Photo of Lauren Meier, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Meier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you have trouble finding the time to fit therapy into your schedule? Teletherapy allows you to access the help you need from the comfort of your own home at a time that works for you! I am a LCSW-C offering a complete teletherapy experience to adults across the state of Maryland. Currently accepting new clients! Immediate openings available!
Do you have trouble finding the time to fit therapy into your schedule? Teletherapy allows you to access the help you need from the comfort of your own home at a time that works for you! I am a LCSW-C offering a complete teletherapy experience to adults across the state of Maryland. Currently accepting new clients! Immediate openings available!
(443) 681-6794 View (443) 681-6794
Photo of Karen Diggs, LCPC, CAMS-lI, Life, Coach
Karen Diggs
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAMS-lI, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dundalk, MD 21222
Congratulations!, on taking the first step to healing and growth. The relationships that we have with our families, friends and peers etc., vastly impact the ways that we view the world and how we cope with our difficulties. As we experience difficult times in our lives, it is easy to feel alone and feel like others cannot understand. I seek to be a source of support during those times. Working to build healthy relationships is a joint effort. If you are willing to BELIEVE, you will begin to ACHIEVE and ultimately RECEIVE all that is meant for you. You have what it takes and I will support you all the way. HOPE is on the Way!
Congratulations!, on taking the first step to healing and growth. The relationships that we have with our families, friends and peers etc., vastly impact the ways that we view the world and how we cope with our difficulties. As we experience difficult times in our lives, it is easy to feel alone and feel like others cannot understand. I seek to be a source of support during those times. Working to build healthy relationships is a joint effort. If you are willing to BELIEVE, you will begin to ACHIEVE and ultimately RECEIVE all that is meant for you. You have what it takes and I will support you all the way. HOPE is on the Way!
(443) 417-1823 View (443) 417-1823
Photo of Chrissy DiMemmo - Addiction Treatment of Maryland
Addiction Treatment of Maryland
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
At Addiction Treatment of Maryland, we believe addiction is a chronic disease that can be treated successfully. We believe relapse is a part of the process but is avoidable. With rapid assessment and treatment delivery, as well as client commitment to change, treatment can result in long term recovery. Treatment consists of counseling, education, alternative therapies, job readiness, housing, mental health treatment and more. Don't have insurance and can't afford treatment? No worries. It is our mission to offer quality, affordable treatment to those in need. Ask about our sliding scale fees.
At Addiction Treatment of Maryland, we believe addiction is a chronic disease that can be treated successfully. We believe relapse is a part of the process but is avoidable. With rapid assessment and treatment delivery, as well as client commitment to change, treatment can result in long term recovery. Treatment consists of counseling, education, alternative therapies, job readiness, housing, mental health treatment and more. Don't have insurance and can't afford treatment? No worries. It is our mission to offer quality, affordable treatment to those in need. Ask about our sliding scale fees.
(410) 650-8549 View (410) 650-8549
Photo of Nailah Turner, MA, LGPC, LPC-R, Counselor
Nailah Turner
Counselor, MA, LGPC, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help bridge the gap between partners to create better communication and build intimacy. I want to encourage you and your partner(s) to be vulnerable with each other in order to come to mutual conclusions. Whether you are considering the higher commitment of marriage or rekindling your connection after difficult life events/transitions, I am here to provide the trained third party perspective that you seek to get back on the same page. When you're ready to get started, please reach out to schedule an intake assessment!
I help bridge the gap between partners to create better communication and build intimacy. I want to encourage you and your partner(s) to be vulnerable with each other in order to come to mutual conclusions. Whether you are considering the higher commitment of marriage or rekindling your connection after difficult life events/transitions, I am here to provide the trained third party perspective that you seek to get back on the same page. When you're ready to get started, please reach out to schedule an intake assessment!
(443) 530-6921 View (443) 530-6921
Photo of Erin Meyer, LCPC
Erin Meyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
In my practice, I take a results-driven approach and maintain a positive outlook, believing in the endless possibilities for each of my clients. "When we hold on to hope, anything is possible.I embrace a wellness perspective, recognizing that everyone has the inner strength to overcome life’s challenges. Deep down, I believe we all have an intuitive sense of what is right for us, and my passion is to help you unlock your unique path to happiness. At Mindful Healing Works, we offer a variety of services, including Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP), therapy, and medication management. Many of our clients utilize insurance.
