Therapists in Newton, MA

Photo of light and lotus LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
light and lotus LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Are you a woman in your twenties or thirties and struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, stress, depression or just feeling like adult life isn't what you thought it would be? I work with women to help you feel like yourself again and show you that everything you need is within you. Through my 18 years as a therapist, I have come to believe that every challenge we face in our life is an opportunity for healing. Whether you are wanting a safe space to reflect on day to day challenges (dating, jobs, adjusting to/leaving college) or are looking to learn coping skills for managing overwhelming feelings of stress I am here to help.
Are you a woman in your twenties or thirties and struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, stress, depression or just feeling like adult life isn't what you thought it would be? I work with women to help you feel like yourself again and show you that everything you need is within you. Through my 18 years as a therapist, I have come to believe that every challenge we face in our life is an opportunity for healing. Whether you are wanting a safe space to reflect on day to day challenges (dating, jobs, adjusting to/leaving college) or are looking to learn coping skills for managing overwhelming feelings of stress I am here to help.
(617) 812-8641 View (617) 812-8641
Photo of Patricia Cucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Patricia Cucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
I specialize in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) and anxiety disorders in adults and adolescents. My clinical work focuses on helping my clients develop behavioral strategies, learn stress-management skills, deal effectively with difficult emotions and strengthen their relationships. Therapy can help you feel more self-confident, change patterns of negative thinking and feel less stressed. My therapeutic style is active, warm and engaged as I help clients change the habits that are getting in their way.
I specialize in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) and anxiety disorders in adults and adolescents. My clinical work focuses on helping my clients develop behavioral strategies, learn stress-management skills, deal effectively with difficult emotions and strengthen their relationships. Therapy can help you feel more self-confident, change patterns of negative thinking and feel less stressed. My therapeutic style is active, warm and engaged as I help clients change the habits that are getting in their way.
(617) 274-8401 View (617) 274-8401
Photo of Jennifer Aballo in Newton, MA
Jennifer Aballo
LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02466
Not accepting new clients
As a licensed mental health counselor with a background in Art Therapy, I specialize in helping children, teens, young adults, and families in navigating a range of life experiences. I build a therapeutic relationship based on openness, trust, and safety to support my clients' emotional experiences. Collaboratively, we will work towards problem solving and fortifying relationships with others. I support my clients in building upon their innate resiliency and develop skills that they can utilize throughout their lives.
As a licensed mental health counselor with a background in Art Therapy, I specialize in helping children, teens, young adults, and families in navigating a range of life experiences. I build a therapeutic relationship based on openness, trust, and safety to support my clients' emotional experiences. Collaboratively, we will work towards problem solving and fortifying relationships with others. I support my clients in building upon their innate resiliency and develop skills that they can utilize throughout their lives.
(617) 958-8573 View (617) 958-8573
Photo of Sarai Logue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Sarai Logue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
(857) 598-5399 View (857) 598-5399
Photo of Dr. Tina Chou, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Dr. Tina Chou
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02466  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are having a difficult time in your life right now, I would love to work with you to understand why and a plan to move forward. I am a warm and collaborative psychologist who completed a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Harvard University and have worked with people struggling with depression and anxiety for 10+ years. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness-based approaches for depression and anxiety disorders. I regularly use techniques from these different approaches based on what could be helpful for you.
If you are having a difficult time in your life right now, I would love to work with you to understand why and a plan to move forward. I am a warm and collaborative psychologist who completed a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Harvard University and have worked with people struggling with depression and anxiety for 10+ years. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness-based approaches for depression and anxiety disorders. I regularly use techniques from these different approaches based on what could be helpful for you.
(617) 433-5376 View (617) 433-5376
Photo of Aliya Kleiner, Counselor in Newton, MA
Aliya Kleiner
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
Everyone needs support at times of transition and stress. These situations may be varied, from relationship difficulties, to illness, to the death of someone important. Or you might be in a place of wanting to have a deeper, more connected understanding of yourself. Whatever brings you to therapy, I am here to gently support you while also playing an engaged role in our time together.
Everyone needs support at times of transition and stress. These situations may be varied, from relationship difficulties, to illness, to the death of someone important. Or you might be in a place of wanting to have a deeper, more connected understanding of yourself. Whatever brings you to therapy, I am here to gently support you while also playing an engaged role in our time together.
(857) 226-4532 View (857) 226-4532
Photo of Haroon Malik, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Haroon Malik
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
As a licensed clinical neuropsychologist, my passion is to provide comprehensive, patient-specific neuropsychological services to clinically and culturally diverse adult and older adult populations. I utilize a biopsychosocial and systems-based approach in understanding each patient’s unique brain-behavior “make-up,” as doing so provides the most holistic picture of each individual.
As a licensed clinical neuropsychologist, my passion is to provide comprehensive, patient-specific neuropsychological services to clinically and culturally diverse adult and older adult populations. I utilize a biopsychosocial and systems-based approach in understanding each patient’s unique brain-behavior “make-up,” as doing so provides the most holistic picture of each individual.
