Therapists in 94582

Photo of Olesya Anatolevna Leskel, Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, MEd
Olesya Anatolevna Leskel
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LPCC, MEd
San Ramon, CA 94582
Do you feel alone with what you are going through ? Do you feel stuck in a situation and don't see way out? Please know, you don't have to suffer alone! The help is just a phone call way! As your therapist, I will help you feel safe, accepted, and cared for. My care and understanding is genuine, as for someone who struggled myself the strugglers of others are easy to understand. I am direct but compassionate, working hard to uncover the root of the problem rather than putting a bandage on it.
Do you feel alone with what you are going through ? Do you feel stuck in a situation and don't see way out? Please know, you don't have to suffer alone! The help is just a phone call way! As your therapist, I will help you feel safe, accepted, and cared for. My care and understanding is genuine, as for someone who struggled myself the strugglers of others are easy to understand. I am direct but compassionate, working hard to uncover the root of the problem rather than putting a bandage on it.
(415) 702-3807 View (415) 702-3807
Photo of Susan Bucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susan Bucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Ramon, CA 94582
Are you feeling lonely, sad, anxious, or depressed? Are you in need of help with a relationship, medical problem, or struggling with mood swings? Are you experiencing trauma, grief, and/or need support with personal growth or family issues? I can help. I am compassionate, experienced, and love what I do. I am frequently asked why I smile so much and the answer is simple...I get to know and work with the most wonderful people.
Are you feeling lonely, sad, anxious, or depressed? Are you in need of help with a relationship, medical problem, or struggling with mood swings? Are you experiencing trauma, grief, and/or need support with personal growth or family issues? I can help. I am compassionate, experienced, and love what I do. I am frequently asked why I smile so much and the answer is simple...I get to know and work with the most wonderful people.
(925) 694-0948 View (925) 694-0948
Photo of Christine R Melendres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christine R Melendres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94582
Online therapy for high-performing women leaders recovering from burnout, healing trauma, and finding balance in work and life. Are you juggling career success with personal well-being? Maybe you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or guilty for putting yourself first. Trauma or intergenerational patterns may leave you anxious, overextended, or stuck in unhealthy cycles. Many women carry cultural expectations, family responsibilities, and the weight of leadership. Burnout can feel inevitable—but it doesn’t have to be. Together, we’ll create a safe space to reclaim your energy and build a path toward balance.
Online therapy for high-performing women leaders recovering from burnout, healing trauma, and finding balance in work and life. Are you juggling career success with personal well-being? Maybe you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or guilty for putting yourself first. Trauma or intergenerational patterns may leave you anxious, overextended, or stuck in unhealthy cycles. Many women carry cultural expectations, family responsibilities, and the weight of leadership. Burnout can feel inevitable—but it doesn’t have to be. Together, we’ll create a safe space to reclaim your energy and build a path toward balance.
(510) 822-8521 View (510) 822-8521
Photo of Laurel Vandiver Ben, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Laurel Vandiver Ben
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94582
Are you feeling low on energy and lacking the motivation to do anything? Do you feel tense or “on edge” throughout your day? Maybe you are feeling hopeless and sad but aren't sure exactly why. Do you feel disconnected in your relationships? These problems don’t have to follow you forever. I support my clients in developing improved relationships in their lives, positive mindsets, increased motivation and more. In my practice, I focus on treating the whole person- not just their symptoms.
Are you feeling low on energy and lacking the motivation to do anything? Do you feel tense or “on edge” throughout your day? Maybe you are feeling hopeless and sad but aren't sure exactly why. Do you feel disconnected in your relationships? These problems don’t have to follow you forever. I support my clients in developing improved relationships in their lives, positive mindsets, increased motivation and more. In my practice, I focus on treating the whole person- not just their symptoms.
(925) 660-7863 View (925) 660-7863
Photo of Christopher Duerrmeier - Discovery Counseling Center, LMFT, PsyD, AMFT
Discovery Counseling Center
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94582
We are an local non-profit community mental health center with over 50 therapists, psychologists and pre-licensed associates dedicated to providing affordable, high quality, culturally appropriate and accessible counseling services and programs. We support clients with a variety of mental health concerns and work hard to match you with a mental health professional that will meet your needs. This is all done in a safe, caring, and confidential environment which provides a structured and supportive space for individuals to work through psychological issues, develop coping skills, gain insight, and achieve personal growth.
We are an local non-profit community mental health center with over 50 therapists, psychologists and pre-licensed associates dedicated to providing affordable, high quality, culturally appropriate and accessible counseling services and programs. We support clients with a variety of mental health concerns and work hard to match you with a mental health professional that will meet your needs. This is all done in a safe, caring, and confidential environment which provides a structured and supportive space for individuals to work through psychological issues, develop coping skills, gain insight, and achieve personal growth.
