Therapists in Lombard, IL

Photo of Robin Withrow, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Robin Withrow
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
Waitlist for new clients
I understand you may feel alone, as though no one can possibly get what you are going through. Having thoughts and feelings that confuse and frighten you. Feelings of being trapped in an endless spiral of doom. Fearing you will be stuck feeling this way forever. Isolating yourself from your loved ones. Having a Lack of interest in life, feeling fatigued and exhausted. Constant worry which makes sleeping difficult. Feeling overwhelmed and having thoughts of giving up.
I understand you may feel alone, as though no one can possibly get what you are going through. Having thoughts and feelings that confuse and frighten you. Feelings of being trapped in an endless spiral of doom. Fearing you will be stuck feeling this way forever. Isolating yourself from your loved ones. Having a Lack of interest in life, feeling fatigued and exhausted. Constant worry which makes sleeping difficult. Feeling overwhelmed and having thoughts of giving up.
(630) 451-8653 View (630) 451-8653
Photo of Anays L Guzman, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Anays L Guzman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Welcome! I strongly believe that every person's internal world contains an inconceivable depth that can only be recognized through inner exploration. Symptoms of distress such as anxiety, panic, depression, anger/resentment, trauma & its associated narratives, can keep us feeling stuck and deprived from a fulfilling life. Through dual commitment in our time together, the goal is to go from any level of internal dysfunction to internal cohesion.
Welcome! I strongly believe that every person's internal world contains an inconceivable depth that can only be recognized through inner exploration. Symptoms of distress such as anxiety, panic, depression, anger/resentment, trauma & its associated narratives, can keep us feeling stuck and deprived from a fulfilling life. Through dual commitment in our time together, the goal is to go from any level of internal dysfunction to internal cohesion.
(331) 207-9030 View (331) 207-9030
Photo of Meredith Raque, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Meredith Raque
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In a world that tells us to be independent and mask our pain, reaching out for help can feel like a weakness or failure. I am here to tell you that there is strength in vulnerability and that you are not alone. We are built for connection and cannot heal in isolation. You deserve to reconnect with your values, to develop nurturing relationships, and to live as your most authentic self. I believe you are the expert of your own experience, and that the client-therapist relationship is collaborative. We will work together to develop a transparent, curious, and caring environment where you can safely and creatively explore your goals.
In a world that tells us to be independent and mask our pain, reaching out for help can feel like a weakness or failure. I am here to tell you that there is strength in vulnerability and that you are not alone. We are built for connection and cannot heal in isolation. You deserve to reconnect with your values, to develop nurturing relationships, and to live as your most authentic self. I believe you are the expert of your own experience, and that the client-therapist relationship is collaborative. We will work together to develop a transparent, curious, and caring environment where you can safely and creatively explore your goals.
(872) 205-3804 View (872) 205-3804
Photo of Dimitria Vandarakis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lombard, IL
Dimitria Vandarakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
People are compassionate beings and I treat each with care, support and respect. Over the years, I have learned to treat the whole mind and whole body. I have learned you can not treat one without the other. Understanding the interconnectedness of the mind and body has been my life's passion. In the 24 years of providing clinical treatment, I take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy. I use an innovative array of therapies and techniques depending on your situation and way of learning. I believe every one experiences life differently and every one is a teacher to each other.
People are compassionate beings and I treat each with care, support and respect. Over the years, I have learned to treat the whole mind and whole body. I have learned you can not treat one without the other. Understanding the interconnectedness of the mind and body has been my life's passion. In the 24 years of providing clinical treatment, I take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy. I use an innovative array of therapies and techniques depending on your situation and way of learning. I believe every one experiences life differently and every one is a teacher to each other.
(630) 503-6686 View (630) 503-6686
Photo of Jenni Ford, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Jenni Ford
Counselor, LCPC, ART-BC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
Jenni strives to provide a safe and supportive environment for counseling services, both in person at our office in Lombard and via telehealth. With a strengths-based approach, Jenni empowers her clients to make positive changes in their lives by focusing on their individual strengths and advocating for their needs. Jenni holds an MA in Counseling Psychology and is also a Board Certified Art Therapist.
Jenni strives to provide a safe and supportive environment for counseling services, both in person at our office in Lombard and via telehealth. With a strengths-based approach, Jenni empowers her clients to make positive changes in their lives by focusing on their individual strengths and advocating for their needs. Jenni holds an MA in Counseling Psychology and is also a Board Certified Art Therapist.