(617) 315-6938 View (617) 315-6938
Photo of Niki LaCamera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Niki LaCamera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I work from a compassionate, relational approach with clients where trust and safety allow for awareness and growth. I enjoy connecting with people and will listen to you with compassion, empathy, curiosity and respect. Perhaps you would like a space to process your feelings, understand unhealthy thinking or behavior patterns, build self-awareness or simply need a place to talk. I view therapy as a collaboration and we will work together to prioritize what you want to work on, your goals and what approach might be best for you.
I work from a compassionate, relational approach with clients where trust and safety allow for awareness and growth. I enjoy connecting with people and will listen to you with compassion, empathy, curiosity and respect. Perhaps you would like a space to process your feelings, understand unhealthy thinking or behavior patterns, build self-awareness or simply need a place to talk. I view therapy as a collaboration and we will work together to prioritize what you want to work on, your goals and what approach might be best for you.
(857) 371-4013 View (857) 371-4013
Photo of Linda Marks in Newton, MA
Linda Marks
MSM
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460  (Online Only)
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
(857) 239-0063 View (857) 239-0063
Photo of Beck Sloman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Beck Sloman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460
I specialize in supporting individuals eager for personal growth, particularly those navigating trauma, identity, and emotional challenges. Though I work with all ages, my practice is a haven for children, families, and parents, offering a compassionate space for healing and self-discovery.
I specialize in supporting individuals eager for personal growth, particularly those navigating trauma, identity, and emotional challenges. Though I work with all ages, my practice is a haven for children, families, and parents, offering a compassionate space for healing and self-discovery.
(617) 271-2910 View (617) 271-2910
Photo of Northeast Health Services - Newton, Counselor in Newton, MA
Northeast Health Services - Newton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
Northeast Health Services is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Massachusetts and the local Newton area. At our Newton clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, group therapy, child & adolescent therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
Northeast Health Services is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Massachusetts and the local Newton area. At our Newton clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, group therapy, child & adolescent therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
(617) 553-6641 View (617) 553-6641
Photo of Jotham Busfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Jotham Busfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02460
I focus on working with young male clients (ages 9-25), using a blend of coaching and therapy, focusing on emotional intelligence, leadership skills, confidence, healthy relationships, academic achievement, and athletic performance. The problems I most often see clients experiencing are low self-esteem/confidence, anger management, high stress levels, anxiety, depression (including bipolar), and video game addiction.
I focus on working with young male clients (ages 9-25), using a blend of coaching and therapy, focusing on emotional intelligence, leadership skills, confidence, healthy relationships, academic achievement, and athletic performance. The problems I most often see clients experiencing are low self-esteem/confidence, anger management, high stress levels, anxiety, depression (including bipolar), and video game addiction.
(508) 252-0021 x1 View (508) 252-0021 x1
Photo of Amanda Steverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Amanda Steverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
Amanda is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social worker with 10 years of field experience, receiving her masters in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. Amanda has experience working in the inpatient hospital setting, as well as outpatient individual therapy and group treatment settings. Amanda utilizes different modalities and techniques in therapy, tailoring each session to that particular person. She believes there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to therapy, and that focusing on a person as a whole with all of the nuances life has to offer is essential to help someone move through their personal struggles.
Amanda is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social worker with 10 years of field experience, receiving her masters in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. Amanda has experience working in the inpatient hospital setting, as well as outpatient individual therapy and group treatment settings. Amanda utilizes different modalities and techniques in therapy, tailoring each session to that particular person. She believes there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to therapy, and that focusing on a person as a whole with all of the nuances life has to offer is essential to help someone move through their personal struggles.
(617) 671-0633 View (617) 671-0633
Photo of Revathi Tripuraneni, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newton, MA
Revathi Tripuraneni
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
Revathi completed her master’s in counseling psychology at Northeastern University with a concentration in children and adolescents’ mental health. She has experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and older adults living with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, family conflict, substance use issues, ADHD, and autism.
Revathi completed her master’s in counseling psychology at Northeastern University with a concentration in children and adolescents’ mental health. She has experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and older adults living with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, family conflict, substance use issues, ADHD, and autism.
(617) 683-1908 View (617) 683-1908
Photo of Katya Kalogeropoulos, Counselor in Newton, MA
Katya Kalogeropoulos
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
In her role as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Katya helps individuals of all ages achieve their goals in functional and productive ways. Her deep understanding of mental health is demonstrated by her consistent empathy coupled with a no-nonsense approach to identifying obstacles and dealing with interfering behaviors. Katya is passionate about empowering her clients using psychoeducation and helping them develop a powerful toolbox of coping skills that foster self-reliance as they move through life’s challenges. Katya earned her Master’s degree from Boston University.
