Therapists in Mashpee, MA

Photo of Susan Fornaro, Counselor in Mashpee, MA
Susan Fornaro
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you see yourself more clearly by helping you quiet the chatter in your mind, slow down and listen to that small voice inside that knows everything you need to know to have the life you want. Using traditional talking therapy, and combinations of meditation, art, writing and role playing, many people are able to carve out that route to the heart of the matter hidden inside. It's a wonderful journey and I'd love to go there with you.
My goal is to help you see yourself more clearly by helping you quiet the chatter in your mind, slow down and listen to that small voice inside that knows everything you need to know to have the life you want. Using traditional talking therapy, and combinations of meditation, art, writing and role playing, many people are able to carve out that route to the heart of the matter hidden inside. It's a wonderful journey and I'd love to go there with you.
(508) 232-4346 View (508) 232-4346
Photo of Melissa A. Plourde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Melissa A. Plourde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
Waitlist for new clients
As your therapist, I believe in getting to know you and working together as a team through this process. I'm client-centered, and utilize a realistic, cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approach although my counseling style is dependent upon your individual needs. To me, establishing a trusting, empathic, judgment free environment is the key to building a relationship that will support and empower people to achieve their best selves. We will spend the first couple of sessions working on getting to know your needs and together, coming up with topics and goals to focus on.
As your therapist, I believe in getting to know you and working together as a team through this process. I'm client-centered, and utilize a realistic, cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approach although my counseling style is dependent upon your individual needs. To me, establishing a trusting, empathic, judgment free environment is the key to building a relationship that will support and empower people to achieve their best selves. We will spend the first couple of sessions working on getting to know your needs and together, coming up with topics and goals to focus on.
(774) 208-0505 View (774) 208-0505
Photo of Jane E Ginsberg, Psychologist in Mashpee, MA
Jane E Ginsberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
Whether you are struggling with a loss, working through a life transition, challenged in a relationship, or wanting to change a pattern, it can be useful to have a compassionate, honest therapist helping you navigate. Life can be hard but with the right support, nothing is impossible. At different times in life we all become terrified, triggered, overwhelmed, or just realize things are not working. These times of crisis provide opportunities to look at things differently and make new, more grounded choices. I love this work and am comfortable with anything that might come up.
Whether you are struggling with a loss, working through a life transition, challenged in a relationship, or wanting to change a pattern, it can be useful to have a compassionate, honest therapist helping you navigate. Life can be hard but with the right support, nothing is impossible. At different times in life we all become terrified, triggered, overwhelmed, or just realize things are not working. These times of crisis provide opportunities to look at things differently and make new, more grounded choices. I love this work and am comfortable with anything that might come up.
(855) 332-1616 View (855) 332-1616
Photo of Karen Vernen Thompson LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Karen Vernen Thompson LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICW, CADACII, LADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mashpee, MA 02649
Addiction ,depression ,anxiety and trauma are my specialties.I have worked with thousands of adolescents,couples. adults and familes over the last 29 years. Extensive training PTSD. MSW BOSTON COLLEGE LICENCE CLINCAL SOCIAL WORK. DRUG COUNSELOR IN MA. LADCI LICENCE. CERTIFED ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTION COUNSELOR CADACII RAPID RESOLUTION TREATMENT CERTIFIED RRT
Addiction ,depression ,anxiety and trauma are my specialties.I have worked with thousands of adolescents,couples. adults and familes over the last 29 years. Extensive training PTSD. MSW BOSTON COLLEGE LICENCE CLINCAL SOCIAL WORK. DRUG COUNSELOR IN MA. LADCI LICENCE. CERTIFED ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTION COUNSELOR CADACII RAPID RESOLUTION TREATMENT CERTIFIED RRT
(774) 462-5399 View (774) 462-5399
Photo of Lisa M Holmes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Lisa M Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP, CTMHP
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
You're probably here because something in your life feels impossible right now. Just browsing around, looking at your options for a therapist is the first step in taking care of your mental health. You've chosen this moment because it's the right moment for you to start the work that will help you build the life you envision for yourself. I'm here to help and support you as you discover ways to create positive change and find a pathway to your true self. I believe in relentless empathy and constant curiosity and will partner with you in a non-judgmental way to help you build skills you will use for the rest of your life.
