Therapists in Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC

Joseph Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
I am Joseph Baker, a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience in providing psychotherapy to clients of all ages. My experiential training is in cognitive behavioral therapy; however, I am experienced in providing other therapeutic modalities including motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, reality-based therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, family and couples therapy. My approach is humanistic-based, with behavioral cognitive and insight-oriented interventions. My assessments and evaluations are comprehensive bio-psychosocial in nature.
I am Joseph Baker, a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience in providing psychotherapy to clients of all ages. My experiential training is in cognitive behavioral therapy; however, I am experienced in providing other therapeutic modalities including motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, reality-based therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, family and couples therapy. My approach is humanistic-based, with behavioral cognitive and insight-oriented interventions. My assessments and evaluations are comprehensive bio-psychosocial in nature.

Marley Toben
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
Queer relationships are as exhilarating as they are daunting. With no prescribed rules, roles, or rituals, we get to write the book! But what happens when endless possibilities meet very little role modeling and very high stakes? Writer's block. If you're in a queer partnership—including you queer folks in cis-het passing relationships—and you're looking to cultivate deeper intimacy, transform those lingering childhood strategies that show up when you argue (or refuse to!), explore if "monogamish" might work for you, or learn how to stand up for your relationship and set boundaries with love, I’m here for it.
Queer relationships are as exhilarating as they are daunting. With no prescribed rules, roles, or rituals, we get to write the book! But what happens when endless possibilities meet very little role modeling and very high stakes? Writer's block. If you're in a queer partnership—including you queer folks in cis-het passing relationships—and you're looking to cultivate deeper intimacy, transform those lingering childhood strategies that show up when you argue (or refuse to!), explore if "monogamish" might work for you, or learn how to stand up for your relationship and set boundaries with love, I’m here for it.

Do you find yourself struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings, unable to sleep at night and desperate for something to change? Maybe you find yourself struggling to manage your life and relationships, feeling stuck and beating yourself up about it. I understand how it feels to struggle in this messy and beautiful world, unsure if things will ever get better. If you’re still reading this then you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to take a chance on therapy. Most of all, you’re ready to build a life that is full, rich and meaningful. I want to help you get there. If nothing changes, then nothing changes.
Do you find yourself struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings, unable to sleep at night and desperate for something to change? Maybe you find yourself struggling to manage your life and relationships, feeling stuck and beating yourself up about it. I understand how it feels to struggle in this messy and beautiful world, unsure if things will ever get better. If you’re still reading this then you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to take a chance on therapy. Most of all, you’re ready to build a life that is full, rich and meaningful. I want to help you get there. If nothing changes, then nothing changes.

Jimmy Treires
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27601
Many individuals struggle with social conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, mood disorders and stress. I believe the journey in the therapist-client relationship begins with a safe, trusting therapeutic environment and ends with the client being empowered to manage life's many challenges. This is very rewarding to me personally and I look forward to helping you obtain the quality of life you desire. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in setting up an appointment.
Many individuals struggle with social conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, mood disorders and stress. I believe the journey in the therapist-client relationship begins with a safe, trusting therapeutic environment and ends with the client being empowered to manage life's many challenges. This is very rewarding to me personally and I look forward to helping you obtain the quality of life you desire. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in setting up an appointment.

Dr. Lucille Keenan
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27605
If you are feeling troubled, together we can sort out why you are having difficulty, develop clarity on the obstacles that stand in your way, and assist you in making the changes you want for yourself. Maybe you're ready to make big changes in your life, looking for support through a stressful time, and/or simply wanting a place to understand your feelings so you can know what decisions to make. I find joy in assisting clients to be more of who they are, to enjoy life fully, and to realize their true potential, as well as in helping couples reconnect and find a place of healing that allows a secure and loving connection.
If you are feeling troubled, together we can sort out why you are having difficulty, develop clarity on the obstacles that stand in your way, and assist you in making the changes you want for yourself. Maybe you're ready to make big changes in your life, looking for support through a stressful time, and/or simply wanting a place to understand your feelings so you can know what decisions to make. I find joy in assisting clients to be more of who they are, to enjoy life fully, and to realize their true potential, as well as in helping couples reconnect and find a place of healing that allows a secure and loving connection.

