Photo of Dr. Dawn Marie Friend, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Dawn Marie Friend
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I have been helping clients of all ages, races, and backgrounds live more fulfilling, rewarding, hopeful lives for as long as I can remember. It was natural for me to become a psychologist and make my mark on the world by doing exactly what I loved to do. Although my clients continually tell me how much they are helped by therapy, I can honestly say that I am the one who is truly changed by helping others. No matter what your difficulties are, I can assure you that you will be changed in some way by entering therapy. There is no difficulty too great or too small to work on in therapy. The only constant in life is change.
I have been helping clients of all ages, races, and backgrounds live more fulfilling, rewarding, hopeful lives for as long as I can remember. It was natural for me to become a psychologist and make my mark on the world by doing exactly what I loved to do. Although my clients continually tell me how much they are helped by therapy, I can honestly say that I am the one who is truly changed by helping others. No matter what your difficulties are, I can assure you that you will be changed in some way by entering therapy. There is no difficulty too great or too small to work on in therapy. The only constant in life is change.
(412) 924-8276 View (412) 924-8276
Photo of Samantha J Lacy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha J Lacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(412) 790-2059 View (412) 790-2059
Photo of Tasha Myers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tasha Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129
I enjoy meeting with individuals, couples and families. I encourage coming into therapy for any variety of reasons including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, stress, loss etc. I can help address concerns related to symptoms or just simply talk to you about your life in a way a friend or family member cannot.
I enjoy meeting with individuals, couples and families. I encourage coming into therapy for any variety of reasons including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, stress, loss etc. I can help address concerns related to symptoms or just simply talk to you about your life in a way a friend or family member cannot.
(878) 216-7479 View (878) 216-7479
Photo of Rosemary Cunningham, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosemary Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129  (Online Only)
My focus as a therapist is to assist my clients in recognizing their strengths and using them to become the best person they can be. I specialize in working with the LGBT community on a variety of issues and am a sex-positive therapist. I use a trauma-informed approach with all of my clients and have been helping those who have been through various traumas in their lives throughout my years of practice.
My focus as a therapist is to assist my clients in recognizing their strengths and using them to become the best person they can be. I specialize in working with the LGBT community on a variety of issues and am a sex-positive therapist. I use a trauma-informed approach with all of my clients and have been helping those who have been through various traumas in their lives throughout my years of practice.
(878) 218-9610 View (878) 218-9610
Photo of Elizabeth Kozlowski, LPC, MSCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Kozlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSCP
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals from age 6 through adulthood. I work with clients struggling with a number of issues including mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing to help clients through their difficulties.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals from age 6 through adulthood. I work with clients struggling with a number of issues including mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing to help clients through their difficulties.
(878) 205-0434 View (878) 205-0434
Photo of Ronald Thomas Curran, PhD
Ronald Thomas Curran
PhD
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129
Pain, uncertainty, feelings of being lost and a failure emerge as we seek to find our individual path in life. These feelings often indicate it is time to be found, not that you are "mentally ill." They can indicate the need to connect with your inner Self rather than to substitute unfulfilling forms of social adjustment. My approach focuses on you as a unique individual. It recognizes that you have a Self in the sense that there is a unique inner guidance available to you. I will work as a guide in your journey toward conflict resolution and wholeness.
Pain, uncertainty, feelings of being lost and a failure emerge as we seek to find our individual path in life. These feelings often indicate it is time to be found, not that you are "mentally ill." They can indicate the need to connect with your inner Self rather than to substitute unfulfilling forms of social adjustment. My approach focuses on you as a unique individual. It recognizes that you have a Self in the sense that there is a unique inner guidance available to you. I will work as a guide in your journey toward conflict resolution and wholeness.
(412) 212-3801 View (412) 212-3801
Photo of Susan M Stay - Stay Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stay Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
Stay Counseling Center s a group psychotherapy practice located in the South Hills. If you are seeking services to manage day to day stress,relationship issues, trauma, depression, panic, anxiety or other issues that create distress and compromise our day to day living. We invite you to share with us the possibly of personal and relational growth.
Stay Counseling Center s a group psychotherapy practice located in the South Hills. If you are seeking services to manage day to day stress,relationship issues, trauma, depression, panic, anxiety or other issues that create distress and compromise our day to day living. We invite you to share with us the possibly of personal and relational growth.
(412) 455-6930 View (412) 455-6930
Photo of Luke A Watson, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luke A Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129
Is your child or teen or young adult struggling with anger, anxiety, trauma or depression? Are you losing hope and unsure where to turn to help them? I have worked with children, teens, and adults for the past 20 years working to empower young people with coping skills and practical strategies to manage strong emotions. I use a variety of evidence based strategies including mindfulness and cognitve-behavioral therapy to help young people find a sense of inner calm. Happiness and peace are possible for your child and for you. I see school aged children ages 8 and up as well as adults for individual counseling.
Is your child or teen or young adult struggling with anger, anxiety, trauma or depression? Are you losing hope and unsure where to turn to help them? I have worked with children, teens, and adults for the past 20 years working to empower young people with coping skills and practical strategies to manage strong emotions. I use a variety of evidence based strategies including mindfulness and cognitve-behavioral therapy to help young people find a sense of inner calm. Happiness and peace are possible for your child and for you. I see school aged children ages 8 and up as well as adults for individual counseling.
(412) 312-4225 View (412) 312-4225
Photo of Donald J Zandier Jr. - Zandier Counseling, MA, Psychologist
Zandier Counseling
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
