Therapists in Sunnyvale, TX

Photo of Sharon Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sharon Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, my name is Sharon Abraham, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I strive to work alongside my clients to help them navigate a crisis and reach optimal solutions and growth in their mental health. I have primarily worked with adults in crisis situations involving their physical and mental health. I see clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic attacks, discord in interpersonal relationships, and loneliness.
Hello, my name is Sharon Abraham, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I strive to work alongside my clients to help them navigate a crisis and reach optimal solutions and growth in their mental health. I have primarily worked with adults in crisis situations involving their physical and mental health. I see clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic attacks, discord in interpersonal relationships, and loneliness.
(281) 626-8190 View (281) 626-8190
Photo of Anne Melnick, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Anne Melnick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
2 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to understand why you feel the way you do? Or do your emotions sometimes hold you back from living the life you want? With 24 years as a teacher, mentor, and administrator, I bring a compassionate and experienced perspective to counseling. My client-centered, action-focused approach helps you build self-awareness, find balance, and create meaningful change in a warm, supportive space. If you are ready to make a change, I am here to help. Reaching out is the only step you will make alone; the rest we will do together.
Are you ready to understand why you feel the way you do? Or do your emotions sometimes hold you back from living the life you want? With 24 years as a teacher, mentor, and administrator, I bring a compassionate and experienced perspective to counseling. My client-centered, action-focused approach helps you build self-awareness, find balance, and create meaningful change in a warm, supportive space. If you are ready to make a change, I am here to help. Reaching out is the only step you will make alone; the rest we will do together.
(469) 908-2889 View (469) 908-2889
Photo of Michelle Dee Coleman - Grace For Healing Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Grace For Healing Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
At Grace for Healing, we provide professional counseling for individuals, couples and families in Sunnyvale and Rockwall, TX. Contact us at (469) 602-9575 to start your healing journey today. Our therapists are not town locals, which allows us to offer discreet and confidential services to our clients. Choose Grace today! "There is grace for your journey!"
At Grace for Healing, we provide professional counseling for individuals, couples and families in Sunnyvale and Rockwall, TX. Contact us at (469) 602-9575 to start your healing journey today. Our therapists are not town locals, which allows us to offer discreet and confidential services to our clients. Choose Grace today! "There is grace for your journey!"
(214) 225-9057 View (214) 225-9057
Photo of Cassey Amburn, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Cassey Amburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I truly believe that everyone has the capacity to grow, change, and heal. I’m passionate about working with teens, individuals struggling with substance abuse, and underserved populations because I’ve seen firsthand how transformative the healing process can be.
I truly believe that everyone has the capacity to grow, change, and heal. I’m passionate about working with teens, individuals struggling with substance abuse, and underserved populations because I’ve seen firsthand how transformative the healing process can be.
(469) 727-6145 View (469) 727-6145
Photo of Melissa Michelle Stringer - Connect and Reboot, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Connect and Reboot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Are you tired of using so-called "healthy coping skills" to no avail? Or just don't understand why you can't seem to get unstuck? Welcome to the club! There's a reason you do what you do, think what you think, and feel what you feel. Let's take the time to understand why your behaviors make sense, given the situation, and what you know. You will gain clarity around the impact of your choices, and learn the necessary tools to persist in or shift behaviors based on your values**Please Note: I'm most easily reached by e-mail, as during business hours I'm often in session and unable to take calls. E-mail: melissa@connectandreboot.com***
Are you tired of using so-called "healthy coping skills" to no avail? Or just don't understand why you can't seem to get unstuck? Welcome to the club! There's a reason you do what you do, think what you think, and feel what you feel. Let's take the time to understand why your behaviors make sense, given the situation, and what you know. You will gain clarity around the impact of your choices, and learn the necessary tools to persist in or shift behaviors based on your values**Please Note: I'm most easily reached by e-mail, as during business hours I'm often in session and unable to take calls. E-mail: melissa@connectandreboot.com***
(469) 306-4431 View (469) 306-4431
Photo of Dr. Tyler Skidmore, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC-S
Dr. Tyler Skidmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
As a licensed professional counselor I strive to create a comfortable, relaxed and confidential environment. Seeking counseling for yourself or a loved one can often be scary and overwhelming. I work to make the initial process as easy as possible in order to focus on the therapeutic relationship and your personal goals. I view all clients as individuals and therefore work to facilitate a therapeutic model that best fits the individual, family, or marriage needs.
As a licensed professional counselor I strive to create a comfortable, relaxed and confidential environment. Seeking counseling for yourself or a loved one can often be scary and overwhelming. I work to make the initial process as easy as possible in order to focus on the therapeutic relationship and your personal goals. I view all clients as individuals and therefore work to facilitate a therapeutic model that best fits the individual, family, or marriage needs.
(469) 625-4326 View (469) 625-4326
Photo of Brandi Bailey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Brandi Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Hi, I am Brandi and I believe in the power of getting curious about our struggles and how connecting with others brings the change we want to see. It is my passion to see folks heal and grow. I am a LPC and earned my degree in counseling from DBU. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and a Certified Parent Coach through the Jai Institute for Parenting. I have substantial training and experience working with kiddos and their parents. I also enjoy working with adult individuals especially women and the challenges that are unique to us.