Michael James
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
I know life can throw us curveballs, making it challenging to navigate alone, so congratulations on taking this important step on your healing journey. I understand firsthand the mix of emotions that come with starting therapy. Having walked a similar path to many of my clients, I know how challenging healing can be. Seeking help is brave, even though it can feel intimidating at first. It marks the beginning of overcoming life's hurdles and finding a path forward. I specialize in supporting clients through life adjustments, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and career and relationship challenges.
I know life can throw us curveballs, making it challenging to navigate alone, so congratulations on taking this important step on your healing journey. I understand firsthand the mix of emotions that come with starting therapy. Having walked a similar path to many of my clients, I know how challenging healing can be. Seeking help is brave, even though it can feel intimidating at first. It marks the beginning of overcoming life's hurdles and finding a path forward. I specialize in supporting clients through life adjustments, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and career and relationship challenges.

Are you struggling with anxiety, burnout, injury, self-esteem, or life/career transitions? You are not alone! My speciality is working with performance-based populations: military, athletes, and performers. The pressure to maintain peak physical and mental readiness to achieve high levels of success, whether through operational missions, winning competitions, or delivering flawless performances can lead to emotional distress. These mental health struggles are often compounded by a culture that prioritizes physical achievements over mental health, making it difficult for these populations to seek help.
Are you struggling with anxiety, burnout, injury, self-esteem, or life/career transitions? You are not alone! My speciality is working with performance-based populations: military, athletes, and performers. The pressure to maintain peak physical and mental readiness to achieve high levels of success, whether through operational missions, winning competitions, or delivering flawless performances can lead to emotional distress. These mental health struggles are often compounded by a culture that prioritizes physical achievements over mental health, making it difficult for these populations to seek help.

Brittani Procknow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
Do you want to feel at understood in your relationships, but you struggle with communicating emotions? In your relationship, you want to deeply understand one another, break out of unhelpful patterns, and feel the energy you once had. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. One thing is for sure: you want to relate better. You’re ready to enjoy meaningful relationships without feeling the need to over-achieve. You’re ready to take the courageous step towards vulnerability. Most of all, you’re ready to go from complacent to passionate. Relationship therapy helps you relate deeper to yourself and others.
Do you want to feel at understood in your relationships, but you struggle with communicating emotions? In your relationship, you want to deeply understand one another, break out of unhelpful patterns, and feel the energy you once had. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. One thing is for sure: you want to relate better. You’re ready to enjoy meaningful relationships without feeling the need to over-achieve. You’re ready to take the courageous step towards vulnerability. Most of all, you’re ready to go from complacent to passionate. Relationship therapy helps you relate deeper to yourself and others.

You're constantly fighting those racing thoughts and questioning yourself. You notice your confidence is low which gets in the way of your relationships or responsibilities. You struggle with memories of the past or worries about the future. You wonder what others may be thinking about you or how to approach someone new to develop relationships. Your mind may be on an endless loop and intrusive thoughts may lead to feelings of fear. You find that you've lost pieces of yourself and don't fully know who you are or what you want. You realize that maybe it is time to seek help, maybe change is what you need. I'm here to help!
You're constantly fighting those racing thoughts and questioning yourself. You notice your confidence is low which gets in the way of your relationships or responsibilities. You struggle with memories of the past or worries about the future. You wonder what others may be thinking about you or how to approach someone new to develop relationships. Your mind may be on an endless loop and intrusive thoughts may lead to feelings of fear. You find that you've lost pieces of yourself and don't fully know who you are or what you want. You realize that maybe it is time to seek help, maybe change is what you need. I'm here to help!

Alexandra Whicker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
Time and time again, I have witnessed the transformative power of authentic self-connection. It can lead to relief from anxiety and depression, regaining a sense of self, and more. As an Art Therapist, my wish is to empower you to tap into your creativity and use it as a tool for self-expression and healing while gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and my goal is to empower you to tap into your inner resources. My therapeutic approach combines humor, curiosity, and compassion with a healthy dose of "telling it like it is".
Time and time again, I have witnessed the transformative power of authentic self-connection. It can lead to relief from anxiety and depression, regaining a sense of self, and more. As an Art Therapist, my wish is to empower you to tap into your creativity and use it as a tool for self-expression and healing while gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and my goal is to empower you to tap into your inner resources. My therapeutic approach combines humor, curiosity, and compassion with a healthy dose of "telling it like it is".

