Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Sharon Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Sharon Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Recognizing the need to work on a problem demonstrates courage. Perhaps you are out of ideas for how to cope with a troubled marriage/relationship or a strained relationship with your child or teen. Maybe you are depressed or anxious, experiencing job burnout, and nothing you've tried has helped. You might have a vision of how you want life to change, but need a calm and supportive place to work out how to get there. In times like these, you want someone to understand you, help you redefine your strengths, and offer some new options.
Recognizing the need to work on a problem demonstrates courage. Perhaps you are out of ideas for how to cope with a troubled marriage/relationship or a strained relationship with your child or teen. Maybe you are depressed or anxious, experiencing job burnout, and nothing you've tried has helped. You might have a vision of how you want life to change, but need a calm and supportive place to work out how to get there. In times like these, you want someone to understand you, help you redefine your strengths, and offer some new options.
(225) 659-9403 View (225) 659-9403
Photo of Sheetal Verma-Bueche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Sheetal Verma-Bueche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BACS, C-SSWS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Sheetal and I work with both individual and families and specialize in various areas using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindful Self-Compassion to help clients move towards reaching their personal goals and start feeling better.
Hello there! My name is Sheetal and I work with both individual and families and specialize in various areas using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindful Self-Compassion to help clients move towards reaching their personal goals and start feeling better.
(225) 777-8242 View (225) 777-8242
Photo of Alan L. Taylor, Psychologist in Baton Rouge, LA
Alan L. Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Life is guaranteed to produce problems for you to face and solve. Whatever they may be, you do not have to face them alone. We all need someone else to listen, understand, and guide us when we want to cope better with problems, increase our quality of life, or make important decisions.
Life is guaranteed to produce problems for you to face and solve. Whatever they may be, you do not have to face them alone. We all need someone else to listen, understand, and guide us when we want to cope better with problems, increase our quality of life, or make important decisions.
(225) 412-6911 View (225) 412-6911
Photo of Madeline Blocker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Baton Rouge, LA
Madeline Blocker
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
If your child is struggling with their mental health or behavior, seeking help can feel overwhelming. I'm a post-doctoral fellow in psychology passionate about supporting the families of Louisiana, and I'd love to help. I work with parents of children with challenging behavior, children and teens managing anxiety or difficult emotions, and individuals struggling with executive functioning or social skills. I enjoy helping people reach their goals and learn new skills to make their days easier.
If your child is struggling with their mental health or behavior, seeking help can feel overwhelming. I'm a post-doctoral fellow in psychology passionate about supporting the families of Louisiana, and I'd love to help. I work with parents of children with challenging behavior, children and teens managing anxiety or difficult emotions, and individuals struggling with executive functioning or social skills. I enjoy helping people reach their goals and learn new skills to make their days easier.
(225) 209-9401 View (225) 209-9401
Photo of Emily C. Major, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Emily C. Major, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Life presents many challenges on a daily basis. It is of my opinion that seeking help from a professional, regardless of what you may be going through, could be the most rewarding experience of your life. It brings me much pleasure to treat clients from a variety of backgrounds and to help guide them through difficult or confusing times in their lives.
Life presents many challenges on a daily basis. It is of my opinion that seeking help from a professional, regardless of what you may be going through, could be the most rewarding experience of your life. It brings me much pleasure to treat clients from a variety of backgrounds and to help guide them through difficult or confusing times in their lives.
(225) 650-7804 View (225) 650-7804
Photo of Siha, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Siha, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70801
Not accepting new clients
Siha, LLC offers maternal mental health therapy to pregnant women, mothers who have recently given birth, moms who have experienced loss, and/or are adjusting to being a “new mom.” Whether it is your first, second, or third time becoming a mother, together we will create a roadmap that will allow you to thrive as a mother. Our approach to counseling is rooted in Cognitive Theory. We use evidence-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Solution and Strength based modalities to address negative behavior, cognition, and feelings.
Siha, LLC offers maternal mental health therapy to pregnant women, mothers who have recently given birth, moms who have experienced loss, and/or are adjusting to being a “new mom.” Whether it is your first, second, or third time becoming a mother, together we will create a roadmap that will allow you to thrive as a mother. Our approach to counseling is rooted in Cognitive Theory. We use evidence-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Solution and Strength based modalities to address negative behavior, cognition, and feelings.
