Photo of Deborah Lynn Sokolowski, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Lynn Sokolowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
You feel anxious and overwhelmed. You are tired of feeling out of control. You have people counting on you and you feel lost as you struggle to keep it all together. You are ready to enjoy your life but you don't know how. What you are feeling is normal and it can be managed. We all need a little help sometimes.
You feel anxious and overwhelmed. You are tired of feeling out of control. You have people counting on you and you feel lost as you struggle to keep it all together. You are ready to enjoy your life but you don't know how. What you are feeling is normal and it can be managed. We all need a little help sometimes.
(262) 205-6798 View (262) 205-6798
Photo of Casey McCarragher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey McCarragher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
In this day and age, especially post pandemic, everyone could use additional support. Simply to feel heard and appreciated can be hard to find. Sometimes however, our issues can extend past those needs and this is why it can be helpful to have an impartial 3rd party who can help you explore all options and possible solutions. Setting realistic goals and working on small changes can potentially lead to big outcomes.
In this day and age, especially post pandemic, everyone could use additional support. Simply to feel heard and appreciated can be hard to find. Sometimes however, our issues can extend past those needs and this is why it can be helpful to have an impartial 3rd party who can help you explore all options and possible solutions. Setting realistic goals and working on small changes can potentially lead to big outcomes.
(262) 500-3509 View (262) 500-3509
Photo of Heather A. Byrne - Heather A. Byrne, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Heather A. Byrne, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Waitlist for new clients
I help adults who are really struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems and difficult situations. I'll help you tap into your inner strength and personal power so you can make the changes needed to feel better and create a more fulfilling life. We will work best together if you really want to improve your mood, better your relationships, or get through difficult times.
I help adults who are really struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems and difficult situations. I'll help you tap into your inner strength and personal power so you can make the changes needed to feel better and create a more fulfilling life. We will work best together if you really want to improve your mood, better your relationships, or get through difficult times.
(262) 358-8125 View (262) 358-8125
Photo of Brittany Schwarten - Healthy Minds Healing Hearts LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healthy Minds Healing Hearts LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
Waitlist for new clients
Brittany brings a direct, honest, and goal-oriented personality to every session and is not afraid to challenge you to help you to grow.
Brittany brings a direct, honest, and goal-oriented personality to every session and is not afraid to challenge you to help you to grow.
(262) 214-3678 View (262) 214-3678
Photo of Carley Binder, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carley Binder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Through the work I do with my clients, I use an integrative and holistic approach to help people in whatever stage of life they may be. The space I provide is non-judgemental, trusting and supportive.
Through the work I do with my clients, I use an integrative and holistic approach to help people in whatever stage of life they may be. The space I provide is non-judgemental, trusting and supportive.
(262) 233-4929 View (262) 233-4929
Photo of Deidre Marsh, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deidre Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
Many people have lived through terrible events that continue to haunt them, such as sexual assaults, war, child abuse, suicide, violence, near-death experiences, and more. Now the nightmares won't stop, and the memories keep popping into your head. You're on edge, jumpy, and can't relax. You might feel guilty or ashamed about what happened or how you responded. You may isolate from others, lash out, use drugs or alcohol, or consider suicide to escape it all. You're likely exhausted by all the effort to push it away and keep moving forward. If this sounds like you, you might be suffering from PTSD.
Many people have lived through terrible events that continue to haunt them, such as sexual assaults, war, child abuse, suicide, violence, near-death experiences, and more. Now the nightmares won't stop, and the memories keep popping into your head. You're on edge, jumpy, and can't relax. You might feel guilty or ashamed about what happened or how you responded. You may isolate from others, lash out, use drugs or alcohol, or consider suicide to escape it all. You're likely exhausted by all the effort to push it away and keep moving forward. If this sounds like you, you might be suffering from PTSD.