Eva Miller
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MPS, ATR, LCMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a registered art therapist and licensed clinical mental health counselor with a creative and person-centered approach. You do not have to be an artist to benefit from art therapy. In fact, some of the most profound shifts I have witnessed have occurred with people who do not identify as artistic in any way. You are simply asked to bring a sense of openness and curiosity to our collaboration, where you will be invited to be active in setting the pace and goals of our work together. My philosophy is that art and creativity facilitate insight, growth, and healing.
Hello! I am a registered art therapist and licensed clinical mental health counselor with a creative and person-centered approach. You do not have to be an artist to benefit from art therapy. In fact, some of the most profound shifts I have witnessed have occurred with people who do not identify as artistic in any way. You are simply asked to bring a sense of openness and curiosity to our collaboration, where you will be invited to be active in setting the pace and goals of our work together. My philosophy is that art and creativity facilitate insight, growth, and healing.
Meet Our Therapists

Richard Sladich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27605
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I currently have limited openings for accepting new clients. Need help with Social Anxiety, generalized anxiety, Autism spectrum, ADHD, or Depression? I specialize in those issues, but I also focus on the issues of panic attacks, phobias, agoraphobia, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also help with relationship issues, learning to advocate for yourself, and setting boundaries. I am available for in person or virtual sessions. I am a Certified TEAM-CBT Therapist with the Feeling Good Institute.
Hello, I currently have limited openings for accepting new clients. Need help with Social Anxiety, generalized anxiety, Autism spectrum, ADHD, or Depression? I specialize in those issues, but I also focus on the issues of panic attacks, phobias, agoraphobia, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also help with relationship issues, learning to advocate for yourself, and setting boundaries. I am available for in person or virtual sessions. I am a Certified TEAM-CBT Therapist with the Feeling Good Institute.

Amanda Hardenbrook
Licensed clinical mental health counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27605
Not accepting new clients
I am not taking new clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, work-life balance, relationship distress, or parenting? I can help. Or maybe with life transitions such as marriage, divorce, changing jobs, or adjusting through the changes of adolescence into adulthood? I can help. I can help as you take your life in directions that feel positive and healthy. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor, in private practice since 2006. I work with adults, emerging adults, and adolescents. I encourage your own personal empowerment and growth through a counseling relationship built on trust, respect, and compassion.
I am not taking new clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, work-life balance, relationship distress, or parenting? I can help. Or maybe with life transitions such as marriage, divorce, changing jobs, or adjusting through the changes of adolescence into adulthood? I can help. I can help as you take your life in directions that feel positive and healthy. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor, in private practice since 2006. I work with adults, emerging adults, and adolescents. I encourage your own personal empowerment and growth through a counseling relationship built on trust, respect, and compassion.

Community Counseling, Education, & Research Ctr
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
The Community Counseling, Education, and Research Center (CCERC) of the NC State Counselor Education Program provides short-term and affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. CCERC is only offering Distance Counseling at this time Counseling at CCERC focuses on healthy personal, emotional, social, and career development. The CCERC mission is to provide world-class community counseling and develop counselors and supervisors for multicultural and The CCERC vision is to be a national model for world class, multicultural, and social justice-counseling, supervision, education, training, research, and advocacy.
The Community Counseling, Education, and Research Center (CCERC) of the NC State Counselor Education Program provides short-term and affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. CCERC is only offering Distance Counseling at this time Counseling at CCERC focuses on healthy personal, emotional, social, and career development. The CCERC mission is to provide world-class community counseling and develop counselors and supervisors for multicultural and The CCERC vision is to be a national model for world class, multicultural, and social justice-counseling, supervision, education, training, research, and advocacy.

Have major parts of you been overshadowed by the stress of just trying to survive and get by? Have the expectations and demands from others to be a certain way left no room for self-discovery, acceptance and expansion? Painful past experiences, childhood trauma, and oppressive environments have taught many of us to silence our needs, prioritize others, not trust ourselves, and bury our true feelings. You are on the path to the next phase in your journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I know that even in light of the inner drive to reclaim authenticity, experiences from our past can linger and get in the way.
Have major parts of you been overshadowed by the stress of just trying to survive and get by? Have the expectations and demands from others to be a certain way left no room for self-discovery, acceptance and expansion? Painful past experiences, childhood trauma, and oppressive environments have taught many of us to silence our needs, prioritize others, not trust ourselves, and bury our true feelings. You are on the path to the next phase in your journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I know that even in light of the inner drive to reclaim authenticity, experiences from our past can linger and get in the way.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck in past struggles, or uncertain about how to navigate life’s challenges? Life's difficulties aren't always predictable, and it’s easy to feel like you're juggling everything while barely making time for yourself. If you're ready to step out of the cycle and into a place of healing, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll work to reclaim balance and create a path toward a happier, more emotionally stable life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck in past struggles, or uncertain about how to navigate life’s challenges? Life's difficulties aren't always predictable, and it’s easy to feel like you're juggling everything while barely making time for yourself. If you're ready to step out of the cycle and into a place of healing, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll work to reclaim balance and create a path toward a happier, more emotionally stable life.