(225) 209-9299 View (225) 209-9299
Photo of Patricia L. Meek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Patricia L. Meek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, LPC, LAC, LLC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Are you ready for deep and lasting change? Are you willing to practice self-compassion for those wounded parts that hold you back from a fulfilling life? Therapy is a courageous act of exploring and releasing old wounds, discovering and embracing authenticity, and learning to make conscious choices with compassion. I have nineteen years of experience using a unique blend of integrative therapies that include somatic awareness, mindfulness, Jungian psychology, and spiritually focused counseling that will allow you to uncover subconscious traumatic patterns, internalized cognitive distortions, and maladaptive coping strategies.
Are you ready for deep and lasting change? Are you willing to practice self-compassion for those wounded parts that hold you back from a fulfilling life? Therapy is a courageous act of exploring and releasing old wounds, discovering and embracing authenticity, and learning to make conscious choices with compassion. I have nineteen years of experience using a unique blend of integrative therapies that include somatic awareness, mindfulness, Jungian psychology, and spiritually focused counseling that will allow you to uncover subconscious traumatic patterns, internalized cognitive distortions, and maladaptive coping strategies.
(225) 777-9796 View (225) 777-9796
Photo of Dr. Edris F. Lodge, Pastoral Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Dr. Edris F. Lodge
Pastoral Counselor, PsyD , LPCT, MACC, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
You are never too young or too old to encounter challenges. Are you ready for change? It's time to take your life back! I work with Adults, Adolescents, Families and Couples to help overcome life situations, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship and practical challenges.
You are never too young or too old to encounter challenges. Are you ready for change? It's time to take your life back! I work with Adults, Adolescents, Families and Couples to help overcome life situations, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship and practical challenges.
(225) 627-7943 View (225) 627-7943
Photo of Zalexis Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Zalexis Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! Are you looking to gain a better sense of who you are? Maybe there's been a recent change in your life and you're having a difficult time adjusting. Do you find yourself overwhelmed often? Dealing with pushback while trying to break generational patterns and set boundaries? Battling with unresolved trauma? Or, are you involved in a romantic relationship that lacks trust, intimacy, respect, and /or affection?
Welcome! Are you looking to gain a better sense of who you are? Maybe there's been a recent change in your life and you're having a difficult time adjusting. Do you find yourself overwhelmed often? Dealing with pushback while trying to break generational patterns and set boundaries? Battling with unresolved trauma? Or, are you involved in a romantic relationship that lacks trust, intimacy, respect, and /or affection?
(225) 686-5929 View (225) 686-5929
Photo of Lucy Rogers LPC, LMFT, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Lucy Rogers LPC, LMFT, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Life can be stressful, confusing, sad and sometimes rewarding that can cause a level of stress you may have not expected. Everyone has a kaleidoscope based on their current situations, past experiences, hopes for the future and dreams they may have lost and want to regain. My objective is to help you find what harmony means for you on an interpersonal level
Life can be stressful, confusing, sad and sometimes rewarding that can cause a level of stress you may have not expected. Everyone has a kaleidoscope based on their current situations, past experiences, hopes for the future and dreams they may have lost and want to regain. My objective is to help you find what harmony means for you on an interpersonal level
(225) 361-8527 View (225) 361-8527
Photo of Taniesha Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Taniesha Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Are you are an adolescent or adult struggling with daily hassles and being the best version of yourself? Look no further, I am here to help. For over 10 years, I have worked successfully with clients of varying demographics, diagnoses, and life experiences. In my work with clients, I build a solid rapport with them, and team up to explore and define problems, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion to realize those goals. My treatment approach is integrative, which involves tailoring therapy to suit clients by combining ideas and techniques from different therapeutic approaches.
Are you are an adolescent or adult struggling with daily hassles and being the best version of yourself? Look no further, I am here to help. For over 10 years, I have worked successfully with clients of varying demographics, diagnoses, and life experiences. In my work with clients, I build a solid rapport with them, and team up to explore and define problems, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion to realize those goals. My treatment approach is integrative, which involves tailoring therapy to suit clients by combining ideas and techniques from different therapeutic approaches.
