Therapists in Franklin, PA

Photo of Mackenzie Danzer, LCSW, ACM-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mackenzie Danzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACM-SW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, PA 16323  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Kenzie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently accepting new clients through TalkSpace (online platform). I am here to help you have the life you have always wanted! Whether you're struggling with work, school, relationships, or family...I am here to work with you. I am here to walk alongside you and empower you to identify your inner strengths to be a happier and healthier version of you. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you.
Hi! My name is Kenzie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently accepting new clients through TalkSpace (online platform). I am here to help you have the life you have always wanted! Whether you're struggling with work, school, relationships, or family...I am here to work with you. I am here to walk alongside you and empower you to identify your inner strengths to be a happier and healthier version of you. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you.
View
Photo of Jane Barnett, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, PA 16323
Reaching out for help is a decision of courage and strength. Fear, shame, anxiety, loss or trauma can cause us to feel disconnected and isolated. Healing is an act that requires connection and witness. I believe that healing happens when we learn to respect autonomy as well as promote healthy system.
Reaching out for help is a decision of courage and strength. Fear, shame, anxiety, loss or trauma can cause us to feel disconnected and isolated. Healing is an act that requires connection and witness. I believe that healing happens when we learn to respect autonomy as well as promote healthy system.
(814) 686-7987 View (814) 686-7987
Photo of Caitlyn Rosenberger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlyn Rosenberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, PA 16323
I have a special interest in treating OCD and anxiety disorders, helping my clients learn techniques to live life on their terms instead of their fears. However, I also have interest in helping people struggling with relationship difficulties through couples counseling, perinatal and postpartum disorders, and life transitions. Sometimes we just need our feelings to be validated and heard and I am happy to do that for my clients and hold space for their emotions. I enjoy helping people heal from past hurts so that they can live more fully in the present.
I have a special interest in treating OCD and anxiety disorders, helping my clients learn techniques to live life on their terms instead of their fears. However, I also have interest in helping people struggling with relationship difficulties through couples counseling, perinatal and postpartum disorders, and life transitions. Sometimes we just need our feelings to be validated and heard and I am happy to do that for my clients and hold space for their emotions. I enjoy helping people heal from past hurts so that they can live more fully in the present.
(814) 523-5372 View (814) 523-5372
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Counselor
Verified Verified
Franklin, PA 16323
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 954-3692 View (724) 954-3692
Photo of Jaime Lynne Kadylak, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaime Lynne Kadylak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, PA 16323
I have a specialization in adult counseling although I provides mental health therapy to teens, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. I incorporate a variety of methods and techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Art and Music, and Mindful and Holistic therapies. I makes use of an eclectic therapy approach that draws on multiple theoretical orientations and techniques to address individual client needs.
I have a specialization in adult counseling although I provides mental health therapy to teens, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. I incorporate a variety of methods and techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Art and Music, and Mindful and Holistic therapies. I makes use of an eclectic therapy approach that draws on multiple theoretical orientations and techniques to address individual client needs.
(814) 347-8232 View (814) 347-8232

