Therapists in Batavia, IL

Photo of Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Hello! I’m Dennise and I LOVE therapy newbies. It’s because working with women reaching out for help for the first time is my absolute specialty. I know exactly how this woman is feeling (very vulnerable, very nervous, and very scared) and how brave she doesn’t know she is just yet. Brave and strong, for sticking out her feelings and then deciding to create lasting change in her life. But, whether it’s your first session or your fifteenth, I can help you unpack the hurt or hard feelings you’ve been holding onto for probably way to long, find confidence to speak your mind in all of your relationships, and cope with the thoughts that
Hello! I’m Dennise and I LOVE therapy newbies. It’s because working with women reaching out for help for the first time is my absolute specialty. I know exactly how this woman is feeling (very vulnerable, very nervous, and very scared) and how brave she doesn’t know she is just yet. Brave and strong, for sticking out her feelings and then deciding to create lasting change in her life. But, whether it’s your first session or your fifteenth, I can help you unpack the hurt or hard feelings you’ve been holding onto for probably way to long, find confidence to speak your mind in all of your relationships, and cope with the thoughts that
(630) 761-5985 View (630) 761-5985
Photo of Camille Hoffman, Licensed Social Worker in Batavia, IL
Camille Hoffman
Licensed Social Worker, BAEEd, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Not accepting new clients
Are you or a loved one experiencing struggles that could benefit from a new approach? Many people experience symptoms from anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, stress, behavioral or academic concerns, life transitions or relationship issues that contribute to a life out of balance. Seeking support with these issues can help you regain equilibrium and achieve your goals. I start by establishing a connection with each client based on empathy and understanding each person’s perspective. I utilize an evidenced-based treatment approach and the bio-psycho-social approach tailored to the client’s unique needs.
Are you or a loved one experiencing struggles that could benefit from a new approach? Many people experience symptoms from anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, stress, behavioral or academic concerns, life transitions or relationship issues that contribute to a life out of balance. Seeking support with these issues can help you regain equilibrium and achieve your goals. I start by establishing a connection with each client based on empathy and understanding each person’s perspective. I utilize an evidenced-based treatment approach and the bio-psycho-social approach tailored to the client’s unique needs.
(331) 244-2087 View (331) 244-2087
Photo of Mary Madsen-Heskin, Counselor in Batavia, IL
Mary Madsen-Heskin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you ready for change in your life? But something is keeping you from reaching your greatest potential? Are you feeling anxious or confused about how to get started on your new path? Whether you are looking to heal and move forward or simply to feel and function better in your life; know that counseling helps! Let go of old habits or relationships that are no longer working for you. Start feeling more balanced and more trusting of yourself and your decisions. Live life fully and with purpose. Get ready to create the life you deserve!
Are you ready for change in your life? But something is keeping you from reaching your greatest potential? Are you feeling anxious or confused about how to get started on your new path? Whether you are looking to heal and move forward or simply to feel and function better in your life; know that counseling helps! Let go of old habits or relationships that are no longer working for you. Start feeling more balanced and more trusting of yourself and your decisions. Live life fully and with purpose. Get ready to create the life you deserve!
(630) 701-7506 View (630) 701-7506
Photo of Christine S Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Batavia, IL
Christine S Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Do you feel stuck, alone, confused and/or at a loss? You do not have to walk alone. Life presents various seasons of joys, struggles, grief, and other emotional challenges. I am committed and passionate about serving you regardless of your background so that you can experience greater insight, healing, hope, significance, and health in your life's journey. I seek to provide a safe, empathic, collaborative, and challenging space to explore all the issues, patterns, values, goals, and evidence-based solutions through various integrated modalities. I look forward to serving you so you can grow and flourish each day!
Do you feel stuck, alone, confused and/or at a loss? You do not have to walk alone. Life presents various seasons of joys, struggles, grief, and other emotional challenges. I am committed and passionate about serving you regardless of your background so that you can experience greater insight, healing, hope, significance, and health in your life's journey. I seek to provide a safe, empathic, collaborative, and challenging space to explore all the issues, patterns, values, goals, and evidence-based solutions through various integrated modalities. I look forward to serving you so you can grow and flourish each day!
