Therapists in Bowling Green, KY

Photo of Linly Calixte, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Linly Calixte
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MAed, LPCC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42104
In a world that is moving faster than it ever has, I love to support individuals and couples of all genders who are looking to slow down and explore their inner world. I choose to work with those who are motivated for change and willing to feel their way through the discomfort of this process. Whether it be a major life transition, anxiety, body image concerns/insecurity, distorted eating habits, trauma, distraction, compulsion, difficulty self-regulating, deep rooted pain, fear, or relationship concerns, I want to walk with you into a deeper sense of safety, awareness and acceptance.
In a world that is moving faster than it ever has, I love to support individuals and couples of all genders who are looking to slow down and explore their inner world. I choose to work with those who are motivated for change and willing to feel their way through the discomfort of this process. Whether it be a major life transition, anxiety, body image concerns/insecurity, distorted eating habits, trauma, distraction, compulsion, difficulty self-regulating, deep rooted pain, fear, or relationship concerns, I want to walk with you into a deeper sense of safety, awareness and acceptance.
(270) 817-4450 View (270) 817-4450
Photo of Nathan Laramore, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Nathan Laramore
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42101
In my practice, I specialize in addressing a spectrum of emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges, placing a particular focus on anxiety, substance abuse, and depression.
In my practice, I specialize in addressing a spectrum of emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges, placing a particular focus on anxiety, substance abuse, and depression.
(270) 477-6014 View (270) 477-6014
Photo of Nathan Heltsley, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Nathan Heltsley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LCADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and/or struggles with substance use. They are looking for a safe and supportive environment to work through their issues and find healing and recovery. They understand the importance of addressing their mental health and are motivated to make positive changes in their life. Their goals include building coping skills, improving relationships, and finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Their desire for change stems from a desire to live a happier and healthier life, free from the negative impacts of trauma and substance use.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and/or struggles with substance use. They are looking for a safe and supportive environment to work through their issues and find healing and recovery. They understand the importance of addressing their mental health and are motivated to make positive changes in their life. Their goals include building coping skills, improving relationships, and finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Their desire for change stems from a desire to live a happier and healthier life, free from the negative impacts of trauma and substance use.
(270) 975-2679 View (270) 975-2679
Photo of Kayla Houk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Kayla Houk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101  (Online Only)
Working with a therapist is nothing to be ashamed of. Sometimes we all need to work through the highs and lows in our lives and strive to reach our goals that we have for ourselves. As a therapist, I am here to assist the client through processing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with no judgement and be supportive to my clients while helping them meet their individualized goals.
Working with a therapist is nothing to be ashamed of. Sometimes we all need to work through the highs and lows in our lives and strive to reach our goals that we have for ourselves. As a therapist, I am here to assist the client through processing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with no judgement and be supportive to my clients while helping them meet their individualized goals.
(270) 580-1217 View (270) 580-1217
Photo of Dr. Nina K Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Dr. Nina K Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
My clients are often motivated to begin therapy as an investment in self. Whether you are curious about how your unprocessed past may be affecting your present, living with anxiety or depression, or are looking for skills to develop healthier relationships, we will work together to determine your therapeutic path. We will identify narratives that have shaped your reactions and worldview, deconstruct what no longer fits your values, and equip you with tools to thrive beyond survival.
My clients are often motivated to begin therapy as an investment in self. Whether you are curious about how your unprocessed past may be affecting your present, living with anxiety or depression, or are looking for skills to develop healthier relationships, we will work together to determine your therapeutic path. We will identify narratives that have shaped your reactions and worldview, deconstruct what no longer fits your values, and equip you with tools to thrive beyond survival.
(270) 479-6972 View (270) 479-6972
Photo of Joy Whitmore, Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Joy Whitmore
Counselor, MSSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104  (Online Only)
Whatever you are searching for; I am willing to be a part of your search team to help you locate your confidence, peace, happiness, and understanding. I have helped families work through years of hardships and unfortunate circumstances and find healthy ways to interact with one another and develop boundaries that are safe and meaningful.
