Therapists in Newington, CT

Photo of Kemesha Forbs - Hope Speaks, LLC , Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Hope Speaks, LLC
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
My focus is supporting children, adolescents and teens grappling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, and trauma. Each of these issues can be overwhelming, not only for the young person but also for the entire family. My goal is to partner with you and your child on this journey toward healing and growth. As a parent, navigating the complexities of a child’s mental health can feel daunting. I offer guidance and support to families, ensuring that you have the tools and understanding needed to foster a positive environment for your child. Together, we can work through challenges, improve communication, and strengthen family bonds.
My focus is supporting children, adolescents and teens grappling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, and trauma. Each of these issues can be overwhelming, not only for the young person but also for the entire family. My goal is to partner with you and your child on this journey toward healing and growth. As a parent, navigating the complexities of a child’s mental health can feel daunting. I offer guidance and support to families, ensuring that you have the tools and understanding needed to foster a positive environment for your child. Together, we can work through challenges, improve communication, and strengthen family bonds.
(860) 351-4272 x103 View (860) 351-4272 x103
Photo of Jennifer Dugre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Dugre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be messy! I would like to help you feel more grounded and supported to navigate the challenges. My interests include working with young adults—maybe you are struggling to adjust to college, working, “adulting,” or having relationship issues. I am also passionate about working with women on maternal wellness and motherhood struggles. I have completed specialized perinatal training through PSI and offer video sessions, which many of my mothers find convenient when juggling family and/or work. Please know that you are not alone. Therapy can help to release that “heaviness” you are carrying around.
Life can be messy! I would like to help you feel more grounded and supported to navigate the challenges. My interests include working with young adults—maybe you are struggling to adjust to college, working, “adulting,” or having relationship issues. I am also passionate about working with women on maternal wellness and motherhood struggles. I have completed specialized perinatal training through PSI and offer video sessions, which many of my mothers find convenient when juggling family and/or work. Please know that you are not alone. Therapy can help to release that “heaviness” you are carrying around.
(860) 266-4562 View (860) 266-4562
Photo of Kayla Jenkins, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Jenkins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
You deserve to feel safe, supported, and, most importantly, heard. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by life’s demands and feel like no one is on your side. Depression, anxiety, and stress can make us feel as if there is nowhere else to go. Or we develop coping methods that are not aligned with our life goals. If pouring from an empty cup is no longer an option for you, then I commend you for taking the first step towards your new journey.
You deserve to feel safe, supported, and, most importantly, heard. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by life’s demands and feel like no one is on your side. Depression, anxiety, and stress can make us feel as if there is nowhere else to go. Or we develop coping methods that are not aligned with our life goals. If pouring from an empty cup is no longer an option for you, then I commend you for taking the first step towards your new journey.
(860) 357-5774 View (860) 357-5774
Photo of Debbie Wilson, Professional Counselor Associate, MED/MHC, LPCA
Debbie Wilson
Professional Counselor Associate, MED/MHC, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Today is the beginning of a new day, new adventures and new challenges. You made the initial step to seek help; It takes courage to step outside your comfort zone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A), I’m committed to providing a safe place for you to come and communicate about your emotions. As you travel through this journey in life, you are not alone. There is help available to help you accept, build, overcome, and achieve your goals. We will work together to build a trusting therapeutic relationship. You have come to the right place. I am committed to working with you, to improve your quality of life.
Today is the beginning of a new day, new adventures and new challenges. You made the initial step to seek help; It takes courage to step outside your comfort zone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A), I’m committed to providing a safe place for you to come and communicate about your emotions. As you travel through this journey in life, you are not alone. There is help available to help you accept, build, overcome, and achieve your goals. We will work together to build a trusting therapeutic relationship. You have come to the right place. I am committed to working with you, to improve your quality of life.
(860) 854-7201 View (860) 854-7201
Photo of Kerry Rossi, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Kerry Rossi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals and couples. Life can be challenging at times and we can all experience stressors. We can feel stuck in unhealthy patterns, thoughts, behaviors and/or relationships. Therapy can be a beneficial way to explore these patterns and make healthy changes.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals and couples. Life can be challenging at times and we can all experience stressors. We can feel stuck in unhealthy patterns, thoughts, behaviors and/or relationships. Therapy can be a beneficial way to explore these patterns and make healthy changes.