In my practice, I take a results-driven approach and maintain a positive outlook, believing in the endless possibilities for each of my clients. "When we hold on to hope, anything is possible.I embrace a wellness perspective, recognizing that everyone has the inner strength to overcome life’s challenges. Deep down, I believe we all have an intuitive sense of what is right for us, and my passion is to help you unlock your unique path to happiness. At Mindful Healing Works, we offer a variety of services, including Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP), therapy, and medication management. Many of our clients utilize insurance.
(443) 960-8077 View (443) 960-8077
Photo of Zelma Vandermark
Zelma Vandermark
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have always known that I wanted to be in the helping professions, and that is what led me to earn my BS in Social Work, my MS from Johns Hopkins in Counseling, and my Doctorate in Behavioral Health from Arizona State. I have a mother who needs a lot of support, compassion, and empathy, so I decided to be the best I can be in the therapeutic profession to help her and others. My approach is to use the most validated therapeutic approaches to empower clients to explore their strengths and build upon their competencies to enhance their lives and allow them to find their inner capability to pick themselves up when needed.
I have always known that I wanted to be in the helping professions, and that is what led me to earn my BS in Social Work, my MS from Johns Hopkins in Counseling, and my Doctorate in Behavioral Health from Arizona State. I have a mother who needs a lot of support, compassion, and empathy, so I decided to be the best I can be in the therapeutic profession to help her and others. My approach is to use the most validated therapeutic approaches to empower clients to explore their strengths and build upon their competencies to enhance their lives and allow them to find their inner capability to pick themselves up when needed.
(240) 219-4094 View (240) 219-4094
Photo of Earl W Ridgell Jr, MA,  MS, LCPC, Counselor
Earl W Ridgell Jr
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
Rapport is critical for the therapeutic setting; without a positive connection, therapy is a difficult road. Therapists should provide a meaningful experience, which includes a safe place to share. I believe I need to provide a nonjudgmental environment to help healing. My role as a therapist is working with clients to improve their insight, identify triggers, manage life’s dilemmas and help them manage their symptoms. The goal is to help clients identify what is needed, be it, love, joy, peace, self-control, self-image and/or happiness, I meet my clients "right where they are" w/o judgment, but with clinical insight & experience.
Rapport is critical for the therapeutic setting; without a positive connection, therapy is a difficult road. Therapists should provide a meaningful experience, which includes a safe place to share. I believe I need to provide a nonjudgmental environment to help healing. My role as a therapist is working with clients to improve their insight, identify triggers, manage life’s dilemmas and help them manage their symptoms. The goal is to help clients identify what is needed, be it, love, joy, peace, self-control, self-image and/or happiness, I meet my clients "right where they are" w/o judgment, but with clinical insight & experience.
(443) 399-2752 View (443) 399-2752
Photo of Sadia Aurna, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sadia Aurna
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dundalk, MD 21222
Sadia Aurna, a counselor-in-training, believes that skillful therapy combined with fierce compassion can bring growth into a client's life. Sadia is currently finishing her last year at Johns Hopkins University in the clinical mental health track. Sadia can help with life-transition events (e.g., deployment, moving to a new state, divorce), grief, trauma, abuse, anger, relationships, and spiritual growth, to name some. Sadia invites clients to bring their whole selves into the session and explore the mind, soul, and life together. Together she hopes they will heal and grow.
Sadia Aurna, a counselor-in-training, believes that skillful therapy combined with fierce compassion can bring growth into a client's life. Sadia is currently finishing her last year at Johns Hopkins University in the clinical mental health track. Sadia can help with life-transition events (e.g., deployment, moving to a new state, divorce), grief, trauma, abuse, anger, relationships, and spiritual growth, to name some. Sadia invites clients to bring their whole selves into the session and explore the mind, soul, and life together. Together she hopes they will heal and grow.
(443) 234-8325 View (443) 234-8325
Photo of Lisa Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years experience working with adults and adolescents. I have helped people from different backgrounds and cultures who face a variety of challenges. I've gained my experience from working in corrections, hospitals, schools, community outpatient programs, and private practice. Many people I work with experience depression, trauma, anxiety, stress, sexual disorders, racing thoughts, psychosis, substance use, and impulsivity. These issues often create obstacles in all areas of life including school, employment, relationships, parenting, and spirituality.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years experience working with adults and adolescents. I have helped people from different backgrounds and cultures who face a variety of challenges. I've gained my experience from working in corrections, hospitals, schools, community outpatient programs, and private practice. Many people I work with experience depression, trauma, anxiety, stress, sexual disorders, racing thoughts, psychosis, substance use, and impulsivity. These issues often create obstacles in all areas of life including school, employment, relationships, parenting, and spirituality.
