Therapists in 93257

Photo of Alicia Castro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alicia Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Porterville, CA 93257
Hi, my name is Alicia. I'm a counselor located in Porterville CA. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious, having stress from work or relationships? Are you struggling with negative thoughts that keep you up at night? I am a trauma informed therapist that can help you find ways to manage stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief/loss, trauma, conflicts in relationships, or childhood wounds. Let's work together to find your peace and joy again. Don't hesitate to call me with any questions so we can begin working together. Hablo Espanol.
Hi, my name is Alicia. I'm a counselor located in Porterville CA. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious, having stress from work or relationships? Are you struggling with negative thoughts that keep you up at night? I am a trauma informed therapist that can help you find ways to manage stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief/loss, trauma, conflicts in relationships, or childhood wounds. Let's work together to find your peace and joy again. Don't hesitate to call me with any questions so we can begin working together. Hablo Espanol.
(559) 744-4266 View (559) 744-4266
Photo of Yuliana Luna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yuliana Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Porterville, CA 93257
“ When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary” – Fred Rogers. I am an LCSW who specializes in working with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, life transitions and interpersonal conflicts. I believe meaningful change is possible at any stage of life. Through the establishment of a supportive therapeutic relationship, the development of healthy interpersonal connections, and the pursuit of of realistic, attainable goals, individuals can begin the process of deep and lasting healing.
“ When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary” – Fred Rogers. I am an LCSW who specializes in working with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, life transitions and interpersonal conflicts. I believe meaningful change is possible at any stage of life. Through the establishment of a supportive therapeutic relationship, the development of healthy interpersonal connections, and the pursuit of of realistic, attainable goals, individuals can begin the process of deep and lasting healing.
(559) 517-3818 View (559) 517-3818
Photo of Jessica Diane Cervantes, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Diane Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Porterville, CA 93257
Hi, I’m Jessica Cervantes, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or held back from making meaningful changes in your life? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to face this journey by yourself. I’m here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where healing can begin and growth can happen. My approach is empathic, client centered, and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward your goals so you can start to feel better, enjoy daily life more fully, and create the future you envision.
Hi, I’m Jessica Cervantes, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or held back from making meaningful changes in your life? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to face this journey by yourself. I’m here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where healing can begin and growth can happen. My approach is empathic, client centered, and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward your goals so you can start to feel better, enjoy daily life more fully, and create the future you envision.
(559) 354-4384 View (559) 354-4384
Jeri P Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Porterville, CA 93257
Beginning therapy can often be intimidating. It requires, among many things, vulnerability and trust in the therapeutic relationship and process. Painful life experiences can make it difficult to trust that others will have your best interest at heart or not be judgmental. If you are considering entering therapy, I applaud you for taking this courageous first step. My clients have repeatedly told me how comfortable they felt after the first session. I will provide for you a safe and non-judgmental space as we work as a team to accomplish your goals and embrace the process of change.
Beginning therapy can often be intimidating. It requires, among many things, vulnerability and trust in the therapeutic relationship and process. Painful life experiences can make it difficult to trust that others will have your best interest at heart or not be judgmental. If you are considering entering therapy, I applaud you for taking this courageous first step. My clients have repeatedly told me how comfortable they felt after the first session. I will provide for you a safe and non-judgmental space as we work as a team to accomplish your goals and embrace the process of change.
(559) 354-1419 View (559) 354-1419
Photo of Jessica Jara, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jessica Jara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Porterville, CA 93257
I am so glad that you are considering starting therapy! As you browse around to see who you think will be a good fit, thoroughly read through the profiles and do not be afraid to ask questions. The most important thing about the Therapeutic relationship is that you feel comfortable and heard. I'd like to share a little about myself...... I hope I can be the right therapist for you. I absolutely love working with people. I have over 5 years of experience working with children ages 3 and up. In my 5 years of practice I have provided services to children, adolescents and their families.