(225) 314-7246 View (225) 314-7246
Photo of Rachel R. Stokes, Psychologist in Baton Rouge, LA
Rachel R. Stokes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
People seek therapy services for a variety of reasons. Some individuals first begin participating in therapy when life has become unmanageable. Family or friends may have recommended a consultation with a psychologist in order to find a solution for a specific life problem. Others begin therapy simply as a quest to better understand their life, experiences or relationships with the hope of fully discovering or embracing the best parts of themselves. Choosing the right treatment experience is an important part of the journey. Dr. Stokes is dedicated to meeting the needs of client's seeking personal change and psychological wellness.
People seek therapy services for a variety of reasons. Some individuals first begin participating in therapy when life has become unmanageable. Family or friends may have recommended a consultation with a psychologist in order to find a solution for a specific life problem. Others begin therapy simply as a quest to better understand their life, experiences or relationships with the hope of fully discovering or embracing the best parts of themselves. Choosing the right treatment experience is an important part of the journey. Dr. Stokes is dedicated to meeting the needs of client's seeking personal change and psychological wellness.
(225) 308-3929 View (225) 308-3929
Photo of Maryelizabeth LeBoeuf, Psychologist in Baton Rouge, LA
Maryelizabeth LeBoeuf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Waitlist for new clients
Maryelizabeth LeBoeuf, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with a specialty in child and adolescent psychology. She has been in practice for 13 years. She has experience treating children and adolescents in diverse settings, including residential and day treatment programs, as well as outpatient clinics. She also completed a fellowship at A.I. duPont Hospital for Children with rotations in psychoeducational and behavioral assessment, pediatric endocrinology, and eating disorders. Areas of focus include ADHD, behavior disorders, educational and behavioral assessment, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
Maryelizabeth LeBoeuf, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with a specialty in child and adolescent psychology. She has been in practice for 13 years. She has experience treating children and adolescents in diverse settings, including residential and day treatment programs, as well as outpatient clinics. She also completed a fellowship at A.I. duPont Hospital for Children with rotations in psychoeducational and behavioral assessment, pediatric endocrinology, and eating disorders. Areas of focus include ADHD, behavior disorders, educational and behavioral assessment, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
(225) 217-2950 View (225) 217-2950
Photo of Sam Giamanco, Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Sam Giamanco
Counselor, PLPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I specialize in providing therapy focusing on a wide range of presenting issues such as; trauma, grief, crisis, addiction, depression and anxiety. My goal is to help clients work to facilitate healthy behavior change, help clients to establish and maintain healthy relationships and boundaries, help set personal goals, enhance clients effectiveness and ability to cope, and promote clients potential with implementing a healthy decision making processes.
I specialize in providing therapy focusing on a wide range of presenting issues such as; trauma, grief, crisis, addiction, depression and anxiety. My goal is to help clients work to facilitate healthy behavior change, help clients to establish and maintain healthy relationships and boundaries, help set personal goals, enhance clients effectiveness and ability to cope, and promote clients potential with implementing a healthy decision making processes.
(225) 529-1762 View (225) 529-1762
Photo of Leslie Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Leslie Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70817  (Online Only)
Are you navigating life's complexities, grappling with challenges like anxiety or depression? I am here to help you explore your life experiences, identify strengths, and set achievable goals. We will work together to build resilience, improve your coping strategies, and foster self-discovery in a safe space. I will cultivate an environment where you feel heard, respected, and supported.
Are you navigating life's complexities, grappling with challenges like anxiety or depression? I am here to help you explore your life experiences, identify strengths, and set achievable goals. We will work together to build resilience, improve your coping strategies, and foster self-discovery in a safe space. I will cultivate an environment where you feel heard, respected, and supported.
(225) 719-4570 View (225) 719-4570
Photo of David Walton Earle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
David Walton Earle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Stressed out? Angry? Depressed? Something missing? Unhappy? Relationship not working? Is there something or someone controlling you? Are you restless, irritated, or discontented? Do you want to be happy, joyous, and free? My Life Will Change ... When I Change! Follow that advice and receive many gifts. Each of us already has the solutions to our problems; together we can discovery what roadblocks there are to your peace and serenity. I supply the necessary tools for change you provide the work. Books - check out Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com for David Walton Earle
Stressed out? Angry? Depressed? Something missing? Unhappy? Relationship not working? Is there something or someone controlling you? Are you restless, irritated, or discontented? Do you want to be happy, joyous, and free? My Life Will Change ... When I Change! Follow that advice and receive many gifts. Each of us already has the solutions to our problems; together we can discovery what roadblocks there are to your peace and serenity. I supply the necessary tools for change you provide the work. Books - check out Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com for David Walton Earle
(225) 627-8491 View (225) 627-8491
Photo of Bee Still Grief & Loss Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Bee Still Grief & Loss Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70803  (Online Only)
Life is hectic, and at times, it can be downright brutal! However, our culture rewards those who "push through" regardless of their circumstances. Before long, you're five miles to empty. You have no energy, you're not sleeping well, you're irritable, depressed, anxious, and at times emotionally detached from everything and everyone. My ideal client is someone who is looking to slow down and drown out the noises stifling their inner voice. Mourning loss, cultivating self-acceptance, creating useful internal dialogue, and establishing boundaries are possible when we choose to stop running on fumes and allow ourselves to be still.
