Therapists in Billings, MT

Photo of Growth Mindset, LLC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Growth Mindset, LLC
Counselor, MS, PCLC, ACLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My name is Jesse Alcorn. I work with people who struggle with acceptance, difficulties, change, or lingering emotionally impacting stressors. If you have anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, ambivalence, relationship issues, etc. I believe I may be of assistance! If you want to come to therapy to have a better, healthier outlook on life in general or your unique situation, Growth Mindset may be able to assist in that transformative process. I believe life is about growth and continuing to challenge ourselves to strive toward optimization. I also do Christian counseling specific if you or your loved one is interested.
My name is Jesse Alcorn. I work with people who struggle with acceptance, difficulties, change, or lingering emotionally impacting stressors. If you have anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, ambivalence, relationship issues, etc. I believe I may be of assistance! If you want to come to therapy to have a better, healthier outlook on life in general or your unique situation, Growth Mindset may be able to assist in that transformative process. I believe life is about growth and continuing to challenge ourselves to strive toward optimization. I also do Christian counseling specific if you or your loved one is interested.
(406) 747-0862 View (406) 747-0862
Photo of Kathleen J. Wagner, Psychotherapy Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kathleen J. Wagner, Psychotherapy Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59106
I love working with my clients in the relational field with a goal of undoing aloneness. We will work together to identify defenses and blocks that prevent wholehearted, healthy living. With a goal of transformational change using client-centered attachment based therapy processes for a variety of mental health concerns. I specialize in the treatment of trauma induced syndromes. I primarily see adults; considering each individual, their goals and needs and seeking feedback to ensure that a therapeutic alliance can be fostered and make every effort to maintain that connection.
I love working with my clients in the relational field with a goal of undoing aloneness. We will work together to identify defenses and blocks that prevent wholehearted, healthy living. With a goal of transformational change using client-centered attachment based therapy processes for a variety of mental health concerns. I specialize in the treatment of trauma induced syndromes. I primarily see adults; considering each individual, their goals and needs and seeking feedback to ensure that a therapeutic alliance can be fostered and make every effort to maintain that connection.
(406) 551-9560 View (406) 551-9560
Photo of Nathan Stahley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Nathan Stahley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
I believe the benefits of a healthy therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool in growing into the person we want to be in our lives. Addressing past traumas, developing strategies for coping, and identifying insight into challenging situations can all be helpful parts of therapy. As a person-centered therapist, I seek to create a safe and non judgmental space allowing for collaboration. Together we can explore and identify tools and techniques that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
I believe the benefits of a healthy therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool in growing into the person we want to be in our lives. Addressing past traumas, developing strategies for coping, and identifying insight into challenging situations can all be helpful parts of therapy. As a person-centered therapist, I seek to create a safe and non judgmental space allowing for collaboration. Together we can explore and identify tools and techniques that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
(406) 732-2384 View (406) 732-2384
Photo of Eli Matthew Karinen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Eli Matthew Karinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I offer a safe and non-judgmental experience in therapy. Clients can expect to feel welcomed in a laid-back atmosphere and to speak freely, reflect upon thoughts, emotions, and troubles. With over a decade of experience as a therapist and social worker, I help people of all ages and backgrounds overcome their challenges.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental experience in therapy. Clients can expect to feel welcomed in a laid-back atmosphere and to speak freely, reflect upon thoughts, emotions, and troubles. With over a decade of experience as a therapist and social worker, I help people of all ages and backgrounds overcome their challenges.
(406) 413-9274 View (406) 413-9274
Photo of Dennis William Muri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Dennis William Muri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for thirteen years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Trust is everything.
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for thirteen years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Trust is everything.
(406) 204-4896 View (406) 204-4896
Photo of Jesse J Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Jesse J Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Do you find that life's struggles have you down more than usual? Hi, I am the owner of Sandstone Counseling Services, LLC. I have a Master's in Social Work, and am a licensed clinician. Throughout schooling and work in the field, I have worked with everyone from hospice patients, "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) youth, schools, foster children, adults, and families. I have also done an abundance of custody work in Yellowstone County over the past 20+ years. I work with a variety of individuals ages 10 and up. I believe in meeting people where they are and working our way through whatever brings them to my office.
