Therapists in Springfield, IL

Photo of Melissa McCulloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Melissa McCulloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of change. Some of these changes can be difficult to navigate alone. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one or feeling overwhelmed and anxious with life in general, I am here to help. It can be challenging to cope with your own grief let alone the grief your child is experiencing. I have years of experience helping individuals of all ages cope with life changes.
Life is full of change. Some of these changes can be difficult to navigate alone. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one or feeling overwhelmed and anxious with life in general, I am here to help. It can be challenging to cope with your own grief let alone the grief your child is experiencing. I have years of experience helping individuals of all ages cope with life changes.
(217) 764-7560 View (217) 764-7560
Photo of Sedellia Strobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Sedellia Strobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
(217) 795-8616 View (217) 795-8616
Photo of Dr. Neil C. Headman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Dr. Neil C. Headman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Get help for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, PTSD, and more. With his advanced expertise and caring approach, Dr. Headman can help. You can experience significant improvement within a few sessions when you actively participate in counseling. Call today to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Headman! (217) 953-4660
Get help for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, PTSD, and more. With his advanced expertise and caring approach, Dr. Headman can help. You can experience significant improvement within a few sessions when you actively participate in counseling. Call today to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Headman! (217) 953-4660
(217) 279-4139 View (217) 279-4139
Photo of Oluwatamilore Odimayo, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Oluwatamilore Odimayo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Do you struggle with figuring out the aspects of your life that serve you and the aspects of your life you need to break up with? Do you struggle with identifying ways to deal with sources of depression and anxiety? Are you trying to figure out ways to live a happier and more content life aligned with your most authentic self? Now, more than ever, most people report feeling disconnected from their jobs, romantic relationships, familial relationships, and lives. Sometimes, the mind and body’s way of telling us that something needs to change is discomfort, which is our instinct’s way of sending an alert signal.
Do you struggle with figuring out the aspects of your life that serve you and the aspects of your life you need to break up with? Do you struggle with identifying ways to deal with sources of depression and anxiety? Are you trying to figure out ways to live a happier and more content life aligned with your most authentic self? Now, more than ever, most people report feeling disconnected from their jobs, romantic relationships, familial relationships, and lives. Sometimes, the mind and body’s way of telling us that something needs to change is discomfort, which is our instinct’s way of sending an alert signal.
(224) 444-6628 View (224) 444-6628
Photo of Brittany Helmich- Behavioral Health Center of IL., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Brittany Helmich- Behavioral Health Center of IL.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Brittany Helmich is a LCPC and CADC. She attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blackburn College and her Master's Degree in Clinical Adult Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Brittany’s clinical experience ranges from Wells Center, community mental health, both Gateway residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment, drug court, Memorial psychiatric response team and crisis counseling, and working with service members and their families through the Illinois Army and Air National Guard. Brittany’s therapeutic experience includes working with children,
Brittany Helmich is a LCPC and CADC. She attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blackburn College and her Master's Degree in Clinical Adult Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Brittany’s clinical experience ranges from Wells Center, community mental health, both Gateway residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment, drug court, Memorial psychiatric response team and crisis counseling, and working with service members and their families through the Illinois Army and Air National Guard. Brittany’s therapeutic experience includes working with children,
(217) 290-1345 View (217) 290-1345
Photo of Dr. Oluwatamilore 'tami' Odimayo, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Dr. Oluwatamilore 'tami' Odimayo
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Dr. Tamilore Odimayo is the author of the best-selling self-help book, How to be a Mental Health Savage. He is an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. He focuses on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. His extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). “Wellness requires a safe space to process what’s needed to achieve a social, physical, spiritual, financial & mental balance."
Dr. Tamilore Odimayo is the author of the best-selling self-help book, How to be a Mental Health Savage. He is an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. He focuses on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. His extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). “Wellness requires a safe space to process what’s needed to achieve a social, physical, spiritual, financial & mental balance."
(217) 269-0083 View (217) 269-0083
Photo of Salve Regina Counseling Center, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Salve Regina Counseling Center
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, FCP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62702
Not accepting new clients
EMDR Trauma Therapy + Personal Growth + Obsessive Thoughts, Anxiety, and Self Doubt + Chronic and Acute Medical Trauma + Reproductive and General Grief + Caregiver Burnout + Life Stage Transitions + Illinois licensed and nationally certified, Christian, Catholic, Melinda offers in person and telehealth counseling.
EMDR Trauma Therapy + Personal Growth + Obsessive Thoughts, Anxiety, and Self Doubt + Chronic and Acute Medical Trauma + Reproductive and General Grief + Caregiver Burnout + Life Stage Transitions + Illinois licensed and nationally certified, Christian, Catholic, Melinda offers in person and telehealth counseling.