More Than Just Talk....... If you haven't been in psychotherapy before, you may not realize that the traditional approach to treatment is to educate the client about their conditions and teach them how to change their own feelings and behaviors. Although this approach can be very helpful, it is usually a long process that depends a great deal on the individual's courageous persistence. Moreover, a change in behavior and belief does not necessarily resolve the history of negative experiences fueling such things as depression and anxiety. These are some of the reasons I offer "More Than Just Talk".
More Than Just Talk....... If you haven't been in psychotherapy before, you may not realize that the traditional approach to treatment is to educate the client about their conditions and teach them how to change their own feelings and behaviors. Although this approach can be very helpful, it is usually a long process that depends a great deal on the individual's courageous persistence. Moreover, a change in behavior and belief does not necessarily resolve the history of negative experiences fueling such things as depression and anxiety. These are some of the reasons I offer "More Than Just Talk".
(412) 253-6192 View (412) 253-6192
Photo of Amy Schafer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Schafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
(412) 419-0927 View (412) 419-0927
Photo of Leann E. Romitti, PhD, LPC, NCC, CMHNCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leann E. Romitti
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CMHNCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“I don’t know who I am anymore”. “I used to be so happy”. “Why is being healthy so hard right now”. “When did it become so hard to get out of bed”. Some days you find yourself asking these questions. You don’t know when it happened, but you barely recognize the person in the mirror. You don’t feel like yourself. You feel lost, stuck and overwhelmed by the little things. You feel guilty because you struggle to be present at your job, with your partner, or your children and family. You want to stop "just getting through another day". You are ready to take your life back. You are ready to thrive.
“I don’t know who I am anymore”. “I used to be so happy”. “Why is being healthy so hard right now”. “When did it become so hard to get out of bed”. Some days you find yourself asking these questions. You don’t know when it happened, but you barely recognize the person in the mirror. You don’t feel like yourself. You feel lost, stuck and overwhelmed by the little things. You feel guilty because you struggle to be present at your job, with your partner, or your children and family. You want to stop "just getting through another day". You are ready to take your life back. You are ready to thrive.
(412) 324-3175 View (412) 324-3175
Photo of Madison Dobas, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madison Dobas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
(412) 912-4796 View (412) 912-4796
Photo of Alyssa Sullinger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Sullinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129  (Online Only)
Are you a millennial or Gen Z Christian woman struggling with anxiety in your relationships? You're not alone. My name is Alyssa, and I specialize in helping young women like you navigate the complexities of anxiety, attachment, and codependency through a unique blend of psychological principles and Christian faith. I also specialize in helping those suffering from religious trauma or who are looking to reconnect with their faith.
Are you a millennial or Gen Z Christian woman struggling with anxiety in your relationships? You're not alone. My name is Alyssa, and I specialize in helping young women like you navigate the complexities of anxiety, attachment, and codependency through a unique blend of psychological principles and Christian faith. I also specialize in helping those suffering from religious trauma or who are looking to reconnect with their faith.
(412) 900-9326 View (412) 900-9326
Photo of Tristyn Tabb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tristyn Tabb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
Hello! You have taken the first step in moving towards a life you can be proud of; congratulations. Life has a way of placing obstacles in our path and sometimes these challenges can seem insurmountable. Know that you don’t have to face these challenges alone and that with some help the things that seem impossible can become possible. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I earned my master’s in professional counseling from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. My professional career consists of working in community mental health and outpatient treatment settings.
Hello! You have taken the first step in moving towards a life you can be proud of; congratulations. Life has a way of placing obstacles in our path and sometimes these challenges can seem insurmountable. Know that you don’t have to face these challenges alone and that with some help the things that seem impossible can become possible. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I earned my master’s in professional counseling from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. My professional career consists of working in community mental health and outpatient treatment settings.
(412) 547-5448 View (412) 547-5448
Photo of James A Whisner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James A Whisner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
Many of us are overwhelmed with our responsibilities: work, taking care of loved ones, family, keeping our bills paid, starting out in life. It goes on. Current work culture, social media, and influencers bombard us with messages to keep "hustling". We feel guilty and selfish if we take time and put ourselves first. If you are this essential to keeping the gears moving, shouldn't you be maintained? Keep pushing and you will eventually break down. When you break down, guess what? You won't be any good to those you do all this for, you may even become a burden. Maybe self-care isn't something we should feel guilty of then.
Many of us are overwhelmed with our responsibilities: work, taking care of loved ones, family, keeping our bills paid, starting out in life. It goes on. Current work culture, social media, and influencers bombard us with messages to keep "hustling". We feel guilty and selfish if we take time and put ourselves first. If you are this essential to keeping the gears moving, shouldn't you be maintained? Keep pushing and you will eventually break down. When you break down, guess what? You won't be any good to those you do all this for, you may even become a burden. Maybe self-care isn't something we should feel guilty of then.
(412) 816-9009 View (412) 816-9009
Photo of Sarah Heitzenrater, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Heitzenrater
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Park, PA 15129
As a National Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor I aim to create a safe, inclusive and affirming space for every one of my clients. I prioritize the therapeutic relationships that I build with each client and acknowledge the importance of having a trusting and supportive environment. I have a special interest in diverse LGBTQ+ issues, as well as, experience working with anxiety, various mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
As a National Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor I aim to create a safe, inclusive and affirming space for every one of my clients. I prioritize the therapeutic relationships that I build with each client and acknowledge the importance of having a trusting and supportive environment. I have a special interest in diverse LGBTQ+ issues, as well as, experience working with anxiety, various mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
(412) 275-5556 View (412) 275-5556

