Therapists in Southfield, MI

Photo of Sonya Coleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Sonya Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family issues, self esteem issues, work or life stressors? Are you ready to take control of your mental health and emotional well-being? Let’s explore what’s impacting you and build tools to help you cope while creating meaningful change at your own pace. As a dedicated and compassionate clinician my mission is to create a safe non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their strengths and move toward personal growth and change.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family issues, self esteem issues, work or life stressors? Are you ready to take control of your mental health and emotional well-being? Let’s explore what’s impacting you and build tools to help you cope while creating meaningful change at your own pace. As a dedicated and compassionate clinician my mission is to create a safe non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their strengths and move toward personal growth and change.
(248) 290-9978 View (248) 290-9978
Photo of LaShawn Smith-Nava, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
LaShawn Smith-Nava
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Southfield, MI 48076
Your past does not dictate your future. As a survivor of abuse, I understand the courage it takes to begin healing. I specialize in helping individuals cultivate strength, stability, and self-awareness as they navigate life beyond trauma. I believe healing begins with balance—honoring where you’ve been while intentionally building where you’re going. My goal within the therapeutic relationship is to foster empowerment, insight, and support. Together, we will gently identify and acknowledge your feelings and fears, creating space to process them safely and develop healthy, practical ways to move forward.
Your past does not dictate your future. As a survivor of abuse, I understand the courage it takes to begin healing. I specialize in helping individuals cultivate strength, stability, and self-awareness as they navigate life beyond trauma. I believe healing begins with balance—honoring where you’ve been while intentionally building where you’re going. My goal within the therapeutic relationship is to foster empowerment, insight, and support. Together, we will gently identify and acknowledge your feelings and fears, creating space to process them safely and develop healthy, practical ways to move forward.
(248) 450-0795 View (248) 450-0795
Photo of Fernande Ayoub - Positive Kids , Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Positive Kids
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Southfield, MI 48033
Does your child struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, or other big emotions? As specialists in child psychology, Positive Kids understands that choosing the right therapist for your child is crucial. You want someone who truly understands the complexities of a child's emotional development and can provide the right support at the right time. At Positive Kids, we are pioneers and trailblazers in children's mental and emotional health, trusted by thousands of families. As a child psychologist team, we specialize in working with children who experience intense emotions. We focus on helping them better understand
Does your child struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, or other big emotions? As specialists in child psychology, Positive Kids understands that choosing the right therapist for your child is crucial. You want someone who truly understands the complexities of a child's emotional development and can provide the right support at the right time. At Positive Kids, we are pioneers and trailblazers in children's mental and emotional health, trusted by thousands of families. As a child psychologist team, we specialize in working with children who experience intense emotions. We focus on helping them better understand
(313) 569-2729 View (313) 569-2729
Photo of Ileah-Mare Smith-Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor, SSP, MA, LPC
Ileah-Mare Smith-Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, SSP, MA, LPC
Online Only
As a dedicated mental health counselor and life coach with over 21 years of experience, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals through their emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, families, and groups, helping them navigate the complexities of life and mental wellness. By fostering a collaborative and non-judgmental space, I work alongside my clients to help them gain insight into their challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
As a dedicated mental health counselor and life coach with over 21 years of experience, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals through their emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, families, and groups, helping them navigate the complexities of life and mental wellness. By fostering a collaborative and non-judgmental space, I work alongside my clients to help them gain insight into their challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
(248) 609-1108 View (248) 609-1108
Photo of Jessica Dubey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CFSW
Jessica Dubey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CFSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hey there! My name is Jess, and I truly love being a therapist. :) This work is my life’s calling and guides my practice as a clinician. My passion shows up in the relationships I build with my clients and the growth they experience while in my care. As your therapist, I will show up for you, advocate for you, and genuinely care about you. Therapy is a process and takes effort, but together we can make it an enjoyable experience. We will work toward becoming the version of yourself you want to be through intentional goal setting and simply supporting you along the way—because change can be hard, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Hey there! My name is Jess, and I truly love being a therapist. :) This work is my life’s calling and guides my practice as a clinician. My passion shows up in the relationships I build with my clients and the growth they experience while in my care. As your therapist, I will show up for you, advocate for you, and genuinely care about you. Therapy is a process and takes effort, but together we can make it an enjoyable experience. We will work toward becoming the version of yourself you want to be through intentional goal setting and simply supporting you along the way—because change can be hard, but you don’t have to do it alone.