(262) 384-5902 View (262) 384-5902
Photo of Dawn Cataldo, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Cataldo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for guiding others to discover their best self through the counseling process in a collaborative partnership. I find true joy in building a relationship with my clients that revolves around trust and support. I integrate a wellness perspective into my teaching and therapeutic pursuits. My therapeutic approach is integrative therapy with an emphasis on mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I have a passion for guiding others to discover their best self through the counseling process in a collaborative partnership. I find true joy in building a relationship with my clients that revolves around trust and support. I integrate a wellness perspective into my teaching and therapeutic pursuits. My therapeutic approach is integrative therapy with an emphasis on mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
(262) 333-6559 View (262) 333-6559
Photo of Sarah Gracz, MS, LMFT, CEDS-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Gracz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to help clients uncover their most authentic self by exploring how change, growth, and insight can lead to better relationships both within and with others. I utilize systems theory and an integrative approach to help others achieve their goals and overall emotional well-being. I believe people have the inherent ability to embrace strengths from within to effect change and manage life transitions. I am passionate about providing a safe and supportive environment for clients and empowering them on their journey towards healing.
My goal is to help clients uncover their most authentic self by exploring how change, growth, and insight can lead to better relationships both within and with others. I utilize systems theory and an integrative approach to help others achieve their goals and overall emotional well-being. I believe people have the inherent ability to embrace strengths from within to effect change and manage life transitions. I am passionate about providing a safe and supportive environment for clients and empowering them on their journey towards healing.
(262) 217-8287 View (262) 217-8287
Photo of David Robert Ordan, MS, LPC, NCC, Psi Chi, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Robert Ordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, Psi Chi
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness! We all want this. We all deserve this. Especially in our romantic relationships. So why do things go wrong? Lack of communication. The good news is, loving communication is a skill that can be learned. Even after years of feeling stuck. When couples learn to talk about issues in a loving way, their whole relationship improves. (Yes, even in the bedroom!) Here's what we'll cover in counseling: • How to bring up a problem that’s bothering you. • How to listen with an open heart. • How to make sure your partner feels heard. • How to come together to create solutions.
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness! We all want this. We all deserve this. Especially in our romantic relationships. So why do things go wrong? Lack of communication. The good news is, loving communication is a skill that can be learned. Even after years of feeling stuck. When couples learn to talk about issues in a loving way, their whole relationship improves. (Yes, even in the bedroom!) Here's what we'll cover in counseling: • How to bring up a problem that’s bothering you. • How to listen with an open heart. • How to make sure your partner feels heard. • How to come together to create solutions.
(262) 228-2588 View (262) 228-2588
Photo of Nanci Schiman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nanci Schiman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Not accepting new clients
Clients come to therapy with individual needs, goals and expectations. Difficult, uncomfortable emotions may have you doubting or criticizing yourself. Perhaps you're ready to explore and heal from recent or long ago painful, traumatic experiences. You may feel growing frustration and hopelessness with a marriage filled with conflict or disconnection. Anxiety or depression create a gnawing feeling of being 'stuck' or lacking direction and purpose. My clients describe my approach as collaborative, compassionate and encouraging, supporting your goals and empowering you through insight, strategies and rediscovery.
Clients come to therapy with individual needs, goals and expectations. Difficult, uncomfortable emotions may have you doubting or criticizing yourself. Perhaps you're ready to explore and heal from recent or long ago painful, traumatic experiences. You may feel growing frustration and hopelessness with a marriage filled with conflict or disconnection. Anxiety or depression create a gnawing feeling of being 'stuck' or lacking direction and purpose. My clients describe my approach as collaborative, compassionate and encouraging, supporting your goals and empowering you through insight, strategies and rediscovery.
(262) 404-4451 View (262) 404-4451
Photo of Kari Duncan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Kari Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with five years of experience. She received an undergraduate psychology degree with an emphasis in At-Risk Child and Youth Care from UW-La Crosse before completing a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. Kari has a history of working with young children (6 years and under) and both biological and foster parents on concerns such as challenging behavior, trauma, and anxiety using behavioral and trauma focused therapy.
