Therapists in Temple, TX

Caryn R Nigliazzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
My educational background includes an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and an M.A. in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am focused on providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each individual's needs. As a provider of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I offer evidence-based approaches to address behavioral, anxiety, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages.
My educational background includes an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and an M.A. in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am focused on providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each individual's needs. As a provider of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I offer evidence-based approaches to address behavioral, anxiety, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages.
(254) 637-3543 x100 View (254) 637-3543 x100
Photo of Natasha Villegas in Temple, TX
Natasha Villegas
Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Hey friend, I see you. I see your desire to get after your goals that have been living inside your head for a while now. Analysis paralysis plagues you, resulting in feeling stuck where your feet lie. I see the mental load you carry day in and day out. I see all the things you strive hard for; the endless pursuit to do better for yourself or in your relationship. Yet somehow, the daily grind overtakes the strides toward the success you so desperately long for. I get it. I deeply do. I am here to bring the awareness that you have the choice to change your current situation. You can choose to rewrite your story.
Hey friend, I see you. I see your desire to get after your goals that have been living inside your head for a while now. Analysis paralysis plagues you, resulting in feeling stuck where your feet lie. I see the mental load you carry day in and day out. I see all the things you strive hard for; the endless pursuit to do better for yourself or in your relationship. Yet somehow, the daily grind overtakes the strides toward the success you so desperately long for. I get it. I deeply do. I am here to bring the awareness that you have the choice to change your current situation. You can choose to rewrite your story.
(512) 967-6922 View (512) 967-6922
Photo of Aleksandra Bessent, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Temple, TX
Aleksandra Bessent
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, ECFMG-, cert, MD, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76501
Are you trying to cope with constant worry, intrusive thoughts, trauma triggers, sadness or anger? Would you like to improve your relationships with partner/spouse/family? Are you struggling to recover from childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse, adjust to major life changes, such as acute or chronic disease, divorce, death of a loved person, career transition? There are times in life when we need professional help to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. I am here to help you to deal with distress, grief, sense of despair, get your symptoms under control, heal from trauma and experience happiness.
Are you trying to cope with constant worry, intrusive thoughts, trauma triggers, sadness or anger? Would you like to improve your relationships with partner/spouse/family? Are you struggling to recover from childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse, adjust to major life changes, such as acute or chronic disease, divorce, death of a loved person, career transition? There are times in life when we need professional help to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. I am here to help you to deal with distress, grief, sense of despair, get your symptoms under control, heal from trauma and experience happiness.
(254) 613-8558 View (254) 613-8558
Photo of Karlie Butterworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
Karlie Butterworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Change can be hard and confusing. With guidance and support, you can find healing and growth amongst the uncertainty. My hope is that my office is a safe place where my clients feel heard, understood, and comforted while they gain awareness, heal from their past, and create a life they love!
Change can be hard and confusing. With guidance and support, you can find healing and growth amongst the uncertainty. My hope is that my office is a safe place where my clients feel heard, understood, and comforted while they gain awareness, heal from their past, and create a life they love!
(254) 358-3592 View (254) 358-3592
Photo of Amanda Tindell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temple, TX
Amanda Tindell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76501
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I graduated with a MSW from Tarleton State University in 2020.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I graduated with a MSW from Tarleton State University in 2020.
