Therapists in Clinton Township, MI

Photo of Taylour H Gillett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Taylour H Gillett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48035  (Online Only)
At some point, we all experience difficulties in our lives and reaching out for help isn't always easy. Especially when it comes to topics and experiences that feel isolating, scary, and overwhelming. I specialize in working with those experiencing fertility challenges, anxiety, and perinatal mental health issues (including pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and postpartum). Your therapy experience is about you and your needs. I work with my clients to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment to openly discuss whatever issues they may be experiencing and we work to provide relief and healing where needed.
At some point, we all experience difficulties in our lives and reaching out for help isn't always easy. Especially when it comes to topics and experiences that feel isolating, scary, and overwhelming. I specialize in working with those experiencing fertility challenges, anxiety, and perinatal mental health issues (including pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and postpartum). Your therapy experience is about you and your needs. I work with my clients to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment to openly discuss whatever issues they may be experiencing and we work to provide relief and healing where needed.
(586) 250-4203 View (586) 250-4203
Martin Wunsch
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038
I am available to see children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couple and family meetings. I have seen children as young as age 2 1/2 and senior adults as old as 93. I see children directly, provide parents consultation re their children's needs and parental communication and approaches to use, as well as work with other medical and educational professionals. I can provide much background re the appropriate use of psychiatric medication (though I am not an MD/DO and cannot prescribe) as well as psychoanalytic understanding and cognitive-behavioral skills to address personal and interpersonal concerns.
I am available to see children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couple and family meetings. I have seen children as young as age 2 1/2 and senior adults as old as 93. I see children directly, provide parents consultation re their children's needs and parental communication and approaches to use, as well as work with other medical and educational professionals. I can provide much background re the appropriate use of psychiatric medication (though I am not an MD/DO and cannot prescribe) as well as psychoanalytic understanding and cognitive-behavioral skills to address personal and interpersonal concerns.
(586) 690-4779 View (586) 690-4779
Photo of Kimberly Marie Bernock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Kimberly Marie Bernock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038  (Online Only)
I understand life can go in many directions, and sometimes we need help getting back on track. My passion is helping people with anxiety and trauma related disorders; however, regardless of what you’re going through, I offer a supportive nonjudgmental environment to help you self-reflect and promote change. I’m very flexible with my approaches to help my clients meet their specific needs and goals, whether that’s offering a safe environment to hear your story or using direct evidence-based practices.
I understand life can go in many directions, and sometimes we need help getting back on track. My passion is helping people with anxiety and trauma related disorders; however, regardless of what you’re going through, I offer a supportive nonjudgmental environment to help you self-reflect and promote change. I’m very flexible with my approaches to help my clients meet their specific needs and goals, whether that’s offering a safe environment to hear your story or using direct evidence-based practices.
(586) 571-9116 View (586) 571-9116
Photo of Dr. Linda Ann Schoonover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Dr. Linda Ann Schoonover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48035
I have a passion for helping blending health, wellness, social work, sexuality, spirituality and psychology to foster hope and faith. I provide assistance needed in navigating through life effectively including help dealing with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, life transitions, weight loss, emotional issues, and spiritual or personal growth. Through the counseling process, the focus is to learn effective choices that help achieve your desired goals. I believe wholeheartedly that God has complete mental & emotional wholeness available to every person & would love to be part of your journey in finding that wholeness.
I have a passion for helping blending health, wellness, social work, sexuality, spirituality and psychology to foster hope and faith. I provide assistance needed in navigating through life effectively including help dealing with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, life transitions, weight loss, emotional issues, and spiritual or personal growth. Through the counseling process, the focus is to learn effective choices that help achieve your desired goals. I believe wholeheartedly that God has complete mental & emotional wholeness available to every person & would love to be part of your journey in finding that wholeness.
(586) 271-0864 View (586) 271-0864
Photo of Samantha Shankin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Samantha Shankin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48036
Samantha received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Wayne State University and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Oakland University. Samantha has extensive experience working with children and adolescence, specifically those who have special needs, mental illness, and at-risk behavior. Samantha specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, self-esteem, school difficulties, FASD, divorce, social anxiety, and communication skills. Samantha also has experience working with parents of children with these difficulties, couples, and individual adults that struggle with the same issues.