Kari Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with five years of experience. She received an undergraduate psychology degree with an emphasis in At-Risk Child and Youth Care from UW-La Crosse before completing a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. Kari has a history of working with young children (6 years and under) and both biological and foster parents on concerns such as challenging behavior, trauma, and anxiety using behavioral and trauma focused therapy.
(262) 208-1946 View (262) 208-1946
Photo of Brenda Stiff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Stiff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Brenda K. Stiff, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing psychotherapy since 1985. She graduated from Kentucky State University with a Bachelors of Science in Social Work, and matriculated towards her Masters of Science in Social Work at the University of Louisville, Kent School of Social Work, specializing in Psychopathology. She holds a PhD in Women's Study and Biblical Counseling. Brenda believes Psychotherapy and Biblical Basis for Counseling are her main focus.
Brenda K. Stiff, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing psychotherapy since 1985. She graduated from Kentucky State University with a Bachelors of Science in Social Work, and matriculated towards her Masters of Science in Social Work at the University of Louisville, Kent School of Social Work, specializing in Psychopathology. She holds a PhD in Women's Study and Biblical Counseling. Brenda believes Psychotherapy and Biblical Basis for Counseling are her main focus.
(262) 592-5180 View (262) 592-5180
Photo of Elizabeth Dulak, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Dulak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Betsy Dulak is a state licensed professional counselor, nationally registered art therapist, and has been working with clients since 2005. She earned her undergraduate degree at Florida State University, where she swam for their swim team, and her master's degree at Mount Mary University. Betsy specializes in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and issues of trauma, grief, and loss. She helps clients increase their insight to develop changes in negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Betsy Dulak is a state licensed professional counselor, nationally registered art therapist, and has been working with clients since 2005. She earned her undergraduate degree at Florida State University, where she swam for their swim team, and her master's degree at Mount Mary University. Betsy specializes in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and issues of trauma, grief, and loss. She helps clients increase their insight to develop changes in negative thought patterns and behaviors.
(262) 381-2167 View (262) 381-2167
Photo of Maria Erdmann-Rodriguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Erdmann-Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Dr. Maria Erdmann Rodriguez is a psychotherapist of over 20 years experience. A specialist in treating mood-regulation disorders, Dr. Rodriguez has special interest and expertise in the psychological care of patients with chronic pain and other medical conditions. As a chronic pain sufferer herself, Dr. Rodriguez has personal insight into the unique needs and challenges facing those with invisible and chronic medical illness. Additional interests include the treatment of relationship issues, mood and anxiety related to the perinatal period, trauma, life-transition challenges, and grief .
Dr. Maria Erdmann Rodriguez is a psychotherapist of over 20 years experience. A specialist in treating mood-regulation disorders, Dr. Rodriguez has special interest and expertise in the psychological care of patients with chronic pain and other medical conditions. As a chronic pain sufferer herself, Dr. Rodriguez has personal insight into the unique needs and challenges facing those with invisible and chronic medical illness. Additional interests include the treatment of relationship issues, mood and anxiety related to the perinatal period, trauma, life-transition challenges, and grief .
(262) 588-4063 View (262) 588-4063
Photo of Susan Schroeder, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Schroeder
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Susan has over 30 years of psychotherapy experience with adults, couples, families and groups. As a licensed mental health counselor (LPC), Susan works with clients struggling with mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma resolution, anger management, LGBTQ+ relationships, sexuality concerns, and marriage and divorce transitions. Susan received her BS in Movement Therapy and MS in Counseling Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has also been licensed in chemical dependency treatment, certified for social work practice and is trained in family mediation and Collaborative Family Law coaching.
Susan has over 30 years of psychotherapy experience with adults, couples, families and groups. As a licensed mental health counselor (LPC), Susan works with clients struggling with mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma resolution, anger management, LGBTQ+ relationships, sexuality concerns, and marriage and divorce transitions. Susan received her BS in Movement Therapy and MS in Counseling Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has also been licensed in chemical dependency treatment, certified for social work practice and is trained in family mediation and Collaborative Family Law coaching.
