Therapists in Champaign, IL

Photo of Ranya Hasan, Counselor in Champaign, IL
Ranya Hasan
Counselor, ICAADC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
You are your greatest investment. Ranya journeys with you to help you fulfill your goals, address stressors in your life, and create a personalized culturally competent, holistic plan that works for you. Ranya is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, and Nationally Board-Certified with a clinical credential in Child and Family Therapy. She provides clinical therapy services to children, adolescents, adults, family, and couples.
You are your greatest investment. Ranya journeys with you to help you fulfill your goals, address stressors in your life, and create a personalized culturally competent, holistic plan that works for you. Ranya is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, and Nationally Board-Certified with a clinical credential in Child and Family Therapy. She provides clinical therapy services to children, adolescents, adults, family, and couples.
(217) 727-8224 View (217) 727-8224
Photo of Sheerine Bazargani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Sheerine Bazargani
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a Masters Degree from the University of Illinois Springfield. I started my field work as an addiction counselor in outpatient and residential settings. I have great knowledge and expertise working with addictions and recovery, but also specialize in treating ADHD, especially in adults. Other areas of experience include anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, couples therapy, and family therapy. I am a certified Yoga Instructor, and often use yoga as a therapeutic modality in my sessions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a Masters Degree from the University of Illinois Springfield. I started my field work as an addiction counselor in outpatient and residential settings. I have great knowledge and expertise working with addictions and recovery, but also specialize in treating ADHD, especially in adults. Other areas of experience include anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, couples therapy, and family therapy. I am a certified Yoga Instructor, and often use yoga as a therapeutic modality in my sessions.
(855) 618-5618 View (855) 618-5618
Photo of Erika La Frano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Erika La Frano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is culturally responsive, collaborative, and evidence based. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression, burn out, relational stress, and difficulty coping with change, you are not alone. Together, we will work to set measurable and realistic goals that align with your values and cultural beliefs. I am licensed in California and Illinois.
My approach to psychotherapy is culturally responsive, collaborative, and evidence based. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression, burn out, relational stress, and difficulty coping with change, you are not alone. Together, we will work to set measurable and realistic goals that align with your values and cultural beliefs. I am licensed in California and Illinois.
(805) 273-8779 View (805) 273-8779
Photo of Shelby Brewer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Shelby Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I enjoy working with all ages-- children and adults. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, Bipolar, trauma, and many other issues. I believe that even the good things can be hard sometimes and that everyone could use somewhere to unpack and process through life’s challenges and changes. I thoroughly enjoy being a part of the journey someone finds themselves on when they commit to walking through the door for their first therapy session. I am committed to creating a judgement free, comfortable, and safe environment for people in all seasons of life to process their struggles and celebrate their strengths.
I enjoy working with all ages-- children and adults. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, Bipolar, trauma, and many other issues. I believe that even the good things can be hard sometimes and that everyone could use somewhere to unpack and process through life’s challenges and changes. I thoroughly enjoy being a part of the journey someone finds themselves on when they commit to walking through the door for their first therapy session. I am committed to creating a judgement free, comfortable, and safe environment for people in all seasons of life to process their struggles and celebrate their strengths.
(217) 292-7081 View (217) 292-7081
Colleen Marie Pritchard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
I operate from a strength-based perspective. I believe that people have innate strengths and skills that can be accessed and applied in times of challenges and transitions. It is my belief that the process of therapy/counseling involves the discovery or rediscovery of one's core sense of self in the world. I do not ascribe to the cookie cutter method of treatment. In other words, the methods and interventions are tailored to fit the individual rather than the other way around. Therapy is seen as a collaborative process
I operate from a strength-based perspective. I believe that people have innate strengths and skills that can be accessed and applied in times of challenges and transitions. It is my belief that the process of therapy/counseling involves the discovery or rediscovery of one's core sense of self in the world. I do not ascribe to the cookie cutter method of treatment. In other words, the methods and interventions are tailored to fit the individual rather than the other way around. Therapy is seen as a collaborative process
(217) 697-2183 View (217) 697-2183
Photo of Maritza Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Maritza Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
When it comes to Maritza’s therapeutic style, she has been described as patient, understanding, and accepting yet also persistent and straightforward. Most of Maritza's clinical work has been centered around gender challenges, gender transitioning, sexuality, sexual orientation, sexual development, sexual assault, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma. Additionally, she specializes in oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, behavioral disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
When it comes to Maritza’s therapeutic style, she has been described as patient, understanding, and accepting yet also persistent and straightforward. Most of Maritza's clinical work has been centered around gender challenges, gender transitioning, sexuality, sexual orientation, sexual development, sexual assault, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma. Additionally, she specializes in oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, behavioral disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(217) 993-8641 View (217) 993-8641
Photo of Emily M Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Emily M Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.
