Therapists in Monterey, CA

Photo of Julie Hassen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Monterey, CA
Julie Hassen
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
As an eco- and climate-informed therapist, I combine my backgrounds in Marine Science, Environmental Psychology, and Clinical Social Work to help folks who struggle with a wide range of concerns, including climate change or eco-anxiety/grief/depression. Sometimes global issues can impact our own lives and contribute to things like anxiety and depression, and even cause trauma and physical illness. I also have expertise working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and suicidal ideation.
As an eco- and climate-informed therapist, I combine my backgrounds in Marine Science, Environmental Psychology, and Clinical Social Work to help folks who struggle with a wide range of concerns, including climate change or eco-anxiety/grief/depression. Sometimes global issues can impact our own lives and contribute to things like anxiety and depression, and even cause trauma and physical illness. I also have expertise working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and suicidal ideation.
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Photo of Stephanie Chastain, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Stephanie Chastain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Not accepting new clients
If you are experiencing life’s bumps in the road, or feeling like you’re stuck, I can help. I am available to provide you and your family with compassionate, non-judgmental guidance. With 25 years experience, I specialize in relationships, couples, marital issues, divorce recovery, blended families, step parenting, women’s issues and transitions, mid-life changes, step parenting, blended families and military families.
If you are experiencing life’s bumps in the road, or feeling like you’re stuck, I can help. I am available to provide you and your family with compassionate, non-judgmental guidance. With 25 years experience, I specialize in relationships, couples, marital issues, divorce recovery, blended families, step parenting, women’s issues and transitions, mid-life changes, step parenting, blended families and military families.
(831) 216-5385 View (831) 216-5385
Photo of Lani Chin, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Lani Chin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
There are many reasons why you might be looking for a therapist: help with a long term struggle, support during a current life situation, and/or your personal growth. Whatever your reasons, I know how important it is to find a therapist you can develop a solid relationship with. In our work together we will come to understand more about what isn't working. You may be feeling stuck, sad, alone, consumed by rage, or unsatisfied. You and I will work together to build a trusting and non-judgmental relationship where you feel safe to talk about yourself openly.
There are many reasons why you might be looking for a therapist: help with a long term struggle, support during a current life situation, and/or your personal growth. Whatever your reasons, I know how important it is to find a therapist you can develop a solid relationship with. In our work together we will come to understand more about what isn't working. You may be feeling stuck, sad, alone, consumed by rage, or unsatisfied. You and I will work together to build a trusting and non-judgmental relationship where you feel safe to talk about yourself openly.
(831) 264-1617 View (831) 264-1617
Photo of Emily C. Julian, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Emily C. Julian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychologist experienced in working with adolescents and adults. I create an empathic, collaborative, encouraging environment that allows people to explore their identity and relationships to live a more fulfilling life. I build a therapeutic relationship on mutual respect and support people in using their strengths to overcome challenges. I believe that discovering and developing a sense of purpose is an important part of the healing process.
I am a licensed psychologist experienced in working with adolescents and adults. I create an empathic, collaborative, encouraging environment that allows people to explore their identity and relationships to live a more fulfilling life. I build a therapeutic relationship on mutual respect and support people in using their strengths to overcome challenges. I believe that discovering and developing a sense of purpose is an important part of the healing process.
(415) 237-6283 View (415) 237-6283
Photo of Sarah Laws, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Sarah Laws
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93943  (Online Only)
Change is hard. Really hard. Finding the habits, thoughts, and chains that hold you back from the life you want to live, then shifting towards the habits, thoughts, and paths that help you live your core values and pursue the life you want is a journey that is so worthwhile, but fraught with doubts and steps backwards. I say this not to discourage you, but to be honest and up front. If you're ready to put in the work to change then I want to help you achieve that change.
Change is hard. Really hard. Finding the habits, thoughts, and chains that hold you back from the life you want to live, then shifting towards the habits, thoughts, and paths that help you live your core values and pursue the life you want is a journey that is so worthwhile, but fraught with doubts and steps backwards. I say this not to discourage you, but to be honest and up front. If you're ready to put in the work to change then I want to help you achieve that change.
(831) 291-4294 View (831) 291-4294
Photo of Jolene Coe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Jolene Coe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
Your time is precious. Unfortunately, feelings of hurt, disappointment and invalidation can affect your journey in ways you don't choose. You might feel trapped by negative life experiences, isolated by your situation or anxious about your future. If you feel unable to make the most of the here and now, for whatever reason, then this is the perfect time to take action and seek help. Many of us struggle to prioritize our own well-being, and I know therapy can be daunting, but it could be the first step in working towards the life you deserve.
Your time is precious. Unfortunately, feelings of hurt, disappointment and invalidation can affect your journey in ways you don't choose. You might feel trapped by negative life experiences, isolated by your situation or anxious about your future. If you feel unable to make the most of the here and now, for whatever reason, then this is the perfect time to take action and seek help. Many of us struggle to prioritize our own well-being, and I know therapy can be daunting, but it could be the first step in working towards the life you deserve.
(831) 480-9263 View (831) 480-9263