(959) 207-1939 View (959) 207-1939
Photo of Safiya Ruddock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Safiya Ruddock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
Do you feel as though your life is stuck in the same place and that you are unable to make necessary changes? Do you feel powerless in managing intolerable feelings and struggle to identify why you have these feelings in the first place? Well, I am here to tell you that you can indeed have a life of abundance, joy, and peace. My goal is to understand your beliefs and personality to support you in aligning your actions with who you are. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in assisting clients with identifying the root cause of these issues and how they can be addressed.
Do you feel as though your life is stuck in the same place and that you are unable to make necessary changes? Do you feel powerless in managing intolerable feelings and struggle to identify why you have these feelings in the first place? Well, I am here to tell you that you can indeed have a life of abundance, joy, and peace. My goal is to understand your beliefs and personality to support you in aligning your actions with who you are. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in assisting clients with identifying the root cause of these issues and how they can be addressed.
(860) 791-4618 View (860) 791-4618
Photo of Chanel Cranford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Chanel Cranford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I am a therapist committed to assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families to confront and address trauma, repair and strengthen families, and provide pathways to mental health services.
I am a therapist committed to assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families to confront and address trauma, repair and strengthen families, and provide pathways to mental health services.
(860) 831-4868 View (860) 831-4868
Photo of Julian Stakley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Julian Stakley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
Therapy with me is a collaborative experience built on trust, empathy, and transparency. Client's report feeling instantly connected, as if they’ve known me for much longer than they have. My individualized, patient-centered approach helps clients reach the best version of themselves. I utilize strength-based therapy, client-centered therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, and problem-solving therapy to help clients manage mental health conditions so they can thrive. Reach out to our office today to schedule an appointment with me.
Therapy with me is a collaborative experience built on trust, empathy, and transparency. Client's report feeling instantly connected, as if they’ve known me for much longer than they have. My individualized, patient-centered approach helps clients reach the best version of themselves. I utilize strength-based therapy, client-centered therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, and problem-solving therapy to help clients manage mental health conditions so they can thrive. Reach out to our office today to schedule an appointment with me.
(860) 318-9580 View (860) 318-9580
Photo of Kimberly M Malone - New Wave Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
New Wave Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
Over 20 years of clinical experience working with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and addiction in various treatment settings. Diversity and multicultural issues are embedded in everything we do and contribute to presenting problems. I am conscious of varying decision-making preferences, the role of family dynamics, stages of life, socioeconomic status, and issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity. As well as the stigma associated with seeking mental health services.
Over 20 years of clinical experience working with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and addiction in various treatment settings. Diversity and multicultural issues are embedded in everything we do and contribute to presenting problems. I am conscious of varying decision-making preferences, the role of family dynamics, stages of life, socioeconomic status, and issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity. As well as the stigma associated with seeking mental health services.
(860) 530-2988 View (860) 530-2988
Photo of Renata Majka - Renaissance Counseling Center,LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Renaissance Counseling Center,LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
We all need support from time to time. We are not perfect and life is quite complex. Do you feel stuck and overwhelmed? Is your relationship falling apart? Is your past trauma affecting your daily life? You are not alone. I can help you get through the chaos and pain. I can help you mange fear, anxiety, depression and pain. You can become more confident and stronger than ever. I believe that crisis leads to change and transformation. Let me help you let go of a painful past and embrace new possibilities. Let me help you RE-FOCUS and CREATE a new you. “I’m not what happened to me. I’m what I chose to become”.
We all need support from time to time. We are not perfect and life is quite complex. Do you feel stuck and overwhelmed? Is your relationship falling apart? Is your past trauma affecting your daily life? You are not alone. I can help you get through the chaos and pain. I can help you mange fear, anxiety, depression and pain. You can become more confident and stronger than ever. I believe that crisis leads to change and transformation. Let me help you let go of a painful past and embrace new possibilities. Let me help you RE-FOCUS and CREATE a new you. “I’m not what happened to me. I’m what I chose to become”.