(630) 761-5934 View (630) 761-5934
Photo of Caitlin Reisel, Licensed clinical professional counselor in Batavia, IL
Caitlin Reisel
Licensed clinical professional counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you in need of extra support? I'm here to help! I have a passion for working with older children and adolescents struggling with behavioral and emotional concerns. Conditions I commonly address include depression, anxiety, high functioning autism, ADHD, school resistance, and much more. I also have a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy, a common approach to working with children with behavioral concerns on the autism spectrum. In addition to working with children, I enjoy working with adults with conditions such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, PTSD, and more.
Are you in need of extra support? I'm here to help! I have a passion for working with older children and adolescents struggling with behavioral and emotional concerns. Conditions I commonly address include depression, anxiety, high functioning autism, ADHD, school resistance, and much more. I also have a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy, a common approach to working with children with behavioral concerns on the autism spectrum. In addition to working with children, I enjoy working with adults with conditions such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, PTSD, and more.
(630) 413-4053 View (630) 413-4053
Photo of David Bauer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Batavia, IL
David Bauer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
My ideal client isn't looking for a magic cure or to be "fixed", but is invested in their own wellness as the foundation for mental health. They long for a more holistic model that integrates mind and body, and enjoy varied settings for their sessions: in the office, outdoors or the personal training studio. For years I have helped everyone from C - Suite executives to those in recovery from addiction live better, more purpose driven lives, and I can help you reach your potential and live the life you have imagined.
My ideal client isn't looking for a magic cure or to be "fixed", but is invested in their own wellness as the foundation for mental health. They long for a more holistic model that integrates mind and body, and enjoy varied settings for their sessions: in the office, outdoors or the personal training studio. For years I have helped everyone from C - Suite executives to those in recovery from addiction live better, more purpose driven lives, and I can help you reach your potential and live the life you have imagined.
(224) 205-4709 View (224) 205-4709
Photo of Mary Ellen Bratu, Psychologist in Batavia, IL
Mary Ellen Bratu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Some clients come to me determined to understand why they find themselves entering the very relationships or situations they set out to avoid. Others have concerns about marital discontent. Maybe it's a new medical diagnosis, or an old way of coping that no longer works. Perhaps it's struggle rooted in childhood or related to aging. While life can at times involve struggle, even suffering, my work gives me undeniable proof that human nature provides inordinate potential for creative problem-solving. I encourage clients to tap into this capacity and together we create strategies for moving forward, with an eye toward healing.
Some clients come to me determined to understand why they find themselves entering the very relationships or situations they set out to avoid. Others have concerns about marital discontent. Maybe it's a new medical diagnosis, or an old way of coping that no longer works. Perhaps it's struggle rooted in childhood or related to aging. While life can at times involve struggle, even suffering, my work gives me undeniable proof that human nature provides inordinate potential for creative problem-solving. I encourage clients to tap into this capacity and together we create strategies for moving forward, with an eye toward healing.
(630) 672-0405 View (630) 672-0405
Photo of Jim M. Gilligan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Jim M. Gilligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you a law enforcement officer, hospital or healthcare professional or military veteran who has experienced a traumatic event and is having a difficulty time managing your life? Do you find yourself needing to isolate and avoid people, places or situations in order to feel safe? Do have a difficult time getting to sleep and staying asleep? Have you experienced frustration towards others when they tell you that you should "get over it...and move on" by family, friends or coworkers. The need to feel truly heard and understood in a safe environment is vital towards the road to recovery.
Are you a law enforcement officer, hospital or healthcare professional or military veteran who has experienced a traumatic event and is having a difficulty time managing your life? Do you find yourself needing to isolate and avoid people, places or situations in order to feel safe? Do have a difficult time getting to sleep and staying asleep? Have you experienced frustration towards others when they tell you that you should "get over it...and move on" by family, friends or coworkers. The need to feel truly heard and understood in a safe environment is vital towards the road to recovery.
(630) 715-5740 View (630) 715-5740
Photo of Amy Matthews, Counselor in Batavia, IL
Amy Matthews
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Everyone needs help sometimes. Life comes with challenges and finding support is important in order to face them, especially when the challenges feel like more than we can handle on our own. I believe that every person has the strength they need to face these challenges with the right support in place. I am here to offer whatever is needed: a safe place to freely speak your mind without judgment, a chance to be understood, an ally to look at situations and options, a companion to offer new ideas and perspectives.
Everyone needs help sometimes. Life comes with challenges and finding support is important in order to face them, especially when the challenges feel like more than we can handle on our own. I believe that every person has the strength they need to face these challenges with the right support in place. I am here to offer whatever is needed: a safe place to freely speak your mind without judgment, a chance to be understood, an ally to look at situations and options, a companion to offer new ideas and perspectives.
