healthy perspective of one's mental health. Helping clients maneuver through daily challenges and identifing triggers will help them use coping skills to reduce stressors.
As CEO/Owner of Gordon and Gordon Counseling LLC, the focus of my private practice is to incorporate a healthy perspective of one's mental health. Helping clients maneuver through daily challenges and identifing triggers will help them use coping skills to reduce stressors.
(225) 396-4828 View (225) 396-4828
Photo of Joshua Leaumont, Pre-Licensed Professional in Baton Rouge, LA
Joshua Leaumont
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, PLPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I see counseling as a process in which the Client and I, the PLPC, will build a therapeutic relationship based on understanding and trust. Seeking counseling is the first step in the right direction towards happiness and personal freedom. I would love to assist and guide you through the next steps towards positive changes. Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship, struggling to cope with a loss, hoping to manage symptoms of anxiety or depression more effectively or just needing guidance managing what life throws at you, I can help.
I see counseling as a process in which the Client and I, the PLPC, will build a therapeutic relationship based on understanding and trust. Seeking counseling is the first step in the right direction towards happiness and personal freedom. I would love to assist and guide you through the next steps towards positive changes. Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship, struggling to cope with a loss, hoping to manage symptoms of anxiety or depression more effectively or just needing guidance managing what life throws at you, I can help.
(225) 434-4380 View (225) 434-4380
Photo of Joshua D Hinkel, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Joshua D Hinkel
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
My areas of focus include trauma & PTSD, borderline personality, and couples struggling with ineffective communication and conflict resolution due to trauma. I also work with men on social skills, dating, anxiety, and feeling lost as they navigate the unique challenges of our current day and age. I'm passionate about helping individuals understand how past traumatic experiences are influencing their current thoughts and behaviors; I believe your experiences and problems are unique, and I would love to be part of your therapeutic journey.
My areas of focus include trauma & PTSD, borderline personality, and couples struggling with ineffective communication and conflict resolution due to trauma. I also work with men on social skills, dating, anxiety, and feeling lost as they navigate the unique challenges of our current day and age. I'm passionate about helping individuals understand how past traumatic experiences are influencing their current thoughts and behaviors; I believe your experiences and problems are unique, and I would love to be part of your therapeutic journey.
(225) 396-4968 View (225) 396-4968
Photo of Kristy Dandridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Kristy Dandridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC - S, NCC, LPCT, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Counseling is not just an educational endeavor for me, it is my true life’s passion. As my primary spiritual/natural gift, my purpose on earth is to utilize my counseling skills to serve others in any capacity that I can. We have all felt sad, angry, lonely, misunderstood, unforgiven, misused, abused, fed up, and so on and so forth. Our goal in therapy would be to examine your emotional well being and how it impacts your life. While you process through everything from past trauma to current conflicts, it is significant to know that your growth and healing is what is most important to me.
Counseling is not just an educational endeavor for me, it is my true life’s passion. As my primary spiritual/natural gift, my purpose on earth is to utilize my counseling skills to serve others in any capacity that I can. We have all felt sad, angry, lonely, misunderstood, unforgiven, misused, abused, fed up, and so on and so forth. Our goal in therapy would be to examine your emotional well being and how it impacts your life. While you process through everything from past trauma to current conflicts, it is significant to know that your growth and healing is what is most important to me.
(225) 330-7203 View (225) 330-7203
Photo of Christine Belaire, Marriage & Family Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Christine Belaire
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I view counseling as a collaborative relationship in which the client and I work together to explore the current problematic issues and develop goals to address these issues. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, adjustment to life issues, and communication and relationships. I work with adults, children (play therapy), teens, couples, and families of all backgrounds. Additionally, I work within your spiritual beliefs to address your issues according to your values. I believe that change occurs through the development of a collaborative working relationship and through changing negative thoughts and behaviors that affect changes in mood.
I view counseling as a collaborative relationship in which the client and I work together to explore the current problematic issues and develop goals to address these issues. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, adjustment to life issues, and communication and relationships. I work with adults, children (play therapy), teens, couples, and families of all backgrounds. Additionally, I work within your spiritual beliefs to address your issues according to your values. I believe that change occurs through the development of a collaborative working relationship and through changing negative thoughts and behaviors that affect changes in mood.
(225) 217-2815 View (225) 217-2815
Photo of Cheryl Brodnax, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Cheryl Brodnax
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I work with families, children, and teenagers to help equip them with skills needed to thrive in life, and resolve conflict. As a parent and youth volunteer within the community, my heart is for this young generation and the issues they face. Depression, anxiety, stress, and peer struggles threaten the emotional well-being of our kids. Sadly, suicide is now one of the leading causes of death for this age group. It’s imperative that our youth receive an outlet for their emotional stress and injury, and receive the coping skills to work through the obstacles they’ll face now and as adults.
