Therapists in Helotes, TX

Photo of Lindsay Manfull Supervised By Jeanette Lira, LPC Associate in Helotes, TX
Lindsay Manfull Supervised By Jeanette Lira
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Reaching out for help can be one of the most difficult things an individual can do, especially when feeling a loss of clarity while being unregulated. Life's many challenges can grab a hold of you, toss you around, and make you feel like you've lost yourself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and my goal is to partner alongside you to help you be the best version of yourself. I approach each client holistically, taking into account all of life’s aspects and how they can impact your situation and emotions. My desire is for you to have the tools that enable you to take control of your health, wellness, and hope.
Reaching out for help can be one of the most difficult things an individual can do, especially when feeling a loss of clarity while being unregulated. Life's many challenges can grab a hold of you, toss you around, and make you feel like you've lost yourself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and my goal is to partner alongside you to help you be the best version of yourself. I approach each client holistically, taking into account all of life’s aspects and how they can impact your situation and emotions. My desire is for you to have the tools that enable you to take control of your health, wellness, and hope.
(210) 361-3256 View (210) 361-3256
Photo of Laura Bowling Supervised By Jeanette Lira, LPC Associate in Helotes, TX
Laura Bowling Supervised By Jeanette Lira
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Are you struggling to understand why the demands of school, work, relationships, and life can be a burden? Whether it’s a past or present challenge or the day in/day out stress of life, these experiences can take a toll on overall well-being,. Maybe you have been struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, perfection, burnout, or interpersonal skills and wonder if things could be different? You don’t have to walk through it alone. Are you ready to put in the work, dive deeper, and make a change for something that helps bring peace and healing to your life?
Are you struggling to understand why the demands of school, work, relationships, and life can be a burden? Whether it’s a past or present challenge or the day in/day out stress of life, these experiences can take a toll on overall well-being,. Maybe you have been struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, perfection, burnout, or interpersonal skills and wonder if things could be different? You don’t have to walk through it alone. Are you ready to put in the work, dive deeper, and make a change for something that helps bring peace and healing to your life?
(210) 903-8057 View (210) 903-8057
Photo of Flexible Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Helotes, TX
Flexible Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023
Counseling has the potential to be both frightening and exhilarating. Stating your dreams and working toward goals is a way to ensure that your personal growth is in the direction you hope for. I use visual aids and unique illustrations of topics discussed, so if you fear that you may have trouble talking at first, don't worry; it will be easier than you think!
Counseling has the potential to be both frightening and exhilarating. Stating your dreams and working toward goals is a way to ensure that your personal growth is in the direction you hope for. I use visual aids and unique illustrations of topics discussed, so if you fear that you may have trouble talking at first, don't worry; it will be easier than you think!
(210) 767-2379 View (210) 767-2379
Photo of Mikela Rae Bowers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Mikela Rae Bowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
Mikela Rae Bowers is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A) who has over 10 years of experience in mindfulness-based practices and therapies. Mikela works with those experiencing deep suffering due to life's ever-changing nature. From parenting teenagers to divorce or grief over the death of a loved one, Mikela offers therapies to facilitate healing the anxieties, depression, and traumas often accompanying these life events. Working together with her clients, Mikela finds the roots of suffering particular to each one and cultivates an environment and framework for healing.
Mikela Rae Bowers is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A) who has over 10 years of experience in mindfulness-based practices and therapies. Mikela works with those experiencing deep suffering due to life's ever-changing nature. From parenting teenagers to divorce or grief over the death of a loved one, Mikela offers therapies to facilitate healing the anxieties, depression, and traumas often accompanying these life events. Working together with her clients, Mikela finds the roots of suffering particular to each one and cultivates an environment and framework for healing.
(210) 940-2988 View (210) 940-2988
Photo of Shirin Rahimi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helotes, TX
Shirin Rahimi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like it’s getting harder to get through your days and can no longer function like you used to? If so, just know you’re not alone. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or other stressors affecting your daily functioning I would love to help you. If you just need someone to talk to I am also here to listen. My goal is to help you reach your goal and we will delve deep into that during your first session.
