Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR

Photo of Jenna Babcock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Jenna Babcock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
As a therapist I am warm, compassionate, strength-based, authentic, and open-minded. I strongly believe that individuals and families are resilient and can grow and heal when engaged in a collaborative process with the right therapist. I will work together with you to make sure that you feel supported in your journey towards healing and growth. I am highly collaborative, authentic, and transparent. I will always strive to find the best approach for you and/or your family. I endeavor to create an environment that fosters mutual respect, growth, curiosity, and hope.
As a therapist I am warm, compassionate, strength-based, authentic, and open-minded. I strongly believe that individuals and families are resilient and can grow and heal when engaged in a collaborative process with the right therapist. I will work together with you to make sure that you feel supported in your journey towards healing and growth. I am highly collaborative, authentic, and transparent. I will always strive to find the best approach for you and/or your family. I endeavor to create an environment that fosters mutual respect, growth, curiosity, and hope.
(503) 664-9290 View (503) 664-9290
Photo of Allyson Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Allyson Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I have been a mental health professional for 25 years, and I have had the privilege to work with adults from a wide variety of backgrounds. My passion is to build a strong trusting relationship with my clients and to help them clarify both their challenges and strengths so that they can find their path to healing. My clients often come into therapy feeling lost or confused, and they are able to learn that with a bit of hard work and perseverance, they can start making progress one step at a time.
I have been a mental health professional for 25 years, and I have had the privilege to work with adults from a wide variety of backgrounds. My passion is to build a strong trusting relationship with my clients and to help them clarify both their challenges and strengths so that they can find their path to healing. My clients often come into therapy feeling lost or confused, and they are able to learn that with a bit of hard work and perseverance, they can start making progress one step at a time.
(503) 832-4509 View (503) 832-4509
Photo of Michele A Gilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Michele A Gilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Not accepting new clients
As a seasoned psychodynamic therapist, I work to facilitate healing and change within a supportive environment. I am insight oriented, relational and interactive in my approach. By tending to the self, within the context of past and present relationships, my clients are able to explore and shift their sense of identity, esteem and life goals. Clearing stress, increasing happiness and life satisfaction are the focus.
As a seasoned psychodynamic therapist, I work to facilitate healing and change within a supportive environment. I am insight oriented, relational and interactive in my approach. By tending to the self, within the context of past and present relationships, my clients are able to explore and shift their sense of identity, esteem and life goals. Clearing stress, increasing happiness and life satisfaction are the focus.
(503) 349-4435 View (503) 349-4435
Photo of Jill Corvelli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Jill Corvelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, Supvsr
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Complex couples- often neurodiverse- but not necessarily, are the clients I mostly serve. You may be experiencing issues in connection-communication-productive conflict OR you may be hoping to deepen your connection OR get unstuck from the past, which shows up in the present and triggers and impedes your work. I teach you a safe frame to connect in, then the therapy between you is within that frame between the 2 of you.
Complex couples- often neurodiverse- but not necessarily, are the clients I mostly serve. You may be experiencing issues in connection-communication-productive conflict OR you may be hoping to deepen your connection OR get unstuck from the past, which shows up in the present and triggers and impedes your work. I teach you a safe frame to connect in, then the therapy between you is within that frame between the 2 of you.
View
Photo of Therapy for BIPOC persons and womxn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Therapy for BIPOC persons and womxn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Is it getting exhausting to hold everything in? You don't have to go through this alone. I aim to help BIPOC persons and womxn looking for a therapist who understands your unique needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, racial identity, or racial trauma I believe you deserve to be seen and heard. It would be my honor to support you on your healing journey.
Is it getting exhausting to hold everything in? You don't have to go through this alone. I aim to help BIPOC persons and womxn looking for a therapist who understands your unique needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, racial identity, or racial trauma I believe you deserve to be seen and heard. It would be my honor to support you on your healing journey.