(240) 363-6057 View (240) 363-6057
Photo of Daniel Holler, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Holler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
No one gets through life without collecting emotional cuts and scars. Some cuts seem too small to matter much, but continue to be triggers for anger, depression and anxiety. I have been using Emotional Freedom Techniques (also known as Tapping) to promote healing of the triggers. As the triggers heal anger, anxiety and depression lose their grip on life. Special notice for VETS: TheTapping method is the most effective treatment for battlefield traumas I have found. While working with IBM I acquired a Masters Degree in Counseling from Loyola of Baltimore and later I earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work.
No one gets through life without collecting emotional cuts and scars. Some cuts seem too small to matter much, but continue to be triggers for anger, depression and anxiety. I have been using Emotional Freedom Techniques (also known as Tapping) to promote healing of the triggers. As the triggers heal anger, anxiety and depression lose their grip on life. Special notice for VETS: TheTapping method is the most effective treatment for battlefield traumas I have found. While working with IBM I acquired a Masters Degree in Counseling from Loyola of Baltimore and later I earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work.
(410) 453-8667 View (410) 453-8667
Photo of Karen Ross Taylor, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Ross Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
My virtual doors are open to helping those who want to help themselves. I have over 14 years of experience as a mental health therapist engaging with individual clients in community outpatient and virtual settings. I have served a diverse group of adults living with depression, anxiety, past trauma, grief, and relationship and family stressors. Your priorities will structure our time together. Together we will work towards goals that address your concerns, needs and aspirations.
My virtual doors are open to helping those who want to help themselves. I have over 14 years of experience as a mental health therapist engaging with individual clients in community outpatient and virtual settings. I have served a diverse group of adults living with depression, anxiety, past trauma, grief, and relationship and family stressors. Your priorities will structure our time together. Together we will work towards goals that address your concerns, needs and aspirations.
(443) 335-8047 View (443) 335-8047
Photo of Lynn Bass, MS, LGPC, NCC
Lynn Bass
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
I have been honored to serve clients suffering from a variety of mental health illness. I am passionate about helping those who suffered from abuse and trauma to find healing and begin to live their best lives. However, I have many years serving those who suffer with co-occurring disorders. Many of my clients suffered with depression, bi-polar, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders.
I have been honored to serve clients suffering from a variety of mental health illness. I am passionate about helping those who suffered from abuse and trauma to find healing and begin to live their best lives. However, I have many years serving those who suffer with co-occurring disorders. Many of my clients suffered with depression, bi-polar, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders.
(667) 401-9020 View (667) 401-9020
Photo of Jessica Ferenz, NCC, LCPC
Jessica Ferenz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dundalk, MD 21222
I believe that each person is unique, which means that each person’s journey in counseling should be made to fit their individual needs and personality. Life can feel overwhelming at times and seeking therapy is a great first step in discovering how to overcome obstacles and barriers that prevent us from being the best versions of ourselves.
I believe that each person is unique, which means that each person’s journey in counseling should be made to fit their individual needs and personality. Life can feel overwhelming at times and seeking therapy is a great first step in discovering how to overcome obstacles and barriers that prevent us from being the best versions of ourselves.
(443) 232-2617 View (443) 232-2617
Photo of Christine Williams, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Christine Williams, LCSW-C, believes that creating a safe and nurturing environment is essential for building a strong therapeutic relationship. She has applied this core belief throughout her years of experience working with individuals across various age groups and needs. Christine's professional background includes roles in special needs education, treatment foster care, young parent support groups, and community health for aging adults. Her diverse experience has reinforced her understanding that each person possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to foster healing and create lasting change.
Christine Williams, LCSW-C, believes that creating a safe and nurturing environment is essential for building a strong therapeutic relationship. She has applied this core belief throughout her years of experience working with individuals across various age groups and needs. Christine's professional background includes roles in special needs education, treatment foster care, young parent support groups, and community health for aging adults. Her diverse experience has reinforced her understanding that each person possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to foster healing and create lasting change.
View
Photo of Rodrique Sumpter - Clinical Psychotherapist, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Rodrique Sumpter - Clinical Psychotherapist
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you felt inadequate or not good enough? Are there things from your past that still haunt you? Do you feel disconnected and/or discouraged? Let's together take a journey toward creating a sense of self-awareness and self-worth thus, finding meaning in life, and ultimately create positive change that results in healing.
Have you felt inadequate or not good enough? Are there things from your past that still haunt you? Do you feel disconnected and/or discouraged? Let's together take a journey toward creating a sense of self-awareness and self-worth thus, finding meaning in life, and ultimately create positive change that results in healing.
