Therapists in Cross Plains, WI

Photo of Sarah Marty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Sarah Marty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life happens. Talking helps... I provide telehealth-only, evidence-based psychotherapy in the State of Wisconsin. for adults 18+ living with depression, anxiety, trauma and a variety of concerns. Everyone deserves kindness and respect.
Life happens. Talking helps... I provide telehealth-only, evidence-based psychotherapy in the State of Wisconsin. for adults 18+ living with depression, anxiety, trauma and a variety of concerns. Everyone deserves kindness and respect.
(608) 602-8324 View (608) 602-8324
Photo of Sharon Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sharon Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Please note that I have an active license in both Wisconsin and Colorado. Over 20 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields serves as the foundation for me to provide compassionate and competent therapy and consultation services. I see individual adults, teens and children, as well as couples, parents and families. I have experience working with younger children; development screening for infants and toddlers, and providing play therapy with children starting at 3 yrs. I also specialize in EMDR and use this this technique for a wide range of client concerns.
Please note that I have an active license in both Wisconsin and Colorado. Over 20 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields serves as the foundation for me to provide compassionate and competent therapy and consultation services. I see individual adults, teens and children, as well as couples, parents and families. I have experience working with younger children; development screening for infants and toddlers, and providing play therapy with children starting at 3 yrs. I also specialize in EMDR and use this this technique for a wide range of client concerns.
(612) 822-1022 View (612) 822-1022
Photo of Kristin Metoxen - LifeStance Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(608) 736-1944 View (608) 736-1944
Photo of Mindy (Melinda) Cardenas, Counselor, LPCC, EXAT, ATR-BC
Mindy (Melinda) Cardenas
Counselor, LPCC, EXAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you a person that is creative, expressive, and interested in more out of therapy than simply talking through things? I am an "outside of the box" therapist combining body based, creative, mindful practices in session, tailoring an individual and unique approach to fit your needs. I work to create an emotionally safe environment, free of judgment, supporting your strengths & helping you develop insight, understanding, & strategies to support you as you move through therapy.
Are you a person that is creative, expressive, and interested in more out of therapy than simply talking through things? I am an "outside of the box" therapist combining body based, creative, mindful practices in session, tailoring an individual and unique approach to fit your needs. I work to create an emotionally safe environment, free of judgment, supporting your strengths & helping you develop insight, understanding, & strategies to support you as you move through therapy.
(505) 587-0989 View (505) 587-0989
Photo of Amanda Knollenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Amanda Knollenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Amanda Knollenberg is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families in both in-home and outpatient settings. She specializes working with clients of ages 15 and older who struggle with trauma, anxiety, and depression. In her clinical work, she utilizes Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Functional Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and some aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Amanda Knollenberg is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families in both in-home and outpatient settings. She specializes working with clients of ages 15 and older who struggle with trauma, anxiety, and depression. In her clinical work, she utilizes Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Functional Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and some aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
(608) 344-5218 View (608) 344-5218
Photo of Kristin Metoxen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kristin Metoxen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Kristin Metoxen is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2004. She has a BS in Psychology and BS in Human Development from University of Wisconsin Green Bay and an MS in Community and Educational Counseling from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Kristin has worked in many different settings and with ages 4+. She has her substance abuse specialty certificate and experience in treatment of addictions.
Kristin Metoxen is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2004. She has a BS in Psychology and BS in Human Development from University of Wisconsin Green Bay and an MS in Community and Educational Counseling from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Kristin has worked in many different settings and with ages 4+. She has her substance abuse specialty certificate and experience in treatment of addictions.
(608) 344-6174 View (608) 344-6174
Photo of Jo Ann Ahles, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Jo Ann Ahles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jo Ann Ahles is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Jo Ann establishes a trusting and supportive relationship with clients, showing empathy, active listening, and genuine interest in their well-being. She supports clients in following their treatment plan, whether it involves therapy, medication, or other interventions. Jo Ann collaborates with them and tailors her approach to meet their specific needs and preferences, always prioritizing their safety and well-being.
