Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

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Photo of Gena Kohner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Gena Kohner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you are here. The decision to start therapy isn't always an easy one, and you’ve already accomplished one of the hardest parts: starting the process. The process of finding a therapist can also be a bit overwhelming, and finding someone that is a good match for you is essential to your success. Naturally, you may feel a little nervous or uncertain at first, and that is okay! I am here to answer any of your questions and make the process less intimidating. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and developing a genuine relationship with each one.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you are here. The decision to start therapy isn't always an easy one, and you’ve already accomplished one of the hardest parts: starting the process. The process of finding a therapist can also be a bit overwhelming, and finding someone that is a good match for you is essential to your success. Naturally, you may feel a little nervous or uncertain at first, and that is okay! I am here to answer any of your questions and make the process less intimidating. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and developing a genuine relationship with each one.
(602) 492-6921 View (602) 492-6921
Photo of Rachel Goodman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Rachel Goodman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LAMFT, MAS-MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Are you struggling in your relationship? I am here to help. No relationship is perfect. But it takes two people willing to work hard, grow together, and be open to change. I would to love help you through your growth journey. It has always been a passion of mine to help couples grow into the best version of their relationships. My therapy room is a safe, supportive, & non judgemental space. I specialize in helping couples with a wide range of challenges. My approach collaborative, compassionate and informative. You will leave my sessions with and tools to help you grow. Accepting new clients! Located near Scottsdale, Arcadia, Tempe.
Are you struggling in your relationship? I am here to help. No relationship is perfect. But it takes two people willing to work hard, grow together, and be open to change. I would to love help you through your growth journey. It has always been a passion of mine to help couples grow into the best version of their relationships. My therapy room is a safe, supportive, & non judgemental space. I specialize in helping couples with a wide range of challenges. My approach collaborative, compassionate and informative. You will leave my sessions with and tools to help you grow. Accepting new clients! Located near Scottsdale, Arcadia, Tempe.
(480) 376-7216 View (480) 376-7216
Photo of Selena Soni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Selena Soni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Feeling defeated, worthless, incapable, have low self-esteem and self-worth? Feeling unfulfilled in work and relationships? Feeling stuck in life or with looping thoughts? I specialize in helping clients overcome the loss of self, anxiety, and depression in a matter of months rather than years; increase acceptance, experience the present, and live with more purpose. I will help you focus on removing the barriers to wellness, finding relief, and a new peace of mind.
Feeling defeated, worthless, incapable, have low self-esteem and self-worth? Feeling unfulfilled in work and relationships? Feeling stuck in life or with looping thoughts? I specialize in helping clients overcome the loss of self, anxiety, and depression in a matter of months rather than years; increase acceptance, experience the present, and live with more purpose. I will help you focus on removing the barriers to wellness, finding relief, and a new peace of mind.
(480) 300-2635 View (480) 300-2635
Photo of Janet Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Janet Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience helping people make positive change in their lives utilizing a comprehensive approach. Treatment modalities include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and EMDR. My ideal client is anyone who wishes to live a happier, healthier life.
I have extensive experience helping people make positive change in their lives utilizing a comprehensive approach. Treatment modalities include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and EMDR. My ideal client is anyone who wishes to live a happier, healthier life.
(262) 332-4137 View (262) 332-4137
Photo of Shannon Worle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Scottsdale, AZ
Shannon Worle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Therapy With Heart in Scottsdale, AZ. My goal is to provide a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for each and every couple, family, or individual I have the privilege of working with. Life can feel overwhelming at times, but I also know how much relief can come with having someone listen to you in a way that genuinely makes you feel heard. I believe that every person deserves to feel seen and understood, and when those needs are met, we can truly feel loved by others. Together, we can work to restore secure connection within your relationships and within yourself.
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Therapy With Heart in Scottsdale, AZ. My goal is to provide a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for each and every couple, family, or individual I have the privilege of working with. Life can feel overwhelming at times, but I also know how much relief can come with having someone listen to you in a way that genuinely makes you feel heard. I believe that every person deserves to feel seen and understood, and when those needs are met, we can truly feel loved by others. Together, we can work to restore secure connection within your relationships and within yourself.
