Therapists in New Bethlehem, PA

Photo of Laura Moore Counseling Services llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Laura Moore Counseling Services llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, NBCC, DCC, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Bethlehem, PA 16242
In our therapy sessions, we'll work together to solve current problems and improve positive thinking and behavior resulting from past experiences. Therapy will help you see new possibilities and skills helping you through life's journey. I'm confident you'll find personalized individual therapy beneficial and inspirational. We will use cognitive behavioral therapy or EMDR as a starting place to help you look at situations differently and learn the control you have in how you think and respond to events. We can not control other people, but you can control how you react to them.
In our therapy sessions, we'll work together to solve current problems and improve positive thinking and behavior resulting from past experiences. Therapy will help you see new possibilities and skills helping you through life's journey. I'm confident you'll find personalized individual therapy beneficial and inspirational. We will use cognitive behavioral therapy or EMDR as a starting place to help you look at situations differently and learn the control you have in how you think and respond to events. We can not control other people, but you can control how you react to them.
(814) 275-6611 View (814) 275-6611

Online Therapists

Photo of Rachel Rudel, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Rachel Rudel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Hello! My name is Rachel Rudel, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Drama Therapist. I know that processing thoughts and emotions related to life stressors can be overwhelming and confusing. The practice of therapy creates a safe space to broaden your coping skills so that you don’t have to do it alone! You can count on me to be warm, empathic and point out your strengths as you navigate making changes in your life. I treat teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I look forward to connecting and I can't wait to help you create the life you desire.
Hello! My name is Rachel Rudel, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Drama Therapist. I know that processing thoughts and emotions related to life stressors can be overwhelming and confusing. The practice of therapy creates a safe space to broaden your coping skills so that you don’t have to do it alone! You can count on me to be warm, empathic and point out your strengths as you navigate making changes in your life. I treat teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I look forward to connecting and I can't wait to help you create the life you desire.
(412) 415-7560 View (412) 415-7560
Photo of Clove Roses, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Bethlehem, PA
Clove Roses
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I believe each person has the power to expand their agency and live in more authenticity and alignment with their values. I work with individuals, couples, and families to build upon strengths and lean into growing edges, to find solutions to problems within ones relationship system that you may be struggling to see are there.
I believe each person has the power to expand their agency and live in more authenticity and alignment with their values. I work with individuals, couples, and families to build upon strengths and lean into growing edges, to find solutions to problems within ones relationship system that you may be struggling to see are there.
(412) 435-4569 View (412) 435-4569
Photo of Christopher P Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Christopher P Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Each of us each and every day is confronted with significant life difficulties. We can become overwhelmed and unable to cope with what appears to be insurmountable problems. My approach to counseling and consultation is that of a life coach assisting and supporting each person in learning new ways to deal with life difficulties and reach ones full potential. Most of us can benefit from a coach from time to time to help us deal with issues such as: relationships, parenting, adolescent struggles, substance misuse, abuse or addiction, anxiety and depression. Tomorrow can be different than today!
Each of us each and every day is confronted with significant life difficulties. We can become overwhelmed and unable to cope with what appears to be insurmountable problems. My approach to counseling and consultation is that of a life coach assisting and supporting each person in learning new ways to deal with life difficulties and reach ones full potential. Most of us can benefit from a coach from time to time to help us deal with issues such as: relationships, parenting, adolescent struggles, substance misuse, abuse or addiction, anxiety and depression. Tomorrow can be different than today!
(412) 228-0601 View (412) 228-0601
Photo of Nicole Snyder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Nicole Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I enjoy working with people who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and problems with self-esteem. I believe we each have the ability to understand and overcome our past traumas and current life stressors. I believe a supportive and safe space is necessary for people to overcome barriers and feel comfortable processing feelings, thoughts, and experiences.
I enjoy working with people who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and problems with self-esteem. I believe we each have the ability to understand and overcome our past traumas and current life stressors. I believe a supportive and safe space is necessary for people to overcome barriers and feel comfortable processing feelings, thoughts, and experiences.
