Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Kentrell Blatcher, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Kentrell Blatcher
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, BA, MBA
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Do you feel that addiction has taken over aspects of your life? Some days may be better than others, but you still can’t manage these struggles yourself. Are you ready to change your life? I’m here to help! No more waiting to get the help you need. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to change. Addiction doesn't have to run your life. You can beat it, and we can help. With over 7+ years of experience, I’m ready to join you in your journey to sobriety. I can help you beat addiction while you save your life!
Do you feel that addiction has taken over aspects of your life? Some days may be better than others, but you still can’t manage these struggles yourself. Are you ready to change your life? I’m here to help! No more waiting to get the help you need. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to change. Addiction doesn't have to run your life. You can beat it, and we can help. With over 7+ years of experience, I’m ready to join you in your journey to sobriety. I can help you beat addiction while you save your life!
(225) 523-2621 View (225) 523-2621
Tiffany Guitreau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Have you been feeling depressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Have you had recent problems with your family and/or relationships? Are you in search of someone to talk to about current stressors? Are you wanting to make a healthy change in your life? If so, I can help! The first step of reaching out for help is often the hardest. I provide a safe, private and comfortable atmosphere for my clients to work through their challenges and reach a point of stability and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Contact me today to schedule your first appointment.
Have you been feeling depressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Have you had recent problems with your family and/or relationships? Are you in search of someone to talk to about current stressors? Are you wanting to make a healthy change in your life? If so, I can help! The first step of reaching out for help is often the hardest. I provide a safe, private and comfortable atmosphere for my clients to work through their challenges and reach a point of stability and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Contact me today to schedule your first appointment.
(225) 442-0676 View (225) 442-0676
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 Samuel M. Chesterfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Samuel M. Chesterfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809  (Online Only)
Over-thinking and replaying situations from the past? Are you constantly over-analyzing your present-day life, not knowing how to navigate towards your future? You don't need to stay stuck in a toxic headspace. Do you have a child with behavioral issues in the home or school setting? With 10 years of experience in Mental Health Services and children's issues; Honey House Outreach, LLC is a safe space to connect, recharge, and gain inspiration. The time is now, to morph into your full potential!
Over-thinking and replaying situations from the past? Are you constantly over-analyzing your present-day life, not knowing how to navigate towards your future? You don't need to stay stuck in a toxic headspace. Do you have a child with behavioral issues in the home or school setting? With 10 years of experience in Mental Health Services and children's issues; Honey House Outreach, LLC is a safe space to connect, recharge, and gain inspiration. The time is now, to morph into your full potential!
(225) 240-1842 View (225) 240-1842
Photo of Samantha Gremillion, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Samantha Gremillion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
I believe that the therapeutic process should be individualized to meet your specific goals and needs while identifying and building upon your strengths. I enjoy working collaboratively to discover your potential, while gaining better understanding and awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My goal is to create a welcoming, peaceful, and nonjudgmental space where you are able to prioritize yourself and your emotions.
I believe that the therapeutic process should be individualized to meet your specific goals and needs while identifying and building upon your strengths. I enjoy working collaboratively to discover your potential, while gaining better understanding and awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My goal is to create a welcoming, peaceful, and nonjudgmental space where you are able to prioritize yourself and your emotions.
(225) 425-8913 View (225) 425-8913
Photo of Susan Waggenspack Delaune, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Susan Waggenspack Delaune
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Not accepting new clients
The human spirit is amazingly resilient and capable of overcoming incredible obstacles! There are times in life when we can use help coping with such obstacles. Dr. Brene' Brown says "Courage starts with showing up!" Whether it is addressing anxiety or depression as you work through a crisis, managing a stressful relationship, wanting to be a better parent, coping with a chronic illness, or adjusting to a major life change, the counseling process can guide you to wellness and peace of mind.
The human spirit is amazingly resilient and capable of overcoming incredible obstacles! There are times in life when we can use help coping with such obstacles. Dr. Brene' Brown says "Courage starts with showing up!" Whether it is addressing anxiety or depression as you work through a crisis, managing a stressful relationship, wanting to be a better parent, coping with a chronic illness, or adjusting to a major life change, the counseling process can guide you to wellness and peace of mind.
(225) 614-2054 View (225) 614-2054
Photo of Logan Foley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Logan Foley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Not accepting new clients
A specialist in Anxiety and Mood Disorders, I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field as a clinical therapist. My ideal client is someone in need of assistance with Anxiety and/or Depression.
A specialist in Anxiety and Mood Disorders, I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field as a clinical therapist. My ideal client is someone in need of assistance with Anxiety and/or Depression.
(225) 217-2595 View (225) 217-2595
Photo of Jen Tewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Jen Tewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a non-judgmental, irreverent, direct, nontraditional, trauma-informed, queer therapist? Yes? Glad you're here. I'm here to support and witness YOU. I'm deeply committed to fostering an inclusive community and welcome clients of all backgrounds, including individuals of different shapes, sizes, cultures, religions, abilities, ages, races, sexual orientations (LGBTQIA+), neurotypes, gender identities, socioeconomic statuses, and occupational backgrounds. My clinical focus is trauma, sexual trauma, and women's issues. I use several therapeutic approaches, including Internal Family Systems and Attachment Theory.