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like it’s getting harder to get through your days and can no longer function like you used to? If so, just know you’re not alone. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or other stressors affecting your daily functioning I would love to help you. If you just need someone to talk to I am also here to listen. My goal is to help you reach your goal and we will delve deep into that during your first session.
(210) 899-5056 View (210) 899-5056
Photo of Antje “Grace” Logue, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Antje “Grace” Logue
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023
Are you looking for help with trauma, anxiety, or different life events? I work with a range of clients presenting a variety of unique circumstances. My goal is to help you to understand yourself holistically - mind, body, and soul and to coach you on your journey to a life you love. I use a variety of treatment tools and techniques, including EMDR, that are designed to reach specific goals. My focus is on clients who have suffered trauma. I work with all age groups, and I am confident that we will accomplish results.
Are you looking for help with trauma, anxiety, or different life events? I work with a range of clients presenting a variety of unique circumstances. My goal is to help you to understand yourself holistically - mind, body, and soul and to coach you on your journey to a life you love. I use a variety of treatment tools and techniques, including EMDR, that are designed to reach specific goals. My focus is on clients who have suffered trauma. I work with all age groups, and I am confident that we will accomplish results.
(830) 582-7849 View (830) 582-7849
Photo of Trisha Govoni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Trisha Govoni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Working with adolescents and young adults has always been my passion! Let me help your child develop the healthy coping skills needed to overcome their daily challenges. I am creative and enthusiastic in my approach. I can help your child find inner peace and feel confident in who they are. I have been successful in helping my clients gain personal insight by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Creativity, Art, and Mindfulness . I work to develop age appropriate treatment plans, objectives, and goals in order to help each client reach their potential and work towards long term change.
Working with adolescents and young adults has always been my passion! Let me help your child develop the healthy coping skills needed to overcome their daily challenges. I am creative and enthusiastic in my approach. I can help your child find inner peace and feel confident in who they are. I have been successful in helping my clients gain personal insight by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Creativity, Art, and Mindfulness . I work to develop age appropriate treatment plans, objectives, and goals in order to help each client reach their potential and work towards long term change.
(210) 702-2275 View (210) 702-2275
Photo of Dr Hernandez & Associates, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Dr Hernandez & Associates, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023
Our Practice It is our belief and experience that you will get more out of your life if you are willing to change. Change is spurred by a feeling that something just isn't quite right, that something could be better, that there's an issue you want to resolve. Therapy is an important step in discovering the world around you and finding your place in it. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Our Practice It is our belief and experience that you will get more out of your life if you are willing to change. Change is spurred by a feeling that something just isn't quite right, that something could be better, that there's an issue you want to resolve. Therapy is an important step in discovering the world around you and finding your place in it. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(210) 796-9317 View (210) 796-9317
Photo of Erin Fly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Erin Fly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
Erin Fly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience in the field of mental health. She often works with teens, adults, and seniors who have dual diagnoses such as addiction and mental illness and specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, and other diagnoses such as trauma and PTSD. Erin graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Erin Fly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience in the field of mental health. She often works with teens, adults, and seniors who have dual diagnoses such as addiction and mental illness and specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, and other diagnoses such as trauma and PTSD. Erin graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(210) 864-9398 View (210) 864-9398
Photo of Adam Dueber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Adam Dueber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
Adam Dueber is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas who has 15 years of experience partnering with adults, couples, and teens seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationship issues. He utilizes relational, collaborative, strength-based (SBT), cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness, solutions-focused (SFT) methods with trauma-informed care to therapy while always maintaining the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, couple, and family.
Adam Dueber is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas who has 15 years of experience partnering with adults, couples, and teens seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationship issues. He utilizes relational, collaborative, strength-based (SBT), cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness, solutions-focused (SFT) methods with trauma-informed care to therapy while always maintaining the creativity, flexibility, and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, couple, and family.