(443) 290-5669 View (443) 290-5669
Photo of Kristin Hines - K&K Consultations, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
K&K Consultations, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been driven by a commitment to empower individuals and families facing significant challenges. My diverse professional experiences: immigration evaluations, probation and parole, forensic social work, ER psychiatric evaluations, case management in the criminal justice system—have deepened my understanding of how to navigate complex systems while addressing the unique needs of those I serve. I have worked with individuals at critical junctures in their lives. These experiences have honed my skills in conducting thorough evaluations, maintaining cultural sensitivity, and fostering trust with clients during vulnerable moments.
I have been driven by a commitment to empower individuals and families facing significant challenges. My diverse professional experiences: immigration evaluations, probation and parole, forensic social work, ER psychiatric evaluations, case management in the criminal justice system—have deepened my understanding of how to navigate complex systems while addressing the unique needs of those I serve. I have worked with individuals at critical junctures in their lives. These experiences have honed my skills in conducting thorough evaluations, maintaining cultural sensitivity, and fostering trust with clients during vulnerable moments.
(443) 806-8515 View (443) 806-8515
Photo of Erin Meyer - Mindful Healing Works Wellness Center, LCPC
Mindful Healing Works Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dundalk, MD 21222
Many of our clients grew up experiencing secrecy, addiction, guilt, blame and shame. It doesn’t have to be this way. Even if things have gone a certain way in your family, you can do it differently. You’re the creator of your story and the CEO of your life. It’s not easy, but it’s possible to become the best version of you. If you can see it in your mind, it can become your reality. Personal responsibility is the key to creating healthy patterns. You can’t change your past, but you can change your future. ​ My name is Erin Meyer, LCPC and I was inspired to go into therapy because I wanted to completely revolutionize the world of
Many of our clients grew up experiencing secrecy, addiction, guilt, blame and shame. It doesn’t have to be this way. Even if things have gone a certain way in your family, you can do it differently. You’re the creator of your story and the CEO of your life. It’s not easy, but it’s possible to become the best version of you. If you can see it in your mind, it can become your reality. Personal responsibility is the key to creating healthy patterns. You can’t change your past, but you can change your future. ​ My name is Erin Meyer, LCPC and I was inspired to go into therapy because I wanted to completely revolutionize the world of
(443) 879-7501 View (443) 879-7501
Photo of Yona Cseh, Pre-Licensed Professional
Yona Cseh
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dundalk, MD 21222
Not accepting new clients
I believe that all the resources a client needs to heal are already within them. I don’t view therapy as only talking for one hour each week, but instead I offer a systematic path of growth – one that will give you as much as you put in. I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach that aims to heal the “roots” of our psychological issues, rather than only managing our symptoms. I also help clients build a practical “toolbelt” of coping-skills they can use throughout the week to manage their internal experience and transform it over time.
I believe that all the resources a client needs to heal are already within them. I don’t view therapy as only talking for one hour each week, but instead I offer a systematic path of growth – one that will give you as much as you put in. I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach that aims to heal the “roots” of our psychological issues, rather than only managing our symptoms. I also help clients build a practical “toolbelt” of coping-skills they can use throughout the week to manage their internal experience and transform it over time.
(443) 230-5652 View (443) 230-5652
Photo of Brooke Dostillio, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brooke Dostillio
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, struggling with anxiety, navigating transitions, or facing difficulties in your relationships? Whether you’re dealing with ADHD, addiction, self-esteem issues, or stress, I understand that it can be hard to find the support you need. My clients often seek clarity, balance, and practical strategies to improve their well-being, and I’m here to guide you through that process with compassion and care.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, struggling with anxiety, navigating transitions, or facing difficulties in your relationships? Whether you’re dealing with ADHD, addiction, self-esteem issues, or stress, I understand that it can be hard to find the support you need. My clients often seek clarity, balance, and practical strategies to improve their well-being, and I’m here to guide you through that process with compassion and care.
(443) 331-2166 View (443) 331-2166
Photo of Robin B Newell, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin B Newell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed? My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration, fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am dedicated to guiding my clients toward healing and personal growth. My mission is to facilitate positive change, resilience, and emotional well-being in the lives of those I serve.
Are you struggling with feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed? My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration, fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am dedicated to guiding my clients toward healing and personal growth. My mission is to facilitate positive change, resilience, and emotional well-being in the lives of those I serve.
(240) 594-8172 View (240) 594-8172
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 21222

70+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in 21222 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Life Transitions
61% Family Conflict
58% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Aetna
80% CareFirst

How Therapists in 21222 see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 21222?

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.