Hi, I am Brandi and I believe in the power of getting curious about our struggles and how connecting with others brings the change we want to see. It is my passion to see folks heal and grow. I am a LPC and earned my degree in counseling from DBU. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and a Certified Parent Coach through the Jai Institute for Parenting. I have substantial training and experience working with kiddos and their parents. I also enjoy working with adult individuals especially women and the challenges that are unique to us.
(469) 723-9903 View (469) 723-9903
Photo of Molly Shute, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Molly Shute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
I know that life can get overwhelming and we all seek different ways to feel better. Sometimes those choices are good and sometimes not so good. Trust me! I am not going to judge. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, feel overly dependent on someone/something, have a difficult relationship with food, or you feel overwhelmed and anxious with anything in your life, I'm here to help. You are not alone. I want to help encourage you along the way while helping you experience the growth needed for you to find the happiness you are searching for.
I know that life can get overwhelming and we all seek different ways to feel better. Sometimes those choices are good and sometimes not so good. Trust me! I am not going to judge. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, feel overly dependent on someone/something, have a difficult relationship with food, or you feel overwhelmed and anxious with anything in your life, I'm here to help. You are not alone. I want to help encourage you along the way while helping you experience the growth needed for you to find the happiness you are searching for.
(214) 740-4864 View (214) 740-4864
Photo of Chelsea Dickson - Chelsea Dickson, PMHNP @ Evolve Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Is your child struggling with intense emotions, attention issues, or persistent worry? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope—balancing impulsive outbursts and withdrawn behavior, all while trying to do what’s best for your child? At Evolve Psychiatry, our team partners with both children and parents to understand what’s driving your child’s distress and to create a plan that nurtures emotional growth, resilience, and success — both at home and in school.
Is your child struggling with intense emotions, attention issues, or persistent worry? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope—balancing impulsive outbursts and withdrawn behavior, all while trying to do what’s best for your child? At Evolve Psychiatry, our team partners with both children and parents to understand what’s driving your child’s distress and to create a plan that nurtures emotional growth, resilience, and success — both at home and in school.
(469) 402-9235 View (469) 402-9235
Photo of Kylee Fisher, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Kylee Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Not only are we individuals with our own thoughts, feelings and experiences, we are part of a more complex network of family, culture and community. That looks different for everyone! Learning how to navigate and nurture our personal development is crucial, and yet understanding ourselves within the greater context of our relationships remains equally important in setting one up to thrive and grow. I work with individuals, couples and families to identify patterns that are keeping them stuck and resource their personal strengths to foster and develop new ways to interact with themselves and others.
Not only are we individuals with our own thoughts, feelings and experiences, we are part of a more complex network of family, culture and community. That looks different for everyone! Learning how to navigate and nurture our personal development is crucial, and yet understanding ourselves within the greater context of our relationships remains equally important in setting one up to thrive and grow. I work with individuals, couples and families to identify patterns that are keeping them stuck and resource their personal strengths to foster and develop new ways to interact with themselves and others.
(469) 727-6562 View (469) 727-6562
Photo of Kelly Conaway - Kelly Conaway, LCSW - Evolve Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kelly Conaway, LCSW - Evolve Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(469) 780-7082 View (469) 780-7082
Photo of Rhonda Hoover - Rhonda Hoover, LPC-A @ Evolve Psychiatry, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MS, LPC-A, LCDC
Rhonda Hoover, LPC-A @ Evolve Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MS, LPC-A, LCDC
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(469) 903-5782 View (469) 903-5782
Photo of Abigail Lopez - Abigail Lopez, LPC @ Evolve Psychiatry, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Abigail Lopez, LPC @ Evolve Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(469) 457-3919 View (469) 457-3919
Photo of Courtney Nelson - Oakhouse Counseling PLLC, PhD
Oakhouse Counseling PLLC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Oakhouse Counseling meets people in their scariest, most difficult moments. You can get better. There is hope in your darkness - we will find it together. We believe that adversity and pain can push us to grow new roots that stabilize us and make us so much stronger. As men and women in the middle of great struggles, we need to remember the longer view of our lives. We will be 'great oaks' and be a safe shelter for others we care about.
Oakhouse Counseling meets people in their scariest, most difficult moments. You can get better. There is hope in your darkness - we will find it together. We believe that adversity and pain can push us to grow new roots that stabilize us and make us so much stronger. As men and women in the middle of great struggles, we need to remember the longer view of our lives. We will be 'great oaks' and be a safe shelter for others we care about.
(214) 919-3732 View (214) 919-3732
Photo of Jessica Derx, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Derx
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialization in providing therapy and counseling services to children, teens and adults. I strongly believe that therapy can make a positive impact by giving you the tools you need to have a healthy and successful life. It is my hope that together we can meet your therapy goals. Email is the best way to reach me.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialization in providing therapy and counseling services to children, teens and adults. I strongly believe that therapy can make a positive impact by giving you the tools you need to have a healthy and successful life. It is my hope that together we can meet your therapy goals. Email is the best way to reach me.
