Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA

Photo of Lisa J. Hacken, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Lisa J. Hacken
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Life often tests us, our relationships, and our internal world in ways that are complex, overwhelming, and difficult to navigate alone. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself and better understand and manage the challenging situations and relationships in your life. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My first priority is providing a compassionate, relaxed space where you can feel comfortable and I can get to know you and your unique story. My approach is collaborative and conversational and will support your needs and goals using a variety of therapeutic perspectives and techniques.
Life often tests us, our relationships, and our internal world in ways that are complex, overwhelming, and difficult to navigate alone. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself and better understand and manage the challenging situations and relationships in your life. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My first priority is providing a compassionate, relaxed space where you can feel comfortable and I can get to know you and your unique story. My approach is collaborative and conversational and will support your needs and goals using a variety of therapeutic perspectives and techniques.
(747) 998-0289 View (747) 998-0289
Photo of Craig Melton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Craig Melton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I am a marriage and family therapist in California working with children, families, teens and professional athletes. My specialties include life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems, family stress, parenting, children with developmental delay, addiction and anger management. My counseling style is authentic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines a cognitive-behavioral approach while utilizing mindfulness; solution-focused, and existential modalities.
I am a marriage and family therapist in California working with children, families, teens and professional athletes. My specialties include life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems, family stress, parenting, children with developmental delay, addiction and anger management. My counseling style is authentic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines a cognitive-behavioral approach while utilizing mindfulness; solution-focused, and existential modalities.
(805) 386-9757 View (805) 386-9757
Photo of Jennifer Kadin, Psychologist in Agoura Hills, CA
Jennifer Kadin
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical and Forensic Psychologist for the past 9 years. I currently work at Family Psychological Services providing psychological evaluations and testing in children, adolscents and adults for attention, learning and memory problems. I specialize in individual, family, and couples’ therapy for all ages and utilizes cognitive -behavioral as well as solution focused, psychodynamic, and object relations interventions. I also have many years of experience with risk assessment and psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults and is a skilled diagnostician and treatment planner.
I am a licensed clinical and Forensic Psychologist for the past 9 years. I currently work at Family Psychological Services providing psychological evaluations and testing in children, adolscents and adults for attention, learning and memory problems. I specialize in individual, family, and couples’ therapy for all ages and utilizes cognitive -behavioral as well as solution focused, psychodynamic, and object relations interventions. I also have many years of experience with risk assessment and psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults and is a skilled diagnostician and treatment planner.
(747) 322-4420 View (747) 322-4420
Photo of Stephanie Kirschner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Stephanie Kirschner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping women who are coping with challenges that include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, aging, parenting or launching children, changing roles, loss of meaning, missing deeper purpose. You are here seeking something: improved relationships, greater satisfaction, better life balance, increased resilience, stress reduction, insight, healing, growth and well-being. These are trying times, when life tests your ability to meet the challenges you face on your own. A sense of attunement and a comfortable therapeutic relationship can help reduce your discomfort.
I specialize in helping women who are coping with challenges that include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, aging, parenting or launching children, changing roles, loss of meaning, missing deeper purpose. You are here seeking something: improved relationships, greater satisfaction, better life balance, increased resilience, stress reduction, insight, healing, growth and well-being. These are trying times, when life tests your ability to meet the challenges you face on your own. A sense of attunement and a comfortable therapeutic relationship can help reduce your discomfort.
(818) 865-0615 View (818) 865-0615
Photo of Teri Hartt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Teri Hartt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301  (Online Only)
As a licensed professional living in the community for over twenty years, I have had the opportunity to counsel many individuals, couples and families by assisting them to better cope with life's challenges and helping them to improve their personal relationships. In today's stressful and competitive world, raising a family poses unique obstacles. I provide a non-intimidating, nurturing environment where clients can explore their issues and improve their self-esteem. Due to my life experience and professional training, I believe I am highly qualified to help my clients achieve happier, more productive lives.
As a licensed professional living in the community for over twenty years, I have had the opportunity to counsel many individuals, couples and families by assisting them to better cope with life's challenges and helping them to improve their personal relationships. In today's stressful and competitive world, raising a family poses unique obstacles. I provide a non-intimidating, nurturing environment where clients can explore their issues and improve their self-esteem. Due to my life experience and professional training, I believe I am highly qualified to help my clients achieve happier, more productive lives.
