Therapists in Wilder, TN

Photo of Brittanie D Mills, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittanie D Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilder, TN 38589  (Online Only)
More than anything, you want to save your marriage. You’ve been together for a long time and just want to be able to talk to each other without it turning into a fight every time. You feel disconnected from each other. You feel like you and your partner can’t even talk about simple stuff because you always disagree. Or worse yet, you’ve stopped listening to each other, or maybe even stopped caring. You feel like you and your partner are just roommates, instead of soulmates. You feel like it’s easier to just avoid each other, than run the risk of another hurtful argument. And you feel lonely, even though you share a home.
More than anything, you want to save your marriage. You’ve been together for a long time and just want to be able to talk to each other without it turning into a fight every time. You feel disconnected from each other. You feel like you and your partner can’t even talk about simple stuff because you always disagree. Or worse yet, you’ve stopped listening to each other, or maybe even stopped caring. You feel like you and your partner are just roommates, instead of soulmates. You feel like it’s easier to just avoid each other, than run the risk of another hurtful argument. And you feel lonely, even though you share a home.
(925) 335-6122 View (925) 335-6122

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel Simpkins - From The Ashes Therapeutic Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
From The Ashes Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Monterey, TN 38574  (Online Only)
Do you experience overwhelming feelings of anxiety or a depressed mood? Do you wrestle with low self-esteem or setting boundaries? Do you feel like your self-care practices are nonexistent? Are you struggling to find a way to deal with feelings of grief? It’s important that we choose to be healthier versions of ourselves and live authentically. I can give you the tools to achieve this outcome! My philosophy begins with the perspective that our thoughts control our feelings and our feelings control our actions. When we can change our thinking to be more adaptive, we can become the best versions of ourselves.
Do you experience overwhelming feelings of anxiety or a depressed mood? Do you wrestle with low self-esteem or setting boundaries? Do you feel like your self-care practices are nonexistent? Are you struggling to find a way to deal with feelings of grief? It’s important that we choose to be healthier versions of ourselves and live authentically. I can give you the tools to achieve this outcome! My philosophy begins with the perspective that our thoughts control our feelings and our feelings control our actions. When we can change our thinking to be more adaptive, we can become the best versions of ourselves.
(931) 271-5119 View (931) 271-5119
Photo of Jessica Lynn Bolin Edwards, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Lynn Bolin Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Clarkrange, TN 38553
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, adoption, trauma, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, mobile crisis, outpatient, and in-home. I feel like that is important to explain as, it means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, adoption, trauma, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, mobile crisis, outpatient, and in-home. I feel like that is important to explain as, it means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse.
(931) 202-9089 View (931) 202-9089

