Therapists in Boonville, IN

Photo of Angie Heidorn - Heidorn Counseling, LLC., LCSW, LCAC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidorn Counseling, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boonville, IN 47601
Balancing can be hard to do when your foundation seems unstable. I would like to help you get back on solid ground.
Balancing can be hard to do when your foundation seems unstable. I would like to help you get back on solid ground.
(812) 308-3494 View (812) 308-3494
Photo of Whitney Eaton, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Eaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boonville, IN 47601
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S). I specialize in play therapy, First Play, individual counseling with children and adolescents, and family therapy. I have over 12 years experience as a therapist. I work with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families all struggling with a variety of difficulties such as PTSD, anxiety, attachment, depression, ADHD, trauma issues, emotional regulation, and coping skills. My goal is to help you through your journey of healing and to help bring peace and comfort back into your life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S). I specialize in play therapy, First Play, individual counseling with children and adolescents, and family therapy. I have over 12 years experience as a therapist. I work with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families all struggling with a variety of difficulties such as PTSD, anxiety, attachment, depression, ADHD, trauma issues, emotional regulation, and coping skills. My goal is to help you through your journey of healing and to help bring peace and comfort back into your life.
(812) 889-0615 View (812) 889-0615
Photo of Leslie Payton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Payton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonville, IN 47601
Leslie Payton, licensed clinical social worker, works with families and individuals to help them create happier and healthier lives. Leslie has experience in working with adolescents and adults to help them overcome adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, codependency, substance abuse, OCD, panic disorder, and relationship issues.
Leslie Payton, licensed clinical social worker, works with families and individuals to help them create happier and healthier lives. Leslie has experience in working with adolescents and adults to help them overcome adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, codependency, substance abuse, OCD, panic disorder, and relationship issues.
(812) 613-2577 View (812) 613-2577
Photo of Gabriel Cabrillas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriel Cabrillas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonville, IN 47601
Waitlist for new clients
Are you facing challenges that seem insurmountable? Have you felt like you had to simply 'deal' with your problems or follow a single path to your goals? If you've taken the courageous step to consider seeking help, even if it felt uncomfortable, I'm here to honor your journey. Together, we'll explore new perspectives and strategies to overcome these challenges. I specialize in guiding clients who are ready to break free from limiting beliefs and discover a world of possibilities. Your willingness to seek help is the first step toward transformation.
Are you facing challenges that seem insurmountable? Have you felt like you had to simply 'deal' with your problems or follow a single path to your goals? If you've taken the courageous step to consider seeking help, even if it felt uncomfortable, I'm here to honor your journey. Together, we'll explore new perspectives and strategies to overcome these challenges. I specialize in guiding clients who are ready to break free from limiting beliefs and discover a world of possibilities. Your willingness to seek help is the first step toward transformation.
(812) 608-3888 View (812) 608-3888
Photo of Leona Jan Dillingham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leona Jan Dillingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boonville, IN 47601
We are complex individuals molded and sometimes broken by our unique life experiences. These experiences provide the subjective lens through which we perceive reality, and can negatively influence our thoughts and behaviors. This can sometimes happen outside of our awareness. For instance, we often create hidden internal conflicts which can cause daily distress in our lives. However, we can also be very aware of negative thoughts and behaviors which create havoc in our lives. By allowing me to step into your story and your life experiences, we can work towards the goal of improving your overall well-being and happiness.
We are complex individuals molded and sometimes broken by our unique life experiences. These experiences provide the subjective lens through which we perceive reality, and can negatively influence our thoughts and behaviors. This can sometimes happen outside of our awareness. For instance, we often create hidden internal conflicts which can cause daily distress in our lives. However, we can also be very aware of negative thoughts and behaviors which create havoc in our lives. By allowing me to step into your story and your life experiences, we can work towards the goal of improving your overall well-being and happiness.
(812) 308-4707 View (812) 308-4707
Photo of Lisa Cossey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Cossey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonville, IN 47601
Therapy is a unique experience for each individual. Whether you may be struggling with anxious or sad thoughts, or needing a neutral third party to assist in developing clarity and balance in your life, therapy can provide you with the tools to implement change and personal growth.
Therapy is a unique experience for each individual. Whether you may be struggling with anxious or sad thoughts, or needing a neutral third party to assist in developing clarity and balance in your life, therapy can provide you with the tools to implement change and personal growth.
(812) 308-3706 View (812) 308-3706
Photo of Bailey Helfert, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bailey Helfert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Boonville, IN 47601
Waitlist for new clients
I believe all individuals are worthy of having their needs met in a judgement free environment. I work with the client to achieve their goals for treatment by addressing their individual needs and barriers.
I believe all individuals are worthy of having their needs met in a judgement free environment. I work with the client to achieve their goals for treatment by addressing their individual needs and barriers.
View
Photo of Leah Houghton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Houghton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonville, IN 47601
We are fearfully and wonderfully made to be a whole person - mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner, I have a sincere passion for walking the journey of healing and health with each client – integrating healthy lifestyle choices and strategies whenever helpful. In a world filled with so many “what ifs,” I have a sincere heart for individuals experiencing grief, depression, and anxiety. I truly believe we can meet the discomfort of uncertainty with confidence and practical skills for living boldly.
We are fearfully and wonderfully made to be a whole person - mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner, I have a sincere passion for walking the journey of healing and health with each client – integrating healthy lifestyle choices and strategies whenever helpful. In a world filled with so many “what ifs,” I have a sincere heart for individuals experiencing grief, depression, and anxiety. I truly believe we can meet the discomfort of uncertainty with confidence and practical skills for living boldly.
(812) 612-5063 View (812) 612-5063
Photo of Katherine M Feldmeier, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine M Feldmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boonville, IN 47601  (Online Only)
Does life seem difficult and/or overwhelming? Do you need peace, confidence and joy in your life? I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Indiana with 14+ years of professional work experience. In my practice, I work with adult individuals struggling to overcome anxiety, depression and past trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths and insights that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Call or email to schedule your life changing appointment today!
Does life seem difficult and/or overwhelming? Do you need peace, confidence and joy in your life? I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Indiana with 14+ years of professional work experience. In my practice, I work with adult individuals struggling to overcome anxiety, depression and past trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths and insights that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Call or email to schedule your life changing appointment today!
(318) 766-8772 View (318) 766-8772