(928) 267-6704 View (928) 267-6704
Photo of Jerri Shields, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Jerri Shields
Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a private practice located off the 101 and Shea Blvd. I belong to the American Counseling Association (ACA), American Christian Counseling Association (AACC) and a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC). I served on the Board of the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (2013-2019), and as Chairman from (2014-2016, 2017-2018). I was also on the Behavioral Health Rules Subcommittee, Personnel Subcommittee and Counseling Credentialing Committees. I currently volunteer at Scottsdale Bible Church and am an Adjunct Professor at Phoenix Seminary teaching Ethics.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a private practice located off the 101 and Shea Blvd. I belong to the American Counseling Association (ACA), American Christian Counseling Association (AACC) and a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC). I served on the Board of the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (2013-2019), and as Chairman from (2014-2016, 2017-2018). I was also on the Behavioral Health Rules Subcommittee, Personnel Subcommittee and Counseling Credentialing Committees. I currently volunteer at Scottsdale Bible Church and am an Adjunct Professor at Phoenix Seminary teaching Ethics.
(480) 269-9748 View (480) 269-9748
Photo of Lindy Johnson, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Lindy Johnson
Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Are you feeling stuck? Are you experiencing challenges navigating relationships? Are you communicating as effectively as you would like with the significant people in your life? Are you living your best 'life story'?
Are you feeling stuck? Are you experiencing challenges navigating relationships? Are you communicating as effectively as you would like with the significant people in your life? Are you living your best 'life story'?
(480) 462-5365 View (480) 462-5365
Photo of Valerie Dawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Valerie Dawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Life is very challenging! As you navigate this stressful world you may sometimes feel that your moods and behaviors are out of your control. While we were taught many subjects in school, we never had a class to learn effective strategies on how to manage our thoughts, feelings and actions. You're finding that your efforts to feel better on your own haven't been working for you. Some of the things that you’ve tried may have even made everything worse. Perhaps you feel bad that you can’t seem to get unstuck on your own. However, it’s not your fault, because you were never taught the skills you really needed!
Life is very challenging! As you navigate this stressful world you may sometimes feel that your moods and behaviors are out of your control. While we were taught many subjects in school, we never had a class to learn effective strategies on how to manage our thoughts, feelings and actions. You're finding that your efforts to feel better on your own haven't been working for you. Some of the things that you’ve tried may have even made everything worse. Perhaps you feel bad that you can’t seem to get unstuck on your own. However, it’s not your fault, because you were never taught the skills you really needed!
(480) 690-9748 View (480) 690-9748
Photo of Scottsdale Women's Psychology & Consulting, PLLC, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale Women's Psychology & Consulting, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Welcome to Scottsdale Women's Psychology, a boutique psychology practice specializing in women's empowerment through the delivery of gender-sensitive, research-supported psychotherapy for women.
Welcome to Scottsdale Women's Psychology, a boutique psychology practice specializing in women's empowerment through the delivery of gender-sensitive, research-supported psychotherapy for women.
(480) 530-7622 View (480) 530-7622
Photo of Courtney Downing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Courtney Downing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I specialize in working with children ages 6+, adolescents, adults, and elderly who struggle with anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, self-esteem, relationships, trauma, and grief and loss. I believe in walking with my clients through their difficult moments, building coping skills, and promoting a healthy mental health lifestyle. I have completed trainings in CBT and DBT, and I utilize these techniques along with talk therapy. I am easy to talk to and provide a comfortable, nonjudgemental space for you to be heard.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I specialize in working with children ages 6+, adolescents, adults, and elderly who struggle with anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, self-esteem, relationships, trauma, and grief and loss. I believe in walking with my clients through their difficult moments, building coping skills, and promoting a healthy mental health lifestyle. I have completed trainings in CBT and DBT, and I utilize these techniques along with talk therapy. I am easy to talk to and provide a comfortable, nonjudgemental space for you to be heard.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Angela Smigiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Angela Smigiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the mental and behavioral health field since 2004. I am a graduate of Arizona State University, receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master's of Social Work degree. My approach is integrative and trauma informed. My objective as a Therapist is to help you heal from your past and identify and shift patterns that are no longer serving you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the mental and behavioral health field since 2004. I am a graduate of Arizona State University, receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master's of Social Work degree. My approach is integrative and trauma informed. My objective as a Therapist is to help you heal from your past and identify and shift patterns that are no longer serving you.
