Therapists in Burnsville, MN

Photo of Heather Marriatori, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Heather Marriatori
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I believe each individual has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I am SW-friendly and MAP-informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive. Therapy is not "one-size-fits all."
I believe each individual has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I am SW-friendly and MAP-informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive. Therapy is not "one-size-fits all."
(952) 592-6635 View (952) 592-6635
Photo of John Gawboy, LPCC, Counselor
John Gawboy
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
Absorb what is useful, Discard what is not, Add what is uniquely your own." - Bruce Lee. I enjoy focusing on personal growth and building awareness of our own morals and values. Everyone will experience bad times (some longer and more severely than others) and I absolutely love teaching the best ways on how to cope with them. I work with a variety of issues including feeling passive, suicidal thoughts, self harm, and relationship difficulties for men and women. The ideal client for me is a client who is committed to looking at their own behavior and focus on change.
Absorb what is useful, Discard what is not, Add what is uniquely your own." - Bruce Lee. I enjoy focusing on personal growth and building awareness of our own morals and values. Everyone will experience bad times (some longer and more severely than others) and I absolutely love teaching the best ways on how to cope with them. I work with a variety of issues including feeling passive, suicidal thoughts, self harm, and relationship difficulties for men and women. The ideal client for me is a client who is committed to looking at their own behavior and focus on change.
(952) 260-2393 View (952) 260-2393
Photo of Rachael Britton, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Rachael Britton
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I'm ONLY offering EMDR Intensives currently. My clinical interests include working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorders, relational issues/concerns, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal ideation, self-esteem issues, trauma related issues & PTSD, complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. I would like to help you be able to identify the goals you would like to achieve to live a more desirable life. Once we have this goal established, we will work together to identify new coping skills to address situations that feel distressing to you.
I'm ONLY offering EMDR Intensives currently. My clinical interests include working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorders, relational issues/concerns, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal ideation, self-esteem issues, trauma related issues & PTSD, complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. I would like to help you be able to identify the goals you would like to achieve to live a more desirable life. Once we have this goal established, we will work together to identify new coping skills to address situations that feel distressing to you.
(651) 505-4380 View (651) 505-4380
Photo of Heather Heide, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Heide
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships are the guiding forces in our lives for connection and where we learn to create meaning. I have built my practice exploring the unique needs of people struggling with the complexities of trauma and addictions. I have learned to understand the nuances and struggles that couples and families face in the discovery process of addictions as well as the daily impacts of living with secrets. Moving beyond secrets can be a difficult, but I can help guide you through it in an efficient and thoughtful manner. I believe change is collaborative process where trust, laughter, and safety are essential to the therapeutic journey.
Relationships are the guiding forces in our lives for connection and where we learn to create meaning. I have built my practice exploring the unique needs of people struggling with the complexities of trauma and addictions. I have learned to understand the nuances and struggles that couples and families face in the discovery process of addictions as well as the daily impacts of living with secrets. Moving beyond secrets can be a difficult, but I can help guide you through it in an efficient and thoughtful manner. I believe change is collaborative process where trust, laughter, and safety are essential to the therapeutic journey.
(952) 260-9331 View (952) 260-9331
Photo of Justin Lajoie, LPCC
Justin Lajoie
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I work with adults and couples that are experiencing a variety of challenges. Regardless of their challenges clients that are desiring to change and are motivated to begin to shift the way they think, and act can find therapy helpful. Clients ideally want therapy to provide them with different feedback and perceptive. One should be seeking support because they do not want to continue to experience the concerns that have brought them to therapy in the first place.
I work with adults and couples that are experiencing a variety of challenges. Regardless of their challenges clients that are desiring to change and are motivated to begin to shift the way they think, and act can find therapy helpful. Clients ideally want therapy to provide them with different feedback and perceptive. One should be seeking support because they do not want to continue to experience the concerns that have brought them to therapy in the first place.
(952) 592-6160 View (952) 592-6160
Photo of Summer Edwards, Pre-Licensed Professional
Summer Edwards
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I aim to create a space where you feel accepted, safe, and free from judgment, no matter your background or struggles. I specialize in clients seeking help with life's challenges, including post-partum depression, PTSD, chronic illness, parenting, and anxiety, because I can draw from my own personal experiences. I want to help you reach your personal goals, whether it's healing, finding balance in life, or simply having someone in your corner to listen.
