Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA

Photo of Steve Lehrman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Steve Lehrman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
It's a challenge to be in this world. You want to be considerate and kind; you also want to fulfill your potential. Were you were raised with a lot of "shoulds"? Were you told to control or ignore your feelings? Are there issues with anger- yours or anger from loved ones? Anger can lead to feelings of shame. But finding the feelings beneath the anger, you can accept and love yourself. And that can change your life. Here's an old, fun riddle about therapy: "How many therapists does it take to change a light bulb?" "One- but the lightbulb has to want to change." My ideal client may not know how to, but they want to change.
It's a challenge to be in this world. You want to be considerate and kind; you also want to fulfill your potential. Were you were raised with a lot of "shoulds"? Were you told to control or ignore your feelings? Are there issues with anger- yours or anger from loved ones? Anger can lead to feelings of shame. But finding the feelings beneath the anger, you can accept and love yourself. And that can change your life. Here's an old, fun riddle about therapy: "How many therapists does it take to change a light bulb?" "One- but the lightbulb has to want to change." My ideal client may not know how to, but they want to change.
(213) 316-6325 View (213) 316-6325
Photo of Tamara Kline, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Tamara Kline
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Therapy can be a rich and powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals and couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety and depression; strengthen friendships and relationships at work and at home; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict; modify negative thinking and self-destructive behaviors; build self-esteem; enhance intimacy and sexual well-being; foster self-discovery; and help improve one’s overall quality of life experiences.
Therapy can be a rich and powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals and couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety and depression; strengthen friendships and relationships at work and at home; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict; modify negative thinking and self-destructive behaviors; build self-esteem; enhance intimacy and sexual well-being; foster self-discovery; and help improve one’s overall quality of life experiences.
(310) 226-7000 View (310) 226-7000
Photo of Dr. Laura Tejada, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Laura Tejada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
If you are doing your absolute best to cope with what is in front of you but still feel like you are coming up short for yourself and/or your loved ones, contact me and let's talk! My office is a place where it's okay to not be okay, and crazy as it may sound, I truly believe you are doing better than you think. Diverse individuals and non-traditional couples and families are welcome in my office. I have a soft spot for made and chosen families, such as grandparents raising grandparents, LGBTQIA+ families, and kinship care or foster/adoptive families, and couples who are struggling to balance family and partnered relationship.
If you are doing your absolute best to cope with what is in front of you but still feel like you are coming up short for yourself and/or your loved ones, contact me and let's talk! My office is a place where it's okay to not be okay, and crazy as it may sound, I truly believe you are doing better than you think. Diverse individuals and non-traditional couples and families are welcome in my office. I have a soft spot for made and chosen families, such as grandparents raising grandparents, LGBTQIA+ families, and kinship care or foster/adoptive families, and couples who are struggling to balance family and partnered relationship.
(872) 231-3693 View (872) 231-3693
Photo of Joan L Helfenstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Joan L Helfenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
As a psychotherapist with 30 years of experience I have treated individuals like yourself. I see psychotherapy as a collaborative and active relationship between you and me. We will explore your feelings and beliefs in a safe and trusting environment.
As a psychotherapist with 30 years of experience I have treated individuals like yourself. I see psychotherapy as a collaborative and active relationship between you and me. We will explore your feelings and beliefs in a safe and trusting environment.
(310) 895-9787 View (310) 895-9787
Photo of Lee Konecke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Lee Konecke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
ZEN PSYCHOTHERAPY . PERFORMANCE COACHING . MEDITATION . BREATHWORK I primarily work with clients in high-profile and high stress arenas: Artists, Athletes, Executives, Creatives, Entrepreneurs. My clients want to cultivate the mindset and behaviors that contribute growth, healing, love, and creativity, and performance. They are open to the principle that forms of fear and psychological clutter are often the pathways to the above mentioned.
ZEN PSYCHOTHERAPY . PERFORMANCE COACHING . MEDITATION . BREATHWORK I primarily work with clients in high-profile and high stress arenas: Artists, Athletes, Executives, Creatives, Entrepreneurs. My clients want to cultivate the mindset and behaviors that contribute growth, healing, love, and creativity, and performance. They are open to the principle that forms of fear and psychological clutter are often the pathways to the above mentioned.