(254) 736-6756 View (254) 736-6756
Photo of Michelle Villarreal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
Michelle Villarreal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of resilience and self-empowerment, but getting there is the hard part. Through collaboration in our sessions, I work with a lot of women to develop coping strategies, set achievable goals, and build the confidence to face life's transitions with courage, and resilience. Whether it's helping you through motherhood, a career change, a breakup, or a major life decision, I am committed to providing unwavering support and guidance, while striving to empower my clients to embrace these changes as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
I believe in the power of resilience and self-empowerment, but getting there is the hard part. Through collaboration in our sessions, I work with a lot of women to develop coping strategies, set achievable goals, and build the confidence to face life's transitions with courage, and resilience. Whether it's helping you through motherhood, a career change, a breakup, or a major life decision, I am committed to providing unwavering support and guidance, while striving to empower my clients to embrace these changes as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
(254) 364-6183 View (254) 364-6183
Photo of Dr. Livengood Psychology, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Temple, TX
Dr. Livengood Psychology, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Dr. Livengood Psychology, PsyD, PLLC, is owned and operated by Dr. Tara Livengood and spouse, Mr. Brian Foster of East Tennessee. Dr. Livengood is a native Texan who graduated in 2017 with a doctorate in clinical psychology. After exploring the country and working in various settings such as aging services, corrections, forensic, psychiatric hospitals and the Veterans Affairs, she recently decided to return to Central Texas and make the career change to open a private practice. With a broad range of experience, Dr. Livengood, PsyD, PLLC hopes to meet the psychological needs of Central Texas communities.
Dr. Livengood Psychology, PsyD, PLLC, is owned and operated by Dr. Tara Livengood and spouse, Mr. Brian Foster of East Tennessee. Dr. Livengood is a native Texan who graduated in 2017 with a doctorate in clinical psychology. After exploring the country and working in various settings such as aging services, corrections, forensic, psychiatric hospitals and the Veterans Affairs, she recently decided to return to Central Texas and make the career change to open a private practice. With a broad range of experience, Dr. Livengood, PsyD, PLLC hopes to meet the psychological needs of Central Texas communities.
(254) 327-1528 View (254) 327-1528
Photo of Jacob Parks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
Jacob Parks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Life can often be unpredictable and more dynamic than we are sometimes able to handle on our own. It is very easy to feel stuck, lost, hopeless, and even overwhelmed if we believe that we lack the resources and know how to approach our adversities. In the face of our challenges it is sometimes difficult to identify helpful solutions. This is how I may be helpful to you. Together we could explore what's possible and investigate solutions that work.
Life can often be unpredictable and more dynamic than we are sometimes able to handle on our own. It is very easy to feel stuck, lost, hopeless, and even overwhelmed if we believe that we lack the resources and know how to approach our adversities. In the face of our challenges it is sometimes difficult to identify helpful solutions. This is how I may be helpful to you. Together we could explore what's possible and investigate solutions that work.
(254) 822-4378 View (254) 822-4378
Photo of Brandie Stanley, LPC-Associate in Temple, TX
Brandie Stanley
LPC-Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502
Supervised by Allison Cornell, LPC-S. Brandie is a Certified Trauma Professional and utilizes techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy with her clients. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults experiencing various issues, and will do so from a spiritual or secular perspective, as the client requests, to improve their life, awareness, and skills. Trained in EMDR therapy, Brandie hopes to help individuals find relief from traumatic symptoms.
Supervised by Allison Cornell, LPC-S. Brandie is a Certified Trauma Professional and utilizes techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy with her clients. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults experiencing various issues, and will do so from a spiritual or secular perspective, as the client requests, to improve their life, awareness, and skills. Trained in EMDR therapy, Brandie hopes to help individuals find relief from traumatic symptoms.
(254) 271-0024 View (254) 271-0024
Photo of Heather Percell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temple, TX
Heather Percell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502  (Online Only)
Heather Percell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology from Missouri Western State College, and her Master’s of Social Work degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City.
Heather Percell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology from Missouri Western State College, and her Master’s of Social Work degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City.
(214) 833-8916 View (214) 833-8916
Photo of Shelley Buck, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Temple, TX
Shelley Buck
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76501  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Shelley and I am an LPC-A practicing in the state of Texas. I work with LGBTQ+, individuals, couples & families, and have extensive experience working with children 10+ and teens. I am also highly skilled in working with neurodivergence (including autism) in youth & adults, and the associated thoughts and behaviors; I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
Hi there, I'm Shelley and I am an LPC-A practicing in the state of Texas. I work with LGBTQ+, individuals, couples & families, and have extensive experience working with children 10+ and teens. I am also highly skilled in working with neurodivergence (including autism) in youth & adults, and the associated thoughts and behaviors; I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
(254) 401-5577 View (254) 401-5577
Photo of Jerimiah Woods, Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
Jerimiah Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Your life is unique and has a special set of circumstances. We often run into roadblocks on our journey that we need help managing. My goal would be to help you to grow into an individual who can navigate their life with confidence, happiness, and success. I am very passionate about helping my clients. Working together is important. You are the expert of your life and I am the expert in counseling. Your thoughts, values and goals are essential to the process. We will tackle your life challenges together in an effort to ease your stress, calm your fears and help you grow as a person. I look forward to working with you.