(630) 534-9514 View (630) 534-9514
Photo of Pamela Johnson, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Pamela Johnson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CHT, HTCP, VSTCP
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
It is my life's purpose and passion to help others live meaningful and Joy-filled lives. I have invested many years in my own self-healing, growth, and professional development. Successful therapy draws upon the quality of the therapeutic relationship. I value the time you are spending as you make this very important decision for yourself. Together, let's explore the mental, emotional, spiritual, and behavioral patterns which are interfering with your ability to maintain harmony within yourself, and in your relationships with others. Come to create the shift you need to blossom into the fullest expressions of your authenticity.
It is my life's purpose and passion to help others live meaningful and Joy-filled lives. I have invested many years in my own self-healing, growth, and professional development. Successful therapy draws upon the quality of the therapeutic relationship. I value the time you are spending as you make this very important decision for yourself. Together, let's explore the mental, emotional, spiritual, and behavioral patterns which are interfering with your ability to maintain harmony within yourself, and in your relationships with others. Come to create the shift you need to blossom into the fullest expressions of your authenticity.
(708) 695-8154 View (708) 695-8154
Photo of Colleen Llacsa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lombard, IL
Colleen Llacsa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
There is HOPE. Things can Change. Your life can get better and you can feel peace and joy again. You are not alone in your pain and your suffering. I know sometimes things feel like they will never get better and they will always be this way. If you are looking to find hope and to change your life I am here to help you. I know that you can do this. Asking for help is the start of a new beginning for you and your life. You don’t have to do this part alone.
There is HOPE. Things can Change. Your life can get better and you can feel peace and joy again. You are not alone in your pain and your suffering. I know sometimes things feel like they will never get better and they will always be this way. If you are looking to find hope and to change your life I am here to help you. I know that you can do this. Asking for help is the start of a new beginning for you and your life. You don’t have to do this part alone.
(331) 276-6355 View (331) 276-6355
Photo of Patrick Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lombard, IL
Patrick Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Trauma is something that happens to all of us, we often times don’t even realize it has occurred or how it is present affecting us. I am here to work with you and aid you in figuring out what trauma may mean for you and how you can become empowered. I am trained therapist in sex addiction and operate under the mindset that addictive behaviors can be the result of past trauma. welcome any gender that is seeking support in sex addiction, porn addiction, PTSD, anxiety/depression and relationship issues.
Trauma is something that happens to all of us, we often times don’t even realize it has occurred or how it is present affecting us. I am here to work with you and aid you in figuring out what trauma may mean for you and how you can become empowered. I am trained therapist in sex addiction and operate under the mindset that addictive behaviors can be the result of past trauma. welcome any gender that is seeking support in sex addiction, porn addiction, PTSD, anxiety/depression and relationship issues.
(331) 258-3600 View (331) 258-3600
Photo of Shelley Burns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lombard, IL
Shelley Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Hi! I am here to create a safe and supportive space for you. My goal is to empower you to experience long-term growth, utilizing strength-focused, trauma-informed, and evidence-based therapy. Main clinical areas I treat are depression, anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem, school challenges, interpersonal conflict, life transitions, trauma, and stress. My approach with youth is derived from training in Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, CBT, and play therapy. Using these techniques, I develop an understanding of each person’s internal and external world to identify the earliest point of change and facilitate improved functioning.
Hi! I am here to create a safe and supportive space for you. My goal is to empower you to experience long-term growth, utilizing strength-focused, trauma-informed, and evidence-based therapy. Main clinical areas I treat are depression, anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem, school challenges, interpersonal conflict, life transitions, trauma, and stress. My approach with youth is derived from training in Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, CBT, and play therapy. Using these techniques, I develop an understanding of each person’s internal and external world to identify the earliest point of change and facilitate improved functioning.
(331) 259-8601 View (331) 259-8601
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, Psychologist in Lombard, IL
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(331) 207-1933 View (331) 207-1933
Photo of Jill Kiley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lombard, IL
Jill Kiley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
I provide client-centered therapeutic services to adults 18 years and older. I commonly help with concerns related to anxiety, depression, ptsd, ocd, and addictions. I utilize a flexible, strengths-based approach with a variety of evidence based interventions depending on the unique needs of each individual. I am a seasoned clinician with diverse work experiences. I have worked as a therapist in a residential treatment program specializing in OCD/Anxiety/Substance Abuse, as an outpatient mental health therapist for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and as a case manager working with older adults in community mental health.
