Therapists in Strongsville, OH

Photo of Jeanette Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Strongsville, OH
Jeanette Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Jeannie Miller has over 20 years experience in multiple settings including residential, community, Outpatient counseling and in the private practice settings. She has advanced training in Trauma Informed Care, Nurturing Parenting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Jeannie achieved a BA in Psychology and a Master's in Social work. She is independently licensed through the Marriage and Family and Social Worker Board.
Jeannie Miller has over 20 years experience in multiple settings including residential, community, Outpatient counseling and in the private practice settings. She has advanced training in Trauma Informed Care, Nurturing Parenting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Jeannie achieved a BA in Psychology and a Master's in Social work. She is independently licensed through the Marriage and Family and Social Worker Board.
(440) 762-6309 View (440) 762-6309
Photo of Shirley Wells, Marriage & Family Therapist in Strongsville, OH
Shirley Wells
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that hold you back from reaching your full potential? Life is a journey filled with various seasons, including growth, change, struggles, disappointments, and anticipation. I firmly believe that every person is like a seed, containing all the potential to become their true self. What truly determines this growth is the environment and circumstances that surround us.
Do you find yourself stuck in patterns that hold you back from reaching your full potential? Life is a journey filled with various seasons, including growth, change, struggles, disappointments, and anticipation. I firmly believe that every person is like a seed, containing all the potential to become their true self. What truly determines this growth is the environment and circumstances that surround us.
(440) 771-1798 View (440) 771-1798
Photo of Veda Wise, Licensed Social Worker in Strongsville, OH
Veda Wise
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136  (Online Only)
Do you need a breakthrough? Do you need direction and strategies to transform your life?  There is hope! By merging years of training and experience with the foundational principles of God's Word, I provide Christian counseling that incorporates psychological research that is compatible with scripture.
Do you need a breakthrough? Do you need direction and strategies to transform your life?  There is hope! By merging years of training and experience with the foundational principles of God's Word, I provide Christian counseling that incorporates psychological research that is compatible with scripture.
(440) 306-3308 View (440) 306-3308
Photo of Zach Dispirito, Licensed Professional Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Zach Dispirito
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
Hello, it’s nice to meet you! I hope you’re doing well and congratulations on successfully working toward finding support. I typically work with those of us that experience/have experienced self-esteem issues, anxiety, difficulty with change, relationship concerns, depression, challenges with attention, and/or traumatic events in life. As an LGBTQ+ ally, it is paramount to me to empower you to thrive in your best way, regardless of what may bring you into counseling. My purpose is to guide you in achieving your goals & support you in feeling inspired, hopeful, and capable in the long-term.
Hello, it’s nice to meet you! I hope you’re doing well and congratulations on successfully working toward finding support. I typically work with those of us that experience/have experienced self-esteem issues, anxiety, difficulty with change, relationship concerns, depression, challenges with attention, and/or traumatic events in life. As an LGBTQ+ ally, it is paramount to me to empower you to thrive in your best way, regardless of what may bring you into counseling. My purpose is to guide you in achieving your goals & support you in feeling inspired, hopeful, and capable in the long-term.
(440) 644-3985 View (440) 644-3985
Photo of Marina Bernard, Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Marina Bernard
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Marina Bernard is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor of Science from John Carroll University and a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Kent State University. Marina strives to help her clients advocate for themselves and break free from barriers that interfere with living their most authentic and fulfilled selves. Marina hopes to work with her clients to pursue their self-direction and prioritize their own values and needs. Together, the client and Marina will work towards healing from the past and embracing the future of possibility.
Marina Bernard is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor of Science from John Carroll University and a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Kent State University. Marina strives to help her clients advocate for themselves and break free from barriers that interfere with living their most authentic and fulfilled selves. Marina hopes to work with her clients to pursue their self-direction and prioritize their own values and needs. Together, the client and Marina will work towards healing from the past and embracing the future of possibility.
(440) 683-6711 View (440) 683-6711
Photo of Bill Bowler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Bill Bowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
My mission is to support and guide people on their own journey towards recovery. I'm dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their lives to lift them out of the sense of hopelessness that can result from years of chaos, crises, and trauma. I firmly believe in the power of hope and am confident that we can nurture it together to create a brighter future. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 1987.