Online Therapists

Photo of Frances M Bledsoe, LCSW, CFAAMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances M Bledsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFAAMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
Life can be difficult at times. Perhaps you are wanting to make some changes in your life, or relationship. I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a kind and knowledgeable advocate to that process. You may have reservations about asking for support. Know that when you do, you are bravely moving yourself forward to a better tomorrow. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
Life can be difficult at times. Perhaps you are wanting to make some changes in your life, or relationship. I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a kind and knowledgeable advocate to that process. You may have reservations about asking for support. Know that when you do, you are bravely moving yourself forward to a better tomorrow. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
(615) 471-6298 View (615) 471-6298
Photo of Damaris Vargas, BA, CTC, CPC, Pastoral Counselor
Damaris Vargas
Pastoral Counselor, BA, CTC, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Hickory, TN 37138
AcceptingNewClients: Welcome... I'm "Demaris". I delight in working with ALL backgrounds/races. My passion is to lead others into holistic wellness and purpose. Truth is Pivotal for that transformation. If you have experienced issues related to Relationships, Marriage, Depression or Loneliness, don't postpone it. What challenges are you facing today? With your permission, we will work towards resolution of those things that may be depriving you from living your best. Perhaps, help you cope with the "here/now" through a healthy approach. The toughest part to seeking assistance is typically "taking the first step".../call/text/email.
AcceptingNewClients: Welcome... I'm "Demaris". I delight in working with ALL backgrounds/races. My passion is to lead others into holistic wellness and purpose. Truth is Pivotal for that transformation. If you have experienced issues related to Relationships, Marriage, Depression or Loneliness, don't postpone it. What challenges are you facing today? With your permission, we will work towards resolution of those things that may be depriving you from living your best. Perhaps, help you cope with the "here/now" through a healthy approach. The toughest part to seeking assistance is typically "taking the first step".../call/text/email.
(615) 685-6123 View (615) 685-6123
Photo of Mark H. Barnes, PhD, Psychologist
Mark H. Barnes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I welcome people with a wide range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general stress, as well as children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional and attentional problems. My approach is tailored to your needs and goals, but usually includes a focus on understanding how you got where you are. This kind of insight can be vitally important in figuring out a practical way to get to a better place in life. When working with kids and teens, I always involve their parents to some extent, so they can better understand and help their children.
I welcome people with a wide range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general stress, as well as children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional and attentional problems. My approach is tailored to your needs and goals, but usually includes a focus on understanding how you got where you are. This kind of insight can be vitally important in figuring out a practical way to get to a better place in life. When working with kids and teens, I always involve their parents to some extent, so they can better understand and help their children.
(865) 275-5913 View (865) 275-5913
Photo of Taylor Worley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Worley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Asking for help can be a hard and scary thing to do. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling. To me, therapy should be a safe space where you can be open, honest, and vulnerable without fear of judgment. Some of my areas of interest and specialized training include treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, and interpersonal/relationship challenges. In my practice, I primarily see adults and have a particular passion for working with women struggling with identity, self-esteem, relationship, & postpartum issues.
Asking for help can be a hard and scary thing to do. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling. To me, therapy should be a safe space where you can be open, honest, and vulnerable without fear of judgment. Some of my areas of interest and specialized training include treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, and interpersonal/relationship challenges. In my practice, I primarily see adults and have a particular passion for working with women struggling with identity, self-esteem, relationship, & postpartum issues.
(865) 822-8537 View (865) 822-8537
Photo of Alyssa J Marmo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa J Marmo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Along the way I have learned that a deeper understanding of self evolves from a deeper understanding of the “stuff” that causes us to think, believe, and behave in the way that we do. Most of the time, the “stuff” is handed down to us or imprinted on us in our childhood or from our experiences. If you are wanting to better understand yourself to break free from the patterns and cycles that may be consuming you, it would be my honor to join you on your journey of self-discovery. I am passionate about supporting those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Along the way I have learned that a deeper understanding of self evolves from a deeper understanding of the “stuff” that causes us to think, believe, and behave in the way that we do. Most of the time, the “stuff” is handed down to us or imprinted on us in our childhood or from our experiences. If you are wanting to better understand yourself to break free from the patterns and cycles that may be consuming you, it would be my honor to join you on your journey of self-discovery. I am passionate about supporting those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