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christy Nyakana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Nyakana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
Hello! Over the years, I have been very fortunate to work with amazingly diverse and ever-resilient clients. I have provided therapy in psychiatric inpatient settings, schools, community mental health clinics, Dr.’s offices, private practice, and military bases. Currently, I provide teletherapy services for teens and adults. I specialize in adjustment issues, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, family-of-origin issues, co-dependency, disordered eating, pre/post-surgical bariatric counseling, and military life. I take diversity and racism seriously. I am a supporter of LGBTQ+, BLM, and Women's Rights.
Hello! Over the years, I have been very fortunate to work with amazingly diverse and ever-resilient clients. I have provided therapy in psychiatric inpatient settings, schools, community mental health clinics, Dr.’s offices, private practice, and military bases. Currently, I provide teletherapy services for teens and adults. I specialize in adjustment issues, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, family-of-origin issues, co-dependency, disordered eating, pre/post-surgical bariatric counseling, and military life. I take diversity and racism seriously. I am a supporter of LGBTQ+, BLM, and Women's Rights.
(814) 383-3037 View (814) 383-3037
Photo of Tanja Soto - Tanja Soto | Makin Wellness Online Therapy, MA, LPC, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanja Soto | Makin Wellness Online Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
You may be someone who's feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, navigating the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder, or seeking support for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Your needs are unique, and you want a therapist who truly understands and supports you on your journey to emotional well-being. Your goal is to find practical solutions and guidance to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. Together, we'll work to achieve the positive changes you desire.
You may be someone who's feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, navigating the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder, or seeking support for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Your needs are unique, and you want a therapist who truly understands and supports you on your journey to emotional well-being. Your goal is to find practical solutions and guidance to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. Together, we'll work to achieve the positive changes you desire.
(412) 923-0211 View (412) 923-0211
Photo of Heather Scheele, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Scheele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakmont, PA 15139
I believe everyone has the potential to thrive regardless of age, gender, race, ability, diagnosis, or experience, but often life’s challenges deplete the very internal resources we need to flourish. Sometimes we need the support of a trained professional to help navigate the difficult emotions and questions we are left with, especially when they interfere with our daily life or just won't go away. I provide a compassionate and professional environment where clients can safely explore what is holding them back so they heal and move forward.
I believe everyone has the potential to thrive regardless of age, gender, race, ability, diagnosis, or experience, but often life’s challenges deplete the very internal resources we need to flourish. Sometimes we need the support of a trained professional to help navigate the difficult emotions and questions we are left with, especially when they interfere with our daily life or just won't go away. I provide a compassionate and professional environment where clients can safely explore what is holding them back so they heal and move forward.
(412) 547-8547 View (412) 547-8547
Photo of Mary Beth George, MEd, LPC, CGT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Beth George
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CGT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with couples, in particular helping them heal from affairs/betrayals, loneliness, over-the-top conflicts and loss of friendship/romance. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist and Trainer and Consultant for The Gottman Institute. This means I have highly specialized training and experience in helping couples using a researched based, effective modality. A state-of-the-art Love Lab assessment process pinpoints couples issues and helps create a more effective treatment plan. This process mimics Gottman's original research and raises the bar in couples therapy.
My specialty is working with couples, in particular helping them heal from affairs/betrayals, loneliness, over-the-top conflicts and loss of friendship/romance. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist and Trainer and Consultant for The Gottman Institute. This means I have highly specialized training and experience in helping couples using a researched based, effective modality. A state-of-the-art Love Lab assessment process pinpoints couples issues and helps create a more effective treatment plan. This process mimics Gottman's original research and raises the bar in couples therapy.
(272) 205-5236 View (272) 205-5236

See more therapy options for 15129

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 15129

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in 15129 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
94% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
81% Grief
81% Coping Skills
81% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hea
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 15129 see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
27% Male
6% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 15129?

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.