Therapists in Beaufort, SC

Photo of Excel at Being Yourself, LLC in Beaufort, SC
Excel at Being Yourself, LLC
PhD
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29903  (Online Only)
Greetings. I am Dr. Dannetta Rivers. Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. Take a look around and send me an email with questions you have on what sessions would be like. I am happy to answer!
Greetings. I am Dr. Dannetta Rivers. Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. Take a look around and send me an email with questions you have on what sessions would be like. I am happy to answer!
(843) 865-2036 View (843) 865-2036
Photo of Jennifer Irlbacher, LPC Intern in Beaufort, SC
Jennifer Irlbacher
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29902
For me, therapy is a first and foremost relationship between myself and a client. The focus is you, what you bring into the therapy room, your emotions, your lived experiences, and your hopes, fears, needs, desires, and wish for a different experience in life. I’ve always liked to listen and observe the world around me, and I like to bring that side of me into the therapy room with you. I welcome clients from all walks of life and offer support, meeting you where you are now- even if we’re working toward a new goal or phase of life.
For me, therapy is a first and foremost relationship between myself and a client. The focus is you, what you bring into the therapy room, your emotions, your lived experiences, and your hopes, fears, needs, desires, and wish for a different experience in life. I’ve always liked to listen and observe the world around me, and I like to bring that side of me into the therapy room with you. I welcome clients from all walks of life and offer support, meeting you where you are now- even if we’re working toward a new goal or phase of life.
(843) 508-9905 View (843) 508-9905
Photo of Lauren Nelson, LPC Associate in Beaufort, SC
Lauren Nelson
LPC Associate, EdS, LPES, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29902  (Online Only)
Nothing makes me happier than having the opportunity to help all walks of life heal from the past, align with the present, and attain the stepping-stones they merit to build fulfilled, happy, and balanced lives. From tailored evaluations to executing actionable steps, I enjoy supporting others on their journey to overcoming adversities hindering them personally, academically, and professionally. I believe that mental health healing is not a race, and that everyone has the ability to break past emotional, physical, and mental blocks to progress into the best versions of themselves.
Nothing makes me happier than having the opportunity to help all walks of life heal from the past, align with the present, and attain the stepping-stones they merit to build fulfilled, happy, and balanced lives. From tailored evaluations to executing actionable steps, I enjoy supporting others on their journey to overcoming adversities hindering them personally, academically, and professionally. I believe that mental health healing is not a race, and that everyone has the ability to break past emotional, physical, and mental blocks to progress into the best versions of themselves.
(803) 836-9130 View (803) 836-9130
Photo of Maria Barber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Maria Barber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29906
Hi, I specialize in addressing relationship issues with significant others through individual, couple, and family therapy, including working towards healing relationship traumas. If you are feeling disappointed, hurt, maybe angry, overwhelmed, perhaps confused, lost, and broken, and if you are ready to change that, I am here for you. Together we can work on healing those parts of you that keep you stuck in a place of pain or work on changing those aspects of your relationship that deprive you of the love and connection that you deserve. I work from a systemic perspective and I am a Certified Trauma Professional.
Hi, I specialize in addressing relationship issues with significant others through individual, couple, and family therapy, including working towards healing relationship traumas. If you are feeling disappointed, hurt, maybe angry, overwhelmed, perhaps confused, lost, and broken, and if you are ready to change that, I am here for you. Together we can work on healing those parts of you that keep you stuck in a place of pain or work on changing those aspects of your relationship that deprive you of the love and connection that you deserve. I work from a systemic perspective and I am a Certified Trauma Professional.
(843) 401-3419 View (843) 401-3419
Photo of Jerry Stewart MEd LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaufort, SC
Jerry Stewart MEd LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29902  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use a client-centered approach to work with adults dealing with issues of trauma and abuse, divorce, aging, life transitions, mood disorders including depression, and anxiety. With over 25 years of experience in providing mental health services in both public and private settings, I have a depth of training and expertise to help you deal with issues that are creating obstacles to living the life you want to live. My practice is associated with Bridges Psychiatry with offices in Charleston and Beaufort.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use a client-centered approach to work with adults dealing with issues of trauma and abuse, divorce, aging, life transitions, mood disorders including depression, and anxiety. With over 25 years of experience in providing mental health services in both public and private settings, I have a depth of training and expertise to help you deal with issues that are creating obstacles to living the life you want to live. My practice is associated with Bridges Psychiatry with offices in Charleston and Beaufort.
