Therapists in 60473

Photo of Kimberly Spencer, Counselor, LCPC
Kimberly Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
South Holland, IL 60473
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) as well as a Certified Alcohol and other Drug counselor. In my career I have partnered with clients with chronic mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, who also many times had co-occurring disorders such as substance use, but my passion is to work with adults who are attempting to overcome trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, daily life stressors, relationships, and those who are trying to identify and overcome the root causes of emotional pain and overall unhappiness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) as well as a Certified Alcohol and other Drug counselor. In my career I have partnered with clients with chronic mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, who also many times had co-occurring disorders such as substance use, but my passion is to work with adults who are attempting to overcome trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, daily life stressors, relationships, and those who are trying to identify and overcome the root causes of emotional pain and overall unhappiness.
(708) 292-6558 View (708) 292-6558
Photo of Dr. Kimberly A Alderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Dr. Kimberly A Alderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
South Holland, IL 60473
Dr. Kimberly Alderson career path has afforded her the opportunity to understand how individuals and life changes can shape a person identity and train of thought. Working with a vast population of clients, has taught Dr. Alderson how the dynamics of life, work, family, and other unexpected or unforeseen changes in life can cause anxiety and depression.
Dr. Kimberly Alderson career path has afforded her the opportunity to understand how individuals and life changes can shape a person identity and train of thought. Working with a vast population of clients, has taught Dr. Alderson how the dynamics of life, work, family, and other unexpected or unforeseen changes in life can cause anxiety and depression.
(708) 381-1536 View (708) 381-1536
Photo of Brittany Rogers, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Brittany Rogers
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Online Only
My name is Brittany Rogers and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor, a certified alcohol and drug counselor, and a proud millennial. I have been working in the mental health field since 2014 and have provided individual, couples, and family counseling as well as group therapy and facilitated workshops. I have worked at every level of care and I also have experience working with NFP organizations in the Chicagoland area and speaking on panels focused on mental health and relationship dynamics.
My name is Brittany Rogers and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor, a certified alcohol and drug counselor, and a proud millennial. I have been working in the mental health field since 2014 and have provided individual, couples, and family counseling as well as group therapy and facilitated workshops. I have worked at every level of care and I also have experience working with NFP organizations in the Chicagoland area and speaking on panels focused on mental health and relationship dynamics.
(872) 242-2002 View (872) 242-2002
Photo of Jalissa Reynolds, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Jalissa Reynolds
Counselor, MA, LCPC
South Holland, IL 60473
You may be in a space where you’ve tried to do everything on your own, holding it together for everyone else, pouring out your energy into family, work, and relationships, while quietly carrying the weight of your own struggles with no place to lay them down. Maybe you’ve been searching for peace, direction, and clarity, and you’ve come to realize that what’s missing is not just healing for your mind, but restoration for your soul. You're ready to invite God into your healing, and to finally allow yourself to rest in His presence while also doing the work to grow.
You may be in a space where you’ve tried to do everything on your own, holding it together for everyone else, pouring out your energy into family, work, and relationships, while quietly carrying the weight of your own struggles with no place to lay them down. Maybe you’ve been searching for peace, direction, and clarity, and you’ve come to realize that what’s missing is not just healing for your mind, but restoration for your soul. You're ready to invite God into your healing, and to finally allow yourself to rest in His presence while also doing the work to grow.
(872) 206-9698 View (872) 206-9698
Photo of Cassandra Howard - South Loop Counseling Services , Counselor, LCPC
For over the past 20 years, I have enjoyed assisting in putting together the pieces of my client's puzzles. I strive in putting the needs of my clients 1st! Focusing on evidenced based treatments; my advanced trainings have equipped me to use therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, child-parent psychotherapy and many more. I have an extensive background in treating mood disorders, behavioral modifications, emotional dysregulation,PTSD and other disturbances. I tailor my practice to uphold the confidentiality of my clients and I strive to give my clients the best service possible!!!!
For over the past 20 years, I have enjoyed assisting in putting together the pieces of my client's puzzles. I strive in putting the needs of my clients 1st! Focusing on evidenced based treatments; my advanced trainings have equipped me to use therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, child-parent psychotherapy and many more. I have an extensive background in treating mood disorders, behavioral modifications, emotional dysregulation,PTSD and other disturbances. I tailor my practice to uphold the confidentiality of my clients and I strive to give my clients the best service possible!!!!
