Therapists in Fairview Park, OH

Photo of Kasey L Aitken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Kasey L Aitken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
The decision to begin therapy can be a difficult one. It is important to find a therapist who can offer you insight, support, and safety to express your thoughts and feelings. My hope is that you can learn and apply your strengths to be the best version of yourself. At this time I work with adults as well as children (3+) . If you have any questions or think we may be a good fit, please feel free to reach out!
The decision to begin therapy can be a difficult one. It is important to find a therapist who can offer you insight, support, and safety to express your thoughts and feelings. My hope is that you can learn and apply your strengths to be the best version of yourself. At this time I work with adults as well as children (3+) . If you have any questions or think we may be a good fit, please feel free to reach out!
(440) 271-8508 View (440) 271-8508
Laurie Knowlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW-S, SAP
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Clients who have a sincere investment in improving the quality of their lives are those with whom I work best. I have extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disorders, so I am comfortable working with those whose lives have been interrupted by the devastating effects of addiction. This includes family members of those who have developed addictions to mood altering chemicals. I work with those who are in recovery from substance use disorders and can guide those who are actively using into an appropriate level of care.
Clients who have a sincere investment in improving the quality of their lives are those with whom I work best. I have extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disorders, so I am comfortable working with those whose lives have been interrupted by the devastating effects of addiction. This includes family members of those who have developed addictions to mood altering chemicals. I work with those who are in recovery from substance use disorders and can guide those who are actively using into an appropriate level of care.
(440) 969-6433 View (440) 969-6433
Photo of Kira Lynn Karabanovs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Kira Lynn Karabanovs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Stories can be complicated and full of uncertainty. When change occurs quickly it is easy to lose sight of what makes us truly happy and healthy; thus making our story complicated at times. Every person is unique and has their own way of interpreting their story. Therapy works to foster hope and nourish the expectation of change; only if it is linked to responsive knowledge and evidence-based practices.
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Stories can be complicated and full of uncertainty. When change occurs quickly it is easy to lose sight of what makes us truly happy and healthy; thus making our story complicated at times. Every person is unique and has their own way of interpreting their story. Therapy works to foster hope and nourish the expectation of change; only if it is linked to responsive knowledge and evidence-based practices.
(440) 266-4207 View (440) 266-4207
Photo of Airielle Banaszak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Airielle Banaszak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Advanced Hypnotherapist and strengths based Therapist dedicated to empowering people to define and live their best lives. I have been in the field for 20 + years and have worked with folks on adjusting to all sorts of difficulties life brings, depression, anxiety, phobias, purpose and familial issues among other things. I welcome all walks of life and look forward to learning about you so that together we can get you moving along your unique life path.
I am an Advanced Hypnotherapist and strengths based Therapist dedicated to empowering people to define and live their best lives. I have been in the field for 20 + years and have worked with folks on adjusting to all sorts of difficulties life brings, depression, anxiety, phobias, purpose and familial issues among other things. I welcome all walks of life and look forward to learning about you so that together we can get you moving along your unique life path.
(216) 350-0625 View (216) 350-0625
Photo of Melvin Joy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Melvin Joy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126  (Online Only)
My heart is with trans clients. I enjoy helping them gain access to gender affirming medical care that is truly life saving. I offer telehealth sessions in order to be able to reach every part of Ohio and increase accessibility to services overall. All parts of you are welcome here.
My heart is with trans clients. I enjoy helping them gain access to gender affirming medical care that is truly life saving. I offer telehealth sessions in order to be able to reach every part of Ohio and increase accessibility to services overall. All parts of you are welcome here.
(440) 762-7344 View (440) 762-7344
Photo of Deborah Koricke, Psychologist in Fairview Park, OH
Deborah Koricke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
The people who come to see me for help get my compassion, understanding and good judgment. Often, what is required is someone to talk with, who will pay attention and listen objectively, and then communicate that understanding in a way that is helpful. I like to give my clients practical ideas that can help enhance the conduct of their lives. I also think that by talking things out with an experienced professional, my clients gain the courage to take control of their lives and make the (sometimes difficult) choices they know they need to make.
The people who come to see me for help get my compassion, understanding and good judgment. Often, what is required is someone to talk with, who will pay attention and listen objectively, and then communicate that understanding in a way that is helpful. I like to give my clients practical ideas that can help enhance the conduct of their lives. I also think that by talking things out with an experienced professional, my clients gain the courage to take control of their lives and make the (sometimes difficult) choices they know they need to make.