(412) 275-5511 View (412) 275-5511
Photo of John Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
John Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
A dedicated mental health therapist who welcomes the opportunity to help you reduce emotional discomfort and build skills to manage the things that trouble you most. My approach is to create a partnership where we work together solving problems, discovering solutions and experiencing peace. My goal is to support you in having a better understanding of your inner world, to gain perspective about who you are in relationships and to increase overall health. Most importantly, I want to know the life you want for yourself and help you reach that vision.
A dedicated mental health therapist who welcomes the opportunity to help you reduce emotional discomfort and build skills to manage the things that trouble you most. My approach is to create a partnership where we work together solving problems, discovering solutions and experiencing peace. My goal is to support you in having a better understanding of your inner world, to gain perspective about who you are in relationships and to increase overall health. Most importantly, I want to know the life you want for yourself and help you reach that vision.
(724) 573-8390 View (724) 573-8390
Photo of Andrew J Kohlhepp, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Andrew J Kohlhepp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Du Bois, PA 15801
Are you trying to find purpose and meaning in your iife? Are you trying to overcome some sort of loss? Is anxiety and depression have a grip and just won't release? Does addiction have a grip? Have you experienced trama? Give me a call and we can figure out a plan and course of recovery....so you can find happiness and contentment again..
Are you trying to find purpose and meaning in your iife? Are you trying to overcome some sort of loss? Is anxiety and depression have a grip and just won't release? Does addiction have a grip? Have you experienced trama? Give me a call and we can figure out a plan and course of recovery....so you can find happiness and contentment again..
(814) 200-1618 View (814) 200-1618
Photo of Kathleen Joyce Fullmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Kathleen Joyce Fullmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15229
I love working with people of all ages who are seeking to understand themselves and other significant people in their lives! It is my joy to help my clients find peace and make meaning of both the usual challenges in life and the events that threaten to rob us of hope.
I love working with people of all ages who are seeking to understand themselves and other significant people in their lives! It is my joy to help my clients find peace and make meaning of both the usual challenges in life and the events that threaten to rob us of hope.
(412) 981-2554 View (412) 981-2554
Photo of Joseph Hegedus, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Joseph Hegedus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Upper Saint Clair, PA 15241
Whether you are looking for tools to manage daily stress or you are pursuing strategies to overcome more complex symptoms, you can expect a supportive and interpersonal experience within a professional environment. I have provided therapy to individuals, couples, and families throughout the Pittsburgh region for over two decades, addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, sleep problems, relationship challenges, esteem issues, and parenting & familial stress. You can schedule in-person and virtual appointments online at www.josephhegeduslpc.com.
Whether you are looking for tools to manage daily stress or you are pursuing strategies to overcome more complex symptoms, you can expect a supportive and interpersonal experience within a professional environment. I have provided therapy to individuals, couples, and families throughout the Pittsburgh region for over two decades, addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, sleep problems, relationship challenges, esteem issues, and parenting & familial stress. You can schedule in-person and virtual appointments online at www.josephhegeduslpc.com.
(878) 218-7047 View (878) 218-7047
Photo of Nathaniel Rigby, Psychologist in New Bethlehem, PA
Nathaniel Rigby
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15227
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, anger), complicated grief, relationship issues, and problems with motivation. I provide high quality, meaningful psychotherapy informed by many years of education, training and experience. Your first impression is likely to be that I am patient, warm, and knowledgeable with a lighthearted sense of humor. As we get to know each other, you will find that I am devoted to helping you feel better and I am committed to being straightforward with you so you can be challenged and grow.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, anger), complicated grief, relationship issues, and problems with motivation. I provide high quality, meaningful psychotherapy informed by many years of education, training and experience. Your first impression is likely to be that I am patient, warm, and knowledgeable with a lighthearted sense of humor. As we get to know each other, you will find that I am devoted to helping you feel better and I am committed to being straightforward with you so you can be challenged and grow.
(412) 253-2588 View (412) 253-2588
Photo of Ryan B O'Donnell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Ryan B O'Donnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
