Therapists in 66223

Photo of Lauren Plummer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MTS, MA, LMFT
Lauren Plummer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MTS, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66223
Life is complicated, and none of us thrive in isolation. We all need connection and support from others in order to grow and live fully into our lives. I am driven by curiosity, and I love to help people locate and tell their stories within the larger frames of family, community, and social systems. I’m best suited to work with clients who are sifting through family, parenting, and relationship issues, grief and transitions, traumas, identity and spirituality questions, and issues with anxiety and depression.
Life is complicated, and none of us thrive in isolation. We all need connection and support from others in order to grow and live fully into our lives. I am driven by curiosity, and I love to help people locate and tell their stories within the larger frames of family, community, and social systems. I’m best suited to work with clients who are sifting through family, parenting, and relationship issues, grief and transitions, traumas, identity and spirituality questions, and issues with anxiety and depression.
(913) 733-0760 View (913) 733-0760
Photo of Tyron Mallard, Counselor, LCPC, LMSW
Tyron Mallard
Counselor, LCPC, LMSW
Overland Park, KS 66223
I am a firm believer that the only thing that separates a counselor/therapist from the client is a current need. With this belief, I strive to help clients through current life struggles in a non-judgmental environment. My work is informed through collaboration with clients, education, experience, and empathy. As a professional counselor and social worker, my comprehensive approach to therapy enables clients to identify and change the patterns that often create barriers to emotional, social, educational, and occupational growth.
I am a firm believer that the only thing that separates a counselor/therapist from the client is a current need. With this belief, I strive to help clients through current life struggles in a non-judgmental environment. My work is informed through collaboration with clients, education, experience, and empathy. As a professional counselor and social worker, my comprehensive approach to therapy enables clients to identify and change the patterns that often create barriers to emotional, social, educational, and occupational growth.
(913) 946-7611 View (913) 946-7611
Photo of Elena Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTt
Elena Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTt
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66223
I aim to empower all clients on their journey to wholeness. I provide a safe space for personal exploration and growth. I help clients address their individual issues within the context of their relationships, fostering self-awareness and emotional healing. I facilitate partners to strengthen bonds, improve communication, and resolve conflicts constructively. I guide couples in rebuilding trust, enhancing intimacy, and fostering secure relationships. I assist families to work through challenges and nurture genuine bonds. I strive to cultivate trust, understanding, compassion, and secure connections within the family unit.
I aim to empower all clients on their journey to wholeness. I provide a safe space for personal exploration and growth. I help clients address their individual issues within the context of their relationships, fostering self-awareness and emotional healing. I facilitate partners to strengthen bonds, improve communication, and resolve conflicts constructively. I guide couples in rebuilding trust, enhancing intimacy, and fostering secure relationships. I assist families to work through challenges and nurture genuine bonds. I strive to cultivate trust, understanding, compassion, and secure connections within the family unit.
(913) 423-3132 View (913) 423-3132
Photo of Marie Schulte - Psychological Therapy Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Psychological Therapy Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Overland Park, KS 66223
Suffering from trauma? Narcissist abuse? Feeling stuck and not sure what to do? Overwhelmed and it's too much to work through? You know you want to move forward and let the past go. You can work out the old out dated version of yourself and now live a life of fulfillment, and replacing the dysfunctional patterns of behavior with healthier patterns of being. I am here for you, to take care of you and listen. Are you not having your needs met and not sure how to have your needs taken care of ? Needing to learn skills of anger management or emotional regulation skills?
Suffering from trauma? Narcissist abuse? Feeling stuck and not sure what to do? Overwhelmed and it's too much to work through? You know you want to move forward and let the past go. You can work out the old out dated version of yourself and now live a life of fulfillment, and replacing the dysfunctional patterns of behavior with healthier patterns of being. I am here for you, to take care of you and listen. Are you not having your needs met and not sure how to have your needs taken care of ? Needing to learn skills of anger management or emotional regulation skills?
(913) 374-6926 View (913) 374-6926
Photo of Peyton Milstead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LISW, MS
Peyton Milstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LISW, MS
Overland Park, KS 66223
Hello! My ideal client is a child, teen, or young adult (ages 5-30) navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, self-esteem issues, behavioral challenges, or life transitions. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, seeking a safe space to process emotions and build resilience. Parents may want support for family dynamics or behavioral concerns. Their goals include finding confidence, emotional stability, and tools to thrive, driven by a desire for personal growth and stronger relationships.
Hello! My ideal client is a child, teen, or young adult (ages 5-30) navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, self-esteem issues, behavioral challenges, or life transitions. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, seeking a safe space to process emotions and build resilience. Parents may want support for family dynamics or behavioral concerns. Their goals include finding confidence, emotional stability, and tools to thrive, driven by a desire for personal growth and stronger relationships.