(773) 657-6052 View (773) 657-6052
Photo of Tracey Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LPC
Tracey Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LPC
2 Endorsed
South Holland, IL 60473
Knowledge of self is the core of complete education. My role of facilitator is to recognize and identify your "gifts" (interests, talents, motivations etc.) so that you can apply your knowledge of self on your life journey. I am culturally sensitive and have worked with diverse populations across various ages, cultural groups and orientations. I have utilized psychotherapy for 10+ years as a means to reduce/eliminate numerous disorders (such as Depression, Anxiety, etc.). Rasidi Consulting Associates believes in connecting community, family, and self. Rasidi works holistically and collaboratively to treat the whole person.
Knowledge of self is the core of complete education. My role of facilitator is to recognize and identify your "gifts" (interests, talents, motivations etc.) so that you can apply your knowledge of self on your life journey. I am culturally sensitive and have worked with diverse populations across various ages, cultural groups and orientations. I have utilized psychotherapy for 10+ years as a means to reduce/eliminate numerous disorders (such as Depression, Anxiety, etc.). Rasidi Consulting Associates believes in connecting community, family, and self. Rasidi works holistically and collaboratively to treat the whole person.
(708) 315-2311 View (708) 315-2311
Photo of Lauren Joy Herrera - Lauren Joy Herrera, Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Lauren Joy Herrera
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
South Holland, IL 60473
I work with therapists, healing practitioners, and mentors who are ready to deepen their own healing. At this time, I offer psychospiritual processes that go directly to the root of the issue. You’ll come to each session with a single goal or problem, and together, we’ll dissolve the negative charge around it—freeing you from its hold. These guided visualizations and meditations have an exceptionally high success rate, facilitating deep Self Integration and expanded consciousness. Through images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations, we navigate past, present, and future layers of your experience. Love will guide your life.
I work with therapists, healing practitioners, and mentors who are ready to deepen their own healing. At this time, I offer psychospiritual processes that go directly to the root of the issue. You’ll come to each session with a single goal or problem, and together, we’ll dissolve the negative charge around it—freeing you from its hold. These guided visualizations and meditations have an exceptionally high success rate, facilitating deep Self Integration and expanded consciousness. Through images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations, we navigate past, present, and future layers of your experience. Love will guide your life.
(206) 339-3483 View (206) 339-3483
Photo of LaDonna V Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
LaDonna V Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
South Holland, IL 60473
Oftentimes, reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 9 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals!
Oftentimes, reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 9 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals!
(773) 923-1095 View (773) 923-1095
Photo of Aisha M Sanders, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Aisha M Sanders
Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
"I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it" ~ Charles Swindol. Through a collaborative therapeutic experience, you will receive the tools needed to not only live life, but to enjoy it!
"I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it" ~ Charles Swindol. Through a collaborative therapeutic experience, you will receive the tools needed to not only live life, but to enjoy it!
(708) 627-9107 View (708) 627-9107
Photo of Kim Powell, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Kim Powell
Counselor, MA, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Let's give you the healing you deserve by challenging unhealthy thought patterns and beliefs, discovering who YOU are and what you really want, and learning how to set boundaries and improve relationships. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to walking alongside clients on their journey towards growth. My goal is to create an emotionally safe and empowering environment where all feelings are welcomed and explored without judgment. I focus on individual therapy, addressing relational and childhood trauma, life transitions (such as parenting, divorce, job changes), and grief.
Let's give you the healing you deserve by challenging unhealthy thought patterns and beliefs, discovering who YOU are and what you really want, and learning how to set boundaries and improve relationships. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to walking alongside clients on their journey towards growth. My goal is to create an emotionally safe and empowering environment where all feelings are welcomed and explored without judgment. I focus on individual therapy, addressing relational and childhood trauma, life transitions (such as parenting, divorce, job changes), and grief.
(312) 561-3796 View (312) 561-3796
Photo of Tanisha Horne, Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Tanisha Horne
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Serves Area
Are you feeling a lack of joy and passion in your life? Are you a woman struggling with anxiety, or a couple seeking to improve communication? Living intentionally—prioritizing what truly matters to you—can be challenging. Too often, despite our best efforts, our struggles persist, leaving us overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed. We can feel trapped, as if suffocated by the demands of daily life, without the time, clarity, or freedom to think and act with purpose. My passion lies in guiding individuals toward finding true freedom through a deeper connection with God and achieving a balanced life.
