Therapists in Corte Madera, CA

Photo of Jenna Darlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Jenna Darlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jenna. I am a licensed therapist, clinician and a California native from the Bay Area. I believe therapy and counseling services should be accessible for all. My approach is simple, we work together as a team to accomplish your treatment goals. I want to be a person in your life that you can depend on. Please let me know how I can help! Thanks, -Jenna
Hello! My name is Jenna. I am a licensed therapist, clinician and a California native from the Bay Area. I believe therapy and counseling services should be accessible for all. My approach is simple, we work together as a team to accomplish your treatment goals. I want to be a person in your life that you can depend on. Please let me know how I can help! Thanks, -Jenna
(415) 909-5369 View (415) 909-5369
Photo of Suzanne Austin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Suzanne Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
What stands between you and a greater enjoyment of life? Are you in the midst of a challenging time and yearn for additional support? Are you awake at night worrying about your child? Do you dream about having more harmony in your family life? I love working with individuals, children and families to help them find their own unique solutions so that they can enjoy life to the fullest. My role as your therapist is to help you find lasting change and to create strategies for addressing life's challenges that keep you true to your own path.
What stands between you and a greater enjoyment of life? Are you in the midst of a challenging time and yearn for additional support? Are you awake at night worrying about your child? Do you dream about having more harmony in your family life? I love working with individuals, children and families to help them find their own unique solutions so that they can enjoy life to the fullest. My role as your therapist is to help you find lasting change and to create strategies for addressing life's challenges that keep you true to your own path.
(415) 917-2664 View (415) 917-2664
Photo of Sylvan Streightiff | Emdr | Art Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Sylvan Streightiff | Emdr | Art Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, AT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
As a Chronic Illness, Neurodivergence, Anxiety, Depression, and Complex Trauma Specialist, I help individuals, families, and couples overcome challenges by addressing the Mind, Body, and Soul. My therapy space welcomes the expression of all emotions without judgment. My approach uses curiosity to understand any persistent and overwhelming thoughts in order to gain a sense of relief and acceptance. Together we can work collaboratively to meet your needs, understand perceptions, cultivate your strengths, improve relationships and self-esteem, and achieve personal growth.
As a Chronic Illness, Neurodivergence, Anxiety, Depression, and Complex Trauma Specialist, I help individuals, families, and couples overcome challenges by addressing the Mind, Body, and Soul. My therapy space welcomes the expression of all emotions without judgment. My approach uses curiosity to understand any persistent and overwhelming thoughts in order to gain a sense of relief and acceptance. Together we can work collaboratively to meet your needs, understand perceptions, cultivate your strengths, improve relationships and self-esteem, and achieve personal growth.
(408) 610-1744 View (408) 610-1744
Photo of Avis Rumney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Avis Rumney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CIP
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I specialize in Couples Therapy, Codependency, Emotional Eating, and Eating Disorders. I'm a seasoned therapist and award winning author with over 30 years' experience helping couples and individuals create healthy, happy lives. If you keep thinking the same negative thoughts, or endlessly repeat unwanted behaviors, I can help. You don't need to struggle alone. I will help you transform your unhealthy patterns, negative inner voices and self-sabotaging actions into healthy physical, mental and emotional habits. We can work together to help you build your confidence, improve your relationships and increase your well-being.
I specialize in Couples Therapy, Codependency, Emotional Eating, and Eating Disorders. I'm a seasoned therapist and award winning author with over 30 years' experience helping couples and individuals create healthy, happy lives. If you keep thinking the same negative thoughts, or endlessly repeat unwanted behaviors, I can help. You don't need to struggle alone. I will help you transform your unhealthy patterns, negative inner voices and self-sabotaging actions into healthy physical, mental and emotional habits. We can work together to help you build your confidence, improve your relationships and increase your well-being.
(415) 521-1116 View (415) 521-1116
Photo of Courageous Counseling Center, Counselor in Corte Madera, CA
Courageous Counseling Center
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Do you feel disconnected, dissatisfied, or disheartened in your life or in your relationships? Find relief from isolation and suffering. Restore connection and intimacy in your relationships. Learn to communicate wisely. Strengthen your sense of self. Build resiliency. Bring awareness into everyday living, and turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Our practice is multi-cultural and diverse and reflects values of inclusiveness and respect toward all humans. You are welcome here! Together, we blend compassion and a dash of humor to catalyze and embody the positive transformations you are looking for.
