Therapists in Beachwood, OH

Photo of Benjamin Miller - Psychology Partners of Ohio, LTD, Psychologist
Psychology Partners of Ohio, LTD
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
At Psychology Partners of Ohio we conduct comprehensive Forensic Evaluations for juveniles and adults referred by attorneys, courts, government agencies, private sector businesses, and self-referrals. We provide direct feedback to the referring party and render thorough forensic reports including responses to specific referral questions, diagnostic determinations, and treatment recommendations. Expert Testimony services are also available.
At Psychology Partners of Ohio we conduct comprehensive Forensic Evaluations for juveniles and adults referred by attorneys, courts, government agencies, private sector businesses, and self-referrals. We provide direct feedback to the referring party and render thorough forensic reports including responses to specific referral questions, diagnostic determinations, and treatment recommendations. Expert Testimony services are also available.
(216) 877-9338 View (216) 877-9338
Photo of Brittany Riffle, PC, Counselor
Brittany Riffle
Counselor, PC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Brittany Riffle is a Counselor Trainee (CT) and graduate student in the Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Lock Haven University. She is currently completing her practicum and internship at LifeStance Health. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Akron in 2020 and has since completed graduate certificates in Trauma-Informed Care and Telemental Health Counseling.
Brittany Riffle is a Counselor Trainee (CT) and graduate student in the Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Lock Haven University. She is currently completing her practicum and internship at LifeStance Health. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Akron in 2020 and has since completed graduate certificates in Trauma-Informed Care and Telemental Health Counseling.
(216) 208-4617 View (216) 208-4617
Photo of Judi Miller Levy, LISW-S, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judi Miller Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Do you find it difficult to let go of painful feelings and unhealthy reactions even when you understand their roots? Are you anxious or on guard as you try to protect yourself even when you feel you *should* be happy? Sometimes overwhelming experiences get stuck in our bodies, and continue to determine our emotions, behaviors, and relationship styles despite our best efforts. Through a nurturing and interactive approach, I help individuals, families and groups shift out of these stuck places to create deep and lasting change.
Do you find it difficult to let go of painful feelings and unhealthy reactions even when you understand their roots? Are you anxious or on guard as you try to protect yourself even when you feel you *should* be happy? Sometimes overwhelming experiences get stuck in our bodies, and continue to determine our emotions, behaviors, and relationship styles despite our best efforts. Through a nurturing and interactive approach, I help individuals, families and groups shift out of these stuck places to create deep and lasting change.
(216) 238-3530 View (216) 238-3530
Photo of Denise DeLuca, LPCC, LICDC
Denise DeLuca
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Not accepting new clients
Currently accepting Adults, Teens, and Pre-teens for Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy.
Currently accepting Adults, Teens, and Pre-teens for Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy.
(440) 291-5467 View (440) 291-5467
Photo of Jacqueline Zavatchen, MSW, LSW
Jacqueline Zavatchen
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Choosing me as your therapist means embarking on a journey of self-discovery and growth within a compassionate and understanding therapeutic alliance. I bring a wealth of experience to our sessions, grounded in a commitment to creating a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration of goals. My empathetic approach ensures that you feel heard and supported, fostering a collaborative environment where we work together to address challenges and facilitate positive change. I tailor my therapeutic techniques to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices and a holistic understanding of mental well-being.
Choosing me as your therapist means embarking on a journey of self-discovery and growth within a compassionate and understanding therapeutic alliance. I bring a wealth of experience to our sessions, grounded in a commitment to creating a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration of goals. My empathetic approach ensures that you feel heard and supported, fostering a collaborative environment where we work together to address challenges and facilitate positive change. I tailor my therapeutic techniques to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices and a holistic understanding of mental well-being.
(216) 677-1251 View (216) 677-1251
Photo of Stephanie Konesky, LPCC-S, Counselor
Stephanie Konesky
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I strive to establish supportive, collaborative, and compassion-focused relationships with my clients. I have found the integration of evidence based practice into a collaborative, tailored treatment to be effective in meeting the client’s needs and preferences. I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor and Supervisor with an expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Maudsley Family Based Therapy (FBT). I am passionate about the work that I do and in the process of change. My goal is to create an environment and relationship conducive to growth and progress.
I strive to establish supportive, collaborative, and compassion-focused relationships with my clients. I have found the integration of evidence based practice into a collaborative, tailored treatment to be effective in meeting the client’s needs and preferences. I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor and Supervisor with an expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Maudsley Family Based Therapy (FBT). I am passionate about the work that I do and in the process of change. My goal is to create an environment and relationship conducive to growth and progress.