Jo Ann Ahles is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Jo Ann establishes a trusting and supportive relationship with clients, showing empathy, active listening, and genuine interest in their well-being. She supports clients in following their treatment plan, whether it involves therapy, medication, or other interventions. Jo Ann collaborates with them and tailors her approach to meet their specific needs and preferences, always prioritizing their safety and well-being.
(608) 465-4290 View (608) 465-4290
Tekia Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tekia Wells, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, serves individuals throughout Wisconsin, providing expert care for adults and teens facing a wide range of mental health and substance use challenges. She offers compassionate, individualized therapy to those struggling with issues like anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and addiction. With over a decade of experience, Tekia tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each client, whether through individual, group, or family therapy.
Tekia Wells, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, serves individuals throughout Wisconsin, providing expert care for adults and teens facing a wide range of mental health and substance use challenges. She offers compassionate, individualized therapy to those struggling with issues like anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and addiction. With over a decade of experience, Tekia tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each client, whether through individual, group, or family therapy.
(608) 465-5377 View (608) 465-5377
Photo of Jennifer L Huggins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Jennifer L Huggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jennifer Huggins is a dedicated mental health provider at LifeStance Health in Wisconsin, offering compassionate, evidencebased therapy to help individuals navigate lifes challenges. Serving patients across the state, Jennifer specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and is deeply committed to helping her clients achieve emotional wellbeing. She works with adults, young adults, and seniors, and particularly enjoys supporting individuals during midlife and later life transitions, helping them manage both emotional and healthrelated concerns.
Jennifer Huggins is a dedicated mental health provider at LifeStance Health in Wisconsin, offering compassionate, evidencebased therapy to help individuals navigate lifes challenges. Serving patients across the state, Jennifer specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and is deeply committed to helping her clients achieve emotional wellbeing. She works with adults, young adults, and seniors, and particularly enjoys supporting individuals during midlife and later life transitions, helping them manage both emotional and healthrelated concerns.
(608) 527-0997 View (608) 527-0997
Photo of Renata Meixner Okonkwo, Psychologist, PSY
Renata Meixner Okonkwo
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Renata Meixner is a Psychologist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Biology from Hope College, a Master of Arts in Medical/Clinical Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a Predoctoral Internship in Clinical Health Psychology Track with General Mental Health Minor from the Veteran Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven, CT, a Doctor of Philosophy in Medical/ Clinical Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in a Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Renata Meixner is a Psychologist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Biology from Hope College, a Master of Arts in Medical/Clinical Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a Predoctoral Internship in Clinical Health Psychology Track with General Mental Health Minor from the Veteran Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven, CT, a Doctor of Philosophy in Medical/ Clinical Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in a Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
(608) 820-8942 View (608) 820-8942

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stacey Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stacey Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, My name is Stacey Adams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is guided by and centered on empowering those I serve. Mental health, substance abuse, and adjusting to challenging life changes are areas I have and continue to seek to provide support through. Life has many challenges. I have found that coming alongside adults facing challenges with substance use, depression, anxiety, and stress. An environment of respect, free from judgment in which your thoughts and feelings can be freely expressed is the base of sessions. Enabling clients to trust the process.
Hello, My name is Stacey Adams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is guided by and centered on empowering those I serve. Mental health, substance abuse, and adjusting to challenging life changes are areas I have and continue to seek to provide support through. Life has many challenges. I have found that coming alongside adults facing challenges with substance use, depression, anxiety, and stress. An environment of respect, free from judgment in which your thoughts and feelings can be freely expressed is the base of sessions. Enabling clients to trust the process.
(414) 946-6589 View (414) 946-6589
Photo of Kati Laidig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kati Laidig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706
I'm a dedicated therapist specializing in guiding young adults through the complexities of life transitions, stressors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and mood disorders. I create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, fostering personal growth and resilience. I am passionate about working with this population, and I find great fulfillment in helping young adults navigate the often overwhelming changes of this stage in life. My ideal client is dedicated to the therapeutic process and open to exploring change and self-improvement.