Do you feel disconnected, dissatisfied, or disheartened in your life or in your relationships? Find relief from isolation and suffering. Restore connection and intimacy in your relationships. Learn to communicate wisely. Strengthen your sense of self. Build resiliency. Bring awareness into everyday living, and turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Our practice is multi-cultural and diverse and reflects values of inclusiveness and respect toward all humans. You are welcome here! Together, we blend compassion and a dash of humor to catalyze and embody the positive transformations you are looking for.
(415) 855-3411 View (415) 855-3411
Photo of Megann Rither, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Megann Rither
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Not accepting new clients
I apologize but my practice is full at this time and I am unable to accept new clients. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or need support through a current situation, you do not have to do it alone. Since 2002 I have counseled youth, adults, couples and families with overcoming obstacles while developing the tools necessary to maintain a healthy path. Anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions and parenting are among the many issues with which I am able to help. These stressors can lead to self-destructive behaviors or withdrawing from others in order to cope.
I apologize but my practice is full at this time and I am unable to accept new clients. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or need support through a current situation, you do not have to do it alone. Since 2002 I have counseled youth, adults, couples and families with overcoming obstacles while developing the tools necessary to maintain a healthy path. Anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions and parenting are among the many issues with which I am able to help. These stressors can lead to self-destructive behaviors or withdrawing from others in order to cope.
(415) 413-4458 View (415) 413-4458
Photo of Betsy Klinger, Counselor in Corte Madera, CA
Betsy Klinger
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Hello and welcome! Starting therapy can be an anxiety-provoking experience at first but one that can make a big difference in your life. In my practice I work to create a trusting, comfortable, and safe relationship based on unconditional positive regard. By using empathy, humor, and a client-centered approach, I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach but you can expect to learn new skills, develop a strong and healthy relationship with yourself, and move toward the life you want to be living.
Hello and welcome! Starting therapy can be an anxiety-provoking experience at first but one that can make a big difference in your life. In my practice I work to create a trusting, comfortable, and safe relationship based on unconditional positive regard. By using empathy, humor, and a client-centered approach, I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach but you can expect to learn new skills, develop a strong and healthy relationship with yourself, and move toward the life you want to be living.
(415) 594-4121 View (415) 594-4121
Photo of Daniel Kalb, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Daniel Kalb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I'm a psychologist whose been working with adults for over 25 years. I teach tools and techniques for reducing symptoms and for changing problem behaviors. My specialty is treating all kinds of anxiety problems. If you suffer from OCD, panic, fears, excessive worrying, or shyness, I can help you. Sessions will involve a lot of active give-and-take. I use evidence-based (CBT) methods which have proven to be highly effective. Expect to get "homework" between appointments. Don't be surprised to see improvement within a few weeks.
I'm a psychologist whose been working with adults for over 25 years. I teach tools and techniques for reducing symptoms and for changing problem behaviors. My specialty is treating all kinds of anxiety problems. If you suffer from OCD, panic, fears, excessive worrying, or shyness, I can help you. Sessions will involve a lot of active give-and-take. I use evidence-based (CBT) methods which have proven to be highly effective. Expect to get "homework" between appointments. Don't be surprised to see improvement within a few weeks.
(415) 925-8511 x2 View (415) 925-8511 x2
Photo of Jack W Maslow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Jack W Maslow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I believe that people enter therapy with the desire to make their lives happier and more fulfilling, and a great deal of trust is invested in the client-therapist relationship. As such I strive to establish a safe and trusting environment in which change can take place. In my thirty plus years of practice in Marin County I have helped numerous clients understand and dispel deeply held negative beliefs and feelings that get in the way of them reaching desired goals. I bring considerable expertise to my practice, and receive positive feedback for my work with individual adults, couples and groups.
I believe that people enter therapy with the desire to make their lives happier and more fulfilling, and a great deal of trust is invested in the client-therapist relationship. As such I strive to establish a safe and trusting environment in which change can take place. In my thirty plus years of practice in Marin County I have helped numerous clients understand and dispel deeply held negative beliefs and feelings that get in the way of them reaching desired goals. I bring considerable expertise to my practice, and receive positive feedback for my work with individual adults, couples and groups.