(440) 298-7069 View (440) 298-7069
Photo of Margo Davis, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margo Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I guide my patients towards healing and self-reliance by addressing the heart of their emotional wounds. My practice is grounded in client-centered therapy, offering a non-judgmental space where everyone—regardless of your identity or unique challenges—is met with personalized support and understanding. Whether you're an athlete dealing with performance pressures, a young person navigating new stages of life, or you simply recognize that you could benefit from help, my goal is to empower you.
I guide my patients towards healing and self-reliance by addressing the heart of their emotional wounds. My practice is grounded in client-centered therapy, offering a non-judgmental space where everyone—regardless of your identity or unique challenges—is met with personalized support and understanding. Whether you're an athlete dealing with performance pressures, a young person navigating new stages of life, or you simply recognize that you could benefit from help, my goal is to empower you.
(216) 279-6389 View (216) 279-6389
Photo of Belinda Williams, MSSA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Navigating through this life can become difficult and because we are human, we are vulnerable and face challenges. As a licensed therapist, I have successfully aided clients in managing difficulties utilizing evidenced-based practices, implementing a holistic approach, while analyzing the big picture. My experience working in various levels of care and with different populations has afforded me a wealth of training in areas such as depression, anxiety, severe mental illness, trauma, substance abuse, social adaptability, dual diagnosis, gambling, and a variety of other life altering deficiencies.
Navigating through this life can become difficult and because we are human, we are vulnerable and face challenges. As a licensed therapist, I have successfully aided clients in managing difficulties utilizing evidenced-based practices, implementing a holistic approach, while analyzing the big picture. My experience working in various levels of care and with different populations has afforded me a wealth of training in areas such as depression, anxiety, severe mental illness, trauma, substance abuse, social adaptability, dual diagnosis, gambling, and a variety of other life altering deficiencies.
(216) 868-7673 View (216) 868-7673
Photo of Albert J McIntosh, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Albert J McIntosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Do you feel emotionally defeated? Are you a family member, or is your marriage in crisis? I offer older teens, adults, and couples effective strategies that give hope. I believe a Therapist must provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where a client feels free to engage in the treatment process that leads to emotional healing, restoration, and life transformation. I am committed to providing that environment so that you can enter into that process, and together we can discuss those challenges as we work on mutually agreed-upon solutions.
Do you feel emotionally defeated? Are you a family member, or is your marriage in crisis? I offer older teens, adults, and couples effective strategies that give hope. I believe a Therapist must provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where a client feels free to engage in the treatment process that leads to emotional healing, restoration, and life transformation. I am committed to providing that environment so that you can enter into that process, and together we can discuss those challenges as we work on mutually agreed-upon solutions.
(800) 642-4560 x800 View (800) 642-4560 x800
Photo of Melinda Phillips (Rodriguez), MA, LPCC, Counselor
Melinda Phillips (Rodriguez)
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Trauma or life circumstances can disrupt multiple facets of life (e.g. career, family, education, self-esteem, self-identity, or a sense of security) which may be overwhelming and increases the risk of isolation, depression, anxiety, grief as well as detachment from the community. The space of therapy is a place for you to reconnect with a sense of self, happiness, feel safe, hope, and be comfortable in a place where all are accepted. I am also a Grief Recovery Method Specialist (call for more information). I work with Medical Students at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Trauma or life circumstances can disrupt multiple facets of life (e.g. career, family, education, self-esteem, self-identity, or a sense of security) which may be overwhelming and increases the risk of isolation, depression, anxiety, grief as well as detachment from the community. The space of therapy is a place for you to reconnect with a sense of self, happiness, feel safe, hope, and be comfortable in a place where all are accepted. I am also a Grief Recovery Method Specialist (call for more information). I work with Medical Students at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(216) 238-2736 x877 View (216) 238-2736 x877
Photo of Amini B Dais, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amini B Dais
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
My ideal client is someone who wants to heal, grow and live their very best life. Often times we become stuck in our circumstances, and with healing comes freedom. My clients want to understand their experiences and gain strength to overcome them. They desire a life filled with joy, peace, and happiness. I work with clients to help them process, understand and release what's holding them down. I listen to and guide my clients through processing and creating goals to get them to the life they desire .