You're probably here because something in your life feels impossible right now. Just browsing around, looking at your options for a therapist is the first step in taking care of your mental health. You've chosen this moment because it's the right moment for you to start the work that will help you build the life you envision for yourself. I'm here to help and support you as you discover ways to create positive change and find a pathway to your true self. I believe in relentless empathy and constant curiosity and will partner with you in a non-judgmental way to help you build skills you will use for the rest of your life.
(508) 960-6617 View (508) 960-6617
Photo of Carolyn O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Carolyn O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
Carolyn O'Connor, LICSW, offers individual psychotherapy for adults and older adults experiencing mental health issues. She treats a variety of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders and more. She specializes in treating adults who are managing roles as caregivers for aging adults with dementia, chronic illness and other conditions and disorders. She conducts ivirtual sessions only at this time and is accepting new clients. She will work with you on your treatment goals and building healthy coping skills to manage your symptoms.
Carolyn O'Connor, LICSW, offers individual psychotherapy for adults and older adults experiencing mental health issues. She treats a variety of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders and more. She specializes in treating adults who are managing roles as caregivers for aging adults with dementia, chronic illness and other conditions and disorders. She conducts ivirtual sessions only at this time and is accepting new clients. She will work with you on your treatment goals and building healthy coping skills to manage your symptoms.
(774) 484-1256 View (774) 484-1256
Photo of Donna Jackson, Psychologist in Mashpee, MA
Donna Jackson
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
Not accepting new clients
I have found that when someone is truly heard and understood that an internal shift occurs. This shift allows for greater flexibility, coping, and decision making. I work with people to clarify what they want, the options available to them, and the course of action that works best for them. This may mean working with thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors that inhibit the desired changes or learning new skills and attitudes that promote bringing about these changes. I work to support the inherent human capacity for adaptability which becomes worn down by daily stressors and/or stressful life events.
I have found that when someone is truly heard and understood that an internal shift occurs. This shift allows for greater flexibility, coping, and decision making. I work with people to clarify what they want, the options available to them, and the course of action that works best for them. This may mean working with thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors that inhibit the desired changes or learning new skills and attitudes that promote bringing about these changes. I work to support the inherent human capacity for adaptability which becomes worn down by daily stressors and/or stressful life events.
(774) 251-2275 View (774) 251-2275
Photo of Chase Psychotherapy Practice, Psychologist in Mashpee, MA
Chase Psychotherapy Practice
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
The decision to seek therapy can be challenging, but once you begin, you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who makes you feel safe, supported and hopeful is central to this process. After reading about my approach to therapy, please feel free to reach out to me by phone or email so we can discuss your particular situation and whether I may be able to help.
The decision to seek therapy can be challenging, but once you begin, you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who makes you feel safe, supported and hopeful is central to this process. After reading about my approach to therapy, please feel free to reach out to me by phone or email so we can discuss your particular situation and whether I may be able to help.
(508) 841-3407 View (508) 841-3407
Photo of Yvonne Nickerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Yvonne Nickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! Telehealth Only Are you in a period of transition? Have had a recent loss? Are you struggling with depression and/or anxiety? A space that is non-judgmental, positive and supportive with an understanding and experienced therapist is a place to explore and work to resolve these issues, determine future goals and move forward. This is a starting point on your journey to recovery, wellness, contentment and the future.
Currently accepting new clients! Telehealth Only Are you in a period of transition? Have had a recent loss? Are you struggling with depression and/or anxiety? A space that is non-judgmental, positive and supportive with an understanding and experienced therapist is a place to explore and work to resolve these issues, determine future goals and move forward. This is a starting point on your journey to recovery, wellness, contentment and the future.
(508) 535-5375 View (508) 535-5375
Photo of Liz Donalds, Psy.D., Psychologist in Mashpee, MA
Liz Donalds, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I enjoy helping my clients develop coping skills, improve overall well-being, and resolve personal challenges using evidence based and client centered treatment methods. With 25 years of extensive experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health centers, local public schools, and a busy private practice, I enjoy supporting individuals achieve their personal and treatment goals.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I enjoy helping my clients develop coping skills, improve overall well-being, and resolve personal challenges using evidence based and client centered treatment methods. With 25 years of extensive experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health centers, local public schools, and a busy private practice, I enjoy supporting individuals achieve their personal and treatment goals.