I provide client-centered therapeutic services to adults 18 years and older. I commonly help with concerns related to anxiety, depression, ptsd, ocd, and addictions. I utilize a flexible, strengths-based approach with a variety of evidence based interventions depending on the unique needs of each individual. I am a seasoned clinician with diverse work experiences. I have worked as a therapist in a residential treatment program specializing in OCD/Anxiety/Substance Abuse, as an outpatient mental health therapist for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and as a case manager working with older adults in community mental health.
(630) 426-7321 View (630) 426-7321
Photo of Judy Rudny LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lombard, IL
Judy Rudny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
If you are feeling confused or frustrated, helpless, angry or isolated, schedule a time to talk with me about strategies that will empower you to work toward identified goals and bring balance back into your life. With certified professionalism, I will attentively listen to your specific situation and goals, and intelligently advise you along a path to an improved quality of life. Phone or FaceTime sessions available.
If you are feeling confused or frustrated, helpless, angry or isolated, schedule a time to talk with me about strategies that will empower you to work toward identified goals and bring balance back into your life. With certified professionalism, I will attentively listen to your specific situation and goals, and intelligently advise you along a path to an improved quality of life. Phone or FaceTime sessions available.
(630) 733-1640 View (630) 733-1640
Photo of Cameren Rutz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lombard, IL
Cameren Rutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
I strongly believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Life is unpredictable and everyone will experience struggles and want to learn how to self-improve or process the past. We are all human and things can be overwhelming to try to get through on our own. As a therapist, I encourage clients to reconnect with their values, explore passions, and restore inner healing with hope for the future. I can empathize with feeling lost, stuck, or struggling to develop healthier habits. I am here to support you and remind you to celebrate even the small things.
I strongly believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Life is unpredictable and everyone will experience struggles and want to learn how to self-improve or process the past. We are all human and things can be overwhelming to try to get through on our own. As a therapist, I encourage clients to reconnect with their values, explore passions, and restore inner healing with hope for the future. I can empathize with feeling lost, stuck, or struggling to develop healthier habits. I am here to support you and remind you to celebrate even the small things.
(630) 354-0978 View (630) 354-0978
Photo of Stella M Nicholson, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Stella M Nicholson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CAADC, MAC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Ms. Nicholson is a private practitioner and president of Stella M. Nicholson and Associates, Lombard, Illinois where she counsels Adult Children of Alcoholics/Co-dependants, alcoholics/addicts, couples, and specializes in the treatment of families and children. She has worked in the addiction and mental health field since 1978. In addition to her practice, Ms. Nicholson has served as a consultant/trainer to numerous treatment facilities, mental health organizations, hospitals, schools and institutions regarding program development and implementation Her commitment is to help people to put the pieces of their lives together again Ms. Nicholson has also authored two workbooks.
Ms. Nicholson is a private practitioner and president of Stella M. Nicholson and Associates, Lombard, Illinois where she counsels Adult Children of Alcoholics/Co-dependants, alcoholics/addicts, couples, and specializes in the treatment of families and children. She has worked in the addiction and mental health field since 1978. In addition to her practice, Ms. Nicholson has served as a consultant/trainer to numerous treatment facilities, mental health organizations, hospitals, schools and institutions regarding program development and implementation Her commitment is to help people to put the pieces of their lives together again Ms. Nicholson has also authored two workbooks.
(708) 620-2236 View (708) 620-2236
Photo of Michelle Lawrence in Lombard, IL
Michelle Lawrence
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Waitlist for new clients
Appointments for new clients are available now! Do you need help with relationship struggles? I provide a warm and open approach to counseling individuals, families, and couples. I have experience helping with parental conflicts, self-esteem, and parent-child relationships.
Appointments for new clients are available now! Do you need help with relationship struggles? I provide a warm and open approach to counseling individuals, families, and couples. I have experience helping with parental conflicts, self-esteem, and parent-child relationships.
(630) 869-6819 View (630) 869-6819
Photo of Emily Myers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lombard, IL
Emily Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I believe that therapy can be the key to unlocking your higher self, regardless of your place in life. Human beings have incredible capabilities but that can be difficult to discover on your own while facing life’s challenges. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, life transitions, academic stress, relationship issues, parenting, body image and eating issues, sexual and gender identity, trauma and more. I work with individual clients and couples of all ages and backgrounds with a non-judgmental and compassionate approach to identify and meet your unique needs and goals in therapy and beyond.