My ideal client is someone who wants to heal, grow and live their very best life. Often times we become stuck in our circumstances, and with healing comes freedom. My clients want to understand their experiences and gain strength to overcome them. They desire a life filled with joy, peace, and happiness. I work with clients to help them process, understand and release what's holding them down. I listen to and guide my clients through processing and creating goals to get them to the life they desire .
(216) 877-9152 View (216) 877-9152
Photo of Anne Elizabeth Simkin, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Elizabeth Simkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Annie Simkin is a licensed independent clinical social worker who has been practicing since 2008. She graduated from Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Concentration in Women's and Gender Studies, and the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a Master of Social Work, focusing on Interpersonal Practice. Annie values a holistic and individualized approach to therapy within a cultural context. She enjoys working collaboratively with clients in order to reach their own therapeutic goals.
Annie Simkin is a licensed independent clinical social worker who has been practicing since 2008. She graduated from Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Concentration in Women's and Gender Studies, and the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a Master of Social Work, focusing on Interpersonal Practice. Annie values a holistic and individualized approach to therapy within a cultural context. She enjoys working collaboratively with clients in order to reach their own therapeutic goals.
(216) 677-4876 View (216) 677-4876
Photo of Maria Shine Stewart, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Maria Shine Stewart
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
You are as unique as your fingerprint. I am a therapist that appreciates that and customizes treatment to suit your needs. I listen deeply, encourage, and advise within my scope of practice. You will benefit from: relaxation training, coping strategies for fear and depression, and insights on relationships. Above all, I promote your getting to know yourself. If your work or your faith or the arts is important to you, all strengths can be utilized in therapy. I can work with the rest of your health care team.Healing can be augmented by writing, reading, and communing in nature. If you are creatively blocked, I'm here.
You are as unique as your fingerprint. I am a therapist that appreciates that and customizes treatment to suit your needs. I listen deeply, encourage, and advise within my scope of practice. You will benefit from: relaxation training, coping strategies for fear and depression, and insights on relationships. Above all, I promote your getting to know yourself. If your work or your faith or the arts is important to you, all strengths can be utilized in therapy. I can work with the rest of your health care team.Healing can be augmented by writing, reading, and communing in nature. If you are creatively blocked, I'm here.
(216) 930-2958 View (216) 930-2958
Photo of Stephanie Lewis, LPCC-S, Counselor
Stephanie Lewis
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
In order to love others, you must love yourself. In order to see others, you must see yourself. In order to strive for greatness, you must believe in greatness. We often seek what we lack, forgetting that we have everything within, as long as we have the mental and emotional stability to see it. It is the anxiety, the sadness, the distress, feeling unseen and unheard that serves as our blockers. These blockers impact our access to abundance. You deserve to feel your best, be your best, so let's seek your best now. What are you willing to do for your abundance, stability, and to live your best life?
In order to love others, you must love yourself. In order to see others, you must see yourself. In order to strive for greatness, you must believe in greatness. We often seek what we lack, forgetting that we have everything within, as long as we have the mental and emotional stability to see it. It is the anxiety, the sadness, the distress, feeling unseen and unheard that serves as our blockers. These blockers impact our access to abundance. You deserve to feel your best, be your best, so let's seek your best now. What are you willing to do for your abundance, stability, and to live your best life?
View
Photo of Marirhetta Crosby, LIMFT, LPCC, NBCC, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marirhetta Crosby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LIMFT, LPCC, NBCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you someone who is very dedicated to supporting the ones around you, but have been struggling to do so way to long? Have you worked your hardest to solve your relationship issues but, it's too confusing and increases your anxiety through the roof? Are you struggling with an unfaithful partner and you're just sick and tired trying to figure out what to do? I can help you find your strength again, resolve your relationship issues, and deal with infidelity and unfaithfulness. I can help you learn skills to coping and better communicate to effectively deal with your life situation and relationships.
Are you someone who is very dedicated to supporting the ones around you, but have been struggling to do so way to long? Have you worked your hardest to solve your relationship issues but, it's too confusing and increases your anxiety through the roof? Are you struggling with an unfaithful partner and you're just sick and tired trying to figure out what to do? I can help you find your strength again, resolve your relationship issues, and deal with infidelity and unfaithfulness. I can help you learn skills to coping and better communicate to effectively deal with your life situation and relationships.