My mission is to support and guide people on their own journey towards recovery. I'm dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their lives to lift them out of the sense of hopelessness that can result from years of chaos, crises, and trauma. I firmly believe in the power of hope and am confident that we can nurture it together to create a brighter future. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 1987.
(440) 683-6292 View (440) 683-6292
Photo of Nancy Lowrie & Associates LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Strongsville, OH
Nancy Lowrie & Associates LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, DOT-SAP, Mediatr
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
We specialize in treating and working with all types of mental and behavioral health concerns. Our team of experienced Ohio-Licensed practitioners all have many years of working experience and are also noted for their specialties. Our clients come with all types of mental or behavioral health challenges, substance abuse concerns, and relationship or family issues - which deserve to be addressed properly, promptly, and with complete confidentiality. Our clients range from children and adolescents, to parents and adults, to seniors - all ages are most welcome. Feel free to contact us via phone or email.
We specialize in treating and working with all types of mental and behavioral health concerns. Our team of experienced Ohio-Licensed practitioners all have many years of working experience and are also noted for their specialties. Our clients come with all types of mental or behavioral health challenges, substance abuse concerns, and relationship or family issues - which deserve to be addressed properly, promptly, and with complete confidentiality. Our clients range from children and adolescents, to parents and adults, to seniors - all ages are most welcome. Feel free to contact us via phone or email.
(440) 530-9481 View (440) 530-9481
Photo of Dr. Brittany Kelly, Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Dr. Brittany Kelly
Counselor, PhD, LCDCIII, LPCC-S, CFRC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Hello, I'm a highly experienced therapist with nearly two decades of mental health counseling experience. During the last decade, I worked at Psychological and Behavioral Consultants, a private practice in North Olmsted, OH. In this role, I dedicated my efforts to helping clients facing various challenges, including anxiety, depression, marital issues, substance abuse disorders, trauma, and spiritual concerns.I hold an independent license with supervisory status in Clinical Counseling and Chemical dependency in the state of Ohio, and I am certified in foster care assessment and sex offender treatment.
Hello, I'm a highly experienced therapist with nearly two decades of mental health counseling experience. During the last decade, I worked at Psychological and Behavioral Consultants, a private practice in North Olmsted, OH. In this role, I dedicated my efforts to helping clients facing various challenges, including anxiety, depression, marital issues, substance abuse disorders, trauma, and spiritual concerns.I hold an independent license with supervisory status in Clinical Counseling and Chemical dependency in the state of Ohio, and I am certified in foster care assessment and sex offender treatment.
(440) 530-9265 View (440) 530-9265
Photo of Olivia Laws, Licensed Social Worker in Strongsville, OH
Olivia Laws
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Starting therapy can sometimes be nerve-racking. That’s why my goal is to provide a comfortable and safe space. I would describe myself as being someone who is nonjudgmental, compassionate, empathetic, and quirky. My therapeutic approach involves bringing a sense of hope, kindness, and support to make everyday life more manageable. Healing and talking about heavy things can be difficult, but together, it can be resourcefully navigated. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach and value the role each person plays in their own healing journey. I find joy in meeting people from all ages and backgrounds of life.
Starting therapy can sometimes be nerve-racking. That’s why my goal is to provide a comfortable and safe space. I would describe myself as being someone who is nonjudgmental, compassionate, empathetic, and quirky. My therapeutic approach involves bringing a sense of hope, kindness, and support to make everyday life more manageable. Healing and talking about heavy things can be difficult, but together, it can be resourcefully navigated. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach and value the role each person plays in their own healing journey. I find joy in meeting people from all ages and backgrounds of life.
(440) 294-6304 View (440) 294-6304
Photo of Jessica Brady Snow, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Jessica Brady Snow
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Jessica Brady, LPCC Jessica Brady is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio with 11 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Baldwin Wallace University and a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from John Carroll University. Jessica believes in a holistic approach to therapy, taking into account the whole person. She feels it is important to put the client first and establish an authentic rapport to help them feel safe and comfortable. Jessica utilizes CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy techniques in her approach to therapy.