(843) 639-4622 View (843) 639-4622
Photo of Alex Williams in Beaufort, SC
Alex Williams
LPCC, LPCA, ATR-P, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling disconnected, anxious, depressed, or like you are struggling to feel heard? Using art therapy, mindfulness techniques, active listening, and an eclectic approach with a present focus, I hope to meet you where you are at on your journey to attaining your goals. Your goals will drive our work together and, as we get to know one another, I may suggest goals during our time. I believe that there are no miracle cures, YOU are the miracle! Change can be uncomfortable, and even painful at times, and my goal is to be there to support you as you grow and learn new, personally meaningful ways of thriving in our world.
Have you been feeling disconnected, anxious, depressed, or like you are struggling to feel heard? Using art therapy, mindfulness techniques, active listening, and an eclectic approach with a present focus, I hope to meet you where you are at on your journey to attaining your goals. Your goals will drive our work together and, as we get to know one another, I may suggest goals during our time. I believe that there are no miracle cures, YOU are the miracle! Change can be uncomfortable, and even painful at times, and my goal is to be there to support you as you grow and learn new, personally meaningful ways of thriving in our world.
(843) 890-2159 View (843) 890-2159
Photo of Marbrid,LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Marbrid,LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902  (Online Only)
Greetings and welcome to my profile. It has been so challenging the last 4 years navigating the uncertainties of the post-pandemic world. It has created a "collective crisis" of isolation, identity and overall loss of purpose and meaning in life. The potential for personal growth is limitless even in the darkest spaces. I would like to offer you my clinical expertise and compassion to help you reclaim your personal power and resiliency. Please read my profile below for more information on my passion for working the Love Languages with Couples and building hope and resilience into Law Enforcement and the Military challenged by PTS.
Greetings and welcome to my profile. It has been so challenging the last 4 years navigating the uncertainties of the post-pandemic world. It has created a "collective crisis" of isolation, identity and overall loss of purpose and meaning in life. The potential for personal growth is limitless even in the darkest spaces. I would like to offer you my clinical expertise and compassion to help you reclaim your personal power and resiliency. Please read my profile below for more information on my passion for working the Love Languages with Couples and building hope and resilience into Law Enforcement and the Military challenged by PTS.
(843) 427-3741 View (843) 427-3741
Photo of Liz Esch - Counseling And Play Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Liz Esch - Counseling And Play Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RPT-S, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29906
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor with 20 years of experience providing therapeutic services for children, adolescents, families and adults of all ages. I am a highly skilled and compassionate therapist who has served a diverse clientele including at-risk youth, military families, adults struggling with depression and anxiety, domestic violence victims, senior adults, foster children, families experiencing divorce, and more. I believe in tailoring every session to the needs of that unique individual or family. Children, teens and adults of all ages are welcome!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor with 20 years of experience providing therapeutic services for children, adolescents, families and adults of all ages. I am a highly skilled and compassionate therapist who has served a diverse clientele including at-risk youth, military families, adults struggling with depression and anxiety, domestic violence victims, senior adults, foster children, families experiencing divorce, and more. I believe in tailoring every session to the needs of that unique individual or family. Children, teens and adults of all ages are welcome!
(843) 492-5248 View (843) 492-5248
Photo of The Door’s Open Therapy , Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaufort, SC
The Door’s Open Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29907
Negative self thoughts, trauma, and the fear of stigma can often lead to hiding parts of ourselves. When there is an imbalance between our inner selves and what we present to the world around us, it can cause us to experience feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, and shame. It can feel impossible to imagine a life that isn't overshadowed by these feelings. My goal is to assist you in becoming self empowered to address the barriers that have held you back for so long from living as your authentic self.
Negative self thoughts, trauma, and the fear of stigma can often lead to hiding parts of ourselves. When there is an imbalance between our inner selves and what we present to the world around us, it can cause us to experience feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, and shame. It can feel impossible to imagine a life that isn't overshadowed by these feelings. My goal is to assist you in becoming self empowered to address the barriers that have held you back for so long from living as your authentic self.
(843) 920-3052 View (843) 920-3052
Photo of From Surviving to Thriving, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaufort, SC
From Surviving to Thriving, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, MAC, CACI
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902
Are you experiencing, pain, problems, or pressures in your life and want to become a better version of yourself? I am here to help.
Are you experiencing, pain, problems, or pressures in your life and want to become a better version of yourself? I am here to help.
(843) 305-3621 View (843) 305-3621
Photo of Ashton Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaufort, SC
Ashton Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29902
As far as anyone knows, you’ve got it together. Despite being intelligent and hard working, you just can't shake the feelings of inadequacy- no matter how much you've accomplished. You're not one to ask for help because you think you should be able to fix everything on your own. Maybe your relationships are suffering or you're just plain exhausted and at the end of your rope. Maybe it's time to put yourself first. I help people like you learn how to to relax, prioritize their goals, and realize their worth without having to "earn" it or rely on external circumstances to feel like they are enough.
