Photo of Paul Kalkin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Paul Kalkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
You might feel like something’s broken—or that you are. Maybe you’ve given up on certain dreams, or you’re angry, stuck, or quietly imploding. You’ve probably tried to “figure it out” alone for a long time. I work well with men who are reflective, frustrated, sometimes cynical, but still want more from life. More depth, more connection, more power over their story. I’ll challenge you when it counts, and I won’t offer empty reassurance. If we work together, you’ll get someone who listens deeply, calls bullshit when needed, and helps you confront what’s really getting in the way. We’ll start with a few sessions to see how we fit.
You might feel like something’s broken—or that you are. Maybe you’ve given up on certain dreams, or you’re angry, stuck, or quietly imploding. You’ve probably tried to “figure it out” alone for a long time. I work well with men who are reflective, frustrated, sometimes cynical, but still want more from life. More depth, more connection, more power over their story. I’ll challenge you when it counts, and I won’t offer empty reassurance. If we work together, you’ll get someone who listens deeply, calls bullshit when needed, and helps you confront what’s really getting in the way. We’ll start with a few sessions to see how we fit.
(925) 515-3800 View (925) 515-3800
Photo of Brett Kociol, Psychologist, PsyD
Brett Kociol
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong commitment to providing high-quality individualized mental health care to adults. I offer both individual and group psychotherapy. I enjoy working with a diverse range of people, ages, and issues. I bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and relationship challenges. If you’d like to learn more about how I’d work with you or have any questions about starting therapy, please email or call me for a free phone consultation.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong commitment to providing high-quality individualized mental health care to adults. I offer both individual and group psychotherapy. I enjoy working with a diverse range of people, ages, and issues. I bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and relationship challenges. If you’d like to learn more about how I’d work with you or have any questions about starting therapy, please email or call me for a free phone consultation.
(925) 306-1513 View (925) 306-1513
Photo of Daming Mabel Mou, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Daming Mabel Mou
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Being a first generation Chinese-American immigrant, I am fluent in English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese, and I have passion, experience, and unique cultural understanding in resolving marriage and parenting issues. If you are considering filing for divorce or are wondering whether your marriage was the right choice, it is time to seek help. I will help you reevaluate your marriage, clarify your problems, release you from the constant quarreling wars, and guide you along the path of reconstruction and healing.
Being a first generation Chinese-American immigrant, I am fluent in English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese, and I have passion, experience, and unique cultural understanding in resolving marriage and parenting issues. If you are considering filing for divorce or are wondering whether your marriage was the right choice, it is time to seek help. I will help you reevaluate your marriage, clarify your problems, release you from the constant quarreling wars, and guide you along the path of reconstruction and healing.
(925) 357-9927 View (925) 357-9927
Photo of Amir A Siddiqui, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Amir A Siddiqui
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Over 12 years of experience in providing individual,couples,and family therapy services. I believe one is the driver and they control how they want to live;however, I understand often times family, bullying, substances, depression, past trauma, anxiety, relationships, raising children, career/employment, financial, and personal struggles can be obstacles.My objective is to work with you in being aware and in creating solutions, which can counterattack these obstacles. Depending on your motivation this process can be short or long. It all depends on how much you want to live a productive Life. I also provide supervision to APCC's.
Over 12 years of experience in providing individual,couples,and family therapy services. I believe one is the driver and they control how they want to live;however, I understand often times family, bullying, substances, depression, past trauma, anxiety, relationships, raising children, career/employment, financial, and personal struggles can be obstacles.My objective is to work with you in being aware and in creating solutions, which can counterattack these obstacles. Depending on your motivation this process can be short or long. It all depends on how much you want to live a productive Life. I also provide supervision to APCC's.
(209) 314-5114 View (209) 314-5114
Photo of Lindsay Hansen Ulrey, Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C, MFT
Lindsay Hansen Ulrey
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to reach out and ask for help when struggling or suffering in life, so I want to acknowledge that you have taken a very brave first step by looking into therapy and prioritizing your mental health. If you feel stuck or lost in your life, you do not have to do this on your own! Therapeutic relationships can be truly life changing and transformative. I believe strongly in a person's potential to heal, learn, and grow exponentially in a space that feels safe and supportive. My approach is warm, compassionate, and client-centered.
