Therapists in Hot Springs, AR

Photo of https://trilakescounseling.com, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
https://trilakescounseling.com
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in helping adults of all ages. Life is often full of challenges throughout life. During those times a person often experiences a Crisis of Hope. I believe it is during those times of hopelessness there is an opportunity for growth and healing. Through a confidential and collaborative counseling process, you are capable of positive change.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in helping adults of all ages. Life is often full of challenges throughout life. During those times a person often experiences a Crisis of Hope. I believe it is during those times of hopelessness there is an opportunity for growth and healing. Through a confidential and collaborative counseling process, you are capable of positive change.
(501) 298-1318 View (501) 298-1318
Photo of Loretta Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Loretta Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
Are you open to trying new ways of gaining an understanding of yourself to feel empowered with making positive changes in your life? Each of us have our own unique story in life and at times, we can be challenged with how we deal with the ups and downs of life. Sometimes life events can have an impact on how we relate with others, view the world and ourselves. Sometimes these ups and downs can bring on feelings of sadness, confusion and frustration - when this happens, the expertise of a mental health professional can help.
Are you open to trying new ways of gaining an understanding of yourself to feel empowered with making positive changes in your life? Each of us have our own unique story in life and at times, we can be challenged with how we deal with the ups and downs of life. Sometimes life events can have an impact on how we relate with others, view the world and ourselves. Sometimes these ups and downs can bring on feelings of sadness, confusion and frustration - when this happens, the expertise of a mental health professional can help.
(501) 273-1182 View (501) 273-1182
Photo of Paula L Mercer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Paula L Mercer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CBC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
Having worked as a LCSW for over 24 years, I assist my clients in identifying the strengths and skills they already possess. Then strive to work with them to find practical skills that fit their lifestyle and are useful in helping them reach the goals they have set for themselves towards a much happier and peaceful life.
Having worked as a LCSW for over 24 years, I assist my clients in identifying the strengths and skills they already possess. Then strive to work with them to find practical skills that fit their lifestyle and are useful in helping them reach the goals they have set for themselves towards a much happier and peaceful life.
(501) 214-6438 View (501) 214-6438
Photo of Garrett Eller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Garrett Eller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
If you are in a crisis or life storm, and left feeling helpless, hopeless, or disappointed; there is HOPE. No matter what stage of life you are going through, or how scary the feelings and situations can be, brainspotting can help. I have been trained in brainspotting and have seen firsthand the healing it can bring. Our brains our powerful and unique, but often store unfinished business and unprocessed trauma which leaves emotional scars inside or even physical pain. But with this approach, you can leave feeling relieved and hopeful with quick responses.
If you are in a crisis or life storm, and left feeling helpless, hopeless, or disappointed; there is HOPE. No matter what stage of life you are going through, or how scary the feelings and situations can be, brainspotting can help. I have been trained in brainspotting and have seen firsthand the healing it can bring. Our brains our powerful and unique, but often store unfinished business and unprocessed trauma which leaves emotional scars inside or even physical pain. But with this approach, you can leave feeling relieved and hopeful with quick responses.
(501) 712-2815 View (501) 712-2815
Photo of Laurie Geurin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Laurie Geurin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Just by reading this, you are showing your strength and courage to take the first step to speak with a therapist. For many people, it is a scary step to make and keep a counseling appointment. People often worry and wonder things like, what will counseling be like, what will the therapist ask me, and will therapy really help me? When I meet you, I will commend you for your courage to come to counseling and we will discuss what brings you to counseling. Then we will make what I call a counseling GPS. This is a plan of how to get from where you are to where you want to be (through counseling).
Just by reading this, you are showing your strength and courage to take the first step to speak with a therapist. For many people, it is a scary step to make and keep a counseling appointment. People often worry and wonder things like, what will counseling be like, what will the therapist ask me, and will therapy really help me? When I meet you, I will commend you for your courage to come to counseling and we will discuss what brings you to counseling. Then we will make what I call a counseling GPS. This is a plan of how to get from where you are to where you want to be (through counseling).
(501) 426-6728 View (501) 426-6728
Photo of Deborah D Dennie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Deborah D Dennie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Are you living your "best life possible"? Do you have difficulty motivating yourself? Avoid certain situations? Frequently angry? Feel the need to control everything? Often feel misunderstood? Have difficulty trusting people? Abusing alcohol or drugs, in unhealthy relationships, or have lost a lot of jobs? Feel overwhelmed? Dealing with the loss of someone you love? Was/is there abuse or trauma in your life? Sometimes all of this is connected in your mind like a tangled ball of yarn.