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Genevieve Melissa Crossley, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Genevieve Melissa Crossley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
Ever have an experience that left a “bad taste” in your mouth? As your Therapist, my job is to provide a safe and comforting environment for you. Therapy presents the opportunity to work through “struggle points”, “stuckness”, and those “settling moments” we may find ourselves in. I believe in resiliency, perseverance, and striving for ongoing growth. It is with great passion, I look forward to going on this journey with you to identify your strengths, help to obtain balance in your life, and explore purpose and meaning that can offer you with the greatest gift of all; “A deep sense of who you are”.
Ever have an experience that left a “bad taste” in your mouth? As your Therapist, my job is to provide a safe and comforting environment for you. Therapy presents the opportunity to work through “struggle points”, “stuckness”, and those “settling moments” we may find ourselves in. I believe in resiliency, perseverance, and striving for ongoing growth. It is with great passion, I look forward to going on this journey with you to identify your strengths, help to obtain balance in your life, and explore purpose and meaning that can offer you with the greatest gift of all; “A deep sense of who you are”.
View
Photo of Suzi Hartzell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzi Hartzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Seneca, PA 16346
I am Suzi Hartzell, the founder of Anchored, Counseling & Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania, with an in-person site based practice as well as an online platform through Grow Therapy. I am on a personal mission to promote positive mental health, healthy individual/family relationships, and thriving communities supporting various clients with diverse needs. I am specifically trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) through the Beck Institute, but well versed in several treatment modialities and as always my approach is based on each individuals needs.
I am Suzi Hartzell, the founder of Anchored, Counseling & Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania, with an in-person site based practice as well as an online platform through Grow Therapy. I am on a personal mission to promote positive mental health, healthy individual/family relationships, and thriving communities supporting various clients with diverse needs. I am specifically trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) through the Beck Institute, but well versed in several treatment modialities and as always my approach is based on each individuals needs.
(814) 328-4991 View (814) 328-4991
Photo of Nicki Cardilli, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicki Cardilli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
I am accepting clients in office/telehealth. With over two decades of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with children, teens and adults individually and with their families. I feel that my background working in inpatient, outpatient, residential and in-home settings enables me to help a variety of clients from all walks of life and backgounds in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My clinical approach most often includes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT.) I believe in drawing on individual and family strengths.
I am accepting clients in office/telehealth. With over two decades of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with children, teens and adults individually and with their families. I feel that my background working in inpatient, outpatient, residential and in-home settings enables me to help a variety of clients from all walks of life and backgounds in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My clinical approach most often includes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT.) I believe in drawing on individual and family strengths.
(724) 200-8612 View (724) 200-8612
Photo of Catia M. Fath, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catia M. Fath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
I am committed to guiding individuals toward inspired changes in a safe place without judgment. For over twenty years I've helped individuals with anxiety, depression, personality concerns, and relationship concerns. Each of us has unique needs, but can find new mindfulness and empowering self-awareness. Mindfulness can be a state of liberating awareness and also an active practice. It can promote psychological flexibility, a return to the present moment and the resolving of complex trauma-related problems. In the words of Clarice Lispector, "Life is for anyone who is brave enough to risk and humble enough to learn."
I am committed to guiding individuals toward inspired changes in a safe place without judgment. For over twenty years I've helped individuals with anxiety, depression, personality concerns, and relationship concerns. Each of us has unique needs, but can find new mindfulness and empowering self-awareness. Mindfulness can be a state of liberating awareness and also an active practice. It can promote psychological flexibility, a return to the present moment and the resolving of complex trauma-related problems. In the words of Clarice Lispector, "Life is for anyone who is brave enough to risk and humble enough to learn."
(412) 259-5077 View (412) 259-5077
Photo of Chaley Regina Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chaley Regina Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
I truly believe that all humans seek to be seen, heard, and understood. Life is hard, but no one has to do that alone. As a counselor, I hope to create a safe space where anyone can begin to acknowledge and tell their story. My humanistic approach is foundational to the counseling I provide. Depending on the client and the treatment goals, I will use a variety of theories and techniques. I wholeheartedly believe in positive psychology and love to help others see and seek their fullest potential.
I truly believe that all humans seek to be seen, heard, and understood. Life is hard, but no one has to do that alone. As a counselor, I hope to create a safe space where anyone can begin to acknowledge and tell their story. My humanistic approach is foundational to the counseling I provide. Depending on the client and the treatment goals, I will use a variety of theories and techniques. I wholeheartedly believe in positive psychology and love to help others see and seek their fullest potential.
(412) 501-9706 View (412) 501-9706
Photo of Christine E. Matthews - Never Journey Alone, LLC, LCSW, MBA, CLC, CCTP, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Never Journey Alone, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA, CLC, CCTP, BSP
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Congrats! YOU are taking the first step to changing your life or the life of someone you love. Life is a journey, but you do not have to do it alone! We are here to help you navigate through the therapeutic process using a strength based approach to therapy. With many years experience working with children , adolescents, and adults in residential, correctional, group homes, community, and acute hospital settings. It will be our pleasure to work with you at Never Journey Alone! This Office provides services for the states of Pennylvania and Delaware.
Congrats! YOU are taking the first step to changing your life or the life of someone you love. Life is a journey, but you do not have to do it alone! We are here to help you navigate through the therapeutic process using a strength based approach to therapy. With many years experience working with children , adolescents, and adults in residential, correctional, group homes, community, and acute hospital settings. It will be our pleasure to work with you at Never Journey Alone! This Office provides services for the states of Pennylvania and Delaware.
(267) 933-4507 View (267) 933-4507
Photo of Dr. Dante DeChellis, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Dante DeChellis
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319  (Online Only)
