Therapists in 91950

Photo of Ky Washington, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, ICADC, SAP
Ky Washington
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, ICADC, SAP
National City, CA 91950
I have been working in the field of Chemical dependency for over 33 years. I am DOT certified as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). We work to get employees back to their employment as quickly as possible. I also have reciprocity to work with individuals who have received DUI/DWI violations. We offer substance abuse evaluations, alcohol related evaluations, court ordered substance abuse/substance dependency and referrals resources.
I have been working in the field of Chemical dependency for over 33 years. I am DOT certified as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). We work to get employees back to their employment as quickly as possible. I also have reciprocity to work with individuals who have received DUI/DWI violations. We offer substance abuse evaluations, alcohol related evaluations, court ordered substance abuse/substance dependency and referrals resources.
(619) 731-0125 View (619) 731-0125
Photo of Ileana Gallegos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ileana Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
National City, CA 91950
My ideal client struggles with repeating patterns that affect their relationships, work, or well-being. They may face anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem and seek support to break free from these challenges. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to heal, gain self-awareness, and develop practical strategies. Their goals include feeling more confident, balanced, and capable of handling life’s challenges. They want lasting change, believing that with the right support, they can create a more fulfilling, empowered life.
My ideal client struggles with repeating patterns that affect their relationships, work, or well-being. They may face anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem and seek support to break free from these challenges. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to heal, gain self-awareness, and develop practical strategies. Their goals include feeling more confident, balanced, and capable of handling life’s challenges. They want lasting change, believing that with the right support, they can create a more fulfilling, empowered life.
(909) 325-6197 View (909) 325-6197
Photo of Connie Strohbehn, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Connie Strohbehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I have enjoyed over 30 years of clinical work in private practice. People refer to me as competent, caring and down to earth. I am collaborative in my process, guiding people on their path of growth and change, always with respect for their courage and trust. I see individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families over a wide range of treatment issues with a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. I welcome challenge and believe in the strength of every individual.
I have enjoyed over 30 years of clinical work in private practice. People refer to me as competent, caring and down to earth. I am collaborative in my process, guiding people on their path of growth and change, always with respect for their courage and trust. I see individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families over a wide range of treatment issues with a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. I welcome challenge and believe in the strength of every individual.
(619) 928-9213 View (619) 928-9213
Photo of Theresa Mary Comito, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Theresa Mary Comito
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I will provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgmental space for you to explore problematic relationship styles, trauma, abuse, and loss in order to heal the past and promote a feeling of greater personal freedom. My therapeutic approach emphasizes "here and now" relationships, embracing your strengths and getting in touch with mind, body and spirit.
I will provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgmental space for you to explore problematic relationship styles, trauma, abuse, and loss in order to heal the past and promote a feeling of greater personal freedom. My therapeutic approach emphasizes "here and now" relationships, embracing your strengths and getting in touch with mind, body and spirit.
(619) 346-7481 View (619) 346-7481
Photo of Cory Anderson - Integrity Counseling Group, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Integrity Counseling Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you tired of repeating the same cycle, whether it’s addiction, depression, anxiety, or infidelity? Our skilled and compassionate therapists are here to help you finally break free, so you can live fully and joyfully.
Are you tired of repeating the same cycle, whether it’s addiction, depression, anxiety, or infidelity? Our skilled and compassionate therapists are here to help you finally break free, so you can live fully and joyfully.
