Therapists in Hermon, ME

Photo of Kim Shaffer - Kim Shaffer, LCPC, Counseling Services LLC, LCPC, Counselor
Kim Shaffer, LCPC, Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hermon, ME 04401
Waitlist for new clients
Most of your friends think that you have a great marriage. You often post pictures of your happy family on social media, but deep down you know something is missing and it has been missing for awhile. Every time you try to talk with your partner, you end up in an argument. It seems that one of you is usually yelling and the other shutting down completely or running away.Both of you are left with no resolution to the problem and feeling angry, sad, and alone. You are not sure if therapy will help, but willing to do whatever it takes.
Most of your friends think that you have a great marriage. You often post pictures of your happy family on social media, but deep down you know something is missing and it has been missing for awhile. Every time you try to talk with your partner, you end up in an argument. It seems that one of you is usually yelling and the other shutting down completely or running away.Both of you are left with no resolution to the problem and feeling angry, sad, and alone. You are not sure if therapy will help, but willing to do whatever it takes.
(207) 209-1621 View (207) 209-1621

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amy K Cummings-Aponte - New Pathways Counseling LLC, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
New Pathways Counseling LLC
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
New Pathways is dedicated to providing quality counseling services to those living in the beautiful State of Maine. Amy is an LPC with 13+ years serving the community and she believes in the healing nature of connection. She states, "I am grateful to be invited into the lives of each individual, to witness their lived experiences, and walk beside them as they journey toward their goal." New Pathways helps those who may be experiencing or have experienced depression , anxiety, trauma and relationship difficulties.
New Pathways is dedicated to providing quality counseling services to those living in the beautiful State of Maine. Amy is an LPC with 13+ years serving the community and she believes in the healing nature of connection. She states, "I am grateful to be invited into the lives of each individual, to witness their lived experiences, and walk beside them as they journey toward their goal." New Pathways helps those who may be experiencing or have experienced depression , anxiety, trauma and relationship difficulties.
(207) 746-0689 View (207) 746-0689
Photo of Sarah A. Wakefield, RN, LCPC, LCMHC
Sarah A. Wakefield
Clinical Professional Counselor, RN, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
It is a nightmare: you don’t want to sleep, nor do you want to wake up. You go through the day feeling numb, empty and hopeless. Your world has turned upside down! Losing a loved one or hearing the words “you have a life-threatening illness” makes you want to scream, run away or curl up into a ball. “How can this be happening to me” You yearn for the world you once knew, one that was predictable, familiar and comfortable. You want to embrace the day, not dread it. Is it ever going to be possible to laugh, smile and be you again?
It is a nightmare: you don’t want to sleep, nor do you want to wake up. You go through the day feeling numb, empty and hopeless. Your world has turned upside down! Losing a loved one or hearing the words “you have a life-threatening illness” makes you want to scream, run away or curl up into a ball. “How can this be happening to me” You yearn for the world you once knew, one that was predictable, familiar and comfortable. You want to embrace the day, not dread it. Is it ever going to be possible to laugh, smile and be you again?
(802) 328-9657 View (802) 328-9657
Photo of Nicole Kay Phelan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Kay Phelan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe in creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space where you can feel heard and understood. My collaborative approach empowers you to embrace self-determination and take an active role in shaping your life. Using evidence-based techniques, I provide practical tools to help you overcome challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, or life transitions. Together, we’ll rediscover your values, strengths, and goals so you can move forward with confidence.
I believe in creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space where you can feel heard and understood. My collaborative approach empowers you to embrace self-determination and take an active role in shaping your life. Using evidence-based techniques, I provide practical tools to help you overcome challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, or life transitions. Together, we’ll rediscover your values, strengths, and goals so you can move forward with confidence.
(866) 607-4334 View (866) 607-4334
Photo of Sarah E Brasslett, MEd, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, CCTMHP, Counselor
Sarah E Brasslett
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, CCTMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am committed to supporting and empowering my clients on their path toward healing and growth. I believe that an encouraging, caring, and professional relationship is a critical component on this journey. I strive to create this kind of relationship with all of my clients, regardless of age, background, or obstacles. As a queer provider, I have a special passion for working with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Whatever your background and need, my goal is to create a safe and affirming counseling space. It would be my privilege and honor to support you on your wellness journey.
