Therapists in Pleasantville, Houston, TX

Photo of Berenice Torruco - Becoming You Neurofeedback & Psychotherapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becoming You Neurofeedback & Psychotherapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you find yourself overwhelmed by worry and uncertainty, no matter what you do? Unwanted thoughts, feelings of shame, and guilt are weighing you down. You want to feel happier, healthier, and fulfilled, but getting by the day is a challenge itself. You are prepared to take the next step, but not knowing where to start makes you feel hopeless. You may not remember a time when you didn't feel like this. Anxiety, OCD, and Trauma leave us feeling broken and disconnected from our true selves. If this feels true to you, know you don’t have to face this alone. We begin therapy by understanding where you are and the challenges you face.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed by worry and uncertainty, no matter what you do? Unwanted thoughts, feelings of shame, and guilt are weighing you down. You want to feel happier, healthier, and fulfilled, but getting by the day is a challenge itself. You are prepared to take the next step, but not knowing where to start makes you feel hopeless. You may not remember a time when you didn't feel like this. Anxiety, OCD, and Trauma leave us feeling broken and disconnected from our true selves. If this feels true to you, know you don’t have to face this alone. We begin therapy by understanding where you are and the challenges you face.
(866) 442-3968 View (866) 442-3968
Photo of Dr. Angela D. Jones - Healing Hearts Mental Health Services, PLLC, Psychologist, PhD
Healing Hearts Mental Health Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
My work is based on the belief that people want to be happy, effective, and successful in their lives and that they have within themselves the resources to achieve these goals. I believe that psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources to increase self-understanding, improve decision-making, solve problems, and create paths to the lives they desire. I offer a compassionate therapeutic approach that includes recognized and accepted psychotherapies, training for behavioral changes, as well as Existential Psychotherapy (talk therapy addressing life meaning, goals & choices).
My work is based on the belief that people want to be happy, effective, and successful in their lives and that they have within themselves the resources to achieve these goals. I believe that psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources to increase self-understanding, improve decision-making, solve problems, and create paths to the lives they desire. I offer a compassionate therapeutic approach that includes recognized and accepted psychotherapies, training for behavioral changes, as well as Existential Psychotherapy (talk therapy addressing life meaning, goals & choices).
(346) 484-5056 View (346) 484-5056
Photo of Phil Landry - Phil Landry Therapy for Men, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Phil Landry Therapy for Men
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many of the men I work with feel anxious, discouraged, or angry about how their life is going. They may rely on alcohol, screens, work, or other forms of checking out to manage stress and emotions they don’t feel equipped to handle. Often they reach out when a relationship, job, or sense of self is at risk, realizing that trying harder or staying disciplined isn’t fixing what’s underneath.
Many of the men I work with feel anxious, discouraged, or angry about how their life is going. They may rely on alcohol, screens, work, or other forms of checking out to manage stress and emotions they don’t feel equipped to handle. Often they reach out when a relationship, job, or sense of self is at risk, realizing that trying harder or staying disciplined isn’t fixing what’s underneath.
(346) 489-3955 View (346) 489-3955
Photo of Carol Ann Maner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSAT, CMAT, ICGC-I
Carol Ann Maner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSAT, CMAT, ICGC-I
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
So you find yourself in an painful or unexpected place in life. Addiction has taken over and you are unsure how to get out of a destructive cycle. The addiction has affected your relationships with friends, family, and if you are married, your spouse has suffered greatly. Now, possibly your job is in jeopardy, and you are at the crossroads of what to do. You don't have to feel stuck where you are, and you don't have to keep doing this on your own. Addiction is a disease, and effective treatments are available! You are not alone - and there is hope!
So you find yourself in an painful or unexpected place in life. Addiction has taken over and you are unsure how to get out of a destructive cycle. The addiction has affected your relationships with friends, family, and if you are married, your spouse has suffered greatly. Now, possibly your job is in jeopardy, and you are at the crossroads of what to do. You don't have to feel stuck where you are, and you don't have to keep doing this on your own. Addiction is a disease, and effective treatments are available! You are not alone - and there is hope!
(855) 509-8170 View (855) 509-8170