(503) 486-4896 View (503) 486-4896
Photo of Kelly Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Kelly Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist and I am so excited you are on this journey for yourself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at Senua Counseling Clinic, with many years of experience providing counseling for individuals and couples. I provide both in person and virtual therapy options. It is an absolute privilege to work collaboratively with my clients to help them achieve the quality of life they desire and I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients to discover themselves in.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist and I am so excited you are on this journey for yourself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at Senua Counseling Clinic, with many years of experience providing counseling for individuals and couples. I provide both in person and virtual therapy options. It is an absolute privilege to work collaboratively with my clients to help them achieve the quality of life they desire and I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients to discover themselves in.
(503) 743-0565 View (503) 743-0565
Photo of Kellie Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Kellie Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
As a mental health therapist, and clinic director at Senua Counseling Clinic, I work from a client centered, integrative approach. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), client centered treatment, and solution focused therapy. I also believe that we need to work together, as a team, to help you achieve your goals. The body and mind are greatly connected and intertwined, which is why I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. I am happy and honored to provide you with a non-judgmental, safe space for you to tell your story, set your goals, and become the person you were meant to be.
As a mental health therapist, and clinic director at Senua Counseling Clinic, I work from a client centered, integrative approach. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), client centered treatment, and solution focused therapy. I also believe that we need to work together, as a team, to help you achieve your goals. The body and mind are greatly connected and intertwined, which is why I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. I am happy and honored to provide you with a non-judgmental, safe space for you to tell your story, set your goals, and become the person you were meant to be.
(503) 427-9257 View (503) 427-9257
Photo of Lisa Gabardi, PhD, LLC, Psychologist in Lake Oswego, OR
Lisa Gabardi, PhD, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I provide a supportive, compassionate environment combined with practical guidance to promote your strengths, clarify your values and goals, and develop flexible thinking and new habits. Because I believe that when life challenges are met with compassion and practical guidance, the challenges become a catalyst for healing, resilience, and developing your best self. I consider psychotherapy to be a collaborative process, utilizing my expertise and your strengths to meet your goals. I actively participate in the therapy process, supporting your efforts toward sustainable change in your life.
I provide a supportive, compassionate environment combined with practical guidance to promote your strengths, clarify your values and goals, and develop flexible thinking and new habits. Because I believe that when life challenges are met with compassion and practical guidance, the challenges become a catalyst for healing, resilience, and developing your best self. I consider psychotherapy to be a collaborative process, utilizing my expertise and your strengths to meet your goals. I actively participate in the therapy process, supporting your efforts toward sustainable change in your life.
(503) 831-9614 View (503) 831-9614
Photo of Dana Denny, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lake Oswego, OR
Dana Denny
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I believe that therapy is a collaborative, sacred space where clients bring themselves and their stories. Using your stories and experiences, our work together will center on your present circumstance as well as your hopes and expectations for the future. As a systems and attachment trained intern, our work together may involve exploring your patterns in relationships, responses to trauma, what you value, social challenges you experience, and/or your strengths and resources. Our therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance to me. Honesty and vulnerability will be a crucial aspect of our therapeutic relationship.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative, sacred space where clients bring themselves and their stories. Using your stories and experiences, our work together will center on your present circumstance as well as your hopes and expectations for the future. As a systems and attachment trained intern, our work together may involve exploring your patterns in relationships, responses to trauma, what you value, social challenges you experience, and/or your strengths and resources. Our therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance to me. Honesty and vulnerability will be a crucial aspect of our therapeutic relationship.
(503) 461-1367 View (503) 461-1367
Photo of Margot Miles, Hypnotherapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Margot Miles, Hypnotherapist
CHT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Have you been feeling stressed, stuck or overwhelmed? Finding it difficult to stop unhealthy thoughts, habits or behaviors? Hypnosis can help.
Have you been feeling stressed, stuck or overwhelmed? Finding it difficult to stop unhealthy thoughts, habits or behaviors? Hypnosis can help.
