Therapists in Laurel, MT

Photo of Heather Wilson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, MS, LAC
Heather Wilson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, MS, LAC
Laurel, MT 59044
Do you feel as though addiction has taken over your daily life? Are you required by the court to attend Prime For Life for a DUI or Minor in Possession? Do you need a safe, nonjudgmental environment to obtain education or addiction treatment? Do not be ashamed to initiate communication. Determine how I can assist you in living the life you rightfully deserve.
Do you feel as though addiction has taken over your daily life? Are you required by the court to attend Prime For Life for a DUI or Minor in Possession? Do you need a safe, nonjudgmental environment to obtain education or addiction treatment? Do not be ashamed to initiate communication. Determine how I can assist you in living the life you rightfully deserve.
(406) 296-5535 View (406) 296-5535
Photo of Danielle Richards - 406 Counseling Services, Counselor, MEd, LCPC
406 Counseling Services
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Laurel, MT 59044
I recognize how difficult it can be to allow someone into your world and seek help from an outside person. I appreciate the value in relationships and center my therapy practice around building strong relationships. My goal as your therapist is to work alongside you developing new skills and refreshing skills you forgot you had. Life is a journey filled with happiness and sorrow. Sometimes the difficulty experienced in life can lead a person feeling sad, lonely, agitated, hopeless and unsure of the future. Seeking counseling is just another journey in life. I am here to help you on that journey.
I recognize how difficult it can be to allow someone into your world and seek help from an outside person. I appreciate the value in relationships and center my therapy practice around building strong relationships. My goal as your therapist is to work alongside you developing new skills and refreshing skills you forgot you had. Life is a journey filled with happiness and sorrow. Sometimes the difficulty experienced in life can lead a person feeling sad, lonely, agitated, hopeless and unsure of the future. Seeking counseling is just another journey in life. I am here to help you on that journey.
(406) 926-0048 View (406) 926-0048
Photo of Laura Lekang, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Laura Lekang
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm all about creating a safe space for you to navigate life's toughest moments. I'm here to help you find your way through grief, loss, and the challenges of dementia. Whether you're grappling with the loss of a loved one, feeling lost in the fog of grief, or trying to make sense of the changes that dementia brings, you don't have to go through it alone. As a mental health therapist specializing in grief and loss, as well as dementia, I've walked alongside many individuals and families on their unique journeys. I also have personal experience with Alzheimer's disease as well as professional, so I've been on both sides.
I'm all about creating a safe space for you to navigate life's toughest moments. I'm here to help you find your way through grief, loss, and the challenges of dementia. Whether you're grappling with the loss of a loved one, feeling lost in the fog of grief, or trying to make sense of the changes that dementia brings, you don't have to go through it alone. As a mental health therapist specializing in grief and loss, as well as dementia, I've walked alongside many individuals and families on their unique journeys. I also have personal experience with Alzheimer's disease as well as professional, so I've been on both sides.
(970) 329-7293 View (970) 329-7293
Photo of Katlyn Gotschall, Counselor, MS, LCPC
Katlyn Gotschall
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Online Only
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act, and I am proud of you for getting started. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), I understand how difficult it can be to navigate stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and depression. My goal is to help you build a safe and open environment where you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Whether you're dealing with everyday stress or working through significant life transitions, I am here to support you.
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act, and I am proud of you for getting started. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), I understand how difficult it can be to navigate stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and depression. My goal is to help you build a safe and open environment where you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Whether you're dealing with everyday stress or working through significant life transitions, I am here to support you.
(406) 647-0310 View (406) 647-0310
Photo of Michael Darcy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michael Darcy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Michael! I am Licensed in California and Montana. I typically focus on improving the client's life satisfaction through talk therapy. I am a retired military and prior law enforcement which has exposed me to a unique and diverse population of people, although my private practice is not limited to these communities. My approach, I have been told is "relaxed," "easy-going," with a sense of "curiosity," while being direct when the need arises. My first priority is to create a therapeutic relationship of honesty and trust.
Hi there, I'm Michael! I am Licensed in California and Montana. I typically focus on improving the client's life satisfaction through talk therapy. I am a retired military and prior law enforcement which has exposed me to a unique and diverse population of people, although my private practice is not limited to these communities. My approach, I have been told is "relaxed," "easy-going," with a sense of "curiosity," while being direct when the need arises. My first priority is to create a therapeutic relationship of honesty and trust.
(406) 692-3555 View (406) 692-3555
Photo of Michelle Pinnow - Coffee Date Counseling Services - Michelle Pinnow, Counselor, LCPC, MAC, LAC
Coffee Date Counseling Services - Michelle Pinnow
Counselor, LCPC, MAC, LAC
Serves Area
My name is Michelle and I am the owner of Coffee Date Counseling Services, LLC. So why the name "Coffee Date Counseling Services"? No, I don’t do couples counseling or specialize in relationship advice. My vision for Coffee Date Counseling Services is tied directly to the experience that I hope to create for clients. Counseling should be a human experience, one in which you feel supported and connected as you wrestle with the vulnerability that typically leads someone to seek out support. The image of two people meeting and sharing experiences over coffee evokes in me the feelings I hope my clients experience after our sessions.