Photo of Deena K Ott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Deena K Ott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or struggling with the pain of loss? I want you to know you don't have to navigate it alone. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges & build the skills you need to find peace, clarity and self acceptance.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or struggling with the pain of loss? I want you to know you don't have to navigate it alone. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges & build the skills you need to find peace, clarity and self acceptance.
(469) 402-7254 View (469) 402-7254
Photo of Marisa Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Marisa Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Life's journey can sometimes be overwhelming, leading us to feel stuck or uncertain about how to improve ourselves or our situations. I offer a nurturing path towards healing and growth, beginning with specific issues and progressively uncovering broader areas for meaningful change. I strive to ensure this journey is supportive, affirming, and thoughtfully challenging.
Life's journey can sometimes be overwhelming, leading us to feel stuck or uncertain about how to improve ourselves or our situations. I offer a nurturing path towards healing and growth, beginning with specific issues and progressively uncovering broader areas for meaningful change. I strive to ensure this journey is supportive, affirming, and thoughtfully challenging.
(737) 937-5996 View (737) 937-5996
Photo of Sophia K Havasy, Psychologist, PhD
Sophia K Havasy
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Complicated launchings of teenagers and young adults are my specialty. I work with families to identify risk factors, such as ADHD, learning difficulties, anxiety and depression, in their young person that can interfere with successful launching either through college or the work force. With improved self-awareness and self-management skills, these young adults are more able to make their way in the world. Parents are part of the treatment team as the young adult can't do it without you. Identifying launching goals and developing the skills to achieve those goals are critical to the process.
Complicated launchings of teenagers and young adults are my specialty. I work with families to identify risk factors, such as ADHD, learning difficulties, anxiety and depression, in their young person that can interfere with successful launching either through college or the work force. With improved self-awareness and self-management skills, these young adults are more able to make their way in the world. Parents are part of the treatment team as the young adult can't do it without you. Identifying launching goals and developing the skills to achieve those goals are critical to the process.
(713) 574-1014 View (713) 574-1014
Photo of Hira Siddiqui - Rise And Shine Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rise And Shine Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Starting therapy can feel scary, overwhelming, or even intimidating. I want you to know I understand those feelings, and my goal is to make the process as comfortable and supportive as possible. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. As a Certified Grief Educator trained by David Kessler and trained in Brainspotting Level 1, I bring both compassion and specialized tools to help you heal and grow.
Starting therapy can feel scary, overwhelming, or even intimidating. I want you to know I understand those feelings, and my goal is to make the process as comfortable and supportive as possible. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. As a Certified Grief Educator trained by David Kessler and trained in Brainspotting Level 1, I bring both compassion and specialized tools to help you heal and grow.
(512) 548-4248 View (512) 548-4248
Photo of Alejandra Ramirez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Alejandra Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been carrying painful experiences alone & wishing for support to process them? You may be getting overwhelmed easily. You may be feeling the effects of past or ongoing experiences in your body, emotions, or relationships. You may be struggling with anxiety, people-pleasing, setting boundaries without feeling guilty, or attending to a nervous system that learned to stay on high alert. You may be navigating the impact of an abusive relationship or of witnessing abuse growing up, including difficulty feeling safe, calm, and connected. If any of this resonates, I would be honored to support you in your healing.
Have you been carrying painful experiences alone & wishing for support to process them? You may be getting overwhelmed easily. You may be feeling the effects of past or ongoing experiences in your body, emotions, or relationships. You may be struggling with anxiety, people-pleasing, setting boundaries without feeling guilty, or attending to a nervous system that learned to stay on high alert. You may be navigating the impact of an abusive relationship or of witnessing abuse growing up, including difficulty feeling safe, calm, and connected. If any of this resonates, I would be honored to support you in your healing.
(817) 612-7109 View (817) 612-7109