Whatever you are searching for; I am willing to be a part of your search team to help you locate your confidence, peace, happiness, and understanding. I have helped families work through years of hardships and unfortunate circumstances and find healthy ways to interact with one another and develop boundaries that are safe and meaningful.
(270) 679-0478 View (270) 679-0478
Photo of Cassandra Hanna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Cassandra Hanna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Waitlist for new clients
I truly enjoy working with those in the perinatal period (pregnancy and postpartum). There is a need in our community for those during this time to be supported. That's why it was imperative for me to get specialized training through PSI. I like to approach therapy from a holistic sense, not just the surface level. Being an honest, straightforward person, I tend to gravitate towards a client-centered solution focused approach, but I am experienced in a variety of treatment modalities. I believe it is important to tailor therapy to where you are and what you need. We will work together to determine what is right for you.
I truly enjoy working with those in the perinatal period (pregnancy and postpartum). There is a need in our community for those during this time to be supported. That's why it was imperative for me to get specialized training through PSI. I like to approach therapy from a holistic sense, not just the surface level. Being an honest, straightforward person, I tend to gravitate towards a client-centered solution focused approach, but I am experienced in a variety of treatment modalities. I believe it is important to tailor therapy to where you are and what you need. We will work together to determine what is right for you.
(270) 398-9278 View (270) 398-9278
Photo of Bill DeSpain, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Bill DeSpain
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
“We are all born same, we are completely cute, innocent, sweet, and we need that reflection of ourselves as little human beings to live, …” – Anneke Lucas. Hello, I’m Bill, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It seems that life can sometimes take a bit of the cuteness, innocence, and sweetness away. It is important to remember that our need for belonging and attachment continues throughout life and is not outgrown. If anything, the need may grow to seemingly greater levels. When our needs are not met, the response may be one of experiencing emptiness in life and low self-esteem.
“We are all born same, we are completely cute, innocent, sweet, and we need that reflection of ourselves as little human beings to live, …” – Anneke Lucas. Hello, I’m Bill, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It seems that life can sometimes take a bit of the cuteness, innocence, and sweetness away. It is important to remember that our need for belonging and attachment continues throughout life and is not outgrown. If anything, the need may grow to seemingly greater levels. When our needs are not met, the response may be one of experiencing emptiness in life and low self-esteem.
(270) 278-1308 View (270) 278-1308
Photo of Rebecca Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Rebecca Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Rebecca. My personal mission is to provide you with compassionate, evidence-based therapy tailored to your individual needs.
Hi, I’m Rebecca. My personal mission is to provide you with compassionate, evidence-based therapy tailored to your individual needs.
(270) 716-4053 View (270) 716-4053
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Gish, Pastoral Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Dr. Elizabeth Gish
Pastoral Counselor, M Div, ThD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
This space is for the question-askers, seekers, dreamers, wounded, weary, and outcasts. This is the right space for you if your religious identity, faith experiences, or family background have been stressful, confusing, or harmful to you. This includes but is not limited to experiences with trauma, narcissism, dysfunctional relationships and families, religious teachings about sex and sexuality, or sexism. My clients include people who are still part of a faith community, as well as those who deconstructing, are not sure where they stand, have left their faith tradition, and those who are now atheists. Everyone is welcome here.
This space is for the question-askers, seekers, dreamers, wounded, weary, and outcasts. This is the right space for you if your religious identity, faith experiences, or family background have been stressful, confusing, or harmful to you. This includes but is not limited to experiences with trauma, narcissism, dysfunctional relationships and families, religious teachings about sex and sexuality, or sexism. My clients include people who are still part of a faith community, as well as those who deconstructing, are not sure where they stand, have left their faith tradition, and those who are now atheists. Everyone is welcome here.
(270) 561-7992 View (270) 561-7992
Photo of Kacey L. Jenkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Kacey L. Jenkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Life is full of changes and sometimes we need additional emotional support in times of transition. Personal issues can make it very difficult for us to seek help and contemplating seeing a therapist is a difficult decision for many people dealing with the circumstances life creates. Sometimes once we have made the decision to seek help we have a hard time creating the time for therapy and self-care. Teletherapy video sessions are now offered to support those interested in investing in self-care from the comfort of their own environment including new parents experiencing anxiety, depression, fatigue, etc.