Samantha received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Wayne State University and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Oakland University. Samantha has extensive experience working with children and adolescence, specifically those who have special needs, mental illness, and at-risk behavior. Samantha specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, self-esteem, school difficulties, FASD, divorce, social anxiety, and communication skills. Samantha also has experience working with parents of children with these difficulties, couples, and individual adults that struggle with the same issues.
(248) 206-3083 View (248) 206-3083
Photo of Heather (Ashley) Haraga, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Heather (Ashley) Haraga
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038  (Online Only)
There are times in our lives when finding a peaceful solution to our current struggles can feel overwhelming. Anxiety, depression, grief, family or parenting struggles can disrupt our lives and leave us feeling lost. I am here to provide a safe, confidential place to help children, teens, and adults with their concerns. Together, we can find the peaceful solution you are seeking.
There are times in our lives when finding a peaceful solution to our current struggles can feel overwhelming. Anxiety, depression, grief, family or parenting struggles can disrupt our lives and leave us feeling lost. I am here to provide a safe, confidential place to help children, teens, and adults with their concerns. Together, we can find the peaceful solution you are seeking.
(586) 623-4767 View (586) 623-4767
Photo of Karen Gibson, Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Karen Gibson
Counselor, MA, LPC, LBSW
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48035  (Online Only)
Providing secure, video-based, online therapy services in Michigan. Your friends, family & coworkers are impressed with your great life. You present as confident in all areas of your life. You’re self-motivated, dependable & the most trusted. But on the inside, your judgmental towards yourself. You've spent most of your life trying to maintain your "great life" as others would perceive, but you have become exhausted & are struggling to face challenges in your career and personal life. It's time to replenish your spiritual, mental, emotional, & physical self. Its time to live your best life starting today!
Providing secure, video-based, online therapy services in Michigan. Your friends, family & coworkers are impressed with your great life. You present as confident in all areas of your life. You’re self-motivated, dependable & the most trusted. But on the inside, your judgmental towards yourself. You've spent most of your life trying to maintain your "great life" as others would perceive, but you have become exhausted & are struggling to face challenges in your career and personal life. It's time to replenish your spiritual, mental, emotional, & physical self. Its time to live your best life starting today!
(586) 554-2027 View (586) 554-2027
Photo of Eric Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Eric Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Hello! My name is Eric, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I hold a master's degree from Wayne State University. I’m licensed in Michigan with eight years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related issues. I also have experience working with depression.
Hello! My name is Eric, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I hold a master's degree from Wayne State University. I’m licensed in Michigan with eight years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related issues. I also have experience working with depression.
(586) 789-9687 View (586) 789-9687
Photo of Kyle Vens, Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Kyle Vens
Counselor, MA, LLC, ORDM
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48035
Not accepting new clients
Going to counseling can be hard. It's scary to talk about things that are causing distress and making life difficult. As a limited licensed counselor (LLC) and ordained pastor (ORDM) it is my great honor to enter into that journey with you. I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds and presenting concerns. I have experience working with adolescents and adults alike focusing on anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief, and life change. I desire to walk alongside you as you experience healing throughout the ups and downs of life.
Going to counseling can be hard. It's scary to talk about things that are causing distress and making life difficult. As a limited licensed counselor (LLC) and ordained pastor (ORDM) it is my great honor to enter into that journey with you. I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds and presenting concerns. I have experience working with adolescents and adults alike focusing on anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief, and life change. I desire to walk alongside you as you experience healing throughout the ups and downs of life.
(586) 571-7277 View (586) 571-7277
Photo of Audrey Gray, Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Audrey Gray
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Humans were never meant to face life’s challenges alone, and thankfully you don’t have to. As your therapist, it is always my top priority to provide a safe, supportive environment where you feel free to be your most authentic self. My hope is that we can explore not just what brings you to therapy, but the deeper aspects of what fundamentally makes you the person you are today.
Humans were never meant to face life’s challenges alone, and thankfully you don’t have to. As your therapist, it is always my top priority to provide a safe, supportive environment where you feel free to be your most authentic self. My hope is that we can explore not just what brings you to therapy, but the deeper aspects of what fundamentally makes you the person you are today.
(586) 519-6693 View (586) 519-6693
Photo of Rebecca L Verkest, Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Rebecca L Verkest
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCE
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Everyone can benefit from a non-biased professional to help them sort out any internal conflict or struggle they are experiencing that causes distress. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma and/or a life changing event, you no longer need to do this alone. I have over 23 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in crisis, offering high quality counseling to individuals seeking the life they deserve.