(323) 795-2409 View (323) 795-2409
Photo of Mason A Sommers, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Mason A Sommers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
For the past 42 years, I have worked with adult individuals and couples in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, trauma and intimacy. The focus of my work is attachment-based using a combination of dynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness techniques. Currently virtual only.
For the past 42 years, I have worked with adult individuals and couples in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, trauma and intimacy. The focus of my work is attachment-based using a combination of dynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness techniques. Currently virtual only.
(310) 776-6883 View (310) 776-6883
Photo of Leila Glass, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Leila Glass
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I am a UCLA-trained, licensed pediatric clinical neuropsychologist specializing in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation of children, teens, and adults. I use evidence-based assessment to best inform differential diagnosis and recommendations tailored to the patient. I evaluate and diagnose a range of neurocognitive disorders, including clinical presentations such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disorders, anxiety, depression, and other developmental disabilities. I utilize a holistic framework when considering each client in order to create a feasible and effective plan to best serve their needs.
I am a UCLA-trained, licensed pediatric clinical neuropsychologist specializing in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation of children, teens, and adults. I use evidence-based assessment to best inform differential diagnosis and recommendations tailored to the patient. I evaluate and diagnose a range of neurocognitive disorders, including clinical presentations such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disorders, anxiety, depression, and other developmental disabilities. I utilize a holistic framework when considering each client in order to create a feasible and effective plan to best serve their needs.
(310) 807-6352 View (310) 807-6352
Photo of Sanaz Saeidian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Sanaz Saeidian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that each therapeutic journey is unique and that it takes courage to take steps towards gaining insight & clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I tailor my approach based on your personal needs, values and preferences. I use a compassionate & trauma-informed approach to create a safe & supportive environment for you to develop inner strength & make meaningful changes in your life. We’ll work together to empower you with the tools you need to gain greater awareness into your past & help re-create your unique life story.
I understand that each therapeutic journey is unique and that it takes courage to take steps towards gaining insight & clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I tailor my approach based on your personal needs, values and preferences. I use a compassionate & trauma-informed approach to create a safe & supportive environment for you to develop inner strength & make meaningful changes in your life. We’ll work together to empower you with the tools you need to gain greater awareness into your past & help re-create your unique life story.
(310) 861-2033 View (310) 861-2033
Photo of Linda Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Linda Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, struggling with a relationship, grief or life transition? My practice is devoted to providing you with a safe and supportive therapeutic space where you will be heard, gain insight, and thus, have the opportunity to heal and grow. I believe that human beings are resilient, and with some help and insight, are able to become better equipped to act more consciously in the moment, thereby making better choices that lead to better outcomes, less stress and a more authentic, balanced, joyful and fulfilling life that you deserve.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, struggling with a relationship, grief or life transition? My practice is devoted to providing you with a safe and supportive therapeutic space where you will be heard, gain insight, and thus, have the opportunity to heal and grow. I believe that human beings are resilient, and with some help and insight, are able to become better equipped to act more consciously in the moment, thereby making better choices that lead to better outcomes, less stress and a more authentic, balanced, joyful and fulfilling life that you deserve.
(424) 351-9205 View (424) 351-9205
Photo of Matthew Simino, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Matthew Simino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
I believe that all people want to be the best version of themselves, and my goal is to help them achieve that. With compassion and empathy, I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to empower my clients, enabling them to embrace their full potential and bring out the best version of themselves. With a supportive and nonjudgmental approach, I am committed to guiding you through self-discovery, personal growth, and positive change.
I believe that all people want to be the best version of themselves, and my goal is to help them achieve that. With compassion and empathy, I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to empower my clients, enabling them to embrace their full potential and bring out the best version of themselves. With a supportive and nonjudgmental approach, I am committed to guiding you through self-discovery, personal growth, and positive change.
