Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Erica Schultz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Erica Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Hello, I'm happy you're here! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work. Over the years I have worked with clients from many different backgrounds and understand that no two people’s experiences are the same, but believe that each person deserves a safe and trusting space to express their true thoughts and feelings. My goal is to create an environment that is supportive of personal growth, healing from trauma and improving self-compassion. With empathy and understanding, I work with each individual or couple to build on their strengths and empower them to overcome the challenges they are facing.
Hello, I'm happy you're here! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work. Over the years I have worked with clients from many different backgrounds and understand that no two people’s experiences are the same, but believe that each person deserves a safe and trusting space to express their true thoughts and feelings. My goal is to create an environment that is supportive of personal growth, healing from trauma and improving self-compassion. With empathy and understanding, I work with each individual or couple to build on their strengths and empower them to overcome the challenges they are facing.
(847) 577-1501 x922 View (847) 577-1501 x922
Photo of Kristen Melchiori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kristen Melchiori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
(331) 254-4290 View (331) 254-4290
Photo of Heather Olsson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Heather Olsson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Have you experienced Trauma, are you Anxious, Depressed? Are you a First Responder? You may be fed up with your inability to share your day with loved ones in an effort to shield them. Are you wanting to change the way you deal with stress (dark humor, isolation, over eating etc.) and/or are you feeling irritable, overwhelmed, confused and questioning “why now”? You might not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. Most of all, you’re ready to change your outlook on life which will include hope.
Have you experienced Trauma, are you Anxious, Depressed? Are you a First Responder? You may be fed up with your inability to share your day with loved ones in an effort to shield them. Are you wanting to change the way you deal with stress (dark humor, isolation, over eating etc.) and/or are you feeling irritable, overwhelmed, confused and questioning “why now”? You might not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. Most of all, you’re ready to change your outlook on life which will include hope.
(331) 253-5209 View (331) 253-5209
Photo of Christine Huffaker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Naperville, IL
Christine Huffaker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Christine is currently working towards her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Indiana Wesleyan University. Her counseling approach is rooted in person-centered care, believing that clients are always the experts of their own lives. Christine utilizes a strengths based approach in which she collaborates with clients in exploring their unique strengths and how these strengths can be used to reach personal goals.
Christine is currently working towards her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Indiana Wesleyan University. Her counseling approach is rooted in person-centered care, believing that clients are always the experts of their own lives. Christine utilizes a strengths based approach in which she collaborates with clients in exploring their unique strengths and how these strengths can be used to reach personal goals.
(331) 233-1804 View (331) 233-1804
Photo of Fox Valley Institute, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Fox Valley Institute
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. Burke develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients by providing a safe and nurturing environment. She strives to be empathic and genuine so that clients feel empowered and supportive as they navigate life challenges and explore new methods for managing stressors effectively. Her style is compassionate, relaxed, and direct when necessary to guide clients to achieve personal growth.
Dr. Burke develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients by providing a safe and nurturing environment. She strives to be empathic and genuine so that clients feel empowered and supportive as they navigate life challenges and explore new methods for managing stressors effectively. Her style is compassionate, relaxed, and direct when necessary to guide clients to achieve personal growth.
(331) 249-4923 View (331) 249-4923
Photo of Elyse Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Elyse Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Elyse is an experienced clinician with a passion for helping children, teens, families, adults, and couples overcome life’s challenges. She has had the privilege of working with clients in various schools, private practice, and community mental health settings and she utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet the needs of each of her client’s. She acknowledges that therapy is hard work and is constantly humbled by the strength her clients demonstrate throughout the therapeutic process. Elyse approaches therapy with a warm and genuine care for others which allows her clients to grow in a meaningful and purposeful way.
Elyse is an experienced clinician with a passion for helping children, teens, families, adults, and couples overcome life’s challenges. She has had the privilege of working with clients in various schools, private practice, and community mental health settings and she utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet the needs of each of her client’s. She acknowledges that therapy is hard work and is constantly humbled by the strength her clients demonstrate throughout the therapeutic process. Elyse approaches therapy with a warm and genuine care for others which allows her clients to grow in a meaningful and purposeful way.
(331) 244-0312 View (331) 244-0312
Photo of Karen Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Karen Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
(630) 733-1861 View (630) 733-1861
Photo of Lisa Banner, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Lisa Banner
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. You're almost there. For the past 20 years, I've been helping individuals and families get to a better place emotionally and mentally. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, being Solution Focused, and using Mindfulness, I'll teach you the skills, provide you with support and help you through a difficult time.
Sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. You're almost there. For the past 20 years, I've been helping individuals and families get to a better place emotionally and mentally. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, being Solution Focused, and using Mindfulness, I'll teach you the skills, provide you with support and help you through a difficult time.
(331) 241-6357 x630254 View (331) 241-6357 x630254
Photo of Eric Hoyme, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Eric Hoyme
Counselor, MPH, MA, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
(224) 434-3168 View (224) 434-3168
Photo of Cindy Wadsworth in Naperville, IL
Cindy Wadsworth
RN, FNP, MS
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I am now accepting patients on Saturdays! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner currently working on my Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification. I have been in practice for 23 years. I am passionate about mental health and dedicated to helping people find treatments that work for them. I plan to spend the rest of my career working with patients in this way and am very excited about using new research-backed tools to assist patients with their mental health challenges.
I am now accepting patients on Saturdays! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner currently working on my Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification. I have been in practice for 23 years. I am passionate about mental health and dedicated to helping people find treatments that work for them. I plan to spend the rest of my career working with patients in this way and am very excited about using new research-backed tools to assist patients with their mental health challenges.
(630) 345-4876 View (630) 345-4876
Photo of Mickey Mudhar, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Mickey Mudhar
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Mickey has experience as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and an Individual Therapist for adults & adolescents with dual diagnosis. Mickey also served as a Program Manager for adults requiring training and support in their community & workplace. He uses a multicultural approach in order to offer effective interventions to diverse clientele. Mickey has experience with individuals having adjustments to disabilities, relationships, daily functioning, anxiety, mood and depression.
Mickey has experience as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and an Individual Therapist for adults & adolescents with dual diagnosis. Mickey also served as a Program Manager for adults requiring training and support in their community & workplace. He uses a multicultural approach in order to offer effective interventions to diverse clientele. Mickey has experience with individuals having adjustments to disabilities, relationships, daily functioning, anxiety, mood and depression.
(331) 200-3085 View (331) 200-3085
Photo of Working with Soul, Pastoral Counselor in Naperville, IL
Working with Soul
Pastoral Counselor, D Min
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Creating the life you want to live can be incredibly difficult. The forces pushing you to conform to expectations are strong. But what I have learned is that there is a force inside each of us which is even stronger. Jung called this force the “Self” and the process that it sets in motion is “individuation.” Honoring the impulses coming from the Self moves us on to a path which is ours alone, where we can discover the deep passions and purpose of our existence. Are you ready and willing to answer the “call to adventure?’
Creating the life you want to live can be incredibly difficult. The forces pushing you to conform to expectations are strong. But what I have learned is that there is a force inside each of us which is even stronger. Jung called this force the “Self” and the process that it sets in motion is “individuation.” Honoring the impulses coming from the Self moves us on to a path which is ours alone, where we can discover the deep passions and purpose of our existence. Are you ready and willing to answer the “call to adventure?’
(630) 354-0572 View (630) 354-0572
Photo of Alina Moore, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Alina Moore
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Sometimes the hardest thing is asking for help. Choosing to enter therapy is a courageous act and one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Finding the right therapist for you, someone whom you can trust, who makes you feel safe, and believes in you might feel difficult and daunting at times but is also one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. I feel honored and grateful to each and every one of my clients who entrusted me with their stories and embarked on their healing journey with me. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain the necessary insight and skills to live the life you want and deserve.
Sometimes the hardest thing is asking for help. Choosing to enter therapy is a courageous act and one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Finding the right therapist for you, someone whom you can trust, who makes you feel safe, and believes in you might feel difficult and daunting at times but is also one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. I feel honored and grateful to each and every one of my clients who entrusted me with their stories and embarked on their healing journey with me. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain the necessary insight and skills to live the life you want and deserve.
(630) 478-8074 View (630) 478-8074
Photo of Adam S Ratner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Adam S Ratner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Individuals/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent, Young Adult, Adult. Clients consistently find Adam to be very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. Each quickly learns that Adam always strives to over deliver on the care and services he provides. For more information please visit: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com
Individuals/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent, Young Adult, Adult. Clients consistently find Adam to be very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. Each quickly learns that Adam always strives to over deliver on the care and services he provides. For more information please visit: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com
(331) 702-9356 View (331) 702-9356
Photo of Marianne Vranek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Marianne Vranek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Marianne Vranek is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2021. Marianne approaches clients with a holistic approach. She works with the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Marianne wants to learn about the person and their journey, to understand their symptoms, and behaviors. With her social work degree, she also brings in the knowledge of the family dynamics system into treatment. Her modalities include DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, positive psychology, and she is EMDR-trained. Marianne is here for her client. She has a client-centered focus and meets her clients where they are at.