(331) 702-9433 View (331) 702-9433
Photo of John Gilmore Dewinski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Batavia, IL
John Gilmore Dewinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
If you are reading this, then you know better than anyone the struggles that you are facing. Whether you find yourself anxious, depressed, affected by past trauma, or simply finding that you have trouble achieving your current goals, it is important to find support to process these feelings and give yourself the space to make decisions you are happy with. My role is to build a unique connection to each client by empathizing with them and working to understand their current feelings and history. No two clients are the same, and I will select evidence-based treatments based on what the client brings to the session.
If you are reading this, then you know better than anyone the struggles that you are facing. Whether you find yourself anxious, depressed, affected by past trauma, or simply finding that you have trouble achieving your current goals, it is important to find support to process these feelings and give yourself the space to make decisions you are happy with. My role is to build a unique connection to each client by empathizing with them and working to understand their current feelings and history. No two clients are the same, and I will select evidence-based treatments based on what the client brings to the session.
(630) 528-2731 View (630) 528-2731
Photo of Rob Castillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Rob Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC-I, CODP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Not accepting new clients
I have been told I am easy to talk to; but there are times when you need more than talk. I also am able to gently guide my clients through the stages of change at their own pace. I use a variety of treatment approaches when working with my clients. I try help my clients realize they are the experts of themselves, and as such they can empower themselves in finding their inner strength. We go on this journey of self-discovery together.
I have been told I am easy to talk to; but there are times when you need more than talk. I also am able to gently guide my clients through the stages of change at their own pace. I use a variety of treatment approaches when working with my clients. I try help my clients realize they are the experts of themselves, and as such they can empower themselves in finding their inner strength. We go on this journey of self-discovery together.
(630) 426-6344 View (630) 426-6344
Photo of Shannon Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Shannon Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you burdened by guilt, shame, or rejection? Feeling isolated and alone? It's okay. You're not alone in this journey. I understand the exhaustion of trauma. But remember, you're stronger than your struggles. It's time to peel back the layers of past traumas, welcome the peace of authenticity, and nurture your emotional well-being. You're ready for transformation and resilience. You're worthy of wellness. Let's take that first step towards your healing journey, together.
Are you burdened by guilt, shame, or rejection? Feeling isolated and alone? It's okay. You're not alone in this journey. I understand the exhaustion of trauma. But remember, you're stronger than your struggles. It's time to peel back the layers of past traumas, welcome the peace of authenticity, and nurture your emotional well-being. You're ready for transformation and resilience. You're worthy of wellness. Let's take that first step towards your healing journey, together.
(630) 326-6479 View (630) 326-6479
Photo of Ginnie Seaman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Batavia, IL
Ginnie Seaman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, GCE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I have the skills and experience to help you find the best path for your healing and growth. I believe the quality of our partnership is the most important part of therapy. We will complete an evaluation during the first session so I can get a complete picture of your strengths, what is troubling you, & how your history might be impacting you. We will then develop a treatment plan together. I specialize in assisting people to overcome barriers to change & focus on treating depression, addiction & trauma. I offer both in-person & telehealth for day or evening appointments.
I have the skills and experience to help you find the best path for your healing and growth. I believe the quality of our partnership is the most important part of therapy. We will complete an evaluation during the first session so I can get a complete picture of your strengths, what is troubling you, & how your history might be impacting you. We will then develop a treatment plan together. I specialize in assisting people to overcome barriers to change & focus on treating depression, addiction & trauma. I offer both in-person & telehealth for day or evening appointments.
(630) 528-1656 View (630) 528-1656
Photo of Brian W Rooney, Psychologist in Batavia, IL
Brian W Rooney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make their lives feel and work better. Whether it is healing old wounds, learning new ways, or adjusting our roles and communication with others, we have the capacity to be happier and under less strain. While personal struggles are no fun, they are almost always real opportunities for growth. Since we have to do it ourselves, but can't usually do it alone, I relish being a collaborator with someone who is learning to feel better and grow.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make their lives feel and work better. Whether it is healing old wounds, learning new ways, or adjusting our roles and communication with others, we have the capacity to be happier and under less strain. While personal struggles are no fun, they are almost always real opportunities for growth. Since we have to do it ourselves, but can't usually do it alone, I relish being a collaborator with someone who is learning to feel better and grow.