(781) 352-2048 View (781) 352-2048
Photo of Sarah J Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Sarah J Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
I counsel my clients through various life transitions, grief & loss, relationship struggles, career challenges, medical issues, family conflicts, depression, anxiety and other psychological/social/emotional difficulties. I promote overall well-being and personal growth with a holistic approach. I ensure that our sessions are centered around client goals and I approach therapy with a focus on strengths, and work together towards achieving positive outcomes. I am experienced in counseling diverse populations and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals can freely express themselves.
I counsel my clients through various life transitions, grief & loss, relationship struggles, career challenges, medical issues, family conflicts, depression, anxiety and other psychological/social/emotional difficulties. I promote overall well-being and personal growth with a holistic approach. I ensure that our sessions are centered around client goals and I approach therapy with a focus on strengths, and work together towards achieving positive outcomes. I am experienced in counseling diverse populations and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals can freely express themselves.
(508) 501-9404 View (508) 501-9404
Photo of Bridget Armstrong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Bridget Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a dedicated focus on the intersection between physical health and mental well-being, my approach to therapy is rooted in the understanding that the mind and body are intricately connected. Through a holistic lens, I strive to empower individuals to achieve optimal health by addressing the interplay between their emotional, mental, and physical states.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a dedicated focus on the intersection between physical health and mental well-being, my approach to therapy is rooted in the understanding that the mind and body are intricately connected. Through a holistic lens, I strive to empower individuals to achieve optimal health by addressing the interplay between their emotional, mental, and physical states.
(508) 978-4611 View (508) 978-4611
Photo of Kevin Terrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Kevin Terrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mashpee, MA 02649
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience helping individuals and families from all backgrounds deal with life challenges. I am skilled and trained in working with those dealing with substance use/abuse, addiction, life transitions, anxiety and depression. I am honored to assist those who seek a solution to their issues. I will actively listen, provide support and offer suggestions on your journey. Together we can identify issues, barriers and solutions to your problems. You deserve to feel better!
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience helping individuals and families from all backgrounds deal with life challenges. I am skilled and trained in working with those dealing with substance use/abuse, addiction, life transitions, anxiety and depression. I am honored to assist those who seek a solution to their issues. I will actively listen, provide support and offer suggestions on your journey. Together we can identify issues, barriers and solutions to your problems. You deserve to feel better!
(508) 203-4705 View (508) 203-4705
Photo of Ronald G. Marcellus, Counselor in Mashpee, MA
Ronald G. Marcellus
Counselor, LMHC, LADCMA
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
Over 37 years in continuous Recovery from addiction offering support , understanding, education, and facilitation of the coping skills , recovering strategies and healing path you choose.
Over 37 years in continuous Recovery from addiction offering support , understanding, education, and facilitation of the coping skills , recovering strategies and healing path you choose.
(508) 500-8796 View (508) 500-8796
Photo of Karin White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Karin White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, IFS
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
If you are feeling stuck in behaviors or attitudes that limit your ability to live a fuller life or impact your relationships, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) can help you achieve the changes you desire. IFS is the framework I use to help individuals and couples move from where they are stuck into a more desirable way of relating and being internally, with their partner, family and in the world. In my 30 + years of practice I have found that IFS is the most gentle yet profound way to guide people in this transformation. IFS is a radically different way of understanding what happens inside of ourselves.
If you are feeling stuck in behaviors or attitudes that limit your ability to live a fuller life or impact your relationships, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) can help you achieve the changes you desire. IFS is the framework I use to help individuals and couples move from where they are stuck into a more desirable way of relating and being internally, with their partner, family and in the world. In my 30 + years of practice I have found that IFS is the most gentle yet profound way to guide people in this transformation. IFS is a radically different way of understanding what happens inside of ourselves.
(774) 413-7848 View (774) 413-7848
Enlightened Interventions. LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
We understand that our clients come to us with a variety of experiences, skills, and strengths, and we work with you to cultivate your innate resources and develop new skills to help you find sustainable solutions for the issues you are facing. We believe that therapy should be a comfortable collaboration between the therapist and client to best serve client’s wellness needs of mind, body, and spirit. Our licensed, trained, and certified clinicians have been trained at the highest levels possible to work with the specific needs you and your loved ones face.
We understand that our clients come to us with a variety of experiences, skills, and strengths, and we work with you to cultivate your innate resources and develop new skills to help you find sustainable solutions for the issues you are facing. We believe that therapy should be a comfortable collaboration between the therapist and client to best serve client’s wellness needs of mind, body, and spirit. Our licensed, trained, and certified clinicians have been trained at the highest levels possible to work with the specific needs you and your loved ones face.
