Therapists in Frankfort, KY

Photo of Laura Marie Best, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Laura Marie Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
I have been working as a counselor since 1999 in various clinical settings. I have experience and enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
I have been working as a counselor since 1999 in various clinical settings. I have experience and enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(859) 759-0226 View (859) 759-0226
Photo of John Thacker, Counselor, MRC, LPCC-S
John Thacker
Counselor, MRC, LPCC-S
5 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Many people come to therapy feeling out of step with themselves—stuck in patterns, weighed down by stress, or pulled away from what matters most. My goal is to help you realign with your values and your true self, so you can move through life with more clarity, balance, and purpose. I earned my bachelor’s in Psychology and my master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky. Since then, I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, trauma, and family or relationship challenges.
Many people come to therapy feeling out of step with themselves—stuck in patterns, weighed down by stress, or pulled away from what matters most. My goal is to help you realign with your values and your true self, so you can move through life with more clarity, balance, and purpose. I earned my bachelor’s in Psychology and my master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky. Since then, I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, trauma, and family or relationship challenges.
(502) 812-1903 View (502) 812-1903
Photo of Kristina Elizabeth Hayden, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Kristina Elizabeth Hayden
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
3 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
I work with adolescents, adults, children, couples, families, and groups. As a counselor, I believe the most important element in treatment is the relationship between the therapist and the client. Utilizing this relationship we can work together to address many of life's challenges. It is my goal to help clients learn coping skills in a supportive, warm and nonjudgmental environment. My experience includes working with trauma survivors, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders and family conflict while focusing on relapse prevention.
I work with adolescents, adults, children, couples, families, and groups. As a counselor, I believe the most important element in treatment is the relationship between the therapist and the client. Utilizing this relationship we can work together to address many of life's challenges. It is my goal to help clients learn coping skills in a supportive, warm and nonjudgmental environment. My experience includes working with trauma survivors, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders and family conflict while focusing on relapse prevention.
(859) 648-0542 View (859) 648-0542
Photo of William Back, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
William Back
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Frankfort, KY 40601
William David Back earned his master’s degree in education and his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Kentucky. He has over 9 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. His specialty areas include anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), seasonal affective disorder and substance use. He has training in and utilizes eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). He sees adolescents and adults for individual, couples and family therapy.
William David Back earned his master’s degree in education and his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Kentucky. He has over 9 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. His specialty areas include anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), seasonal affective disorder and substance use. He has training in and utilizes eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). He sees adolescents and adults for individual, couples and family therapy.
(502) 680-8693 View (502) 680-8693
Photo of Sophia Nguyen, Counselor, LPCA
Sophia Nguyen
Counselor, LPCA
Frankfort, KY 40601
Life can feel overwhelming, leaving you stuck, anxious, or unsure of what to do next. You might even feel frustrated that nothing seems to help. What you want is relief and a way to feel like yourself again.
Life can feel overwhelming, leaving you stuck, anxious, or unsure of what to do next. You might even feel frustrated that nothing seems to help. What you want is relief and a way to feel like yourself again.
(502) 317-2029 View (502) 317-2029
Photo of Chelsea Conner - Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hello and welcome to our Frankfort location at Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry! Our address is 105 Diagnostic Drive Suite B, Frankfort, KY 40601. We have continued to grow to best serve your needs. Our LCP Frankfort office has 10 counselors, therapists, and nurse practitioners who are here to provide counseling, therapy, psychological, and psychiatric services to all ages. We are committed to helping you! We care about our professional roles and the people we serve. We help all ages and most every mental health and life issue. Our goal is your success and well being!
Hello and welcome to our Frankfort location at Lexington Counseling & Psychiatry! Our address is 105 Diagnostic Drive Suite B, Frankfort, KY 40601. We have continued to grow to best serve your needs. Our LCP Frankfort office has 10 counselors, therapists, and nurse practitioners who are here to provide counseling, therapy, psychological, and psychiatric services to all ages. We are committed to helping you! We care about our professional roles and the people we serve. We help all ages and most every mental health and life issue. Our goal is your success and well being!