Do you find that life's struggles have you down more than usual? Hi, I am the owner of Sandstone Counseling Services, LLC. I have a Master's in Social Work, and am a licensed clinician. Throughout schooling and work in the field, I have worked with everyone from hospice patients, "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) youth, schools, foster children, adults, and families. I have also done an abundance of custody work in Yellowstone County over the past 20+ years. I work with a variety of individuals ages 10 and up. I believe in meeting people where they are and working our way through whatever brings them to my office.
(406) 662-0676 View (406) 662-0676
Photo of Aspen Practice, P.C., dba Michael R. Bütz, Ph.D., Psychologist in Billings, MT
Aspen Practice, P.C., dba Michael R. Bütz, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Dr. Bütz has been a licensed psychologist for over twenty years, working both in executive management and conducting clinical, forensic and neuropsychological work. During the fall of 2015, Dr. Bütz moved his clinical and neuropsychoogical practice to St. Vincent Healthcare Behavioral Health Associates and maintained his forensic practice under Aspen Practice, P.C.
Dr. Bütz has been a licensed psychologist for over twenty years, working both in executive management and conducting clinical, forensic and neuropsychological work. During the fall of 2015, Dr. Bütz moved his clinical and neuropsychoogical practice to St. Vincent Healthcare Behavioral Health Associates and maintained his forensic practice under Aspen Practice, P.C.
(406) 948-4419 View (406) 948-4419
Photo of Veronica Olsen, Counselor in Billings, MT
Veronica Olsen
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? As a licensed counselor, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of counseling. Through counseling, individuals can gain valuable insight, develop coping skills, and experience emotional healing. Together, we can work towards building resilience, improving relationships, and fostering a sense of empowerment. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consult with me. You deserve to live a fulfilling and balanced life, and I am here to support you on that journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? As a licensed counselor, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of counseling. Through counseling, individuals can gain valuable insight, develop coping skills, and experience emotional healing. Together, we can work towards building resilience, improving relationships, and fostering a sense of empowerment. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consult with me. You deserve to live a fulfilling and balanced life, and I am here to support you on that journey.
(406) 282-8325 View (406) 282-8325
Photo of Virginia Rightmier Pierce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Virginia Rightmier Pierce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59105
You will find me to be client focused offering a safe, confidential place to address and work through your personal problems/issues. Clients find me easy to talk to and non-judgmental. You get to set your goals and pace for therapy. My 25 years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, adoptive families, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral and emotional problems, parenting issues, relationship problems, and too many other issues to list gives me vast resources to help you grow. It would be an honor to work with you.
You will find me to be client focused offering a safe, confidential place to address and work through your personal problems/issues. Clients find me easy to talk to and non-judgmental. You get to set your goals and pace for therapy. My 25 years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, adoptive families, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral and emotional problems, parenting issues, relationship problems, and too many other issues to list gives me vast resources to help you grow. It would be an honor to work with you.
(406) 961-7375 View (406) 961-7375
Photo of Tammy Rea, Counselor in Billings, MT
Tammy Rea
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59106  (Online Only)
My goal is to aid others by helping with life's daily struggles of self care, mental health, stress management, and relationship issues. I am experienced working with children, teens, and adults. I believe with effort and support, there is hope to live our lives in the ways that make us happiest.
My goal is to aid others by helping with life's daily struggles of self care, mental health, stress management, and relationship issues. I am experienced working with children, teens, and adults. I believe with effort and support, there is hope to live our lives in the ways that make us happiest.
(406) 559-3101 View (406) 559-3101
Photo of Dustan Toth, Counselor in Billings, MT
Dustan Toth
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Empowerment for Life’s Journey: Empowerment has always been a special and meaningful concept for me. Empowerment is the process of becoming stronger and more confident. This is important especially in controlling one’s life. As a mental health counselor, my specialty, is helping individuals to work to remove challenges to achieving satisfaction in their lives. Many times we find ourselves stuck in patterns that are self-defeating but seem difficult to change. These may cause us problems in school and work, as well as in our peer and family relationships, and interfere with the enjoyment of pleasurable activities.
