Photo of Taisha Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Taisha Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you are here and have made a courageous choice to seek healing. Like our physical health, I believe we must also take into consideration the “vital signs” (mood swings, sadness, irritability, excessive worry, etc.) that indicate the state of our mental health. Whether it is caused by stress from overwhelming responsibilities, parenting, past trauma, or even just having difficulty communicating needs to family members and friends, I believe these can all be signs that we need a little extra support and I would like to be that support for you.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you are here and have made a courageous choice to seek healing. Like our physical health, I believe we must also take into consideration the “vital signs” (mood swings, sadness, irritability, excessive worry, etc.) that indicate the state of our mental health. Whether it is caused by stress from overwhelming responsibilities, parenting, past trauma, or even just having difficulty communicating needs to family members and friends, I believe these can all be signs that we need a little extra support and I would like to be that support for you.
(562) 203-8884 View (562) 203-8884
Photo of Desiree Marni Bramlett, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Desiree Marni Bramlett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755
Do you need a safe place to talk where you feel completely accepted? Or are you overwhelmed and need more peace? You have come to the right place because we will help you find what you are looking for. Once this is established and we have identified what might be interfering with what you're wanting, I will begin to gently push when necessary to help you move through your stuck points. An adequate level of structure will be provided as well as a recap each week and HW. Therapy doesn't just happen in session!
Do you need a safe place to talk where you feel completely accepted? Or are you overwhelmed and need more peace? You have come to the right place because we will help you find what you are looking for. Once this is established and we have identified what might be interfering with what you're wanting, I will begin to gently push when necessary to help you move through your stuck points. An adequate level of structure will be provided as well as a recap each week and HW. Therapy doesn't just happen in session!
(213) 817-5061 View (213) 817-5061
Photo of Amanda Carrera, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Amanda Carrera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755  (Online Only)
Amanda Carrera is an experienced clinician whose background includes working with teens/families at a community clinic, working in a school setting with teens from diverse backgrounds with various behavioral issues ranging from ages 13-18, and her own private practice for the past 5 years working with teens and adults.
Amanda Carrera is an experienced clinician whose background includes working with teens/families at a community clinic, working in a school setting with teens from diverse backgrounds with various behavioral issues ranging from ages 13-18, and her own private practice for the past 5 years working with teens and adults.
(562) 278-0764 View (562) 278-0764
Photo of Jeffrey Salinas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Jeffrey Salinas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
Is this you? All we do is fight! It seems like we never hear each other and neither of us listens anymore! It is so frustrating I do not want to come home and try. I have been successfully helping couples to develop the tools necessary to communicate effectively for more than 20 years. Having disagreements is not unusual. Learning how to resolve disagreements is a key element to healthy relationships. Conflict resolution is about learning to fight fairly by listening in an atmosphere of Respect, Trust, Safety and love and not placing my desire to be right over the relationship. $185 per 50-minute session. Discounted rates apt.11-4
Is this you? All we do is fight! It seems like we never hear each other and neither of us listens anymore! It is so frustrating I do not want to come home and try. I have been successfully helping couples to develop the tools necessary to communicate effectively for more than 20 years. Having disagreements is not unusual. Learning how to resolve disagreements is a key element to healthy relationships. Conflict resolution is about learning to fight fairly by listening in an atmosphere of Respect, Trust, Safety and love and not placing my desire to be right over the relationship. $185 per 50-minute session. Discounted rates apt.11-4
(562) 285-6359 View (562) 285-6359
Photo of Jana M. Sadler, Psychologist in 90755, CA
Jana M. Sadler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755  (Online Only)
I specialize in Child and Adolescent therapy, as well as Individual, and Family therapy. My focus is to assist with personal growth and address concerns such as loss and grief, anxiety, and depression. I take pride in providing a safe and nurturing environment where individuals who identify as QTPOC, POC, and/or LGBTQ, feel seen and heard where the focus is on their healing and success. My goal is to help one discover resiliency and begin the journey to healing and overcoming barriers. Through empowerment and support I want to help you discover what is best for you, being your true and authentic self.
I specialize in Child and Adolescent therapy, as well as Individual, and Family therapy. My focus is to assist with personal growth and address concerns such as loss and grief, anxiety, and depression. I take pride in providing a safe and nurturing environment where individuals who identify as QTPOC, POC, and/or LGBTQ, feel seen and heard where the focus is on their healing and success. My goal is to help one discover resiliency and begin the journey to healing and overcoming barriers. Through empowerment and support I want to help you discover what is best for you, being your true and authentic self.
(562) 392-8941 View (562) 392-8941
Photo of Gabriel Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Gabriel Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755  (Online Only)
Come visit my site: www.blissfullifetherapy.com Struggling with a relationship? Feel like you're stuck in a funk? Do you feel like you and your partner have the same arguments, and you're both getting tired of it? Maybe you are looking to bolster communication as you get ready to strengthen your commitment to each other? If you are ready to take your relationship to the next level and want to learn how to improve your communication and be happier, call me now! My name is Gabriel, "Gabe," Cohen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 85601) and I am here to help.
Come visit my site: www.blissfullifetherapy.com Struggling with a relationship? Feel like you're stuck in a funk? Do you feel like you and your partner have the same arguments, and you're both getting tired of it? Maybe you are looking to bolster communication as you get ready to strengthen your commitment to each other? If you are ready to take your relationship to the next level and want to learn how to improve your communication and be happier, call me now! My name is Gabriel, "Gabe," Cohen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 85601) and I am here to help.
(424) 336-9075 View (424) 336-9075
Photo of Nicole Barnes-Hinkson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90755, CA
Nicole Barnes-Hinkson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755  (Online Only)
I empower individuals and couples to find relief and achieve goals. Don't face difficult situations alone or continue actions that bring poor outcomes. Use my comfortable and interactive style to help you relax, vent, identify barriers to success, develop new patterns, and find a path towards work and personal satisfaction.
I empower individuals and couples to find relief and achieve goals. Don't face difficult situations alone or continue actions that bring poor outcomes. Use my comfortable and interactive style to help you relax, vent, identify barriers to success, develop new patterns, and find a path towards work and personal satisfaction.