I am committed to supporting and empowering my clients on their path toward healing and growth. I believe that an encouraging, caring, and professional relationship is a critical component on this journey. I strive to create this kind of relationship with all of my clients, regardless of age, background, or obstacles. As a queer provider, I have a special passion for working with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Whatever your background and need, my goal is to create a safe and affirming counseling space. It would be my privilege and honor to support you on your wellness journey.
(207) 618-9780 View (207) 618-9780
Photo of Natalie Purnell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Purnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Book with me now by clicking on website. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with a history of over 20 years working with individuals and families facing substance use/misuse, addictions, couples navigating relationship challenges, and individuals and families across the life span. I care for adolescents, young adults and those wanting to reach new levels of life and relationship success, career counseling, premarital guidance, and helping individuals adjust to life's transitions, I am committed to providing strengths based support to those with a desire to improve their emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life.
Book with me now by clicking on website. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with a history of over 20 years working with individuals and families facing substance use/misuse, addictions, couples navigating relationship challenges, and individuals and families across the life span. I care for adolescents, young adults and those wanting to reach new levels of life and relationship success, career counseling, premarital guidance, and helping individuals adjust to life's transitions, I am committed to providing strengths based support to those with a desire to improve their emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life.
(321) 415-8607 View (321) 415-8607
Photo of Akamin Boyd - Akamin - Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Akamin - Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Veazie, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma-informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life. My theoretical approach is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy model.
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma-informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life. My theoretical approach is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy model.
(207) 705-8311 View (207) 705-8311
Photo of Donald Kent, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donald Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I'm Donald Kent, LCSW and I've been a professional counselor for roughly 40 years. I primarily use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients understand how their thoughts, actions and behaviors influence their emotional process and general happiness. Empathy is used as a tool to allow people to feel safe enough to approach issues that they may be fearful of in their daily experience.
I'm Donald Kent, LCSW and I've been a professional counselor for roughly 40 years. I primarily use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients understand how their thoughts, actions and behaviors influence their emotional process and general happiness. Empathy is used as a tool to allow people to feel safe enough to approach issues that they may be fearful of in their daily experience.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Jeremy Robichaud, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeremy Robichaud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
I came to the world of therapy the long way, following two decades of outdoor leadership, adventure group work, mountain guiding, and experiential education. I find many connections between my work as an outdoor leader and my work as a therapist. I believe the same principles used by leaders to help folks achieve their goals in the backcountry can apply to our everyday lives. I feel I can be most helpful to those who accept being challenged and are working towards goals.
I came to the world of therapy the long way, following two decades of outdoor leadership, adventure group work, mountain guiding, and experiential education. I find many connections between my work as an outdoor leader and my work as a therapist. I believe the same principles used by leaders to help folks achieve their goals in the backcountry can apply to our everyday lives. I feel I can be most helpful to those who accept being challenged and are working towards goals.
(207) 386-8647 View (207) 386-8647
Photo of Melinda Merrill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melinda Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Everyone needs support. Helping people work through the challenges that life holds is the deepest privilege. I believe in support, non-judgment, and providing space for people to make desired changes in their lives. Therapy can be hard work! Shorter term and focused on your goals tends to be the most beneficial for most people. How we understand ourselves and our place in the world is worth exploring. It’s super courageous to reach out and I respond to all emails or calls. Please know email responses sometimes go to the spam folder.
Everyone needs support. Helping people work through the challenges that life holds is the deepest privilege. I believe in support, non-judgment, and providing space for people to make desired changes in their lives. Therapy can be hard work! Shorter term and focused on your goals tends to be the most beneficial for most people. How we understand ourselves and our place in the world is worth exploring. It’s super courageous to reach out and I respond to all emails or calls. Please know email responses sometimes go to the spam folder.
(207) 204-3947 View (207) 204-3947