(619) 378-3988 View (619) 378-3988
Photo of Helen Hayes Moses - Agape Counseling Center, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Agape Counseling Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
We all struggle with managing our lives during these difficult times. I am committed to providing the tools to increase and maintain functioning. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction? Is there unresolved trauma, grief, or a sense of not belonging? Do you need an empathetic ear to verbalize your feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
We all struggle with managing our lives during these difficult times. I am committed to providing the tools to increase and maintain functioning. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction? Is there unresolved trauma, grief, or a sense of not belonging? Do you need an empathetic ear to verbalize your feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
(619) 367-0918 View (619) 367-0918
Photo of Nancy Deutsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nancy Deutsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Life can be challenging and we all have experienced loss, disappointments and trauma, both large and small. These may have caused us to feel depressed or anxious or lead to feeling of inadequacy. In order to overcome these self- defeating, life - limiting thoughts and feelings, and to grow emotionally, we all need a guiding hand to teach us how to heal and grow. My goal is to provide you with that guiding hand within a safe, respectful and nurturing environment, where you are free to express your feelings
Life can be challenging and we all have experienced loss, disappointments and trauma, both large and small. These may have caused us to feel depressed or anxious or lead to feeling of inadequacy. In order to overcome these self- defeating, life - limiting thoughts and feelings, and to grow emotionally, we all need a guiding hand to teach us how to heal and grow. My goal is to provide you with that guiding hand within a safe, respectful and nurturing environment, where you are free to express your feelings
(619) 295-1175 View (619) 295-1175
Photo of Joseph Jeffers - Joseph Jeffers MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Joseph Jeffers MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Serves Area
I understand therapy as a compassionate journey of self-discovery. I believe we have the resources within ourselves to develop happy and meaningful lives and relationships. However, sometimes we get stuck, sidetracked, or distracted by the complex world around us. Past traumas or current stressors put up roadblocks. Partnering with a therapist who is a good fit is one way to navigate challenging times. I can help you with * Personal Growth * Life Transitions * Managing Chronic Illness * Issues of Grief and Loss * LGBT Issues * Spiritual Growth * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Anger Management * Strengthening Relationships * Substance Abuse * Eating Disorders
I understand therapy as a compassionate journey of self-discovery. I believe we have the resources within ourselves to develop happy and meaningful lives and relationships. However, sometimes we get stuck, sidetracked, or distracted by the complex world around us. Past traumas or current stressors put up roadblocks. Partnering with a therapist who is a good fit is one way to navigate challenging times. I can help you with * Personal Growth * Life Transitions * Managing Chronic Illness * Issues of Grief and Loss * LGBT Issues * Spiritual Growth * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Anger Management * Strengthening Relationships * Substance Abuse * Eating Disorders
(619) 987-0735 View (619) 987-0735
Photo of Diego Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Diego Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello and thank you for the opportunity to offer my counseling services to you. My therapeutic style is collaborative and I invite those who are motivated to seek change including those from the LGBTQIA community, youth in transition (ages 16-24), and families in transition due to divorce, death, and re-marriage to come and speak with me. My specialty is couples counseling. Whether you are a monogamous couple or you are in a non-monogamous/polyamorous relationship, I provide space for couples who want to define who they are and what their relationship means to them now and moving forward. I believe each relationship is unique and th
Hello and thank you for the opportunity to offer my counseling services to you. My therapeutic style is collaborative and I invite those who are motivated to seek change including those from the LGBTQIA community, youth in transition (ages 16-24), and families in transition due to divorce, death, and re-marriage to come and speak with me. My specialty is couples counseling. Whether you are a monogamous couple or you are in a non-monogamous/polyamorous relationship, I provide space for couples who want to define who they are and what their relationship means to them now and moving forward. I believe each relationship is unique and th
(619) 304-3698 View (619) 304-3698
Photo of Keina Lazare - Haven for Change , Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Haven for Change
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck? If stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges are weighing on you, I can help. Together, we’ll explore what's holding you back, build coping skills, and create a path forward. You deserve to feel in control, find peace, and rediscover balance. If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing and growth, let’s work together to make it happen.
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck? If stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges are weighing on you, I can help. Together, we’ll explore what's holding you back, build coping skills, and create a path forward. You deserve to feel in control, find peace, and rediscover balance. If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing and growth, let’s work together to make it happen.
(760) 573-2573 View (760) 573-2573
Photo of Dennis Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Dennis Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Serves Area
If you’re reading this, you’re having some sort of trouble. I help good people get through tough times. There are many ways to do counseling. You can think of me as a life coach who offers principles to help you solve personal and relational problems. And /or, I can be your therapist to help you process a history of hurts and help you get on with your life. I work with couples and individuals (children, teens and adults) in an atmosphere that is casual and relaxed. I use language and tools you can use now. No psychobabble. If we connect we're likely to do some good work. So I'm ready when you are.
If you’re reading this, you’re having some sort of trouble. I help good people get through tough times. There are many ways to do counseling. You can think of me as a life coach who offers principles to help you solve personal and relational problems. And /or, I can be your therapist to help you process a history of hurts and help you get on with your life. I work with couples and individuals (children, teens and adults) in an atmosphere that is casual and relaxed. I use language and tools you can use now. No psychobabble. If we connect we're likely to do some good work. So I'm ready when you are.