Marianne Vranek is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2021. Marianne approaches clients with a holistic approach. She works with the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Marianne wants to learn about the person and their journey, to understand their symptoms, and behaviors. With her social work degree, she also brings in the knowledge of the family dynamics system into treatment. Her modalities include DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, positive psychology, and she is EMDR-trained. Marianne is here for her client. She has a client-centered focus and meets her clients where they are at.
(630) 349-2993 View (630) 349-2993
Photo of Jaclyn Fleck, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Jaclyn Fleck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
**I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING/ASSESSMENT ONLY** Hello and welcome to Prosper Psychological Services--I look forward to meeting with you! I offer both psychological testing/assessment and individual therapy to adolescents and adults. My office is located in the heart of downtown Naperville and I offer flexible office hours.
**I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING/ASSESSMENT ONLY** Hello and welcome to Prosper Psychological Services--I look forward to meeting with you! I offer both psychological testing/assessment and individual therapy to adolescents and adults. My office is located in the heart of downtown Naperville and I offer flexible office hours.
(331) 702-9382 View (331) 702-9382
Photo of Mary Bell, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Mary Bell
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Mary W. Bell is a Psychologist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1995. She has a PhD in Clinical Child Psychology and is a Licensed School Psychologist. Mary has more than twenty years of experience assessing children from the ages of pre-school to high school and extensive experience working in the public school system, which helps her to communicate children's needs and make meaningful recommendations for both school and home. Outside of work, Mary enjoys bicycling the many wonderful trails in her area, attending live music events, and reading.
Mary W. Bell is a Psychologist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1995. She has a PhD in Clinical Child Psychology and is a Licensed School Psychologist. Mary has more than twenty years of experience assessing children from the ages of pre-school to high school and extensive experience working in the public school system, which helps her to communicate children's needs and make meaningful recommendations for both school and home. Outside of work, Mary enjoys bicycling the many wonderful trails in her area, attending live music events, and reading.
(630) 749-9324 View (630) 749-9324
Photo of Lisa M Wagner, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Lisa M Wagner
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Have you noticed yourself becoming more anxious, stressed, worried, and depressed? Perhaps you are now more isolated, lonely, and missing the hope and joy you once had. Seeking or even just considering clinical counseling is a brave act, and I applaud you for the effort it took. I know it can be scary, especially if it's your first time talking to a psychotherapist. But the only way to determine if it's right for you is to reach out. When you do, you will find me on the other end. I'm compassionate and caring without judgment.
Have you noticed yourself becoming more anxious, stressed, worried, and depressed? Perhaps you are now more isolated, lonely, and missing the hope and joy you once had. Seeking or even just considering clinical counseling is a brave act, and I applaud you for the effort it took. I know it can be scary, especially if it's your first time talking to a psychotherapist. But the only way to determine if it's right for you is to reach out. When you do, you will find me on the other end. I'm compassionate and caring without judgment.
(331) 258-3507 x5 View (331) 258-3507 x5
Photo of Keren Cardenas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Keren Cardenas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60565  (Online Only)
Keren Cardenas has experience in providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are struggling to overcome barriers in life. She provides therapeutic cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and strategies to promote the psychological health and wholeness of the clients. Over the years, she has helped individuals achieve their goals by instilling hope. She values collaboration and communication when fostering a therapeutic relationship and believes each client requires personalized treatment. Keren specializes in treating clients with depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, ADHD, and traumas.
Keren Cardenas has experience in providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are struggling to overcome barriers in life. She provides therapeutic cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and strategies to promote the psychological health and wholeness of the clients. Over the years, she has helped individuals achieve their goals by instilling hope. She values collaboration and communication when fostering a therapeutic relationship and believes each client requires personalized treatment. Keren specializes in treating clients with depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, ADHD, and traumas.
(872) 278-1753 View (872) 278-1753
Photo of Kathleen Hayden, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Kathleen Hayden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I love the unfolding nature of therapy and actively come alongside people as they discover their true self and journey toward a state of greater well-being – mentally, emotionally, physically & spiritually. I strive to create a safe and accepting space for each person; and believe discovering strengths and resiliencies is an important part of the process.
I love the unfolding nature of therapy and actively come alongside people as they discover their true self and journey toward a state of greater well-being – mentally, emotionally, physically & spiritually. I strive to create a safe and accepting space for each person; and believe discovering strengths and resiliencies is an important part of the process.
(331) 244-2117 View (331) 244-2117

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Naperville, IL

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Naperville, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Grief
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Naperville, IL see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Naperville?

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.