Therapists in Mount Ephraim, NJ

Photo of Lisette Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisette Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or others? Whether you're navigating the impact of trauma, working through grief or loss, struggling with anxiety or depression, or seeking deeper meaning in your life, I offer a safe and supportive space to help you explore and heal. I believe that each person's story is unique, and therapy should honor your experiences, strengths, and goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or others? Whether you're navigating the impact of trauma, working through grief or loss, struggling with anxiety or depression, or seeking deeper meaning in your life, I offer a safe and supportive space to help you explore and heal. I believe that each person's story is unique, and therapy should honor your experiences, strengths, and goals.
(856) 636-4912 View (856) 636-4912
Photo of Shikeena Lynard-Greene, Counselor, MA, LAC
Shikeena Lynard-Greene
Counselor, MA, LAC
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing life's challenges who is ready to build effective coping skills and restore balance in their life. Through a holistic approach that integrates mental health and physical well-being, we'll work together to promote growth, resilience, and healing.
My ideal client is someone facing life's challenges who is ready to build effective coping skills and restore balance in their life. Through a holistic approach that integrates mental health and physical well-being, we'll work together to promote growth, resilience, and healing.
(509) 207-1380 View (509) 207-1380
Photo of Anna Marie Stadtmueller, Psychologist, PsyD
Anna Marie Stadtmueller
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Are you currently struggling feeling connected to yourself, others, and your community? Are you worried about the future? Are you looking to feel more like yourself? Whether you've been in therapy before and you're looking to get back into the practice, or this is your first time exploring therapy, contact me and see if we'll be a good match. I'm looking forward to hearing from you!
Are you currently struggling feeling connected to yourself, others, and your community? Are you worried about the future? Are you looking to feel more like yourself? Whether you've been in therapy before and you're looking to get back into the practice, or this is your first time exploring therapy, contact me and see if we'll be a good match. I'm looking forward to hearing from you!
(856) 481-8712 View (856) 481-8712