(217) 773-5393 View (217) 773-5393
Photo of Benjamin A Rasche, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Benjamin A Rasche
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Anger, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can be very challenging. When we blow-up, it’s usually on the people we care the most about. When our relationships aren’t good, it can impact nearly everything we do. When anxiety or depression becomes too much, you can feel as though you are lost or constantly overwhelmed. I specialize in helping people who are overcome by anger, struggling with their relationships, drowning in depression, and/or frozen by anxiety. People who reach out to me for support realize they're not living the life they want. They know they’re capable of more and want to fix their situation.
Anger, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can be very challenging. When we blow-up, it’s usually on the people we care the most about. When our relationships aren’t good, it can impact nearly everything we do. When anxiety or depression becomes too much, you can feel as though you are lost or constantly overwhelmed. I specialize in helping people who are overcome by anger, struggling with their relationships, drowning in depression, and/or frozen by anxiety. People who reach out to me for support realize they're not living the life they want. They know they’re capable of more and want to fix their situation.
(217) 718-5787 View (217) 718-5787
Photo of Noel Nightingale-Follis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Noel Nightingale-Follis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Mental health is an essential and a basic part of overall health and wellbeing. All humans struggle at different times in our lives and experience hardships. During our lifespan on occasion we need assistance and a positive support system to work on goals and or help with presenting issues. Sometimes we need a set of new skills or tools, and or a soundboard to be heard and validated. My ideal patient is wanting to do the work and ready to make a positive change in their life.
Mental health is an essential and a basic part of overall health and wellbeing. All humans struggle at different times in our lives and experience hardships. During our lifespan on occasion we need assistance and a positive support system to work on goals and or help with presenting issues. Sometimes we need a set of new skills or tools, and or a soundboard to be heard and validated. My ideal patient is wanting to do the work and ready to make a positive change in their life.
(217) 599-6252 View (217) 599-6252
Photo of Denise Beeching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Springfield, IL
Denise Beeching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Denise received her master's degree from Mid-America Christian University in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has 5 years of experience as a counselor primarily working with couples and families but has also worked with kids in the foster care system. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Illinois. She has completed training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy. She has also completed Gottman's course on Treating Affairs and Trauma.
Denise received her master's degree from Mid-America Christian University in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has 5 years of experience as a counselor primarily working with couples and families but has also worked with kids in the foster care system. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Illinois. She has completed training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy. She has also completed Gottman's course on Treating Affairs and Trauma.
(217) 387-9889 View (217) 387-9889
Photo of Kristal Perry- Gutierrez, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Kristal Perry- Gutierrez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
(217) 814-0113 View (217) 814-0113
Photo of Ashti N Dawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Ashti N Dawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is to focus on what brings YOU into therapy and walk with you in your personal journey of healing.
My approach is to focus on what brings YOU into therapy and walk with you in your personal journey of healing.
(217) 717-4399 View (217) 717-4399
Behavioral Health Center of Il-Jesse Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Jesse Gutierrez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16+ years working with a wide range of clinical experiences in community mental health, Memorial Health Systems, Memorial Medical Center Employee Award, outpatient private practice, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois Crisis intervention programs, partial hospitalization Memorial Counseling Associates, Consulting, and Clinical Manager of Physicians Services at Vine Street. Jesse provides therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life changes and transitions, grief, self-esteem, anger management, and stress management.
Jesse Gutierrez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16+ years working with a wide range of clinical experiences in community mental health, Memorial Health Systems, Memorial Medical Center Employee Award, outpatient private practice, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois Crisis intervention programs, partial hospitalization Memorial Counseling Associates, Consulting, and Clinical Manager of Physicians Services at Vine Street. Jesse provides therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life changes and transitions, grief, self-esteem, anger management, and stress management.
(217) 269-8542 View (217) 269-8542
Photo of Vincent Flammini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Vincent Flammini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Nothing needs to change in the circumstances or particulars of our lives to rest as peace. In fact, the more we attempt to manipulate and alter the particulars of our lives in order to experience peace, the further we will (seem to) move from what we want. What to do? Nothing. Relax. Give up. Release the grip. Resign ourselves to leaving everything alone, letting everything be as it is. We will find that we have always been standing knee-deep in the very peace we have been looking for. What a relief.
Nothing needs to change in the circumstances or particulars of our lives to rest as peace. In fact, the more we attempt to manipulate and alter the particulars of our lives in order to experience peace, the further we will (seem to) move from what we want. What to do? Nothing. Relax. Give up. Release the grip. Resign ourselves to leaving everything alone, letting everything be as it is. We will find that we have always been standing knee-deep in the very peace we have been looking for. What a relief.
(217) 601-8068 x77 View (217) 601-8068 x77
Photo of Laura Oreilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Laura Oreilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I like to think of therapy as a time to gain perspective. I think people can gain a "bird's eye view" view of their life from therapy. Most individuals that I have helped come to therapy because they are "stuck". People get stuck in patterns of behaviors or thoughts, or stuck in relationship patterns. Therapy is a turning point in becoming "unstuck"; it is a time of growth and self-discovery and perspective. I welcome the opportunity to talk with you more about my approach and how we can work together.