It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to reach out and ask for help when struggling or suffering in life, so I want to acknowledge that you have taken a very brave first step by looking into therapy and prioritizing your mental health. If you feel stuck or lost in your life, you do not have to do this on your own! Therapeutic relationships can be truly life changing and transformative. I believe strongly in a person's potential to heal, learn, and grow exponentially in a space that feels safe and supportive. My approach is warm, compassionate, and client-centered.
(831) 237-1313 View (831) 237-1313
Photo of Kim Salyer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP-2, EMDR
Kim Salyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP-2, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
No matter how hard you try, your life is a struggle. Even on a good day, when everything is going well, you still have those feelings: not understanding why you keep doing the things that you do, not recognizing the person you have become. On the outside you seem like you have your life put together, but on the inside, you are overwhelmed or unhappy. You're tired of feeling "stuck" in your life – whether it’s wanting better connections with loved ones, to better yourself, or to heal from the pain of your past.
No matter how hard you try, your life is a struggle. Even on a good day, when everything is going well, you still have those feelings: not understanding why you keep doing the things that you do, not recognizing the person you have become. On the outside you seem like you have your life put together, but on the inside, you are overwhelmed or unhappy. You're tired of feeling "stuck" in your life – whether it’s wanting better connections with loved ones, to better yourself, or to heal from the pain of your past.
(909) 552-8192 View (909) 552-8192
Photo of Cindy A Mayne, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, NCAC, NAADAC, CHT
Cindy A Mayne
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, NCAC, NAADAC, CHT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Having issues with anxiety, sleep, weight loss or addictions? I am a clinical hypnotherapist and can help with many issues. With the help of therapy, and hypnosis, many issues can be alleviated quickly.
Having issues with anxiety, sleep, weight loss or addictions? I am a clinical hypnotherapist and can help with many issues. With the help of therapy, and hypnosis, many issues can be alleviated quickly.
(707) 981-0317 View (707) 981-0317
Photo of Katherine Nitz, Psychologist, PsyD
Katherine Nitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in the testing of children, adolescents and young adults. I offer Educational and Psychological evaluations to help determine what factors may be impacting a child's academic, social and emotional functioning. I use the results to make effective and individualized recommendations to support each child in their learning, social and home environments. For teens and young adults, testing can be helpful for additional specific situations such as: determining if they may qualify for accomdations for standardized testing and information to help with their transition to college.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in the testing of children, adolescents and young adults. I offer Educational and Psychological evaluations to help determine what factors may be impacting a child's academic, social and emotional functioning. I use the results to make effective and individualized recommendations to support each child in their learning, social and home environments. For teens and young adults, testing can be helpful for additional specific situations such as: determining if they may qualify for accomdations for standardized testing and information to help with their transition to college.
(925) 331-0882 View (925) 331-0882
Photo of Naomi Bareket, MBA, NLP
Naomi Bareket
MBA, NLP
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
My clients say: "The training Naomi provided is endlessly fascinating and brought me a joy to working with people that I had not experienced before. " Just like you, they are executives, managers, or small business owners. Your transformation is amazing as problems turn into challenges then opportunities and successes. Overcome fear, stress, worry. Change habits. Feel more energy, as optimism and motivation increase. Your self-esteem and self-confidence grow strong. Find out your higher purpose and get clarity on your inner spark and your soul desire. Become self awareness, authentic, fulfill and maximize your potential
My clients say: "The training Naomi provided is endlessly fascinating and brought me a joy to working with people that I had not experienced before. " Just like you, they are executives, managers, or small business owners. Your transformation is amazing as problems turn into challenges then opportunities and successes. Overcome fear, stress, worry. Change habits. Feel more energy, as optimism and motivation increase. Your self-esteem and self-confidence grow strong. Find out your higher purpose and get clarity on your inner spark and your soul desire. Become self awareness, authentic, fulfill and maximize your potential
(443) 485-5959 View (443) 485-5959
Photo of Dr. Canary Sterling - Butterfly Resilience Holistic Family Therapy, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Butterfly Resilience Holistic Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Are you dealing with uncertainties in your life? Do you feel out of control or disconnected from reality? Are you constantly thinking about a situation(s) while feeling defeated no matter how much you try to stay positive, but negativity takes over? Dr. Sterling and her professional therapist/life coaches practice a "Humanistic and Person-Centered" approach when providing support & change. We provide in-person care within our serene & peaceful office or online for your comfort and convenience. Also, we have mindfulness groups and workshops for many. We will have a meaningful time cleansing our minds! Please contact us for details!
