Therapists in Hightstown, NJ

Photo of Kesha Cheron - Pathway to Mentality , PMHNP, LCSW
Pathway to Mentality
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking for comprehensive mental health care? At Pathway to Mentality, we offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, cannabis evaluations, psychotherapy, and more—all through convenient telehealth services. Our dedicated team creates a safe, supportive space for those seeking help with mental health issues, substance use, and psycho-social challenges. Serving teens and adults in New York and New Jersey, we’re committed to helping you achieve a happier, healthier life. Discover how we can support your journey to well-being today.
Looking for comprehensive mental health care? At Pathway to Mentality, we offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, cannabis evaluations, psychotherapy, and more—all through convenient telehealth services. Our dedicated team creates a safe, supportive space for those seeking help with mental health issues, substance use, and psycho-social challenges. Serving teens and adults in New York and New Jersey, we’re committed to helping you achieve a happier, healthier life. Discover how we can support your journey to well-being today.
(609) 881-1382 View (609) 881-1382
Photo of Rovin Chonielall, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Rovin Chonielall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Hightstown, NJ 08520
Are you struggling to manage your inner feelings and all of the stressors in your life? You can overcome your obstacles with the right therapist. I enjoy working with people who, like myself, are trying to face the many feelings that are sometimes difficult to stay present with.
Are you struggling to manage your inner feelings and all of the stressors in your life? You can overcome your obstacles with the right therapist. I enjoy working with people who, like myself, are trying to face the many feelings that are sometimes difficult to stay present with.
(609) 403-3152 View (609) 403-3152
Photo of Dr. Jayne Duncan, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Jayne Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You might be someone who feels things deeply - creative, thoughtful, and aware - but you're also stuck in a painful loop with food, your body, or your thoughts that you can’t seem to break. Maybe part of you knows these patterns aren’t helping anymore, but you don’t know who you are without them. Many of the people I work with learned to survive overwhelming experiences through eating disorder behaviors, self-destructive patterns, or relentless striving to be “just right.” You may feel disconnected from your body, trapped in obsessive cycles, or carrying a quiet sense of shame about how hard this actually feels.
You might be someone who feels things deeply - creative, thoughtful, and aware - but you're also stuck in a painful loop with food, your body, or your thoughts that you can’t seem to break. Maybe part of you knows these patterns aren’t helping anymore, but you don’t know who you are without them. Many of the people I work with learned to survive overwhelming experiences through eating disorder behaviors, self-destructive patterns, or relentless striving to be “just right.” You may feel disconnected from your body, trapped in obsessive cycles, or carrying a quiet sense of shame about how hard this actually feels.
(609) 849-3551 View (609) 849-3551
Photo of Rovin Chonielall, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rovin Chonielall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
You hold it together for everyone — at work, at home, in your relationships — but the weight of it is getting harder to carry. Maybe anxiety keeps your mind racing at 2 a.m., or you're stuck in patterns with substances or behaviors that started as coping but now feel like a trap. Maybe grief, trauma, or a painful chapter you thought you'd moved past keeps surfacing when you least expect it. I'm Rovin Chonielall, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Addiction Specialist with 15 years of experience helping adults find their footing when life feels unmanageable.
You hold it together for everyone — at work, at home, in your relationships — but the weight of it is getting harder to carry. Maybe anxiety keeps your mind racing at 2 a.m., or you're stuck in patterns with substances or behaviors that started as coping but now feel like a trap. Maybe grief, trauma, or a painful chapter you thought you'd moved past keeps surfacing when you least expect it. I'm Rovin Chonielall, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Addiction Specialist with 15 years of experience helping adults find their footing when life feels unmanageable.
(609) 918-4606 View (609) 918-4606
Photo of Elizabeth Almoguera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Almoguera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, or relationship challenges? I'm Elizabeth, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Holistic Counseling Solution, and I work with children, teens, and adults seeking support through life's challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck, navigating a difficult transition, or looking for healthier ways to cope, I provide a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard and supported. Together, we'll build confidence, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, or relationship challenges? I'm Elizabeth, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Holistic Counseling Solution, and I work with children, teens, and adults seeking support through life's challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck, navigating a difficult transition, or looking for healthier ways to cope, I provide a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard and supported. Together, we'll build confidence, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.