(480) 428-2670 View (480) 428-2670
Photo of Catherine Jordeth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Catherine Jordeth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Everyone has the ability within themselves to heal and to grow. My goal as a therapist is to help each individual realize their own innate healing potential. Once this realization occurs, the possibilities become limitless. My areas of specialization include helping others resolve social phobias, general stress and anxiety, depression, traumas, and relationship concerns. I work with many who are going through transitions. I see college age students who are adjusting to living on their own. There are others who are going through a divorce or have completed the process who call.
Everyone has the ability within themselves to heal and to grow. My goal as a therapist is to help each individual realize their own innate healing potential. Once this realization occurs, the possibilities become limitless. My areas of specialization include helping others resolve social phobias, general stress and anxiety, depression, traumas, and relationship concerns. I work with many who are going through transitions. I see college age students who are adjusting to living on their own. There are others who are going through a divorce or have completed the process who call.
(480) 808-8928 View (480) 808-8928
Photo of Mamiko Odegard in Scottsdale, AZ
Mamiko Odegard
PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
When you want fast changes, Dr. Mamiko Odegard is the go to person to dramatically step up the way you "show up." Having overcome her own layers of personal shame, she immediately guides you to have the best relationship with yourself, with others, and with a romantic partner. Whether you are dealing with personal challenges in your life or career such as experiencing stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, frustration, relationship difficulties, or want to elevate to world class performance and to access your best and happiest self, Dr. Mamiko can quickly take you to your goals through her proven methods and strategies for success.
When you want fast changes, Dr. Mamiko Odegard is the go to person to dramatically step up the way you "show up." Having overcome her own layers of personal shame, she immediately guides you to have the best relationship with yourself, with others, and with a romantic partner. Whether you are dealing with personal challenges in your life or career such as experiencing stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, frustration, relationship difficulties, or want to elevate to world class performance and to access your best and happiest self, Dr. Mamiko can quickly take you to your goals through her proven methods and strategies for success.
(602) 584-8951 View (602) 584-8951
Photo of Gary Breuer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Gary Breuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, ACHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am certified in EMDR, Brainspotting and Clinical Hypnotherapy, powerful mind-body therapies which facilitate healing at a deep/core level (not just symptom management). I integrate these modalities with talk therapies, however, results typically occur in much less time than traditional talk therapy alone.
I am certified in EMDR, Brainspotting and Clinical Hypnotherapy, powerful mind-body therapies which facilitate healing at a deep/core level (not just symptom management). I integrate these modalities with talk therapies, however, results typically occur in much less time than traditional talk therapy alone.
(480) 758-2552 View (480) 758-2552
Photo of Chelsey Pruett, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Chelsey Pruett
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I will provide a safe place for you to heal and together we will go on a journey to create meaningful change in your life. I have a passion for helping & working with others by being intentional about listening & truly hearing you while providing a non-judgmental space to forge the best version of yourself. I prioritize intercultural competency and letting people frame their own experiences in the specific context they come from. I specialize in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an effective treatment method which focuses on reprogramming the brain to feel and react differently to traumatic memories. Come as you are!
I will provide a safe place for you to heal and together we will go on a journey to create meaningful change in your life. I have a passion for helping & working with others by being intentional about listening & truly hearing you while providing a non-judgmental space to forge the best version of yourself. I prioritize intercultural competency and letting people frame their own experiences in the specific context they come from. I specialize in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an effective treatment method which focuses on reprogramming the brain to feel and react differently to traumatic memories. Come as you are!