Life is hectic, and at times, it can be downright brutal! However, our culture rewards those who "push through" regardless of their circumstances. Before long, you're five miles to empty. You have no energy, you're not sleeping well, you're irritable, depressed, anxious, and at times emotionally detached from everything and everyone. My ideal client is someone who is looking to slow down and drown out the noises stifling their inner voice. Mourning loss, cultivating self-acceptance, creating useful internal dialogue, and establishing boundaries are possible when we choose to stop running on fumes and allow ourselves to be still.
(520) 217-7510 View (520) 217-7510
Photo of William Nicholas Abraham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
William Nicholas Abraham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
"HELPING BUILD A BETTER YOU". . . . . a mental-behavioral-spiritual growth approach to counseling, looking to history and life span development in understanding one's personality (including family of origin, religious imagination and formation, body image, significant transitional periods, major changes in life, physical problems), helping plan one's future - utilizing one's inner resources and strengths - minimizing symptoms of mental disturbance and maximizing one's ability to flourish through mindfulness techniques and an observant objective posture toward life's choices and attitudes - hopefully leading to the enjoyment of spiritual, mental, physical and emotional balance.
"HELPING BUILD A BETTER YOU". . . . . a mental-behavioral-spiritual growth approach to counseling, looking to history and life span development in understanding one's personality (including family of origin, religious imagination and formation, body image, significant transitional periods, major changes in life, physical problems), helping plan one's future - utilizing one's inner resources and strengths - minimizing symptoms of mental disturbance and maximizing one's ability to flourish through mindfulness techniques and an observant objective posture toward life's choices and attitudes - hopefully leading to the enjoyment of spiritual, mental, physical and emotional balance.
(225) 435-4847 View (225) 435-4847
Photo of Elayna O’Connor- Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Elayna O’Connor- Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC-S, NCC , CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
In my role as a Licensed Professional Counselor, my primary objective is to support clients in achieving their highest level of psychosocial well-being. This involves addressing negative patterns, preventing future issues, facilitating rehabilitation, and enhancing the overall quality of life. As a professional counselor, I guide individuals in identifying their goals and exploring potential solutions to challenges that may be causing emotional distress. I strive to enhance communication and coping skills, bolster self-esteem, and foster behavior change to promote optimal mental health.
In my role as a Licensed Professional Counselor, my primary objective is to support clients in achieving their highest level of psychosocial well-being. This involves addressing negative patterns, preventing future issues, facilitating rehabilitation, and enhancing the overall quality of life. As a professional counselor, I guide individuals in identifying their goals and exploring potential solutions to challenges that may be causing emotional distress. I strive to enhance communication and coping skills, bolster self-esteem, and foster behavior change to promote optimal mental health.
(225) 351-1788 View (225) 351-1788
Photo of Jonathan Breaux, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Jonathan Breaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
As a licensed clinical social worker and certified group psychotherapist, I am committed to helping clients untangle the difficult aspects of their life so that they can live with more authenticity and creativity. I support my clients in their desire to have more meaningful and fulfilling personal and interpersonal lives. I do this through individual, family, and couples therapy that focuses on developing insight into problems, learning skills for personal change, and applying those skills and insights to build better relationships.
As a licensed clinical social worker and certified group psychotherapist, I am committed to helping clients untangle the difficult aspects of their life so that they can live with more authenticity and creativity. I support my clients in their desire to have more meaningful and fulfilling personal and interpersonal lives. I do this through individual, family, and couples therapy that focuses on developing insight into problems, learning skills for personal change, and applying those skills and insights to build better relationships.
(225) 401-6965 View (225) 401-6965

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

500+

Average cost per session

$120

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
69% 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.