Therapists in Vero Beach, FL

Photo of Karen P Mattern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Karen P Mattern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ABD
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Major life transitions can be very stressful. We often need guidance and support navigating new situations, but who can help? Family and friends may not provide an adequate level of support. You may need help with conflicted relationships, honing communication skills, coping with stress and anxiety, addressing feelings of despondency, or coping with a death or other losses. Perhaps you need to learn how to set healthy boundaries, increase self-esteem, learn strategies to cope with adversity, or you may simply desire to be heard. My areas of specialization are grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and those with a history of trauma.
Major life transitions can be very stressful. We often need guidance and support navigating new situations, but who can help? Family and friends may not provide an adequate level of support. You may need help with conflicted relationships, honing communication skills, coping with stress and anxiety, addressing feelings of despondency, or coping with a death or other losses. Perhaps you need to learn how to set healthy boundaries, increase self-esteem, learn strategies to cope with adversity, or you may simply desire to be heard. My areas of specialization are grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and those with a history of trauma.
(772) 758-7750 View (772) 758-7750
Photo of Dr. Karrol-Jo Foster, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Dr. Karrol-Jo Foster
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32967
Choosing therapy is courageous and it can also be terrifying and confusing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, relationships, self-esteem, depression, grief, substances, or trauma, our time together will be a space where you will be met with compassion, understanding and safety. I am a LMHC with a PhD in counseling and over 13 years of counseling experience. I specialize in relationships, substance abuse and trauma. I also help clients reduce stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions, while also improving their ability to cope with issues of every day living that can often feel overwhelming.
Choosing therapy is courageous and it can also be terrifying and confusing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, relationships, self-esteem, depression, grief, substances, or trauma, our time together will be a space where you will be met with compassion, understanding and safety. I am a LMHC with a PhD in counseling and over 13 years of counseling experience. I specialize in relationships, substance abuse and trauma. I also help clients reduce stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions, while also improving their ability to cope with issues of every day living that can often feel overwhelming.
(772) 247-3214 View (772) 247-3214
Photo of Marcus Lewis - Approved E M D R Consultant, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Marcus Lewis - Approved E M D R Consultant
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
My Vero Beach office is officially open and I'm looking to schedule clients for in-person sessions. Change is possible for everyone, regardless of your past doings and experiences. Within YOU lies the strength that can help you live your best life. As a therapist, I’ve helped many people who felt hopeless or stuck work through their struggles and access that inner strength. You have what it takes! Whether it's anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, or life transitions, I’m confident that we can work one-on-one or in a group setting (family and friends can attend depending on the need).
My Vero Beach office is officially open and I'm looking to schedule clients for in-person sessions. Change is possible for everyone, regardless of your past doings and experiences. Within YOU lies the strength that can help you live your best life. As a therapist, I’ve helped many people who felt hopeless or stuck work through their struggles and access that inner strength. You have what it takes! Whether it's anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, or life transitions, I’m confident that we can work one-on-one or in a group setting (family and friends can attend depending on the need).
(954) 231-3256 View (954) 231-3256
Photo of Genevieve Introcaso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Genevieve Introcaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, APHSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Waitlist for new clients
Whatever it is that has you looking for support, I believe you can move through it and grow from it. Asking for help and making time to seek support can be uncomfortable but your peace of mind and wellbeing are worth the effort. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgement so, together, we can find opportunities for positive change. I believe you already have the answers inside of yourself. I want to help you find and own your intrinsic power to overcome the barriers between you and the life you desire.
Whatever it is that has you looking for support, I believe you can move through it and grow from it. Asking for help and making time to seek support can be uncomfortable but your peace of mind and wellbeing are worth the effort. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgement so, together, we can find opportunities for positive change. I believe you already have the answers inside of yourself. I want to help you find and own your intrinsic power to overcome the barriers between you and the life you desire.
