Photo of Rebecca Parmalee - Rebecca Parmalee - The Neurovation Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Parmalee - The Neurovation Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Rebecca has experience helping families discover their strengths and overcome life’s difficulties with her supportive and compassionate, yet challenging, nature. Rebecca believes clients have the tools needed to be successful, and just by taking the step toward therapy are showing immense bravery and growth.
Rebecca has experience helping families discover their strengths and overcome life’s difficulties with her supportive and compassionate, yet challenging, nature. Rebecca believes clients have the tools needed to be successful, and just by taking the step toward therapy are showing immense bravery and growth.
(475) 405-2689 View (475) 405-2689
Photo of Phyllis Bettino, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Phyllis Bettino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Welcome to a space where your well-being, growth, and healing are my top priorities. I am deeply committed to supporting you through your journey. With a background in Public Health and Marriage and Family Therapy, I bring a holistic approach to understanding and addressing the complexities of your life. I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals and families, navigating a wide range of challenges. I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support every step of the way. Together, we will work towards developing effective coping strategies, building resilience, and fostering personal growth.
Welcome to a space where your well-being, growth, and healing are my top priorities. I am deeply committed to supporting you through your journey. With a background in Public Health and Marriage and Family Therapy, I bring a holistic approach to understanding and addressing the complexities of your life. I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals and families, navigating a wide range of challenges. I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support every step of the way. Together, we will work towards developing effective coping strategies, building resilience, and fostering personal growth.
(475) 253-2925 View (475) 253-2925
Photo of Diana Mille - Diana Mille - The Neurovation Center, PhD, MA, LMFT, AAMFT, Approve, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Mille - The Neurovation Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT, AAMFT, Approve
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Therapist and consultant in EMDR, I specialize in working with individuals, couples and their families who experience psychological and emotional trauma and PTSD. I work with diverse populations experiencing trauma and a wide range of trauma-informed mental health diagnoses (e.g., anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, chronic pain and eating disorders) as well as those affected by community disasters. I utilize modalities such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems, structural and strategic therapy and the Metaframeworks perspective.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Therapist and consultant in EMDR, I specialize in working with individuals, couples and their families who experience psychological and emotional trauma and PTSD. I work with diverse populations experiencing trauma and a wide range of trauma-informed mental health diagnoses (e.g., anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, chronic pain and eating disorders) as well as those affected by community disasters. I utilize modalities such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems, structural and strategic therapy and the Metaframeworks perspective.
(203) 989-4566 View (203) 989-4566
Photo of Lauren Wolfe, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Wolfe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Are you, your child or teen feeling anxious, worried or stressed? Do you wish to feel more calm and joy? Now, more than ever many adults, children and teens are feeling overwhelmed with constant worried thoughts and feelings of anxiety. I support individuals, parents and families in cultivating more peace and calm in their lives. I teach clients how to access their own inner strength and help them to acquire the skills needed to live a more fulfilling life.
Are you, your child or teen feeling anxious, worried or stressed? Do you wish to feel more calm and joy? Now, more than ever many adults, children and teens are feeling overwhelmed with constant worried thoughts and feelings of anxiety. I support individuals, parents and families in cultivating more peace and calm in their lives. I teach clients how to access their own inner strength and help them to acquire the skills needed to live a more fulfilling life.
(475) 242-8091 View (475) 242-8091
Photo of Gillian Verrastro, LCSW, LADC, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gillian Verrastro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Since 2003, I have been helping individuals in Connecticut navigate mental health and substance use challenges as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor. I am also a board-certified telemental health provider, offering accessible care to meet you where you are—both emotionally and physically.
Since 2003, I have been helping individuals in Connecticut navigate mental health and substance use challenges as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor. I am also a board-certified telemental health provider, offering accessible care to meet you where you are—both emotionally and physically.
(475) 323-6321 View (475) 323-6321
Photo of Laurie Pittman - Adult & Pediatric Counseling Specialists PLLC, LMFT, LCSW, LADC, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adult & Pediatric Counseling Specialists PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a certified expert is the best way to put things into perspective. As committed, professional psychotherapists, we implement effective counseling methods to instill self-understanding among patients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. APCS is a private mental health practice made up of licensed therapists who provide counseling services to adults, children, couples, and families. Morning, evening, and weekend appointments are available and we accept major insurances. Call us to learn more about how we can help you and/or your family.
Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a certified expert is the best way to put things into perspective. As committed, professional psychotherapists, we implement effective counseling methods to instill self-understanding among patients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. APCS is a private mental health practice made up of licensed therapists who provide counseling services to adults, children, couples, and families. Morning, evening, and weekend appointments are available and we accept major insurances. Call us to learn more about how we can help you and/or your family.
View
Photo of Debbie Winter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Winter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Waitlist for new clients
Helping people face the challenges in their lives that lead to an improved sense of wellbeing and purpose is my focus and passion. By creating a safe, trusting and collaborative environment, my clients feel seen and empowered to learn, grow and change. I work with children, teens, adults and families seeking help with challenges that impact all areas of their lives. I have extensive experience in supporting those with social skills deficits, trauma, and family instability, especially those with persistent anxiety and depression, ADHD, ODD and SUD. I utilize research-based methods through a family systems model.
Helping people face the challenges in their lives that lead to an improved sense of wellbeing and purpose is my focus and passion. By creating a safe, trusting and collaborative environment, my clients feel seen and empowered to learn, grow and change. I work with children, teens, adults and families seeking help with challenges that impact all areas of their lives. I have extensive experience in supporting those with social skills deficits, trauma, and family instability, especially those with persistent anxiety and depression, ADHD, ODD and SUD. I utilize research-based methods through a family systems model.
(833) 320-0061 View (833) 320-0061
Photo of Liz Semenyck, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Semenyck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Look at you, bravely taking the first step to begin your therapy journey! Life is not easy and often gets in the way of our plans, leaving you feeling stuck and anxious. Whether you are struggling with a life transition, navigating neurodivergency, exploring your LGBTQ+ identity, looking to unpack previous trauma; you have found the right space. My therapy space offers a safe, non-judgement, social justice forward and often humorous place where we can begin to explore the issues creating barriers in your life and find your inner inspiration, together. I proudly support the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
Look at you, bravely taking the first step to begin your therapy journey! Life is not easy and often gets in the way of our plans, leaving you feeling stuck and anxious. Whether you are struggling with a life transition, navigating neurodivergency, exploring your LGBTQ+ identity, looking to unpack previous trauma; you have found the right space. My therapy space offers a safe, non-judgement, social justice forward and often humorous place where we can begin to explore the issues creating barriers in your life and find your inner inspiration, together. I proudly support the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
(475) 271-2704 View (475) 271-2704
Photo of Kristie Liotta, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristie Liotta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Searching for the right therapist is an important step in an individual's growth and transformation process. Often, my clients initially arrive in my office exhausted from "doing it alone" or "toughing it out". From our very first session, I support my clients and commit to traveling with them on their Life's journey. Together we will gently peel back the layers of anxious struggle, dysfunctional behaviors, and pain. We seek the roots of these problems and focus our treatment on healing what lies beneath them. As healing happens, I mentor my clients to reclaim areas of their life that have been lost.
Searching for the right therapist is an important step in an individual's growth and transformation process. Often, my clients initially arrive in my office exhausted from "doing it alone" or "toughing it out". From our very first session, I support my clients and commit to traveling with them on their Life's journey. Together we will gently peel back the layers of anxious struggle, dysfunctional behaviors, and pain. We seek the roots of these problems and focus our treatment on healing what lies beneath them. As healing happens, I mentor my clients to reclaim areas of their life that have been lost.
(475) 800-8586 View (475) 800-8586
Photo of Amy N Dunn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy N Dunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The work we do in therapy can be so powerful and impactful. I utilize our therapeutic connection, along with a flexible combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to inform treatment and guide you toward your goals. Whether you struggle with relationships, juggling the many hats you wear, or working through some uncomfortable thoughts, I recognize that every person’s story is so intricately unique, and I aim to support you in making the changes necessary on your path to healing.
The work we do in therapy can be so powerful and impactful. I utilize our therapeutic connection, along with a flexible combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to inform treatment and guide you toward your goals. Whether you struggle with relationships, juggling the many hats you wear, or working through some uncomfortable thoughts, I recognize that every person’s story is so intricately unique, and I aim to support you in making the changes necessary on your path to healing.