(959) 600-6545 View (959) 600-6545
Photo of Jenny Correa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Jenny Correa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Don’t count the days, make the days count. I reflect on this quote as a reminder that in life, we have the opportunity to put forth our best efforts and question any beliefs that may no longer serve us. I offer therapy for individuals ranging in age from children to adults, and couples. I have experience with helping people cope through anger, anxiety, self-defeating thoughts, grief, depression, infidelity and more. I believe that the combination of my therapeutic skills and your drive to alleviate your problems, is a recipe for great outcomes.
Don’t count the days, make the days count. I reflect on this quote as a reminder that in life, we have the opportunity to put forth our best efforts and question any beliefs that may no longer serve us. I offer therapy for individuals ranging in age from children to adults, and couples. I have experience with helping people cope through anger, anxiety, self-defeating thoughts, grief, depression, infidelity and more. I believe that the combination of my therapeutic skills and your drive to alleviate your problems, is a recipe for great outcomes.
(860) 864-4039 x102 View (860) 864-4039 x102
Photo of Charleen K Miele, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Charleen K Miele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I meet my clients where they are and help them process through feelings, events, transitions, and anything else that they are facing. Comfortable office setting, plenty of parking and a warm welcoming atmosphere. Humbled to walk the journey with my clients.
I meet my clients where they are and help them process through feelings, events, transitions, and anything else that they are facing. Comfortable office setting, plenty of parking and a warm welcoming atmosphere. Humbled to walk the journey with my clients.
(860) 352-5267 View (860) 352-5267
Photo of Patricia Jarvis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Patricia Jarvis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Hello, My passion in life is children! I have supported children and families in vast modalities for more than 20 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and an educator. I specialize in working with young children through early adolescence. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation and trauma. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and also use a variety of treatment modalities incorporating my love of the arts, music, theatre and dance. Limited immediate openings available. Strengthen your child's emotional health before the new school year.
Hello, My passion in life is children! I have supported children and families in vast modalities for more than 20 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and an educator. I specialize in working with young children through early adolescence. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation and trauma. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and also use a variety of treatment modalities incorporating my love of the arts, music, theatre and dance. Limited immediate openings available. Strengthen your child's emotional health before the new school year.
(860) 854-7848 View (860) 854-7848
Photo of Shelby Whitley, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Shelby Whitley
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I have had the privilege of assisting individuals across various age groups, including couples, teens, adults, and seniors, in navigating challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, career-related issues, women's issues, relationship struggles, depression, and much more. I understand the complexities of balancing multiple roles in life, such as parenting, relationships, and work-life. I want to emphasize that therapy is a safe space, free from judgment, where growth can manifest even in the face of challenges.
I have had the privilege of assisting individuals across various age groups, including couples, teens, adults, and seniors, in navigating challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, career-related issues, women's issues, relationship struggles, depression, and much more. I understand the complexities of balancing multiple roles in life, such as parenting, relationships, and work-life. I want to emphasize that therapy is a safe space, free from judgment, where growth can manifest even in the face of challenges.
(860) 791-4016 View (860) 791-4016
Photo of Virginia 'vigie' Ramos Rios - Sol Health, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sol Health
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients come from all walks of life. They may be struggling with work, school, family, relationships, or simply the everyday trials and tribulations. They may know exactly what is triggering them and what they need help with or they may have no idea. For the most part they are folks who recognize they need some help and are looking for someone to go with them on their journey.
My clients come from all walks of life. They may be struggling with work, school, family, relationships, or simply the everyday trials and tribulations. They may know exactly what is triggering them and what they need help with or they may have no idea. For the most part they are folks who recognize they need some help and are looking for someone to go with them on their journey.
(929) 528-5316 View (929) 528-5316
Photo of Luz Cardona, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Luz Cardona
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Waitlist for new clients
Embracing the journey to reclaim mastery over your life, I am dedicated to empowering you with positive ways to navigate through challenges and transform ineffective coping methods. With my assistance, you can embark on a path towards relieving mental health symptoms by embracing healthy lifestyle choices, adopting effective coping strategies, and uplifting your self-image. Together, we can foster meaningful connections and build supportive relationships as you progress on your healing journey. I provide Telehealth therapy services for individuals, couples, and families in search of therapeutic support.