Jessica Brady, LPCC Jessica Brady is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio with 11 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Baldwin Wallace University and a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from John Carroll University. Jessica believes in a holistic approach to therapy, taking into account the whole person. She feels it is important to put the client first and establish an authentic rapport to help them feel safe and comfortable. Jessica utilizes CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy techniques in her approach to therapy.
(440) 538-1557 View (440) 538-1557
Photo of Leah Aki Wood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Leah Aki Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
Waitlist for new clients
Whatever led you to this moment, I am here to support you! I hope to create a space for you to feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore and express yourself. I aim to work collaboratively with you, because you are the expert of your life. What can we accomplish together? My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and identity issues such as bicultural identity development. It is my priority to develop an understanding of where you're coming from and where you want to go. It is important that you know you are deserving of compassion and care.
Whatever led you to this moment, I am here to support you! I hope to create a space for you to feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore and express yourself. I aim to work collaboratively with you, because you are the expert of your life. What can we accomplish together? My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and identity issues such as bicultural identity development. It is my priority to develop an understanding of where you're coming from and where you want to go. It is important that you know you are deserving of compassion and care.
(440) 644-3889 View (440) 644-3889
Photo of Claudia Taylor, Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Claudia Taylor
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
Currently I have a waitlist. I'm glad you are taking the first step towards change! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor. My areas of specialization include: trauma related disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, women's issues, and relationship distress. I am a sex-positive therapist and strive to create a safe space for all! I typically draw from CBT and DBT modalities for the majority of treatment but will tailor each experience to fit your needs. I am passionate about helping those from diverse populations and will work with you to establish goals that are unique to your experience.
Currently I have a waitlist. I'm glad you are taking the first step towards change! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor. My areas of specialization include: trauma related disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, women's issues, and relationship distress. I am a sex-positive therapist and strive to create a safe space for all! I typically draw from CBT and DBT modalities for the majority of treatment but will tailor each experience to fit your needs. I am passionate about helping those from diverse populations and will work with you to establish goals that are unique to your experience.
(440) 482-8614 View (440) 482-8614
Photo of Samantha Grey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Strongsville, OH
Samantha Grey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Hi, my name is Samantha, but please call me Sam. I am an enthusiastic and passionate Social Worker with a background in child and adolescent counseling. I received my Bachelor’s in Social Work from Miami University, and have worked with children and adolescents in various settings for the past several years. I not only work with individuals, but have also worked as a group counselor, a child and family mediator, and an educator when needed.
Hi, my name is Samantha, but please call me Sam. I am an enthusiastic and passionate Social Worker with a background in child and adolescent counseling. I received my Bachelor’s in Social Work from Miami University, and have worked with children and adolescents in various settings for the past several years. I not only work with individuals, but have also worked as a group counselor, a child and family mediator, and an educator when needed.
(440) 644-4192 View (440) 644-4192
Photo of Fay L Hahn, Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Fay L Hahn
Counselor, MA, M Ed, LPCC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Not accepting new clients
Let's be real - life is hard and sticky and absolutely devastating at times. The world shakes and all the sudden our lives don't look like they used to or the way we want them to. Maybe we need someone to help us untangle our thoughts, figure out what we are feeling, maybe relearn our identity. That might be where someone like me steps in.
Let's be real - life is hard and sticky and absolutely devastating at times. The world shakes and all the sudden our lives don't look like they used to or the way we want them to. Maybe we need someone to help us untangle our thoughts, figure out what we are feeling, maybe relearn our identity. That might be where someone like me steps in.
(440) 291-2021 View (440) 291-2021
Karen M Tomoff
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44149  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of clinical experience, I specialize in couples therapy as well as individual treatment for adults. My eclectic style includes Gestalt, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), EFT (Tapping), Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I specialize in working with couples, families, parenting skills, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain, PTSD, Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorders.
With over 25 years of clinical experience, I specialize in couples therapy as well as individual treatment for adults. My eclectic style includes Gestalt, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), EFT (Tapping), Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I specialize in working with couples, families, parenting skills, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain, PTSD, Trichotillomania and Skin Picking Disorders.