(424) 699-2715 View (424) 699-2715
Photo of Dylan Amsalam, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Dylan Amsalam
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Welcome to a safe space where healing and growth intertwine. Are you wrestling with the challenges of anxiety or depression? Are you feeling stuck in negative relational patterns, being forced to navigate through these challenges alone? With a profound passion for supporting adolescents and young adults, I specialize in addressing a range of mental health concerns. Rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach, I acknowledge the uniqueness of each client in treatment planning.
Welcome to a safe space where healing and growth intertwine. Are you wrestling with the challenges of anxiety or depression? Are you feeling stuck in negative relational patterns, being forced to navigate through these challenges alone? With a profound passion for supporting adolescents and young adults, I specialize in addressing a range of mental health concerns. Rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach, I acknowledge the uniqueness of each client in treatment planning.
(323) 641-4403 View (323) 641-4403
Photo of Karen Wulfson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Karen Wulfson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Are people you respect and care about urging you to get help with your anger? Maybe you think you "should" be able to cope, yet you find yourself feeling angry and unheard? For 30+ years, I've been helping individuals, professionals, and families communicate more effectively, to reduce the anger, stress, and conflict life hands all of us at times. When you're feeling frustrated, when you don't know how to get your needs met, when communication hits a dead end, you may feel you have no other options than to act out those angry feelings.
Are people you respect and care about urging you to get help with your anger? Maybe you think you "should" be able to cope, yet you find yourself feeling angry and unheard? For 30+ years, I've been helping individuals, professionals, and families communicate more effectively, to reduce the anger, stress, and conflict life hands all of us at times. When you're feeling frustrated, when you don't know how to get your needs met, when communication hits a dead end, you may feel you have no other options than to act out those angry feelings.
(310) 475-1759 View (310) 475-1759
Photo of Elaine Verchick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Elaine Verchick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Elaine Verchick, MFT ( Marriage & Family Therapist), is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in Beverly Hills. She specializes in mood disorders, specifically depression. In addition, she addresses relationship and self esteem issues, parenting teenagers, adolescents and eating disorders. How we experience things today is filtered through all our early verbal and non-verbal communication. Elaine addresses the repetitive patterns of behavior and communication that interfere in all relationships.
Elaine Verchick, MFT ( Marriage & Family Therapist), is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in Beverly Hills. She specializes in mood disorders, specifically depression. In addition, she addresses relationship and self esteem issues, parenting teenagers, adolescents and eating disorders. How we experience things today is filtered through all our early verbal and non-verbal communication. Elaine addresses the repetitive patterns of behavior and communication that interfere in all relationships.
(310) 341-7613 View (310) 341-7613
Photo of Niloufar Hoveyda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Niloufar Hoveyda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Most of us come to a point in our lives where we are either misunderstood or need to regain our balance and inner strength. Artemis Art & Therapy provides a safe and nurturing environment to promote and support emotional and mental well-being for teens and adults. Join us to regain balance and control.
Most of us come to a point in our lives where we are either misunderstood or need to regain our balance and inner strength. Artemis Art & Therapy provides a safe and nurturing environment to promote and support emotional and mental well-being for teens and adults. Join us to regain balance and control.
(408) 790-0546 View (408) 790-0546
Photo of Trina Chan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Trina Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I believe strongly in creating a safe, open and non-judgmental environment in order for individuals to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to work through difficult and complex issues. I am a therapist bilingual in English and Mandarin, and I have experience working with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, life transitions, amongst others. I work mainly with adults and adolescents.
I believe strongly in creating a safe, open and non-judgmental environment in order for individuals to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to work through difficult and complex issues. I am a therapist bilingual in English and Mandarin, and I have experience working with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, life transitions, amongst others. I work mainly with adults and adolescents.
(323) 924-3351 View (323) 924-3351
Photo of Valarie Gardner Emdr Trained, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Valarie Gardner Emdr Trained
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
I offer online therapy to both individuals and couples. Clients often come to me because they feel stuck in some way and are tired of spinning their wheels. I provide short-term, effective and transformative therapy as well as the skills you need to get back on track to living the more secure, loving, and fulfilling life you want.
I offer online therapy to both individuals and couples. Clients often come to me because they feel stuck in some way and are tired of spinning their wheels. I provide short-term, effective and transformative therapy as well as the skills you need to get back on track to living the more secure, loving, and fulfilling life you want.
