Therapists in Nazareth, PA

Photo of Stephanie Falzone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Stephanie Falzone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
Whether you are seeking mental health or sport performance counseling, I am motivated to empower clients to achieve their goals and to improve their overall quality of life through variety of evidence-based techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness practices. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and sport performance, addressing both the mind and body. I look forward to getting to know you and working together.
Whether you are seeking mental health or sport performance counseling, I am motivated to empower clients to achieve their goals and to improve their overall quality of life through variety of evidence-based techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness practices. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and sport performance, addressing both the mind and body. I look forward to getting to know you and working together.
(610) 646-5918 View (610) 646-5918
Photo of Sarah M Hasker, Psychologist in Nazareth, PA
Sarah M Hasker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is an essential first step in helping you manage or resolve your current life struggle or situation. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, comfortable environment to enable you to get the most from your therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with my clients, we will develop treatment goals to meet your individual needs. I help my clients to work towards living the life they desire through listening and feedback, providing education, and teaching coping and relationship skills to help you navigate life a little bit more easily.
Finding the right therapist is an essential first step in helping you manage or resolve your current life struggle or situation. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, comfortable environment to enable you to get the most from your therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with my clients, we will develop treatment goals to meet your individual needs. I help my clients to work towards living the life they desire through listening and feedback, providing education, and teaching coping and relationship skills to help you navigate life a little bit more easily.
(610) 400-3831 View (610) 400-3831
Photo of Sherie M Angstadt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nazareth, PA
Sherie M Angstadt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
My focus is helping individuals overcome anxiety and mood disorders, and I enjoy helping people find spiritual solutions for their pain, fears and losses. I also instruct individuals in Mindfulness Meditation to help deal with pain, stress and illness. I find this work extremely satisfying because of the growth that it promotes for the client. I am proficient working with both individuals and couples - I help couples to build better connections with each other and resolve conflict.
My focus is helping individuals overcome anxiety and mood disorders, and I enjoy helping people find spiritual solutions for their pain, fears and losses. I also instruct individuals in Mindfulness Meditation to help deal with pain, stress and illness. I find this work extremely satisfying because of the growth that it promotes for the client. I am proficient working with both individuals and couples - I help couples to build better connections with each other and resolve conflict.
(484) 255-4248 View (484) 255-4248
Photo of Sarah Dinan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Sarah Dinan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
I'm dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards healing, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. As a specialized therapist with a focus on anxiety and depression, I understand the unique challenges that these conditions can present. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective coping strategies.
I'm dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards healing, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. As a specialized therapist with a focus on anxiety and depression, I understand the unique challenges that these conditions can present. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective coping strategies.
(484) 214-2348 View (484) 214-2348
Photo of Jennifer Bergstresser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nazareth, PA
Jennifer Bergstresser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064  (Online Only)
Counseling in a safe space to identify and explore the things that keep you stuck and prevent you from living the life you want to lead. A safe non-judgmental environment will allow you to find or enhance motivation for change and identify choices that may have been overlooked or seen as not being possible in the past. Many people entering therapy are overwhelmed or find themselves at a crossroads in life when they need to adapt to new circumstances or adjust to uncomfortable changes in employment, relationships, or loss.
Counseling in a safe space to identify and explore the things that keep you stuck and prevent you from living the life you want to lead. A safe non-judgmental environment will allow you to find or enhance motivation for change and identify choices that may have been overlooked or seen as not being possible in the past. Many people entering therapy are overwhelmed or find themselves at a crossroads in life when they need to adapt to new circumstances or adjust to uncomfortable changes in employment, relationships, or loss.
(610) 298-9349 View (610) 298-9349
Photo of Lyz DeBoer, Psychologist in Nazareth, PA
Lyz DeBoer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
Does your team need a boost of confidence? Is miscommunication slowing down productivity? Is your team’s energy out of balance? Are you feeling stuck as the leader? I can help! Let’s meet for a Refreshing You! Energy + Confidence Consultation to remove the blocks to your success. I am an intuitive therapist, love+relationship specialist, and mental health consultant. I collaborate with you to align your energy - body, mind, heart, soul, + spirit - with your values, mission, and vision. My passion: empowering confidence, authenticity, and excellence in your life, love, and biz. Let’s get you - and your team - to the next level!
