Therapists in Somerset, NJ

Photo of Kimberly L Massey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerset, NJ
Kimberly L Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
Kimberly graduated from Rutgers University-New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She went on to pursue her dream of helping others by obtaining a Masters degree in Social Work at New York University. She completed the clinical program at NYU and began working as a children’s and family therapist. She has experience working in inpatient hospitals, partial hospitals, foster care programs, schools, and outpatient settings to provide children and their families with individual, group and family therapy.
Kimberly graduated from Rutgers University-New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She went on to pursue her dream of helping others by obtaining a Masters degree in Social Work at New York University. She completed the clinical program at NYU and began working as a children’s and family therapist. She has experience working in inpatient hospitals, partial hospitals, foster care programs, schools, and outpatient settings to provide children and their families with individual, group and family therapy.
(856) 474-1038 View (856) 474-1038
Photo of Judith Velez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerset, NJ
Judith Velez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Are you stressed? Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns that bring you unhappiness? Is anxiety ruling too much of your every day living? With the help of psychotherapy and/or hypnosis, I have seen people improve their lives in significant ways. I can share the most current techniques and approaches to relieve distress in areas such as coping skills, communication and relationship conflicts. Imagine feeling better about yourself and your situation. If you are reading this, you are already considering the idea of improving your life. Take the next step and call to make an appointment.
Are you stressed? Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns that bring you unhappiness? Is anxiety ruling too much of your every day living? With the help of psychotherapy and/or hypnosis, I have seen people improve their lives in significant ways. I can share the most current techniques and approaches to relieve distress in areas such as coping skills, communication and relationship conflicts. Imagine feeling better about yourself and your situation. If you are reading this, you are already considering the idea of improving your life. Take the next step and call to make an appointment.
(732) 709-1115 View (732) 709-1115
Photo of Michelle Badger Lpc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somerset, NJ
Michelle Badger Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
It is difficult to find the courage to seek help for the struggles you are facing. Once you are able to gain that courage we can work together to find strategies and solutions to assist you in reaching your potential in any area that is currently challenging for you.
It is difficult to find the courage to seek help for the struggles you are facing. Once you are able to gain that courage we can work together to find strategies and solutions to assist you in reaching your potential in any area that is currently challenging for you.
(732) 666-9756 View (732) 666-9756
Photo of Sandi Fields, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerset, NJ
Sandi Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Not accepting new clients
*CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* So many things have changed over the last few weeks. Are you overloaded or underwhelmed? We all have different circumstances that we are dealing with in these uncertain times. Maybe you need assistance dealing with this new way of life or you desire to enhance the one you've been living. It is the most challenging of times, that we are offered the opportunity for healing and growth. If you are feeling unsettled within yourself, find that your relationships are being tested or you feel there is more to life but unsure how to get to the next level, it would be my pleasure to assist you.
*CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* So many things have changed over the last few weeks. Are you overloaded or underwhelmed? We all have different circumstances that we are dealing with in these uncertain times. Maybe you need assistance dealing with this new way of life or you desire to enhance the one you've been living. It is the most challenging of times, that we are offered the opportunity for healing and growth. If you are feeling unsettled within yourself, find that your relationships are being tested or you feel there is more to life but unsure how to get to the next level, it would be my pleasure to assist you.
(732) 451-7883 View (732) 451-7883
Photo of Rory A Panter, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Rory A Panter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I am a Licensed Psychologist in New Jersey at Behavior Therapy Assocates (BTA) and have been the Program Director of the North New Jersey Campus of HI-STEP® Summer Program since 2008. I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, anxiety disorders, and training parents on behavior management strategies to improve child behavior.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in New Jersey at Behavior Therapy Assocates (BTA) and have been the Program Director of the North New Jersey Campus of HI-STEP® Summer Program since 2008. I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, anxiety disorders, and training parents on behavior management strategies to improve child behavior.
(848) 373-0544 View (848) 373-0544
Photo of Audra Yacka, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Audra Yacka
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Hi! Are you ready to make some changes in your life? Or wondering if that’s even possible? I can help you start to understand how you got to where you are and consider possibilities to get to where you want to be. Change is possible, and I’m here to help.
Hi! Are you ready to make some changes in your life? Or wondering if that’s even possible? I can help you start to understand how you got to where you are and consider possibilities to get to where you want to be. Change is possible, and I’m here to help.