I specialize in helping clients navigate relationship challenges, queer identities, difficulties with family members, acceptance of self, intimacy, chronic illnesses, and transitional life changes. Situating yourself as a unique person in a complex world is hard, especially when you try to do it alone, and asking for help takes courage. I’m here to help you figure out the hard stuff, cancel out the noise, and delight in the joy.
I specialize in helping clients navigate relationship challenges, queer identities, difficulties with family members, acceptance of self, intimacy, chronic illnesses, and transitional life changes. Situating yourself as a unique person in a complex world is hard, especially when you try to do it alone, and asking for help takes courage. I’m here to help you figure out the hard stuff, cancel out the noise, and delight in the joy.

I am currently accepting new Telehealth clients! - Any number of barriers could impede peak performance. Anxiety, burnout, injury, external pressures, and trauma are but a few of the challenges my clients regularly face. Any one of these factors can lead to feelings of disappointment, dissatisfaction, and/or diminished self-esteem. Sometimes, my clients are unaware of the underlying mechanisms contributing to performance breakdown, distress, or loss of enjoyment in sport/performance or life in general. This can lead to maladaptive behaviors and beliefs that perpetuate a debilitative cycle.
I am currently accepting new Telehealth clients! - Any number of barriers could impede peak performance. Anxiety, burnout, injury, external pressures, and trauma are but a few of the challenges my clients regularly face. Any one of these factors can lead to feelings of disappointment, dissatisfaction, and/or diminished self-esteem. Sometimes, my clients are unaware of the underlying mechanisms contributing to performance breakdown, distress, or loss of enjoyment in sport/performance or life in general. This can lead to maladaptive behaviors and beliefs that perpetuate a debilitative cycle.

As a clinical psychologist, I help clients gain clarity and to find resolution to seemingly insurmountable issues and problems. I specialize in treating adults throughout the life cycle who have anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and/or relationship issues. By providing a compassionate and validating environment, clients are empowered to identify their needs and the means to get those needs met. I believe that each individual has their own voice and that therapy can facilitate its strengthening and emergence as a guiding force.
As a clinical psychologist, I help clients gain clarity and to find resolution to seemingly insurmountable issues and problems. I specialize in treating adults throughout the life cycle who have anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and/or relationship issues. By providing a compassionate and validating environment, clients are empowered to identify their needs and the means to get those needs met. I believe that each individual has their own voice and that therapy can facilitate its strengthening and emergence as a guiding force.

Cassandra Calin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC 27603
Over the course of our lives, we are told stories about ourselves. Oftentimes those stories aren't true. Sometimes they're harmful. Usually they get in the way of us being able to truly understand ourselves and grow in the ways we want to. I work with clients to explore the stories they hold about themselves, their own definition of mental wellness, and the tools that might help them to move toward it. I am excited to offer individuals, partners, families, and friends a sacred, therapeutic space to sift through those stories, where they come from, and whether they serve you or block you from a fuller taste of joy.
Over the course of our lives, we are told stories about ourselves. Oftentimes those stories aren't true. Sometimes they're harmful. Usually they get in the way of us being able to truly understand ourselves and grow in the ways we want to. I work with clients to explore the stories they hold about themselves, their own definition of mental wellness, and the tools that might help them to move toward it. I am excited to offer individuals, partners, families, and friends a sacred, therapeutic space to sift through those stories, where they come from, and whether they serve you or block you from a fuller taste of joy.
See more therapy options for Hillsborough, Raleigh
Nearby Searches for Hillsborough, Raleigh
- Central
- Glenwood
- Glenwood South
- Glenwood Village
- Glenwood-Brooklyn
- Hayes Barton
- Moore Square
- North Carolina State University
- University Park
- Wade
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC
60+
Average cost per session
$152
Therapists in Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
81% | Self Esteem |
78% | Coping Skills |
78% | Stress |
75% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Aetna |
34% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Hillsborough, Raleigh, NC see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Hillsborough, Raleigh?
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
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.
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.
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.