My style of being and interacting with others is a person-centered and humanistic approach. This involves non-judgmental support, exploration of experiences, and collaborating on support- navigating where you are in life and where you would like to be. This is not a linear journey, and my role is to be there for you along the way.
My style of being and interacting with others is a person-centered and humanistic approach. This involves non-judgmental support, exploration of experiences, and collaborating on support- navigating where you are in life and where you would like to be. This is not a linear journey, and my role is to be there for you along the way.
(724) 302-5394 View (724) 302-5394
Photo of Jessie D'Antonio, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessie D'Antonio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
Not accepting new clients
Unable to accept new clients at this time.I believe it takes strength and courage to acknowledge difficult experiences, feelings and life stressors. Sometimes things can build up individually or within relationships and become overwhelming.
Unable to accept new clients at this time.I believe it takes strength and courage to acknowledge difficult experiences, feelings and life stressors. Sometimes things can build up individually or within relationships and become overwhelming.
View
Photo of Sheri J Hindman-Hanley, LCSW, ACSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheri J Hindman-Hanley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Have you lost hope? One of the bravest things you can do is take the first step. It takes courage to ask for help when you feel stuck & out of energy to keep trying. Trust me, you should not give up. If you feel like you’ve tried everything but nothing works, & you’re exhausted from trying - know this - I can help. The stresses of life can be exhausting & overwhelming. You might feel like giving up - don’t! Consider giving me a chance. I can help you climb out of that dark place and take your life back. I am compassionate & well-trained with a history of success using solution-focused approaches. You will immediately feel better!
Have you lost hope? One of the bravest things you can do is take the first step. It takes courage to ask for help when you feel stuck & out of energy to keep trying. Trust me, you should not give up. If you feel like you’ve tried everything but nothing works, & you’re exhausted from trying - know this - I can help. The stresses of life can be exhausting & overwhelming. You might feel like giving up - don’t! Consider giving me a chance. I can help you climb out of that dark place and take your life back. I am compassionate & well-trained with a history of success using solution-focused approaches. You will immediately feel better!
(724) 304-9231 View (724) 304-9231
Photo of Moesha Yost, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moesha Yost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319  (Online Only)
I am a Mental Health Therapist who specializes in adolescent, young adult & adult mental health. I enjoy being able to walk alongside others in their life journey and to be a stable, and consistent support in their life. I have been in the mental health field for over 5 years now working with various populations of those who have experienced trauma throughout various forms of life. I have experience working with individuals with co-occurring disorders that consist of depression, anxiety, trauma, and additional life struggles & stressors a person is experiencing.
I am a Mental Health Therapist who specializes in adolescent, young adult & adult mental health. I enjoy being able to walk alongside others in their life journey and to be a stable, and consistent support in their life. I have been in the mental health field for over 5 years now working with various populations of those who have experienced trauma throughout various forms of life. I have experience working with individuals with co-occurring disorders that consist of depression, anxiety, trauma, and additional life struggles & stressors a person is experiencing.
(412) 615-3060 View (412) 615-3060
Photo of Connor Rinebold, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connor Rinebold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Connor and first and foremost I’m a professional counselor. My aim is to work with you in a way that the evidence of progress is apparent in your day to day experiences and relationships. That means you feel a greater sense of autonomy, belongingness, and competency. So when you're working with me you can expect to be treated with acceptance, positive regard, empathy, and trust. We can work together on building insight, coping skills, managing emotions, and improving relationships. I utilize interventions from various types of therapy to tailor sessions for you as an individual.
Hello! I’m Connor and first and foremost I’m a professional counselor. My aim is to work with you in a way that the evidence of progress is apparent in your day to day experiences and relationships. That means you feel a greater sense of autonomy, belongingness, and competency. So when you're working with me you can expect to be treated with acceptance, positive regard, empathy, and trust. We can work together on building insight, coping skills, managing emotions, and improving relationships. I utilize interventions from various types of therapy to tailor sessions for you as an individual.
(484) 760-0298 View (484) 760-0298
Photo of Joe Ritacco - The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
(412) 307-8865 View (412) 307-8865
Photo of Jen Kelly, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jen Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319
If it feels like you're in a constant battle within your mind, you're not alone. Many people experience negative thoughts and feelings that sometimes feel overwhelming. Maybe you're struggling with self-esteem, depression, or anxiety. Maybe you're confronting tension in your faith or close relationships. Perhaps you're left reeling after a life event. Big and small life changes alike can cause you to feel like your foundations are shaking. But whatever you may be experiencing, finding the right therapist can go a long way towards healing and growth. This is where I hope to help!
If it feels like you're in a constant battle within your mind, you're not alone. Many people experience negative thoughts and feelings that sometimes feel overwhelming. Maybe you're struggling with self-esteem, depression, or anxiety. Maybe you're confronting tension in your faith or close relationships. Perhaps you're left reeling after a life event. Big and small life changes alike can cause you to feel like your foundations are shaking. But whatever you may be experiencing, finding the right therapist can go a long way towards healing and growth. This is where I hope to help!
(724) 313-2201 View (724) 313-2201
Photo of Rahmah Albugami, MSEd, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rahmah Albugami
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranberry, PA 16319  (Online Only)
Are you facing the stress of life transitions or the weight of anxiety? You seek a therapist who understands your unique needs and supports your journey to emotional well-being. Your goal is clear: to find practical solutions and guidance for a happier, more fulfilling life. Let's work together to achieve the positive changes you desire.
Are you facing the stress of life transitions or the weight of anxiety? You seek a therapist who understands your unique needs and supports your journey to emotional well-being. Your goal is clear: to find practical solutions and guidance for a happier, more fulfilling life. Let's work together to achieve the positive changes you desire.
(412) 910-1812 View (412) 910-1812
Photo of Megan Dufford, PsyD, Psychologist
Megan Dufford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319  (Online Only)
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
(412) 253-7125 View (412) 253-7125

See more therapy options for Franklin

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Franklin, PA

< 10

Therapists in Franklin, PA who prioritize treating:

60% Relationship Issues
60% Depression
60% Anxiety
60% Grief
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Family Conflict
60% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Franklin, PA see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Franklin?

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.