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chris J.k. Leins - Anxiety & OCD Clinic of the Ten Thousand Lakes, MA, NCC, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anxiety & OCD Clinic of the Ten Thousand Lakes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
Traditional talk therapy not working? I am an anxiety disorders and OCD treatment specialist, having utilized the exposure therapies for effective treatment in many hundreds of cases. Patients generally achieve subclinical symptom-severity in about four months, or 16 sessions. Effective treatment can be hard; and it requires consistency and work. But if you're ready to take your life back from your symptoms, I specialize in the treatment-protocols amply proven to reduce your symptoms, and in a limited period of time. Night & weekend sessions available.
Traditional talk therapy not working? I am an anxiety disorders and OCD treatment specialist, having utilized the exposure therapies for effective treatment in many hundreds of cases. Patients generally achieve subclinical symptom-severity in about four months, or 16 sessions. Effective treatment can be hard; and it requires consistency and work. But if you're ready to take your life back from your symptoms, I specialize in the treatment-protocols amply proven to reduce your symptoms, and in a limited period of time. Night & weekend sessions available.
(833) 929-1351 View (833) 929-1351
Photo of Kasandra Catherine Niemeier, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasandra Catherine Niemeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburgh, IN 47630
We as individuals can lose ourselves in this big world of choices, mixed-up thoughts, and happenstance. You may no longer think, feel, or behave in preferable ways and desire real change. Whether it be the effects of past trauma, relationships, parenting struggle, or health concerns, we may find we aren't managing life at the top of our game. Sometimes, we are barely making it at all. We can explore your needs and break through the challenges so you can move forward living your best life.
We as individuals can lose ourselves in this big world of choices, mixed-up thoughts, and happenstance. You may no longer think, feel, or behave in preferable ways and desire real change. Whether it be the effects of past trauma, relationships, parenting struggle, or health concerns, we may find we aren't managing life at the top of our game. Sometimes, we are barely making it at all. We can explore your needs and break through the challenges so you can move forward living your best life.
(812) 726-0563 View (812) 726-0563
Photo of Janine Purvis, LCSW, LCAC, ICGC-1, CRAFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Purvis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, ICGC-1, CRAFT
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
You are an adult in early to late mid-life weighed down by anxiety and past trauma. Unwanted memories and disturbing dreams flash before your mind’s eye, like a haunting slideshow. You retreat to the confines of your home, avoiding others and shutting out the world. Self-blame & criticism create constant chatter in your mind, drowning out the soothing sounds of inner peace. Calmness is masked by the lingering scent of anxiety, always present, never fully dissipating. I understand how overwhelming & exhausting this can be. I am passionate about helping my clients work through their anxiety and trauma via evidence-based strategies.
You are an adult in early to late mid-life weighed down by anxiety and past trauma. Unwanted memories and disturbing dreams flash before your mind’s eye, like a haunting slideshow. You retreat to the confines of your home, avoiding others and shutting out the world. Self-blame & criticism create constant chatter in your mind, drowning out the soothing sounds of inner peace. Calmness is masked by the lingering scent of anxiety, always present, never fully dissipating. I understand how overwhelming & exhausting this can be. I am passionate about helping my clients work through their anxiety and trauma via evidence-based strategies.
(812) 393-2072 View (812) 393-2072
Photo of Marla S Stamm, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marla S Stamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburgh, IN 47630
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction or experiencing problems in your relationships? Are you looking for a safe and comfortable place where you can talk freely and openly? I focus on providing you with an empathetic connection that will allow you to feel accepted, valued, understood and respected. You can look forward to each day, once again knowing you’re going to be productive and feel confident, calm, hopeful, encouraged and optimistic. ​ My primary approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Together, we will explore your thoughts/beliefs/hopes and create a custom treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction or experiencing problems in your relationships? Are you looking for a safe and comfortable place where you can talk freely and openly? I focus on providing you with an empathetic connection that will allow you to feel accepted, valued, understood and respected. You can look forward to each day, once again knowing you’re going to be productive and feel confident, calm, hopeful, encouraged and optimistic. ​ My primary approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Together, we will explore your thoughts/beliefs/hopes and create a custom treatment plan to address your specific needs.