(503) 442-6221 View (503) 442-6221
Photo of Sherry Brown-Sat Appts Therapist Mediator, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Sherry Brown-Sat Appts Therapist Mediator
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, SUDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
There are times in all of our lives when problems arise. Some are easily managed and others are not. Individual therapy involves working on a one-on-one basis with a therapist to plan and to create positive changes in your life. People come for therapy for a number of different reasons including treatment for depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, dissatisfaction with life, alcohol abuse, resolving past trauma, feelings of emptiness, abuse and stress management. Additionally, ongoing therapy is a common and useful means for self-growth. A therapist needs to be a good 'fit' and I believe that trust is earned and sacred.
There are times in all of our lives when problems arise. Some are easily managed and others are not. Individual therapy involves working on a one-on-one basis with a therapist to plan and to create positive changes in your life. People come for therapy for a number of different reasons including treatment for depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, dissatisfaction with life, alcohol abuse, resolving past trauma, feelings of emptiness, abuse and stress management. Additionally, ongoing therapy is a common and useful means for self-growth. A therapist needs to be a good 'fit' and I believe that trust is earned and sacred.
(971) 318-6028 View (971) 318-6028
Photo of Cliff Johannsen, Psychologist in Lake Oswego, OR
Cliff Johannsen
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I strive to provide care that is customized to your unique strengths and weaknesses. The approach I use is called "integrative" in that thoughts, actions, emotions, and relationships are addressed. I understand that it isn't always easy to talk about problems. I'm patient, and I ask plenty of questions to better understand. To me therapy implies collaboration, where we both work hard toward successful outcomes. I tend to be a pretty active therapist, but I also know how to quietly listen when that fits you better.
I strive to provide care that is customized to your unique strengths and weaknesses. The approach I use is called "integrative" in that thoughts, actions, emotions, and relationships are addressed. I understand that it isn't always easy to talk about problems. I'm patient, and I ask plenty of questions to better understand. To me therapy implies collaboration, where we both work hard toward successful outcomes. I tend to be a pretty active therapist, but I also know how to quietly listen when that fits you better.
(503) 388-6216 View (503) 388-6216
Photo of Kimberley Dockery, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Kimberley Dockery
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
My hope is to help my clients create possibilities for change in their relationship with self, family, and health. My personal values of compassion, care, and respect are mutual in my practice. I believe we can narrow down what you desire to address and set some simple, realistic goals so you can feel connected to your core values and positive beliefs again.
My hope is to help my clients create possibilities for change in their relationship with self, family, and health. My personal values of compassion, care, and respect are mutual in my practice. I believe we can narrow down what you desire to address and set some simple, realistic goals so you can feel connected to your core values and positive beliefs again.
View
Photo of Suzanne B Schoenfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Suzanne B Schoenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Do you have a problematic relationship in your life? Do these difficulties seem impossible to fix? This could be an intimate relationship, but it could also be a boss, an adult child, a friend or a co-worker. We can work together to figure out what is going on, and the best way to approach a solution.
Do you have a problematic relationship in your life? Do these difficulties seem impossible to fix? This could be an intimate relationship, but it could also be a boss, an adult child, a friend or a co-worker. We can work together to figure out what is going on, and the best way to approach a solution.
(503) 994-1348 View (503) 994-1348
Photo of Darla Hailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Darla Hailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
As a therapist, my goal in therapy is to help you identify changes you want to make and create a path together to make those changes that lead you to “out-grow” therapy. I am solution focused, utilizing action-oriented therapies, with over 30 years of clinical experience treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I have extensive experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings with strong therapeutic, crisis intervention and educational skills that lead to decreasing negative symptoms and increasing productivity and feeling better.
As a therapist, my goal in therapy is to help you identify changes you want to make and create a path together to make those changes that lead you to “out-grow” therapy. I am solution focused, utilizing action-oriented therapies, with over 30 years of clinical experience treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I have extensive experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings with strong therapeutic, crisis intervention and educational skills that lead to decreasing negative symptoms and increasing productivity and feeling better.
(503) 479-4127 View (503) 479-4127
Photo of Zach Edmund, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Zach Edmund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Hi There! Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Oregon and have more than eight years experience working in mental health. Facilitating growth and healing in others is my passion and drives my work as a counselor. I work from a multi-cultural, client-centered approach. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable space for clients to collaboratively explore themselves. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and a solution focused approach. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and other underserved communities.