(210) 942-1941 View (210) 942-1941
Photo of Catherine Clegg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helotes, TX
Catherine Clegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023
Not accepting new clients
Life Happens! La Vida Ocurre! Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, stressed, worried, anxious, sad or alone? You are taking a crucial step in regaining control by searching for help. You deserve and have the ability to feel better and together we can find that inner strength you had forgotten you have while experiencing Life! As a social worker in the healthcare system, I have worked with individuals from a diverse cultural background who were struggling with an array of issues: depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/ loss, crisis, and life stressors.
Life Happens! La Vida Ocurre! Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, stressed, worried, anxious, sad or alone? You are taking a crucial step in regaining control by searching for help. You deserve and have the ability to feel better and together we can find that inner strength you had forgotten you have while experiencing Life! As a social worker in the healthcare system, I have worked with individuals from a diverse cultural background who were struggling with an array of issues: depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/ loss, crisis, and life stressors.
(210) 806-7718 View (210) 806-7718
Photo of Courtney J Taylor Supervised By Veronica Ball, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Helotes, TX
Courtney J Taylor Supervised By Veronica Ball
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, PSC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile! Currently I am a full-time Professional School Counselor who is working on my LPC-A. I have 17 years of school counseling experience with children ages 4-18 years. My experience includes working with anxiety, with families experiencing loss such as a death in the family or a divorce/ separation, with trauma, as well as working with children in military families.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile! Currently I am a full-time Professional School Counselor who is working on my LPC-A. I have 17 years of school counseling experience with children ages 4-18 years. My experience includes working with anxiety, with families experiencing loss such as a death in the family or a divorce/ separation, with trauma, as well as working with children in military families.
(210) 942-7461 View (210) 942-7461
Photo of Kimberly Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Kimberly Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
(325) 240-5605 View (325) 240-5605
Photo of Dr. Lori Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Helotes, TX
Dr. Lori Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
You are NOT broken. You are hurting and you are tired of being so tired. I think sometimes we believe that we have to FEEL confident before we can show action. My very favorite saying is " show up, even when you are scared. Show up. " Do you feel like you or your partner are wondering how you ever fell in love to begin with? Does it feel like you are silently screaming and no one hears you while you walk around with a fake smile? Does it feel like you are white knuckling it through your day and hoping no one ever discovers "the real you?" Do you remember who are you with without anxiety snapping at your heels? You are not alone.
You are NOT broken. You are hurting and you are tired of being so tired. I think sometimes we believe that we have to FEEL confident before we can show action. My very favorite saying is " show up, even when you are scared. Show up. " Do you feel like you or your partner are wondering how you ever fell in love to begin with? Does it feel like you are silently screaming and no one hears you while you walk around with a fake smile? Does it feel like you are white knuckling it through your day and hoping no one ever discovers "the real you?" Do you remember who are you with without anxiety snapping at your heels? You are not alone.
(210) 580-6227 View (210) 580-6227
Photo of Mark Manfull Supervised By Jeanette Lira, LPC Associate in Helotes, TX
Mark Manfull Supervised By Jeanette Lira
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
Life can become very complicated and challenging, especially when you are not feeling your best. Seeking help is the first step to becoming the best version of yourself again. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate I will partner with you to help you navigate through life’s challenges. We will work together to understand how to overcome the emotions and aftermath that come when you feel like life has knocked you off your feet.
Life can become very complicated and challenging, especially when you are not feeling your best. Seeking help is the first step to becoming the best version of yourself again. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate I will partner with you to help you navigate through life’s challenges. We will work together to understand how to overcome the emotions and aftermath that come when you feel like life has knocked you off your feet.
(830) 271-5938 View (830) 271-5938
Photo of Julia E Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Julia E Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Thank you for visiting my site. Currently, I am a full-time school counselor and work part-time as an LPC. I have 18 years of school counseling experience with children ages 4-18 years. It is difficult being a child, teen and young adult experiencing trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, or just trying to figure out your identity. As a counselor, it’s important to get the professional help you need during traumatic life events, life stressors, or even self-acceptance. We will work together to find solutions, develop realistic goals, and work through the underlying issues through therapy.