(310) 961-9076 View (310) 961-9076
Photo of Georgette Vojdani, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Georgette Vojdani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Traumatic events causes one to develop negative beliefs about oneself or the world. These experiences become fixed in the body-mind in form of negative emotions causing anger, depression, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, panic, anxiety, phobias, shame, low self-esteem which can create difficulties with your relationships at home and at work. I use EMDR to heal the deep wounds of traumatic childhood events which are the source that one may believe that he/she is not a good enough person, not loveable, does not deserve to be loved or trusted. Negative self beliefs and negative emotions effects our body and mind causing physical and emotional distress.
Traumatic events causes one to develop negative beliefs about oneself or the world. These experiences become fixed in the body-mind in form of negative emotions causing anger, depression, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, panic, anxiety, phobias, shame, low self-esteem which can create difficulties with your relationships at home and at work. I use EMDR to heal the deep wounds of traumatic childhood events which are the source that one may believe that he/she is not a good enough person, not loveable, does not deserve to be loved or trusted. Negative self beliefs and negative emotions effects our body and mind causing physical and emotional distress.
(424) 236-6210 View (424) 236-6210
Photo of Rebecca Ishida, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Rebecca Ishida
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I have been in practice for over 20 years and have worked with a variety of issues. Life is hard and we want our lives and relationships to be healthy and good. Sometimes we lose sight of what is important in life and become complacent, depressed, lost. I am a direct, solution-focused therapist who can help you get back on track. People who see me have a variety of concerns: gaining self-awareness, anxiety/depression, relationship concerns and more. I think therapy can be very powerful in discovering our true selves and what we want out of life.
I have been in practice for over 20 years and have worked with a variety of issues. Life is hard and we want our lives and relationships to be healthy and good. Sometimes we lose sight of what is important in life and become complacent, depressed, lost. I am a direct, solution-focused therapist who can help you get back on track. People who see me have a variety of concerns: gaining self-awareness, anxiety/depression, relationship concerns and more. I think therapy can be very powerful in discovering our true selves and what we want out of life.
(213) 342-8302 View (213) 342-8302
Photo of Ashley Gharibian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Ashley Gharibian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I am passionate about helping individuals gain greater insight, self-awareness, and ultimately find their way toward healthy living. This can be done by exploring and understanding behavioral and relational patterns, as well as past experiences, while highlighting areas where changes can be made, resulting in more life-satisfaction. My experience is working with children, adolescents, adults who battle an array of mental health issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, challenging life transitions, relational issues, body image issues, maladaptive thought processes, and low self-esteem.
I am passionate about helping individuals gain greater insight, self-awareness, and ultimately find their way toward healthy living. This can be done by exploring and understanding behavioral and relational patterns, as well as past experiences, while highlighting areas where changes can be made, resulting in more life-satisfaction. My experience is working with children, adolescents, adults who battle an array of mental health issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, challenging life transitions, relational issues, body image issues, maladaptive thought processes, and low self-esteem.
(323) 970-2951 View (323) 970-2951
Photo of Kailah Joy DeJurnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Kailah Joy DeJurnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
Congratulations for taking the first step towards change! I utilize many methods with clients during sessions (expressive arts therapy, narrative therapy, trauma focused therapy, positive psychology, videos, worksheets, etc.) Change does take work but it can happen! I sometimes give homework to help my clients achieve their goals. I work with individual adults (18+). Whether it's anxiety, trauma, stress, or a mixture of things, I look forward to working with you!
Congratulations for taking the first step towards change! I utilize many methods with clients during sessions (expressive arts therapy, narrative therapy, trauma focused therapy, positive psychology, videos, worksheets, etc.) Change does take work but it can happen! I sometimes give homework to help my clients achieve their goals. I work with individual adults (18+). Whether it's anxiety, trauma, stress, or a mixture of things, I look forward to working with you!
(951) 400-4481 View (951) 400-4481

See more therapy options for Beverly Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
86% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

59% Aetna
49% Cigna and Evernorth
47% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Beverly Hills?

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.