(586) 238-3606 View (586) 238-3606
Photo of Jeffrey Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jeffrey Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
Therapy is a great way to help you turn the pain you feel today into the strength you feel tomorrow. My philosophy is simple: I help people become an expert on one subject, themselves! We as human beings are very complex and often need help to navigate through stress, trauma, and life challenges. I witnessed firsthand how therapy can change the trajectory of one’s life. I am committed to working alongside my clients to help them find their inner healing and peace. I have worked with people from many cultures, genders, and backgrounds. Licensed in MI and TN.
Therapy is a great way to help you turn the pain you feel today into the strength you feel tomorrow. My philosophy is simple: I help people become an expert on one subject, themselves! We as human beings are very complex and often need help to navigate through stress, trauma, and life challenges. I witnessed firsthand how therapy can change the trajectory of one’s life. I am committed to working alongside my clients to help them find their inner healing and peace. I have worked with people from many cultures, genders, and backgrounds. Licensed in MI and TN.
(313) 474-8546 View (313) 474-8546
Photo of Mary Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SSW
Mary Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SSW
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48034
Mary uses a multi-faceted approach to meet clients where they are and help empower them to learn the tools they need to help them be successful and thrive. She believes that the things we need to bloom are within us all, and collaborating with clients to do just that is her passion.
Mary uses a multi-faceted approach to meet clients where they are and help empower them to learn the tools they need to help them be successful and thrive. She believes that the things we need to bloom are within us all, and collaborating with clients to do just that is her passion.
(248) 826-1456 View (248) 826-1456
Photo of Crystal J Mosby, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal J Mosby
Licensed Professional Counselor
Southfield, MI 48076
What moment changed your life? I've found that on this journey we call life, there are specific moments that change the course of our path and complicate our journey. I believe my role is to assist you getting back on the right path, and sort out the cause, so you can reach your destination. I enjoy practicing person centered counseling because it allows me to meet you where you are at and together explore where your new path will lead.
What moment changed your life? I've found that on this journey we call life, there are specific moments that change the course of our path and complicate our journey. I believe my role is to assist you getting back on the right path, and sort out the cause, so you can reach your destination. I enjoy practicing person centered counseling because it allows me to meet you where you are at and together explore where your new path will lead.
(734) 749-9812 View (734) 749-9812
Photo of Dr. Brandi Pritchett-Johnson, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Brandi Pritchett-Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
I am Dr. Brandi! I have been described as "iconic" and have a proven record of therapeutic effectiveness. I am interested in working with clients that are serious and about their healing. I tend to push the limits in the name of wellness, whole health, and wholehearted living. I only work with serious and courageous clients interested in investing in life transformation. If you are ready to experience deep therapeutic transformation, give me a call!
I am Dr. Brandi! I have been described as "iconic" and have a proven record of therapeutic effectiveness. I am interested in working with clients that are serious and about their healing. I tend to push the limits in the name of wellness, whole health, and wholehearted living. I only work with serious and courageous clients interested in investing in life transformation. If you are ready to experience deep therapeutic transformation, give me a call!
(313) 650-6650 View (313) 650-6650
Photo of Pam Raj - Trusting Konnections, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, EMDR--C
Trusting Konnections
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, EMDR--C
Southfield, MI 48076
Providing services for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, anger management, substance dependence and more! Therapy will be a place where you can express yourself without judgment and feel safe! The experience will be one of growth as you develop insight into yourself and new ways to cope! A typical treatment plan may involve goals stated in your words of what you hope to accomplish during treatment along with measurable objectives to help get you there! Currently offering an Intensive Outpatient Program for Substance Use, starts Sept 3rd !
Providing services for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, anger management, substance dependence and more! Therapy will be a place where you can express yourself without judgment and feel safe! The experience will be one of growth as you develop insight into yourself and new ways to cope! A typical treatment plan may involve goals stated in your words of what you hope to accomplish during treatment along with measurable objectives to help get you there! Currently offering an Intensive Outpatient Program for Substance Use, starts Sept 3rd !
(248) 985-2818 View (248) 985-2818
Photo of Mary Thomason, Pre-Licensed Professional, student, intern
Mary Thomason
Pre-Licensed Professional, student, intern
Southfield, MI 48076
Hello, I am Mary Thomason, a counseling intern with a specialization in art therapy from Pennsylvania Western University. I take a holistic approach to counseling, honoring each unique person's journey by working from a number of perspectives. I believe the space between us is sacred, and that it is a safe container and a relationship of witness that allows for deep healing to take place. I have a passion for community work and women's groups that provide space for deep healing and witness. By healing as a community we heal the burden of individualism and step into the truth of healing as a collective and relational practice.