(772) 410-5370 View (772) 410-5370
Photo of Laurie Shoats, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Laurie Shoats
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32966  (Online Only)
With almost 40 years experience, Laurie Shoats specializes in Couples, including infidelity recovery, trust and communication issues , Anger Management, Women's Issues, including intimacy and empowerment and Parenting Skills. Laurie Shoats is a dedicated professional who is adept in assisting her clients reach their personal goals. Laurie believes in finding Real Life Solutions for life's challenges. Laurie is referred to as patient, knowledgeable and easy to talk to. Laurie's ideal clients want to start finding solutions from day 1. I am currently doing Telemental Health/Remote sessions so I am able to serve ALL of Florida.
With almost 40 years experience, Laurie Shoats specializes in Couples, including infidelity recovery, trust and communication issues , Anger Management, Women's Issues, including intimacy and empowerment and Parenting Skills. Laurie Shoats is a dedicated professional who is adept in assisting her clients reach their personal goals. Laurie believes in finding Real Life Solutions for life's challenges. Laurie is referred to as patient, knowledgeable and easy to talk to. Laurie's ideal clients want to start finding solutions from day 1. I am currently doing Telemental Health/Remote sessions so I am able to serve ALL of Florida.
(954) 324-1973 View (954) 324-1973
Photo of Lisa Westcoat, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Lisa Westcoat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32960  (Online Only)
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
(772) 213-0021 View (772) 213-0021
Photo of Sharon Paxton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Sharon Paxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
I work with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and families, to develop a treatment plan uniquely designed for each person. During the initial visit, issues bringing the client to therapy and ways of dealing with them are discussed. Common issues addressed in therapy may include stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family problems, transition, loss, grief, self-esteem, and unhealthy life choices. I employ many advanced theatment modalities to assist my clients. Therapy is designed to address the core issues, but is also goal-oriented and structured to help clients improve communication and relationship skills, and lead happier, more productive lives.
I work with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and families, to develop a treatment plan uniquely designed for each person. During the initial visit, issues bringing the client to therapy and ways of dealing with them are discussed. Common issues addressed in therapy may include stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family problems, transition, loss, grief, self-esteem, and unhealthy life choices. I employ many advanced theatment modalities to assist my clients. Therapy is designed to address the core issues, but is also goal-oriented and structured to help clients improve communication and relationship skills, and lead happier, more productive lives.
(772) 321-4575 View (772) 321-4575
Photo of Raymond J. A. Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Raymond J. A. Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32960  (Online Only)
I am originally from Chicago and I have called Florida home for over 20 years. I believe that everyone is capable of greatness if they can only get the direction and chance that they need. "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step". To me this means that no matter where you have started in life and whatever challenge that you are facing, you are not stuck and you can achieve things that you may not have been able to imagine.
I am originally from Chicago and I have called Florida home for over 20 years. I believe that everyone is capable of greatness if they can only get the direction and chance that they need. "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step". To me this means that no matter where you have started in life and whatever challenge that you are facing, you are not stuck and you can achieve things that you may not have been able to imagine.
(772) 577-2122 View (772) 577-2122
Photo of Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC, Psychologist in Vero Beach, FL
Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Waitlist for new clients
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
(954) 654-7549 View (954) 654-7549
Photo of Dr. Christina Mandina-DiMarco, Psychologist in Vero Beach, FL
Dr. Christina Mandina-DiMarco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32960
I obtained my doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology and Neuropsychology. I have a well-balanced generalist and specialty experiences, having worked with a broad spectrum of clinically and culturally diverse populations across the lifespan in several clinical settings.
I obtained my doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology and Neuropsychology. I have a well-balanced generalist and specialty experiences, having worked with a broad spectrum of clinically and culturally diverse populations across the lifespan in several clinical settings.
(772) 218-5134 View (772) 218-5134
Photo of Windsong Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Windsong Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CASM-II
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960  (Online Only)
At Windsong Wellness, we look to help you get the life you want. We specialize in working with addiction, anger management, trauma, and relationships. Let us help you. If you have Aetna, United Healthcare, Oxford, or Oscar: you can schedule at https://headway.co/providers/brett-lieberman for your therapy needs. If you have other insurance, then you can schedule your appointment for teletherapy at www.windsongwellness.org.