I'm a dedicated therapist specializing in guiding young adults through the complexities of life transitions, stressors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and mood disorders. I create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, fostering personal growth and resilience. I am passionate about working with this population, and I find great fulfillment in helping young adults navigate the often overwhelming changes of this stage in life. My ideal client is dedicated to the therapeutic process and open to exploring change and self-improvement.
(262) 204-5447 View (262) 204-5447
Photo of Michelle M Pitot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD, CPC
Michelle M Pitot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD, CPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you frustrated with trying therapy, reading the latest self-help book, following a wellness plan, only to continue to struggle with depression, anxiety, or negative thinking patterns? Cutting-edge research shows us feeling anxious or overwhelmed isn’t just about your brain—it’s also about what’s happening in your body. The good news? Even small shifts in how you care for yourself can create big changes in how you feel. I specialize in helping you uncover the connections between your physical and mental health, using a blend of traditional talk therapy and simple, science-backed actions to help you feel better, starting today.
Are you frustrated with trying therapy, reading the latest self-help book, following a wellness plan, only to continue to struggle with depression, anxiety, or negative thinking patterns? Cutting-edge research shows us feeling anxious or overwhelmed isn’t just about your brain—it’s also about what’s happening in your body. The good news? Even small shifts in how you care for yourself can create big changes in how you feel. I specialize in helping you uncover the connections between your physical and mental health, using a blend of traditional talk therapy and simple, science-backed actions to help you feel better, starting today.
(608) 610-1341 View (608) 610-1341
Photo of Simone D LaPierre, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-IT
Simone D LaPierre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-IT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
As a Marriage and Family Therapist I work with individuals, families and couples, struggling with past trauma, infidelity, trust, affected family members, suicidality, preparation of commitment, and next-step family planning. I see a diverse group of patients from all sorts of different backgrounds, cultures, sexualities, abilities, ages, and creeds.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist I work with individuals, families and couples, struggling with past trauma, infidelity, trust, affected family members, suicidality, preparation of commitment, and next-step family planning. I see a diverse group of patients from all sorts of different backgrounds, cultures, sexualities, abilities, ages, and creeds.
(608) 818-8078 View (608) 818-8078
Photo of Austine Roney, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austine Roney
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? Anxiety, depression, and trauma can feel heavy and isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. If you're looking for more than just a space to vent—if you want real solutions, direction, and meaningful change—you’re in the right place.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? Anxiety, depression, and trauma can feel heavy and isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. If you're looking for more than just a space to vent—if you want real solutions, direction, and meaningful change—you’re in the right place.
(608) 593-5235 View (608) 593-5235
Photo of Teresa Bay, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Bay
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
Teresa Bay is a licensed professional counselor in the State of Wisconsin who works with adults, adolescents, couples and families facing a wide range of life challenges. Teresa uses a solution focused, down to earth and compassionate approach to assisting clients with complex life problems and coping with mental health difficulties. Teresa also draws from a wide array of personal life experiences and this strongly enhances an informs her abilities to connect with clients and meet them where they are at in working towards the goals of emotional healing and personal growth.
Teresa Bay is a licensed professional counselor in the State of Wisconsin who works with adults, adolescents, couples and families facing a wide range of life challenges. Teresa uses a solution focused, down to earth and compassionate approach to assisting clients with complex life problems and coping with mental health difficulties. Teresa also draws from a wide array of personal life experiences and this strongly enhances an informs her abilities to connect with clients and meet them where they are at in working towards the goals of emotional healing and personal growth.
(608) 583-9735 View (608) 583-9735
Photo of Elizabeth Kunz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CAPSW, CCLS, EMT-FF
Elizabeth Kunz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CAPSW, CCLS, EMT-FF
Verified Verified
Online Only
Providing virtual sessions throughout the entire state of WI, Elizabeth helps to promote coping with the stress and uncertainty of many life situations, including but not limited to hospitalization, illness/diagnosis, trauma, loss, and change. As a patient, you may want someone to share your reality with; as a parent you may want someone to brainstorm ways to communicate difficult subjects to kids/teens; as a caregiver/professional you may want to process. Elizabeth strives to create a confidential and judgement-free space where you will feel supported and know it's okay to bring your authentic self.