As far as anyone knows, you’ve got it together. Despite being intelligent and hard working, you just can't shake the feelings of inadequacy- no matter how much you've accomplished. You're not one to ask for help because you think you should be able to fix everything on your own. Maybe your relationships are suffering or you're just plain exhausted and at the end of your rope. Maybe it's time to put yourself first. I help people like you learn how to to relax, prioritize their goals, and realize their worth without having to "earn" it or rely on external circumstances to feel like they are enough.
(843) 865-2412 View (843) 865-2412
Photo of Dr. Carol Erb, LLC, Counselor in Beaufort, SC
Dr. Carol Erb, LLC
Counselor, PhD, BCCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29902  (Online Only)
You can't get over your husband betraying your trust. You're feeling heartbroken and lost because you discovered that your husband has cheated on you and you don't know where to turn. You're wondering if you can ever trust your husband again and are thinking you're in need of some outside help. With the right guidance and support, you can heal from your husband's affair without fear of the future trusting in God’s plan for your life. I will show you how to navigate the healing and recovery process so you can step into a brighter and more hopeful future.
You can't get over your husband betraying your trust. You're feeling heartbroken and lost because you discovered that your husband has cheated on you and you don't know where to turn. You're wondering if you can ever trust your husband again and are thinking you're in need of some outside help. With the right guidance and support, you can heal from your husband's affair without fear of the future trusting in God’s plan for your life. I will show you how to navigate the healing and recovery process so you can step into a brighter and more hopeful future.
(843) 905-2385 View (843) 905-2385
Photo of Anna Zweede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Anna Zweede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29907
Welcome! Thank you for being here and taking the next step in your wellness journey. Embarking on a wellness journey takes courage. The courage to look within. Do you ever find yourself so busy taking care of others, you have forgotten how to take care of yourself? Have you found yourself on the “hamster wheel of life”, simply surviving, and are now looking up and thinking, “how did I get here?” Or, have you found your path to wellness and want to continue being the best you? No matter which of these it may be, welcome! You are in a safe place with a safe person. A place without judgement where you can fully discover and be yourself
Welcome! Thank you for being here and taking the next step in your wellness journey. Embarking on a wellness journey takes courage. The courage to look within. Do you ever find yourself so busy taking care of others, you have forgotten how to take care of yourself? Have you found yourself on the “hamster wheel of life”, simply surviving, and are now looking up and thinking, “how did I get here?” Or, have you found your path to wellness and want to continue being the best you? No matter which of these it may be, welcome! You are in a safe place with a safe person. A place without judgement where you can fully discover and be yourself
(843) 380-6986 View (843) 380-6986
Photo of Jennifer Marie Mohorovic, Psychologist in Beaufort, SC
Jennifer Marie Mohorovic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902  (Online Only)
Life not going as planned? Do you feel stuck moving forward? Are your relationships or marriage suffering? Feeling down or anxious? Do you find yourself pulling away from people and activities you love? Do memories you would rather bury away keep popping back up at the wrong time? Do others comment that you just do not seem like your normal self? Does it seem like you keep trying and nothing seems to work? Do you feel emotionally overwhelmed? Is your sleep suffering? Life is a journey with ups and downs. It does not have to be this hard and you do not need to do it alone. There are ways to make it better.
Life not going as planned? Do you feel stuck moving forward? Are your relationships or marriage suffering? Feeling down or anxious? Do you find yourself pulling away from people and activities you love? Do memories you would rather bury away keep popping back up at the wrong time? Do others comment that you just do not seem like your normal self? Does it seem like you keep trying and nothing seems to work? Do you feel emotionally overwhelmed? Is your sleep suffering? Life is a journey with ups and downs. It does not have to be this hard and you do not need to do it alone. There are ways to make it better.
(843) 905-2329 View (843) 905-2329
Photo of Royce V Malphrus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Royce V Malphrus
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902
My 50 years of experience in the behavioral change and personal growth and potential field has afforded many experiences in many facilities, currently a private practice setting. My therapeutic approach is multifaceted, focused on solutions. Psychophysiology is another area of emphasis for me and I address this with Biofeedback, Neurofeedback and Passive Infrared Hemoencephalogrophy, procedures effective for anxiety, stress mangaement, chronic pain, ADD, and optimal performance.