(440) 276-3462 View (440) 276-3462
Photo of Yvette Goldurs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Yvette Goldurs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Not accepting new clients
Change can be painful yet powerful when you are able to learn more about yourself and grow personally. I have 28 years experience in helping people to heal from grief & loss. I am a trained EMDR therapist, and have experience in many different areas: mood disorders, post-partum depression, anxiety and panic disorders, trauma, stress and anger management, childhood trauma, and adoption issues, as well as helping people cope with medical issues. Additionally, I am trained in IADC--this helps address the deep sadness of loss, with the possibility of experiencing a deeper connection and/or experience with the deceased.
Change can be painful yet powerful when you are able to learn more about yourself and grow personally. I have 28 years experience in helping people to heal from grief & loss. I am a trained EMDR therapist, and have experience in many different areas: mood disorders, post-partum depression, anxiety and panic disorders, trauma, stress and anger management, childhood trauma, and adoption issues, as well as helping people cope with medical issues. Additionally, I am trained in IADC--this helps address the deep sadness of loss, with the possibility of experiencing a deeper connection and/or experience with the deceased.
(216) 526-4208 View (216) 526-4208
Photo of Kimberly Parkinson, Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Kimberly Parkinson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
I work to create a nonjudgmental and compassionate environment for everyone. Whether you're coping with a diagnosis or struggling with daily life stressors, I can help. I have experience treating people living with mood disorders, anxiety and trauma, and substance abuse issues as well as women's health, sexuality and sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, interpersonal relationships, and much more. I have worked with people across the gender spectrum and from all age groups. I am affirming and inclusive to women, LGBTQI+ folks, POC and other traditionally marginalized communities.
I work to create a nonjudgmental and compassionate environment for everyone. Whether you're coping with a diagnosis or struggling with daily life stressors, I can help. I have experience treating people living with mood disorders, anxiety and trauma, and substance abuse issues as well as women's health, sexuality and sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, interpersonal relationships, and much more. I have worked with people across the gender spectrum and from all age groups. I am affirming and inclusive to women, LGBTQI+ folks, POC and other traditionally marginalized communities.
(440) 482-8306 View (440) 482-8306
Photo of Colors+ Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Colors+ Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Est. in 2018, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and here to provide affordable care for you. Our team of licensed clinicians is 100% on your team. Our eclectic group of licensed professional clinical counselors (LPC/LPCC), licensed social workers (LSW/LISW), and marriage and family therapists (MFT) are trained to treat both adults and youth for individual counseling, family counseling and all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous and polyamorous. In addition to traditional talk therapy our clinicians offer art therapy, music therapy, and EMDR to treat a wide range of issues that are unique to each person.
Est. in 2018, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and here to provide affordable care for you. Our team of licensed clinicians is 100% on your team. Our eclectic group of licensed professional clinical counselors (LPC/LPCC), licensed social workers (LSW/LISW), and marriage and family therapists (MFT) are trained to treat both adults and youth for individual counseling, family counseling and all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous and polyamorous. In addition to traditional talk therapy our clinicians offer art therapy, music therapy, and EMDR to treat a wide range of issues that are unique to each person.
(216) 200-8814 View (216) 200-8814
Photo of Patrick Scanlan, Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Patrick Scanlan
Counselor, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126  (Online Only)
I work with young adults, adults and seniors who are experiencing depression, trauma and anxiety to help them build resilience in a judgment-free setting. I work with the formerly incarcerated. The work that we do in prison to help us survive is different than the skills needed to thrive when we are back home. Lets work together to accept who we were, we are and who we might yet be. I work with couples to help them understand the conflict patterns in their relationship and identify new ways of meeting their needs.
I work with young adults, adults and seniors who are experiencing depression, trauma and anxiety to help them build resilience in a judgment-free setting. I work with the formerly incarcerated. The work that we do in prison to help us survive is different than the skills needed to thrive when we are back home. Lets work together to accept who we were, we are and who we might yet be. I work with couples to help them understand the conflict patterns in their relationship and identify new ways of meeting their needs.