Photo of Charles Fenner Ball, LCPC, Counselor
Charles Fenner Ball
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Not accepting new clients
Life is hard. That's an understatement if there ever was one. We're bombarded with images of joyful, fulfilled people online and we might wonder what their secret is. In our culture, we learn to put on a happy face. We aren't allowed to struggle or feel down. As a therapist, this is part of what drives me - to normalize the suffering that is inherent in human life. And to assist people in finding ways to cope.
Life is hard. That's an understatement if there ever was one. We're bombarded with images of joyful, fulfilled people online and we might wonder what their secret is. In our culture, we learn to put on a happy face. We aren't allowed to struggle or feel down. As a therapist, this is part of what drives me - to normalize the suffering that is inherent in human life. And to assist people in finding ways to cope.
(505) 819-7678 View (505) 819-7678
Photo of Alana Leighton, MS, LCPC-C, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alana Leighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Counseling is something that has been negatively stigmatized for far too long. I applaud you for taking the first step towards not only fighting that stigma, but fighting for your own mental health. I’d like to put forward my most genuine and authentic self to work with you towards creating a healthier future where you can envision yourself a more stable and happy person. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and will to be as inclusive as possible.
Counseling is something that has been negatively stigmatized for far too long. I applaud you for taking the first step towards not only fighting that stigma, but fighting for your own mental health. I’d like to put forward my most genuine and authentic self to work with you towards creating a healthier future where you can envision yourself a more stable and happy person. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and will to be as inclusive as possible.
(207) 598-4069 View (207) 598-4069
Photo of Ashley Tison, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Ashley Tison
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist licensed in Maine and Florida. I have experience providing individual and group counseling and enjoy helping individuals move towards growth and healing. I believe having an emphasis on collaboration and creating a nonjudgmental space is essential for fostering trust and facilitating meaningful therapeutic work. I believe in treating the whole individual and not just the “symptoms”. My approach to treatment is a person-centered approach, meaning allowing clients to voice the areas they wish to work on in therapy.
I am a psychotherapist licensed in Maine and Florida. I have experience providing individual and group counseling and enjoy helping individuals move towards growth and healing. I believe having an emphasis on collaboration and creating a nonjudgmental space is essential for fostering trust and facilitating meaningful therapeutic work. I believe in treating the whole individual and not just the “symptoms”. My approach to treatment is a person-centered approach, meaning allowing clients to voice the areas they wish to work on in therapy.
(207) 477-7100 View (207) 477-7100
Photo of Russell Beebe, LCPC, CSAT, Counselor
Russell Beebe
Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04402  (Online Only)
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) helping men struggling with sexual addiction and/or porn addiction stop their compulsive sexual behavior and live healthy productive lives. Not being able to stop can be incredibly painful and frustrating. And harmful to those closest to you. Many times this frustration is made worse by an inability to stop despite a strong desire to do so. If you or someone you know struggles with sex addiction or porn addiction contact me to schedule a free 20 minute introduction to see if working with me is the right fit!
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) helping men struggling with sexual addiction and/or porn addiction stop their compulsive sexual behavior and live healthy productive lives. Not being able to stop can be incredibly painful and frustrating. And harmful to those closest to you. Many times this frustration is made worse by an inability to stop despite a strong desire to do so. If you or someone you know struggles with sex addiction or porn addiction contact me to schedule a free 20 minute introduction to see if working with me is the right fit!
(207) 672-2681 View (207) 672-2681
Photo of William Donahue - Behavioral Health Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Behavioral Health Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Not accepting new clients
Behavioral Health Center is a Maine licensed outpatient mental health facility. BHC offers outpatient therapy to children, adults, couples and groups. Our educated, highly respected and professional staff are committed to utilizing evidence-based best practices to provide counseling and psychotherapy for numerous treatment needs.
Behavioral Health Center is a Maine licensed outpatient mental health facility. BHC offers outpatient therapy to children, adults, couples and groups. Our educated, highly respected and professional staff are committed to utilizing evidence-based best practices to provide counseling and psychotherapy for numerous treatment needs.
(207) 613-4844 View (207) 613-4844
Photo of Wally Fraser, PhD, LCPC, CCS, Counselor
Wally Fraser
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I am working with clients on addressing underlying trauma and other causes of anxiety. I also specialize in working with first responders on a variety of issues. Currently, I am accepting referrals from first responders. These referrals will be prioritized. All other referrals will go on my waitlist.