Photo of Meagan Maddock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Meagan Maddock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Welcome! Whether you’re starting your therapy journey for the first time or looking to continue with a new therapist, I’m glad you’re here. I work primarily with adults and adolescents who are ready for the ride of self-exploration, and are looking to relieve suffering and build a meaningful life. Many of my clients are newcomer immigrants or children of immigrants who are looking to explore their identities, their relationships, and the impacts of oppressive systems on their mental health. As a white therapist, I hold tightly to the values of humility, accountability, and reparative justice.
Welcome! Whether you’re starting your therapy journey for the first time or looking to continue with a new therapist, I’m glad you’re here. I work primarily with adults and adolescents who are ready for the ride of self-exploration, and are looking to relieve suffering and build a meaningful life. Many of my clients are newcomer immigrants or children of immigrants who are looking to explore their identities, their relationships, and the impacts of oppressive systems on their mental health. As a white therapist, I hold tightly to the values of humility, accountability, and reparative justice.
(831) 618-1051 View (831) 618-1051
Photo of James Charles Dimke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
James Charles Dimke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Hello, My name is Jim Dimke. If you're reading this, you're looking for a therapist and that can be an overwhelming task. Allow me to help. I work with a variety of different populations, using an eclectic approach so that I can tailor therapy to meet your needs. My school of thought is that you know yourself better than anyone and therapy simply will expedite the process of finding the answers that you're looking for. I use a variety of theoretical orientations but am partial to a solution-focused and person-centered approach.
Hello, My name is Jim Dimke. If you're reading this, you're looking for a therapist and that can be an overwhelming task. Allow me to help. I work with a variety of different populations, using an eclectic approach so that I can tailor therapy to meet your needs. My school of thought is that you know yourself better than anyone and therapy simply will expedite the process of finding the answers that you're looking for. I use a variety of theoretical orientations but am partial to a solution-focused and person-centered approach.
(831) 713-2298 View (831) 713-2298
Photo of Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc., Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
(831) 222-6388 View (831) 222-6388
Photo of Larry B Kerkhoff Psy.d, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Larry B Kerkhoff Psy.d
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting Aspire (MBIPA), Aspire Medicare Advantage, TriWest, TriCare insurance and private pay clients at the present time. I have a full practice but do try to squeeze new clients in. My calm and friendly demeanor puts people at ease and promotes a safe and nurturing counseling environment. I chose this second career to help people navigate through the obstacles and pain in their life. My comforting and supportive style helps instill hope, peace, and spirituality. I have the life experiences plus a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to help you discover the needed tools for your personal relationship toolbox.
Accepting Aspire (MBIPA), Aspire Medicare Advantage, TriWest, TriCare insurance and private pay clients at the present time. I have a full practice but do try to squeeze new clients in. My calm and friendly demeanor puts people at ease and promotes a safe and nurturing counseling environment. I chose this second career to help people navigate through the obstacles and pain in their life. My comforting and supportive style helps instill hope, peace, and spirituality. I have the life experiences plus a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy to help you discover the needed tools for your personal relationship toolbox.
(831) 664-9658 View (831) 664-9658
Photo of Marilee G. Ruebsamen, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Marilee G. Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260
Photo of Zoe Avalon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Zoe Avalon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
We live in a demanding era in which the choices and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, causing both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict. Therapy is the process of change, generating self-affirming thought patterns towards a hopeful and resilient future, a centered and balanced life.
We live in a demanding era in which the choices and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, causing both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict. Therapy is the process of change, generating self-affirming thought patterns towards a hopeful and resilient future, a centered and balanced life.
(831) 593-4106 View (831) 593-4106
Photo of Kirsten Yackley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Kirsten Yackley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Welcome! I work with individual adults and adolescents who are feeling stuck and desiring some sort of shift in their lives. This can look like a a life transition (going to college, career change, etc), relationship with yourself (the way you view and treat yourself), or shifting your overall mood (anxiety, depression, trauma). I aim to be a partner in change, rather than the expert on your life. I help people understand why they do the things they do by exploring how their past impacts their present day functioning. I offer tools for you to use in the present moment while we are gaining awareness of your patterns.
Welcome! I work with individual adults and adolescents who are feeling stuck and desiring some sort of shift in their lives. This can look like a a life transition (going to college, career change, etc), relationship with yourself (the way you view and treat yourself), or shifting your overall mood (anxiety, depression, trauma). I aim to be a partner in change, rather than the expert on your life. I help people understand why they do the things they do by exploring how their past impacts their present day functioning. I offer tools for you to use in the present moment while we are gaining awareness of your patterns.
(831) 249-2182 View (831) 249-2182
Photo of Arayeh Norouzi in Monterey, CA
Arayeh Norouzi
PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Greetings with love! I'm Dr. Arayeh. I have a Ph.D. in psychology, and I am a joyful living coach in personal healing, relationships, conscious parenting, and corporate mindfulness training. I am also the bestselling author of The Art of Living in Joy: Five Practical Steps to Transform Life Challenges into Joy and Harmony, featured in the Monterey Herald Newspaper. I combine science with heart-based tools to empower you to transform anger, anxiety, grief, overwhelm, or procrastination into joy, growth, and productivity and build harmonious relationships at home and work.
Greetings with love! I'm Dr. Arayeh. I have a Ph.D. in psychology, and I am a joyful living coach in personal healing, relationships, conscious parenting, and corporate mindfulness training. I am also the bestselling author of The Art of Living in Joy: Five Practical Steps to Transform Life Challenges into Joy and Harmony, featured in the Monterey Herald Newspaper. I combine science with heart-based tools to empower you to transform anger, anxiety, grief, overwhelm, or procrastination into joy, growth, and productivity and build harmonious relationships at home and work.