(214) 307-8733 View (214) 307-8733
Photo of Shann Davis, MA, CPC-C
Shann Davis
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Life can be complicated...marriage, children, extended families, work, and school. Then life happens within these units and it can really get messy...and stressful! But you don't have to figure it out alone. With a masters degree in Psychology and an emphasis in Life Coaching, I can help you navigate these often, overwhelming seasons of life. (A former secondary educator, I also work with teenagers.)
Life can be complicated...marriage, children, extended families, work, and school. Then life happens within these units and it can really get messy...and stressful! But you don't have to figure it out alone. With a masters degree in Psychology and an emphasis in Life Coaching, I can help you navigate these often, overwhelming seasons of life. (A former secondary educator, I also work with teenagers.)
(214) 239-3240 View (214) 239-3240
Photo of Amy D Cole - Amy Cole, M.S., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Amy Cole, M.S., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
I like to work with individuals from all walks of life. If you are seeking help for sadness, anxiety, depression and want someone to talk with, please call me. I will help you with any changes you wish to make in your life. I have experience in working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and Relationship issues. I use evidence-based treatment with, adolescents, and adults. I received my Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and specific training in the areas I practice in.
I like to work with individuals from all walks of life. If you are seeking help for sadness, anxiety, depression and want someone to talk with, please call me. I will help you with any changes you wish to make in your life. I have experience in working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and Relationship issues. I use evidence-based treatment with, adolescents, and adults. I received my Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and specific training in the areas I practice in.
(469) 747-2332 View (469) 747-2332
Photo of Mary Ali Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Mary Ali Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ali is a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington & Texas State University, and works with clients to address a variety of issues including but not limited to trauma and PTSD, secondary trauma in helping professionals, grief, depression, anxiety, and women's issues. Ali has an extensive background in providing crisis intervention and mental health services to youth, adults, and helping professionals. She approaches the therapeutic relationship through a trauma focused lens, often utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution Focused Theory, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Ali is a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington & Texas State University, and works with clients to address a variety of issues including but not limited to trauma and PTSD, secondary trauma in helping professionals, grief, depression, anxiety, and women's issues. Ali has an extensive background in providing crisis intervention and mental health services to youth, adults, and helping professionals. She approaches the therapeutic relationship through a trauma focused lens, often utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution Focused Theory, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
(469) 960-5604 View (469) 960-5604
Photo of Vidhya Nair, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vidhya Nair
Pre-Licensed Professional
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m not a “fix-it” expert, but I am someone who deeply values being human, real, and present with the people I work with. I know life can feel heavy — especially when you’re juggling different parts of yourself, navigating family expectations, or feeling pressure to have everything figured out. My hope is to offer a space where you can slow down, take a breath, and feel genuinely seen and heard, without judgment. My approach to counseling is collaborative and rooted in empathy, authenticity, and respect for each person’s lived experience.
I’m not a “fix-it” expert, but I am someone who deeply values being human, real, and present with the people I work with. I know life can feel heavy — especially when you’re juggling different parts of yourself, navigating family expectations, or feeling pressure to have everything figured out. My hope is to offer a space where you can slow down, take a breath, and feel genuinely seen and heard, without judgment. My approach to counseling is collaborative and rooted in empathy, authenticity, and respect for each person’s lived experience.
(972) 737-9102 View (972) 737-9102
Photo of Melanie Acker - Clarion Therapy & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Clarion Therapy & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Clarion Therapy & Wellness, where compassionate support meets a boutique-style experience. Our practice is dedicated to providing expert counseling services in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our boutique-style practice combines professional expertise with a cozy ambiance, ensuring that every client feels welcomed and valued. From the moment you step into our space, you'll experience a tranquil atmosphere designed to facilitate growth and self-discovery.
Welcome to Clarion Therapy & Wellness, where compassionate support meets a boutique-style experience. Our practice is dedicated to providing expert counseling services in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our boutique-style practice combines professional expertise with a cozy ambiance, ensuring that every client feels welcomed and valued. From the moment you step into our space, you'll experience a tranquil atmosphere designed to facilitate growth and self-discovery.
(469) 871-5713 View (469) 871-5713

See more therapy options for Sunnyvale

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Sunnyvale, TX

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Sunnyvale, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Relationship Issues
95% Anxiety
90% Grief
90% Self Esteem
86% Depression
76% Women's Issues
76% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Sunnyvale, TX see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

95% Female
5% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Sunnyvale?

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.