Hi There! Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Oregon and have more than eight years experience working in mental health. Facilitating growth and healing in others is my passion and drives my work as a counselor. I work from a multi-cultural, client-centered approach. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable space for clients to collaboratively explore themselves. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and a solution focused approach. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and other underserved communities.
(503) 966-2313 View (503) 966-2313
Photo of Tracie A McDowell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Tracie A McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
My ideal clients are adults who have anxiety, panic, phobias, adjustment difficulties, and who are adult survivors of childhood trauma. My clients often struggle with feeling alone or ashamed of their feelings or experiences. Some have experienced criticism for how they've dealt with their struggles. Others have an inner critic that keeps them awake at night. My clients want peace of mind. They want to learn how to effectively address anxiety and stress and work toward an improved sense of self.
My ideal clients are adults who have anxiety, panic, phobias, adjustment difficulties, and who are adult survivors of childhood trauma. My clients often struggle with feeling alone or ashamed of their feelings or experiences. Some have experienced criticism for how they've dealt with their struggles. Others have an inner critic that keeps them awake at night. My clients want peace of mind. They want to learn how to effectively address anxiety and stress and work toward an improved sense of self.
(503) 539-2760 View (503) 539-2760
Photo of Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Oswego, OR
Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oregon providing mental health services in Oregon since 2010. I provide in-person and virtual trauma-informed therapy, respecting diversity and multiculturalism. My philosophy and approach towards treatment is person-centered, with the belief that each person has all the answers, and the ability to solve their problems within themselves. I see my role as an assistant in reaching the best solution for each person’s unique situation. I specialize in working with couples, families, individuals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and those who work from home.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oregon providing mental health services in Oregon since 2010. I provide in-person and virtual trauma-informed therapy, respecting diversity and multiculturalism. My philosophy and approach towards treatment is person-centered, with the belief that each person has all the answers, and the ability to solve their problems within themselves. I see my role as an assistant in reaching the best solution for each person’s unique situation. I specialize in working with couples, families, individuals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and those who work from home.
(458) 218-8694 View (458) 218-8694
Photo of Gregory R. Culver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Oswego, OR
Gregory R. Culver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
My goal is to provide a supportive environment and to establish a working relationship with individuals and families seeking strategies to improve their overall sense of well-being and daily functioning. In our first appointment, we will work to identify current concerns and learn skills to help address stress, anxiety, mood, motivation, problem solving and improved communication. Over time, I hope that clients will gain insight into the origins of current issues, develop an array of useful coping and interpersonal skills and more adaptive thought processes to create lasting and positive changes.
My goal is to provide a supportive environment and to establish a working relationship with individuals and families seeking strategies to improve their overall sense of well-being and daily functioning. In our first appointment, we will work to identify current concerns and learn skills to help address stress, anxiety, mood, motivation, problem solving and improved communication. Over time, I hope that clients will gain insight into the origins of current issues, develop an array of useful coping and interpersonal skills and more adaptive thought processes to create lasting and positive changes.
(503) 694-4695 View (503) 694-4695
Photo of Vibhuti (Vee) with Ally Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lake Oswego, OR
Vibhuti (Vee) with Ally Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hello and Welcome! I am grateful to be doing work I love and find it immensely rewarding to be your ally in creating profound and lasting positive changes in your life. My therapeutic role is as a thought partner in helping clients strengthen one's inherent resilience. Several clients have stated they've had "more progress from one session than months of previous therapy." I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds also, a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities. Acknowledge systems of oppression, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
Hello and Welcome! I am grateful to be doing work I love and find it immensely rewarding to be your ally in creating profound and lasting positive changes in your life. My therapeutic role is as a thought partner in helping clients strengthen one's inherent resilience. Several clients have stated they've had "more progress from one session than months of previous therapy." I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds also, a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities. Acknowledge systems of oppression, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
(503) 300-5671 View (503) 300-5671

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$169

Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

58% PacificSource
47% Aetna
44% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lake Oswego?

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.