I am so glad that you are considering starting therapy! As you browse around to see who you think will be a good fit, thoroughly read through the profiles and do not be afraid to ask questions. The most important thing about the Therapeutic relationship is that you feel comfortable and heard. I'd like to share a little about myself...... I hope I can be the right therapist for you. I absolutely love working with people. I have over 5 years of experience working with children ages 3 and up. In my 5 years of practice I have provided services to children, adolescents and their families.
(559) 314-2908 View (559) 314-2908
Photo of Carol Elizabeth Windsor - Compass Family Counseling Services, MA, MFT, Owner
Compass Family Counseling Services
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Compass Family Counseling Services is your trusted partner on the journey to emotional well-being and stronger family bonds. Our expert team of compassionate counselors provides personalized and evidence-based therapy to navigate life's challenges, fostering resilience and harmony within your family. Discover a path to healing, growth, and connection with Compass Family Counseling Services – where understanding, support, and positive change come together." We offer a free phone consultation. We understand that mental health is complex. From everyday stress to more serious conditions, our team is here to provide personalized support.
Compass Family Counseling Services is your trusted partner on the journey to emotional well-being and stronger family bonds. Our expert team of compassionate counselors provides personalized and evidence-based therapy to navigate life's challenges, fostering resilience and harmony within your family. Discover a path to healing, growth, and connection with Compass Family Counseling Services – where understanding, support, and positive change come together." We offer a free phone consultation. We understand that mental health is complex. From everyday stress to more serious conditions, our team is here to provide personalized support.
(559) 369-2351 View (559) 369-2351
Photo of Katherine Mancera, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Katherine Mancera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anxiety and perfectionism have turned your brain into a hot mess of a place to live. Your inner critic nitpicks every interaction, leaving you exhausted from another full day of “Should’ve done that better.” Painful memories nag at you, getting louder despite your efforts to shove them away. Daily invalidations of your queer, Latina, or immigrant identity sting, and loneliness has set in as you keep your suffering to yourself. You’ve tried everything: drinking, doom scrolling, self-help books, but nothing has worked. You're left feeling weighed down and hopeless.
Anxiety and perfectionism have turned your brain into a hot mess of a place to live. Your inner critic nitpicks every interaction, leaving you exhausted from another full day of “Should’ve done that better.” Painful memories nag at you, getting louder despite your efforts to shove them away. Daily invalidations of your queer, Latina, or immigrant identity sting, and loneliness has set in as you keep your suffering to yourself. You’ve tried everything: drinking, doom scrolling, self-help books, but nothing has worked. You're left feeling weighed down and hopeless.
(510) 493-7837 View (510) 493-7837
Photo of Daniel Burke - Daniel Burke Marriage and Family Therapist Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Daniel Burke Marriage and Family Therapist Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
I work with Individuals, Couples and Families experiencing struggles and conflict with thier interpersonal relationships. I have experience with grief and loss issues, infidelity, and substance relapse prevention. Communication and compromise are hallmarks of successful relationships. For couples; passion, friendship and commitment signal success. Learn how to grow in your relationships.
I work with Individuals, Couples and Families experiencing struggles and conflict with thier interpersonal relationships. I have experience with grief and loss issues, infidelity, and substance relapse prevention. Communication and compromise are hallmarks of successful relationships. For couples; passion, friendship and commitment signal success. Learn how to grow in your relationships.
(661) 213-9873 View (661) 213-9873
Michelle Bussey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Often we look for quick fixes for life's challenges when actually they have been developing for many years - dealing with life challenges simply takes time for change. I work with a wide spectrum individuals from all types of backgrounds, histories, lifestyle orientations, faiths and severity of difficulties such as anger issues, depression, anxiety, stress management, and interpersonal trauma. Family issues include pre-marital and couple counseling, parenting issues, children, adolescents, peer relationships, grief and loss through death, adjustments due to divorce or separation, infertility and loss, domestic abuse, and life transitions.
Often we look for quick fixes for life's challenges when actually they have been developing for many years - dealing with life challenges simply takes time for change. I work with a wide spectrum individuals from all types of backgrounds, histories, lifestyle orientations, faiths and severity of difficulties such as anger issues, depression, anxiety, stress management, and interpersonal trauma. Family issues include pre-marital and couple counseling, parenting issues, children, adolescents, peer relationships, grief and loss through death, adjustments due to divorce or separation, infertility and loss, domestic abuse, and life transitions.
(559) 512-7300 View (559) 512-7300
Photo of Sonja Meyer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sonja Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
My name is Sonja Meyer. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. The heart of my work is to create a warm and caring space that allows my clients to express themselves without judgment. I found that I work best with people who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Using a kind and gentle approach, I seek to lead each client toward deeper self-knowledge so they can gradually begin to let go of harmful patterns that may be keeping them stuck.