Online Therapists

Photo of Jaclyn Burgdorf, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Jaclyn Burgdorf
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Houston, TX 77008
I am a LMSW, under supervision towards LCSW licensure, working in Houston, Texas, with experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for healing and personal growth. I draw from both Cognitive Behavioral frameworks and Psychodynamic approaches, helping clients develop an awareness of their emotions, relationships, and inner narratives while fostering a stronger sense of self.
I am a LMSW, under supervision towards LCSW licensure, working in Houston, Texas, with experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for healing and personal growth. I draw from both Cognitive Behavioral frameworks and Psychodynamic approaches, helping clients develop an awareness of their emotions, relationships, and inner narratives while fostering a stronger sense of self.
(713) 804-2776 View (713) 804-2776
Photo of Jennifer Alexander, Psychologist, PhD
Jennifer Alexander
Psychologist, PhD
Houston, TX 77063
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have training, expertise, and experience in providing evidence-based treatment for Tourette's/tic disorders, hair-pulling, skin-picking, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias). I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have training, expertise, and experience in providing evidence-based treatment for Tourette's/tic disorders, hair-pulling, skin-picking, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias). I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults.
(346) 239-8189 View (346) 239-8189
Photo of Dr. Dora Ann Whiteside, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCDC, LPC-S
Dr. Dora Ann Whiteside
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCDC, LPC-S
Houston, TX 77066
I absolutely love what I do and I view each day as an opportunity to increase in love, peace, joy, and believing that all other increase (i.e. spiritual and material things) will naturally follow. I also absolutely love helping others to increase in these areas. I primarily use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, with a mix of Solution based Therapy, and Person Center Therapy, and many different skills and interventions. I have worked in various settings; with clients from many different cultural/ethnic groups; and with various presenting problems. These presenting problems include major depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts etc
I absolutely love what I do and I view each day as an opportunity to increase in love, peace, joy, and believing that all other increase (i.e. spiritual and material things) will naturally follow. I also absolutely love helping others to increase in these areas. I primarily use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, with a mix of Solution based Therapy, and Person Center Therapy, and many different skills and interventions. I have worked in various settings; with clients from many different cultural/ethnic groups; and with various presenting problems. These presenting problems include major depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts etc
(737) 367-0925 View (737) 367-0925
Photo of Myriadam (Adam) V Medrano, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-CMHC, LPC
Myriadam (Adam) V Medrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-CMHC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008
I am with Summit Garden Counseling specializing in helping to manage stress or anxiety. I work with adults, children, and/or families/couples.
I am with Summit Garden Counseling specializing in helping to manage stress or anxiety. I work with adults, children, and/or families/couples.
(281) 315-6811 View (281) 315-6811
Photo of Elizabeth White - EverWell Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor
EverWell Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Do you ever notice that you can be a little mean to yourself, or catch yourself questioning your life or family decisions? Are you struggling with feeling misunderstood, overwhelmed or anxious? Our clinicians can provide you with the tools to restore your balance and peace and heal the most important relationship you have, the relationship with yourself.
Do you ever notice that you can be a little mean to yourself, or catch yourself questioning your life or family decisions? Are you struggling with feeling misunderstood, overwhelmed or anxious? Our clinicians can provide you with the tools to restore your balance and peace and heal the most important relationship you have, the relationship with yourself.
(346) 206-1055 View (346) 206-1055
Photo of Ngozi Okose, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Ngozi Okose
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Houston, TX 77008
My goal is to provide you with the best personalized mental health assessment and care . I go the extra mile to work with my clients, to help them to make the best life decisions that would not only meet their individual emotional needs, but also enhance their overall adjustments. My clients benefit from my 30+ years of multinational and multicultural professional experiences and trainings. I deliver my services with utmost humility, and with the sole purpose of meeting the needs of my clients. I am easy to talk with, and I provide a relaxed atmosphere for comfortable therapeutic engagement. Engage me on your emotional journey.
My goal is to provide you with the best personalized mental health assessment and care . I go the extra mile to work with my clients, to help them to make the best life decisions that would not only meet their individual emotional needs, but also enhance their overall adjustments. My clients benefit from my 30+ years of multinational and multicultural professional experiences and trainings. I deliver my services with utmost humility, and with the sole purpose of meeting the needs of my clients. I am easy to talk with, and I provide a relaxed atmosphere for comfortable therapeutic engagement. Engage me on your emotional journey.
(281) 532-8016 View (281) 532-8016
Photo of Diana C Pitaru, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Diana C Pitaru
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007
Depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, etc live in the mind's dark corners and create cages that breed and maintain pain, stagnation, isolation, and an inability to think. If your suffering feels like a never-ending cycle and a lifelong struggle, you’ve come to the right place. There are no tricks or quick fixes -despite what some might promise- so, let's explore your history and mind's process, and discover your strengths within. Once you finally understand the patterns and process the internal conflicts that have been keeping you stuck, the cage can be dismantled.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, etc live in the mind's dark corners and create cages that breed and maintain pain, stagnation, isolation, and an inability to think. If your suffering feels like a never-ending cycle and a lifelong struggle, you’ve come to the right place. There are no tricks or quick fixes -despite what some might promise- so, let's explore your history and mind's process, and discover your strengths within. Once you finally understand the patterns and process the internal conflicts that have been keeping you stuck, the cage can be dismantled.
(720) 790-4126 View (720) 790-4126
Photo of Armando Tovar, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Armando Tovar
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Houston, TX 77008
Post-traumatic stress and anxiety can quietly narrow your life, leaving little room for relationships, work, or rest you want. I offer trauma-informed therapy for adults who are seeking real change and post-traumatic growth. Together we work to ease the fight-or-flight response, gently process the fears it protects, and rebuild a steady sense of hope. Resilience grows through self-understanding, practical regulation skills, and a restored sense of self-worth. I bring an empathic, goal-oriented presence and respect for the courage it takes to begin this work.
Post-traumatic stress and anxiety can quietly narrow your life, leaving little room for relationships, work, or rest you want. I offer trauma-informed therapy for adults who are seeking real change and post-traumatic growth. Together we work to ease the fight-or-flight response, gently process the fears it protects, and rebuild a steady sense of hope. Resilience grows through self-understanding, practical regulation skills, and a restored sense of self-worth. I bring an empathic, goal-oriented presence and respect for the courage it takes to begin this work.
(713) 673-8964 View (713) 673-8964
Photo of Beverly Bontrager, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beverly Bontrager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Houston, TX 77098
Everyone at times experiences negative emotions such as sadness, anger or anxiety, but when these emotions become constant companions it is often a sign that something has gone awry. By the time we come to psychotherapy, the task of altering these emotions may feel difficult or impossible to navigate alone. As a psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapist, I am interested in how your early relationships impact your relationships, personality, perceptions and coping mechanisms. Through the therapeutic process, I aim to help my clients gain insight, learn new ways of relating and implement change in order to heal, grow and flourish.
Everyone at times experiences negative emotions such as sadness, anger or anxiety, but when these emotions become constant companions it is often a sign that something has gone awry. By the time we come to psychotherapy, the task of altering these emotions may feel difficult or impossible to navigate alone. As a psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapist, I am interested in how your early relationships impact your relationships, personality, perceptions and coping mechanisms. Through the therapeutic process, I aim to help my clients gain insight, learn new ways of relating and implement change in order to heal, grow and flourish.
(832) 345-1976 View (832) 345-1976
Photo of Kimberly Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kimberly Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77001
Tired of always “being strong”? Ever wondered what it would feel like to just be you? Have you been carrying the weight of “having it all together” and wondering if there’s a different way to live? What would change if you stopped trying to meet everyone else’s expectations and started honoring your own needs? So many individuals’ women, men, teens, and adults, struggle with self-esteem because we’re constantly told to be strong, successful, and “put together.” My goal is to help you reclaim your sense of self, build self-confidence, and create a life where you feel seen, valued, and empowered.
Tired of always “being strong”? Ever wondered what it would feel like to just be you? Have you been carrying the weight of “having it all together” and wondering if there’s a different way to live? What would change if you stopped trying to meet everyone else’s expectations and started honoring your own needs? So many individuals’ women, men, teens, and adults, struggle with self-esteem because we’re constantly told to be strong, successful, and “put together.” My goal is to help you reclaim your sense of self, build self-confidence, and create a life where you feel seen, valued, and empowered.
(225) 321-8024 View (225) 321-8024
Photo of Destination Tx - Destination Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LPC, LMFT, LPC-A
Destination Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LPC, LMFT, LPC-A
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
Our calling is to provide inclusive and effective therapy for busy professionals and couples. Our team of passionate therapists are here to support you in finding balance and overcoming challenges such as Anxiety, Perfectionism, Depression, Grief and Burnout. Whether you're struggling with relationships, your identity, self esteem, life transitions, trauma or burnout, consider booking a free consultation. We take pride in our inclusivity and have experience with clients who speak Spanish, identify as BIPOC, queer, transgender, and those at the intersection of multiple identities.
Our calling is to provide inclusive and effective therapy for busy professionals and couples. Our team of passionate therapists are here to support you in finding balance and overcoming challenges such as Anxiety, Perfectionism, Depression, Grief and Burnout. Whether you're struggling with relationships, your identity, self esteem, life transitions, trauma or burnout, consider booking a free consultation. We take pride in our inclusivity and have experience with clients who speak Spanish, identify as BIPOC, queer, transgender, and those at the intersection of multiple identities.
(346) 266-2912 View (346) 266-2912

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pleasantville, Houston, TX

< 10

Therapists in Pleasantville, Houston, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Trauma and PTSD
78% Relationship Issues
78% Grief
78% Stress
67% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Pleasantville, Houston, TX see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pleasantville?

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.