(424) 732-3125 View (424) 732-3125
Photo of Reina Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Reina Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755  (Online Only)
Throughout my personal and professional experiences I have learned that struggles can take many different forms in life and look very different for different people; but at the core I believe we all want the same thing: to feel supported through the pain, heartache, anxiety, depression, trauma, or whatever devastation those struggles bring to our lives. I am here to be that support for YOU! I am here to help you process through past traumas, manage current crises, develop healthier coping mechanisms, feel empowered, and provide that safe space for you to share the story that you have feared sharing for far too long.
Throughout my personal and professional experiences I have learned that struggles can take many different forms in life and look very different for different people; but at the core I believe we all want the same thing: to feel supported through the pain, heartache, anxiety, depression, trauma, or whatever devastation those struggles bring to our lives. I am here to be that support for YOU! I am here to help you process through past traumas, manage current crises, develop healthier coping mechanisms, feel empowered, and provide that safe space for you to share the story that you have feared sharing for far too long.
(562) 564-6171 View (562) 564-6171
Photo of Zynette Joy Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Zynette Joy Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755
Do you look at your child and know that they have resources in themselves, talents and potential, but their anxiety and depression are getting in the way? Do you feel like you have used up your own resources, and you’re not sure what to do now? Over the course of more than 15 years as a children’s therapist, I’ve seen children go from struggling with anxiety, depression, peer relationships, parental relationships, and academics succeed by learning to tap into their own resources and talents. Most importantly, I’ve seen children learn to love themselves by embracing both their weaknesses and strengths.
Do you look at your child and know that they have resources in themselves, talents and potential, but their anxiety and depression are getting in the way? Do you feel like you have used up your own resources, and you’re not sure what to do now? Over the course of more than 15 years as a children’s therapist, I’ve seen children go from struggling with anxiety, depression, peer relationships, parental relationships, and academics succeed by learning to tap into their own resources and talents. Most importantly, I’ve seen children learn to love themselves by embracing both their weaknesses and strengths.
(562) 534-8829 View (562) 534-8829
Photo of Tayler Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90755, CA
Tayler Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755  (Online Only)
I have over 9 years of experience working with children, parents and families of various backgrounds. I strive to create a safe place for you to express your concerns, to feel heard and understood. My approach is very individualized based on your current needs. I am interested in the whole person (mind, body, and spirit).
I have over 9 years of experience working with children, parents and families of various backgrounds. I strive to create a safe place for you to express your concerns, to feel heard and understood. My approach is very individualized based on your current needs. I am interested in the whole person (mind, body, and spirit).
(562) 539-2499 View (562) 539-2499
Photo of Ana Arguello, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Ana Arguello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755
Hello and welcome! I have been in the psychology field seeing everyone and addressing almost everything! .Along the way I developed an expertise in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Rational Behavior Therapy. I also have extensive training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescence and Postpartum Depression. I am currently a Mental Health Consultant for the School District. I also spent 15 years working at an all male prison as a bilingual therapist. Please feel free to contact me and make a significant step in understanding yourself and improving your life!
Hello and welcome! I have been in the psychology field seeing everyone and addressing almost everything! .Along the way I developed an expertise in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Rational Behavior Therapy. I also have extensive training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescence and Postpartum Depression. I am currently a Mental Health Consultant for the School District. I also spent 15 years working at an all male prison as a bilingual therapist. Please feel free to contact me and make a significant step in understanding yourself and improving your life!
(562) 548-7758 View (562) 548-7758
Photo of Karina Perez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Karina Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Signal Hill, CA 90755  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe in my patient's ability to change and achieve their maximum level of strength. I have been working with a variety of diagnoses and issues, including Personality disorders, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, Grief, etc. I can help you process and work with your feelings, thoughts and behaviors, so you can find your very best self. I can provide support to understand and accept your mental health issues but also to find solutions and coping skills. I offer a non-judgmental, confidential and safe space for you to gain insight and to work towards goals.
I believe in my patient's ability to change and achieve their maximum level of strength. I have been working with a variety of diagnoses and issues, including Personality disorders, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, Grief, etc. I can help you process and work with your feelings, thoughts and behaviors, so you can find your very best self. I can provide support to understand and accept your mental health issues but also to find solutions and coping skills. I offer a non-judgmental, confidential and safe space for you to gain insight and to work towards goals.
(562) 523-7709 View (562) 523-7709
Photo of Daishea Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Daishea Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
(424) 232-0862 View (424) 232-0862
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 90755, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(310) 362-5485 View (310) 362-5485
Photo of Hong Jeong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90755, CA
Hong Jeong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
(424) 339-2653 View (424) 339-2653
Photo of Jennifer Lara, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 90755, CA
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(424) 220-4516 View (424) 220-4516
Photo of Mary Jordan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90755, CA
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
(424) 368-9336 View (424) 368-9336
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90755, CA
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(424) 340-5605 View (424) 340-5605
Photo of Christine Rivlin, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90755, CA
Christine Rivlin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(424) 401-7211 View (424) 401-7211
Photo of Jennie Nystrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90755, CA
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(213) 761-4246 View (213) 761-4246

See more therapy options for 90755

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90755

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 90755 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
83% Self Esteem
81% Trauma and PTSD
80% Coping Skills
76% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Cigna and Evernorth
68% Optum
61% Oxford

How Therapists in 90755 see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
32% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90755?

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.