(440) 544-6988 View (440) 544-6988
Photo of Stephanie Flynn, Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Stephanie Flynn
Counselor, LPCC, EMDR, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Stephanie Flynn LPCC, EMDR, C-DBT Stephanie Flynn is an independently licensed therapist in the state of Ohio. Stephanie has experience working in a variety of settings including community mental health, private practice, Intensive Out-Patient Programs, and a comprehensive Day Treatment program. Stephanie has achieved her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a master's degree in the Art of Education. She also has advanced training in EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
Stephanie Flynn LPCC, EMDR, C-DBT Stephanie Flynn is an independently licensed therapist in the state of Ohio. Stephanie has experience working in a variety of settings including community mental health, private practice, Intensive Out-Patient Programs, and a comprehensive Day Treatment program. Stephanie has achieved her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a master's degree in the Art of Education. She also has advanced training in EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
(440) 740-3303 View (440) 740-3303
Photo of Daryn Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Strongsville, OH
Daryn Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Daryn V. Hunt is a licensed professional social worker with more than 25 years experience working with children and families. Daryn earned her Master's degree in social work from the Ohio State University. Her early career was in community mental health making home visits to engage children, adolescents and parents in counseling. Once Daryn's children were school age, she embarked on a 10 year journey working in juvenile jail to continue working with children, adolescents and parents in crisis. At this time, Daryn became trained in trauma informed care over a 2 year period of time.
Daryn V. Hunt is a licensed professional social worker with more than 25 years experience working with children and families. Daryn earned her Master's degree in social work from the Ohio State University. Her early career was in community mental health making home visits to engage children, adolescents and parents in counseling. Once Daryn's children were school age, she embarked on a 10 year journey working in juvenile jail to continue working with children, adolescents and parents in crisis. At this time, Daryn became trained in trauma informed care over a 2 year period of time.
(380) 333-9801 View (380) 333-9801
Photo of Marie Hagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Marie Hagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Marie Hagan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA from Villanova University and an MA from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Marie believes growth comes from first mastering empathy for yourself. She strives to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive space for her clients to create a strong foundation for treatment. Marie is passionate about the helping profession and motivates through strength-based, person-centered care.
Marie Hagan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA from Villanova University and an MA from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Marie believes growth comes from first mastering empathy for yourself. She strives to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive space for her clients to create a strong foundation for treatment. Marie is passionate about the helping profession and motivates through strength-based, person-centered care.
(440) 659-1765 View (440) 659-1765
Photo of Alison Brammer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Strongsville, OH
Alison Brammer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strongsville, OH 44136
Starting therapy can be a scary process. Knowing this, I strive to create a safe and healing environment. I believe we all have the ability to move through/grow through difficult life experiences if provided the right tools. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, a traumatic event, or life transition, I will help guide you through your journey of self-awareness and positive change.
Starting therapy can be a scary process. Knowing this, I strive to create a safe and healing environment. I believe we all have the ability to move through/grow through difficult life experiences if provided the right tools. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, a traumatic event, or life transition, I will help guide you through your journey of self-awareness and positive change.
(440) 695-3948 View (440) 695-3948
Photo of Natalie Grandy, Psychologist in Strongsville, OH
Natalie Grandy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Strongsville, OH 44136
Dr. Grandy is a Licensed Psychologist who strongly believes that curiosity and compassion are at the heart of change and is committed to her own journey of life-long learning and development. She graduated from the University of Akron with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, where she received extensive training in psychological research, treatment, and assessment. Dr. Grandy works with adults whose concerns range from the stress of normal life to severe and debilitating mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Grandy is a Licensed Psychologist who strongly believes that curiosity and compassion are at the heart of change and is committed to her own journey of life-long learning and development. She graduated from the University of Akron with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, where she received extensive training in psychological research, treatment, and assessment. Dr. Grandy works with adults whose concerns range from the stress of normal life to severe and debilitating mood and anxiety disorders.
(440) 739-7259 View (440) 739-7259

See more therapy options for Strongsville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Strongsville, OH

80+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Strongsville, OH who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
95% Depression
81% Trauma and PTSD
79% Self Esteem
79% Life Transitions
77% Grief
75% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Medical Mutual
91% Anthem | Elevance
90% Aetna

How Therapists in Strongsville, OH see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Strongsville?

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.