Empowerment for Life’s Journey: Empowerment has always been a special and meaningful concept for me. Empowerment is the process of becoming stronger and more confident. This is important especially in controlling one’s life. As a mental health counselor, my specialty, is helping individuals to work to remove challenges to achieving satisfaction in their lives. Many times we find ourselves stuck in patterns that are self-defeating but seem difficult to change. These may cause us problems in school and work, as well as in our peer and family relationships, and interfere with the enjoyment of pleasurable activities.
(406) 518-7055 View (406) 518-7055
Photo of Amber A Ault, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Amber A Ault
Pre-Licensed Professional, M, Ed, PLLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My name is Amber Ault and I am a therapist who will work with you to improve your emotional well-being. Emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress and trauma can be overwhelming resulting in making it difficult to manage your emotions and can lead to a persistent sense of unhappiness or dissatisfaction. I know every individual's journey is unique which is why I will adopt a personalized approach to your therapy. I want to understand your specific needs, goals and values empowering you with specific tools and insights needed for long-term growth.
My name is Amber Ault and I am a therapist who will work with you to improve your emotional well-being. Emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress and trauma can be overwhelming resulting in making it difficult to manage your emotions and can lead to a persistent sense of unhappiness or dissatisfaction. I know every individual's journey is unique which is why I will adopt a personalized approach to your therapy. I want to understand your specific needs, goals and values empowering you with specific tools and insights needed for long-term growth.
(406) 929-1568 View (406) 929-1568
Photo of Malissa Steffes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Malissa Steffes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Through my schooling and work in the field I have experience working with children in the school setting, community and child protective services. I have experience working with children diagnosed "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) in the school setting to foster children and families. I also am currently doing custody evaluations for the Yellowstone County Court system (13th Judicial District). I am interested in helping those who want to help themselves or their family.
I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Through my schooling and work in the field I have experience working with children in the school setting, community and child protective services. I have experience working with children diagnosed "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) in the school setting to foster children and families. I also am currently doing custody evaluations for the Yellowstone County Court system (13th Judicial District). I am interested in helping those who want to help themselves or their family.
(406) 204-5298 View (406) 204-5298
Photo of Tylene A Merkel, Counselor in Billings, MT
Tylene A Merkel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I am a therapist with 30+ years experience. As I build a relationship with my clients I integrate traditional therapy with innovative "best practice" tools. I help people become strong at the broken places in their life so they can move forward with peace and confidence.
I am a therapist with 30+ years experience. As I build a relationship with my clients I integrate traditional therapy with innovative "best practice" tools. I help people become strong at the broken places in their life so they can move forward with peace and confidence.
(406) 625-3035 View (406) 625-3035
Photo of Jolane Flanigan, Counselor in Billings, MT
Jolane Flanigan
Counselor, PhD, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I have come to understand that much of our pain comes from things that strain or break our connection to others or that interfere with achieving our goals. I’m guessing if you’re reading this, you are in a hard spot in your life. It will get better. In therapy, you will learn more about yourself and how your past is adversely shaping your today. I will bring my experience and training to help in the process of overcoming your roadblocks to happiness.
I have come to understand that much of our pain comes from things that strain or break our connection to others or that interfere with achieving our goals. I’m guessing if you’re reading this, you are in a hard spot in your life. It will get better. In therapy, you will learn more about yourself and how your past is adversely shaping your today. I will bring my experience and training to help in the process of overcoming your roadblocks to happiness.
(406) 296-5513 View (406) 296-5513
Photo of Ashley Crtalic, Counselor in Billings, MT
Ashley Crtalic
Counselor, MS, PCLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
My focus areas: Couples - late diagnosed neurodivergence - parenting autism - postpartum. I want every couple to feel heard and seen as individuals and to gain fresh insight and tools for their relationship. I love helping improve communication, heal areas of hurt and resentment in a relationship, and improving intimacy. I also love working with parents of autistic children to find joy in parenting neurodivergence and working with late-diagnosed (or suspected) autistic adults. My third specialty area is working with new moms struggling with intrusive thoughts, anxiety, depression, and changes to body image and relationships.
