Therapists in Oil City, PA
![Photo of Robert Miller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55680bc1-1fab-4e6a-be36-3b25e0e87064/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oil City, PA 16301 (Online Only)
My name is Bob Miller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been practicing full-time in the mental health field as an LPC since 2011. Having worked in many career fields over the years whether it's blue-collar or white-collar jobs. I believe I am able to better empathize with patients' issues of concern and better meet them where they are at any stage of their lives.
My name is Bob Miller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been practicing full-time in the mental health field as an LPC since 2011. Having worked in many career fields over the years whether it's blue-collar or white-collar jobs. I believe I am able to better empathize with patients' issues of concern and better meet them where they are at any stage of their lives.
![Photo of Jessie Sabella, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af10d502-d9fd-4097-9c89-8854e854bc00/2/320x400.png)
I often see people who struggle with symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety and center interventions with a mind-body approach. I provide a unique combination of treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, ESFT, and DBT. I approach mental health with a holistic lens, weaving many factors in treatment to enhance wellness. I believe the growth experienced during our most difficult times helps to transform and define the moments within our lives, and I am honored to help people grow after facing hardship, tragedy, and trauma.
I often see people who struggle with symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety and center interventions with a mind-body approach. I provide a unique combination of treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, ESFT, and DBT. I approach mental health with a holistic lens, weaving many factors in treatment to enhance wellness. I believe the growth experienced during our most difficult times helps to transform and define the moments within our lives, and I am honored to help people grow after facing hardship, tragedy, and trauma.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Christine E. Matthews - Never Journey Alone, LLC, LCSW, MBA, CLC, CCTP, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18764502-40a1-472b-8c7e-712ebd597924/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Krista Lion, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92f6c17e-8e61-486d-b408-d072e70e8c11/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, Welcome to Hummingbird Counseling Services! Clients I work with are seeking a compassionate and non-judgmental space to address anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image concerns, and low self-esteem. I provide effective coping skills, emotional support, and tools for building resilience. It is important that clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life's challenges.
Hi, Welcome to Hummingbird Counseling Services! Clients I work with are seeking a compassionate and non-judgmental space to address anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image concerns, and low self-esteem. I provide effective coping skills, emotional support, and tools for building resilience. It is important that clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life's challenges.
![Photo of Lauren Heaton, MS, ICAADC, CMHIMP, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc3d658a-2f47-412b-b5b2-3683f98d66f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Heaton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, ICAADC, CMHIMP, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Have you ever felt like there was something missing in your life? Have you ever had an obstacle that you felt so overwhelmed with that it exhausted you to even consider overcoming it? Have you hit the point in your life where you are not sure which direction to head, next? I believe that I can help. Join me on a journey of creating your best life, because I am firm in my beliefs that we truly become our strongest, most complete selves, in the wake of our greatest storms.
Have you ever felt like there was something missing in your life? Have you ever had an obstacle that you felt so overwhelmed with that it exhausted you to even consider overcoming it? Have you hit the point in your life where you are not sure which direction to head, next? I believe that I can help. Join me on a journey of creating your best life, because I am firm in my beliefs that we truly become our strongest, most complete selves, in the wake of our greatest storms.
![Photo of Megan Dufford, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/539eaaf0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Connor Rinebold, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7668f10c-f27f-44f7-a2fe-d543ed344e70/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Katie Lee, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d0d5464-b529-4ec8-a2df-5b09e228fb05/1/320x400.png)
Katie Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, PA 16323 (Online Only)
I work with individuals, families, and couples addressing complex issues such as mental illness, trauma, grief, poverty, pregnancy and parenting, marginalization, addiction, homelessness, and unemployment.
I work with individuals, families, and couples addressing complex issues such as mental illness, trauma, grief, poverty, pregnancy and parenting, marginalization, addiction, homelessness, and unemployment.
![Photo of Theo Bucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be3ed87b-ed3b-4850-83fa-16cca39d047b/1/320x400.png)
Hi - I am Taffie Bucci and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am a person-centered therapist who completely accepts where you are without judgment and where you'd like to be. My role is to empower you as you move forward in life. My focus areas are mood disorders, trauma (all kinds of trauma) and LGBTQ. I primarily work with young adults and adults - anyone over 18! We can discover what you'd like to work on in a collaborative way. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ and substance use.
Hi - I am Taffie Bucci and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am a person-centered therapist who completely accepts where you are without judgment and where you'd like to be. My role is to empower you as you move forward in life. My focus areas are mood disorders, trauma (all kinds of trauma) and LGBTQ. I primarily work with young adults and adults - anyone over 18! We can discover what you'd like to work on in a collaborative way. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ and substance use.
![Photo of Jaime Lynne Kadylak, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f7ba1f8-b5ca-4b5d-b4da-c91c40f2fcd6/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Nicki Cardilli, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6067aea9-2951-448c-bf9c-a2223c22948c/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/549f5c37-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jessie D'Antonio, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d4a1fdd-4fff-43ef-b380-8228aec489ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rahmah Albugami, MSEd, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d1ff72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Dante DeChellis, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b739d3c0-8769-4d44-a23e-4b0dab5dd03f/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Chaley Regina Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451bd79b-88e1-4b5a-9599-abc4428ddbf1/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Caitlyn Rosenberger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/862bc4c3-23c0-4013-a006-872e81ce5fa0/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Katie Robb Sewall, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b9222b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Robb Sewall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cranberry, PA 16319
Waitlist for new clients
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. I work primarily with adults experiencing emotional challenges. This often looks like depression, anxiety, or grief. I also work with individuals going through a transition in life, relationships, career, or health status. During a difficult season in life we are more open to learning new skills and perspectives.
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. I work primarily with adults experiencing emotional challenges. This often looks like depression, anxiety, or grief. I also work with individuals going through a transition in life, relationships, career, or health status. During a difficult season in life we are more open to learning new skills and perspectives.
![Photo of Joe Ritacco - The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b68b7291-3c01-4e6c-af00-650b35e41612/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Moesha Yost, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af1a5427-3abe-452d-8eb7-1bf2b8bdfae0/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Oil City
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Oil City, PA
< 10
Therapists in Oil City, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Grief |
Average years in practice
20 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Elevance |
How Therapists in Oil City, PA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Oil City?
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
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.
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.
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.