Providing virtual sessions throughout the entire state of WI, Elizabeth helps to promote coping with the stress and uncertainty of many life situations, including but not limited to hospitalization, illness/diagnosis, trauma, loss, and change. As a patient, you may want someone to share your reality with; as a parent you may want someone to brainstorm ways to communicate difficult subjects to kids/teens; as a caregiver/professional you may want to process. Elizabeth strives to create a confidential and judgement-free space where you will feel supported and know it's okay to bring your authentic self.
(608) 684-6451 View (608) 684-6451
Photo of Amy Harvat, Counselor, MA, LPC
Amy Harvat
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
Are you struggling with pain and trauma from your past? Is your anxiety overwhelming you and causing issues in your relationship? I am passionate about working with women who experience anxiety and trauma. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to care to help you understand yourself from a holistic perspective, develop self-compassion, and increase strategies to manage your stress/conflict/symptoms. Together, we can heal the traumatic wounds from your past using EMDR and develop mental flexibility to help you manage your anxiety. My goal is to help you build a meaningful life that you love!
Are you struggling with pain and trauma from your past? Is your anxiety overwhelming you and causing issues in your relationship? I am passionate about working with women who experience anxiety and trauma. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to care to help you understand yourself from a holistic perspective, develop self-compassion, and increase strategies to manage your stress/conflict/symptoms. Together, we can heal the traumatic wounds from your past using EMDR and develop mental flexibility to help you manage your anxiety. My goal is to help you build a meaningful life that you love!
(608) 200-2484 View (608) 200-2484
Photo of Abbey Canaday, Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC-S
Abbey Canaday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a therapist, my goal is to empower individuals to embrace themselves, recognize their strengths, and live authentically. My approach to therapy blends direct communication, compassion, and a bit of humor to challenge and support growth. I work with teens and adults, specializing in disordered eating, self-esteem, boundaries, and interpersonal relationships. My practice is grounded in Health at Every Size, social justice, and trauma-informed care. I believe there is so much freedom and joy on the other side of disordered eating, diet culture, and self-doubt.
As a therapist, my goal is to empower individuals to embrace themselves, recognize their strengths, and live authentically. My approach to therapy blends direct communication, compassion, and a bit of humor to challenge and support growth. I work with teens and adults, specializing in disordered eating, self-esteem, boundaries, and interpersonal relationships. My practice is grounded in Health at Every Size, social justice, and trauma-informed care. I believe there is so much freedom and joy on the other side of disordered eating, diet culture, and self-doubt.
(414) 710-2560 View (414) 710-2560
Photo of Meghan Hutten, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Meghan Hutten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do your best efforts to achieve lasting love, pregnancy or parenthood feel inadequate or overwhelmingly difficult? Or maybe the dream is not at all what you expected? I can help you address the challenges that surround parenthood and relationships so you can build a life of love, connection, and support that reflects your values. Maintaining a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to examine your fears and concerns, I create opportunity for you to clarify your goals for yourself and your relationships. I will support you in working towards greater happiness so you can be the parent, partner, and version of yourself that you want to be.
Do your best efforts to achieve lasting love, pregnancy or parenthood feel inadequate or overwhelmingly difficult? Or maybe the dream is not at all what you expected? I can help you address the challenges that surround parenthood and relationships so you can build a life of love, connection, and support that reflects your values. Maintaining a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to examine your fears and concerns, I create opportunity for you to clarify your goals for yourself and your relationships. I will support you in working towards greater happiness so you can be the parent, partner, and version of yourself that you want to be.
(385) 376-1256 View (385) 376-1256

See more therapy options for Cross Plains

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cross Plains, WI

10+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Cross Plains, WI who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
80% Grief
70% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD
60% Life Transitions
50% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Other
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Cross Plains, WI see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cross Plains?

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.