(812) 226-8351 View (812) 226-8351
Photo of Steven R. Wham - Wham Counseling, LCSW , LCADC, CSAT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wham Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LCADC, CSAT, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newburgh, IN 47630
Congratulations on the decision to make positive personal changes in your life! I offer over 30 years of clinical experience counseling people with issues related to mental health and various addictions. I offer the ability to connect well with people and use my training and experience to help you solve your issues. My office is located in a large and very relaxed setting of the historic Old Vanderburgh County Courthouse. Your call will be answered by me; offering you a personalized and extremely confidential experience. I am licensed in both Indiana and Kentucky and am able to work with people that live in either state.
Congratulations on the decision to make positive personal changes in your life! I offer over 30 years of clinical experience counseling people with issues related to mental health and various addictions. I offer the ability to connect well with people and use my training and experience to help you solve your issues. My office is located in a large and very relaxed setting of the historic Old Vanderburgh County Courthouse. Your call will be answered by me; offering you a personalized and extremely confidential experience. I am licensed in both Indiana and Kentucky and am able to work with people that live in either state.
(812) 432-2337 View (812) 432-2337
Photo of Monte Ritchey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monte Ritchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
Life’s challenges don’t always respond to our usual strategies, here at Non Standard Solutions, I recognize that every client has unique experiences, motivations, and strengths. My therapeutic approach is informed by strength-based, client-centered, positive psychology, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Meaning, we’ll work together to identify tools that you can use to address your life’s stressors. Ultimately, help provide you with both practical short term solutions as well as long term personal growth.
Life’s challenges don’t always respond to our usual strategies, here at Non Standard Solutions, I recognize that every client has unique experiences, motivations, and strengths. My therapeutic approach is informed by strength-based, client-centered, positive psychology, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Meaning, we’ll work together to identify tools that you can use to address your life’s stressors. Ultimately, help provide you with both practical short term solutions as well as long term personal growth.
(812) 203-5130 View (812) 203-5130
Photo of Emily A Sommers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily A Sommers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
I believe a non-negotiable in a recovery experience is allowing someone to be authentically heard. It is a space that encourages emotional and physical detachment from challenges and an opportunity to intentionally integrate the desirable and undesirable events of life unfolding. Transparency and exploration can take place in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental holding environment. This process allows dignity and respect to navigate choices, solutions and empower discernment with action steps. Individuals can be truest to themselves and discover strengths in the duality of what they might have originally perceived as weaknesses.
I believe a non-negotiable in a recovery experience is allowing someone to be authentically heard. It is a space that encourages emotional and physical detachment from challenges and an opportunity to intentionally integrate the desirable and undesirable events of life unfolding. Transparency and exploration can take place in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental holding environment. This process allows dignity and respect to navigate choices, solutions and empower discernment with action steps. Individuals can be truest to themselves and discover strengths in the duality of what they might have originally perceived as weaknesses.
(812) 737-3931 View (812) 737-3931
Photo of Mayme H Siders, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mayme H Siders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there is a better version of yourself that you would like to uncover and develop? Are you at a point of transition in your life and would like to explore what you really want rather than what is expected or easy? If any of these questions speak to you then I think we might be a good match therapeutically. I specialize in helping people identify what they want and then support them in moving positively toward that goal. Nothing is more energizing and exciting than helping someone move more fully into who they want to be and the life they want to live.