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Redel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Rebecca Redel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Starting therapy, whether it is your first time or not, can be scary and overwhelming. It is important to find the right therapist that makes you feel at ease, and most importantly, comfortable. I have over 15 years of experience in the field with a background in individual counseling. I have extensive experience in working with clients struggling with loss and grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and transitions of life. I incorporate several therapeutic approaches in my work that cater to the individual needs of my clients. I believe that feelings of empowerment promote self-growth and self-care.
Starting therapy, whether it is your first time or not, can be scary and overwhelming. It is important to find the right therapist that makes you feel at ease, and most importantly, comfortable. I have over 15 years of experience in the field with a background in individual counseling. I have extensive experience in working with clients struggling with loss and grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and transitions of life. I incorporate several therapeutic approaches in my work that cater to the individual needs of my clients. I believe that feelings of empowerment promote self-growth and self-care.
(856) 567-5970 View (856) 567-5970
Photo of Nefessa Wiggins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nefessa Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
In life, we are inundated with the hefty demands and needs of our families, jobs, organization affiliations and life goals. Then, there are sometimes, the unfortunate life disappointments, unexpected traumatic events, losses and uncertainties that impact us. Our minds can get overloaded and we can feel stuck, not sure of what to do or which way to go, it's time to take a moment to breathe, be still and refocus! Let's work together in your process to uncover and implement intrinsic strategies to remedy problems, big or small, developing your own path to healing, in a safe, socially just and multidimensional manner.
In life, we are inundated with the hefty demands and needs of our families, jobs, organization affiliations and life goals. Then, there are sometimes, the unfortunate life disappointments, unexpected traumatic events, losses and uncertainties that impact us. Our minds can get overloaded and we can feel stuck, not sure of what to do or which way to go, it's time to take a moment to breathe, be still and refocus! Let's work together in your process to uncover and implement intrinsic strategies to remedy problems, big or small, developing your own path to healing, in a safe, socially just and multidimensional manner.
(856) 485-5045 View (856) 485-5045
Photo of Jaime Feldman - Accredited Hypnosis Counseling, PhD, DCH
Accredited Hypnosis Counseling
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Specialties: Stop Smoking, Weight Loss (Gastric Band Hypnotherapy), Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, Educational Enhancements, Sports Enhancements, Career Motivation, Hypnotherapy Life Coaching, Behavior/Anger Management, Relationship Therapy, Grief & Bereavement Therapy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Hypnotherapy for Children, Immune System Enhancements, Self Confidence/Self Esteem, Finding Lost Objects. Alcohol & Drug Addiction, Medical Hypnosis. Dr. Jaime Feldman is one of the Top Hypnotherapists in the country. He has been on the Montel Williams show 4 times. Dr. Feldman teaches some of the most revolutionary techniques in Hypnotherapy, including speaking to the sub-personalities that cause a specific problem.
Specialties: Stop Smoking, Weight Loss (Gastric Band Hypnotherapy), Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, Educational Enhancements, Sports Enhancements, Career Motivation, Hypnotherapy Life Coaching, Behavior/Anger Management, Relationship Therapy, Grief & Bereavement Therapy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Hypnotherapy for Children, Immune System Enhancements, Self Confidence/Self Esteem, Finding Lost Objects. Alcohol & Drug Addiction, Medical Hypnosis. Dr. Jaime Feldman is one of the Top Hypnotherapists in the country. He has been on the Montel Williams show 4 times. Dr. Feldman teaches some of the most revolutionary techniques in Hypnotherapy, including speaking to the sub-personalities that cause a specific problem.
(848) 233-4313 View (848) 233-4313
Photo of Dr. Jared Michael Scherz, Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Dr. Jared Michael Scherz
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Jared Scherz. I'm a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience helping people create happier, healthier, and more peaceful lives. While anxiety and depression are the most common concerns of people seeking therapy, I work with a wide range of life challenges through mediums including individual, couples, group and family therapy. We typically begin our work with a deep understanding for the complex root causes of your distress, allowing us to create a path to healing both past hurts while addressing current challenges. Most clients would say that working with me is fun, rewarding, and deep.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jared Scherz. I'm a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience helping people create happier, healthier, and more peaceful lives. While anxiety and depression are the most common concerns of people seeking therapy, I work with a wide range of life challenges through mediums including individual, couples, group and family therapy. We typically begin our work with a deep understanding for the complex root causes of your distress, allowing us to create a path to healing both past hurts while addressing current challenges. Most clients would say that working with me is fun, rewarding, and deep.
(856) 856-1428 View (856) 856-1428
Photo of Laurie Lowe, Counselor, LAC
Laurie Lowe
Counselor, LAC
2 Endorsed
Glassboro, NJ 08028
Whether you're struggling with distressing memories, postpartum depression, anxiety, managing an autoimmune disorder, or improving the quality of your relationships I am here to support you. I am an EMDR therapist whose expertise extends to the Flash Technique, providing rapid relief symptoms related to traumatic events. My approach is client-centered, empowering you to navigate challenges and reclaim your well-being. Through collaboration and support, I will guide you on your journey toward greater self-awareness, emotional growth and healing.
Whether you're struggling with distressing memories, postpartum depression, anxiety, managing an autoimmune disorder, or improving the quality of your relationships I am here to support you. I am an EMDR therapist whose expertise extends to the Flash Technique, providing rapid relief symptoms related to traumatic events. My approach is client-centered, empowering you to navigate challenges and reclaim your well-being. Through collaboration and support, I will guide you on your journey toward greater self-awareness, emotional growth and healing.
(908) 860-8920 x702 View (908) 860-8920 x702
Photo of Gregory Fortune, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Gregory Fortune