Everyone can benefit from a non-biased professional to help them sort out any internal conflict or struggle they are experiencing that causes distress. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma and/or a life changing event, you no longer need to do this alone. I have over 23 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in crisis, offering high quality counseling to individuals seeking the life they deserve.
(586) 745-3718 View (586) 745-3718
Photo of Julie Ann Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Julie Ann Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48035  (Online Only)
I look forward to helping my clients work through any issues that may be standing in the way of their pursuit of healthy living. In my own journey, I've found that launching myself into my wildest dreams of travel, adventure and sports is where I found my greatest growth in self-love, and an expansion of mindset.
I look forward to helping my clients work through any issues that may be standing in the way of their pursuit of healthy living. In my own journey, I've found that launching myself into my wildest dreams of travel, adventure and sports is where I found my greatest growth in self-love, and an expansion of mindset.
(586) 600-8649 View (586) 600-8649
Photo of Dana Zelenak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Dana Zelenak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Feeling sad, fearful, unhappy, or just not ok, are common; know you are not alone with struggles of mental health. Right now things may feel overwhelming leading to increase in anxiety, depression, and stress; taking away from the enjoyment of you life. My goal in therapy is to help with that. I want to help my clients reach personal fulfillment and to achieve a life worth living because you are deserving of that.
Feeling sad, fearful, unhappy, or just not ok, are common; know you are not alone with struggles of mental health. Right now things may feel overwhelming leading to increase in anxiety, depression, and stress; taking away from the enjoyment of you life. My goal in therapy is to help with that. I want to help my clients reach personal fulfillment and to achieve a life worth living because you are deserving of that.
(586) 619-8098 View (586) 619-8098
Photo of Colleen Zito, Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Colleen Zito
Counselor, MA, LLC, SCL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48035
Therapy can be a healing journey that leads to self-discovery. I am humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside you. My approach is rooted in empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard. You are the expert in your own life; however, it takes a village to overcome life’s challenges. I will help educate you about your treatment and give you the tools to impact your daily life. I aim to be a pillar of support to help you meet your goals and lead a happier, more fulfilling life.
Therapy can be a healing journey that leads to self-discovery. I am humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside you. My approach is rooted in empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard. You are the expert in your own life; however, it takes a village to overcome life’s challenges. I will help educate you about your treatment and give you the tools to impact your daily life. I aim to be a pillar of support to help you meet your goals and lead a happier, more fulfilling life.
(586) 371-6507 View (586) 371-6507
Photo of Laurel Tree Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Laurel Tree Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAM
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038  (Online Only)
Are you in need of a life change? From managing stress and anxiety to taking control of your finances, organizing your home, getting quality sleep, healthy weight management, eating well, managing chronic health concerns, or just engaging in an overall wellness plan – taking care of yourself can feel like another full-time job. It can be overwhelming to do it alone, leading most people to abandon their aspirations and feel stuck in place. If you are ready to move forward, you're invited to work with the therapists at Laurel Tree Counseling as we work to re-ignite your motivation and commitment to change.
Are you in need of a life change? From managing stress and anxiety to taking control of your finances, organizing your home, getting quality sleep, healthy weight management, eating well, managing chronic health concerns, or just engaging in an overall wellness plan – taking care of yourself can feel like another full-time job. It can be overwhelming to do it alone, leading most people to abandon their aspirations and feel stuck in place. If you are ready to move forward, you're invited to work with the therapists at Laurel Tree Counseling as we work to re-ignite your motivation and commitment to change.
(586) 788-1302 View (586) 788-1302
Photo of Linda Mosed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Linda Mosed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038
"You can't live a positive life with a negative mind" Unpredictable & sometimes unkind forces of life keep people emotionally & psychologically paralyzed.  My goal is to guide you with creating the change that allows YOU to be the best version of YOU.  You're a BADASS (yes YOU are; time to start believeing that). We are all unique therefore I strive to identify and support the uniqueness, strength and positiveness that I encounter in each of my clients. My passion is to inspire, motivate, strengthen & heal ultimately empowering clients to become their true self.