Are you seeking a non-judgmental, irreverent, direct, nontraditional, trauma-informed, queer therapist? Yes? Glad you're here. I'm here to support and witness YOU. I'm deeply committed to fostering an inclusive community and welcome clients of all backgrounds, including individuals of different shapes, sizes, cultures, religions, abilities, ages, races, sexual orientations (LGBTQIA+), neurotypes, gender identities, socioeconomic statuses, and occupational backgrounds. My clinical focus is trauma, sexual trauma, and women's issues. I use several therapeutic approaches, including Internal Family Systems and Attachment Theory.
(225) 434-4776 View (225) 434-4776
Photo of A Healing Place Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
A Healing Place Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70805  (Online Only)
In life, we sometimes veer off the path that can take us away from our true selves. My goal is to help you find your way back to your path and move toward your most authentic self. My approach is a collaborative one with the client who is an expert on their lives and my expertise in helping you navigate your new direction. I will help you uncover your own strength and healing by reconnecting from within and using those new connections to create a new future. With healing and guidance, you will experience transformation.
In life, we sometimes veer off the path that can take us away from our true selves. My goal is to help you find your way back to your path and move toward your most authentic self. My approach is a collaborative one with the client who is an expert on their lives and my expertise in helping you navigate your new direction. I will help you uncover your own strength and healing by reconnecting from within and using those new connections to create a new future. With healing and guidance, you will experience transformation.
(225) 240-4753 View (225) 240-4753
Photo of Mechele de Avila, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Mechele de Avila, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70815
"I don't know what's wrong with me, but I don't feel like myself." Many things can happen in our lives that cause us to feel, "off," or not like we used to be. We may think that we aren't enjoying life as much as we used to, we may find that we are too caught up in our own head to enjoy things we used to enjoy. If you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, anxious, worried, nervous, or having a hard time dealing with changes, therapy can help. Most of us want a life worth living: good relationships with ourselves and others, happiness, and motivation to do things that we want to do. If you're ready to make some changes and start feeling better, call me for a free ten minute consultation to see how I can help you get back on track to feeling better.
"I don't know what's wrong with me, but I don't feel like myself." Many things can happen in our lives that cause us to feel, "off," or not like we used to be. We may think that we aren't enjoying life as much as we used to, we may find that we are too caught up in our own head to enjoy things we used to enjoy. If you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, anxious, worried, nervous, or having a hard time dealing with changes, therapy can help. Most of us want a life worth living: good relationships with ourselves and others, happiness, and motivation to do things that we want to do. If you're ready to make some changes and start feeling better, call me for a free ten minute consultation to see how I can help you get back on track to feeling better.
(225) 522-4998 View (225) 522-4998
Photo of Lynn Gresham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Lynn Gresham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Trying to manage the stress in our relationships can be overwhelming, frustrating, and painful. Are you questioning the commitment you made, and wondering if things can get any better? Did an event happen causing your relationship to change? Do you want to take the next step in your commitment, but would like to identify strengths and examine potential roadblocks before moving forward? Maybe you're doing well, but could strengthen intimacy, communication, or understanding within your relationship.
Trying to manage the stress in our relationships can be overwhelming, frustrating, and painful. Are you questioning the commitment you made, and wondering if things can get any better? Did an event happen causing your relationship to change? Do you want to take the next step in your commitment, but would like to identify strengths and examine potential roadblocks before moving forward? Maybe you're doing well, but could strengthen intimacy, communication, or understanding within your relationship.
(225) 442-9620 View (225) 442-9620
Photo of Crystal Antle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Crystal Antle, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, C-DBT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806  (Online Only)
My name is Crystal Antle and I am a LCSW. I hold a certification in dialectical behavioral therapy and have years of expertise in the treatment, diagnosis and management of personality disorders. My experience lies in working with both adolescents and adults living with chronic disease, mental health difficulties, personality issues, life transition, adjustment difficulties and disability. As a therapist, my job is to help you recognize the barriers that are holding you captive, help you devise a plan to overcome those barriers, and encourage you as you see them through. Yes, YOU have the power to change your life!
My name is Crystal Antle and I am a LCSW. I hold a certification in dialectical behavioral therapy and have years of expertise in the treatment, diagnosis and management of personality disorders. My experience lies in working with both adolescents and adults living with chronic disease, mental health difficulties, personality issues, life transition, adjustment difficulties and disability. As a therapist, my job is to help you recognize the barriers that are holding you captive, help you devise a plan to overcome those barriers, and encourage you as you see them through. Yes, YOU have the power to change your life!
(225) 230-2603 View (225) 230-2603
Photo of Sarah Rehman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Sarah Rehman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I enjoy working with people seeking to improve their quality of life. Sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint where the “problem” is, or why our relationships have become so difficult. Difficulty in relationships, anxiety, depression, and grief are among the concerns that I am able to help clients with. Coping with childhood trauma, the impacts of substance use and/or alcoholic parents or partners, and surviving physical, emotional, or verbal abuse are areas with which I am well suited to assist clients.