I aim to create a space where you feel accepted, safe, and free from judgment, no matter your background or struggles. I specialize in clients seeking help with life's challenges, including post-partum depression, PTSD, chronic illness, parenting, and anxiety, because I can draw from my own personal experiences. I want to help you reach your personal goals, whether it's healing, finding balance in life, or simply having someone in your corner to listen.
(952) 234-6998 View (952) 234-6998
Photo of Maria Wasem, MA, PMH-C, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maria Wasem
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship can become the catalyst to change, one interaction, one session at a time. Therapy sessions with me are targeted to provide security in the vulnerability required to do the deep and restorative work necessary to make positive change. My job as a therapist is to create a relationship that honors that space and guides my clients through growth personally, in their relationships, and their lives as a whole. My background and experience in child psychology lends itself to insight into parenting as well as reflection upon family of origin as it manifests in the present.
I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship can become the catalyst to change, one interaction, one session at a time. Therapy sessions with me are targeted to provide security in the vulnerability required to do the deep and restorative work necessary to make positive change. My job as a therapist is to create a relationship that honors that space and guides my clients through growth personally, in their relationships, and their lives as a whole. My background and experience in child psychology lends itself to insight into parenting as well as reflection upon family of origin as it manifests in the present.
(952) 522-5034 View (952) 522-5034
Photo of Keith Richard Narr - Keith Narr, LADC, MPS , LADC, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Keith Narr, LADC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MPS , LADC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I'm a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor in Private Practice who specifically addresses healing from substance use disorder through assessment, treatment planning, goal setting and implementing actions toward biological, psychological and sociological health. Evidence shows that SUD is as manageable as any other chronic disease when there's a plan in place - and the actions in support of that plan are working. Let me help you on your journey to recovery and a better life.
I'm a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor in Private Practice who specifically addresses healing from substance use disorder through assessment, treatment planning, goal setting and implementing actions toward biological, psychological and sociological health. Evidence shows that SUD is as manageable as any other chronic disease when there's a plan in place - and the actions in support of that plan are working. Let me help you on your journey to recovery and a better life.
(952) 592-3116 View (952) 592-3116
Photo of Lindsey Hanson, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Hanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone deserves to enjoy life and build a life worth living. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, triggers, emotional instability, worry, adjustment to a new season of life, relationship issues, divorce, parenting, trauma, grief or just needing to process through some things? These are just a few of the many things I see in my office on a daily basis. I love walking alongside people as they navigate life's challenges. It is deeply rewarding to me to see people find freedom and joy in life.
Everyone deserves to enjoy life and build a life worth living. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, triggers, emotional instability, worry, adjustment to a new season of life, relationship issues, divorce, parenting, trauma, grief or just needing to process through some things? These are just a few of the many things I see in my office on a daily basis. I love walking alongside people as they navigate life's challenges. It is deeply rewarding to me to see people find freedom and joy in life.
(952) 243-3263 View (952) 243-3263
Photo of Lora Madjar, MA, MFA, EMDR, AF-EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lora Madjar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFA, EMDR, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
As a mother and first-generation immigrant, my lived experience has informed my clinical practice. I enjoy helping others navigate stressful life changes. I provide clients with Adrelian psychotherapy and trauma-informed care, including AF-EMDR. While all clients are welcome, I have focused on helping mothers navigate the challenges of parenting, pregnancy, post-partum concerns, difficulties with fertility, and divorce; as well as First Generation immigrants navigate the acculturation process. Recently, I have branched out, providing services for neurodiverse and twice-gifted clients.
As a mother and first-generation immigrant, my lived experience has informed my clinical practice. I enjoy helping others navigate stressful life changes. I provide clients with Adrelian psychotherapy and trauma-informed care, including AF-EMDR. While all clients are welcome, I have focused on helping mothers navigate the challenges of parenting, pregnancy, post-partum concerns, difficulties with fertility, and divorce; as well as First Generation immigrants navigate the acculturation process. Recently, I have branched out, providing services for neurodiverse and twice-gifted clients.