(925) 837-0505 View (925) 837-0505
Photo of Noemi Almaraz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Noemi Almaraz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I am a bilingual, Spanish-speaking, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. I am a second-generation Mexican American with over 8 years of clinical experience treating children, at-risk adolescents, adults, and families in various settings such as school-based (k-12), telehealth, and private practice. I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective and strive to meet clients where they are.
I am a bilingual, Spanish-speaking, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. I am a second-generation Mexican American with over 8 years of clinical experience treating children, at-risk adolescents, adults, and families in various settings such as school-based (k-12), telehealth, and private practice. I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective and strive to meet clients where they are.
(209) 583-8779 View (209) 583-8779
Photo of Rupa Puri Zimmermann, Psychologist, PhD
Rupa Puri Zimmermann
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
(925) 961-5340 View (925) 961-5340
Photo of Gregory Alter - Brain Wellness Center, Psychologist, PhD, BCIA, ABPP
Brain Wellness Center
Psychologist, PhD, BCIA, ABPP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE BEFORE CONTACTING ME. I offer non-medication-based options such as neurofeedback to address issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. I am a licensed psychologist with specializations in scientifically based assessments such as qEEG Brain Mapping and non-medication based solutions such as neurofeedback, tDCS, TMS, and Auditory Integration Training. I am part of a multidisciplinary group and we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website https://brain123.com to better understand what we do before calling.
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE BEFORE CONTACTING ME. I offer non-medication-based options such as neurofeedback to address issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. I am a licensed psychologist with specializations in scientifically based assessments such as qEEG Brain Mapping and non-medication based solutions such as neurofeedback, tDCS, TMS, and Auditory Integration Training. I am part of a multidisciplinary group and we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website https://brain123.com to better understand what we do before calling.
(925) 233-8318 View (925) 233-8318
Photo of Megan Arrighi-Fulton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Megan Arrighi-Fulton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
We all go through difficult times and can feel overwhelmed. I believe therapy is a powerful tool to help you through those difficult times and create lasting changes. The connection you feel with your therapist in one of the most important indicators to successful outcomes. With this in mind I strive to provide a safe, honest, and supportive environment allowing you to explore some of the most difficult times in your life. I build a collaborative, authentic relationship so that we can address your struggles and reach your therapy goals together.
We all go through difficult times and can feel overwhelmed. I believe therapy is a powerful tool to help you through those difficult times and create lasting changes. The connection you feel with your therapist in one of the most important indicators to successful outcomes. With this in mind I strive to provide a safe, honest, and supportive environment allowing you to explore some of the most difficult times in your life. I build a collaborative, authentic relationship so that we can address your struggles and reach your therapy goals together.
(925) 660-7619 View (925) 660-7619
Photo of Sumrah Jan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sumrah Jan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
Are you emotionally exhausted, stressed & unable to recognize yourself? Is it a struggle communicating with loved ones? Ordinary tasks feel burdensome and you're too tired to do anything. If any of these even partially describe your situation it's important to recognize that you aren't alone.... it doesn't have to stay this way. Often the most trying and somber moments in our lives drive us to a journey of self-discovery. As your therapist it will be my goal to provide support and empower you, as you move beyond that pain. Genuine health and happiness are within grasp.
Are you emotionally exhausted, stressed & unable to recognize yourself? Is it a struggle communicating with loved ones? Ordinary tasks feel burdensome and you're too tired to do anything. If any of these even partially describe your situation it's important to recognize that you aren't alone.... it doesn't have to stay this way. Often the most trying and somber moments in our lives drive us to a journey of self-discovery. As your therapist it will be my goal to provide support and empower you, as you move beyond that pain. Genuine health and happiness are within grasp.
(925) 273-7315 View (925) 273-7315
Photo of Roy Bettencourt, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Roy Bettencourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
The only thing scarier than change, is thinking things will never change. We love our partner, yet we fear love may not be enough. The relationship seems stuck. We constantly miscommunicate. We fight even when there’s nothing wrong. It doesn’t have to be like this and we don't have to find a new partner to have a new relationship. I honor the courage and strength it takes to ask for help. Together we will slow down the process, identify harmful relational patterns, and replace those dysfunctional patterns with new more satisfying interactions. My specialty is relational work couples/individuals.