I enjoy working with people seeking to improve their quality of life. Sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint where the “problem” is, or why our relationships have become so difficult. Difficulty in relationships, anxiety, depression, and grief are among the concerns that I am able to help clients with. Coping with childhood trauma, the impacts of substance use and/or alcoholic parents or partners, and surviving physical, emotional, or verbal abuse are areas with which I am well suited to assist clients.
(225) 314-8946 View (225) 314-8946
Photo of Rick Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Rick Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS, LAC, CCGC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
I want to help you. My name is Rick Jackson and I have 14 years of experience with a wide variety of issues and concerns. Many people struggle from time to time with a variety of mental and emotional issues. One of the best assets a therapist can have is listening. I will utilize that skill to help provide guidance as we begin to develop the goals you want to achieve in therapy.
I want to help you. My name is Rick Jackson and I have 14 years of experience with a wide variety of issues and concerns. Many people struggle from time to time with a variety of mental and emotional issues. One of the best assets a therapist can have is listening. I will utilize that skill to help provide guidance as we begin to develop the goals you want to achieve in therapy.
(504) 226-5896 View (504) 226-5896
Photo of Miyokia Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Miyokia Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
My goal through the therapeutic process is to guide and help you realize that regardless of your situation or circumstances, you can still live and reach your maximum potential. It is my desire to help you grow into the best version of yourself that you can possibly be; by helping you enhance all the necessary skills that you will need to secure both your mental and emotional well-being.
My goal through the therapeutic process is to guide and help you realize that regardless of your situation or circumstances, you can still live and reach your maximum potential. It is my desire to help you grow into the best version of yourself that you can possibly be; by helping you enhance all the necessary skills that you will need to secure both your mental and emotional well-being.
(225) 267-9078 View (225) 267-9078
Photo of Mary Pesses, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Mary Pesses
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Mary Pesses, LCSW is a therapist in private practice working with preteens, adolescents and adults. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, parenting, and behavioral difficulties. Mary is committed to the use of sound research and evidence-based practices in her work.
Mary Pesses, LCSW is a therapist in private practice working with preteens, adolescents and adults. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, parenting, and behavioral difficulties. Mary is committed to the use of sound research and evidence-based practices in her work.
(225) 267-8248 View (225) 267-8248
Photo of Ramon Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Ramon Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
I believe in a balanced approach to emotional, mental, and physical change through the counseling process. I see counseling as a collaborative experience between client and therapist in a safe environment where we work as a team to define present problems, develop future goals for an improved life and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored in order to better understand the client's problems and to develop solutions.
I believe in a balanced approach to emotional, mental, and physical change through the counseling process. I see counseling as a collaborative experience between client and therapist in a safe environment where we work as a team to define present problems, develop future goals for an improved life and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored in order to better understand the client's problems and to develop solutions.
(225) 681-8016 View (225) 681-8016
Photo of Aliah Esmaeili-Taplin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Aliah Esmaeili-Taplin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I work with individuals from all walks of life and various age groups. I believe counseling can greatly benefit anyone regardless of the issue at hand. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with experience in community based, substance use, clinical mental health, and school counseling. My specialty areas include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, multicultural stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, trauma, family stressors, mood disorders, grief/loss, and self-esteem.
I work with individuals from all walks of life and various age groups. I believe counseling can greatly benefit anyone regardless of the issue at hand. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with experience in community based, substance use, clinical mental health, and school counseling. My specialty areas include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, multicultural stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, trauma, family stressors, mood disorders, grief/loss, and self-esteem.
(225) 425-3162 View (225) 425-3162
Photo of Lisa L Lipsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Lisa L Lipsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, ACSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 35 years of experience and work with adults and young adults 18 and older. I work with individuals and groups and provide consultation and supervision to other therapists. I tend to be eclectic in my style and tailor it according to the individual and their specific circumstances. I work with a variety of issues, including grief, depression, anxiety and stress, self esteem and self compassion enhancement. I also address relationship concerns, relapse prevention, and work with family members coping with loved ones who have Alzheimer's/dementia and substance abuse disorders.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 35 years of experience and work with adults and young adults 18 and older. I work with individuals and groups and provide consultation and supervision to other therapists. I tend to be eclectic in my style and tailor it according to the individual and their specific circumstances. I work with a variety of issues, including grief, depression, anxiety and stress, self esteem and self compassion enhancement. I also address relationship concerns, relapse prevention, and work with family members coping with loved ones who have Alzheimer's/dementia and substance abuse disorders.
(225) 923-0444 View (225) 923-0444
Photo of Jesse Mack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Jesse Mack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
My focus is with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health concerns. I work with each individual, and their families, to help build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they have set out to accomplish. I welcome anyone, of any sexual or gender identification. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and honest place to work together through identified obstacles.
My focus is with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health concerns. I work with each individual, and their families, to help build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they have set out to accomplish. I welcome anyone, of any sexual or gender identification. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and honest place to work together through identified obstacles.
(225) 230-2943 View (225) 230-2943

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.