My name is Sonja Meyer. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. The heart of my work is to create a warm and caring space that allows my clients to express themselves without judgment. I found that I work best with people who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Using a kind and gentle approach, I seek to lead each client toward deeper self-knowledge so they can gradually begin to let go of harmful patterns that may be keeping them stuck.
(747) 269-0813 View (747) 269-0813
Photo of Alicia Zayas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Alicia Zayas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a compassionate perinatal therapist and maternal mental health specialist, I offer a welcoming and supportive environment where we embark on your path to wellness. You've taken the courageous first step by seeking postpartum support and treatment, and I'm here to guide you through this transformative time. My passion is helping women navigating Perinatal Mental Health issues, from fertility challenges to the postpartum period. If you're a new mom, an expecting mom, or hoping to conceive, building your postpartum support team is vital – it's never too late to start your maternal mental health journey. Let's connect!
As a compassionate perinatal therapist and maternal mental health specialist, I offer a welcoming and supportive environment where we embark on your path to wellness. You've taken the courageous first step by seeking postpartum support and treatment, and I'm here to guide you through this transformative time. My passion is helping women navigating Perinatal Mental Health issues, from fertility challenges to the postpartum period. If you're a new mom, an expecting mom, or hoping to conceive, building your postpartum support team is vital – it's never too late to start your maternal mental health journey. Let's connect!
(559) 364-9856 View (559) 364-9856
Photo of Katrina Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Katrina Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and supportive space for healing. I specialize in queer counseling, EMDR, and trauma-informed care, and I’m passionate about helping clients navigate challenges with authenticity and resilience. Whether you're working through trauma, identity exploration, or relationship dynamics, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and insight.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and supportive space for healing. I specialize in queer counseling, EMDR, and trauma-informed care, and I’m passionate about helping clients navigate challenges with authenticity and resilience. Whether you're working through trauma, identity exploration, or relationship dynamics, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and insight.
(424) 888-3750 View (424) 888-3750
Photo of Julissa Garza, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Julissa Garza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I consider myself a highly empathic therapist who seeks to understand my client's concerns, sufferings, and needs by being present, unconditional, and utilizing reflective listening. Every client's needs are completely different; therefore, my main goal in therapy is to provide different modalities and interventions according to each individual needs to ensure a deeper understanding and restoration.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I consider myself a highly empathic therapist who seeks to understand my client's concerns, sufferings, and needs by being present, unconditional, and utilizing reflective listening. Every client's needs are completely different; therefore, my main goal in therapy is to provide different modalities and interventions according to each individual needs to ensure a deeper understanding and restoration.
(818) 418-1478 View (818) 418-1478
Photo of Susie Romero, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Susie Romero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Adults: Feel out of control or disconnected from yourself or others? Are you overwhelmed, anxious, or alone? Is life slipping from your hands or just passing you by? Therapy can help you rediscover a sense of control and find relief from trauma that often includes pain, childhood hurts, abandonment, judgment, hurt, shame, depression, and emptiness. Children: I genuinely enjoy supporting children, tweens, and teens through their emotional journeys. With patience and dedication, I guide young people to express and navigate their "big emotions" using movement and creative arts as powerful storytelling tools.
Adults: Feel out of control or disconnected from yourself or others? Are you overwhelmed, anxious, or alone? Is life slipping from your hands or just passing you by? Therapy can help you rediscover a sense of control and find relief from trauma that often includes pain, childhood hurts, abandonment, judgment, hurt, shame, depression, and emptiness. Children: I genuinely enjoy supporting children, tweens, and teens through their emotional journeys. With patience and dedication, I guide young people to express and navigate their "big emotions" using movement and creative arts as powerful storytelling tools.
(559) 215-8719 View (559) 215-8719
Photo of Margaret Miller - Margaret Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Margaret Miller, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Are you tired of repeating the same painful patterns in your life or relationships? Do you feel unseen, unheard, or invalidated in your struggles? I'm an active, present, and direct therapist here to offer you honest feedback and clear insights into what keeps you stuck. I work with adults and couples to gain greater self-awareness, compassion, and practical skills for a more fulfilling life. My approach is warm, direct, collaborative, and non-judgmental. My office is a space for you to feel safe and truly seen as we explore the emotional and relational distress that is holding you back.