Are you struggling with creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there is a better version of yourself that you would like to uncover and develop? Are you at a point of transition in your life and would like to explore what you really want rather than what is expected or easy? If any of these questions speak to you then I think we might be a good match therapeutically. I specialize in helping people identify what they want and then support them in moving positively toward that goal. Nothing is more energizing and exciting than helping someone move more fully into who they want to be and the life they want to live.
(931) 542-4985 View (931) 542-4985
Photo of Brigette Renee Hill, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brigette Renee Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
When I first meet with clients, I really try to communicate how important it is to me that they feel they are being accepted and helped from a non-judgmental stance on my part. I hope that I am able to place my clients at ease to be open and share very personal experiences that can be of a very sensitive nature. By creating a relationship where clients feel comfortable that I will not be shocked, judgmental, or offended by their experiences, we can instead seek to explore how these experiences impact their own life and relationships.
When I first meet with clients, I really try to communicate how important it is to me that they feel they are being accepted and helped from a non-judgmental stance on my part. I hope that I am able to place my clients at ease to be open and share very personal experiences that can be of a very sensitive nature. By creating a relationship where clients feel comfortable that I will not be shocked, judgmental, or offended by their experiences, we can instead seek to explore how these experiences impact their own life and relationships.
(812) 215-5584 View (812) 215-5584
Photo of Laura Ellsworth, MA, LMHC, CFMHE, Counselor
Laura Ellsworth
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CFMHE
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
I offer the options of Telephone and Zoom if you prefer this option. I have 36+ years experience. Are you feeling overwhelmed and trying to figure out what to do next? I can help you if you struggle with codependency, social anxiety, setting boundaries, or relationship stress. Perhaps you are wanting to make a big life decision or feeling stressed about day to day issues. I have experience working with adults abused as children, sexual trauma, and domestic violence. I take a limited number of clients so call/email to see if I am currently accepting new clients. Email me for a faster response.
I offer the options of Telephone and Zoom if you prefer this option. I have 36+ years experience. Are you feeling overwhelmed and trying to figure out what to do next? I can help you if you struggle with codependency, social anxiety, setting boundaries, or relationship stress. Perhaps you are wanting to make a big life decision or feeling stressed about day to day issues. I have experience working with adults abused as children, sexual trauma, and domestic violence. I take a limited number of clients so call/email to see if I am currently accepting new clients. Email me for a faster response.
(812) 220-3347 View (812) 220-3347
Photo of Matt Powless, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Matt Powless
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Newburgh, IN 47630
I am a licensed psychologist and owner of Valor Psychological Services, LLC (VPS) in Evansville. VPS provides sport and performance psychology services to individuals in a variety of performance domains (e.g., athletes, musicians, business professionals, military, etc.). Services include mental skills training as well as mental health counseling for both individuals and groups in order to help clients perform at their highest level.
I am a licensed psychologist and owner of Valor Psychological Services, LLC (VPS) in Evansville. VPS provides sport and performance psychology services to individuals in a variety of performance domains (e.g., athletes, musicians, business professionals, military, etc.). Services include mental skills training as well as mental health counseling for both individuals and groups in order to help clients perform at their highest level.
(812) 612-5448 View (812) 612-5448

See more therapy options for Boonville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boonville, IN

< 10

Therapists in Boonville, IN who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
89% Self Esteem
89% Stress
78% Relationship Issues
67% Grief
67% Anger Management

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Other
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Boonville, IN see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Boonville?

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.