Life is full of changes and sometimes we need additional emotional support in times of transition. Personal issues can make it very difficult for us to seek help and contemplating seeing a therapist is a difficult decision for many people dealing with the circumstances life creates. Sometimes once we have made the decision to seek help we have a hard time creating the time for therapy and self-care. Teletherapy video sessions are now offered to support those interested in investing in self-care from the comfort of their own environment including new parents experiencing anxiety, depression, fatigue, etc.
(615) 987-0992 View (615) 987-0992
Photo of Amy Cook, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Amy Cook
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MAE, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Not accepting new clients
I provide therapy to individuals and couples seeking assistance on overcoming the burden of concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship stressors, and life adjustments. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify their strengths and goals in order to help work towards achieving a better quality of life.
I provide therapy to individuals and couples seeking assistance on overcoming the burden of concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship stressors, and life adjustments. I enjoy collaborating with clients to identify their strengths and goals in order to help work towards achieving a better quality of life.
(270) 279-1381 View (270) 279-1381
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Light, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Sarah Elizabeth Light
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42101
With more than 18 years experience, I’m a practicing LCSW & the owner of Lighthouse Counseling, LLC. Here we specialize in diagnosing and treating the following Mental Health Disorders and related concerns: Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, Past/Present Trauma, PTSD, ASD, Crisis Intervention, Life Challenges/Adjustments, Co- Parenting/Custodial Issues, Grief/Loss, Behavior Challenges, Personality Disorders and Addiction Problems. Christian Faith-Based Services, treating Workplace Trauma for First Responders & other Professionals, and Couples/Marriage Counseling are my specialties! Our website is: www.lighthousecounselingllc.org
With more than 18 years experience, I’m a practicing LCSW & the owner of Lighthouse Counseling, LLC. Here we specialize in diagnosing and treating the following Mental Health Disorders and related concerns: Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, Past/Present Trauma, PTSD, ASD, Crisis Intervention, Life Challenges/Adjustments, Co- Parenting/Custodial Issues, Grief/Loss, Behavior Challenges, Personality Disorders and Addiction Problems. Christian Faith-Based Services, treating Workplace Trauma for First Responders & other Professionals, and Couples/Marriage Counseling are my specialties! Our website is: www.lighthousecounselingllc.org
(270) 257-6214 View (270) 257-6214
Photo of Dylan Camacho, Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Dylan Camacho
Counselor, MAE, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Hello, I'm Dylan as you can tell from the profile you just clicked on. I believe in what I do matters and I want to provide therapy and support to individuals, couples, and families in the healthiest way possible. An ideal client for me is someone who wants to make steps forward in their life and seeks to see improvement in their well-being. I will do my best to provide counseling to those regardless of if they are struggling with a life transition or have battled chronic mental illness for years. I wish to help those who are ready to seek it out.
Hello, I'm Dylan as you can tell from the profile you just clicked on. I believe in what I do matters and I want to provide therapy and support to individuals, couples, and families in the healthiest way possible. An ideal client for me is someone who wants to make steps forward in their life and seeks to see improvement in their well-being. I will do my best to provide counseling to those regardless of if they are struggling with a life transition or have battled chronic mental illness for years. I wish to help those who are ready to seek it out.
(270) 447-8425 View (270) 447-8425
Photo of Spenser Sawyers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Spenser Sawyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101  (Online Only)
I help LGBTQ+ folks who struggle with anxiety and self-esteem to improve relationships with themselves and others. Perhaps you struggle with confidence issues, overthinking, perfectionism, & lack deeper connections. You likely grew up in an unsupportive environment or town. You seek ways to support and better understand yourself. You're wanting to increase self-compassion and self-love as a queer person (living in the South ain't easy!). You're ready to work on patterns and pain that prevent you from connecting to others. Maybe you're feeling stuck and unsure how to come out, or need some support loving an LGBTQ person in your life.
I help LGBTQ+ folks who struggle with anxiety and self-esteem to improve relationships with themselves and others. Perhaps you struggle with confidence issues, overthinking, perfectionism, & lack deeper connections. You likely grew up in an unsupportive environment or town. You seek ways to support and better understand yourself. You're wanting to increase self-compassion and self-love as a queer person (living in the South ain't easy!). You're ready to work on patterns and pain that prevent you from connecting to others. Maybe you're feeling stuck and unsure how to come out, or need some support loving an LGBTQ person in your life.
(270) 278-1417 View (270) 278-1417
Photo of Alliance Counseling Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Alliance Counseling Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Here at Alliance Counseling, we recognize that reaching out for help is not easy, but we're glad you're taking the first step! We like to say "peace out" to the stigma associated with mental health care because the value of taking care of yourself mentally is just as high as the value of physical wellness. We are a team of therapists, targeted case managers and community support associates with a mission to provide you with hope, the tools you need to reach your goals and an overall satisfaction with your life. With our team of over 40 trained professionals, we can match you with the services and providers that best suit your needs.