Does your team need a boost of confidence? Is miscommunication slowing down productivity? Is your team’s energy out of balance? Are you feeling stuck as the leader? I can help! Let’s meet for a Refreshing You! Energy + Confidence Consultation to remove the blocks to your success. I am an intuitive therapist, love+relationship specialist, and mental health consultant. I collaborate with you to align your energy - body, mind, heart, soul, + spirit - with your values, mission, and vision. My passion: empowering confidence, authenticity, and excellence in your life, love, and biz. Let’s get you - and your team - to the next level!
(610) 850-9751 View (610) 850-9751
Photo of April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv in Nazareth, PA
April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv
MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064  (Online Only)
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
(267) 362-4011 View (267) 362-4011
Photo of Renee Cantwell, Psychologist in Nazareth, PA
Renee Cantwell
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
As part of the team at Easton Neuropsychology, I currently provide comprehensive evaluation and assessment services, children through older adult, for people experiencing cognitive, memory, attentional, or psychological issues. I help with figuring out appropriate diagnoses and making recommendations for retirement. AlthoughI am not providing psychotherapy services myself at this time, Easton Neuropsychology has a variety of therapists with availability, as well as the ability to provide medication management services for our clients.
As part of the team at Easton Neuropsychology, I currently provide comprehensive evaluation and assessment services, children through older adult, for people experiencing cognitive, memory, attentional, or psychological issues. I help with figuring out appropriate diagnoses and making recommendations for retirement. AlthoughI am not providing psychotherapy services myself at this time, Easton Neuropsychology has a variety of therapists with availability, as well as the ability to provide medication management services for our clients.
(484) 443-4188 View (484) 443-4188
Photo of Sara Kahler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Sara Kahler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, BSL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Behavior Specialist. I have worked with children ages 2-18, on the Autism Spectrum for the past 10 years. I am an expert in working with children who have multiple diagnoses including Oppositional Defiant Disorder and ADHD. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of functioning levels, including children who are completely non verbal to those who possess an extensive vocabulary. I use Applied Behavior Analysis and verbal behavior principles. I also help families to communicate with school officials and also, as an advocate in attendance at Individualized Education Plan meetings.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Behavior Specialist. I have worked with children ages 2-18, on the Autism Spectrum for the past 10 years. I am an expert in working with children who have multiple diagnoses including Oppositional Defiant Disorder and ADHD. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of functioning levels, including children who are completely non verbal to those who possess an extensive vocabulary. I use Applied Behavior Analysis and verbal behavior principles. I also help families to communicate with school officials and also, as an advocate in attendance at Individualized Education Plan meetings.
(610) 850-9219 View (610) 850-9219
Photo of Adrienne Schultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Adrienne Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
The decision to seek help in order to improve your life and make positive changes is often a very difficult one. As a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years of experience, I can help you address the issues that are impacting your happiness and facilitate the growth and change that you may be seeking. Some of these issues may include life transitions, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship problems, parenting struggles, and drug or alcohol use.
The decision to seek help in order to improve your life and make positive changes is often a very difficult one. As a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years of experience, I can help you address the issues that are impacting your happiness and facilitate the growth and change that you may be seeking. Some of these issues may include life transitions, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship problems, parenting struggles, and drug or alcohol use.
(484) 801-0536 View (484) 801-0536
Photo of Stephen Kinsey LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Stephen Kinsey LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
I take a very non-judgmental approach to therapy preferring to work alongside the client and conjointly focusing on the best treatment modalities to fit their needs. I move at the pace that is best for them, taking an eclectic approach to really tailor treatment to the specific individual. My ideal client is anyone pursuing the very best life that they can achieve.
I take a very non-judgmental approach to therapy preferring to work alongside the client and conjointly focusing on the best treatment modalities to fit their needs. I move at the pace that is best for them, taking an eclectic approach to really tailor treatment to the specific individual. My ideal client is anyone pursuing the very best life that they can achieve.