(630) 557-6443 View (630) 557-6443
Photo of Thelma Razo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Thelma Razo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Life can leave us feeling lost, damaged, and disconnected from our selves. You may be fed up with feeling confused in everyday situations or isolated from friends who can’t understand. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your insecurities getting in the way. You’re ready to find meaning. Most of all, you’re ready to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of purpose and hope.
Life can leave us feeling lost, damaged, and disconnected from our selves. You may be fed up with feeling confused in everyday situations or isolated from friends who can’t understand. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your insecurities getting in the way. You’re ready to find meaning. Most of all, you’re ready to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of purpose and hope.
(630) 446-6534 View (630) 446-6534
Photo of Matthew Goles, Counselor in Batavia, IL
Matthew Goles
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
The relationship between a client and a counselor is important. It is necessary for there to be trust with your counselor and to communicate openly and honestly with each other. That honesty and supportive connection can make a difference. Everyone goes through challenging times, during these times most can benefit from support with problems that seem beyond our control. Together, you and I will work to explore the causes of stress in your life and make a plan to effectively manage them and prevent them from resurfacing again.
The relationship between a client and a counselor is important. It is necessary for there to be trust with your counselor and to communicate openly and honestly with each other. That honesty and supportive connection can make a difference. Everyone goes through challenging times, during these times most can benefit from support with problems that seem beyond our control. Together, you and I will work to explore the causes of stress in your life and make a plan to effectively manage them and prevent them from resurfacing again.
(312) 548-3574 View (312) 548-3574
Photo of Aubrey Benton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Aubrey Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Do you feel nervous, sad, or angry? Maybe you feel some combination of emotions or aren't sure how to put a name to what you are feeling. It might help you to know that "When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary," according to Mister Fred Rogers. I look forward to building a trusting, accepting, and understanding relationship with clients. Please reach out if you would like to discuss working together to help you on your path to healing.
Do you feel nervous, sad, or angry? Maybe you feel some combination of emotions or aren't sure how to put a name to what you are feeling. It might help you to know that "When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary," according to Mister Fred Rogers. I look forward to building a trusting, accepting, and understanding relationship with clients. Please reach out if you would like to discuss working together to help you on your path to healing.
(630) 454-1487 View (630) 454-1487
Catherine Seger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
All of us face many challenges with varying degrees of difficulty to meet our needs and reach our goals. I believe I can help you find a solution to some of these problems and assist you in achieving success. My job as a therapist is to help you to find the best solution for you, the client.
All of us face many challenges with varying degrees of difficulty to meet our needs and reach our goals. I believe I can help you find a solution to some of these problems and assist you in achieving success. My job as a therapist is to help you to find the best solution for you, the client.
(331) 241-7322 View (331) 241-7322
Photo of Marisol Reyes Schroeder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Batavia, IL
Marisol Reyes Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510  (Online Only)
Everyone deals with a hardship at one point in their lives. During this time, it can be difficult to feel heard, understood, supported. You’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, and you don’t know how to manage everything. You feel like no one understands and it seems as though life keeps getting harder. It seems like you’ve tried everything and nothing is working. I am here to support and guide you in creating positive change. No matter what you’re dealing with or what age you are, I can help you with the difficulties you’re facing.
Everyone deals with a hardship at one point in their lives. During this time, it can be difficult to feel heard, understood, supported. You’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, and you don’t know how to manage everything. You feel like no one understands and it seems as though life keeps getting harder. It seems like you’ve tried everything and nothing is working. I am here to support and guide you in creating positive change. No matter what you’re dealing with or what age you are, I can help you with the difficulties you’re facing.
(331) 244-5584 View (331) 244-5584
Photo of Chelsea Bogda, Counselor in Batavia, IL
Chelsea Bogda
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I have a passion for holding a space for others to feel understood, safe, and connected. I have experience working with individuals facing life stressors/transitions, struggling with task and time management, experiencing overwhelming worry or sadness, symptoms of panic, and individuals who want to strengthen skills of communication.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I have a passion for holding a space for others to feel understood, safe, and connected. I have experience working with individuals facing life stressors/transitions, struggling with task and time management, experiencing overwhelming worry or sadness, symptoms of panic, and individuals who want to strengthen skills of communication.
(331) 256-1797 View (331) 256-1797

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Batavia, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Batavia, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
80% Coping Skills
78% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
68% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Batavia, IL see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Batavia?

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.