My ideal client is someone who is committed to the therapeutic process, willing to engage in self-reflection and open to exploring their emotions and experiences. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories, confront their fears, and develop the skills to manage their trauma-related symptoms. I am particularly drawn to working with individuals who are actively seeking help, demonstrating a willingness to confront their past and move towards healing. I am inspired by their courage and resilience, and I am committed to providing them with the support and guidance.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to the therapeutic process, willing to engage in self-reflection and open to exploring their emotions and experiences. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories, confront their fears, and develop the skills to manage their trauma-related symptoms. I am particularly drawn to working with individuals who are actively seeking help, demonstrating a willingness to confront their past and move towards healing. I am inspired by their courage and resilience, and I am committed to providing them with the support and guidance.
(412) 207-3650 View (412) 207-3650
Photo of Kerry Reed, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Kerry Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jeannette, PA 15644
Do you have something happening right now in your life that you feel stuck with - a problem you can't get past? Are you having problems with sadness, nervousness, or are you struggling to cope with everyday life? You don't have to try to figure it out on your own. I believe people want to do their best, but sometimes they need someone to help them get back on track. As a professional counselor, I want to help you through your problems as I have successfully helped many others, to help you succeed in your goals for your life.
Do you have something happening right now in your life that you feel stuck with - a problem you can't get past? Are you having problems with sadness, nervousness, or are you struggling to cope with everyday life? You don't have to try to figure it out on your own. I believe people want to do their best, but sometimes they need someone to help them get back on track. As a professional counselor, I want to help you through your problems as I have successfully helped many others, to help you succeed in your goals for your life.
(724) 832-1700 View (724) 832-1700
Photo of Jennifer Costa Hutchinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Jennifer Costa Hutchinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Now offering in person sessions on select days. Virtual daytime openings available. I believe therapy is a rewarding and challenging journey. Therapy can support you with overall health and wellness. Are you seeking more balance in your life? Would you like to be able to learn and utilize healthier coping skills to manage stress/anxiety/depression? The therapeutic process can meet you with where YOU are at in your life at this time. As you may be seeking a way to resolve a conflict within family or marriage or maybe you have never resolved issues from your past that are still causing you negative emotions in the present.
Now offering in person sessions on select days. Virtual daytime openings available. I believe therapy is a rewarding and challenging journey. Therapy can support you with overall health and wellness. Are you seeking more balance in your life? Would you like to be able to learn and utilize healthier coping skills to manage stress/anxiety/depression? The therapeutic process can meet you with where YOU are at in your life at this time. As you may be seeking a way to resolve a conflict within family or marriage or maybe you have never resolved issues from your past that are still causing you negative emotions in the present.
(412) 818-8537 View (412) 818-8537
Photo of Sharissa Shatten, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Sharissa Shatten
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
(878) 216-7434 View (878) 216-7434
Photo of Robin Thurman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Robin Thurman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harmony, PA 16037
I have experienced my own trauma and experienced the relief of finally processing it. There are proven ways to get "unstuck". Let me help you give that to yourself! I am an LCSW that specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles and family issues. I use a client led approach. I believe in creating an empathetic and non-judgemental space to help people be comfortable. I am passionate about helping people to explore what is holding them back from being their best self on their own terms and on their timeline.
I have experienced my own trauma and experienced the relief of finally processing it. There are proven ways to get "unstuck". Let me help you give that to yourself! I am an LCSW that specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles and family issues. I use a client led approach. I believe in creating an empathetic and non-judgemental space to help people be comfortable. I am passionate about helping people to explore what is holding them back from being their best self on their own terms and on their timeline.
(724) 603-1416 View (724) 603-1416
Photo of Dr. Melissa K Johnson, Psychologist in New Bethlehem, PA
Dr. Melissa K Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience helping people develop insight, knowledge and self-compassion. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship conflict and grief. I am a national consultant for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders, certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Dual Recovery and skilled in therapies for those with abuse histories (e.g., STAIR, Seeking Safety).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience helping people develop insight, knowledge and self-compassion. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship conflict and grief. I am a national consultant for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders, certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Dual Recovery and skilled in therapies for those with abuse histories (e.g., STAIR, Seeking Safety).