I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.
(217) 908-8905 View (217) 908-8905
Photo of Henry Woolsey, Counselor in Champaign, IL
Henry Woolsey
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Change is a major source of stress and life is full of change. I believe one of the most helpful applications of therapy is to help clients deal with the changes they experience and incorporate them into their lives-children growing up and leaving home (the client might be the parent or the child), relationship changes, job-related change, dealing with death, or any other changes that challenge you. I offer a safe place to express your feelings about the changes in your life and strive to be a non-judgmental companion through that process.
Change is a major source of stress and life is full of change. I believe one of the most helpful applications of therapy is to help clients deal with the changes they experience and incorporate them into their lives-children growing up and leaving home (the client might be the parent or the child), relationship changes, job-related change, dealing with death, or any other changes that challenge you. I offer a safe place to express your feelings about the changes in your life and strive to be a non-judgmental companion through that process.
(217) 703-0391 View (217) 703-0391
Photo of Caitie Christian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Caitie Christian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the state of Illinois and Missouri. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience in helping clients with managing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression; improving motivation, self-esteem, and self-confidence; exploring sexual orientation and gender identity & coping with life changes. I am also comfortable assisting individuals facing challenges presented by adjustment issues, depression, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma (PTSD), body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria, and other long-standing mental health concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the state of Illinois and Missouri. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience in helping clients with managing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression; improving motivation, self-esteem, and self-confidence; exploring sexual orientation and gender identity & coping with life changes. I am also comfortable assisting individuals facing challenges presented by adjustment issues, depression, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma (PTSD), body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria, and other long-standing mental health concerns.
(217) 288-4311 View (217) 288-4311
Photo of Dylan J Mahaffey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Dylan J Mahaffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you feeling lonely, out of touch, or struggling? We all need support at some point during our lives. I specialize in working with clients with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting, substance abuse, and overwhelming stress. It takes courage to take the first step. You are worth it. I take an eclectic approach to counseling. I like to use your strengths to empower future growth and happiness. I have experience in working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am becoming certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you feeling lonely, out of touch, or struggling? We all need support at some point during our lives. I specialize in working with clients with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting, substance abuse, and overwhelming stress. It takes courage to take the first step. You are worth it. I take an eclectic approach to counseling. I like to use your strengths to empower future growth and happiness. I have experience in working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am becoming certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
(217) 212-2164 View (217) 212-2164
Photo of Elise Belknap, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Elise Belknap
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Waitlist for new clients
My work with individuals is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and skill building. I support clients in connecting with themselves while helping them understand how their history impacts their current relationships and their sense of self. I have many years of experience working with children and their caregivers. Our work together will involve play, attunement, and parent coaching. As a part of the therapeutic process, I collaborate with each child’s team to create a cohesive plan for children and their families.
My work with individuals is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and skill building. I support clients in connecting with themselves while helping them understand how their history impacts their current relationships and their sense of self. I have many years of experience working with children and their caregivers. Our work together will involve play, attunement, and parent coaching. As a part of the therapeutic process, I collaborate with each child’s team to create a cohesive plan for children and their families.
(217) 863-1496 View (217) 863-1496
Photo of Heidi McGill, Counselor in Champaign, IL
Heidi McGill
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
With over 25 years of experience as a LCPC, my commitment to walking alongside people through their healing process with the utmost care and respect has only deepened. Primarily working with adults who are healing from trauma, I understand the overwhelm and exhaustion that often comes with being stuck in the unsupportive, negative response loop of trauma. I leverage a number of highly effective therapeutic modalities to help people live in the now instead of the past.
With over 25 years of experience as a LCPC, my commitment to walking alongside people through their healing process with the utmost care and respect has only deepened. Primarily working with adults who are healing from trauma, I understand the overwhelm and exhaustion that often comes with being stuck in the unsupportive, negative response loop of trauma. I leverage a number of highly effective therapeutic modalities to help people live in the now instead of the past.
(217) 645-6898 View (217) 645-6898
Photo of Kim Greenlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Kim Greenlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Life is full of transitions and they can be extremely difficult. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed, discouraged and like nothing will ever get better. Even when the transition is your choice - like a new job, going back to school or having a baby, it can feel like you will never settle into a new normal. That can be even more challenging when the transition is not your choice - like divorce, chronic illness, struggling with infertility, or trauma and loss. Transition can be even more overwhelming when it feels like you are going through it alone and don't have any support.