My name is Michelle and I am the owner of Coffee Date Counseling Services, LLC. So why the name "Coffee Date Counseling Services"? No, I don’t do couples counseling or specialize in relationship advice. My vision for Coffee Date Counseling Services is tied directly to the experience that I hope to create for clients. Counseling should be a human experience, one in which you feel supported and connected as you wrestle with the vulnerability that typically leads someone to seek out support. The image of two people meeting and sharing experiences over coffee evokes in me the feelings I hope my clients experience after our sessions.
(406) 564-4039 View (406) 564-4039
Photo of Brent J Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brent J Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with a diverse client population including those seeking health and behavior change, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, persistent life stressors, family discord, and adjustment issues related to chronic illness. In my experience, counseling requires attention to all areas of our lives, and the basis of successful counseling is a trusting and collaborative relationship with an objective therapist.
I enjoy working with a diverse client population including those seeking health and behavior change, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, persistent life stressors, family discord, and adjustment issues related to chronic illness. In my experience, counseling requires attention to all areas of our lives, and the basis of successful counseling is a trusting and collaborative relationship with an objective therapist.
(406) 795-1064 View (406) 795-1064
Photo of Cherish L Roberts - CrossWay Inc, Counselor, LCPC, LMFT
CrossWay Inc
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT
Serves Area
We desire to be the helping hands and feet to those in our community who courageously reach for help. We seek to be a model mental health agency known for its integrity, professionalism and uncompromising commitment to our clients. We recognize that the human experience, whether troublesome or fulfilling, has spiritual, social, psychological, and physical components and that life’s stresses vary from individual to individual.
We desire to be the helping hands and feet to those in our community who courageously reach for help. We seek to be a model mental health agency known for its integrity, professionalism and uncompromising commitment to our clients. We recognize that the human experience, whether troublesome or fulfilling, has spiritual, social, psychological, and physical components and that life’s stresses vary from individual to individual.
(406) 430-8379 View (406) 430-8379
Photo of Dennis William Muri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Dennis William Muri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for thirteen years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Trust is everything.
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for thirteen years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Trust is everything.
(406) 204-4896 View (406) 204-4896
Photo of Erin Bratsky - Brighter Sky Counseling, Inc., Counselor, MSW, LCPC
Brighter Sky Counseling, Inc.
Counselor, MSW, LCPC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Discover the healing space you deserve at Brighter Sky Counseling. Our team of 10 compassionate therapists is here to support you, whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, or major life transitions. We specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s obstacles with care and understanding. Let us match you with the therapist who best fits your goals and needs, providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore, grow, and embrace your authentic self. Together, we’ll work toward healing and brighter days ahead. Reach out today, your journey starts here.
Discover the healing space you deserve at Brighter Sky Counseling. Our team of 10 compassionate therapists is here to support you, whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, or major life transitions. We specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s obstacles with care and understanding. Let us match you with the therapist who best fits your goals and needs, providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore, grow, and embrace your authentic self. Together, we’ll work toward healing and brighter days ahead. Reach out today, your journey starts here.
(406) 295-8473 View (406) 295-8473
Photo of Kirsten Pett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kirsten Pett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
(406) 384-5788 View (406) 384-5788
Photo of Tammy Hanify, Counselor, LCPC, LAC
Tammy Hanify
Counselor, LCPC, LAC
Serves Area
My goal is to assist clients in recognizing and understanding what is troubling them, process emotions, identify solutions, and, ultimately, help them achieve their individual goals. I am available to help with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, life changes and stressors, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
My goal is to assist clients in recognizing and understanding what is troubling them, process emotions, identify solutions, and, ultimately, help them achieve their individual goals. I am available to help with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, life changes and stressors, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
(406) 413-9021 View (406) 413-9021
Photo of Wayne Dagel - Perspectives Counseling & Consulting, Counselor, LCPC
Perspectives Counseling & Consulting
Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
First generation descendant of the Blackfeet Tribe, I have over 20 years of experience in the therapeutic world. I kicked off my career as a consumer to Vocational Rehabilitation in 1996 after a motor vehicle accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury. I worked for the State of Montana as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for 8 years providing services to the Northern Cheyenne and Crow Reservations. I worked for Youth Dynamics Inc as a Therapeutic Group Home youth therapist. Currently, I am a private therapist providing a wide range of therapy services to adults, teens, and youth, including equine assisted therapy.
First generation descendant of the Blackfeet Tribe, I have over 20 years of experience in the therapeutic world. I kicked off my career as a consumer to Vocational Rehabilitation in 1996 after a motor vehicle accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury. I worked for the State of Montana as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for 8 years providing services to the Northern Cheyenne and Crow Reservations. I worked for Youth Dynamics Inc as a Therapeutic Group Home youth therapist. Currently, I am a private therapist providing a wide range of therapy services to adults, teens, and youth, including equine assisted therapy.
(406) 296-4543 View (406) 296-4543
Photo of Rainya Taylor, Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Rainya Taylor