(502) 317-1596 View (502) 317-1596
Photo of Dennis Hall - Panacea Healthcare, Counselor, LCADC, LPCA, CADC, CCS
Panacea Healthcare
Counselor, LCADC, LPCA, CADC, CCS
Frankfort, KY 40601
I see my role as a therapist as one of transferring fundamental knowledge while cultivating critical thinking skills by applying theory and concepts to current health-, economic, - and industry-related issues. Through this application, areas that are void of knowledge will ultimately emerge. I offer an authentic presence within a collaborative, understanding relationship in which self-discovery can be non-threatening. I believe in practicing rigorously authenticity, surrounding the outcome, and doing uncomfortable work to reach the goals that we all want to achieve in life.
I see my role as a therapist as one of transferring fundamental knowledge while cultivating critical thinking skills by applying theory and concepts to current health-, economic, - and industry-related issues. Through this application, areas that are void of knowledge will ultimately emerge. I offer an authentic presence within a collaborative, understanding relationship in which self-discovery can be non-threatening. I believe in practicing rigorously authenticity, surrounding the outcome, and doing uncomfortable work to reach the goals that we all want to achieve in life.
(502) 251-8255 View (502) 251-8255
Photo of Virginia Marshall, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CIMHP
Virginia Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CIMHP
Online Only
You’re smart, capable, and people rely on you. But your brain feels loud, scattered, or overwhelmed. You’re tired of trying to keep up with a world that doesn’t fit how you think. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD or traits of autism, who have spent years masking, overcompensating, or feeling different without fully understanding why. Therapy with me isn’t stiff or overly clinical. It’s a space where you can show up as you are. Messy thoughts, racing mind, shutdown days and all. You don’t have to have the “right words” or a clear plan. We’ll figure it out together.
You’re smart, capable, and people rely on you. But your brain feels loud, scattered, or overwhelmed. You’re tired of trying to keep up with a world that doesn’t fit how you think. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD or traits of autism, who have spent years masking, overcompensating, or feeling different without fully understanding why. Therapy with me isn’t stiff or overly clinical. It’s a space where you can show up as you are. Messy thoughts, racing mind, shutdown days and all. You don’t have to have the “right words” or a clear plan. We’ll figure it out together.
(502) 842-4649 View (502) 842-4649
Photo of Niha Mahboob, Licensed Professional Counselor
Niha Mahboob
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Hello everyone! My name is Neha Mahboob and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) for the State of Kentucky. There are many things about me that one can know, but not enough space for me to fill in. Curious? Just ask and I shall answer. I will say I am a passionate advocate for mental health and a firm believer in speaking about and understanding emotions and how they affect our behaviors. I am optimistic for change. In my free time, I love to read, write poetry, watch TV, and travel.
Hello everyone! My name is Neha Mahboob and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) for the State of Kentucky. There are many things about me that one can know, but not enough space for me to fill in. Curious? Just ask and I shall answer. I will say I am a passionate advocate for mental health and a firm believer in speaking about and understanding emotions and how they affect our behaviors. I am optimistic for change. In my free time, I love to read, write poetry, watch TV, and travel.
(502) 503-5486 View (502) 503-5486
Photo of Kasey Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kasey Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hey there! Taking the first step toward therapy isn’t easy, and I want you to know-I see you. Living with ADHD (and everything that can come with it)- anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt) can feel like running a race with no finish line. But you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with adults and teens with ADHD who struggle with focus, motivation, emotional regulation, and self-worth. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and practical. Together, we’ll build strategies that actually work for you- whether that means tackling procrastination, managing relationships, or quieting that inner critic.
Hey there! Taking the first step toward therapy isn’t easy, and I want you to know-I see you. Living with ADHD (and everything that can come with it)- anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt) can feel like running a race with no finish line. But you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with adults and teens with ADHD who struggle with focus, motivation, emotional regulation, and self-worth. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and practical. Together, we’ll build strategies that actually work for you- whether that means tackling procrastination, managing relationships, or quieting that inner critic.