Are you living your "best life possible"? Do you have difficulty motivating yourself? Avoid certain situations? Frequently angry? Feel the need to control everything? Often feel misunderstood? Have difficulty trusting people? Abusing alcohol or drugs, in unhealthy relationships, or have lost a lot of jobs? Feel overwhelmed? Dealing with the loss of someone you love? Was/is there abuse or trauma in your life? Sometimes all of this is connected in your mind like a tangled ball of yarn.
(501) 819-2194 View (501) 819-2194
Photo of Tayler Brickell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Tayler Brickell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, TA
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
You feel hopeless and fearful that you will never be able to get out of this dark place. You replay things that have happened in the past and somehow these things continue to pull you down. Your anxiety debilitates you and simple daily life tasks exhaust you. Vulnerability appears absolutely terrifying. First, it's uncomfortable talking through the struggles, yet it's uncomfortable holding it all inside. Whichever emotions or experiences that you battle, you are fully accepted. I welcome you to this safe space to just be yourself, as you process through the obstacles that led you to seek therapy.
You feel hopeless and fearful that you will never be able to get out of this dark place. You replay things that have happened in the past and somehow these things continue to pull you down. Your anxiety debilitates you and simple daily life tasks exhaust you. Vulnerability appears absolutely terrifying. First, it's uncomfortable talking through the struggles, yet it's uncomfortable holding it all inside. Whichever emotions or experiences that you battle, you are fully accepted. I welcome you to this safe space to just be yourself, as you process through the obstacles that led you to seek therapy.
(501) 509-9068 View (501) 509-9068
Photo of Lourene P Thaxton-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Lourene P Thaxton-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I specialize in treating grief and trauma, using EMDR in matters of unresolved disturbance. Whether someone suffers physical pain, anxiety, or the inability to sleep due to nightmares or disruptive memories, eye movement desensitization reprocessing can help alleviate the trauma of PTSD to help put the pieces of one’s life together following a disturbing event. Trauma takes many different forms as does healing, and healing disturbance is as individual as the individual him/herself. The best part of working with clients is helping to restore joy and insight to the client’s vision for life.
I specialize in treating grief and trauma, using EMDR in matters of unresolved disturbance. Whether someone suffers physical pain, anxiety, or the inability to sleep due to nightmares or disruptive memories, eye movement desensitization reprocessing can help alleviate the trauma of PTSD to help put the pieces of one’s life together following a disturbing event. Trauma takes many different forms as does healing, and healing disturbance is as individual as the individual him/herself. The best part of working with clients is helping to restore joy and insight to the client’s vision for life.
(501) 365-2623 View (501) 365-2623
Photo of Carolyn Jenkins McKamey, Psychologist in Hot Springs, AR
Carolyn Jenkins McKamey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
ACCEPTING PATIENTS In AR & TX. Life can knock you down and leave you feeling overwhelmed and not sure which way is up. I view therapy as a collaboration between you and I, working together to achieve the goals you would like to accomplish, rediscover your strengths, and develop healthier ways of coping and interacting with others. I teach skills to help you make positive changes while also identifying strengths you already possess to find hope among the ashes and restore balance in your life. My ideal client wants to work on: anxiety, stress, boundaries, assertiveness skills, depression, people-pleasing, OR codependency.
ACCEPTING PATIENTS In AR & TX. Life can knock you down and leave you feeling overwhelmed and not sure which way is up. I view therapy as a collaboration between you and I, working together to achieve the goals you would like to accomplish, rediscover your strengths, and develop healthier ways of coping and interacting with others. I teach skills to help you make positive changes while also identifying strengths you already possess to find hope among the ashes and restore balance in your life. My ideal client wants to work on: anxiety, stress, boundaries, assertiveness skills, depression, people-pleasing, OR codependency.
(501) 881-2392 View (501) 881-2392
Photo of Kenneth Scott Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Kenneth Scott Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913  (Online Only)
Whether this is your first time in counseling or you've been through it before, having the right therapist makes all the difference. That is one of several reasons you should always contact your potential provider for a free telephone consultation. First, ask questions, see how the interaction goes, and then make an informed choice.
Whether this is your first time in counseling or you've been through it before, having the right therapist makes all the difference. That is one of several reasons you should always contact your potential provider for a free telephone consultation. First, ask questions, see how the interaction goes, and then make an informed choice.