Are you dealing with uncertainties in your life? Do you feel out of control or disconnected from reality? Are you constantly thinking about a situation(s) while feeling defeated no matter how much you try to stay positive, but negativity takes over? Dr. Sterling and her professional therapist/life coaches practice a "Humanistic and Person-Centered" approach when providing support & change. We provide in-person care within our serene & peaceful office or online for your comfort and convenience. Also, we have mindfulness groups and workshops for many. We will have a meaningful time cleansing our minds! Please contact us for details!
(925) 436-1671 View (925) 436-1671
Photo of Patrick Petti, Psychologist, PhD
Patrick Petti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Thank you for visiting my practice. Many people seek psychotherapy for relief of emotional difficulties related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, as well as relationship and work difficulties. When practical solutions prove unsuccessful, there may be deeper issues to uncover to achieve insight and self-understanding in order to better cope with life’s challenges. In my approach, I focus on facilitating an empathic environment for clients to better understand themselves and their challenges. Achieving a deeper connection between the way we think and feel can enhance personal growth and provide emotional relief.
Thank you for visiting my practice. Many people seek psychotherapy for relief of emotional difficulties related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, as well as relationship and work difficulties. When practical solutions prove unsuccessful, there may be deeper issues to uncover to achieve insight and self-understanding in order to better cope with life’s challenges. In my approach, I focus on facilitating an empathic environment for clients to better understand themselves and their challenges. Achieving a deeper connection between the way we think and feel can enhance personal growth and provide emotional relief.
(925) 204-3946 View (925) 204-3946
Photo of Paul LeBars, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Paul LeBars
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
You’re not broken, though at times in life we can feel that way. Reaching out for support can be difficult, but it is the first step to feeling like life is working again. I help individuals and couples facilitate their process of living a fuller, deeper, more authentic, and balanced life through mindfulness-based and somatic psychotherapy. It’s an honor to sit with my clients and be a part of their journey.
You’re not broken, though at times in life we can feel that way. Reaching out for support can be difficult, but it is the first step to feeling like life is working again. I help individuals and couples facilitate their process of living a fuller, deeper, more authentic, and balanced life through mindfulness-based and somatic psychotherapy. It’s an honor to sit with my clients and be a part of their journey.
(925) 722-6331 View (925) 722-6331
Photo of Nitya Prema, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nitya Prema
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
My clients often tell me they feel cared about. I enjoy helping people find what works for them individually and provide a relaxing environment. Depression and anxiety are most often the symptoms to bring individuals into treatment, couples learn ways to be supportive of one another. I listen, make suggestions and offer techniques that will provide ways to get more out of daily life.
My clients often tell me they feel cared about. I enjoy helping people find what works for them individually and provide a relaxing environment. Depression and anxiety are most often the symptoms to bring individuals into treatment, couples learn ways to be supportive of one another. I listen, make suggestions and offer techniques that will provide ways to get more out of daily life.
(209) 794-4889 View (209) 794-4889
Photo of Dr. Wen-Ting Michelle Kan, Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, MSEd
Dr. Wen-Ting Michelle Kan
Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I provide psychological and neuropsychological assessments to children and adults in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. Many clients are referred for diagnostic clarification because they or someone noticed problems with cognitive, executive, emotional, social, academic, or occupational functioning. I also offer immigration-related and independent education evaluations. I thoroughly assess a client’s neurocognitive ability, socioemotional well-being, and academic performance during an evaluation. I also explore the impact of biopsychological and sociocultural factors on their symptoms, experiences, and functioning.
I provide psychological and neuropsychological assessments to children and adults in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. Many clients are referred for diagnostic clarification because they or someone noticed problems with cognitive, executive, emotional, social, academic, or occupational functioning. I also offer immigration-related and independent education evaluations. I thoroughly assess a client’s neurocognitive ability, socioemotional well-being, and academic performance during an evaluation. I also explore the impact of biopsychological and sociocultural factors on their symptoms, experiences, and functioning.
(925) 794-8335 View (925) 794-8335
Photo of Kamal Freiha, Psychologist
Kamal Freiha
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I am a clinical psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay/East Bay area. My practice includes psychotherapy and evaluation for couples and adults. I am also available for teaching, training, consultation, and supervision in a wide array of settings. My style is warm, interactive, and assertive, and I like to check in with my clients about how they feel about the work we are doing together.