(848) 308-7597 View (848) 308-7597
Photo of Sandra Keller-Hojecki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sandra Keller-Hojecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hightstown, NJ 08520
I have over 12 years experience treating adolescents and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds. I believe therapy should be a collaborative partnership in which we work together to restore healthy functioning. We will identify triggers and destructive behavior patterns that contribute to emotional stress. We can then work together to develop constructive coping skills tailored to your specific clinical needs. My counseling style is one of compassion and support. I strive to create a comfortable environment in which clients feel free to express who they are and how they feel without fear of judgement or rejection.
I have over 12 years experience treating adolescents and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds. I believe therapy should be a collaborative partnership in which we work together to restore healthy functioning. We will identify triggers and destructive behavior patterns that contribute to emotional stress. We can then work together to develop constructive coping skills tailored to your specific clinical needs. My counseling style is one of compassion and support. I strive to create a comfortable environment in which clients feel free to express who they are and how they feel without fear of judgement or rejection.
(609) 454-0422 View (609) 454-0422
Photo of Lynne Zelch Butan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lynne Zelch Butan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hightstown, NJ 08520
I am a Columbia University trained licensed social worker who has been in private practice since 2007. Throughout my development and training as a clinician, my priority has been to maintain a fresh and open empathic approach to helping individuals and couples. My ideal goal is to establish rapport and connect with others, so that they can ultimately help themselves. I value a safe, comfortable meeting space where people can relax and be themselves, so that they can feel better as soon as possible.
I am a Columbia University trained licensed social worker who has been in private practice since 2007. Throughout my development and training as a clinician, my priority has been to maintain a fresh and open empathic approach to helping individuals and couples. My ideal goal is to establish rapport and connect with others, so that they can ultimately help themselves. I value a safe, comfortable meeting space where people can relax and be themselves, so that they can feel better as soon as possible.
(609) 529-3480 View (609) 529-3480
Photo of Sandra Keller-Hojecki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sandra Keller-Hojecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hightstown, NJ 08520
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from Rutgers School of Social Work. I have over 25 years of experience treating clients from diverse backgrounds and across various generations. I believe in acting as a guide as opposed to a leader and as such I am always open to my clients’ preferences or suggestions regarding how to proceed with treatment. I work in collaboration with them as a means of empowering my clients to adopt a proactive, as opposed to reactive approach to their clinical challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from Rutgers School of Social Work. I have over 25 years of experience treating clients from diverse backgrounds and across various generations. I believe in acting as a guide as opposed to a leader and as such I am always open to my clients’ preferences or suggestions regarding how to proceed with treatment. I work in collaboration with them as a means of empowering my clients to adopt a proactive, as opposed to reactive approach to their clinical challenges.
(609) 891-3954 View (609) 891-3954
Photo of Catherine Jakobsze, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Catherine Jakobsze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
YOU can call me Cathy. I am an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). In many ways, there is still a stigma around receiving mental health services. For some, their previous experiences (or experiences of those close to them) have made it difficult to reach out for help. I’m here to tell you the field of mental health has evolved, much like I have as a psychotherapist throughout my career. During my studies at Monmouth University, I learned to pride myself on being authentic with clients, in and out of session.
YOU can call me Cathy. I am an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). In many ways, there is still a stigma around receiving mental health services. For some, their previous experiences (or experiences of those close to them) have made it difficult to reach out for help. I’m here to tell you the field of mental health has evolved, much like I have as a psychotherapist throughout my career. During my studies at Monmouth University, I learned to pride myself on being authentic with clients, in and out of session.
(732) 896-2692 View (732) 896-2692
Photo of Chloe L Colosimo, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Chloe L Colosimo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 25 years of experience specializing in addictions and trauma. I works primarily with individuals ages 13 and over facing challenges related to depression, anxiety/panic disorder, mood and personality disorders, interpersonal problems, self esteem, PTSD, trauma, grief, life transition, adjustment issues, stress management and substance abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 25 years of experience specializing in addictions and trauma. I works primarily with individuals ages 13 and over facing challenges related to depression, anxiety/panic disorder, mood and personality disorders, interpersonal problems, self esteem, PTSD, trauma, grief, life transition, adjustment issues, stress management and substance abuse.