(848) 214-9890 View (848) 214-9890
Photo of Dr. Deborah Riviere, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Dr. Deborah Riviere
Psychologist, EdD, LCADC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I am a cognitive therapist, trained at the Beck Institute of Cognitive Therapy, with over 25 years of experience in individual and group therapy and clinical supervision. I am effective in engaging individuals, adolescents and couples in learning skills to: strengthen overall coping abilities, improve relationships, achieve valued life goals, and become their own therapists. Clients that I work with praise not only my skills and competence but also my warmth and wisdom.
I am a cognitive therapist, trained at the Beck Institute of Cognitive Therapy, with over 25 years of experience in individual and group therapy and clinical supervision. I am effective in engaging individuals, adolescents and couples in learning skills to: strengthen overall coping abilities, improve relationships, achieve valued life goals, and become their own therapists. Clients that I work with praise not only my skills and competence but also my warmth and wisdom.
(732) 412-6494 View (732) 412-6494
Photo of Curren M. Whitfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerset, NJ
Curren M. Whitfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873
I understand that a child who struggles at home or school with strong emotions or behavioral challenges, requires a lot of time and attention, seems angry, withdrawn, sensitive, or just doesn’t seem themselves, may leave a parent feeling frustrated, worried and exhausted. You want your child to do well and be happy, but you're unsure what will help. It can be difficult to find the right resources to address: low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, behavioral outbursts, and difficulty maintaining positive relationships. I specialize in working with children ages 3+ to improve functioning and establish healthy family connection.
I understand that a child who struggles at home or school with strong emotions or behavioral challenges, requires a lot of time and attention, seems angry, withdrawn, sensitive, or just doesn’t seem themselves, may leave a parent feeling frustrated, worried and exhausted. You want your child to do well and be happy, but you're unsure what will help. It can be difficult to find the right resources to address: low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, behavioral outbursts, and difficulty maintaining positive relationships. I specialize in working with children ages 3+ to improve functioning and establish healthy family connection.
(201) 590-1069 View (201) 590-1069
Photo of Suzi Millar, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Suzi Millar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
There are times in life when situations, circumstances and emotions feel overwhelming. I understand that making the decision to seek support during these difficult times can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Whether you are seeking help for your child, your family or yourself, I am here to support you and walk you through the process to ease any anxiety it may cause. My approach to therapy is client centered, where we work collaboratively on your goals. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, transition and adjustment, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and family discord.
There are times in life when situations, circumstances and emotions feel overwhelming. I understand that making the decision to seek support during these difficult times can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Whether you are seeking help for your child, your family or yourself, I am here to support you and walk you through the process to ease any anxiety it may cause. My approach to therapy is client centered, where we work collaboratively on your goals. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, transition and adjustment, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and family discord.
(848) 246-2299 View (848) 246-2299
Photo of Gregory Bing, Counselor in Somerset, NJ
Gregory Bing
Counselor, MA, LAC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08875  (Online Only)
I help people manage the anxiety, depression, and uncertainty that go along with our stressful, dynamic lives. In our work together, you will increase your understanding of your feelings and motivations, and develop new ways of expressing and coping with your feelings. You will learn how to lead a happier, more fulfilling life by learning how to better understand your emotions, an how to take more active control over your behavior.
I help people manage the anxiety, depression, and uncertainty that go along with our stressful, dynamic lives. In our work together, you will increase your understanding of your feelings and motivations, and develop new ways of expressing and coping with your feelings. You will learn how to lead a happier, more fulfilling life by learning how to better understand your emotions, an how to take more active control over your behavior.
(732) 647-9733 View (732) 647-9733
Photo of Hongmarie Martinez, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Hongmarie Martinez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
While life can involve various hurdles that may be difficult to overcome, you do not have to confront them on your own. I am a licensed psychologist in New Jersey and New York and a certified school psychologist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to assisting the individuals and families that I work with in identifying their specific hurdles and goals and developing personalized, effective strategies to cope with their challenges, uncovering their unique strengths, and helping them navigate their pathway towards achieving impactful change.
While life can involve various hurdles that may be difficult to overcome, you do not have to confront them on your own. I am a licensed psychologist in New Jersey and New York and a certified school psychologist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to assisting the individuals and families that I work with in identifying their specific hurdles and goals and developing personalized, effective strategies to cope with their challenges, uncovering their unique strengths, and helping them navigate their pathway towards achieving impactful change.