At Windsong Wellness, we look to help you get the life you want. We specialize in working with addiction, anger management, trauma, and relationships. Let us help you. If you have Aetna, United Healthcare, Oxford, or Oscar: you can schedule at https://headway.co/providers/brett-lieberman for your therapy needs. If you have other insurance, then you can schedule your appointment for teletherapy at www.windsongwellness.org.
(772) 675-4111 View (772) 675-4111
Photo of David A Gibbs, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
David A Gibbs
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960  (Online Only)
It is my belief, our collaborative journey, is much like the one our friends from The Wizard of OZ shared. A journey, where they longed to find a place called HOME. I recognize that each of us, at one time or another during our journey felt; alone, different, not good enough or lost. My goal is to empower and guide you to the place you call HOME. Home is knowing - knowing your HEART-knowing your MIND-knowing your COURAGE Together we will recognize you have had it all along! A place called HOME
It is my belief, our collaborative journey, is much like the one our friends from The Wizard of OZ shared. A journey, where they longed to find a place called HOME. I recognize that each of us, at one time or another during our journey felt; alone, different, not good enough or lost. My goal is to empower and guide you to the place you call HOME. Home is knowing - knowing your HEART-knowing your MIND-knowing your COURAGE Together we will recognize you have had it all along! A place called HOME
(772) 758-2688 View (772) 758-2688
Photo of Eisert Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Eisert Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Are you looking to regain control of your life to reach your goals and dreams? Do you feel like no one understands what you are going through? Are you looking for a space to share your feelings freely without judgement? Well, you have come to the right place to get the help and support that you are looking for. My practice focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and also Person Centered Therapy. Person Centered allows you to guide the treatment process so it feels right for you. And to go at the pace that is comfortable for you. I will offer a calm and relaxing atmosphere for you to share your feelings and most challenging needs.
Are you looking to regain control of your life to reach your goals and dreams? Do you feel like no one understands what you are going through? Are you looking for a space to share your feelings freely without judgement? Well, you have come to the right place to get the help and support that you are looking for. My practice focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and also Person Centered Therapy. Person Centered allows you to guide the treatment process so it feels right for you. And to go at the pace that is comfortable for you. I will offer a calm and relaxing atmosphere for you to share your feelings and most challenging needs.
(772) 218-5581 View (772) 218-5581
Photo of Andrea Holladay in Vero Beach, FL
Andrea Holladay
MA, BCBA, CWC
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Experience in working with individuals diagnosed within the autism spectrum and related diagnoses, skills and experience include parent and staff training, teacher and school consultation, organizational skills, language and social based training, and addressing behavioral struggles with strategies and interventions. I have additional training in wellness and behavioral approach to making positive change.
Experience in working with individuals diagnosed within the autism spectrum and related diagnoses, skills and experience include parent and staff training, teacher and school consultation, organizational skills, language and social based training, and addressing behavioral struggles with strategies and interventions. I have additional training in wellness and behavioral approach to making positive change.
(772) 266-5443 View (772) 266-5443
Photo of Piper Walsh, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Piper Walsh
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32962  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist in the state of Florida with over 13 years of professional work experience with adults and children who are seeking symptom relief of anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, as well as processing life changes. Verify insurance and schedule through either of the following sites: Headway at headway.co or Grow Therapy.
I am a licensed therapist in the state of Florida with over 13 years of professional work experience with adults and children who are seeking symptom relief of anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, as well as processing life changes. Verify insurance and schedule through either of the following sites: Headway at headway.co or Grow Therapy.
(772) 362-1367 View (772) 362-1367
Photo of Take Flight Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Take Flight Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32967  (Online Only)
You DESERVE to Re-SET, To Re-FUEL, To Re-CHARGE. And then TAKE FLIGHT! Since entering the field of therapy I have learned to ascribe to the adage “all behavior has meaning.” Yes, ALL behavior. A deep curiosity for why we all act and think the way we do coupled with my own life’s challenges and experiences has led me to a place of compassion for not only my own life choices, but compassion for others. Our thoughts lead to feelings, which leads to action. We are not always proud of our actions. This is a no judgement zone and if you are seeking a different feeling and action in your life then you have landed at the right place!