(913) 358-7923 View (913) 358-7923
Photo of Justin Der, Counselor, LCPC, MA, M Div
Justin Der
Counselor, LCPC, MA, M Div
Overland Park, KS 66223
Are you a man whose wife has said, “I don’t feel safe around you,” and you’re not sure why—or what to do about it? You may lead well at work—managing people, handling pressure—but at home, conversations escalate, shut down, or go nowhere. Or maybe you’re a couple stuck in the same frustrating patterns. I help men, couples, and families navigate difficult conversations, understand each other, and move forward with clarity—especially when communication breaks down, emotions run high, or relationships feel stuck or strained.
Are you a man whose wife has said, “I don’t feel safe around you,” and you’re not sure why—or what to do about it? You may lead well at work—managing people, handling pressure—but at home, conversations escalate, shut down, or go nowhere. Or maybe you’re a couple stuck in the same frustrating patterns. I help men, couples, and families navigate difficult conversations, understand each other, and move forward with clarity—especially when communication breaks down, emotions run high, or relationships feel stuck or strained.
(913) 347-8051 View (913) 347-8051
Photo of Patricia Lord, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S, RPT-S
Patricia Lord
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S, RPT-S
Overland Park, KS 66223
I work with children, teens and families, also adults (individually and as a couple) to identify areas of personal and relational difficulty. My goal being to help each client to improve communication and provide a safe place to learn effective skills to manage their stresses, feelings and behaviors. Together, finding ways to achieve clarity, mindfulness and peace within themselves and their relationships.
I work with children, teens and families, also adults (individually and as a couple) to identify areas of personal and relational difficulty. My goal being to help each client to improve communication and provide a safe place to learn effective skills to manage their stresses, feelings and behaviors. Together, finding ways to achieve clarity, mindfulness and peace within themselves and their relationships.
(913) 325-4616 View (913) 325-4616
Photo of Keisha Lovett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PLPC
Keisha Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PLPC
Overland Park, KS 66223
No one truly prepares you for the complexities of life. Sometimes it can all be too much to bear. You’ve tried doing it alone, now let’s try something different. I’m passionate about creating a safe, empowering space for women and couples to heal, grow, and reconnect. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, motherhood challenges, or relationship issues, I’ll honor your story and walk beside you with warmth and respect. My work embraces all backgrounds and identities. Together, we’ll find clarity amid life’s chaos, restore connection, and rediscover hope.
No one truly prepares you for the complexities of life. Sometimes it can all be too much to bear. You’ve tried doing it alone, now let’s try something different. I’m passionate about creating a safe, empowering space for women and couples to heal, grow, and reconnect. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, motherhood challenges, or relationship issues, I’ll honor your story and walk beside you with warmth and respect. My work embraces all backgrounds and identities. Together, we’ll find clarity amid life’s chaos, restore connection, and rediscover hope.
(913) 675-9780 View (913) 675-9780
Photo of Kelly George, Counselor, LCPC
Kelly George
Counselor, LCPC
Overland Park, KS 66223
Beginning with a deep respect for all people navigating today's world, I work with individuals, couples, and families from teen to golden years. By utilizing current evidence-based practices, I'll share the art and science of incorporating a curious, non-judgmental approach to understanding yourself and others. My approach incorporates ERP, DBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused, and trauma-informed care to help clients move to a state of what I call, "enthusiastic peacefulness".
Beginning with a deep respect for all people navigating today's world, I work with individuals, couples, and families from teen to golden years. By utilizing current evidence-based practices, I'll share the art and science of incorporating a curious, non-judgmental approach to understanding yourself and others. My approach incorporates ERP, DBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused, and trauma-informed care to help clients move to a state of what I call, "enthusiastic peacefulness".
(913) 392-5912 View (913) 392-5912
Photo of Michael Roberson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Michael Roberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66223
Every day, you put on a brave face, smiling through the struggles, hoping to keep it all together. When people ask how you’re doing, you give the usual response: “I’m fine, thanks.” But deep down, you wonder—does anyone truly see me? Does anyone care about the pain I carry? I want you to know that you are seen, and you are not alone. No matter what you're going through, there is hope. The hurt, the weight, the feelings of being stuck—you don’t have to carry them forever. Healing is possible, and I would be honored to walk alongside you on this journey.