View
Photo of Abby Casner, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bethlehem, PA
Abby Casner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ebensburg, PA 15931  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression, how to manage? Learn cognitive distortions and implement positive reframing for stressful situations. What are cognitive distortions? A cognitive distortion is an exaggerated or irrational thought pattern that can bring on depression and anxiety. Cognitive distortions are thoughts that cause individuals to perceive reality inaccurately. Steps to combat cognitive distortions: Identify the Cognitive Distortion, Challenge your assumptions, Fact or opinion challenge, and Positively reframe situations. Person centered therapy is utilized during treatment. I do NOT prescribe medications or provide ADHD evaluations
Anxiety and depression, how to manage? Learn cognitive distortions and implement positive reframing for stressful situations. What are cognitive distortions? A cognitive distortion is an exaggerated or irrational thought pattern that can bring on depression and anxiety. Cognitive distortions are thoughts that cause individuals to perceive reality inaccurately. Steps to combat cognitive distortions: Identify the Cognitive Distortion, Challenge your assumptions, Fact or opinion challenge, and Positively reframe situations. Person centered therapy is utilized during treatment. I do NOT prescribe medications or provide ADHD evaluations
(814) 517-7898 View (814) 517-7898
Photo of Ashley Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Ashley Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Connellsville, PA 15425
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone deserves to have the support of someone who is non-judgmental, empathetic, and treats them with respect. Someone who can help you work through emotional pain and find meaning in the day to day. You deserve to have that kind of support in your life and I am ready to start that process on the way to personal healing with you. You are the expert in your life so I truly value getting to know you and seeing things from your perspective. With open conversation as well as targeted assessments, I strive to fully understand the struggles and challenges my clients face.
I believe that everyone deserves to have the support of someone who is non-judgmental, empathetic, and treats them with respect. Someone who can help you work through emotional pain and find meaning in the day to day. You deserve to have that kind of support in your life and I am ready to start that process on the way to personal healing with you. You are the expert in your life so I truly value getting to know you and seeing things from your perspective. With open conversation as well as targeted assessments, I strive to fully understand the struggles and challenges my clients face.
(724) 626-9941 View (724) 626-9941
Photo of Christy Sherman, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Bethlehem, PA
Christy Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
As a therapist I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes and often just need empowered through compassionate support. We all have times in our lives when we get stuck in our relationships and just need new effective ways of coping and communicating. I practice from a trauma focused and structural family perspective. I have been very successful in helping couples, families, individuals, and adolescents make positive changes that have lead to feelings of peace, healing, a sense of personal accomplishment, and problem resolution.
As a therapist I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes and often just need empowered through compassionate support. We all have times in our lives when we get stuck in our relationships and just need new effective ways of coping and communicating. I practice from a trauma focused and structural family perspective. I have been very successful in helping couples, families, individuals, and adolescents make positive changes that have lead to feelings of peace, healing, a sense of personal accomplishment, and problem resolution.
(724) 565-8584 View (724) 565-8584
Photo of New Directions Mental Health Meadowlands in New Bethlehem, PA
New Directions Mental Health Meadowlands
LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301
New Directions Mental Health is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Pennsylvania and the local Washington area. At our Meadowlands clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, child & adolescent therapy, group therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
New Directions Mental Health is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Pennsylvania and the local Washington area. At our Meadowlands clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, child & adolescent therapy, group therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
(412) 435-4648 View (412) 435-4648

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New Bethlehem, PA

< 10

Therapists in New Bethlehem, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Divorce
100% Career Counseling

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in New Bethlehem, PA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New Bethlehem?

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.