(440) 276-6839 View (440) 276-6839
Photo of Tara Nicotra Clemente, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Tara Nicotra Clemente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126  (Online Only)
Are you your own worst critic? Do you compare yourself to others and think that you’re not ‘good enough’? Do you put yourself last, have trouble communicating and setting boundaries? Maybe you find yourself going through the motions every day, yet have a sense that there is more to life. This can be very painful, and it can feel hard to imagine that life could be different. I’m here to help you develop self-compassion, express yourself, feel more authentic in your relationships, and shift towards a life filled with meaning and purpose. I provide a warm and judgment-free environment where you will feel seen, accepted and respected.
Are you your own worst critic? Do you compare yourself to others and think that you’re not ‘good enough’? Do you put yourself last, have trouble communicating and setting boundaries? Maybe you find yourself going through the motions every day, yet have a sense that there is more to life. This can be very painful, and it can feel hard to imagine that life could be different. I’m here to help you develop self-compassion, express yourself, feel more authentic in your relationships, and shift towards a life filled with meaning and purpose. I provide a warm and judgment-free environment where you will feel seen, accepted and respected.
(520) 457-7107 View (520) 457-7107
Photo of Michael B Leach, Psychologist in Fairview Park, OH
Michael B Leach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
It has been my privilege to help people develop lives that are deeply meaningful and emotionally satisfying. Psychotherapy is not a set of tricks or techniques. Rather, it is a personal relationship that affects people on a number of levels. Most of my clients come away from the process with some new practical skills and new, more adaptive ways of looking at life. They also hone their capacities to look at themselves, with more insight and greater self-understanding. Particularly rewarding for me has been my work with families, assisting them in healing from the wounds and fractures of divorce.
It has been my privilege to help people develop lives that are deeply meaningful and emotionally satisfying. Psychotherapy is not a set of tricks or techniques. Rather, it is a personal relationship that affects people on a number of levels. Most of my clients come away from the process with some new practical skills and new, more adaptive ways of looking at life. They also hone their capacities to look at themselves, with more insight and greater self-understanding. Particularly rewarding for me has been my work with families, assisting them in healing from the wounds and fractures of divorce.
(216) 452-2427 View (216) 452-2427
Photo of Colleen Lynch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Colleen Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Colleen Lynch, I offer telehealth services to individuals in Ohio and Tennessee. I work with each individual to help understand what is going on in your head, how it affects you, and figure out what shifts will help you be able to function and live your best life. It can be a lot of work, but if you are willing to show up and put in the work change is possible.
Hello, I am Colleen Lynch, I offer telehealth services to individuals in Ohio and Tennessee. I work with each individual to help understand what is going on in your head, how it affects you, and figure out what shifts will help you be able to function and live your best life. It can be a lot of work, but if you are willing to show up and put in the work change is possible.
(615) 854-7105 View (615) 854-7105
Photo of Sheila Becking, Psychologist in Fairview Park, OH
Sheila Becking
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression or anxiety, please contact me at 440-785-8514 or email me to schedule an appointment. I have 10+ years of experience helping individuals from adolescents to elderly. My areas of experience include helping people deal with a history of trauma or abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, chemical abuse, and adjustment issues related to life transitions.
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression or anxiety, please contact me at 440-785-8514 or email me to schedule an appointment. I have 10+ years of experience helping individuals from adolescents to elderly. My areas of experience include helping people deal with a history of trauma or abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, chemical abuse, and adjustment issues related to life transitions.
(440) 575-5212 View (440) 575-5212
Photo of Brian Dewyre, Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Brian Dewyre
Counselor, PCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
When I entered the counseling profession over twenty-five years ago, my desire was to help people adjust to some of life's challenges and setbacks, while finding meaning and purpose. The therapeutic relationship is a safe venue in which one’s goals, whether life coaching, healing and recovery, improving relationships, or enhancing life satisfaction can be realized. My excitement for assisting people to develop meaningful goals for fulfillment in their life situation remains a passion. I work with children, adolescents, adults of all ages, and families to improve the quality of their lives.
When I entered the counseling profession over twenty-five years ago, my desire was to help people adjust to some of life's challenges and setbacks, while finding meaning and purpose. The therapeutic relationship is a safe venue in which one’s goals, whether life coaching, healing and recovery, improving relationships, or enhancing life satisfaction can be realized. My excitement for assisting people to develop meaningful goals for fulfillment in their life situation remains a passion. I work with children, adolescents, adults of all ages, and families to improve the quality of their lives.