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving yourself or the life of your family members(s). When we are struggling, seeking out support can be a humbling experience. Because of the growth that is possible in therapy, it is well worth the investment. I work with individuals, children, and families. I became a therapist to help people navigate through difficult experiences in life and to help make positive choices in order to live a healthier, happier life. I am committed to helping my clients find solutions to real life issues.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving yourself or the life of your family members(s). When we are struggling, seeking out support can be a humbling experience. Because of the growth that is possible in therapy, it is well worth the investment. I work with individuals, children, and families. I became a therapist to help people navigate through difficult experiences in life and to help make positive choices in order to live a healthier, happier life. I am committed to helping my clients find solutions to real life issues.
(406) 948-0063 View (406) 948-0063
Photo of Kelli G Mullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kelli G Mullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing therapy to individuals and families wishing for more support in life. Do you have anxiety, depression, trauma, family dysfunction, mood disorder or life stressors? I have expertise to treat these disorders using evidence based interventions. I invite you to meet and discuss your symptoms and own unique needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing therapy to individuals and families wishing for more support in life. Do you have anxiety, depression, trauma, family dysfunction, mood disorder or life stressors? I have expertise to treat these disorders using evidence based interventions. I invite you to meet and discuss your symptoms and own unique needs.
(406) 416-5286 View (406) 416-5286
Photo of Brittnee Olson, Counselor, LCPC
Brittnee Olson
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Life can get messy, especially when you’re trying to figure out who you are and where you’re headed. I’m here to help you sort through the stress, anxiety, and big emotions so you don’t have to do it alone. My style is supportive, down-to-earth, and focused on what you need. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or navigating a life change, we’ll work together to help you feel more grounded, understood, and in control.
Life can get messy, especially when you’re trying to figure out who you are and where you’re headed. I’m here to help you sort through the stress, anxiety, and big emotions so you don’t have to do it alone. My style is supportive, down-to-earth, and focused on what you need. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or navigating a life change, we’ll work together to help you feel more grounded, understood, and in control.
(406) 732-2721 View (406) 732-2721
Photo of Holly LaBrake, Counselor
Holly LaBrake
Counselor
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Holly LaBrake, a licensed therapist dedicated to helping you work through life’s challenges and build lasting emotional well-being. I currently serve Wyoming and Montana residents. I offer a safe, supportive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and self-esteem concerns, using a compassionate, individualized approach utilizing evidence-based methods like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy
Hello, I’m Holly LaBrake, a licensed therapist dedicated to helping you work through life’s challenges and build lasting emotional well-being. I currently serve Wyoming and Montana residents. I offer a safe, supportive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and self-esteem concerns, using a compassionate, individualized approach utilizing evidence-based methods like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy
(307) 313-1529 View (307) 313-1529
Photo of Mia Yegen, Counselor, LCPC
Mia Yegen
Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
Everyone has a story, and it is a powerful thing to be able to tell our story without shame. We all have chapters that are difficult to look back on, and when we can compassionately make the connection between our past and our present, we can begin to imagine what our next unwritten chapter might hold for us (and how we'd like to choose to get there). The more we embrace our story, and who we are right now, the more tools we have for navigating our next adventure, and I would love to help be a resource to do just that.
Everyone has a story, and it is a powerful thing to be able to tell our story without shame. We all have chapters that are difficult to look back on, and when we can compassionately make the connection between our past and our present, we can begin to imagine what our next unwritten chapter might hold for us (and how we'd like to choose to get there). The more we embrace our story, and who we are right now, the more tools we have for navigating our next adventure, and I would love to help be a resource to do just that.
(406) 521-7827 View (406) 521-7827
Photo of Lisa H Hjelmstad - Wellness Possebilities, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Wellness Possebilities
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
(406) 578-0646 View (406) 578-0646
Photo of Julie McMillin, Counselor, MS, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Julie McMillin
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Providing quality, flexible services to communities in Montana and Wyoming is at the forefront of my goals. I've worked in a variety of settings and levels of care including residential treatment facilities, therapeutic group homes, day treatment programs, mental health centers, community based services, school based services, in-home services, as a mentor and in a private practice. I meet with individuals, families or couples where they are at in the process of change. I encourage them to have a willingness to work on the issues they are facing. I believe in individualized treatment for all people.
Providing quality, flexible services to communities in Montana and Wyoming is at the forefront of my goals. I've worked in a variety of settings and levels of care including residential treatment facilities, therapeutic group homes, day treatment programs, mental health centers, community based services, school based services, in-home services, as a mentor and in a private practice. I meet with individuals, families or couples where they are at in the process of change. I encourage them to have a willingness to work on the issues they are facing. I believe in individualized treatment for all people.
(307) 240-5111 View (307) 240-5111

See more therapy options for Laurel

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Laurel, MT

40+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Laurel, MT who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
94% Social Anxiety
94% Health Anxiety
94% Driving Anxiety
88% Depression
86% Self Esteem
84% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% PacificSource
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Laurel, MT see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Laurel?

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.