(602) 755-9757 View (602) 755-9757
Photo of Ana Franco, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Ana Franco
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
Immediate availability! Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, and stress that affect your day-to-day life? Navigating life with the different challenges that we face can be overwhelming while making us feel lost and stuck. My goal is to help you manage these challenges and achieve wellness and healing for a healthier life. No matter where you are in life, I am here to support you through this journey of healing and growth towards a happy, healthy, and meaningful life.
Immediate availability! Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, and stress that affect your day-to-day life? Navigating life with the different challenges that we face can be overwhelming while making us feel lost and stuck. My goal is to help you manage these challenges and achieve wellness and healing for a healthier life. No matter where you are in life, I am here to support you through this journey of healing and growth towards a happy, healthy, and meaningful life.
(623) 288-4483 View (623) 288-4483
Photo of Jamye Shelton, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Jamye Shelton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
Dr. Shelton is an adult private practice sport and performance psychologist located in Scottsdale, AZ. She offers services through a variety of platforms including in-office visits, telephone, and virtual telepsychology appointments. Her practice utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with performance psychology strategies to focus on examining the interaction between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to best achieve goals, improve functioning, and increase performance.
Dr. Shelton is an adult private practice sport and performance psychologist located in Scottsdale, AZ. She offers services through a variety of platforms including in-office visits, telephone, and virtual telepsychology appointments. Her practice utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with performance psychology strategies to focus on examining the interaction between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to best achieve goals, improve functioning, and increase performance.
(480) 618-7970 View (480) 618-7970
Photo of Shannon Francis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Shannon Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
If you're the person that is often thinking about all the mistakes you made or worrying about what people thought of you all day, and it feels like there is a weight on your chest, I understand. I work extensively with treating depression, anxiety, trauma and daily life stressors. I believe adjusting your thought patterns can help you change behaviors, resulting in a different outcome.
If you're the person that is often thinking about all the mistakes you made or worrying about what people thought of you all day, and it feels like there is a weight on your chest, I understand. I work extensively with treating depression, anxiety, trauma and daily life stressors. I believe adjusting your thought patterns can help you change behaviors, resulting in a different outcome.
(480) 933-4055 View (480) 933-4055
Photo of Angela G Bowers, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Angela G Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
My training and professional experience has been with clients of all ages. I work primarily as a cognitive/behavioral therapist. This means that I am practical, goal oriented, and that the work is research based. I have special training in clinical hypnosis, EFT, guided imagery and meditation, as well as yoga. I often blend cognitive work with other modalities. I give specific recommendations and frequently assign "homework". I believe people who are motivated can make tremendous changes. I feel priviledged and honored to work with clients who are facing tough life challenges. I love my work!
My training and professional experience has been with clients of all ages. I work primarily as a cognitive/behavioral therapist. This means that I am practical, goal oriented, and that the work is research based. I have special training in clinical hypnosis, EFT, guided imagery and meditation, as well as yoga. I often blend cognitive work with other modalities. I give specific recommendations and frequently assign "homework". I believe people who are motivated can make tremendous changes. I feel priviledged and honored to work with clients who are facing tough life challenges. I love my work!
(480) 447-9230 View (480) 447-9230
Photo of Dr. Christine Bielinski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Dr. Christine Bielinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Hello. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I believe change is always possible. Working together as a team, I am committed to YOU and your success in emerging as a braver, more joyful, and fulfilled person. I want you to THRIVE, not just survive in life. People come to me because they oftentimes feel stuck in their lives. I help them identify where they want to go and help them get there. I choose strategies depending upon your specific needs. I am trained in effective modalities including CBT, DBT, EFT, including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, Performance Interventions, and Christian Counseling.
Hello. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I believe change is always possible. Working together as a team, I am committed to YOU and your success in emerging as a braver, more joyful, and fulfilled person. I want you to THRIVE, not just survive in life. People come to me because they oftentimes feel stuck in their lives. I help them identify where they want to go and help them get there. I choose strategies depending upon your specific needs. I am trained in effective modalities including CBT, DBT, EFT, including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, Performance Interventions, and Christian Counseling.
(602) 536-4453 View (602) 536-4453

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
64% BlueCross and BlueShield
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Scottsdale?

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.