The only thing scarier than change, is thinking things will never change. We love our partner, yet we fear love may not be enough. The relationship seems stuck. We constantly miscommunicate. We fight even when there’s nothing wrong. It doesn’t have to be like this and we don't have to find a new partner to have a new relationship. I honor the courage and strength it takes to ask for help. Together we will slow down the process, identify harmful relational patterns, and replace those dysfunctional patterns with new more satisfying interactions. My specialty is relational work couples/individuals.
(925) 478-4934 View (925) 478-4934
Photo of Jeffrey C. Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jeffrey C. Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Relationships are hard... We try to talk things out, but we never seem to get our point across. We try not to fight, but we always end up having the same fights. We are left feeling tired, frustrated, uncared for and alone. If what it takes is to give up a part of me to be in this relationship, maybe it's better to be alone... Rather than succumbing to fear and doubts, therapy offers an opportunity to recognize our value, our needs, and the role that we play in challenging relationships. Here's an opportunity to find a sense of belonging, mutual support, safety, and love.
Relationships are hard... We try to talk things out, but we never seem to get our point across. We try not to fight, but we always end up having the same fights. We are left feeling tired, frustrated, uncared for and alone. If what it takes is to give up a part of me to be in this relationship, maybe it's better to be alone... Rather than succumbing to fear and doubts, therapy offers an opportunity to recognize our value, our needs, and the role that we play in challenging relationships. Here's an opportunity to find a sense of belonging, mutual support, safety, and love.
(510) 892-0608 View (510) 892-0608
Photo of Laura Michelle Eklund, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laura Michelle Eklund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clients often feel stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety, panic, or intrusive thoughts that disrupt their daily lives. Many are trauma survivors—whether from childhood abuse, domestic violence, or workplace stress as first responders. They're seeking relief from anger, avoidance, hopelessness, and emotional overwhelm. Often referred after struggling with traditional talk therapy, they need specialized, trauma-informed care that provides practical tools alongside deep healing.
My clients often feel stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety, panic, or intrusive thoughts that disrupt their daily lives. Many are trauma survivors—whether from childhood abuse, domestic violence, or workplace stress as first responders. They're seeking relief from anger, avoidance, hopelessness, and emotional overwhelm. Often referred after struggling with traditional talk therapy, they need specialized, trauma-informed care that provides practical tools alongside deep healing.
(925) 266-3134 View (925) 266-3134
Photo of Amanda Rivera, Psychologist, PsyD
Amanda Rivera
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
There are many factors that contribute to the decision to pursue therapy. Finding someone who can assist you at this significant time in your life is an important choice. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I collaborate with you to understand areas to focus on within therapy and best approaches that are both helpful and supportive. I highly value treating others with respect, empathy, and acceptance. Working with me you will find my style is warm, open, and interactive.
There are many factors that contribute to the decision to pursue therapy. Finding someone who can assist you at this significant time in your life is an important choice. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I collaborate with you to understand areas to focus on within therapy and best approaches that are both helpful and supportive. I highly value treating others with respect, empathy, and acceptance. Working with me you will find my style is warm, open, and interactive.
(925) 526-6847 View (925) 526-6847
Photo of Jennie Teixeira, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Jennie Teixeira
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Serves Area
There are times in our life when difficulties lead to thoughts and feelings within us that we are uncomfortable with. Ignoring those feelings doesn’t make them go away and often leave us frustrated and feeling stuck. Seeking counseling is a helpful way to find relief and healing when struggling with mental and emotional suffering, relationship conflicts, daily stress, and unhealthy behavior patterns. My profession has included supporting clients in schools, homes, clinics, and correctional facilities. My experience also includes providing therapy to law enforcement professionals, teachers, first responders, and medical personnel.
There are times in our life when difficulties lead to thoughts and feelings within us that we are uncomfortable with. Ignoring those feelings doesn’t make them go away and often leave us frustrated and feeling stuck. Seeking counseling is a helpful way to find relief and healing when struggling with mental and emotional suffering, relationship conflicts, daily stress, and unhealthy behavior patterns. My profession has included supporting clients in schools, homes, clinics, and correctional facilities. My experience also includes providing therapy to law enforcement professionals, teachers, first responders, and medical personnel.
(510) 879-5360 View (510) 879-5360
Photo of Abby Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Abby Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy supporting clients in exploring the "messy middle" that can emerge during life transitions. For new parents, this might look like discussing the balance between demanding careers, raising a family, and rediscovering your identity. I also provide tailored support to parents navigating emotional and behavioral challenges with their children, as well as the reactions these may bring up in you. For individuals, this might mean taking a step back and reexamining old patterns that are no longer serving you. For couples, this might include identifying and interrupting unhelpful cycles.