You DESERVE to Re-SET, To Re-FUEL, To Re-CHARGE. And then TAKE FLIGHT! Since entering the field of therapy I have learned to ascribe to the adage “all behavior has meaning.” Yes, ALL behavior. A deep curiosity for why we all act and think the way we do coupled with my own life’s challenges and experiences has led me to a place of compassion for not only my own life choices, but compassion for others. Our thoughts lead to feelings, which leads to action. We are not always proud of our actions. This is a no judgement zone and if you are seeking a different feeling and action in your life then you have landed at the right place!
(772) 238-6118 View (772) 238-6118
Photo of Professional Counseling, vbcp. LLC in Vero Beach, FL
Professional Counseling, vbcp. LLC
CAM, CPI, CMLC, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Are you feeling frustrated, angry, or resentful in your personal or professional life? Do you struggle to control your emotions and communicate effectively with others? Do you want to improve your relationships and achieve your goals without letting anger get in the way?
Are you feeling frustrated, angry, or resentful in your personal or professional life? Do you struggle to control your emotions and communicate effectively with others? Do you want to improve your relationships and achieve your goals without letting anger get in the way?
(772) 291-0548 View (772) 291-0548
Photo of Chrissie Osborn, Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Chrissie Osborn
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CMPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vero Beach, FL 32963  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that therapy can empower you to live the life that you seek. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, grieving a loss, managing relationship issues or processing trauma, I am here to provide a safe, non judgmental and compassionate environment where you can express yourself freely and be fully heard.
I believe that therapy can empower you to live the life that you seek. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, grieving a loss, managing relationship issues or processing trauma, I am here to provide a safe, non judgmental and compassionate environment where you can express yourself freely and be fully heard.
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Photo of Crystal Nickell Hutchinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vero Beach, FL
Crystal Nickell Hutchinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
My therapeutic passion comes from a place of empathy, genuineness, understanding, experience, and acceptance. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a relationship that will grow over time to empower them to heal and make changes they are seeking. My office is a space in which privacy and confidentiality is a top priority for all clients. I believe in creating a place for everyone to face their challenges that may be affecting their life whether it be trauma, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, depression, or health/mental health-related issues.
My therapeutic passion comes from a place of empathy, genuineness, understanding, experience, and acceptance. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a relationship that will grow over time to empower them to heal and make changes they are seeking. My office is a space in which privacy and confidentiality is a top priority for all clients. I believe in creating a place for everyone to face their challenges that may be affecting their life whether it be trauma, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, depression, or health/mental health-related issues.
(772) 213-1369 View (772) 213-1369
Photo of Azat Karen Jones, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Vero Beach, FL
Azat Karen Jones
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
My passion lies in helping individuals who struggle with mental health and addiction issues, particularly those who have experienced trauma. My own personal journey has fueled my commitment to helping others, and I have dedicated my education and career to empower individuals to discover their authentic selves and purpose. As a Mental Health Counselor and EMDR therapist, I believe that the answers to a person's struggles lie within themselves, and I strive to create a safe environment where they can begin to heal from the underlying core issues that lead to destructive behaviors.
My passion lies in helping individuals who struggle with mental health and addiction issues, particularly those who have experienced trauma. My own personal journey has fueled my commitment to helping others, and I have dedicated my education and career to empower individuals to discover their authentic selves and purpose. As a Mental Health Counselor and EMDR therapist, I believe that the answers to a person's struggles lie within themselves, and I strive to create a safe environment where they can begin to heal from the underlying core issues that lead to destructive behaviors.
(772) 404-3972 View (772) 404-3972

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Vero Beach, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$132

Therapists in Vero Beach, FL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
76% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
66% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Vero Beach, FL see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Vero Beach?

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.