(615) 235-6554 View (615) 235-6554
Photo of Kevin Vaughn, MAMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Vaughn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nolensville, TN 37135
Specializing in supporting men, couples, and teens (16+) through life's challenges, I focus on trauma, relationship issues, addiction, grief, parenting, and school-related concerns. I offer a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and evidence-based techniques to help you thrive. I taught high school science for 15 years before moving into counseling, so I have a unique understanding of how teens operate, how family dynamics change over time, and how complicated life can feel at times. I'm here to get you where you want to be.
Specializing in supporting men, couples, and teens (16+) through life's challenges, I focus on trauma, relationship issues, addiction, grief, parenting, and school-related concerns. I offer a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and evidence-based techniques to help you thrive. I taught high school science for 15 years before moving into counseling, so I have a unique understanding of how teens operate, how family dynamics change over time, and how complicated life can feel at times. I'm here to get you where you want to be.
(615) 285-6078 View (615) 285-6078
Photo of Evonna Surrette, LPC, MHSP, IMH-E, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evonna Surrette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, IMH-E
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37024  (Online Only)
Immediate Appointments Available! Brené Brown states "Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it." I am glad you are here, showing up and looking for a therapist can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Relationships are the agent for change. The therapeutic relationship can be that agent, whether you are here because you struggle with depression, anxiety, self doubt, I can help. My passion and desires is to provide high quality and highly effective services, meeting you where you are on your journey.
Immediate Appointments Available! Brené Brown states "Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it." I am glad you are here, showing up and looking for a therapist can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Relationships are the agent for change. The therapeutic relationship can be that agent, whether you are here because you struggle with depression, anxiety, self doubt, I can help. My passion and desires is to provide high quality and highly effective services, meeting you where you are on your journey.
(615) 288-5383 View (615) 288-5383
Photo of Caitlin Coile, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin Coile
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
(615) 471-7684 View (615) 471-7684
Photo of Victoria Murphree, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Murphree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tullahoma, TN 37388
Tori Murphree is passionate about creating a warm and safe space where individuals of all walks of life can find the healing they deserve. She has over 5 years of experience as a clinician and almost 10 years in the social work field treating a wide variety of issues with adults and adolescents. Tori utilizes an integrative and trauma informed approach specializing in EMDR.
Tori Murphree is passionate about creating a warm and safe space where individuals of all walks of life can find the healing they deserve. She has over 5 years of experience as a clinician and almost 10 years in the social work field treating a wide variety of issues with adults and adolescents. Tori utilizes an integrative and trauma informed approach specializing in EMDR.
(931) 329-2611 View (931) 329-2611
Photo of Trent Eisenbeisz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trent Eisenbeisz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience working as a clinician, therapist , and crisis interventionist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use problems, psychosis, and ADHD. I also helped people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. I would like to clarify my expertise does not include eating disorders, or pornography addiction as of yet, although I do understand some of the symptoms and causes.
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience working as a clinician, therapist , and crisis interventionist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use problems, psychosis, and ADHD. I also helped people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. I would like to clarify my expertise does not include eating disorders, or pornography addiction as of yet, although I do understand some of the symptoms and causes.
(629) 348-3090 View (629) 348-3090
Photo of Rachel Doyle, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Doyle
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
My passion is to meet clients where they are today so that they can grow a better tomorrow. I work primarily with couples and individuals (age 13+) from a variety of circumstances. Throughout my career, I have developed a passion for empowering clients with tools to increase confidence, practical communication skills within relationships, and incorporating self-care practices to promote healing within the self.
My passion is to meet clients where they are today so that they can grow a better tomorrow. I work primarily with couples and individuals (age 13+) from a variety of circumstances. Throughout my career, I have developed a passion for empowering clients with tools to increase confidence, practical communication skills within relationships, and incorporating self-care practices to promote healing within the self.
(865) 302-3201 View (865) 302-3201
Photo of Kendra Kay Cox, LMSW
Kendra Kay Cox