Are you feeling a lack of joy and passion in your life? Are you a woman struggling with anxiety, or a couple seeking to improve communication? Living intentionally—prioritizing what truly matters to you—can be challenging. Too often, despite our best efforts, our struggles persist, leaving us overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed. We can feel trapped, as if suffocated by the demands of daily life, without the time, clarity, or freedom to think and act with purpose. My passion lies in guiding individuals toward finding true freedom through a deeper connection with God and achieving a balanced life.
(312) 416-6174 x700 View (312) 416-6174 x700
Photo of Felicia I Williams, MA, NCC, LCPC
Felicia I Williams
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes life's matters can be really overwhelming and you feel alone or unable to make it through. However, with help and support from a neutral source your healing can begin. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in social services working with children and families. I began my career as a case worker in 1994 and decided to pursue a Masters in Counseling in 2004. Since 2008 I have been providing individual, couples and family therapy to those in need.
Sometimes life's matters can be really overwhelming and you feel alone or unable to make it through. However, with help and support from a neutral source your healing can begin. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in social services working with children and families. I began my career as a case worker in 1994 and decided to pursue a Masters in Counseling in 2004. Since 2008 I have been providing individual, couples and family therapy to those in need.
(708) 689-4685 View (708) 689-4685
Photo of Shannon Carr, MA
Shannon Carr
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My experience includes working with clients on various life challenges, such as managing stress, anxiety, depression, and overcoming the effects of abuse on their relationships. Drawing from my own personal experiences with trauma, I understand the importance of healthy coping mechanisms and have seen firsthand the transformative impact they can have on one's life. In my practice, I use a Person-Centered approach that emphasizes empathy and empowerment, encouraging you to take an active role in the therapeutic process.
My experience includes working with clients on various life challenges, such as managing stress, anxiety, depression, and overcoming the effects of abuse on their relationships. Drawing from my own personal experiences with trauma, I understand the importance of healthy coping mechanisms and have seen firsthand the transformative impact they can have on one's life. In my practice, I use a Person-Centered approach that emphasizes empathy and empowerment, encouraging you to take an active role in the therapeutic process.
(773) 747-3954 View (773) 747-3954
Photo of Erika Lewis, Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Erika Lewis
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Serves Area
The goal of Heal Thyself Counseling Services is to create a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their own emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential by meeting each client where they are most comfortable - at their home, in office, or online. I have professionally served individuals, families, and children for more than 6 years. Using cognitive therapy techniques and psycho-education as the backbone for treatment planning, I can help you develop a clear plan for improving your life and important life relationships.
The goal of Heal Thyself Counseling Services is to create a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their own emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential by meeting each client where they are most comfortable - at their home, in office, or online. I have professionally served individuals, families, and children for more than 6 years. Using cognitive therapy techniques and psycho-education as the backbone for treatment planning, I can help you develop a clear plan for improving your life and important life relationships.
(708) 816-5365 View (708) 816-5365
Photo of Karen McCurtis Witherspoon, Psychologist, PhD
Karen McCurtis Witherspoon
Psychologist, PhD
12 Endorsed
Serves Area
H.E.L.P.'s managing owner and Chief Clinical Officer is Dr. Karen McCurtis Witherspoon, a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois who has thousands of clinical hours performing assessments with children and adults for the past decade. Her clinical practice focuses on psychological testing, parenting evaluations, and psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults. The H.E.L.P. LLC consulting team is a multidisciplinary one: there are psychologists, clinical counselors, substance abuse counselors, social workers, educators and a naturopath on the team. Appointments are available in the Hyde Park Office in Chicago, or the suburban office in South Holland, IL.
H.E.L.P.'s managing owner and Chief Clinical Officer is Dr. Karen McCurtis Witherspoon, a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois who has thousands of clinical hours performing assessments with children and adults for the past decade. Her clinical practice focuses on psychological testing, parenting evaluations, and psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults. The H.E.L.P. LLC consulting team is a multidisciplinary one: there are psychologists, clinical counselors, substance abuse counselors, social workers, educators and a naturopath on the team. Appointments are available in the Hyde Park Office in Chicago, or the suburban office in South Holland, IL.
(773) 840-0855 View (773) 840-0855
Photo of Brittany Lampkin - K&B Wellness, Counselor, LCPC
K&B Wellness
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to K&B Wellness — a compassionate and inclusive mental health practice committed to supporting individuals across the lifespan. We specialize in helping children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly navigate life’s challenges with care, insight, and evidence-based approaches.