Hello, I am Mary Thomason, a counseling intern with a specialization in art therapy from Pennsylvania Western University. I take a holistic approach to counseling, honoring each unique person's journey by working from a number of perspectives. I believe the space between us is sacred, and that it is a safe container and a relationship of witness that allows for deep healing to take place. I have a passion for community work and women's groups that provide space for deep healing and witness. By healing as a community we heal the burden of individualism and step into the truth of healing as a collective and relational practice.
(248) 319-6544 View (248) 319-6544
Photo of Lianne Paskel - Living Potential LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CAADC, CPLC, CDRLC
Living Potential LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CAADC, CPLC, CDRLC
Southfield, MI 48075
My ideal client is someone who admits they need help due to the fact that what they have been trying thus far is not working. They are looking to better themselves or help remedy life conflicts, stress, trauma, addiction, or daily life struggles. A client who is ready to engage in having a thoughtful, nurturing, safe space to help them move to a healthier life style and finding peace within. My new and ongoing training aligns with my core-values and therapeutic approach. I am confident the more I continue to learn, the better I am equipped to serve the individual needs of my clients.
My ideal client is someone who admits they need help due to the fact that what they have been trying thus far is not working. They are looking to better themselves or help remedy life conflicts, stress, trauma, addiction, or daily life struggles. A client who is ready to engage in having a thoughtful, nurturing, safe space to help them move to a healthier life style and finding peace within. My new and ongoing training aligns with my core-values and therapeutic approach. I am confident the more I continue to learn, the better I am equipped to serve the individual needs of my clients.
(248) 243-6603 View (248) 243-6603
Photo of Khadijah H. Mutakabbir, Master Social Worker, LLMSW
Khadijah H. Mutakabbir
Master Social Worker, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48033
Are you or your child struggling with unsettled or uncertain emotions? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, or even confused about your life or behaviors? Look no further than here! As a goal-oriented therapist, I help my clients thrive by providing emotional support, resources, and a judgement free space to speak freely about the trials and tribulations impacting their wellbeing. I believe that all behaviors are unoriginal and rooted in something that we have experienced and in turn learned. When we connect negative behaviors to their root cause, we become clearer, lighter, and more confident in reaching life's goals.
Are you or your child struggling with unsettled or uncertain emotions? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, or even confused about your life or behaviors? Look no further than here! As a goal-oriented therapist, I help my clients thrive by providing emotional support, resources, and a judgement free space to speak freely about the trials and tribulations impacting their wellbeing. I believe that all behaviors are unoriginal and rooted in something that we have experienced and in turn learned. When we connect negative behaviors to their root cause, we become clearer, lighter, and more confident in reaching life's goals.
(248) 800-2532 View (248) 800-2532
Photo of Sharisse Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sharisse Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am committed to supporting the growth of your emotional well‑being. Together, we will explore concerns such as anxiety, trauma, and other complex challenges that may be impacting your daily life and relationships. So many of us keep moving forward without pausing to reflect on our experiences and their lasting effects. By seeking support, you have already taken an important step toward meaningful change. I invite you to join me in a transformative process of discovering what happiness, healing, and fulfillment truly look like for you!
I am committed to supporting the growth of your emotional well‑being. Together, we will explore concerns such as anxiety, trauma, and other complex challenges that may be impacting your daily life and relationships. So many of us keep moving forward without pausing to reflect on our experiences and their lasting effects. By seeking support, you have already taken an important step toward meaningful change. I invite you to join me in a transformative process of discovering what happiness, healing, and fulfillment truly look like for you!
(248) 283-3309 View (248) 283-3309
Photo of Celeste J. Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Celeste J. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Online Only
I am a doctoral-level Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals across the lifespan and from diverse racial, cultural, and gender identities. I provide individual and couples counseling and support clients who are navigating anxiety, depression, identity concerns, life transitions, mood-related challenges, career concerns, and relationship issues. I view therapy as a collaborative and supportive process. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to address challenges while also promoting wellness, self-awareness, and personal growth.
I am a doctoral-level Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals across the lifespan and from diverse racial, cultural, and gender identities. I provide individual and couples counseling and support clients who are navigating anxiety, depression, identity concerns, life transitions, mood-related challenges, career concerns, and relationship issues. I view therapy as a collaborative and supportive process. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to address challenges while also promoting wellness, self-awareness, and personal growth.