(610) 285-7216 View (610) 285-7216
Photo of Inner Most Healing Therapy Shannon Myers, Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Inner Most Healing Therapy Shannon Myers
Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
My passion as a therapist is to help foster growth and wholeness among individuals, couples and families. It takes incredible courage to reach out for help, so it is important for me to meet each person exactly where they are on their journey. It is essential that I foster a safe environment that allows for vulnerability, which leads to healing.
My passion as a therapist is to help foster growth and wholeness among individuals, couples and families. It takes incredible courage to reach out for help, so it is important for me to meet each person exactly where they are on their journey. It is essential that I foster a safe environment that allows for vulnerability, which leads to healing.
(484) 778-4212 View (484) 778-4212
Photo of Barbara Morrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Barbara Morrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LPCC, CPTT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
Welcome! You've made it to this page, so you must be considering confronting some pretty difficult issues. If you're ready to take the next step and begin therapy, I would be honored to facilitate that process. My goal is to help you develop a plan to free yourself from that sense of feeling stuck, from whatever's preventing you from living life the way you desire. My background is quite varied, I've worked in counseling for the last 11 years, as well as in the field of medicine. I started as a behavioral specialist in home settings working with families, then found my way to specializing in treatment of trauma.
Welcome! You've made it to this page, so you must be considering confronting some pretty difficult issues. If you're ready to take the next step and begin therapy, I would be honored to facilitate that process. My goal is to help you develop a plan to free yourself from that sense of feeling stuck, from whatever's preventing you from living life the way you desire. My background is quite varied, I've worked in counseling for the last 11 years, as well as in the field of medicine. I started as a behavioral specialist in home settings working with families, then found my way to specializing in treatment of trauma.
(610) 490-8322 View (610) 490-8322
Photo of Nancy Marshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nazareth, PA
Nancy Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
I offer many years of experience in treating anxiety and depression, as well as trauma. Unaddressed trauma is often the cause of anxiety and depression. I use an eclectic, holistic approach and have interest in spirituality and religion. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing) and Thought Field Therapy, both state of the art treatments. Also experienced in all types of family and couples work, adoption adjustment work and attachment problems. Physical health is addressed and suggestions are made and referrals given if needed. Good with anxiety in people of all ages. Good with teenagers and children over age five.
I offer many years of experience in treating anxiety and depression, as well as trauma. Unaddressed trauma is often the cause of anxiety and depression. I use an eclectic, holistic approach and have interest in spirituality and religion. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing) and Thought Field Therapy, both state of the art treatments. Also experienced in all types of family and couples work, adoption adjustment work and attachment problems. Physical health is addressed and suggestions are made and referrals given if needed. Good with anxiety in people of all ages. Good with teenagers and children over age five.
(484) 494-2769 View (484) 494-2769
Photo of Christine Wilke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nazareth, PA
Christine Wilke
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
Having a healthy, passionate marriage isn't as complicated as you think when you learn how to build a supportive relationship one loving step at time.
Having a healthy, passionate marriage isn't as complicated as you think when you learn how to build a supportive relationship one loving step at time.
(610) 915-8621 View (610) 915-8621
Alan Shapiro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064  (Online Only)
I can help you to develop or refine coping skills for dealing with numerous issues including but not limited to substance abuse issues, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues and loss. I have been providing non-judgmental, compassionate care in behavioral healthcare services for the past 21 years. I am an excellent listener who is dedicated to the truth, committed to accepting others where they are, as they are.
I can help you to develop or refine coping skills for dealing with numerous issues including but not limited to substance abuse issues, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues and loss. I have been providing non-judgmental, compassionate care in behavioral healthcare services for the past 21 years. I am an excellent listener who is dedicated to the truth, committed to accepting others where they are, as they are.
(610) 915-8783 View (610) 915-8783
Photo of Fred James Chamberlain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Fred James Chamberlain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
Counseling is an opportunity to sit back with an objective other to explore problematic areas of one's life and work towards making it more fulfilling. Whether you are experiencing a diagnosable disorder, difficulties in responding to life stressors, challenges with communicating with others or find yourself feeling stuck, talk therapy has been shown to be a highly effective option in improving your life. I count myself very lucky to have a vocation that I love doing and am regularly amazed at the inner resources that clients have proven capable of drawing upon to improve their relationships and their lives.