Welcome to K&B Wellness — a compassionate and inclusive mental health practice committed to supporting individuals across the lifespan. We specialize in helping children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly navigate life’s challenges with care, insight, and evidence-based approaches.
(708) 809-2763 View (708) 809-2763
Photo of Alyssa Lorenzo, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alyssa Lorenzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Trauma, grief, and disconnection may shape us, but they don’t define us. We can free ourselves from the shame and guilt we’ve inherited by asking for and accepting care from our community, because healing happens when we are in connection with others. I partner with folks, exploring how past experiences impact their well-being and relationship dynamics to find their bespoke path toward healing. Together, we’ll untangle patterns rooted in pain, rebuild trust, and foster self-compassion. Therapy is a space to unburden yourself and create a life of deeper meaning and connection. Let’s begin your healing journey together.
Trauma, grief, and disconnection may shape us, but they don’t define us. We can free ourselves from the shame and guilt we’ve inherited by asking for and accepting care from our community, because healing happens when we are in connection with others. I partner with folks, exploring how past experiences impact their well-being and relationship dynamics to find their bespoke path toward healing. Together, we’ll untangle patterns rooted in pain, rebuild trust, and foster self-compassion. Therapy is a space to unburden yourself and create a life of deeper meaning and connection. Let’s begin your healing journey together.
(872) 210-5985 View (872) 210-5985
Photo of Meghann Barnes, Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA
Meghann Barnes
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Between the pressures of social media, constant distractions, and the growing sense of disconnection in our relationships, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what brings you peace. If you’ve been feeling lost, uncertain, or simply not like yourself, you’re not alone. Therapy can be a space to slow down, breathe, and start finding your way back to balance. Together, we’ll work at your pace to navigate life's mental, emotional and physical obstacles to help you feel more grounded, more confident, and more connected to the person you want to be.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Between the pressures of social media, constant distractions, and the growing sense of disconnection in our relationships, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what brings you peace. If you’ve been feeling lost, uncertain, or simply not like yourself, you’re not alone. Therapy can be a space to slow down, breathe, and start finding your way back to balance. Together, we’ll work at your pace to navigate life's mental, emotional and physical obstacles to help you feel more grounded, more confident, and more connected to the person you want to be.
(708) 809-2533 View (708) 809-2533
Photo of Jessica Kuhnen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Jessica Kuhnen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Jessica Kuhnen, LCSW. Masters awarded from University of Chicago. Owner of Hyde Park Center for Healing LLC. I treat clients struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, and or PTSD/complex trauma. If you have experienced one very traumatic event or several over the span of your lifetime-managing your emotions, daily life tasks and or maintaining relationships can feel really hard.
My name is Jessica Kuhnen, LCSW. Masters awarded from University of Chicago. Owner of Hyde Park Center for Healing LLC. I treat clients struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, and or PTSD/complex trauma. If you have experienced one very traumatic event or several over the span of your lifetime-managing your emotions, daily life tasks and or maintaining relationships can feel really hard.
(773) 570-2572 View (773) 570-2572
Photo of Dr. Calvin Young, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, SAP, C-SOTP, C-DBT
Dr. Calvin Young
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, SAP, C-SOTP, C-DBT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Come for tele-mental health care that is compassionate, collaborative, high quality, and irreverently humorous. Anchored by over two decades of experiences as an Integrative psychotherapist, forensic clinician, addictionologist, lecturer, lifelong martial artist and U.S. military veteran. I provide person-centered online psychotherapeutic care using traditional approaches, such as cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies, motivational interviewing, person-centeredness and ACT, guided by psychometrics (neuropsychology), nutritional psychology, complementary and alternative medicine approaches such as neurofeedback.
Come for tele-mental health care that is compassionate, collaborative, high quality, and irreverently humorous. Anchored by over two decades of experiences as an Integrative psychotherapist, forensic clinician, addictionologist, lecturer, lifelong martial artist and U.S. military veteran. I provide person-centered online psychotherapeutic care using traditional approaches, such as cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies, motivational interviewing, person-centeredness and ACT, guided by psychometrics (neuropsychology), nutritional psychology, complementary and alternative medicine approaches such as neurofeedback.
(773) 687-5071 View (773) 687-5071

See more therapy options for 60473

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 60473

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 60473 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
76% Coping Skills
66% Family Conflict
63% Peer Relationships

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 60473 see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 60473?

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.