(216) 677-1450 View (216) 677-1450
Photo of Whitney McSparran, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Whitney McSparran
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Whitney is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with young adults, adults, women, and LGBTQIA+ folk coping with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, educational challenges, occupational problems, gender and sexuality-related issues, addiction and recovery, and the stress of everyday life. She loves supporting people new to therapy and helping those who have struggled in the past to find the right therapist.
Whitney is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with young adults, adults, women, and LGBTQIA+ folk coping with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, educational challenges, occupational problems, gender and sexuality-related issues, addiction and recovery, and the stress of everyday life. She loves supporting people new to therapy and helping those who have struggled in the past to find the right therapist.
(216) 284-7352 View (216) 284-7352
Photo of Pamela M. Nilsson, PhD, Psychologist
Pamela M. Nilsson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
The therapeutic relationship creates a unique space for patient and therapist to explore and uncover new possibilities for growth and change in areas that are of importance to the patient. I work collaboratively with patients to dislodge and free up deeply-embedded patterns of behavior and ways of relating to others that can keep us stuck and prevent us from moving forward, from achieving important goals, and from developing satisfying relationships that are nurturing and sustaining. Relationships are central to my work with patients, whether working individually, in couples therapy, or in a group.
The therapeutic relationship creates a unique space for patient and therapist to explore and uncover new possibilities for growth and change in areas that are of importance to the patient. I work collaboratively with patients to dislodge and free up deeply-embedded patterns of behavior and ways of relating to others that can keep us stuck and prevent us from moving forward, from achieving important goals, and from developing satisfying relationships that are nurturing and sustaining. Relationships are central to my work with patients, whether working individually, in couples therapy, or in a group.
(216) 303-6526 View (216) 303-6526
Photo of Jami Shanes, LPC, LICDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jami Shanes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Jami Shanes is a licensed professional counselor and licensed independent chemical dependency counselor. She received her bachelor's degree from John Carroll University in psychology, graduating magna cum laude, and her master's degree from John Carroll University in clinical mental health and counseling. She has experience working with adolescents and adults in inpatient and outpatient settings. She has a specialized interest in working with dual diagnosis, panic disorder, life transitions, mood disorders and anxiety disorders.
Jami Shanes is a licensed professional counselor and licensed independent chemical dependency counselor. She received her bachelor's degree from John Carroll University in psychology, graduating magna cum laude, and her master's degree from John Carroll University in clinical mental health and counseling. She has experience working with adolescents and adults in inpatient and outpatient settings. She has a specialized interest in working with dual diagnosis, panic disorder, life transitions, mood disorders and anxiety disorders.
(216) 284-6656 View (216) 284-6656
Photo of Ari Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Ari Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
My ideal client is an individual that is searching for a collaborative relationship that helps assist in being the best version of themselves through developing healthy habits that aid in overcoming their trials in life while gaining better understanding about themselves. I love to work with a variety of clients from all different backgrounds and have a passion for creating a warm environment where clients feel free to express themselves and are encouraged in their growth.
My ideal client is an individual that is searching for a collaborative relationship that helps assist in being the best version of themselves through developing healthy habits that aid in overcoming their trials in life while gaining better understanding about themselves. I love to work with a variety of clients from all different backgrounds and have a passion for creating a warm environment where clients feel free to express themselves and are encouraged in their growth.
(216) 999-4082 x113 View (216) 999-4082 x113
Photo of Christian James Mixon, MSSA, CIMHP, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian James Mixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, CIMHP, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
God has given us a purpose, a vision, and a mission! As someone who has experienced adversities, I have used my own experiences to empower, and strengthen others. I will admit I do not know everything. I say this because you know your story better than I. If you allow me access to know your story, we can grow together. I acknowledge that trust is an important part in any relationship to develop so do not trust me until I have earned it. My hope is that through partnership, engagement, patience, love, understanding, respect, kindness, and teamwork we can work towards healing and self-empowerment. "Please Email if you see Waitlist" !
God has given us a purpose, a vision, and a mission! As someone who has experienced adversities, I have used my own experiences to empower, and strengthen others. I will admit I do not know everything. I say this because you know your story better than I. If you allow me access to know your story, we can grow together. I acknowledge that trust is an important part in any relationship to develop so do not trust me until I have earned it. My hope is that through partnership, engagement, patience, love, understanding, respect, kindness, and teamwork we can work towards healing and self-empowerment. "Please Email if you see Waitlist" !
(216) 616-2215 View (216) 616-2215

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Beachwood, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Beachwood, OH who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
61% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% Medical Mutual
70% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Beachwood, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Beachwood?

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.