Your life is unique and has a special set of circumstances. We often run into roadblocks on our journey that we need help managing. My goal would be to help you to grow into an individual who can navigate their life with confidence, happiness, and success. I am very passionate about helping my clients. Working together is important. You are the expert of your life and I am the expert in counseling. Your thoughts, values and goals are essential to the process. We will tackle your life challenges together in an effort to ease your stress, calm your fears and help you grow as a person. I look forward to working with you.
(254) 410-1493 View (254) 410-1493
Photo of Whitney Weaver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
Whitney Weaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer ongoing individual and couples therapy to adults struggling with a variety of issues. Check out my facebook/instagram (/whitneynottherapy) channel for videos and to ask questions! Go to www.telemynd.com/request-appointment to get on my waitlist or connected with another therapist!
I offer ongoing individual and couples therapy to adults struggling with a variety of issues. Check out my facebook/instagram (/whitneynottherapy) channel for videos and to ask questions! Go to www.telemynd.com/request-appointment to get on my waitlist or connected with another therapist!
(254) 232-5846 View (254) 232-5846
Photo of OUTCoaching & Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
OUTCoaching & Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76501
TEXAS - Statewide Psychotherapy via Telehealth; OUTCoaching & Psychotherapy has the sole focus of working with men who have sex and relationships with men. Our experience has shown that men today are asking questions about how to be a part of the culture of masculinity, image, and success, while striking a balance with emotional maturity, wisdom, and even spirituality. You are making tough choices about your sex and relationship needs. You are struggling with the pros and cons that come with apps and hooking up. For some, addictions and compulsions further complicate it all.
TEXAS - Statewide Psychotherapy via Telehealth; OUTCoaching & Psychotherapy has the sole focus of working with men who have sex and relationships with men. Our experience has shown that men today are asking questions about how to be a part of the culture of masculinity, image, and success, while striking a balance with emotional maturity, wisdom, and even spirituality. You are making tough choices about your sex and relationship needs. You are struggling with the pros and cons that come with apps and hooking up. For some, addictions and compulsions further complicate it all.
(833) 999-1857 View (833) 999-1857
Photo of Lyna J Zbranek, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Temple, TX
Lyna J Zbranek
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502
Choosing counseling is the first step in your journey to healing. I work with adolescents, women, and men who struggle with a variety of challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Communication Issues, Grief, Parenting, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, and Situational Stressors. I believe counseling is a safe and judgment-free space that allows for awareness and healing to be cultivated.
Choosing counseling is the first step in your journey to healing. I work with adolescents, women, and men who struggle with a variety of challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Communication Issues, Grief, Parenting, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, and Situational Stressors. I believe counseling is a safe and judgment-free space that allows for awareness and healing to be cultivated.
(254) 978-7260 View (254) 978-7260
Photo of Gina Wisinski, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Temple, TX
Gina Wisinski
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502
As we go through time, we encounter many life transitions: starting a new relationship, moving or altering living arrangements, getting a new job, or any other life changes. Sometimes these transitions can impact other areas of our lives and even cause us to feel stuck at times. Unaddressed feelings can sometimes correspond to relationship issues and emotional regulation. Therapy is a great tool for processing through these things. My counseling approach is geared towards helping individuals, couples, and families grow! If you think I may be a good fit for your therapeutic journey, contact me to schedule a 15-min phone consultation.