(502) 401-6626 View (502) 401-6626
Photo of Jessica Duval, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Jessica Duval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
2 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Waitlist for new clients
We all have an internal pressure cooker that holds strong feelings and repressed emotions. This is especially true with today’s adolescents and teenagers. When anxiety, fear, depression, and outside stressors fill their barometer up, they reach a boiling point of eruption that plays out in extreme anger, defiance, substance abuse, addictions to social media and screens, overeating, and other destructive behaviors.
We all have an internal pressure cooker that holds strong feelings and repressed emotions. This is especially true with today’s adolescents and teenagers. When anxiety, fear, depression, and outside stressors fill their barometer up, they reach a boiling point of eruption that plays out in extreme anger, defiance, substance abuse, addictions to social media and screens, overeating, and other destructive behaviors.
(502) 547-8033 View (502) 547-8033
Photo of Jamie Bell, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Jamie Bell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Jamie. In life, do you often feel as if you are driving alone down a dark road and are sometimes overcome with the burdens of everyday life? Is it hard for you to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that depression or anxiety is taking away your joy? Let me help you get that joy back. Seeking therapy can be scary but you are making the right choice. You are in the driver's seat. I am merely a passenger, with the necessary tools to assist you in finding the light at the end of the tunnel. I utilize an interpersonal approach that is specific to your needs to assess the situation and provide guidance along the way.
Hi there, I'm Jamie. In life, do you often feel as if you are driving alone down a dark road and are sometimes overcome with the burdens of everyday life? Is it hard for you to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that depression or anxiety is taking away your joy? Let me help you get that joy back. Seeking therapy can be scary but you are making the right choice. You are in the driver's seat. I am merely a passenger, with the necessary tools to assist you in finding the light at the end of the tunnel. I utilize an interpersonal approach that is specific to your needs to assess the situation and provide guidance along the way.
(502) 264-8007 View (502) 264-8007
Photo of Amanda Oerther, Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Amanda Oerther
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Frankfort, KY 40601
Dr. Oerther  earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from Spalding University. She has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and most recently completed an internship at the Vanderbilt University-Veterans Affairs Internship Consortium. Her clinical interests include psychological assessment, psychotherapy, anxiety disorders, trauma, mood disorders, supervision, advocacy issues and adjustment throughout the lifespan. She is a member of both the American and Kentucky Psychological Associations.
Dr. Oerther  earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from Spalding University. She has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and most recently completed an internship at the Vanderbilt University-Veterans Affairs Internship Consortium. Her clinical interests include psychological assessment, psychotherapy, anxiety disorders, trauma, mood disorders, supervision, advocacy issues and adjustment throughout the lifespan. She is a member of both the American and Kentucky Psychological Associations.
(502) 829-6614 View (502) 829-6614
Photo of Erin Hager, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCADC
Erin Hager
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCADC
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hello! My name is Erin Hager. Welcome to a space dedicated to your personal journey of healing and transformation. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Kentucky, I am here to support you through every step of your path towards wellness. Whether you are grappling with relationship challenges, navigating substance use concerns, have a loved one who struggles with some type of addiction, or seeking to understand and overcome deep-seated emotional struggles or trauma, know that you are not alone.
Hello! My name is Erin Hager. Welcome to a space dedicated to your personal journey of healing and transformation. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Kentucky, I am here to support you through every step of your path towards wellness. Whether you are grappling with relationship challenges, navigating substance use concerns, have a loved one who struggles with some type of addiction, or seeking to understand and overcome deep-seated emotional struggles or trauma, know that you are not alone.
(502) 430-3737 View (502) 430-3737
Photo of Lauren Hensley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Frankfort, KY 40601
Lauren is especially skilled in treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis, and trauma-related conditions. She has specialized expertise in EMDR therapy, addressing dissociation, attachment issues, trauma recovery, and substance use. Her clinical interventions include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques. These evidence-based approaches support patients in managing symptoms and fostering long-term emotional wellness.
Lauren is especially skilled in treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis, and trauma-related conditions. She has specialized expertise in EMDR therapy, addressing dissociation, attachment issues, trauma recovery, and substance use. Her clinical interventions include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques. These evidence-based approaches support patients in managing symptoms and fostering long-term emotional wellness.