(415) 683-7348 View (415) 683-7348
Photo of Cynthia L Dennis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Cynthia L Dennis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Have you been feeling lonely with more sad days than happy ones, or maybe you need guidance to reach that next stage or goal in your life? Whatever the reason, Heart to Heart Counseling & Coaching can help. It takes courage to ask for support, and together we can collaboratively work to pivot in the direction towards your expected outcomes.
Have you been feeling lonely with more sad days than happy ones, or maybe you need guidance to reach that next stage or goal in your life? Whatever the reason, Heart to Heart Counseling & Coaching can help. It takes courage to ask for support, and together we can collaboratively work to pivot in the direction towards your expected outcomes.
(415) 340-8427 View (415) 340-8427
Photo of Kristin Wolcott Farese, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Kristin Wolcott Farese, LCSW, CGP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I am an experienced psychotherapist offering sessions for individuals, couples and families. I strive to facilitate conversations that invite fresh perspectives and personal agency, attuning to broader social-cultural factors that influence individuals and relationships. My clients often discover they can release coping strategies that no longer support them, and cultivate conditions for personal growth, freedom and more satisfaction in life.
I am an experienced psychotherapist offering sessions for individuals, couples and families. I strive to facilitate conversations that invite fresh perspectives and personal agency, attuning to broader social-cultural factors that influence individuals and relationships. My clients often discover they can release coping strategies that no longer support them, and cultivate conditions for personal growth, freedom and more satisfaction in life.
(415) 881-5445 View (415) 881-5445
Photo of Molly Parsons VandenBerg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Molly Parsons VandenBerg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
I provide counseling to adults, teens, couples and parents. I have expertise helping clients through severe anxiety, depression, family conflict and building stronger interpersonal relationships. Life can be really hard, and many of us don’t have the right support system to help us navigate the many challenges we confront. Partaking in therapy means we are prioritizing our health and wellbeing, which is a worthy and sacred journey.
I provide counseling to adults, teens, couples and parents. I have expertise helping clients through severe anxiety, depression, family conflict and building stronger interpersonal relationships. Life can be really hard, and many of us don’t have the right support system to help us navigate the many challenges we confront. Partaking in therapy means we are prioritizing our health and wellbeing, which is a worthy and sacred journey.
(415) 997-2770 View (415) 997-2770
Photo of Lisa Nave, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Lisa Nave
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
We all need a compassionate witness to help us process and make meaning of our lives. With over 25 years of experience, I support clients in becoming more self-aware while exploring the dynamics, situations and patterns that cause them suffering. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and individuation of the authentic self.
We all need a compassionate witness to help us process and make meaning of our lives. With over 25 years of experience, I support clients in becoming more self-aware while exploring the dynamics, situations and patterns that cause them suffering. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and individuation of the authentic self.
(415) 729-3385 View (415) 729-3385
Photo of Miriam Fagan, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Miriam Fagan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
My approach is to provide empathic, warm, and collaborative care. My goal is to meet you where you are. I want to understand your struggles as best I can, so we can start to navigate the path forward. I will listen openly and without judgment. I will provide a safe space for holding wherever you may be at this time. For some I may mostly be listening, for others I may offer creative problem solving approaches. We will work together to create a balance that is right for you. This is your journey. I am here to help.
My approach is to provide empathic, warm, and collaborative care. My goal is to meet you where you are. I want to understand your struggles as best I can, so we can start to navigate the path forward. I will listen openly and without judgment. I will provide a safe space for holding wherever you may be at this time. For some I may mostly be listening, for others I may offer creative problem solving approaches. We will work together to create a balance that is right for you. This is your journey. I am here to help.
(415) 965-6821 View (415) 965-6821
Photo of Sergio Baroni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Sergio Baroni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
Hello! Thank you for checking out my site. Please call me if you really want to set yourself up to thrive! As a seasoned therapist, life coach and happiness expert, I can show you how to dramatically improve your coping with stress, re-pattern thinking and habits and take empowered and purpose driven action to achieve lasting peace and happiness. I also can help you to improve your existing relationship or find one that is right for you. I use a holistic approach that considers all the factors affecting your well-being and develops a clear pathway for your wellness.
Hello! Thank you for checking out my site. Please call me if you really want to set yourself up to thrive! As a seasoned therapist, life coach and happiness expert, I can show you how to dramatically improve your coping with stress, re-pattern thinking and habits and take empowered and purpose driven action to achieve lasting peace and happiness. I also can help you to improve your existing relationship or find one that is right for you. I use a holistic approach that considers all the factors affecting your well-being and develops a clear pathway for your wellness.