Are you tired of repeating the same painful patterns in your life or relationships? Do you feel unseen, unheard, or invalidated in your struggles? I'm an active, present, and direct therapist here to offer you honest feedback and clear insights into what keeps you stuck. I work with adults and couples to gain greater self-awareness, compassion, and practical skills for a more fulfilling life. My approach is warm, direct, collaborative, and non-judgmental. My office is a space for you to feel safe and truly seen as we explore the emotional and relational distress that is holding you back.
(551) 224-0613 View (551) 224-0613
Photo of Marilu Lemos, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Marilu Lemos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Hi there, I’m Marilu! My name is Marilu Lemos, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Visalia, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth and locally via in-person.
Hi there, I’m Marilu! My name is Marilu Lemos, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Visalia, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth and locally via in-person.
(747) 966-2737 View (747) 966-2737
Photo of Maria Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Maria Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist who can guide you through life's challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique journeys towards healing and growth. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives, and I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their personal and relational goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or family dynamics, I am here to provide the tools and insights you need to thrive.
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist who can guide you through life's challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique journeys towards healing and growth. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives, and I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their personal and relational goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or family dynamics, I am here to provide the tools and insights you need to thrive.
(619) 848-0280 View (619) 848-0280
Photo of Sunlight “Sunny” Walsh, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sunlight “Sunny” Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, in your relationship, or getting calls from your child's school? Facing a divorce? I will assist you in navigating your way to a healthier, happier life of your choosing. With compassion and understanding, you will be supported in your growth. and healing. I work with adults, children, and adolescents. If you or your loved one is experiencing grief & loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, or drug addiction, I encourage you to reach out today.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, in your relationship, or getting calls from your child's school? Facing a divorce? I will assist you in navigating your way to a healthier, happier life of your choosing. With compassion and understanding, you will be supported in your growth. and healing. I work with adults, children, and adolescents. If you or your loved one is experiencing grief & loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, or drug addiction, I encourage you to reach out today.
(858) 703-5342 View (858) 703-5342
Photo of Frances S Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Frances S Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
I offer telehealth options to respond to the COVID 19 virus, free consultations and accepting new clients. Please call my office. Life can be overwhelming, and a struggle to just keep your head above water. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples and families. I have been in the helping field since 2006.
I offer telehealth options to respond to the COVID 19 virus, free consultations and accepting new clients. Please call my office. Life can be overwhelming, and a struggle to just keep your head above water. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples and families. I have been in the helping field since 2006.
(559) 206-0790 View (559) 206-0790
Photo of Serina Palomino, Counselor, LPCC
Serina Palomino
Counselor, LPCC
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Serina Palomino. I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor) and like to meet my clients where they are utilizing an integrative approach. I provide therapeutic services to children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation, primarily utilizing CBT, EMDR, art therapy, and play therapy. I primarily provide service to children, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of behavioral health issues, not limited to the following: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation.
Hello, my name is Serina Palomino. I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor) and like to meet my clients where they are utilizing an integrative approach. I provide therapeutic services to children and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation, primarily utilizing CBT, EMDR, art therapy, and play therapy. I primarily provide service to children, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of behavioral health issues, not limited to the following: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, divorce, and separation.
(323) 870-1916 View (323) 870-1916

See more therapy options for 93257

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 93257

70+

Average cost per session

$137

Therapists in 93257 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
96% Depression
70% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Relationship Issues
66% Coping Skills
64% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
82% Anthem
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 93257 see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

88% Female
11% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 93257?

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.