My 50 years of experience in the behavioral change and personal growth and potential field has afforded many experiences in many facilities, currently a private practice setting. My therapeutic approach is multifaceted, focused on solutions. Psychophysiology is another area of emphasis for me and I address this with Biofeedback, Neurofeedback and Passive Infrared Hemoencephalogrophy, procedures effective for anxiety, stress mangaement, chronic pain, ADD, and optimal performance.
(843) 751-4665 View (843) 751-4665
Photo of Nancy Polstein, Psychologist in Beaufort, SC
Nancy Polstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29907
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been treating clients for over twenty five years. The decision to explore counseling can be a tough one and I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out for help. I offer counseling that is respectful, solution focused, interactive and sometimes even fun.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been treating clients for over twenty five years. The decision to explore counseling can be a tough one and I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out for help. I offer counseling that is respectful, solution focused, interactive and sometimes even fun.
(203) 916-5498 View (203) 916-5498
Photo of Ashley Gruber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaufort, SC
Ashley Gruber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29907  (Online Only)
Welcome! Like sea glass, it can take time and endurance to evolve into your best self; for life’s transitions, traumas and stressors to smooth. I offer an experienced, client-centered approach providing the confidentiality, safe space and highly customized positive guidance to help you become more functional, seek emotional relief, and identify your next steps. Through individualized sessions, I actively partner with you to process challenges and outline potential ways to maintain control in your life. You are in charge of deciding what changes you want to make—I provide the structure to help.
Welcome! Like sea glass, it can take time and endurance to evolve into your best self; for life’s transitions, traumas and stressors to smooth. I offer an experienced, client-centered approach providing the confidentiality, safe space and highly customized positive guidance to help you become more functional, seek emotional relief, and identify your next steps. Through individualized sessions, I actively partner with you to process challenges and outline potential ways to maintain control in your life. You are in charge of deciding what changes you want to make—I provide the structure to help.
(843) 929-7170 View (843) 929-7170
Photo of Bailey Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Bailey Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902
Now Accepting New Clients. Life is a journey with no shortage of challenges. We encounter these as we navigate parenthood or face many types of grief and loss. At times things become overwhelming and we need someone to journey with and guide us through managing stress and anxiety in order to cope and regain a sense of control. We all need a safe place to explore our thoughts and feelings to help us make sense of our world.
Now Accepting New Clients. Life is a journey with no shortage of challenges. We encounter these as we navigate parenthood or face many types of grief and loss. At times things become overwhelming and we need someone to journey with and guide us through managing stress and anxiety in order to cope and regain a sense of control. We all need a safe place to explore our thoughts and feelings to help us make sense of our world.
(843) 920-4801 View (843) 920-4801
Photo of Brittany Stilwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaufort, SC
Brittany Stilwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29902
Hi there! My name is Brittany Stilwell. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I serve a wide variety of the population including individuals, couples, and families. My goal is to offer a systematic approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs while providing a safe, supportive atmosphere for them to achieve the personal growth they desire. We all need help at times, and I find it to be a great honor for others to allow me the opportunity to give them the support they need while going through life's changes.
Hi there! My name is Brittany Stilwell. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I serve a wide variety of the population including individuals, couples, and families. My goal is to offer a systematic approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs while providing a safe, supportive atmosphere for them to achieve the personal growth they desire. We all need help at times, and I find it to be a great honor for others to allow me the opportunity to give them the support they need while going through life's changes.
(864) 568-0252 View (864) 568-0252
Photo of Lynn B Strange, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaufort, SC
Lynn B Strange
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29902
My role as a therapist is to provide a safe space where we can develop a trusting and respectful relationship to navigate challenging times and facilitate healing. The decision to seek professional help can be difficult and I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out for support. You may be dealing with troublesome relationships, health issues, caretaking concerns, aging, depression, anxiety or loss of a loved one. I believe the potential for change is always present. My therapeutic process is collaborative and integrates a variety of approaches targeted to help you find relief and foster emotional healing.
My role as a therapist is to provide a safe space where we can develop a trusting and respectful relationship to navigate challenging times and facilitate healing. The decision to seek professional help can be difficult and I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out for support. You may be dealing with troublesome relationships, health issues, caretaking concerns, aging, depression, anxiety or loss of a loved one. I believe the potential for change is always present. My therapeutic process is collaborative and integrates a variety of approaches targeted to help you find relief and foster emotional healing.
(855) 640-1878 View (855) 640-1878

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Beaufort, SC

70+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Beaufort, SC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Relationship Issues
84% Depression
83% Coping Skills
82% Self Esteem
72% Stress
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% BlueCross and BlueShield
49% Aetna
46% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Beaufort, SC see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Beaufort?

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.