I am a clinical psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay/East Bay area. My practice includes psychotherapy and evaluation for couples and adults. I am also available for teaching, training, consultation, and supervision in a wide array of settings. My style is warm, interactive, and assertive, and I like to check in with my clients about how they feel about the work we are doing together.
(510) 398-4154 View (510) 398-4154
Photo of Linda J Liu, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Linda J Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
At times we can feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety or stuck in life patterns that do not allow us to access the life we had hoped for.  Part of the "stuckness" can come from past experiences and perspectives we learned from an early age.  Part of it can come from current experiences that leave us feeling lost, afraid, or like we have no control.
At times we can feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety or stuck in life patterns that do not allow us to access the life we had hoped for.  Part of the "stuckness" can come from past experiences and perspectives we learned from an early age.  Part of it can come from current experiences that leave us feeling lost, afraid, or like we have no control.
(925) 350-4666 View (925) 350-4666
Photo of Valerie Souza, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Valerie Souza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
You are the expert of your life! Utilizing an "eclectic" approach, I will draw from an array of psychological orientations to help you recognize and move past obstacles standing between you and your contentment; which will enable you to experience more fulfilling relationships. I'm a "compassionate soul" with great listening skills, although my style is "active" and I frequently utilize Cognitive Behavioral tools and techniques to help you challenge your thinking, reduce your anxiety, and to encourage you to take advantage of the full spectrum of thinking and being.
You are the expert of your life! Utilizing an "eclectic" approach, I will draw from an array of psychological orientations to help you recognize and move past obstacles standing between you and your contentment; which will enable you to experience more fulfilling relationships. I'm a "compassionate soul" with great listening skills, although my style is "active" and I frequently utilize Cognitive Behavioral tools and techniques to help you challenge your thinking, reduce your anxiety, and to encourage you to take advantage of the full spectrum of thinking and being.
(925) 291-4411 View (925) 291-4411
Photo of Brittany Tachkov, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MT-BC
Brittany Tachkov
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your family navigating increased stress or a new medical or mental health need? We will look to discover your strengths and make a personalized approach to facing life’s changes and challenges. My experience with children, adolescents, LGBTQ+ youth, and adults have supported coping with the impact of grief, loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. My years of music therapy work includes facilitating connection, meaning, and understanding in the context of families coping with chronic and terminal illness, children’s bereavement groups, and intergenerational support.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your family navigating increased stress or a new medical or mental health need? We will look to discover your strengths and make a personalized approach to facing life’s changes and challenges. My experience with children, adolescents, LGBTQ+ youth, and adults have supported coping with the impact of grief, loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. My years of music therapy work includes facilitating connection, meaning, and understanding in the context of families coping with chronic and terminal illness, children’s bereavement groups, and intergenerational support.
(925) 281-5892 View (925) 281-5892
Photo of Tempest Lashan Cooper - Compassion Elevated Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Tempest, Cooper, MSW, ASW
Compassion Elevated Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Tempest, Cooper, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Do you have a daughter who needs help? Difficulties in life can cause crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, a lack of faith and hope, and a lack of understanding who you are and what you stand for. If you are interested in straightening you path, gaining clarity and building faith, please consider reaching out. I am a charismatic therapist who helps children/adolescents and adults with challenging life issues.
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Do you have a daughter who needs help? Difficulties in life can cause crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, a lack of faith and hope, and a lack of understanding who you are and what you stand for. If you are interested in straightening you path, gaining clarity and building faith, please consider reaching out. I am a charismatic therapist who helps children/adolescents and adults with challenging life issues.
(925) 268-7855 View (925) 268-7855
Photo of Shanique Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shanique Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Shanique Walker, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. With a Master's degree from Simmons College and about four years of experience, I've had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient hospitals, correctional facilities, and through telehealth.
Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Shanique Walker, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. With a Master's degree from Simmons College and about four years of experience, I've had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient hospitals, correctional facilities, and through telehealth.
(925) 722-6017 View (925) 722-6017
1

See more therapy options for 94588

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 94588

90+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in 94588 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
80% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
70% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

66% Cigna and Evernorth
64% Aetna
64% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 94588 see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 94588?

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.