(440) 287-7448 View (440) 287-7448
Photo of Christine Carey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Christine Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Christine Carey has over 30 years of experience working in clinical settings with children and adolescents. She holds a B.A. degree in Social work and MSSA (social work), from Cleveland State University and Case western Reserve University. She concentrated in child and adolescent mental health with a particular focus on childhood development. She also hold a post-graduate certification in marital and family therapy from The Family Therapy Center at The University of Cincinnati.
Christine Carey has over 30 years of experience working in clinical settings with children and adolescents. She holds a B.A. degree in Social work and MSSA (social work), from Cleveland State University and Case western Reserve University. She concentrated in child and adolescent mental health with a particular focus on childhood development. She also hold a post-graduate certification in marital and family therapy from The Family Therapy Center at The University of Cincinnati.
(440) 760-5785 View (440) 760-5785
Photo of Vanilda Reyes de Noyes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairview Park, OH
Vanilda Reyes de Noyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Vanilda Reyes de Noyes is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2007. Through her work in a variety of settings including community mental health centers, hospitals, and churches, Vanilda has seen the need to create an environment where people can experience support and healing. She is committed to having a person-centered approach to help clients meet their therapeutic goals. In her spare time, Vanilda enjoys spending time with family and friends, a good cup of coffee, weight training at the gym, reading, and going on walks.
Vanilda Reyes de Noyes is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2007. Through her work in a variety of settings including community mental health centers, hospitals, and churches, Vanilda has seen the need to create an environment where people can experience support and healing. She is committed to having a person-centered approach to help clients meet their therapeutic goals. In her spare time, Vanilda enjoys spending time with family and friends, a good cup of coffee, weight training at the gym, reading, and going on walks.
(440) 659-2411 View (440) 659-2411
Photo of Curtis Lehr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Curtis Lehr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Not accepting new clients
It can be a difficult decision making the choice to seek therapy but the right one. This is a time for healing and building and when you make the choice to start this journey we can work together to achieve this. I have helped clients manage their mental health in school, community and inpatient settings. If you are feeling angry all the time, having difficulties getting out of bed in the morning, feeling so anxious you can't move , thoughts of self-harm, urges to use, low self esteem, having difficulty adjusting to life's stressors, unsure of life's direction or are having challenges in relationships of any kind I am here to help.
It can be a difficult decision making the choice to seek therapy but the right one. This is a time for healing and building and when you make the choice to start this journey we can work together to achieve this. I have helped clients manage their mental health in school, community and inpatient settings. If you are feeling angry all the time, having difficulties getting out of bed in the morning, feeling so anxious you can't move , thoughts of self-harm, urges to use, low self esteem, having difficulty adjusting to life's stressors, unsure of life's direction or are having challenges in relationships of any kind I am here to help.
(440) 693-2838 View (440) 693-2838
Photo of Gabriel Somarriba, Psychologist in Fairview Park, OH
Gabriel Somarriba
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Dr. Somarriba is a clinical psychologist who is fluent in both English and Spanish. He received his doctoral degree in psychology, his master's degree in clinical psychology from Divine Mercy University and his bachelor's degree in international studies from American University. He also completed a post-doctoral fellowship in family medicine at MetroHealth Medical Center. He has experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments for patients of all ages.
Dr. Somarriba is a clinical psychologist who is fluent in both English and Spanish. He received his doctoral degree in psychology, his master's degree in clinical psychology from Divine Mercy University and his bachelor's degree in international studies from American University. He also completed a post-doctoral fellowship in family medicine at MetroHealth Medical Center. He has experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments for patients of all ages.
(440) 737-3732 View (440) 737-3732
Photo of Erica Allen, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Fairview Park, OH
Erica Allen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fairview Park, OH 44126
Erica Allen is a Professional Clinical Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2008. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Miami University and graduated from the University of Akron with a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She utilizes family systems therapy which explores the strengths of the family and the impact of generational, social, community and cultural factors in treatment. She also incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Erica Allen is a Professional Clinical Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2008. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Miami University and graduated from the University of Akron with a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She utilizes family systems therapy which explores the strengths of the family and the impact of generational, social, community and cultural factors in treatment. She also incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
(440) 530-7426 View (440) 530-7426

See more therapy options for Fairview Park

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fairview Park, OH

40+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Fairview Park, OH who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
79% Grief
77% Trauma and PTSD
56% Relationship Issues
56% Life Transitions
51% ADHD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
88% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Fairview Park, OH see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
17% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fairview Park?

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.