"You can't live a positive life with a negative mind" Unpredictable & sometimes unkind forces of life keep people emotionally & psychologically paralyzed.  My goal is to guide you with creating the change that allows YOU to be the best version of YOU.  You're a BADASS (yes YOU are; time to start believeing that). We are all unique therefore I strive to identify and support the uniqueness, strength and positiveness that I encounter in each of my clients. My passion is to inspire, motivate, strengthen & heal ultimately empowering clients to become their true self.
(586) 257-2804 View (586) 257-2804
Photo of Cadence Counseling - "Find Your Voice", Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Cadence Counseling - "Find Your Voice"
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48036
Waitlist for new clients
I am a LLPC, 24 + yr Police Veteran, military veteran, and served 9+ years as a pastor. Are you a first responder, military, front-line worker, clergy, counselor, or a person who feels they have to help others and yet struggle to help yourself? Some people aren’t good at asking for help, they are used to being “the helper.” Subsequently, you have experienced an unbalanced give and take. Truth - your instinct is usually “ I’ll figure it out on my own.” As you might know this self-reliance is all you have ever known. However, you are facing anxiety, depression, grief, and possibly other feelings that consume your current situation.
I am a LLPC, 24 + yr Police Veteran, military veteran, and served 9+ years as a pastor. Are you a first responder, military, front-line worker, clergy, counselor, or a person who feels they have to help others and yet struggle to help yourself? Some people aren’t good at asking for help, they are used to being “the helper.” Subsequently, you have experienced an unbalanced give and take. Truth - your instinct is usually “ I’ll figure it out on my own.” As you might know this self-reliance is all you have ever known. However, you are facing anxiety, depression, grief, and possibly other feelings that consume your current situation.
(586) 210-8564 View (586) 210-8564
Photo of Development Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clinton Township, MI
Development Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Not accepting new clients
You might be suffering from depression, anxiety, grief or anger, which has negatively affected your ability to sleep, concentrate, enjoy activities with family and friends. I know that it is difficult to share these feelings. I have a passion for helping others and it is my goal to help you identify the causes of your distress and to provide a safe, non-judgemental, supportive environment and work collaboratively with you and/or family to work towards a positive outcome by equipping you with more effective communication, coping and decision-making skills.
You might be suffering from depression, anxiety, grief or anger, which has negatively affected your ability to sleep, concentrate, enjoy activities with family and friends. I know that it is difficult to share these feelings. I have a passion for helping others and it is my goal to help you identify the causes of your distress and to provide a safe, non-judgemental, supportive environment and work collaboratively with you and/or family to work towards a positive outcome by equipping you with more effective communication, coping and decision-making skills.
(586) 685-7547 View (586) 685-7547
Photo of Open Door Counseling Center, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Open Door Counseling Center, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48038
Our clients are the reason we are in business and their care starts with the first phone call. When you call you will be greeted by either Dina or Sue, they will complete a small intake process and from there you will have some paperwork to complete. Our scheduling turnaround time after paperwork is completed is about 5 days. We care that you are receiving the care you need when you need it.
Our clients are the reason we are in business and their care starts with the first phone call. When you call you will be greeted by either Dina or Sue, they will complete a small intake process and from there you will have some paperwork to complete. Our scheduling turnaround time after paperwork is completed is about 5 days. We care that you are receiving the care you need when you need it.
(586) 400-2162 View (586) 400-2162
Photo of Tyler Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clinton Township, MI
Tyler Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48035
Opening up and allowing yourself to be completely vulnerable is an emotional task, let alone with a stranger. Let's tackle those life stressors, together! I will work with you to help alleviate the pain that comes from enduring difficult situations. If your struggles are getting the best of you and you are unsure of how to proceed, I will meet you where you are, mentally, and we can work together to create and achieve goals that are best suited for you.
Opening up and allowing yourself to be completely vulnerable is an emotional task, let alone with a stranger. Let's tackle those life stressors, together! I will work with you to help alleviate the pain that comes from enduring difficult situations. If your struggles are getting the best of you and you are unsure of how to proceed, I will meet you where you are, mentally, and we can work together to create and achieve goals that are best suited for you.
(586) 701-7920 View (586) 701-7920

See more therapy options for Clinton Township

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Clinton Township, MI

200+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Clinton Township, MI who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
78% Coping Skills
75% Grief
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
74% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Clinton Township, MI see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Clinton Township?

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.