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Introducing Dr. Gregory Fortune, also known as Gadi, Ph.D., LPC, a seasoned psychotherapist boasting over a decade of rich experience. Gadi's unwavering commitment to mental health has established him as a revered mentor for those grappling with life's intricacies. With his licensure in psychotherapy, he offers a distinctive fusion of skill, compassion, and profound understanding in his practice. Gadi's focus lies in offering therapeutic aid to adults confronting a spectrum of stressors and hurdles along their life paths.
Introducing Dr. Gregory Fortune, also known as Gadi, Ph.D., LPC, a seasoned psychotherapist boasting over a decade of rich experience. Gadi's unwavering commitment to mental health has established him as a revered mentor for those grappling with life's intricacies. With his licensure in psychotherapy, he offers a distinctive fusion of skill, compassion, and profound understanding in his practice. Gadi's focus lies in offering therapeutic aid to adults confronting a spectrum of stressors and hurdles along their life paths.
(848) 288-1197 View (848) 288-1197
Photo of Jeanne Farabaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jeanne Farabaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Through a compassionate and attentive demeanor, coupled with my innate listening skills, I foster heartfelt empathy that ensures my clients feel respected, heard, and understood. While specializing in Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, and Family Therapy, I also extend support for various other concerns. Within the trusting therapeutic relationship, my clients address feelings of Disconnectedness, Relationship Breakdowns, Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, Betrayal, Loss, and beyond. As a result, they emerge from therapy as rejuvenated individuals, empowered to attain the fulfilling life they aspire to.
Through a compassionate and attentive demeanor, coupled with my innate listening skills, I foster heartfelt empathy that ensures my clients feel respected, heard, and understood. While specializing in Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, and Family Therapy, I also extend support for various other concerns. Within the trusting therapeutic relationship, my clients address feelings of Disconnectedness, Relationship Breakdowns, Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, Betrayal, Loss, and beyond. As a result, they emerge from therapy as rejuvenated individuals, empowered to attain the fulfilling life they aspire to.
(856) 804-2366 View (856) 804-2366
Photo of Samantha Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Samantha Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Hello, I'm Samantha Powell, a licensed clinical social worker. My professional journey includes diverse experiences spanning developmental disabilities, child and adolescent psychology, as well as adult and geriatric clinical settings. I've worked in various environments, from inpatient psychiatric treatment homes to women's shelters, school-based therapy, and individual counseling. My expertise encompasses addressing anxious behaviors, grief, depression, self-harm, relationship issues, trauma, and a range of other challenges that may hinder individuals and families from realizing their fullest potential.
Hello, I'm Samantha Powell, a licensed clinical social worker. My professional journey includes diverse experiences spanning developmental disabilities, child and adolescent psychology, as well as adult and geriatric clinical settings. I've worked in various environments, from inpatient psychiatric treatment homes to women's shelters, school-based therapy, and individual counseling. My expertise encompasses addressing anxious behaviors, grief, depression, self-harm, relationship issues, trauma, and a range of other challenges that may hinder individuals and families from realizing their fullest potential.
(856) 658-7878 View (856) 658-7878
Photo of Jessica L. Passero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica L. Passero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience. I have a upbeat, creative, warm and non-judgmental personality which clients report make it easy and natural to open up to me. I believe that therapy is an avenue to self improvement, healing and transformation. I see myself as a guide who supports clients in their journey of personal and emotional growth. I help clients become more self-aware, improve self regulation and coping skills, heal from previous stressful/traumatic experiences, enhance their communication skills, and understand their emotions at a deeper level.
I'm a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience. I have a upbeat, creative, warm and non-judgmental personality which clients report make it easy and natural to open up to me. I believe that therapy is an avenue to self improvement, healing and transformation. I see myself as a guide who supports clients in their journey of personal and emotional growth. I help clients become more self-aware, improve self regulation and coping skills, heal from previous stressful/traumatic experiences, enhance their communication skills, and understand their emotions at a deeper level.
(862) 800-2281 View (862) 800-2281
Photo of Ryan Farr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ryan Farr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Ryan, a dedicated therapist passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their own potential and make positive life changes. With four years of experience in outpatient settings, I have worked with diverse populations and needs. I uphold strong ethical standards, maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality, and promote the dignity and worth of every person. I earned my master's degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work in 2017 and am actively involved in the National Association of Social Workers.
Hi! I'm Ryan, a dedicated therapist passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their own potential and make positive life changes. With four years of experience in outpatient settings, I have worked with diverse populations and needs. I uphold strong ethical standards, maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality, and promote the dignity and worth of every person. I earned my master's degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work in 2017 and am actively involved in the National Association of Social Workers.
(848) 343-2410 View (848) 343-2410
Photo of Aisha Aziz, Counselor, LAC
Aisha Aziz
Counselor, LAC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am skilled at working with clients from diverse backgrounds, who struggle with mood disorders, substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, and identity issues. In most cases, it is hard to find a counselor clients can connect with. I am dedicated to understanding the unique struggles of clients–therapy is never a one-size-fits-all approach. I am trained to help clients figure out tangible solutions to issues and develop skills to meet their goals.
I am skilled at working with clients from diverse backgrounds, who struggle with mood disorders, substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, and identity issues. In most cases, it is hard to find a counselor clients can connect with. I am dedicated to understanding the unique struggles of clients–therapy is never a one-size-fits-all approach. I am trained to help clients figure out tangible solutions to issues and develop skills to meet their goals.