(203) 590-9849 View (203) 590-9849
Photo of Jennifer Penna, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Penna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Hi and welcome! I'm so glad you're here and I can't wait to potentially work with you! Let me tell you a little bit more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I focus on approaching each client individually so that you each receive support tailored to your specific needs that allow you to reach your own goals.  My focus is in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families. I truly believe that my past experiences of working in community, outpatient, and school settings will allow me to successfully support you through any of life's transitions.
Hi and welcome! I'm so glad you're here and I can't wait to potentially work with you! Let me tell you a little bit more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I focus on approaching each client individually so that you each receive support tailored to your specific needs that allow you to reach your own goals.  My focus is in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families. I truly believe that my past experiences of working in community, outpatient, and school settings will allow me to successfully support you through any of life's transitions.
(203) 490-0191 View (203) 490-0191
Photo of Karen Kravec - Karen Kravec, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Kravec, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Finding the right fit in a therapist can be hard, so let me be upfront and then you can decide. Are you looking for someone with true expertise treating trauma and anxiety disorders? Are you looking for therapy that is supported by neuroscience? Do you also value genuine connection with your therapist (and have a great sense of humor)? If you answered yes to those, we'd probably be a great fit. I work with teens, adults, and first responders looking for concrete, results driven brain health.
Finding the right fit in a therapist can be hard, so let me be upfront and then you can decide. Are you looking for someone with true expertise treating trauma and anxiety disorders? Are you looking for therapy that is supported by neuroscience? Do you also value genuine connection with your therapist (and have a great sense of humor)? If you answered yes to those, we'd probably be a great fit. I work with teens, adults, and first responders looking for concrete, results driven brain health.
(475) 262-8406 View (475) 262-8406
Photo of Elaine Almeida, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elaine Almeida
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Life is a series of transitions that can create anxiety and other emotions or feelings that are challenging to maneuver. I offer support through these transitions working with the mind, body, and spirit. I have a holistic approach I believing in the importance of all aspects of a person for whole health and healing.
Life is a series of transitions that can create anxiety and other emotions or feelings that are challenging to maneuver. I offer support through these transitions working with the mind, body, and spirit. I have a holistic approach I believing in the importance of all aspects of a person for whole health and healing.
(203) 580-6981 View (203) 580-6981
Photo of Cornelius J. Dunn, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cornelius J. Dunn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
I believe you deserve therapy, because at times, life can be really painful. As your therapist, we'll work together to explore what's been hurting you. It's by processing your emotional pain that you can heal, and when you heal, you gain the freedom to choose your path in life. So, let's work together to address your past, present, and future pains, and move toward a reality where you’re in control, not your pain.
I believe you deserve therapy, because at times, life can be really painful. As your therapist, we'll work together to explore what's been hurting you. It's by processing your emotional pain that you can heal, and when you heal, you gain the freedom to choose your path in life. So, let's work together to address your past, present, and future pains, and move toward a reality where you’re in control, not your pain.
View
Photo of Melissa Schleier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Schleier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming with transitions, losses and changes. It's not uncommon to struggle with self-esteem, perfectionism, relationships, anxiety and depression. Let's work together and home in on your personal strengths, values, dreams and what wellness looks like for you. We each have the ability to heal and grow if we have a space to process our experiences, increasing self-compassion and inner peace.
Life can be overwhelming with transitions, losses and changes. It's not uncommon to struggle with self-esteem, perfectionism, relationships, anxiety and depression. Let's work together and home in on your personal strengths, values, dreams and what wellness looks like for you. We each have the ability to heal and grow if we have a space to process our experiences, increasing self-compassion and inner peace.
(475) 473-9894 View (475) 473-9894
Photo of Vince Varsh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vince Varsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Vince has extensive experience working with teens and young adults to address a broad range of presenting concerns. Vince’s passion for the work that he does stems from his previous career as a personal trainer and competitive kickboxer, where over a decade of working with individuals to achieve fitness goals and improve athletic performance led to an appreciation for the mind-body connection and a deep respect for the influence each can have on the other. Vince aspires to bridge the gap between physical and mental wellness practices through the development of experiential forms of therapy.