(609) 375-0989 View (609) 375-0989
Photo of Jessica Marchese, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Jessica Marchese
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Does anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or personal beliefs negatively impact your life? Together, we can explore how past experiences shape your current belief system. We will work together to explore unhelpful thinking patterns and effectively managing stress and mental health symptoms. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness based practices into the treatment of substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Does anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or personal beliefs negatively impact your life? Together, we can explore how past experiences shape your current belief system. We will work together to explore unhelpful thinking patterns and effectively managing stress and mental health symptoms. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness based practices into the treatment of substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
(609) 619-0732 View (609) 619-0732
Photo of Taylor Marie Pickrell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Taylor Marie Pickrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Taylor Pickrell—a therapist, dog lover, and coffee enthusiast who believes life feels a little easier when we don’t have to go through it alone. My goal is to create a space where you can feel comfortable, understood, and supported while working toward a more balanced, well-rounded life.
Welcome! I'm Taylor Pickrell—a therapist, dog lover, and coffee enthusiast who believes life feels a little easier when we don’t have to go through it alone. My goal is to create a space where you can feel comfortable, understood, and supported while working toward a more balanced, well-rounded life.
(201) 831-7488 View (201) 831-7488
Photo of Elizabeth Maslowska, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC
Elizabeth Maslowska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC
Online Only
I specialize in working with teens and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Many of my clients are adjusting to big changes—such as the transition to college, increased independence, relationship challenges, or uncertainty about the future. Together, we work to better understand patterns that may be contributing to distress while building practical skills to help you cope more effectively.
I specialize in working with teens and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Many of my clients are adjusting to big changes—such as the transition to college, increased independence, relationship challenges, or uncertainty about the future. Together, we work to better understand patterns that may be contributing to distress while building practical skills to help you cope more effectively.
(609) 507-0510 View (609) 507-0510
Photo of Isabella VanLierop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Isabella VanLierop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Is your child having trouble managing their emotions and behaviors? Does it feel overwhelming and like nothing will ever change? If so, this is your time to put you and your family first by taking the next steps towards making life long changes. Your child and I will work together to address different emotional regulation, communication and executive functioning techniques. I will work to take a whole family approach including parents in sessions and any other outside resources needed. I hope that after our time together has concluded your child/family will have made those changes that once seemed impossible.
Is your child having trouble managing their emotions and behaviors? Does it feel overwhelming and like nothing will ever change? If so, this is your time to put you and your family first by taking the next steps towards making life long changes. Your child and I will work together to address different emotional regulation, communication and executive functioning techniques. I will work to take a whole family approach including parents in sessions and any other outside resources needed. I hope that after our time together has concluded your child/family will have made those changes that once seemed impossible.
(609) 293-5646 View (609) 293-5646
Photo of Maureen Costa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maureen Costa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
With over 20 years of experience in various settings. I've had the privilege to witness incredible transformations in people's lives. These experiences have in-turn transformed me into a person who believes that anyone, no matter what walk of life or troublesome situation, can indeed improve their quality of life. By simply updating some old modes of coping, thinking and behaving, one can reduce emotional symptoms and can replace them with a more complete sense of self. My approach is compassionate, collaborative and tailored to your unique story. Together we work to uncover strengths, develop new tools and create lasting change.
With over 20 years of experience in various settings. I've had the privilege to witness incredible transformations in people's lives. These experiences have in-turn transformed me into a person who believes that anyone, no matter what walk of life or troublesome situation, can indeed improve their quality of life. By simply updating some old modes of coping, thinking and behaving, one can reduce emotional symptoms and can replace them with a more complete sense of self. My approach is compassionate, collaborative and tailored to your unique story. Together we work to uncover strengths, develop new tools and create lasting change.
(848) 206-3742 View (848) 206-3742
Photo of Nancy A. Valentino - Nancy A. Valentino MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nancy A. Valentino MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I have over thirty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Whether issues relate to life stressors, relationships, substance abuse, psychiatric illness, or a combination of these difficulties, I can help clients to identify their problems and explore solutions. My goal is to empower my clients through education, to help them learn and utilize skills to assess their problems, identify strategies that have and have not worked in the past, and implement change in both thoughts and actions. Clients carry these skills far beyond the therapeutic relationship.