(508) 687-5616 View (508) 687-5616
Photo of Natalie Loewen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Natalie Loewen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mashpee, MA 02649
Not accepting new clients
I don't have any evening or late afternoon appointments available. Changes and transitions in life, whether positive or negative, can be overwhelming. At some time in our lives, we can find ourselves facing depression, life circumstances, or navigating life’s transitions like aging. We can become overwhelmed with being a caregiver to children or a loved one with an illness. It’s important to learn how to cope with life’s variety of stressors.
I don't have any evening or late afternoon appointments available. Changes and transitions in life, whether positive or negative, can be overwhelming. At some time in our lives, we can find ourselves facing depression, life circumstances, or navigating life’s transitions like aging. We can become overwhelmed with being a caregiver to children or a loved one with an illness. It’s important to learn how to cope with life’s variety of stressors.
(508) 718-2102 View (508) 718-2102
Photo of Zalis Counseling , Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Mashpee, MA
Zalis Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LADC 1, CADC
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
Are you tired of the way you have been feeling? Are you beginning to think your situation is hopeless? Have friends or relations mentioned your alcohol and/or drug use to you? Do you find you need to apologize for your behavior? Perhaps you have legal issues as a result of your use. Do you believe your alcohol and/or drug use may be to blame for the difficulty in your life? Or, instead, are you troubled by a loved one's substance use disorder? I am a professional who specializes in and has experience working with individuals, couples, and worried family members. If you are ready to take action, please contact me.
Are you tired of the way you have been feeling? Are you beginning to think your situation is hopeless? Have friends or relations mentioned your alcohol and/or drug use to you? Do you find you need to apologize for your behavior? Perhaps you have legal issues as a result of your use. Do you believe your alcohol and/or drug use may be to blame for the difficulty in your life? Or, instead, are you troubled by a loved one's substance use disorder? I am a professional who specializes in and has experience working with individuals, couples, and worried family members. If you are ready to take action, please contact me.
(508) 433-3083 View (508) 433-3083
Photo of Joy Ferney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mashpee, MA
Joy Ferney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mashpee, MA 02649
Not accepting new clients
Life feels like it's spinning uncontrollably; where every task is overwhelming. Even if you're able to go to work and be productive, this feeling inside doesn't stop. The thoughts keep coming, you get stomach aches, head aches, you have trouble sleeping. You've tried everything. Drinking too much or abusing other substances becomes a coping method. There's no way things can change. Often, adults and teens feel this way and it can be scary and frustrating. If your a parent, it can be agonizing to watch your teen go through this. Feeling helpless and alone. I so often hear, "I know I need something different, but what?"
Life feels like it's spinning uncontrollably; where every task is overwhelming. Even if you're able to go to work and be productive, this feeling inside doesn't stop. The thoughts keep coming, you get stomach aches, head aches, you have trouble sleeping. You've tried everything. Drinking too much or abusing other substances becomes a coping method. There's no way things can change. Often, adults and teens feel this way and it can be scary and frustrating. If your a parent, it can be agonizing to watch your teen go through this. Feeling helpless and alone. I so often hear, "I know I need something different, but what?"
(774) 208-0754 View (774) 208-0754
Photo of Donlan Counseling Services in Mashpee, MA
Donlan Counseling Services
DBH, MBA, LADC I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mashpee, MA 02649
Not accepting new clients
I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) with over 15 years of experience assisting individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, and addiction. I have worked with patients who have endured emotionally stressful experiences and I recognize the importance of having a supportive guide to help you through the journey to healing and recovery. I use my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support a patient-centered model that I have developed for individualized care. I work with ages 14 + and I pride myself on the ability to connect with my patients on a personal level and instill hope.
I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) with over 15 years of experience assisting individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, and addiction. I have worked with patients who have endured emotionally stressful experiences and I recognize the importance of having a supportive guide to help you through the journey to healing and recovery. I use my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support a patient-centered model that I have developed for individualized care. I work with ages 14 + and I pride myself on the ability to connect with my patients on a personal level and instill hope.
(508) 796-8152 View (508) 796-8152

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mashpee, MA

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Mashpee, MA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
68% Stress
66% Grief

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Harvard Pilgrim

How Therapists in Mashpee, MA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mashpee?

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.