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am a Licensed Master of Social Work and am passionate about supporting women on their journey to and through parenthood. I have participated as a volunteer on the Still Birth Support Team for The Rooted Bridge, providing support to women and families who have experienced still birth. I also have experience in early childhood and infant mental health. I am working towards becoming an Infant Family Associate through AimHi Tennessee along with obtaining my Child Development Associate.
I am a Licensed Master of Social Work and am passionate about supporting women on their journey to and through parenthood. I have participated as a volunteer on the Still Birth Support Team for The Rooted Bridge, providing support to women and families who have experienced still birth. I also have experience in early childhood and infant mental health. I am working towards becoming an Infant Family Associate through AimHi Tennessee along with obtaining my Child Development Associate.
(615) 283-9282 View (615) 283-9282
Photo of Sandra Holt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
My name is Sandra Holt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in McMinnville, Tennessee, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Sandra Holt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in McMinnville, Tennessee, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(931) 535-5784 View (931) 535-5784
Photo of Katie Brown, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
Hi! I'm so glad you are here. Finding a therapist can be intimidating. I get it. This is a big, beautiful step you are taking. I want you to know that I value you as a life survivalist. Though it was painful, you have made it. You are a survivor. I would love the opportunity to create a safe space with you so that you may grow and evolve at your own pace in an environment where you are seen, heard, and accepted. My hope is for you to discover empowerment within yourself throughout our time together.
Hi! I'm so glad you are here. Finding a therapist can be intimidating. I get it. This is a big, beautiful step you are taking. I want you to know that I value you as a life survivalist. Though it was painful, you have made it. You are a survivor. I would love the opportunity to create a safe space with you so that you may grow and evolve at your own pace in an environment where you are seen, heard, and accepted. My hope is for you to discover empowerment within yourself throughout our time together.
(423) 564-5984 View (423) 564-5984
Photo of Angela Alexander, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angela Alexander
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I love assisting clients to access your internal resources, while offering support and guidance on a wide range of issues commonly encountered, such as women's and men's issues, career transitions, relationship dynamics, parenting struggles, stage of life transitions, self-esteem, marital issues and overall feeling of being stuck in life.
I love assisting clients to access your internal resources, while offering support and guidance on a wide range of issues commonly encountered, such as women's and men's issues, career transitions, relationship dynamics, parenting struggles, stage of life transitions, self-esteem, marital issues and overall feeling of being stuck in life.
(629) 276-3611 View (629) 276-3611
Photo of Dr. Matthew J Bruhin, PhD, LMFT, RAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Matthew J Bruhin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
What happened to the world? Do you feel out of hope? Do real solutions and answers to problems seem impossible to find? Take heart and hang in there! No matter how dark and trying things feel in this moment, there is hope and ability to change that can happen. Join me and my personally trained staff to help move beyond the madness, implement real and lasting results that focus on core changes. No matter if you have had years of treatment and therapy, or are new to counseling, become one of the many who have found answers working with us!
What happened to the world? Do you feel out of hope? Do real solutions and answers to problems seem impossible to find? Take heart and hang in there! No matter how dark and trying things feel in this moment, there is hope and ability to change that can happen. Join me and my personally trained staff to help move beyond the madness, implement real and lasting results that focus on core changes. No matter if you have had years of treatment and therapy, or are new to counseling, become one of the many who have found answers working with us!
(629) 465-4702 View (629) 465-4702
Photo of Lynn Hedrick, MEd, CLC
Lynn Hedrick
MEd, CLC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
My ideal client is a woman, from college age to mid 50’s, who is going though various life transitions, such as divorce/separation, career changes, navigation parenting/family dynamics, new relationships, and empty nesting. Life’s transitions aren’t always easy. Tackling these times with a life coach, however, makes approaching these times easier—and can even make them a positive pathway to your future. As a certified Life Coach, our sessions are oriented towards the future. With my assistance, clients should be ready to assess their goals and formulate plans to align values and actions with personal goals.
My ideal client is a woman, from college age to mid 50’s, who is going though various life transitions, such as divorce/separation, career changes, navigation parenting/family dynamics, new relationships, and empty nesting. Life’s transitions aren’t always easy. Tackling these times with a life coach, however, makes approaching these times easier—and can even make them a positive pathway to your future. As a certified Life Coach, our sessions are oriented towards the future. With my assistance, clients should be ready to assess their goals and formulate plans to align values and actions with personal goals.
(865) 419-7962 View (865) 419-7962

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Wilder, TN

< 10

Therapists in Wilder, TN who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% Spirituality
100% Other
100% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in Wilder, TN see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Wilder?

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.