(501) 271-3997 View (501) 271-3997
Photo of Patrick Tyler Luse, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Patrick Tyler Luse
Counselor, LAC, MA, ADHD -, CCSP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about life's challenges? I believe that every individual, regardless of age, background, or situation, deserves support and healing. With compassion, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain clarity, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other personal struggle, I am here to help you navigate your journey towards personal growth and well-being. Don't face your transitions and milestones alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about life's challenges? I believe that every individual, regardless of age, background, or situation, deserves support and healing. With compassion, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain clarity, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other personal struggle, I am here to help you navigate your journey towards personal growth and well-being. Don't face your transitions and milestones alone.
(501) 386-4141 View (501) 386-4141
Photo of Tracy Terwilliger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Tracy Terwilliger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I have experience working with children through geriatric populations. I provide individual, family, relationship, and group services through telehealth. I will work with you to assist you to identify your needs and the goals you wish to achieve. I recognize that people can and do struggle with overwhelming emotions and sometimes need help to calm and overcome them. Some of these emotions are hardwired but others have come from the trauma a person has suffered in their life. I will work to assist you to develop coping skills to be better able to deal with your emotions and everyday life.
I have experience working with children through geriatric populations. I provide individual, family, relationship, and group services through telehealth. I will work with you to assist you to identify your needs and the goals you wish to achieve. I recognize that people can and do struggle with overwhelming emotions and sometimes need help to calm and overcome them. Some of these emotions are hardwired but others have come from the trauma a person has suffered in their life. I will work to assist you to develop coping skills to be better able to deal with your emotions and everyday life.
(501) 302-4693 View (501) 302-4693
Photo of Heather Bixler, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Heather Bixler
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Are you feeling broken, empty, detached, misunderstood, edgy, or depressed? Are relationship issues, uncontrollable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors overwhelming you? Don't be alone in your struggles. Connect with a caring and empathetic therapist. Join with me as we work together to discover who you are, what you want to accomplish in therapy, and we set out to achieve your goals.
Are you feeling broken, empty, detached, misunderstood, edgy, or depressed? Are relationship issues, uncontrollable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors overwhelming you? Don't be alone in your struggles. Connect with a caring and empathetic therapist. Join with me as we work together to discover who you are, what you want to accomplish in therapy, and we set out to achieve your goals.
(501) 430-3129 View (501) 430-3129
Photo of Taylor Chapman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Taylor Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
My goal in life is to help other people recognize their worth. I have experience communicating with adults and children who live with problematic behaviors, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or your child, please consider setting up an intake appointment with me.
My goal in life is to help other people recognize their worth. I have experience communicating with adults and children who live with problematic behaviors, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or your child, please consider setting up an intake appointment with me.
(501) 441-3542 View (501) 441-3542
Photo of Michael L Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Michael L Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, M Div, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Is your relationship facing challenges that seem insurmountable? Are you struggling to overcome the lingering effects of childhood trauma? Michael Evans offers a transformative therapeutic journey tailored to your unique needs. He is Certified in Relational Life Therapy under the guidance of Terry Real. Drawing from RLT principles, his sessions are centered around cultivating authentic connections and fostering healthy communication. As of 2024, Michael is an RLT Trainer working with therapists in the US, Canada, and Europe who are working to become certified in RLT and offering individual Case Consultations.
Is your relationship facing challenges that seem insurmountable? Are you struggling to overcome the lingering effects of childhood trauma? Michael Evans offers a transformative therapeutic journey tailored to your unique needs. He is Certified in Relational Life Therapy under the guidance of Terry Real. Drawing from RLT principles, his sessions are centered around cultivating authentic connections and fostering healthy communication. As of 2024, Michael is an RLT Trainer working with therapists in the US, Canada, and Europe who are working to become certified in RLT and offering individual Case Consultations.
(501) 791-9917 View (501) 791-9917
Photo of Heather Ramsay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Heather Ramsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
If you are someone who experienced a difficult childhood/early adulthood, I can probably guess a bit about you. You’re painfully hard on yourself…You feel like you are going crazy…You feel like you can’t trust yourself or anyone else and you wonder when those sleepless nights will ever end. There is another way! You can start to believe that you are ENOUGH and you MATTER! My 'heartbeat' is to guide women to find emotional freedom!
If you are someone who experienced a difficult childhood/early adulthood, I can probably guess a bit about you. You’re painfully hard on yourself…You feel like you are going crazy…You feel like you can’t trust yourself or anyone else and you wonder when those sleepless nights will ever end. There is another way! You can start to believe that you are ENOUGH and you MATTER! My 'heartbeat' is to guide women to find emotional freedom!