Counseling is an opportunity to sit back with an objective other to explore problematic areas of one's life and work towards making it more fulfilling. Whether you are experiencing a diagnosable disorder, difficulties in responding to life stressors, challenges with communicating with others or find yourself feeling stuck, talk therapy has been shown to be a highly effective option in improving your life. I count myself very lucky to have a vocation that I love doing and am regularly amazed at the inner resources that clients have proven capable of drawing upon to improve their relationships and their lives.
(610) 440-3802 View (610) 440-3802
Photo of Denise Pollack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Denise Pollack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064  (Online Only)
OVERCOME THE OBSTACLES that lead to depression, anxiety, and cause inaction. Get your life back on track. Since 1998, I have provided psychotherapy services to hundreds of teens and adults in the Lehigh Valley. My clients report improved mood, less anxiety, more satisfaction in relationships, and progress in reaching goals. The pressures of daily living can affect your ability to cope with stress. I can help you unravel the thoughts and feelings that are causing distress. I can help you gain control over the issues that impact your life.
OVERCOME THE OBSTACLES that lead to depression, anxiety, and cause inaction. Get your life back on track. Since 1998, I have provided psychotherapy services to hundreds of teens and adults in the Lehigh Valley. My clients report improved mood, less anxiety, more satisfaction in relationships, and progress in reaching goals. The pressures of daily living can affect your ability to cope with stress. I can help you unravel the thoughts and feelings that are causing distress. I can help you gain control over the issues that impact your life.
(610) 915-8697 View (610) 915-8697
Photo of Melissa R Kovatch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Melissa R Kovatch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
Not accepting new clients
You’ve been holding everything in & keeping it together, but have hit your limit. You’d love to feel free, but instead feel stressed, frustrated, overwhelmed & lost. It’s hard to relax. There’s a fun & playful woman in there somewhere, but she’s stifled by overthinking, overshadowed by your To Do list, & weighed down by the needs & expectations of others. You provide support & encouragement to others, but not yourself. Despite your own successes, you question if you’re good enough, can handle it all, prepared, or doing things “right." You’d love to feel seen & heard, & need space, support & guidance to help you grow & transform.
You’ve been holding everything in & keeping it together, but have hit your limit. You’d love to feel free, but instead feel stressed, frustrated, overwhelmed & lost. It’s hard to relax. There’s a fun & playful woman in there somewhere, but she’s stifled by overthinking, overshadowed by your To Do list, & weighed down by the needs & expectations of others. You provide support & encouragement to others, but not yourself. Despite your own successes, you question if you’re good enough, can handle it all, prepared, or doing things “right." You’d love to feel seen & heard, & need space, support & guidance to help you grow & transform.
(610) 709-6721 View (610) 709-6721
Photo of Sara Taff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nazareth, PA
Sara Taff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
Utilizing multiple treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, certified as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Informed clinician, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified in Mindfulness Awareness, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, and utilizing Emotional Freedom Technique, (EFT) I assist adults, late teens, couples, and families to find solutions to better regulate their emotions, language, belief system, and perceptions of life challenges. Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Codependency, Relationship Conflict, and Brief Solution Focused work with work and relationship conflict.
Utilizing multiple treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, certified as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Informed clinician, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified in Mindfulness Awareness, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, and utilizing Emotional Freedom Technique, (EFT) I assist adults, late teens, couples, and families to find solutions to better regulate their emotions, language, belief system, and perceptions of life challenges. Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Codependency, Relationship Conflict, and Brief Solution Focused work with work and relationship conflict.
(610) 427-8874 View (610) 427-8874

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Nazareth, PA

20+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Nazareth, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Relationship Issues
93% Depression
86% Self Esteem
82% Coping Skills
68% Parenting
68% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
96% Highmark
63% Aetna

How Therapists in Nazareth, PA 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 Nazareth?

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.