Life is full of transitions and they can be extremely difficult. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed, discouraged and like nothing will ever get better. Even when the transition is your choice - like a new job, going back to school or having a baby, it can feel like you will never settle into a new normal. That can be even more challenging when the transition is not your choice - like divorce, chronic illness, struggling with infertility, or trauma and loss. Transition can be even more overwhelming when it feels like you are going through it alone and don't have any support.
(217) 203-8389 View (217) 203-8389
Photo of Kathleen El Koury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Kathleen El Koury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61822
I have worked with a wide range of clientele, helping them to overcome obstacles in their lives and learn the necessary skills to improve their daily functioning. I provide therapy to individuals facing a variety of issues and work with diverse populations across the entire age range.
I have worked with a wide range of clientele, helping them to overcome obstacles in their lives and learn the necessary skills to improve their daily functioning. I provide therapy to individuals facing a variety of issues and work with diverse populations across the entire age range.
(217) 253-8520 View (217) 253-8520
Photo of Lynn Griffith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Lynn Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
During my many years working in the mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of individuals, couples, and families facing struggles related to depression, anxiety, addiction, and behavioral issues. I have also had the opportunity to help those adjusting to a new diagnosis. I have enjoyed the opportunity to work in collaboration with them to find their purpose. I am taking new patients and would welcome the opportunity walk with you on this journey. My office provides a confidential, quiet, professional atmosphere for you. As well as flexible hours.
During my many years working in the mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of individuals, couples, and families facing struggles related to depression, anxiety, addiction, and behavioral issues. I have also had the opportunity to help those adjusting to a new diagnosis. I have enjoyed the opportunity to work in collaboration with them to find their purpose. I am taking new patients and would welcome the opportunity walk with you on this journey. My office provides a confidential, quiet, professional atmosphere for you. As well as flexible hours.
(217) 703-1598 View (217) 703-1598
Photo of Daniel 'dc' Crowley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Daniel 'dc' Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life.
(833) 954-2018 View (833) 954-2018
Photo of Christine Mayer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Christine Mayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I firmly believe that therapy services should be available and affordable to all who need them. I use individual, couples, family, and group therapy. I am also the Clinical Supervisor at Compass. As a graduate of the University of Illinois with 25 years of experience as a therapist, I am currently serving as a clinician working with a broad spectrum of clients with a non-judgmental and sex-positive attitude. Among my areas of expertise are LGBTQIA+ clientele (specifically with transfolks), abuse and trauma, depression and anxiety, and anger management. I have also worked with polyamorous folk.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I firmly believe that therapy services should be available and affordable to all who need them. I use individual, couples, family, and group therapy. I am also the Clinical Supervisor at Compass. As a graduate of the University of Illinois with 25 years of experience as a therapist, I am currently serving as a clinician working with a broad spectrum of clients with a non-judgmental and sex-positive attitude. Among my areas of expertise are LGBTQIA+ clientele (specifically with transfolks), abuse and trauma, depression and anxiety, and anger management. I have also worked with polyamorous folk.
(217) 693-4918 View (217) 693-4918
Photo of Jessica Giroux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Jessica Giroux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Jessica Runde, Licenced Professional Counselor, received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. She has foundational studies in neuroscience, which she feels gives her knowledge of psychology a scientific base about how the mind and the physical brain work together in regards to trauma, stress, and other mental health challenges. She often incorporates this into her sessions with clients in an easy-to-understand manner to understand more about the unique challenges they are facing.
Jessica Runde, Licenced Professional Counselor, received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. She has foundational studies in neuroscience, which she feels gives her knowledge of psychology a scientific base about how the mind and the physical brain work together in regards to trauma, stress, and other mental health challenges. She often incorporates this into her sessions with clients in an easy-to-understand manner to understand more about the unique challenges they are facing.
(833) 527-1041 View (833) 527-1041
Photo of Abby Schuldt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Abby Schuldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgemental space for individuals and couples to process, learn and grow. In addition to encouraging my clients to set the pace of how they would like things to go, I also help them to challenge and reframe certain thought patterns that are causing suffering. Together, we find pathways of possibility and celebrate positive life changes.
I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgemental space for individuals and couples to process, learn and grow. In addition to encouraging my clients to set the pace of how they would like things to go, I also help them to challenge and reframe certain thought patterns that are causing suffering. Together, we find pathways of possibility and celebrate positive life changes.
(217) 269-5533 View (217) 269-5533
Photo of Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling, Counselor in Champaign, IL
Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
(217) 993-8655 View (217) 993-8655

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Champaign, IL

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Champaign, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
75% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
72% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Aetna
70% Health Alliance

How Therapists in Champaign, IL see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Champaign?

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.