(502) 490-3514 View (502) 490-3514
Photo of Shannon Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Shannon Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Frankfort, KY 40601
Shannon Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her bachelor's degree from Campbellsville University and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky. She has over 14 years of experience in outpatient, in-home, and school-based settings. She works with children, adolescents, families, and adults. She is trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, mindfulness practices, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Her treatment areas include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger management, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, teen substance abuse, self-harming, and stress from life events.
Shannon Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her bachelor's degree from Campbellsville University and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky. She has over 14 years of experience in outpatient, in-home, and school-based settings. She works with children, adolescents, families, and adults. She is trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, mindfulness practices, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Her treatment areas include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger management, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, teen substance abuse, self-harming, and stress from life events.
(502) 628-4193 View (502) 628-4193
Photo of Madison Moberly, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Madison Moberly
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Not accepting new clients
Simply put, life can be very difficult and challenging at times. My ultimate goal is to assist clients to find answers to their own questions during struggles they may encounter, while seeing themselves as the strong individuals they are. I hope to foster a positive therapeutic relationship and supportive environment that offers a safe place to allow clients to be who they truly are.
Simply put, life can be very difficult and challenging at times. My ultimate goal is to assist clients to find answers to their own questions during struggles they may encounter, while seeing themselves as the strong individuals they are. I hope to foster a positive therapeutic relationship and supportive environment that offers a safe place to allow clients to be who they truly are.
(502) 218-4299 View (502) 218-4299
Photo of Christine R. Straiker Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Christine R. Straiker Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
I believe, as a therapist and social worker, in the dignity and worth of every individual. I utilize a client-centered and empowerment based approach, that focuses on improving client self-perception and growth through the challenges they face. I work with my clients to identify goals, make positive changes, and build strong coping skills for the future, and overall lasting wellness. I have experience working with LGBTQI+ populations. I have experience working with adolescents and adults, with a variety of diagnosis, with a focus on family level systems and generational trauma.
I believe, as a therapist and social worker, in the dignity and worth of every individual. I utilize a client-centered and empowerment based approach, that focuses on improving client self-perception and growth through the challenges they face. I work with my clients to identify goals, make positive changes, and build strong coping skills for the future, and overall lasting wellness. I have experience working with LGBTQI+ populations. I have experience working with adolescents and adults, with a variety of diagnosis, with a focus on family level systems and generational trauma.
(502) 431-1784 View (502) 431-1784
Photo of Olivia Michael Crowdus, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, AA
Olivia Michael Crowdus
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, AA
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
I welcome clients of all ages, with a special focus on children, adolescents, and young adults who may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or weighed down by stress. This can include experiences with anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating concerns, or identity struggles. In therapy, we’ll explore new ways to cope, communicate, and feel more at ease using both creative approaches and evidence-based tools to support your growth.”
I welcome clients of all ages, with a special focus on children, adolescents, and young adults who may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or weighed down by stress. This can include experiences with anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating concerns, or identity struggles. In therapy, we’ll explore new ways to cope, communicate, and feel more at ease using both creative approaches and evidence-based tools to support your growth.”
(502) 509-9818 View (502) 509-9818
Photo of Dana Smeal, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Dana Smeal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Guiding couples and individuals toward healing, connection, and renewed hope. If you’re feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps, you don’t have to face it alone. I work with individuals, couples, and families to strengthen communication, heal emotional wounds, and foster deeper connection and peace.
Guiding couples and individuals toward healing, connection, and renewed hope. If you’re feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps, you don’t have to face it alone. I work with individuals, couples, and families to strengthen communication, heal emotional wounds, and foster deeper connection and peace.
(502) 461-1302 View (502) 461-1302

See more therapy options for Frankfort

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Frankfort, KY

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Frankfort, KY who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
63% Self Esteem
62% Life Transitions
61% Stress
59% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
77% Anthem
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Frankfort, KY see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Frankfort?

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.