(415) 233-9252 View (415) 233-9252
Photo of Joan K Orrell-Valente, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Joan K Orrell-Valente
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. Naturally, I also work with families. I consider it a privilege to work with young people. You have your whole lives ahead of you and I want to help you thrive. My therapeutic approach is warm, empathic, collaborative, and outcome-focused. You are unique...in personality, abilities and strengths, needs and vulnerabilities, psychological and social circumstances, and in the symptoms you are experiencing. You and I will work together to individualize your treatment. I believe that, fundamentally, you have the resources within you to lead a full and rich life.
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. Naturally, I also work with families. I consider it a privilege to work with young people. You have your whole lives ahead of you and I want to help you thrive. My therapeutic approach is warm, empathic, collaborative, and outcome-focused. You are unique...in personality, abilities and strengths, needs and vulnerabilities, psychological and social circumstances, and in the symptoms you are experiencing. You and I will work together to individualize your treatment. I believe that, fundamentally, you have the resources within you to lead a full and rich life.
(415) 799-3454 View (415) 799-3454
Photo of Molly Coogan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Molly Coogan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I work with individuals, couples and families using an integrative approach to therapy that is tailored to your needs and personality. My style is supportive and collaborative, drawing upon your existing strengths while also building the trust and safety to talk about sensitive topics or explore difficult feelings. Whether you are experiencing career or school stress, struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety, working through grief or managing interpersonal challenges, I will support you in shifting out of the unhelpful patterns that stand in the way to living a life of meaning, purpose and inspiration.
I work with individuals, couples and families using an integrative approach to therapy that is tailored to your needs and personality. My style is supportive and collaborative, drawing upon your existing strengths while also building the trust and safety to talk about sensitive topics or explore difficult feelings. Whether you are experiencing career or school stress, struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety, working through grief or managing interpersonal challenges, I will support you in shifting out of the unhelpful patterns that stand in the way to living a life of meaning, purpose and inspiration.
(415) 903-4705 View (415) 903-4705
Photo of Sara Bingaman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Sara Bingaman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94976  (Online Only)
I work with people who want to feel happy, safe, and be able to connect with others. If you are feeling down, lonely or lost I can help. My goal is to create a safe place where you can express yourself without judgment, explore what is troubling you, and develop strategies to facilitate the change you desire. Together we will figure out what is holding you back and how to overcome it.
I work with people who want to feel happy, safe, and be able to connect with others. If you are feeling down, lonely or lost I can help. My goal is to create a safe place where you can express yourself without judgment, explore what is troubling you, and develop strategies to facilitate the change you desire. Together we will figure out what is holding you back and how to overcome it.
(415) 578-7709 View (415) 578-7709
Photo of Robin Mayer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Robin Mayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
If you are hoping to make a change, I can help you. By shifting perspectives, we can collaboratively help break patterns that impair relationships, health and work. Therapy can be safe and effective; I will help you reach your goals and increase emotional resilience.
If you are hoping to make a change, I can help you. By shifting perspectives, we can collaboratively help break patterns that impair relationships, health and work. Therapy can be safe and effective; I will help you reach your goals and increase emotional resilience.
(415) 891-8638 View (415) 891-8638
Photo of Page Freyermuth, Registered Psychological Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Page Freyermuth
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Dr. Page Freyermuth (she/her) is a postdoctoral fellow offering individual, family, couples, child play therapy and group therapy for folx across the lifespan. She supports clients with a wide variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, school or work struggles, traumatic life events, family dynamics, parenting, and couples issues. Dr. Freyermuth creates a safe space for healing that centers the goals of her patients alongside the importance of the therapeutic relationship, so each individual feels seen and understood.
Dr. Page Freyermuth (she/her) is a postdoctoral fellow offering individual, family, couples, child play therapy and group therapy for folx across the lifespan. She supports clients with a wide variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, school or work struggles, traumatic life events, family dynamics, parenting, and couples issues. Dr. Freyermuth creates a safe space for healing that centers the goals of her patients alongside the importance of the therapeutic relationship, so each individual feels seen and understood.
(415) 761-2973 View (415) 761-2973

See more therapy options for Corte Madera

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Corte Madera, CA

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Corte Madera, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
65% Grief
60% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

40% Other
39% Aetna
30% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Corte Madera, CA see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Corte Madera?

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.