(732) 538-9032 View (732) 538-9032
Photo of Sonya L. Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somerset, NJ
Sonya L. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
After many years of experience servicing youth, families, and individuals of varying ages, socioeconomic, religious, and cultural backgrounds who struggle with mental health & behavioral challenges, I welcome the opportunity to partner with clients in processing and redirecting thoughts feelings and actions that hinder optimal growth and personal autonomy.
After many years of experience servicing youth, families, and individuals of varying ages, socioeconomic, religious, and cultural backgrounds who struggle with mental health & behavioral challenges, I welcome the opportunity to partner with clients in processing and redirecting thoughts feelings and actions that hinder optimal growth and personal autonomy.
(908) 504-7396 View (908) 504-7396
Photo of Dr. Michael Selbst, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Dr. Michael Selbst
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873
I am the Executive Director of Behavior Therapy Associates (BTA), a Licensed Psychologist & Certified School Psychologist in New Jersey & Pennsylvania, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at the Doctoral level. My colleagues and I provide services in NJ & PA, and we can provide telehealth to more than 40 states through PSYPACT.org. I have expertise with pre-school aged children through adults, and I provide individual & family therapy, Behavioral Parent Training, & Social Skills Training. I have co-authored a social skills curriculum & behavior problems resource kit. I also provide Executive Coaching.
I am the Executive Director of Behavior Therapy Associates (BTA), a Licensed Psychologist & Certified School Psychologist in New Jersey & Pennsylvania, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at the Doctoral level. My colleagues and I provide services in NJ & PA, and we can provide telehealth to more than 40 states through PSYPACT.org. I have expertise with pre-school aged children through adults, and I provide individual & family therapy, Behavioral Parent Training, & Social Skills Training. I have co-authored a social skills curriculum & behavior problems resource kit. I also provide Executive Coaching.
(732) 800-4023 View (732) 800-4023
Photo of Qualiyah Arrington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerset, NJ
Qualiyah Arrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you found yourself silenced by the overwhelming stress of life? Do you experience the frustration of not being truly heard by those closest to you? Have you been grappling with the rollercoaster of emotions without clearly understanding why? If you've reached a point where you yearn to regain control over your emotions and seek inner peace and self-love, you're not alone. I'm here to support and guide you on a journey of self-discovery and healing.
Have you found yourself silenced by the overwhelming stress of life? Do you experience the frustration of not being truly heard by those closest to you? Have you been grappling with the rollercoaster of emotions without clearly understanding why? If you've reached a point where you yearn to regain control over your emotions and seek inner peace and self-love, you're not alone. I'm here to support and guide you on a journey of self-discovery and healing.
(732) 592-3922 View (732) 592-3922
Photo of Soumya Madabhushi, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Soumya Madabhushi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
The world can be a beautiful and wondrous place that offers adventure and exciting challenges, but is also often difficult and filled with losses, struggles, and traumas. I believe that each of us has the capacity to heal, grow, and thrive. You may be feeling turned around and stuck, perhaps as a result of chronic stress, difficult relationships, loss, oppression, and traumatic events. OR you may be doing well and looking to deepen your connections to self and others. Wherever you are in your journey, I am dedicated to providing you with a safe space, keen clinical judgment, and compassionate honesty to help you achieve your goals.
The world can be a beautiful and wondrous place that offers adventure and exciting challenges, but is also often difficult and filled with losses, struggles, and traumas. I believe that each of us has the capacity to heal, grow, and thrive. You may be feeling turned around and stuck, perhaps as a result of chronic stress, difficult relationships, loss, oppression, and traumatic events. OR you may be doing well and looking to deepen your connections to self and others. Wherever you are in your journey, I am dedicated to providing you with a safe space, keen clinical judgment, and compassionate honesty to help you achieve your goals.
(848) 244-8068 View (848) 244-8068
Photo of Linda Tamm, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Linda Tamm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I take the mystery out of therapy by working collaboratively with you. My role then tends to be like a coach or instructor. We set goals together. I do not make decisions for my clients. Rather we look for patterns in thinking, actions, and relationships that cause problems. We examine the positive and negative outcomes that cause people to get stuck in negative emotions. While we look to the past to learn how patterns are shaped, this treatment is present and future focused. It is more important to build on your strengths than to dwell on weaknesses.