In her role as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Katya helps individuals of all ages achieve their goals in functional and productive ways. Her deep understanding of mental health is demonstrated by her consistent empathy coupled with a no-nonsense approach to identifying obstacles and dealing with interfering behaviors. Katya is passionate about empowering her clients using psychoeducation and helping them develop a powerful toolbox of coping skills that foster self-reliance as they move through life’s challenges. Katya earned her Master’s degree from Boston University.
(857) 575-3122 View (857) 575-3122
Photo of Roberta Cole Fortgang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Roberta Cole Fortgang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02461
Not accepting new clients
I see adults of all ages, seeking help in dealing with issues such as depression and difficulties in relationships. My style is active, interactive, nonjudgmental, warm, and empathetic, with a sense of humor. Mood and relational problems are sometimes related to ways that people have reacted and adapted to past traumatic experiences, which may also become a focus of therapy.
I see adults of all ages, seeking help in dealing with issues such as depression and difficulties in relationships. My style is active, interactive, nonjudgmental, warm, and empathetic, with a sense of humor. Mood and relational problems are sometimes related to ways that people have reacted and adapted to past traumatic experiences, which may also become a focus of therapy.
(617) 964-6822 x3 View (617) 964-6822 x3
Photo of Sam Langstein - BaMidbar Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Sam Langstein - BaMidbar Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I believe that we are all in a constant process of transformation and change. Sometimes, this process feels slow and almost unnoticeable. But sometimes this process of change can feel sudden, intense, or overwhelming. Wherever my clients are in their process of transformation, my goal is to steward them safely towards the changes they most want to have in their lives. These might be changes in thought patterns and deeply-held beliefs, or changes to the tangible routine of their daily life, or changes in the direction of their life's path.
I believe that we are all in a constant process of transformation and change. Sometimes, this process feels slow and almost unnoticeable. But sometimes this process of change can feel sudden, intense, or overwhelming. Wherever my clients are in their process of transformation, my goal is to steward them safely towards the changes they most want to have in their lives. These might be changes in thought patterns and deeply-held beliefs, or changes to the tangible routine of their daily life, or changes in the direction of their life's path.
(781) 556-6718 View (781) 556-6718
Photo of Lisa Newfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Lisa Newfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
Not accepting new clients
As a psychotherapist, I listen carefully and work collaboratively with each client in forming a safe and accepting relationship. This relationship provides the basis for exploration, problem solving, healing and growth. I have an interactive style which incorporates warmth, humor, authenticity and direct feedback as I help my clients work through areas in which they feel stuck, unhappy or overwhelmed. These areas may include marital and other relationship difficulties, anxiety around life transitions, concerns about parenting or caring for aging parents, coping with illness, and dealing with breakups along with many others.
As a psychotherapist, I listen carefully and work collaboratively with each client in forming a safe and accepting relationship. This relationship provides the basis for exploration, problem solving, healing and growth. I have an interactive style which incorporates warmth, humor, authenticity and direct feedback as I help my clients work through areas in which they feel stuck, unhappy or overwhelmed. These areas may include marital and other relationship difficulties, anxiety around life transitions, concerns about parenting or caring for aging parents, coping with illness, and dealing with breakups along with many others.
(339) 217-5788 View (339) 217-5788
Photo of Nik Zanetti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Nik Zanetti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MTS, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02467  (Online Only)
My ideal client is a male of any age interested in changing patterns keeping him stuck in his life, someone ready to do the tough work of honest self-assessment as preparation for meaningful change. My approach is strengths-based and solutions-focused with a goal of mobilizing clients to imagine and then pursue positive and exciting change. I have extensive experience working with gifted people and elite performers across different industries, both as a teacher and a clinician. I also work well with executives focused on career building, developing relationships, and managing work-life balance.
My ideal client is a male of any age interested in changing patterns keeping him stuck in his life, someone ready to do the tough work of honest self-assessment as preparation for meaningful change. My approach is strengths-based and solutions-focused with a goal of mobilizing clients to imagine and then pursue positive and exciting change. I have extensive experience working with gifted people and elite performers across different industries, both as a teacher and a clinician. I also work well with executives focused on career building, developing relationships, and managing work-life balance.
(617) 958-2253 View (617) 958-2253
Photo of Dana Meshil, Counselor in Newton, MA
Dana Meshil
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02466
I believe that healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and I aim to create a safe and supportive space that nurtures self-growth. As a dance/ movement therapist I prioritize a compassionate and holistic approach that utilizes the mind/ body connection to empower lasting change. I incorporate elements of creative expression, mindfulness, body-awareness, and education regarding symptomatology, along with traditional talk therapy to provide a client- centered approach focused on each individual's needs.
I believe that healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and I aim to create a safe and supportive space that nurtures self-growth. As a dance/ movement therapist I prioritize a compassionate and holistic approach that utilizes the mind/ body connection to empower lasting change. I incorporate elements of creative expression, mindfulness, body-awareness, and education regarding symptomatology, along with traditional talk therapy to provide a client- centered approach focused on each individual's needs.
(617) 360-8784 View (617) 360-8784

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newton, MA

700+

Average cost per session

$184

Therapists in Newton, MA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
62% Stress
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% BlueCross and BlueShield
42% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
41% Optum

How Therapists in Newton, MA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newton?

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.