Here at Alliance Counseling, we recognize that reaching out for help is not easy, but we're glad you're taking the first step! We like to say "peace out" to the stigma associated with mental health care because the value of taking care of yourself mentally is just as high as the value of physical wellness. We are a team of therapists, targeted case managers and community support associates with a mission to provide you with hope, the tools you need to reach your goals and an overall satisfaction with your life. With our team of over 40 trained professionals, we can match you with the services and providers that best suit your needs.
(270) 290-0968 View (270) 290-0968
Photo of Alyssa N Harrell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bowling Green, KY
Alyssa N Harrell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42101
We all experience challenges. Maybe you feel like waking up everyday is a battle, or you feel like you are walking through a never ending fight. Maybe you feel alone, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you are navigating life's path, you're walking through grief, you're fighting to feel an ounce of motivation, or struggling to feel any self worth at all. Therapy can help you feel less alone. It can help you understand your challenges and help you develop skills to not just live, but to also enjoy life. You can feel strength, peace, and confidence again.
We all experience challenges. Maybe you feel like waking up everyday is a battle, or you feel like you are walking through a never ending fight. Maybe you feel alone, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you are navigating life's path, you're walking through grief, you're fighting to feel an ounce of motivation, or struggling to feel any self worth at all. Therapy can help you feel less alone. It can help you understand your challenges and help you develop skills to not just live, but to also enjoy life. You can feel strength, peace, and confidence again.
(270) 341-3851 View (270) 341-3851
Photo of Braiden Abbott, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Bowling Green, KY
Braiden Abbott
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MAE, LPCA
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Starting therapy can feel weird, even intimidating. Maybe you're experiencing anxiety with day to day living, navigating through a new life transition, or working through past trauma. It can feel isolating and difficult especially if you've been going through it alone. As a therapist, it is my mission to provide an authentic and safe environment where each client feels empowered and comfortable to start their healing journey. In doing so, I use an integrative, holistic approach that is tailored to each client's specific needs.
Starting therapy can feel weird, even intimidating. Maybe you're experiencing anxiety with day to day living, navigating through a new life transition, or working through past trauma. It can feel isolating and difficult especially if you've been going through it alone. As a therapist, it is my mission to provide an authentic and safe environment where each client feels empowered and comfortable to start their healing journey. In doing so, I use an integrative, holistic approach that is tailored to each client's specific needs.
(270) 713-8137 View (270) 713-8137
Photo of Merseeha Demirovic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bowling Green, KY
Merseeha Demirovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I believe emotional wellness is a basic need, so it is my goal to provide a supportive environment to all people. Areas of specialty include mood, anxiety and depression, gender, behavior problems, self esteem, trauma recovery, etc. I have 8+ years of experience working in mental health settings with emphasis on problem solving, self sufficiency and improving your quality of life.
I believe emotional wellness is a basic need, so it is my goal to provide a supportive environment to all people. Areas of specialty include mood, anxiety and depression, gender, behavior problems, self esteem, trauma recovery, etc. I have 8+ years of experience working in mental health settings with emphasis on problem solving, self sufficiency and improving your quality of life.
(270) 854-0282 View (270) 854-0282
Photo of Katy Whitley, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Bowling Green, KY
Katy Whitley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
As long as there is breath in your lungs, it is never too late to claim the life you have always dreamed of. My desire is to help you do just that. Maybe you have considered therapy for a long time or maybe you're currently going through one of life's valleys and need some assistance getting out of the rut. Whatever the case may be, I'm excited to meet you and look forward to joining you on your healing journey.
As long as there is breath in your lungs, it is never too late to claim the life you have always dreamed of. My desire is to help you do just that. Maybe you have considered therapy for a long time or maybe you're currently going through one of life's valleys and need some assistance getting out of the rut. Whatever the case may be, I'm excited to meet you and look forward to joining you on your healing journey.
(270) 479-8064 View (270) 479-8064

See more therapy options for Bowling Green

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bowling Green, KY

100+

Average cost per session

$110

Therapists in Bowling Green, KY who prioritize treating:

86% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
68% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Bowling Green, KY see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bowling Green?

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.