I enjoy supporting clients in exploring the "messy middle" that can emerge during life transitions. For new parents, this might look like discussing the balance between demanding careers, raising a family, and rediscovering your identity. I also provide tailored support to parents navigating emotional and behavioral challenges with their children, as well as the reactions these may bring up in you. For individuals, this might mean taking a step back and reexamining old patterns that are no longer serving you. For couples, this might include identifying and interrupting unhelpful cycles.
(925) 397-3445 View (925) 397-3445
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Bean - A Better Life Coaching , PsyD, CLC
A Better Life Coaching
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Have you been feeling stuck — maybe you’ve tried to move forward only to end up back in the same place again? It’s not you — your brain and nervous system are wired to pull you back toward what feels familiar and safe. That’s why change can feel so hard, even when you want it. I help you work with your brain, not against it, so you can finally get unstuck, break old patterns, get clear on what you want, and move forward into a life that feels aligned with who you are and what you want.
Have you been feeling stuck — maybe you’ve tried to move forward only to end up back in the same place again? It’s not you — your brain and nervous system are wired to pull you back toward what feels familiar and safe. That’s why change can feel so hard, even when you want it. I help you work with your brain, not against it, so you can finally get unstuck, break old patterns, get clear on what you want, and move forward into a life that feels aligned with who you are and what you want.
(916) 891-6865 View (916) 891-6865
Scott Fleishman
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I approach each person as a unique individual, shaped by their own life story, experiences, and struggles. I believe it is essential to truly understand someone—not just by their symptoms or behaviors, but by the deeper layers of what they’ve been through. Many of the challenges people face today are rooted in past pain, unmet needs, or overwhelming stressors. Together, we explore the triggers that may be causing emotional distress or reactive patterns, with compassion and curiosity,
I approach each person as a unique individual, shaped by their own life story, experiences, and struggles. I believe it is essential to truly understand someone—not just by their symptoms or behaviors, but by the deeper layers of what they’ve been through. Many of the challenges people face today are rooted in past pain, unmet needs, or overwhelming stressors. Together, we explore the triggers that may be causing emotional distress or reactive patterns, with compassion and curiosity,
(818) 293-8134 View (818) 293-8134
Photo of Phillip H Lolonis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Phillip H Lolonis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Serves Area
I’m here to guide individuals, couples, and families through anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship pain, perfectionism, addiction, or grief. Using a 360° blend of TEAM-CBT, EMDR/Flash, IFS parts work, and mindfulness, we address mind and body across home, school, work, and sport. Clients who thrive come ready to invest time and curiosity in change; together we turn suffering into steadier living.
I’m here to guide individuals, couples, and families through anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship pain, perfectionism, addiction, or grief. Using a 360° blend of TEAM-CBT, EMDR/Flash, IFS parts work, and mindfulness, we address mind and body across home, school, work, and sport. Clients who thrive come ready to invest time and curiosity in change; together we turn suffering into steadier living.
(925) 420-8093 View (925) 420-8093
Photo of Dr. Anastasia Park, Psychologist, Ph,D
Dr. Anastasia Park
Psychologist, Ph,D
Serves Area
We have all experienced challenging times in our lives that have prevented us from living our lives to the fullest. While it can be scary to confide in strangers about your emotional struggle, the connection you establish with your therapist will undoubtedly be a source of relief and comfort that helps you move forward in your life, especially when your family is in crisis. The process of establishing emotional connection with others stems from one of the most basic human needs, and is the building block of healthy relationships. In this way, therapeutic relationship can be utilized to help you flourish in your own personal life.
We have all experienced challenging times in our lives that have prevented us from living our lives to the fullest. While it can be scary to confide in strangers about your emotional struggle, the connection you establish with your therapist will undoubtedly be a source of relief and comfort that helps you move forward in your life, especially when your family is in crisis. The process of establishing emotional connection with others stems from one of the most basic human needs, and is the building block of healthy relationships. In this way, therapeutic relationship can be utilized to help you flourish in your own personal life.
(925) 718-9034 View (925) 718-9034

See more therapy options for 94582

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 94582

100+

Average cost per session

$190

Therapists in 94582 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
64% Trauma and PTSD
60% Family Conflict
60% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
77% Optum
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 94582 see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 94582?

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.