(609) 849-5750 View (609) 849-5750
Photo of Angela Sandone-Barr, PhD, NCPsyA
Angela Sandone-Barr
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Riverton, NJ 08077
I am committed to working with individuals who want to more fully understand themselves and the origins of their personal unhappiness, distress and suffering, their inability to connect more deeply with others and have successful relationships, their struggles in work, and even their inabilities in having fun! The development of a collaborative relationship between you and your therapist is central in any successful therapy, but especially when doing in-depth therapy, where we will be working towards helping you achieve a deeper awareness of the formative experiences of your life, not only intellectually, but also emotionally.
I am committed to working with individuals who want to more fully understand themselves and the origins of their personal unhappiness, distress and suffering, their inability to connect more deeply with others and have successful relationships, their struggles in work, and even their inabilities in having fun! The development of a collaborative relationship between you and your therapist is central in any successful therapy, but especially when doing in-depth therapy, where we will be working towards helping you achieve a deeper awareness of the formative experiences of your life, not only intellectually, but also emotionally.
(609) 928-7992 View (609) 928-7992
Photo of Ashley Grayson, Counselor, MA, LAC, LCADC
Ashley Grayson
Counselor, MA, LAC, LCADC
Glassboro, NJ 08028
If you're ready to embrace change, I'd love to support you along your journey. My ideal client would be willing to work together consistently to address any needs, struggles, or issues, to build self-understanding, and to strive toward personal goals and happiness.
If you're ready to embrace change, I'd love to support you along your journey. My ideal client would be willing to work together consistently to address any needs, struggles, or issues, to build self-understanding, and to strive toward personal goals and happiness.
(856) 475-6426 View (856) 475-6426
Photo of Neha Pappireddi, Counselor, MA, LAC
Neha Pappireddi
Counselor, MA, LAC
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Hi there! I am so excited you came across my profile. Sorting through all of the therapists here may feel like a lot! I get it. Just remember, investing in yourself is a process and you deserve quality treatment. Take your time. You can expect in our sessions a gentle and understanding approach. I create a space where you'll feel truly heard and encouraged. I believe in working together, tailoring my support to honor your unique experiences, values, and who you are. You can expect a compassionate environment where you're invited to explore your feelings, discover deeper meaning, and embrace your true self.
Hi there! I am so excited you came across my profile. Sorting through all of the therapists here may feel like a lot! I get it. Just remember, investing in yourself is a process and you deserve quality treatment. Take your time. You can expect in our sessions a gentle and understanding approach. I create a space where you'll feel truly heard and encouraged. I believe in working together, tailoring my support to honor your unique experiences, values, and who you are. You can expect a compassionate environment where you're invited to explore your feelings, discover deeper meaning, and embrace your true self.
(856) 517-8526 View (856) 517-8526
Photo of Rebecca Nir - Rebecca Nir | Adolescent Mental Health Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rebecca Nir | Adolescent Mental Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Glassboro, NJ 08028
Adolescence is a time of rapid growth, identity exploration, and emotional ups and downs. I specialize in helping teens navigate the unique challenges they face—whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, or the pressures of school and social life. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to meet each adolescent where they are. I believe that with the right support, every teen has the potential to build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
Adolescence is a time of rapid growth, identity exploration, and emotional ups and downs. I specialize in helping teens navigate the unique challenges they face—whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, or the pressures of school and social life. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to meet each adolescent where they are. I believe that with the right support, every teen has the potential to build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
(856) 367-6723 View (856) 367-6723
Photo of Joanne Zimmie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Joanne Zimmie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Together, we can work on identifying the stresses and issues in your life. My approach is client-centered and psychodynamic while being gentle, caring and encouraging. I provide a safe, warm office atmosphere for you to explore what is making it difficult for you to be happy and to be yourself. I enjoy talking with clients about their present dilemmas as well as revisiting old hurts that need to be healed. I have graduate degrees in developmental psychology and social work, for a combined 20 years of practice with a wonderful variety of individuals, groups and families.
Together, we can work on identifying the stresses and issues in your life. My approach is client-centered and psychodynamic while being gentle, caring and encouraging. I provide a safe, warm office atmosphere for you to explore what is making it difficult for you to be happy and to be yourself. I enjoy talking with clients about their present dilemmas as well as revisiting old hurts that need to be healed. I have graduate degrees in developmental psychology and social work, for a combined 20 years of practice with a wonderful variety of individuals, groups and families.
(856) 494-6181 View (856) 494-6181
Photo of Isha George - Isha George, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Isha George, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treating adults experiencing adjustment and transitional issues related to anxiety, unhappiness, relational issues, life events, and trauma. My goal is to empower my clients to increase self- awareness, explore emotion, identity, insight and identify and navigate opportunities, resources and barriers along their path.
I specialize in treating adults experiencing adjustment and transitional issues related to anxiety, unhappiness, relational issues, life events, and trauma. My goal is to empower my clients to increase self- awareness, explore emotion, identity, insight and identify and navigate opportunities, resources and barriers along their path.
(917) 719-0138 View (917) 719-0138

See more therapy options for Mount Ephraim

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mount Ephraim, NJ

< 10

Therapists in Mount Ephraim, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
100% Stress
67% Relationship Issues
67% Life Coaching

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Mount Ephraim, NJ see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mount Ephraim?

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.