(833) 343-0552 View (833) 343-0552
Photo of Venus Burney, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Venus Burney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
I provide a safe and confidential space to work through past and current experiences, traumas, and identify goals. I teach and model healthy coping skills to manage life stressors. My friends would describe me as attentive, a good listener, inciteful, direct, encouraging, and caring. I have 7+ years working in mental health, with the last 3 in a clinical office setting. I offer anyone who is looking for healing, the opportunity to take the first steps towards in by sharing your truth, and your story with the goal of finding meaning, and stepping into your purpose.
I provide a safe and confidential space to work through past and current experiences, traumas, and identify goals. I teach and model healthy coping skills to manage life stressors. My friends would describe me as attentive, a good listener, inciteful, direct, encouraging, and caring. I have 7+ years working in mental health, with the last 3 in a clinical office setting. I offer anyone who is looking for healing, the opportunity to take the first steps towards in by sharing your truth, and your story with the goal of finding meaning, and stepping into your purpose.
(651) 299-6327 View (651) 299-6327
Photo of Cristina Ramin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Ramin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist with over seven years of experience providing guidance and support to children, adolescents, and young adults. I also help navigate parental and family dynamic challenges through both individual and family sessions.
I am a marriage and family therapist with over seven years of experience providing guidance and support to children, adolescents, and young adults. I also help navigate parental and family dynamic challenges through both individual and family sessions.
(952) 405-9601 View (952) 405-9601
Photo of Julia Raisanen, MS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Julia Raisanen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I am a licensed associate of marriage and family therapy who works with individuals, couples, and families. Being a marriage and family therapist, I conceptualize individual struggles within their family system and love working to improve relationships. I have experience working with addiction, family conflict, and various mental health diagnoses. I am passionate about trauma work, the mind/body connection, and helping others regulate their nervous system to begin to feel safe again in their bodies.
I am a licensed associate of marriage and family therapy who works with individuals, couples, and families. Being a marriage and family therapist, I conceptualize individual struggles within their family system and love working to improve relationships. I have experience working with addiction, family conflict, and various mental health diagnoses. I am passionate about trauma work, the mind/body connection, and helping others regulate their nervous system to begin to feel safe again in their bodies.
(952) 522-1877 View (952) 522-1877
Photo of Brittany Luddington, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Luddington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I absolutely adore working with people who are ready to face the things in life keeping them stuck and walking alongside them in the journey of getting to where they want to be. Whether it's interpersonal challenges with friends, family, or partners, professional transitions, identity shifts, or anything in between, I'm here for it! My ideal client is someone who is excited (even if a little nervous..) about the journey of therapy, regardless of why they are starting or re-starting, and are open to direct and honest conversation, practicing skills between sessions, and doing the incredible work of shifting toward intentional living.
I absolutely adore working with people who are ready to face the things in life keeping them stuck and walking alongside them in the journey of getting to where they want to be. Whether it's interpersonal challenges with friends, family, or partners, professional transitions, identity shifts, or anything in between, I'm here for it! My ideal client is someone who is excited (even if a little nervous..) about the journey of therapy, regardless of why they are starting or re-starting, and are open to direct and honest conversation, practicing skills between sessions, and doing the incredible work of shifting toward intentional living.
(952) 592-7848 View (952) 592-7848
Photo of Robert L Lopno II - Robert Lopno and Associates, MS Ed, LP, Psychologist
Robert Lopno and Associates
Psychologist, MS Ed, LP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
You will have your concerns and needs readily understood and acknowledged throughout our important time together professionally. You may feel at a loss in your search for help and will find a kind, passionate, and respectful therapist here. Often "blind spots" stem from a long pattern of fear/avoidance of your authentic feelings, thoughts, and needs to grow fully into the person of whom you are intended. Together we will co-create a lifestyle and clear perspective more free from burdens.
You will have your concerns and needs readily understood and acknowledged throughout our important time together professionally. You may feel at a loss in your search for help and will find a kind, passionate, and respectful therapist here. Often "blind spots" stem from a long pattern of fear/avoidance of your authentic feelings, thoughts, and needs to grow fully into the person of whom you are intended. Together we will co-create a lifestyle and clear perspective more free from burdens.