I like to think of therapy as a time to gain perspective. I think people can gain a "bird's eye view" view of their life from therapy. Most individuals that I have helped come to therapy because they are "stuck". People get stuck in patterns of behaviors or thoughts, or stuck in relationship patterns. Therapy is a turning point in becoming "unstuck"; it is a time of growth and self-discovery and perspective. I welcome the opportunity to talk with you more about my approach and how we can work together.
(484) 699-0984 View (484) 699-0984
Photo of Sam Lunde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Sam Lunde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
In some way, life hasn't turned out exactly as you planned but you're not ready to give up. I've often found that, no matter the diagnosis, the folks I work with feel disconnected, dissatisfied, and struggle to create a meaningful life. You might worry so much about the future that you lie awake at night or miss out on special moments. You're overwhelmed and end up scrolling, numb with food or substances, or can't finish a book. You're keeping up on basic responsibilities but what you're doing isn't working long-term. Life has lost it's vibrancy. You may doubt that you can change and yet, here you are, taking that first step.
In some way, life hasn't turned out exactly as you planned but you're not ready to give up. I've often found that, no matter the diagnosis, the folks I work with feel disconnected, dissatisfied, and struggle to create a meaningful life. You might worry so much about the future that you lie awake at night or miss out on special moments. You're overwhelmed and end up scrolling, numb with food or substances, or can't finish a book. You're keeping up on basic responsibilities but what you're doing isn't working long-term. Life has lost it's vibrancy. You may doubt that you can change and yet, here you are, taking that first step.
(217) 773-5052 View (217) 773-5052
Photo of William Thomas Mitchell, Pastoral Counselor in Springfield, IL
William Thomas Mitchell
Pastoral Counselor, BA, MDiv, BCH
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Successful clients want change and I help people make real changes with the powerful and amazing tool of self-hypnosis. I have been practicing as a hypnotist/hypnotherapist since 1997 while also serving as a Pastor of several churches. My clients want to overcome fears, test anxiety, smoking habit/addiction, overeating, lose weight and increase confidence.
Successful clients want change and I help people make real changes with the powerful and amazing tool of self-hypnosis. I have been practicing as a hypnotist/hypnotherapist since 1997 while also serving as a Pastor of several churches. My clients want to overcome fears, test anxiety, smoking habit/addiction, overeating, lose weight and increase confidence.
(217) 207-2376 View (217) 207-2376
Photo of Stephanie A Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Stephanie A Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Whether you have hit a rough patch, realize the need to address old wounds, or feel as if you have lost your way, a mental health therapist can help guide you back and create a new path forward. Many people face seemingly insurmountable obstacles that may be rooted in personal life stories or internal or external forces that seem to be working against them. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them develop a path forward to a healthier and more fulfilling life. I believe all people possess strengths and the ability to effect change in their lives.
Whether you have hit a rough patch, realize the need to address old wounds, or feel as if you have lost your way, a mental health therapist can help guide you back and create a new path forward. Many people face seemingly insurmountable obstacles that may be rooted in personal life stories or internal or external forces that seem to be working against them. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them develop a path forward to a healthier and more fulfilling life. I believe all people possess strengths and the ability to effect change in their lives.
(217) 216-1684 View (217) 216-1684
Photo of Ameir Zeidan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Ameir Zeidan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling unsure about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, or express yourself in fear that you may be judged? You are not alone in this. I want to applaud your courage and bravery in taking that first step. I have helped those seeking help with a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, defiant behaviors, anger management, and coping with stress.
Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling unsure about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, or express yourself in fear that you may be judged? You are not alone in this. I want to applaud your courage and bravery in taking that first step. I have helped those seeking help with a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, defiant behaviors, anger management, and coping with stress.
(217) 616-2571 View (217) 616-2571
Photo of Marcia Plasters, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Marcia Plasters
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Sometimes in life we just want to be seen and heard by a compassionate and non-judgmental person - someone who listens in a way that makes us feel visible, valued and validated. I create a space where this happens for my clients, fully believing this enables healing from the past, freedom to live in the present and a strong sense of empowerment to reinvent yourself and create the future you desire. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or trauma, I am here for you. In light of the pandemic, you may just need extra support to learn coping strategies to maintain your best possible emotional health.
Sometimes in life we just want to be seen and heard by a compassionate and non-judgmental person - someone who listens in a way that makes us feel visible, valued and validated. I create a space where this happens for my clients, fully believing this enables healing from the past, freedom to live in the present and a strong sense of empowerment to reinvent yourself and create the future you desire. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or trauma, I am here for you. In light of the pandemic, you may just need extra support to learn coping strategies to maintain your best possible emotional health.
(217) 284-2957 View (217) 284-2957

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Springfield, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
84% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
67% Stress
64% Relationship Issues
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Springfield, IL see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
18% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.