Thank you for visiting my site. Currently, I am a full-time school counselor and work part-time as an LPC. I have 18 years of school counseling experience with children ages 4-18 years. It is difficult being a child, teen and young adult experiencing trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, or just trying to figure out your identity. As a counselor, it’s important to get the professional help you need during traumatic life events, life stressors, or even self-acceptance. We will work together to find solutions, develop realistic goals, and work through the underlying issues through therapy.
(210) 372-8681 View (210) 372-8681
Photo of Natasha Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Helotes, TX
Natasha Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Are you seeking support for personal growth and healing? I specialize in helping individuals, families and couples navigate a diverse range of challenges rooted in their past experiences. These challenges may encompass emotional and psychological scars resulting from trauma, abusive relationships, battles with addiction, infidelity or the aftermath of a breakup or divorce, along with the associated emotional turmoil.
Are you seeking support for personal growth and healing? I specialize in helping individuals, families and couples navigate a diverse range of challenges rooted in their past experiences. These challenges may encompass emotional and psychological scars resulting from trauma, abusive relationships, battles with addiction, infidelity or the aftermath of a breakup or divorce, along with the associated emotional turmoil.
(210) 591-2369 View (210) 591-2369
Photo of Laurie A. Hightower, Marriage & Family Therapist in Helotes, TX
Laurie A. Hightower
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Couple issues? Family problems? Children or Adolescents with issues? An individual struggling with problems? No matter the stage in your life or relationship there can be bumps in the road at times. Sometimes no matter how hard you may try, you may find you are struggling. Sometimes we find that despite our best efforts we may need help with certain aspects of life. Perhaps we need help leaving old unhealthy behaviors behind, or maybe we need help learning better ways of communicating with our loved ones.
Couple issues? Family problems? Children or Adolescents with issues? An individual struggling with problems? No matter the stage in your life or relationship there can be bumps in the road at times. Sometimes no matter how hard you may try, you may find you are struggling. Sometimes we find that despite our best efforts we may need help with certain aspects of life. Perhaps we need help leaving old unhealthy behaviors behind, or maybe we need help learning better ways of communicating with our loved ones.
(210) 988-6681 View (210) 988-6681
Photo of Dr. Kirleen Neely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Dr. Kirleen Neely
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023
Making the decision to get counseling for your relationship, your self, or teen is one of the hardest things to do. It's even more challenging to find someone you can relate to, and who has the expertise to really help you. At my practice, you're not just another client. I am laser focused on serving a FEW clients extraordinary well. Helping you tackle the insecurities and anxiety that block their success is my specialty. After twenty years of helping clients, I've figured out a thing or two about how to help people change their lives. I'd love to walk with you on this journey, please give me a call.
Making the decision to get counseling for your relationship, your self, or teen is one of the hardest things to do. It's even more challenging to find someone you can relate to, and who has the expertise to really help you. At my practice, you're not just another client. I am laser focused on serving a FEW clients extraordinary well. Helping you tackle the insecurities and anxiety that block their success is my specialty. After twenty years of helping clients, I've figured out a thing or two about how to help people change their lives. I'd love to walk with you on this journey, please give me a call.
(210) 881-7718 View (210) 881-7718
Photo of Claudia Patricia Leyton-De la Torre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Helotes, TX
Claudia Patricia Leyton-De la Torre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
Hi, how are you? I’m Claudia. I’m so glad you decided to take this step in helping yourself become the best you can be! I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in any societal labels.
Hi, how are you? I’m Claudia. I’m so glad you decided to take this step in helping yourself become the best you can be! I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in any societal labels.
(210) 791-6590 View (210) 791-6590

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Helotes, TX

70+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Helotes, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
76% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
67% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
77% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Helotes, TX see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Helotes?

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.