My focus areas: Couples - late diagnosed neurodivergence - parenting autism - postpartum. I want every couple to feel heard and seen as individuals and to gain fresh insight and tools for their relationship. I love helping improve communication, heal areas of hurt and resentment in a relationship, and improving intimacy. I also love working with parents of autistic children to find joy in parenting neurodivergence and working with late-diagnosed (or suspected) autistic adults. My third specialty area is working with new moms struggling with intrusive thoughts, anxiety, depression, and changes to body image and relationships.
(406) 215-2023 View (406) 215-2023
Photo of Rebecca Dawn Fallon, Counselor in Billings, MT
Rebecca Dawn Fallon
Counselor, MS, LAC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
My name is Rebecca Fallon. I am a licensed addictions counselor and licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of MT. After working in an agency setting for the last several years, I decided to begin my own practice after being encouraged by a colleague and having my son. I see all ages. I also work with a variety of issues including eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, infertility, psychosis, dissociation, and everything in between. My approach draws from a variety of evidenced based practices including CBT and DBT.
My name is Rebecca Fallon. I am a licensed addictions counselor and licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of MT. After working in an agency setting for the last several years, I decided to begin my own practice after being encouraged by a colleague and having my son. I see all ages. I also work with a variety of issues including eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, infertility, psychosis, dissociation, and everything in between. My approach draws from a variety of evidenced based practices including CBT and DBT.
(406) 413-9636 View (406) 413-9636
Photo of Desire Meismer, Counselor in Billings, MT
Desire Meismer
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout our lives we may encounter painful, traumatic, or difficult scenarios that leave us feeling hopeless or stuck. I believe every person has a resiliency and strength to pull from to achieve an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Sometimes we need outside support to tap into our full potential and to overcome challenges. My background includes addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and more.
Throughout our lives we may encounter painful, traumatic, or difficult scenarios that leave us feeling hopeless or stuck. I believe every person has a resiliency and strength to pull from to achieve an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Sometimes we need outside support to tap into our full potential and to overcome challenges. My background includes addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and more.
(406) 637-6497 View (406) 637-6497
Photo of Rachel Robertson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Rachel Robertson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with self-confidence or anxiety? Have you experienced grief or gone through trauma? Are you going through the adoption process or struggling with your identity as an adoptee? This can all greatly impact our personal and professional lives. It can make us want to retreat, isolate, and see ourselves in a negative light. Doing this, in turn, can lead into potential depression and not feeling like ourselves anymore. Yet, life has so much to offer, and you are here for a reason. You have a purpose and deserve to live a beautiful, happy and fulfilled life where you feel confident and capable of conquering those anxieties.
Do you struggle with self-confidence or anxiety? Have you experienced grief or gone through trauma? Are you going through the adoption process or struggling with your identity as an adoptee? This can all greatly impact our personal and professional lives. It can make us want to retreat, isolate, and see ourselves in a negative light. Doing this, in turn, can lead into potential depression and not feeling like ourselves anymore. Yet, life has so much to offer, and you are here for a reason. You have a purpose and deserve to live a beautiful, happy and fulfilled life where you feel confident and capable of conquering those anxieties.
(406) 642-0360 View (406) 642-0360
Photo of Jonathan C Angel, Counselor in Billings, MT
Jonathan C Angel
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My work with individuals and their families is based on a life time of personal and family experience learning to live with serious mental illness. I have spent much of my adult life involved in research through the National Institute of Mental Health, advocating for families and individuals through the National Alliance on Mental Illness and working with the most vulnerable populations through the Mental Health Center PACT program. I believe that everyone is capable of meaningful recovery through the pursuit of education, healing, and personal growth.
My work with individuals and their families is based on a life time of personal and family experience learning to live with serious mental illness. I have spent much of my adult life involved in research through the National Institute of Mental Health, advocating for families and individuals through the National Alliance on Mental Illness and working with the most vulnerable populations through the Mental Health Center PACT program. I believe that everyone is capable of meaningful recovery through the pursuit of education, healing, and personal growth.
(406) 876-4936 View (406) 876-4936

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Billings, MT

200+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Billings, MT who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
71% Self Esteem
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Allegiance
74% PacificSource

How Therapists in Billings, MT see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Billings?

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.