Embracing the journey to reclaim mastery over your life, I am dedicated to empowering you with positive ways to navigate through challenges and transform ineffective coping methods. With my assistance, you can embark on a path towards relieving mental health symptoms by embracing healthy lifestyle choices, adopting effective coping strategies, and uplifting your self-image. Together, we can foster meaningful connections and build supportive relationships as you progress on your healing journey. I provide Telehealth therapy services for individuals, couples, and families in search of therapeutic support.
(860) 479-6400 View (860) 479-6400
Photo of Stephanie Donofrio - Stephanie Donofrio,LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Stephanie Donofrio,LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Welcoming new clients! Are you feeling in many ways lost as an individual, lost in your relationship, lost at work or that life's expectations are going to break you? Do you often find yourself feeling alone, resentful or misunderstood? Do you have an inner critic that won't get out of your head? Tired of pretending things are fine? Do you feel like you forgot who you once were? ​Maybe you find yourself frequently conforming to other's expectations leaving you stuck and unsure of your own self identify.
Welcoming new clients! Are you feeling in many ways lost as an individual, lost in your relationship, lost at work or that life's expectations are going to break you? Do you often find yourself feeling alone, resentful or misunderstood? Do you have an inner critic that won't get out of your head? Tired of pretending things are fine? Do you feel like you forgot who you once were? ​Maybe you find yourself frequently conforming to other's expectations leaving you stuck and unsure of your own self identify.
(860) 269-6205 View (860) 269-6205
Photo of Yolanda Torrech, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Yolanda Torrech
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
Start. Restore. Heal. Hi, I would like to assist you in gaining control over your life, overcoming challenges and help reduce mental health symptoms by developing healthy life choices, improve self image and developing coping skills. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist intern and I can assist you in building positive relationships and connections. Change can be uncomfortable but possible. I am currently providing in person or Telehealth therapeutic services for individuals, couples and families seeking therapeutic support.
Start. Restore. Heal. Hi, I would like to assist you in gaining control over your life, overcoming challenges and help reduce mental health symptoms by developing healthy life choices, improve self image and developing coping skills. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist intern and I can assist you in building positive relationships and connections. Change can be uncomfortable but possible. I am currently providing in person or Telehealth therapeutic services for individuals, couples and families seeking therapeutic support.
(860) 901-2236 View (860) 901-2236
Photo of Jenna Rose Alcaraz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Jenna Rose Alcaraz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Jenna is a bilingual psychotherapist offering individual, group and family therapy in-person and online. She has served women, children and families for over 10 years as a therapist, doula, yoga practitioner and educator. Jenna holds a M.A. in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling and postgraduate certificate in Expressive Arts. She is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and extensively trained in yoga and mindfulness. She lives her life by the same principles she employs in therapy. She strives to see the true potential in herself and others while doing her best to be present and hold empathic space for all.
Jenna is a bilingual psychotherapist offering individual, group and family therapy in-person and online. She has served women, children and families for over 10 years as a therapist, doula, yoga practitioner and educator. Jenna holds a M.A. in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling and postgraduate certificate in Expressive Arts. She is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and extensively trained in yoga and mindfulness. She lives her life by the same principles she employs in therapy. She strives to see the true potential in herself and others while doing her best to be present and hold empathic space for all.
(860) 847-7681 View (860) 847-7681
Photo of Dr. Yacihuilca Moní, Psychologist
Dr. Yacihuilca Moní
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Yacihuilca Moní, a licensed clinical psychologist in MA and CT, dedicated to supporting individuals across their lifespan. With a passion for providing compassionate care, I have worked extensively with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. My therapeutic toolkit includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailored to meet each client's unique needs. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Yacihuilca Moní, a licensed clinical psychologist in MA and CT, dedicated to supporting individuals across their lifespan. With a passion for providing compassionate care, I have worked extensively with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. My therapeutic toolkit includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailored to meet each client's unique needs. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(860) 431-2738 View (860) 431-2738

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newington, CT

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Newington, CT who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Coping Skills
77% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
69% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% HUSKY Health
82% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Newington, CT see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newington?

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.