I am working with clients on addressing underlying trauma and other causes of anxiety. I also specialize in working with first responders on a variety of issues. Currently, I am accepting referrals from first responders. These referrals will be prioritized. All other referrals will go on my waitlist.
(207) 690-6474 View (207) 690-6474
Photo of Michelle White, LMHC, MCAP, CCTSI, Counselor
Michelle White
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, CCTSI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04402
If depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, or addictions keep you up at night and interfere with your life, I would like to help you get to the bottom of it. With over 7 years of experience as a licensed clinician and 26 years in the field, I have developed specific skills and strategies that can help you find solutions & relief. Some of these treatment strategies include CBT, trauma treatment, body-focused somatic therapies (deep breathing, relaxation), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). You will develop specific skills to regulate your emotions and gain control over your life.
If depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, or addictions keep you up at night and interfere with your life, I would like to help you get to the bottom of it. With over 7 years of experience as a licensed clinician and 26 years in the field, I have developed specific skills and strategies that can help you find solutions & relief. Some of these treatment strategies include CBT, trauma treatment, body-focused somatic therapies (deep breathing, relaxation), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). You will develop specific skills to regulate your emotions and gain control over your life.
(813) 578-0775 View (813) 578-0775
Photo of Holly June Billings, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly June Billings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a clinical social worker and licensed alcohol and drug counselor and have over 17 years of experience working with a diverse population of people in a variety of settings. Each one recognized that something needed to shift or change or maybe everything. Change isn't easy and while most of us know when the writing is on the wall, it's beefing up the courage and finding a launching point that is often the biggest hurdle we face. Most of us know what we want and certainly what we don't want but it's putting it into action that is often the stumbling block.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a clinical social worker and licensed alcohol and drug counselor and have over 17 years of experience working with a diverse population of people in a variety of settings. Each one recognized that something needed to shift or change or maybe everything. Change isn't easy and while most of us know when the writing is on the wall, it's beefing up the courage and finding a launching point that is often the biggest hurdle we face. Most of us know what we want and certainly what we don't want but it's putting it into action that is often the stumbling block.
(207) 945-7759 View (207) 945-7759
Photo of Terri-Lynn Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri-Lynn Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
My name is Terri-Lynn Allen, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Maine, seeing clients statewide through telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, and trauma, using DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy to help my clients identify barriers to reaching their goals. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and daily stressors. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and a simply feeling overwhelmed.
My name is Terri-Lynn Allen, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Maine, seeing clients statewide through telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, and trauma, using DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy to help my clients identify barriers to reaching their goals. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and daily stressors. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and a simply feeling overwhelmed.
(866) 527-6448 View (866) 527-6448
Photo of Vincent Carrier, LPCC
Vincent Carrier
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Vincent Carrier MS, LCPC As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to understand how the past, whether family, relationships, traumatic events become the obstacles that prevent you from achieving YOUR goals. My efforts are focused on helping you recognize and understand how the mind collects, stores and uses this historical information. We work together to reduce and/or remove past issues, those obstacles that prevent you from having a happier, more fulfilled life. We work to develop coping strategies such as mindfulness and others.
Vincent Carrier MS, LCPC As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to understand how the past, whether family, relationships, traumatic events become the obstacles that prevent you from achieving YOUR goals. My efforts are focused on helping you recognize and understand how the mind collects, stores and uses this historical information. We work together to reduce and/or remove past issues, those obstacles that prevent you from having a happier, more fulfilled life. We work to develop coping strategies such as mindfulness and others.
(207) 614-0876 View (207) 614-0876

See more therapy options for Hermon

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hermon, ME

< 10

Therapists in Hermon, ME who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Parenting

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% APS Healthcare
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Hermon, ME see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hermon?

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.