(858) 331-1722 View (858) 331-1722
Photo of Carolina Aguilar, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Carolina Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Serves Area
My ideal client is an adolescent (12+) or adult seeking support for PTSD, trauma, anxiety, or depression. They may feel overwhelmed or stuck and are ready to actively engage in therapy and practice skills outside of sessions. They want to better understand themselves, build effective coping tools, and feel more grounded and empowered in their daily lives. I work best with individuals who are motivated for change and value an inclusive, supportive, and affirming therapeutic space.
My ideal client is an adolescent (12+) or adult seeking support for PTSD, trauma, anxiety, or depression. They may feel overwhelmed or stuck and are ready to actively engage in therapy and practice skills outside of sessions. They want to better understand themselves, build effective coping tools, and feel more grounded and empowered in their daily lives. I work best with individuals who are motivated for change and value an inclusive, supportive, and affirming therapeutic space.
(619) 374-9271 View (619) 374-9271
Photo of Dominique Zabala, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Dominique Zabala
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes life doesn’t unfold the way we imagined. You might be doing your best to keep things together, showing up for others, checking the boxes, but underneath, you’re feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer work. Maybe you’re in the middle of a big change, questioning who you are, or quietly carrying emotions that feel too heavy to hold alone. Therapy can be a place to exhale, a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a deeper way. I work with individuals and couples who want to feel more grounded, understood, and connected, to themselves and to each other.
Sometimes life doesn’t unfold the way we imagined. You might be doing your best to keep things together, showing up for others, checking the boxes, but underneath, you’re feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer work. Maybe you’re in the middle of a big change, questioning who you are, or quietly carrying emotions that feel too heavy to hold alone. Therapy can be a place to exhale, a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a deeper way. I work with individuals and couples who want to feel more grounded, understood, and connected, to themselves and to each other.
(619) 371-5188 View (619) 371-5188
Photo of Elvira Martin Del Campo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elvira Martin Del Campo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief or going through a life transition it would be my honor to support you in working through these issues. I am dedicated to enhancing your emotional well being and I strive to offer you a warm and non- judgmental environment where you can feel free to talk about any issues. l have been a therapist for 32 years, I have experience working with a wide variety of mental health issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief or going through a life transition it would be my honor to support you in working through these issues. I am dedicated to enhancing your emotional well being and I strive to offer you a warm and non- judgmental environment where you can feel free to talk about any issues. l have been a therapist for 32 years, I have experience working with a wide variety of mental health issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse.
(619) 627-0440 View (619) 627-0440
Photo of Audra Lacey, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Audra Lacey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with individuals, in particular, females and young adults. Some of the issues I work most effectively with include anxiety, mild depression, adjustment disorders, stress management and personal growth. My clinical and life experience contribute to my effectiveness in these areas.
I enjoy working with individuals, in particular, females and young adults. Some of the issues I work most effectively with include anxiety, mild depression, adjustment disorders, stress management and personal growth. My clinical and life experience contribute to my effectiveness in these areas.
(619) 312-6080 View (619) 312-6080
Photo of Esmeralda Zaragoza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Esmeralda Zaragoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’re constantly told that you are strong—you wake up, smile, and keep it moving, even when you’re running on empty. You hold in your needs, afraid to disappoint others, constantly balancing the weight of family expectations with your own dreams. You overachieve, you please, and you rarely slow down. Deep down, you’re craving peace, joy, and the freedom to set boundaries without guilt. You deserve to feel seen, supported, and finally put you first. Your body holds generations of trauma, yet it also holds the wisdom to heal. Together we can reestablish your internal safety and promote a healthy mind and body connection.
You’re constantly told that you are strong—you wake up, smile, and keep it moving, even when you’re running on empty. You hold in your needs, afraid to disappoint others, constantly balancing the weight of family expectations with your own dreams. You overachieve, you please, and you rarely slow down. Deep down, you’re craving peace, joy, and the freedom to set boundaries without guilt. You deserve to feel seen, supported, and finally put you first. Your body holds generations of trauma, yet it also holds the wisdom to heal. Together we can reestablish your internal safety and promote a healthy mind and body connection.