I work with families, children, and teenagers to help equip them with skills needed to thrive in life, and resolve conflict. As a parent and youth volunteer within the community, my heart is for this young generation and the issues they face. Depression, anxiety, stress, and peer struggles threaten the emotional well-being of our kids. Sadly, suicide is now one of the leading causes of death for this age group. It’s imperative that our youth receive an outlet for their emotional stress and injury, and receive the coping skills to work through the obstacles they’ll face now and as adults.
(225) 307-4289 View (225) 307-4289
Photo of Maureen S Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Maureen S Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
I’ve been providing trauma counseling for over 20 years. I’m really excited to be providing a newer psychotherapy technique to treat trauma. DBR (Deep Brain Reorienting) is a trauma therapy which “aims to access the core of the traumatic experience in a way which tracks the original physiological sequence in the brainstem” (deepbrainreorienting.com)
I’ve been providing trauma counseling for over 20 years. I’m really excited to be providing a newer psychotherapy technique to treat trauma. DBR (Deep Brain Reorienting) is a trauma therapy which “aims to access the core of the traumatic experience in a way which tracks the original physiological sequence in the brainstem” (deepbrainreorienting.com)
(225) 442-9607 View (225) 442-9607
Photo of Emily Citron Thibodeaux in Baton Rouge, LA
Emily Citron Thibodeaux
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
As a counselor, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, but my heart lies in supporting children ages 3-10, as well as young adults. I’m passionate about utilizing play therapy—a method I find incredibly effective and rewarding—in helping children navigate through behavioral, social, and emotional difficulties. In addition, for both children and young adults, I offer space for those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship/family stressors. My approach centers on building a strong relationship with my clients because I believe that trust is the cornerstone of your counseling experience.
As a counselor, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, but my heart lies in supporting children ages 3-10, as well as young adults. I’m passionate about utilizing play therapy—a method I find incredibly effective and rewarding—in helping children navigate through behavioral, social, and emotional difficulties. In addition, for both children and young adults, I offer space for those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship/family stressors. My approach centers on building a strong relationship with my clients because I believe that trust is the cornerstone of your counseling experience.
(225) 425-7634 View (225) 425-7634
Photo of Jc Andries, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Jc Andries
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Struggling with trauma? You deserve the peace that comes with understanding your own story and the relief of realizing you are no longer repeating the same patterns. Working with me, you will not get a therapist who just listens and nods. I love to deeply explore your world with you. I am bold and authentic, and will be honest with you as we work together. I believe that people will naturally move towards healing as long as they are provided with the space for it, and the right therapist.
Struggling with trauma? You deserve the peace that comes with understanding your own story and the relief of realizing you are no longer repeating the same patterns. Working with me, you will not get a therapist who just listens and nods. I love to deeply explore your world with you. I am bold and authentic, and will be honest with you as we work together. I believe that people will naturally move towards healing as long as they are provided with the space for it, and the right therapist.
(225) 659-9478 View (225) 659-9478
Photo of Catherine Vicknair, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Catherine Vicknair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Not accepting new clients
My name is Catherine Vicknair (she/her/hers) and I work with adults in dealing with the struggles life throws at them. With all of my clients, my goal is to work with them mutually on developing solutions and providing them with the tools they need to live confident, independent, and successful lives (#liveyourbestlife). I’m most passionate about working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community and related issues, but I also enjoy working with clients that have other struggles such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, anger, coping skills, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, emotional control, etc.
My name is Catherine Vicknair (she/her/hers) and I work with adults in dealing with the struggles life throws at them. With all of my clients, my goal is to work with them mutually on developing solutions and providing them with the tools they need to live confident, independent, and successful lives (#liveyourbestlife). I’m most passionate about working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community and related issues, but I also enjoy working with clients that have other struggles such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, anger, coping skills, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, emotional control, etc.
(225) 435-5357 View (225) 435-5357
Photo of Couples Therapist And Emdr Therapist - Callie Shermer Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Baton Rouge, LA
Couples Therapist And Emdr Therapist - Callie Shermer Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, PLMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Waitlist for new clients
Having a career as a therapist is one of the greatest joys of my life. I'm grateful for the opportunity to walk with/guide my clients through whatever struggles they face. As your therapist, I will strive to create a person-centered, empathetic, supportive, encouraging, and non-judgmental atmosphere. I am highly passionate about Marriage Counseling, Trauma-Focused Counseling, and working with individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ages 15+.
Having a career as a therapist is one of the greatest joys of my life. I'm grateful for the opportunity to walk with/guide my clients through whatever struggles they face. As your therapist, I will strive to create a person-centered, empathetic, supportive, encouraging, and non-judgmental atmosphere. I am highly passionate about Marriage Counseling, Trauma-Focused Counseling, and working with individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ages 15+.
(225) 263-4866 View (225) 263-4866

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

500+

Average cost per session

$123

Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Coping Skills
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Stress
65% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
66% Aetna

How Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Baton Rouge?

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.