(612) 688-5026 View (612) 688-5026
Photo of Heidi McNulty, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Heidi McNulty
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
The mission for healing at Inner Light Counseling is to help individuals feel reconnected to their core selves and their inner wisdom. Therapy at Inner Light Counseling can help if: it seems like your emotions or emotional responses are ruling your life and relationships rather than you leading the direction of your life; symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety are making it challenging to live the life that you want; it feels like your inner voice is your worst critic, or, it feels like that voice is drowned out by critical messages you received from others on life’s journey. We can work together to help your inner wisdom lead.
The mission for healing at Inner Light Counseling is to help individuals feel reconnected to their core selves and their inner wisdom. Therapy at Inner Light Counseling can help if: it seems like your emotions or emotional responses are ruling your life and relationships rather than you leading the direction of your life; symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety are making it challenging to live the life that you want; it feels like your inner voice is your worst critic, or, it feels like that voice is drowned out by critical messages you received from others on life’s journey. We can work together to help your inner wisdom lead.
(952) 900-5875 View (952) 900-5875
Photo of Dante Bender, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dante Bender
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life who are wanting to make a change in their life and learn more about themselves. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives and that I am there to help them discover their strengths and abilities that can help them find the well-being they seek.
I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life who are wanting to make a change in their life and learn more about themselves. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives and that I am there to help them discover their strengths and abilities that can help them find the well-being they seek.
(952) 592-5179 View (952) 592-5179
Photo of Jutone Lajoie, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jutone Lajoie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with having enough strength to get up every day and take care of yourself or engage in your responsibilities? Are you a woman trying to parent and figure out how to overcome generational stress or trauma? Be the best mom you can be? You know you're living a better life than you had but something still feels like it's missing? Are you making bad choices in relationships and with men? You're smart and you know better but you're stuck in a cycle? Are you married and struggling to like one another but you know you want to work it out? You've read so many books, done so much self-help you're going to explode.
Are you struggling with having enough strength to get up every day and take care of yourself or engage in your responsibilities? Are you a woman trying to parent and figure out how to overcome generational stress or trauma? Be the best mom you can be? You know you're living a better life than you had but something still feels like it's missing? Are you making bad choices in relationships and with men? You're smart and you know better but you're stuck in a cycle? Are you married and struggling to like one another but you know you want to work it out? You've read so many books, done so much self-help you're going to explode.
(612) 416-0862 View (612) 416-0862
Photo of Molly Shields-Englin, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Molly Shields-Englin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
Taking the initial step in your healing journey can be challenging, especially when the path ahead is unclear. Maybe you need someone to walk that path with you, and I would be honored to be that person. I am a faith-based psychotherapist who enjoys working with adolescent and adult individuals, couples, and families. Whether you are processing past trauma, navigating current relationships, or ready to learn new skills to be your best self, I am here to help.
Taking the initial step in your healing journey can be challenging, especially when the path ahead is unclear. Maybe you need someone to walk that path with you, and I would be honored to be that person. I am a faith-based psychotherapist who enjoys working with adolescent and adult individuals, couples, and families. Whether you are processing past trauma, navigating current relationships, or ready to learn new skills to be your best self, I am here to help.
(952) 295-3981 View (952) 295-3981
Photo of Amy Meyer, LPCC, Counselor
Amy Meyer
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
I am passionate about working with children and families to help them find emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation the growth and progress. I have substantial experience working with children 12 y.o. and under. Being a kid (or parent) is not easy, especially right now. I would love to support you and your child in whatever manner is needed. I enjoy teaching kids about emotions and calming strategies, helping process stressful or traumatic experiences, teaching social-emotional awareness, and providing guidance to parents.
I am passionate about working with children and families to help them find emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation the growth and progress. I have substantial experience working with children 12 y.o. and under. Being a kid (or parent) is not easy, especially right now. I would love to support you and your child in whatever manner is needed. I enjoy teaching kids about emotions and calming strategies, helping process stressful or traumatic experiences, teaching social-emotional awareness, and providing guidance to parents.
(952) 295-3418 View (952) 295-3418

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Burnsville, MN

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Burnsville, MN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% UCare
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Burnsville, MN see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Burnsville?

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.