As we go through time, we encounter many life transitions: starting a new relationship, moving or altering living arrangements, getting a new job, or any other life changes. Sometimes these transitions can impact other areas of our lives and even cause us to feel stuck at times. Unaddressed feelings can sometimes correspond to relationship issues and emotional regulation. Therapy is a great tool for processing through these things. My counseling approach is geared towards helping individuals, couples, and families grow! If you think I may be a good fit for your therapeutic journey, contact me to schedule a 15-min phone consultation.
(254) 457-4509 View (254) 457-4509
Photo of Shayla Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temple, TX
Shayla Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you struggling with navigating life and its challenges? From parenting, relationships and social stressors, a series of mental, physical, emotional, developmental, and social changes have been happening that can be simultaneously beautiful and challenging. Such changes often unfold within a system that doesn’t necessarily support your feelings and thoughts. As a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, I work toward creating a warm, supportive, and welcoming environment where healing and growth are encouraged.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you struggling with navigating life and its challenges? From parenting, relationships and social stressors, a series of mental, physical, emotional, developmental, and social changes have been happening that can be simultaneously beautiful and challenging. Such changes often unfold within a system that doesn’t necessarily support your feelings and thoughts. As a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, I work toward creating a warm, supportive, and welcoming environment where healing and growth are encouraged.
(737) 637-4428 View (737) 637-4428
Photo of Gary Ingram (Monarch Counseling), Licensed Professional Counselor in Temple, TX
Gary Ingram (Monarch Counseling)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
I have extensive experience and specialize in a wide range of trauma including, combat trauma, sexual trauma, and other complex traumas. I am trained in CPT and EMDR and use DBT and CBT approaches in treatment. I believe the therapeutic relationship is sacred and before healing can begin, establishing safety and trust is paramount. I have experience with multicultural needs and social justice issues. I counsel and treat depression, anxiety, and other mood and personality disorders. I have experience with grief processing, teaching coping skills, and setting healthy boundaries.
I have extensive experience and specialize in a wide range of trauma including, combat trauma, sexual trauma, and other complex traumas. I am trained in CPT and EMDR and use DBT and CBT approaches in treatment. I believe the therapeutic relationship is sacred and before healing can begin, establishing safety and trust is paramount. I have experience with multicultural needs and social justice issues. I counsel and treat depression, anxiety, and other mood and personality disorders. I have experience with grief processing, teaching coping skills, and setting healthy boundaries.
(254) 414-2045 View (254) 414-2045
Photo of Maegan Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temple, TX
Maegan Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Maegan specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, and concerns for behavioral and emotional regulation. Additionally, Maegan has experience working directly with individuals and families who are accessing Special Education Services in their academic setting. She also works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Life Transitions. Maegan strives to help equip her clients with various skills to use as healing tools including self-awareness skills, emotional regulation, and tools to increase personal motivation.
Maegan specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, and concerns for behavioral and emotional regulation. Additionally, Maegan has experience working directly with individuals and families who are accessing Special Education Services in their academic setting. She also works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Life Transitions. Maegan strives to help equip her clients with various skills to use as healing tools including self-awareness skills, emotional regulation, and tools to increase personal motivation.
(254) 556-3388 View (254) 556-3388
Photo of Karol Cox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temple, TX
Karol Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Karol is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been a school counselor in the Central Texas area for the past 25 years. She received her Masters of Education/Counseling from University of Mary Hardin Baylor. Karol has extensive knowledge and experience in the educational system and specializes in working with adolescents and their issues as well as adolescent conflicts within the family. She also enjoys working with adults going through life transitions or dealing with stress-related and/or relationship issues.
Karol is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been a school counselor in the Central Texas area for the past 25 years. She received her Masters of Education/Counseling from University of Mary Hardin Baylor. Karol has extensive knowledge and experience in the educational system and specializes in working with adolescents and their issues as well as adolescent conflicts within the family. She also enjoys working with adults going through life transitions or dealing with stress-related and/or relationship issues.
(254) 452-5732 View (254) 452-5732

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Temple, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Temple, TX who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
68% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% Aetna

How Therapists in Temple, TX see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Temple?

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.