(870) 568-0832 View (870) 568-0832
Photo of Stephanie Hamilton, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Stephanie Hamilton
Counselor, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
We all have times that events take a toll on us mentally and emotionally. In some aspect we may try to push them down or avoid the existence of the issue. Maybe we have associations of weakness or feelings of inadequacy if we acknowledge those feelings or issues. I’m an LPC, CFRC with 12 years previous experience as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I am EMDR level 1 & 2 trained for trauma and PTSD therapy. Beyond responder therapy, I have experience with sexual abuse, codependency work, healing the inner child, and promoting your own self-worth.
We all have times that events take a toll on us mentally and emotionally. In some aspect we may try to push them down or avoid the existence of the issue. Maybe we have associations of weakness or feelings of inadequacy if we acknowledge those feelings or issues. I’m an LPC, CFRC with 12 years previous experience as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I am EMDR level 1 & 2 trained for trauma and PTSD therapy. Beyond responder therapy, I have experience with sexual abuse, codependency work, healing the inner child, and promoting your own self-worth.
(501) 238-6856 View (501) 238-6856
Photo of Dr. M. Kaye Ramsey, Psychologist in Hot Springs, AR
Dr. M. Kaye Ramsey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
I am a licensed mental health professional with over 11 years of clinical experience. My professional background is in Clinical Psychology with a Client-Centered focus. Client-Centered Counseling is a manner of being or an attitudinal approach that believes that positive change in people occurs in a therapeutic relationship with another person (a helper or a therapist) in which the helper provides unconditional positive regard, genuineness and empathy toward the client or patient. During my career, I have worked with all types of issues and in various stages of one’s life path.I am Looking forward to helping you.
I am a licensed mental health professional with over 11 years of clinical experience. My professional background is in Clinical Psychology with a Client-Centered focus. Client-Centered Counseling is a manner of being or an attitudinal approach that believes that positive change in people occurs in a therapeutic relationship with another person (a helper or a therapist) in which the helper provides unconditional positive regard, genuineness and empathy toward the client or patient. During my career, I have worked with all types of issues and in various stages of one’s life path.I am Looking forward to helping you.
(501) 299-9280 View (501) 299-9280
Photo of Victoria Porter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Victoria Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Grief and Loss are my specialty and grief counseling is the only counseling I do. I'm a Certified Compassionate Bereavement Care Provider, Advanced Palliative Hospice Social Worker-Certified (APHSW-C) and have worked in hospice and bereavement care for years. Are you feeling stuck in your sadness? Are you are experiencing negative thoughts and are not sure how to feel better? Maybe you are avoiding all thoughts about your loved one because it's too painful? You do not have to travel the grief journey alone. Grief counseling will not cure your grief. You grieve because you love, but, I can help you feel better.
Grief and Loss are my specialty and grief counseling is the only counseling I do. I'm a Certified Compassionate Bereavement Care Provider, Advanced Palliative Hospice Social Worker-Certified (APHSW-C) and have worked in hospice and bereavement care for years. Are you feeling stuck in your sadness? Are you are experiencing negative thoughts and are not sure how to feel better? Maybe you are avoiding all thoughts about your loved one because it's too painful? You do not have to travel the grief journey alone. Grief counseling will not cure your grief. You grieve because you love, but, I can help you feel better.
(501) 214-4232 View (501) 214-4232
Photo of Jennifer L Embry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Jennifer L Embry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDRCT, PLLC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Life can be hard; there are times when we all need a little help with life’s problems and challenges. Taking the step to see a therapist can be like opening a new door. I have a deep respect for the individual human spirit and a true belief in the therapeutic relationship as a means of creating change. I simply want to help anyone who wants to be helped.
Life can be hard; there are times when we all need a little help with life’s problems and challenges. Taking the step to see a therapist can be like opening a new door. I have a deep respect for the individual human spirit and a true belief in the therapeutic relationship as a means of creating change. I simply want to help anyone who wants to be helped.
(501) 302-2988 View (501) 302-2988

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hot Springs, AR

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hot Springs, AR who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
86% Depression
83% Trauma and PTSD
79% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
70% Coping Skills
70% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% BlueCross and BlueShield
60% Ambetter
57% Health Advantage

How Therapists in Hot Springs, AR see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hot Springs?

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.