(262) 588-4270 View (262) 588-4270
Photo of Naomi Arenzon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Arenzon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Naomi Arenzon is a Licensed Certified Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Before coming to Lifestance, Naomi has worked with a variety of ages facilitating group therapy which consists of both psycho-education and processing. Facilitating group therapy has helped Naomi to efficiently teach coping skills as well as increased her patience, compassion, and understanding. Naomi's priority is to create and maintain a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, frustrations, and behaviors, without fear, judgment, or shame.
Naomi Arenzon is a Licensed Certified Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Before coming to Lifestance, Naomi has worked with a variety of ages facilitating group therapy which consists of both psycho-education and processing. Facilitating group therapy has helped Naomi to efficiently teach coping skills as well as increased her patience, compassion, and understanding. Naomi's priority is to create and maintain a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, frustrations, and behaviors, without fear, judgment, or shame.
(262) 400-3027 View (262) 400-3027
Photo of Lauren Damai, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Damai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Lauren Damai is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing in the Milwaukee community for 10 years. She holds a B.A. from Marquette University and an MSW from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a certificate in Applied Gerontology. Lauren enjoys working with individuals and families to find a resolution to life's challenges. She approaches treatment from a holistic perspective and uses strengths based modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered treatment.
Lauren Damai is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing in the Milwaukee community for 10 years. She holds a B.A. from Marquette University and an MSW from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a certificate in Applied Gerontology. Lauren enjoys working with individuals and families to find a resolution to life's challenges. She approaches treatment from a holistic perspective and uses strengths based modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered treatment.
(262) 592-5046 View (262) 592-5046
Photo of Emma Davis, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Emma Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Emma’s approach to the therapeutic relationship is to view each client as an individual, and to incorporate their wants, needs, and interests into the therapeutic space. She believes in a client centered, strengthsbased approach. Within her practice, Emma utilizes elements of CBT, brainspotting, motivational interviewing, and play and talk therapy. Emma believes each client deserves to be met with kindness and compassion.
Emma Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Emma’s approach to the therapeutic relationship is to view each client as an individual, and to incorporate their wants, needs, and interests into the therapeutic space. She believes in a client centered, strengthsbased approach. Within her practice, Emma utilizes elements of CBT, brainspotting, motivational interviewing, and play and talk therapy. Emma believes each client deserves to be met with kindness and compassion.
(262) 254-6266 View (262) 254-6266
Photo of Victoria Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Hi, my name is Victoria Jackson! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin and I have been working in the field for 14 years since obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and then I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work soon after. I've worked with individuals throughout the years in providing psychotherapy with the focus of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Substance Abuse and Trauma. I utilize treatment approaches that sustain real results with Strengths-Based, Solutions Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi, my name is Victoria Jackson! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin and I have been working in the field for 14 years since obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and then I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work soon after. I've worked with individuals throughout the years in providing psychotherapy with the focus of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Substance Abuse and Trauma. I utilize treatment approaches that sustain real results with Strengths-Based, Solutions Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(262) 588-4154 View (262) 588-4154
Photo of Nakisha Stewart, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nakisha Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53097
Nakisha Stewart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from Alverno College with a Master's Degree in Community Psychology. Nakisha utilizes a treatment approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy( CBT) as a way to help provide insight into how our thoughts influence our emotions ad how emotions influence behavioral reactions, in addition to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) with introduction of distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Nakisha Stewart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from Alverno College with a Master's Degree in Community Psychology. Nakisha utilizes a treatment approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy( CBT) as a way to help provide insight into how our thoughts influence our emotions ad how emotions influence behavioral reactions, in addition to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) with introduction of distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
(262) 588-4316 View (262) 588-4316
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 53097

80+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 53097 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Grief
61% Life Transitions
51% ADHD
48% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% Other
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 53097 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 53097?

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.