I have over thirty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Whether issues relate to life stressors, relationships, substance abuse, psychiatric illness, or a combination of these difficulties, I can help clients to identify their problems and explore solutions. My goal is to empower my clients through education, to help them learn and utilize skills to assess their problems, identify strategies that have and have not worked in the past, and implement change in both thoughts and actions. Clients carry these skills far beyond the therapeutic relationship.
(828) 481-8620 View (828) 481-8620
Photo of Roberta Tessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Roberta Tessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you are a young adult overwhelmed by college, a parent trying to maintain intimacy with your partner, or a baby boomer searching for meaning in retirement, I provide a collaborative, non-judgmental therapeutic environment. My expertise, support, and practical feedback will help you tap into your strengths and reach your goals. You may be looking for individual therapy, or to come in with your partner or family. I have had great success with all configurations, as well as with people of all ages and backgrounds. I offer evening and Saturday hours to accommodate busy schedules, and have offices in West Windsor and Princeton.
Whether you are a young adult overwhelmed by college, a parent trying to maintain intimacy with your partner, or a baby boomer searching for meaning in retirement, I provide a collaborative, non-judgmental therapeutic environment. My expertise, support, and practical feedback will help you tap into your strengths and reach your goals. You may be looking for individual therapy, or to come in with your partner or family. I have had great success with all configurations, as well as with people of all ages and backgrounds. I offer evening and Saturday hours to accommodate busy schedules, and have offices in West Windsor and Princeton.
(609) 545-2295 View (609) 545-2295
Photo of Jean Milides-Hennon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jean Milides-Hennon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
An ideal client may experience persistent sadness, low energy, or hopelessness from depression, along with worry, tension, or fear from anxiety. These challenges can impact daily life and strain relationships, causing difficulties with communication, trust, or conflict. They are motivated to understand how their thoughts, emotions, and relationships interact and seek guidance and tools to improve well-being and strengthen connections
An ideal client may experience persistent sadness, low energy, or hopelessness from depression, along with worry, tension, or fear from anxiety. These challenges can impact daily life and strain relationships, causing difficulties with communication, trust, or conflict. They are motivated to understand how their thoughts, emotions, and relationships interact and seek guidance and tools to improve well-being and strengthen connections
(732) 709-1096 View (732) 709-1096
Photo of Jennifer Cella-Roe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Cella-Roe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking to begin your journey to wellness through therapy? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that believes in working together with the client by using my 20+ years of experience to guide you. You can expect me to be an empathic and honest person, to help you make these changes so you can live a more fulfilling life. It’s time you focused on yourself and enriched your life through psychotherapy.
Are you looking to begin your journey to wellness through therapy? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that believes in working together with the client by using my 20+ years of experience to guide you. You can expect me to be an empathic and honest person, to help you make these changes so you can live a more fulfilling life. It’s time you focused on yourself and enriched your life through psychotherapy.
(640) 356-4940 View (640) 356-4940
Photo of Gina Zippo-Mazur, LPC, CRC
Gina Zippo-Mazur
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your trauma affects everything and you have been carrying this load alone. And here you are. Why? Because you’re over it all. You want things to improve within yourself or loved one, but you’re not sure where to start. You’re ready to stop letting overwhelm, trauma, anxiety and depression take over you, your family and relationships and begin doing the work that creates real change. Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself, your partner, or your child, you may be noticing how difficult it’s become to manage everything alone. You’ve had enough and it’s time to start something new with a therapist who “gets” it. I’ve got you!
Your trauma affects everything and you have been carrying this load alone. And here you are. Why? Because you’re over it all. You want things to improve within yourself or loved one, but you’re not sure where to start. You’re ready to stop letting overwhelm, trauma, anxiety and depression take over you, your family and relationships and begin doing the work that creates real change. Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself, your partner, or your child, you may be noticing how difficult it’s become to manage everything alone. You’ve had enough and it’s time to start something new with a therapist who “gets” it. I’ve got you!
(732) 592-2634 View (732) 592-2634

See more therapy options for Hightstown

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hightstown, NJ

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hightstown, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Social Anxiety
100% Health Anxiety
100% Driving Anxiety
90% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Hightstown, NJ see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hightstown?

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.