(810) 242-3064 View (810) 242-3064
Photo of Amy Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Amy Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
Waitlist for new clients
You've done a lot of therapy or inner work and understand how your past has shaped you, but you've realized that insight and talk therapy isn't getting you where you were hoping to be. This doesn't mean that there is anything wrong with you, it means that something happened to you, and for many people, talking about it doesn't allow them to heal from it. Many of my clients know why they struggle and are looking for deeper trauma work to help them break free.
You've done a lot of therapy or inner work and understand how your past has shaped you, but you've realized that insight and talk therapy isn't getting you where you were hoping to be. This doesn't mean that there is anything wrong with you, it means that something happened to you, and for many people, talking about it doesn't allow them to heal from it. Many of my clients know why they struggle and are looking for deeper trauma work to help them break free.
(248) 831-0163 View (248) 831-0163
Photo of Brandi McKenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Brandi McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Southfield, MI 48034
Life can look “fine” on the outside while feeling overwhelmed on the inside. Sometimes the hardest struggles are the ones no one else can see. Many of the women I work with are juggling careers, relationships, motherhood, and endless responsibilities, yet quietly struggling with anxiety, emotional exhaustion, grief, and feeling disconnected from themselves. You don’t have to carry everything alone. I will be honored to walk alongside you on your journey towards emotional wellness, balance, and becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
Life can look “fine” on the outside while feeling overwhelmed on the inside. Sometimes the hardest struggles are the ones no one else can see. Many of the women I work with are juggling careers, relationships, motherhood, and endless responsibilities, yet quietly struggling with anxiety, emotional exhaustion, grief, and feeling disconnected from themselves. You don’t have to carry everything alone. I will be honored to walk alongside you on your journey towards emotional wellness, balance, and becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
(248) 609-1422 View (248) 609-1422
Photo of Greg Dudzinski, Counselor, MS, LPC
Greg Dudzinski
Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
My passion is helping couples grow more connected, deeper in love than they have ever experienced! I also help individuals become more self-assured, move beyond past traumas and heart aches. I work on healing the devastation of an affair and rebuilding trust. YES It is possible! Ultimately, it's my purpose to improve your relationship or personal life! Most importantly, I don't place "band-aids" over difficulties; I strive to help you instill healthy changes that last a life time! My services are prided on non-biased, caring approaches, using scientifically proven methods, in a Down-to-Earth setting. I do see many people of color.
My passion is helping couples grow more connected, deeper in love than they have ever experienced! I also help individuals become more self-assured, move beyond past traumas and heart aches. I work on healing the devastation of an affair and rebuilding trust. YES It is possible! Ultimately, it's my purpose to improve your relationship or personal life! Most importantly, I don't place "band-aids" over difficulties; I strive to help you instill healthy changes that last a life time! My services are prided on non-biased, caring approaches, using scientifically proven methods, in a Down-to-Earth setting. I do see many people of color.
(313) 614-9498 View (313) 614-9498
Photo of Levi Hiller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Levi Hiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
As human beings we all have struggles, challenges that may seem to be beyond our individual strengths. But our greatest strength is to have the courage to admit these struggles to ourselves and to utilize our humility in reaching out for help. You are not alone in this fight, there are other people and research-based skills that can aid you in your journey. There is hope, there is a purpose to your pain, together we can figure it out.
As human beings we all have struggles, challenges that may seem to be beyond our individual strengths. But our greatest strength is to have the courage to admit these struggles to ourselves and to utilize our humility in reaching out for help. You are not alone in this fight, there are other people and research-based skills that can aid you in your journey. There is hope, there is a purpose to your pain, together we can figure it out.
(313) 450-9607 View (313) 450-9607
Photo of Tiffani Allen, Counselor, MA, LLPC
Tiffani Allen
Counselor, MA, LLPC
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
Feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or emotionally exhausted? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with adults, children, teens, and families who feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You may be an adult facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship challenges. You may be a parent noticing emotional, behavioral, or anxiety-related concerns in your child. Or you may be part of a family where communication feels strained and emotions are difficult to manage.
Feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or emotionally exhausted? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with adults, children, teens, and families who feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You may be an adult facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship challenges. You may be a parent noticing emotional, behavioral, or anxiety-related concerns in your child. Or you may be part of a family where communication feels strained and emotions are difficult to manage.
(248) 218-9347 View (248) 218-9347

See more therapy options for Southfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Southfield, MI

600+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Southfield, MI who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
69% Stress
65% Trauma and PTSD
62% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Aetna
62% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Southfield, MI see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Southfield?

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.