I take the mystery out of therapy by working collaboratively with you. My role then tends to be like a coach or instructor. We set goals together. I do not make decisions for my clients. Rather we look for patterns in thinking, actions, and relationships that cause problems. We examine the positive and negative outcomes that cause people to get stuck in negative emotions. While we look to the past to learn how patterns are shaped, this treatment is present and future focused. It is more important to build on your strengths than to dwell on weaknesses.
(732) 703-6002 View (732) 703-6002
Photo of Ashley Zultanky, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Ashley Zultanky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescents through adults experiencing challenges related to sport performance, executive dysfunction, anxiety, depression, and difficult life adjustments. I also work with individual and team sports to help athletes find success on and off the field, including improving performance anxiety and reshaping team dynamics. I practice from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) lens with a focus on present moment awareness, acknowledgment of difficult internal experiences, and valued-based living to improve quality of life and performance.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescents through adults experiencing challenges related to sport performance, executive dysfunction, anxiety, depression, and difficult life adjustments. I also work with individual and team sports to help athletes find success on and off the field, including improving performance anxiety and reshaping team dynamics. I practice from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) lens with a focus on present moment awareness, acknowledgment of difficult internal experiences, and valued-based living to improve quality of life and performance.
(848) 266-6245 View (848) 266-6245
Photo of Nina Williams, Psychologist in Somerset, NJ
Nina Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
If you are looking for a new perspective on a problem, a better relationship, or a greater sense of contentment and vitality in your life, I can help. With more than twenty years of practice and thirteen years of advanced training, I offer a seasoned, educated approach to psychotherapy with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual difficulties, physical illness, grief, life transitions, and problems with relationships.
If you are looking for a new perspective on a problem, a better relationship, or a greater sense of contentment and vitality in your life, I can help. With more than twenty years of practice and thirteen years of advanced training, I offer a seasoned, educated approach to psychotherapy with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual difficulties, physical illness, grief, life transitions, and problems with relationships.
(732) 800-4796 View (732) 800-4796
Photo of Christian Wellness Center of NJ, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somerset, NJ
Christian Wellness Center of NJ
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I specialize in working with preteens/teens and young adults ranging from ages 10 to 35. By creating an authentic/non-judgmental safe space, I provide care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/identity, grief/loss, trauma and family conflict. In this ever-changing world, it can feel difficult to navigate through the obstacles that can make daily life feel overwhelming. In individual counseling, we will work on building a strong therapeutic relationship so that you can be challenged to heal, grow, and learn valuable coping skills in a warm and accepting environment.
I specialize in working with preteens/teens and young adults ranging from ages 10 to 35. By creating an authentic/non-judgmental safe space, I provide care for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/identity, grief/loss, trauma and family conflict. In this ever-changing world, it can feel difficult to navigate through the obstacles that can make daily life feel overwhelming. In individual counseling, we will work on building a strong therapeutic relationship so that you can be challenged to heal, grow, and learn valuable coping skills in a warm and accepting environment.
(848) 256-0550 View (848) 256-0550
Photo of Lynne Einhorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerset, NJ
Lynne Einhorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873
Today can be a new beginning. Have you been struggling, but also longing to live an authentic and more fulfilling life? What you have lived has built you in both challenging and beautiful ways. I believe our experiences can be a source of strength, but can also impact a person’s emotional well-being, self-esteem, and relationships. Therapy help you gain clarity on your values and goals, regulate your emotions, and reconnect with your authentic self. As a therapist, it is my honor to work with individuals to create a safe space to explore their concerns, as well as issues that may be holding them back.
Today can be a new beginning. Have you been struggling, but also longing to live an authentic and more fulfilling life? What you have lived has built you in both challenging and beautiful ways. I believe our experiences can be a source of strength, but can also impact a person’s emotional well-being, self-esteem, and relationships. Therapy help you gain clarity on your values and goals, regulate your emotions, and reconnect with your authentic self. As a therapist, it is my honor to work with individuals to create a safe space to explore their concerns, as well as issues that may be holding them back.
(732) 347-7806 View (732) 347-7806

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Somerset, NJ

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Somerset, NJ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
69% Relationship Issues
65% Coping Skills
65% Self Esteem
63% Trauma and PTSD
54% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Somerset, NJ see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
10% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Somerset?

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.