Every day, you put on a brave face, smiling through the struggles, hoping to keep it all together. When people ask how you’re doing, you give the usual response: “I’m fine, thanks.” But deep down, you wonder—does anyone truly see me? Does anyone care about the pain I carry? I want you to know that you are seen, and you are not alone. No matter what you're going through, there is hope. The hurt, the weight, the feelings of being stuck—you don’t have to carry them forever. Healing is possible, and I would be honored to walk alongside you on this journey.
(913) 562-6172 View (913) 562-6172
Photo of Mario Bailey, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Mario Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Overland Park, KS 66223
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, burnout, or major life transitions. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can slow down, process what’s happening, and begin to feel more grounded and empowered. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build practical tools, and create meaningful change that feels sustainable in your daily life.
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, burnout, or major life transitions. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can slow down, process what’s happening, and begin to feel more grounded and empowered. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build practical tools, and create meaningful change that feels sustainable in your daily life.
(913) 395-9536 View (913) 395-9536
Photo of Rachel Moran-Brown, Counselor, LMHC
Rachel Moran-Brown
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there! I’m glad you’re here. I view therapy as a beautiful way to help learn and unlearn things about ourselves, a way to challenge patterns that no longer serve us and a place to feel safe, cared for and supported. I have worked with kids, college students, older adults and everyone is unique and special. I am here to walk the journey with you and help you find the way to more peace, more joy, more acceptance and anything else you may be looking for in therapy.
Hi there! I’m glad you’re here. I view therapy as a beautiful way to help learn and unlearn things about ourselves, a way to challenge patterns that no longer serve us and a place to feel safe, cared for and supported. I have worked with kids, college students, older adults and everyone is unique and special. I am here to walk the journey with you and help you find the way to more peace, more joy, more acceptance and anything else you may be looking for in therapy.
(904) 780-9358 View (904) 780-9358
Photo of Kelly Trowbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSCSW, LCSW
Kelly Trowbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSCSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When life shifts, it can be disorienting. You might be navigating the demands of middle or older age, the impact of a medical diagnosis, the quiet fatigue of caregiving, or the layered grief of watching someone change due to illness or dementia. These experiences can raise deep questions about identity, connection, and what matters most. Even familiar roles—partner, parent, professional—can feel different. You may be finding your way through changes you didn’t choose, feeling isolated or overwhelmed, and asking: Who am I now? How do I live well with what is happening? Where do I go from here? What matters most?
When life shifts, it can be disorienting. You might be navigating the demands of middle or older age, the impact of a medical diagnosis, the quiet fatigue of caregiving, or the layered grief of watching someone change due to illness or dementia. These experiences can raise deep questions about identity, connection, and what matters most. Even familiar roles—partner, parent, professional—can feel different. You may be finding your way through changes you didn’t choose, feeling isolated or overwhelmed, and asking: Who am I now? How do I live well with what is happening? Where do I go from here? What matters most?
(913) 937-5355 View (913) 937-5355
Photo of Sylvia Ackroyd-Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sylvia Ackroyd-Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
If you’ve been wondering whether your child may need extra support, you’re not alone. Many parents have a sense that their child could benefit from therapy, but hesitate to reach out because they worry their child will feel singled out or “like a problem.” I work with children, teens, young adults, and families navigating anxiety, emotional outbursts, behavioral challenges, school stress, trauma, family transitions, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to help children feel safe and understood while also helping parents feel more supported and less alone in the process.
If you’ve been wondering whether your child may need extra support, you’re not alone. Many parents have a sense that their child could benefit from therapy, but hesitate to reach out because they worry their child will feel singled out or “like a problem.” I work with children, teens, young adults, and families navigating anxiety, emotional outbursts, behavioral challenges, school stress, trauma, family transitions, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to help children feel safe and understood while also helping parents feel more supported and less alone in the process.
(913) 380-4261 View (913) 380-4261
Photo of Susan Hoover, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Susan Hoover
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you seeking support in your relationships? Maybe your child is struggling and the family dynamics are suffering. Everyone has a common theme of wanting to be seen and heard as the unique and amazing individuals they are. If you struggle in their family relationships, often feeling like you have no voice or are not allowed to feel important or be yourself, I can support you in growing and improving your life. My passion is helping children, teens, and families learn healthy and effective ways to communicate feelings. I believe in utilizing a trauma-informed lens and that fostering a safe space is foundational to healing.
Are you seeking support in your relationships? Maybe your child is struggling and the family dynamics are suffering. Everyone has a common theme of wanting to be seen and heard as the unique and amazing individuals they are. If you struggle in their family relationships, often feeling like you have no voice or are not allowed to feel important or be yourself, I can support you in growing and improving your life. My passion is helping children, teens, and families learn healthy and effective ways to communicate feelings. I believe in utilizing a trauma-informed lens and that fostering a safe space is foundational to healing.