(831) 228-6032 View (831) 228-6032
Photo of Saralinda Subbiondo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Saralinda Subbiondo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
My approach is generally solution-focused, and based on the premise that it's easier to make changes based on our strengths than our deficits. My style is down-to-earth, friendly, and collaborative. There is no problem too big that we can’t resolve together in a collaborative style. I build a therapeutic relationship on mutual respect and support people in using their strengths to overcome challenges. I very much enjoy my work and consider it an honor to be invited into the lives of the people with whom I work.
My approach is generally solution-focused, and based on the premise that it's easier to make changes based on our strengths than our deficits. My style is down-to-earth, friendly, and collaborative. There is no problem too big that we can’t resolve together in a collaborative style. I build a therapeutic relationship on mutual respect and support people in using their strengths to overcome challenges. I very much enjoy my work and consider it an honor to be invited into the lives of the people with whom I work.
(424) 404-8749 View (424) 404-8749
Photo of Susan Valkenaar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Susan Valkenaar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC-CA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
When people make a choice to utilize therapy to change their lives, I believe there is no greater gift they can give themselves. I am so lucky to have made helping people change their lives into my full time career.
When people make a choice to utilize therapy to change their lives, I believe there is no greater gift they can give themselves. I am so lucky to have made helping people change their lives into my full time career.
(408) 606-2416 View (408) 606-2416
Photo of Jessica Cooper, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Jessica Cooper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be a meaningful experience that supports you in building healthy coping skills, better understanding yourself, and enacting desired life changes. I am a licensed psychologist with 16 years of experience providing individual and group psychotherapy. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I strive to provide culturally sensitive therapy that honors your intersecting identities. I utilize a strength-based, trauma-informed lens and work to create a relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and understood in their lived experiences.
Therapy can be a meaningful experience that supports you in building healthy coping skills, better understanding yourself, and enacting desired life changes. I am a licensed psychologist with 16 years of experience providing individual and group psychotherapy. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I strive to provide culturally sensitive therapy that honors your intersecting identities. I utilize a strength-based, trauma-informed lens and work to create a relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and understood in their lived experiences.
(831) 292-3965 View (831) 292-3965
Photo of Alcala Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Alcala Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93942  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been in this profession for over 14 years. My experience has been working with children, teens, and adults from different socioeconomic backgrounds and ethnicities. I feel passionate about providing support to help navigate imposter syndrome, first-generation challenges, stress management, work-life balance, and career issues. I have extensive experience working with clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and parenting. I specialize in providing culturally competent and solution-focused psychotherapy. I am also a Certified Yoga Teacher and I implement yoga with my clients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been in this profession for over 14 years. My experience has been working with children, teens, and adults from different socioeconomic backgrounds and ethnicities. I feel passionate about providing support to help navigate imposter syndrome, first-generation challenges, stress management, work-life balance, and career issues. I have extensive experience working with clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and parenting. I specialize in providing culturally competent and solution-focused psychotherapy. I am also a Certified Yoga Teacher and I implement yoga with my clients.
(831) 851-1210 View (831) 851-1210
Photo of Brenda Lang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Brenda Lang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Having made major life and career changes myself(from CPA to MFT)gives me a unique ability to help clients who have emotional issues related to financial, career or life transition issues. I have also worked as a middle school counselor, which helps me in working with teens and families. My clinical areas of expertise include issues related to relationships and communication, career counseling, employment, education and money or life transition. I also work with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss. I work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents.
Having made major life and career changes myself(from CPA to MFT)gives me a unique ability to help clients who have emotional issues related to financial, career or life transition issues. I have also worked as a middle school counselor, which helps me in working with teens and families. My clinical areas of expertise include issues related to relationships and communication, career counseling, employment, education and money or life transition. I also work with depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss. I work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents.
(831) 250-6969 View (831) 250-6969
Photo of Christine Morris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Christine Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
I seek to provide a place where clients can feel safe to explore areas in their life where they desire healing and change. In a world of demands, we all need to take the time to care for ourselves. This includes being equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve goals and a fuller life.
I seek to provide a place where clients can feel safe to explore areas in their life where they desire healing and change. In a world of demands, we all need to take the time to care for ourselves. This includes being equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve goals and a fuller life.
(831) 709-9133 View (831) 709-9133

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Monterey, CA

200+

Average cost per session

$161

Therapists in Monterey, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

44% Aetna
42% Other
37% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Monterey, CA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Monterey?

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.