(619) 912-0321 View (619) 912-0321
Photo of Mary Jordan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EMDR, EMMHS, CMHS, LMFT
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EMDR, EMMHS, CMHS, LMFT
Serves Area
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN THE STRONG ONE AND FEEL THE PRESSURE TO KEEP SMILING WHEN THINGS ARE AWFUL? DO YOU CHOOSE TO STRUGGLE IN SILENCE BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE THAT TALKING ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS IS A BURDEN TO OTHERS? ARE YOU TIRED OF THE SAME UNCOMFORTABLE OR EXCRUCIATING PATTERNS REPLAYING IN YOUR LIFE, CAUSING DISRUPTION IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS? Do you love too hard? Unsure of where you belong; emotionally, culturally, racially, sexually? Are you experiencing betrayal? Feeling embarrassed. Stuck? As a 1st generation FIlipinx American with lived experience in multicultural relationships in Western society, I can help. Experience matters.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN THE STRONG ONE AND FEEL THE PRESSURE TO KEEP SMILING WHEN THINGS ARE AWFUL? DO YOU CHOOSE TO STRUGGLE IN SILENCE BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE THAT TALKING ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS IS A BURDEN TO OTHERS? ARE YOU TIRED OF THE SAME UNCOMFORTABLE OR EXCRUCIATING PATTERNS REPLAYING IN YOUR LIFE, CAUSING DISRUPTION IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS? Do you love too hard? Unsure of where you belong; emotionally, culturally, racially, sexually? Are you experiencing betrayal? Feeling embarrassed. Stuck? As a 1st generation FIlipinx American with lived experience in multicultural relationships in Western society, I can help. Experience matters.
(949) 529-0966 View (949) 529-0966
Photo of Kathy J Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kathy J Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I have been a psychotherapist for over 38 years. I enjoy working with a variety of adults of all ages especially in the areas of anxiety and depression, and life transitions. One of my specialties, is working with care-givers who have had a family member diagnosed with dementia. I have the personal and professional experience of understanding the difficult role required of the care-giver. I help you to balance the role of care-giver, while still maintaining a sense of your self. I will assist you to to get the necessary support, information, and resources to meet your own needs and maintain good boundaries.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 38 years. I enjoy working with a variety of adults of all ages especially in the areas of anxiety and depression, and life transitions. One of my specialties, is working with care-givers who have had a family member diagnosed with dementia. I have the personal and professional experience of understanding the difficult role required of the care-giver. I help you to balance the role of care-giver, while still maintaining a sense of your self. I will assist you to to get the necessary support, information, and resources to meet your own needs and maintain good boundaries.
(619) 649-4433 View (619) 649-4433
Photo of Patricia G Navarro, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Patricia G Navarro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Patricia Navarro, a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist with over 40 years of experience helping individuals, couples, families, and children. I specialize in supporting people through challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and work stress. I’m certified in grief counseling, trained in mindfulness, and use different approaches to meet your unique needs. My style is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
Hi, I’m Patricia Navarro, a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist with over 40 years of experience helping individuals, couples, families, and children. I specialize in supporting people through challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and work stress. I’m certified in grief counseling, trained in mindfulness, and use different approaches to meet your unique needs. My style is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
(619) 658-3540 View (619) 658-3540
Photo of Julie Greenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Julie Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions, wanting to feel better but unsure where to start? Life can often feel like a series of hurdles, leaving you feeling "stuck" or without a clear sense of direction. You might be searching for a sense of self-peace or simply want to wake up feeling capable of handling the day ahead. I provide a compassionate space to help you identify what’s holding you back and discover goals that truly resonate with you. Together, we can move from surviving to thriving, finding the aim and function you need to feel like yourself again.
Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions, wanting to feel better but unsure where to start? Life can often feel like a series of hurdles, leaving you feeling "stuck" or without a clear sense of direction. You might be searching for a sense of self-peace or simply want to wake up feeling capable of handling the day ahead. I provide a compassionate space to help you identify what’s holding you back and discover goals that truly resonate with you. Together, we can move from surviving to thriving, finding the aim and function you need to feel like yourself again.
(628) 561-2289 View (628) 561-2289

See more therapy options for 91950

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 91950

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 91950 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
62% Stress
60% Trauma and PTSD
57% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 91950 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 91950?

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.