I believe that therapy can be the key to unlocking your higher self, regardless of your place in life. Human beings have incredible capabilities but that can be difficult to discover on your own while facing life’s challenges. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, life transitions, academic stress, relationship issues, parenting, body image and eating issues, sexual and gender identity, trauma and more. I work with individual clients and couples of all ages and backgrounds with a non-judgmental and compassionate approach to identify and meet your unique needs and goals in therapy and beyond.
(331) 246-0234 View (331) 246-0234
Photo of Connie B. Natvig, Ph.D., PC, Psychologist in Lombard, IL
Connie B. Natvig, Ph.D., PC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Welcome. I currently have daytime openings in my Lombard office. Most people come to me with a problem that keeps them from enjoying their life: an old hurt that hasn't healed, or a new challenging stage in life. Together, we discover what is causing the pain and the changes that need to take place to get what they want. I work with mood, anxiety and life transitions such as birth of a child, divorce, beginning a training program, or career change. Also, I enjoy providing psychotherapy to mental health trainees.
Welcome. I currently have daytime openings in my Lombard office. Most people come to me with a problem that keeps them from enjoying their life: an old hurt that hasn't healed, or a new challenging stage in life. Together, we discover what is causing the pain and the changes that need to take place to get what they want. I work with mood, anxiety and life transitions such as birth of a child, divorce, beginning a training program, or career change. Also, I enjoy providing psychotherapy to mental health trainees.
(331) 246-0966 View (331) 246-0966
Photo of Tom Stamas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lombard, IL
Tom Stamas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148  (Online Only)
When life is challenging it can be hard to know what to do or where to turn to. You feel worried, angry, or sad. You don't think you're "good enough." It's hard to get things done. You can't let loose and fully enjoy life. You might be struggling with an addiction. You aren't where you thought you'd be at this point in time and you know you’re capable of so much more. You want fulfillment, success, fun, money, and love. I can help. I am a collaborative, caring therapist. Together we will identify your needs and learn to take action to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals to make your life happy, comfortable, and meaningful.
When life is challenging it can be hard to know what to do or where to turn to. You feel worried, angry, or sad. You don't think you're "good enough." It's hard to get things done. You can't let loose and fully enjoy life. You might be struggling with an addiction. You aren't where you thought you'd be at this point in time and you know you’re capable of so much more. You want fulfillment, success, fun, money, and love. I can help. I am a collaborative, caring therapist. Together we will identify your needs and learn to take action to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals to make your life happy, comfortable, and meaningful.
(630) 426-7293 View (630) 426-7293
Photo of Liz Barta, Counselor in Lombard, IL
Liz Barta
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
I believe psychotherapy is a deep process that offers clients the space to examine their life with curiosity, compassion, and intention. Sometimes clients come in needing assistance with one specific issue, while others are needing someone to walk through a difficult season of life with them. I am deeply passionate about providing support for folks wherever they are in their journey. Specifically, I feel called to work with young adults. I believe it’s a potent time in life – trying to find your direction, calling, and soul's purpose in this world.
I believe psychotherapy is a deep process that offers clients the space to examine their life with curiosity, compassion, and intention. Sometimes clients come in needing assistance with one specific issue, while others are needing someone to walk through a difficult season of life with them. I am deeply passionate about providing support for folks wherever they are in their journey. Specifically, I feel called to work with young adults. I believe it’s a potent time in life – trying to find your direction, calling, and soul's purpose in this world.
(331) 253-4925 View (331) 253-4925
Photo of Faida Sahouri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lombard, IL
Faida Sahouri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Guiding people through difficult times is a virtue of therapy that drew me to this profession. As a counselor, I want to help you to overcome challenges and become the person you hope to become. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach when working with clients. I believe all people have inner strengths, wisdom, and resources, and I want to help you achieve your goals and build connections. I am passionate about navigating your way through self-discovery, personal relationships, and finding resilience within yourself.
Guiding people through difficult times is a virtue of therapy that drew me to this profession. As a counselor, I want to help you to overcome challenges and become the person you hope to become. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach when working with clients. I believe all people have inner strengths, wisdom, and resources, and I want to help you achieve your goals and build connections. I am passionate about navigating your way through self-discovery, personal relationships, and finding resilience within yourself.
(331) 260-0603 View (331) 260-0603

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lombard, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Lombard, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
81% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Aetna
58% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Lombard, IL see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lombard?

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.