Vince has extensive experience working with teens and young adults to address a broad range of presenting concerns. Vince’s passion for the work that he does stems from his previous career as a personal trainer and competitive kickboxer, where over a decade of working with individuals to achieve fitness goals and improve athletic performance led to an appreciation for the mind-body connection and a deep respect for the influence each can have on the other. Vince aspires to bridge the gap between physical and mental wellness practices through the development of experiential forms of therapy.
(475) 259-3479 View (475) 259-3479
Photo of Jennifer E Blair, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer E Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Sometimes going through life’s challenges we can feel unheard. I am a compassionate listener who will honor your personal journey. I will dedicate myself to helping you find your strengths, learn and heal. I have many years experience in the mental health field helping people meet their goals, achieve more healthy relationships , reduce stress, improve mood and grow their self-esteem. I believe people thrive in a caring and nonjudgmental environment. Working in a variety of settings I have always used a supportive and collaborative style, recognizing that each person is unique and deserves an individualized treatment plan.
Sometimes going through life’s challenges we can feel unheard. I am a compassionate listener who will honor your personal journey. I will dedicate myself to helping you find your strengths, learn and heal. I have many years experience in the mental health field helping people meet their goals, achieve more healthy relationships , reduce stress, improve mood and grow their self-esteem. I believe people thrive in a caring and nonjudgmental environment. Working in a variety of settings I have always used a supportive and collaborative style, recognizing that each person is unique and deserves an individualized treatment plan.
(475) 405-1354 View (475) 405-1354
Photo of Lauren Peterson - Lauren Peterson - The Neurovation Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Peterson - The Neurovation Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
With a background in EMDR, Lauren is highly proficient in helping clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. Her extensive training in trauma therapy, combined with her empathetic nature, allows her to guide clients on their journey towards recovery and resilience. Lauren also utilizes evidence-based modalities such as CBT and MI to help clients identify negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and foster motivation for change.
With a background in EMDR, Lauren is highly proficient in helping clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. Her extensive training in trauma therapy, combined with her empathetic nature, allows her to guide clients on their journey towards recovery and resilience. Lauren also utilizes evidence-based modalities such as CBT and MI to help clients identify negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and foster motivation for change.
(475) 251-8479 View (475) 251-8479
Photo of Nicole Gentili, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Gentili
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello parents! If you're looking for a skilled and experienced therapist for your child, adolescent or family you've landed on the right page. For 20 years I have specialized in helping anxious, emotionally overwhelmed and neurodivergent kids and their stressed and exhausted parents. I also help adults with similar struggles address their own well-being. My approach is strengths-based, optimistic, systemic and culturally competent. Perhaps your child's anxiety, mood or behavior is having a huge impact on family life, or maybe you and your partner are struggling to be on the same page. Let's talk about how I can help!
Hello parents! If you're looking for a skilled and experienced therapist for your child, adolescent or family you've landed on the right page. For 20 years I have specialized in helping anxious, emotionally overwhelmed and neurodivergent kids and their stressed and exhausted parents. I also help adults with similar struggles address their own well-being. My approach is strengths-based, optimistic, systemic and culturally competent. Perhaps your child's anxiety, mood or behavior is having a huge impact on family life, or maybe you and your partner are struggling to be on the same page. Let's talk about how I can help!
(203) 285-8818 View (203) 285-8818
Photo of Dr. Laura Lynn Kohley, DSW, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Laura Lynn Kohley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Waitlist for new clients
As a parent you are worried about your child's development and how he or she is doing academically and socially. If you are concerned about your own reaction and response to their problem behavior(s) and challenges I understand and I can help. As a licensed social worker, I have vast experience working with individuals and families dealing with stress, depression and anxiety.
As a parent you are worried about your child's development and how he or she is doing academically and socially. If you are concerned about your own reaction and response to their problem behavior(s) and challenges I understand and I can help. As a licensed social worker, I have vast experience working with individuals and families dealing with stress, depression and anxiety.
(203) 769-9439 View (203) 769-9439
1

See more therapy options for 06482

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 06482

30+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in 06482 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
81% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
69% Stress
63% Parenting

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
65% Oxford

How Therapists in 06482 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 06482?

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.