(913) 398-5807 View (913) 398-5807
Photo of Susana Maria Ortiz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Susana Maria Ortiz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
You feel stuck—overwhelmed by anxiety, past trauma, or patterns in relationships that no longer serve you. You want to break free, heal old wounds, and regain control over your life. Your goals include building emotional resilience, improving relationships, and finding a sense of peace and purpose. You’re ready to make meaningful changes and need a safe, supportive space to begin that journey. Or, you are worried about your child—maybe they’re struggling with big emotions, behavioral challenges, or the effects of a difficult life event. You want them to feel understood, supported, and equipped to thrive.
You feel stuck—overwhelmed by anxiety, past trauma, or patterns in relationships that no longer serve you. You want to break free, heal old wounds, and regain control over your life. Your goals include building emotional resilience, improving relationships, and finding a sense of peace and purpose. You’re ready to make meaningful changes and need a safe, supportive space to begin that journey. Or, you are worried about your child—maybe they’re struggling with big emotions, behavioral challenges, or the effects of a difficult life event. You want them to feel understood, supported, and equipped to thrive.
(785) 665-2143 View (785) 665-2143
Photo of Tanya R Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, CCTP
Tanya R Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am honored to have had the privilege of working with many amazing people over the past 25+ years. I specialize in working with trauma and abuse, PTSD, veterans, and survivors of sex trafficking. I also work with Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, OCD, and Adjustment disorders. I use a variety of treatment modalities with a psychodynamic approach including EMDR, ACT, CF-CBT; most importantly is the relationship and trust felt between the client and myself. I believe in the resiliency of the mind, body, spirit, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to walk beside those while they find their way to peace and happiness.
I am honored to have had the privilege of working with many amazing people over the past 25+ years. I specialize in working with trauma and abuse, PTSD, veterans, and survivors of sex trafficking. I also work with Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, OCD, and Adjustment disorders. I use a variety of treatment modalities with a psychodynamic approach including EMDR, ACT, CF-CBT; most importantly is the relationship and trust felt between the client and myself. I believe in the resiliency of the mind, body, spirit, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to walk beside those while they find their way to peace and happiness.
(913) 933-0455 View (913) 933-0455
Photo of Emily Potter, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LLC
Emily Potter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LLC
Serves Area
Are you seeking change in your life? Do you desire something different for yourself and would like help on that journey? If so, I would be honored to hear from you! I love what I do and I strive to offer a comfortable, compassionate and welcoming atmosphere for my clients as we work together to create change.
Are you seeking change in your life? Do you desire something different for yourself and would like help on that journey? If so, I would be honored to hear from you! I love what I do and I strive to offer a comfortable, compassionate and welcoming atmosphere for my clients as we work together to create change.
(913) 859-9993 View (913) 859-9993
Photo of Rachel Matlack, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, NCC
Rachel Matlack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, NCC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
None of us are able to escape transition. Our relationships change, our families change, our environments change, and our bodies change. Whether the change we experience is welcome, abrupt, devastating, or a mix of many feelings, we must leave the familiar when it comes. Growth happens when we walk forward and integrate our new awareness and adapt to the new era that we are entering. Sometimes this growth needs more support than we anticipate. Flourishing is possible, but we can feel stuck in our journey to get to it.
None of us are able to escape transition. Our relationships change, our families change, our environments change, and our bodies change. Whether the change we experience is welcome, abrupt, devastating, or a mix of many feelings, we must leave the familiar when it comes. Growth happens when we walk forward and integrate our new awareness and adapt to the new era that we are entering. Sometimes this growth needs more support than we anticipate. Flourishing is possible, but we can feel stuck in our journey to get to it.
(913) 423-8698 View (913) 423-8698
Photo of Taylor Muller, Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Taylor Muller
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients to identify strengths, set meaningful goals, and develop practical skills that promote long-term emotional well-being. My journey as a counselor continues to be guided by a passion for learning, ethical practice, and a genuine commitment to helping clients move toward greater clarity, resilience, and fulfillment in their lives.
I work with clients to identify strengths, set meaningful goals, and develop practical skills that promote long-term emotional well-being. My journey as a counselor continues to be guided by a passion for learning, ethical practice, and a genuine commitment to helping clients move toward greater clarity, resilience, and fulfillment in their lives.
(816) 693-6631 View (816) 693-6631

See more therapy options for 66223

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 66223

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 66223 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
96% Social Anxiety
96% Health Anxiety
96% Driving Anxiety
93% Depression
86% Relationship Issues
84% Relationship Anxiety

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
55% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 66223 see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 66223?

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.