(818) 356-7743 View (818) 356-7743
Photo of Alex Melkumian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Alex Melkumian
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Welcome! Thank you for visiting my page. I know that choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. Selecting someone who has experience working with your concerns, to whom you can connect is essential. You're looking for someone who gets YOU. You want someone who understands, who can help you overcome your unique struggles and help you transform into the person you have always wanted to be. My goal is to provide a home for you to be authentically who you are, without judgment. By understanding how your past relationships shape your current experience, you can gain awareness and understanding of how your perspective is affecting YOU.
Welcome! Thank you for visiting my page. I know that choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. Selecting someone who has experience working with your concerns, to whom you can connect is essential. You're looking for someone who gets YOU. You want someone who understands, who can help you overcome your unique struggles and help you transform into the person you have always wanted to be. My goal is to provide a home for you to be authentically who you are, without judgment. By understanding how your past relationships shape your current experience, you can gain awareness and understanding of how your perspective is affecting YOU.
(747) 998-0956 View (747) 998-0956
Photo of Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp, Psychologist in Agoura Hills, CA
Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
(424) 329-1123 View (424) 329-1123
Photo of Ariana Carolyn Savich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Ariana Carolyn Savich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
My name is Ariana and I have a passion for serving my community, ranging from relationship and family conflict issues to managing depression and anxiety. I have been licensed and have had a private practice for over 6 years, but I have served the mental health community for over 15 years. I have worked and practiced in multiple community and mental health settings including with individuals and families struggling with domestic violence and abuse, eating disorders, addiction recovery and more in order to gain as much experience as I can to create the specialized treatment plan to meet the needs of every individual that I serve.
My name is Ariana and I have a passion for serving my community, ranging from relationship and family conflict issues to managing depression and anxiety. I have been licensed and have had a private practice for over 6 years, but I have served the mental health community for over 15 years. I have worked and practiced in multiple community and mental health settings including with individuals and families struggling with domestic violence and abuse, eating disorders, addiction recovery and more in order to gain as much experience as I can to create the specialized treatment plan to meet the needs of every individual that I serve.
(747) 247-9633 View (747) 247-9633
Photo of Kimberly Tortorici, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Kimberly Tortorici
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Not accepting new clients
Choosing a therapist can be overwhelming and confusing. It's hard to know who to choose when there are so many therapists out there. I can help answer questions you have about therapy, and help you find what you're looking for. Therapy works when there's a connection between you and the therapist, you feel understood, not judged, and safe. It's important to find someone you are comfortable with and has experience with your particular concern. I can help point you in the right direction.
Choosing a therapist can be overwhelming and confusing. It's hard to know who to choose when there are so many therapists out there. I can help answer questions you have about therapy, and help you find what you're looking for. Therapy works when there's a connection between you and the therapist, you feel understood, not judged, and safe. It's important to find someone you are comfortable with and has experience with your particular concern. I can help point you in the right direction.
(818) 403-5955 View (818) 403-5955
Photo of Irene S Fruchtbaum, Psychologist in Agoura Hills, CA
Irene S Fruchtbaum
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I am a licensed, clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience in psychology and psychotherapy with individuals, family and couples. I've been involved in private practice as well as numerous pro-bono projects including organizing a counseling program for Soviet immigrants, providing lectures and seminars for parents on issues of teenage substance abuse and behavior problems.
I am a licensed, clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience in psychology and psychotherapy with individuals, family and couples. I've been involved in private practice as well as numerous pro-bono projects including organizing a counseling program for Soviet immigrants, providing lectures and seminars for parents on issues of teenage substance abuse and behavior problems.
(213) 322-0520 View (213) 322-0520
Photo of Caren Jinich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Caren Jinich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Caren Jinich is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1999. Caren is bilingual, bicultural, empathetic, dynamic, and always trying to find the positive and encouraging clients to look at their strengths! Outside of work, Caren loves to be around water, hiking, and nature!.
Caren Jinich is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1999. Caren is bilingual, bicultural, empathetic, dynamic, and always trying to find the positive and encouraging clients to look at their strengths! Outside of work, Caren loves to be around water, hiking, and nature!.
(747) 293-4104 View (747) 293-4104
Photo of Lori Kansteiner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Lori Kansteiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CA
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I have a client-centered approach that utilizes mindfulness, experiential, and cognitive behavioral methods to help you address compulsive behaviors, addiction, mental health, emotional, and relationship issues with increased awareness and compassion. I am experienced with working with individuals with co-occurring disorders of substance abuse and mental health issues using a family systems approach. I specialize in treating mood disorders, chronic pain, and anxiety disorders. I can help you improve your quality of life and enhance your relationships with loved ones.
I have a client-centered approach that utilizes mindfulness, experiential, and cognitive behavioral methods to help you address compulsive behaviors, addiction, mental health, emotional, and relationship issues with increased awareness and compassion. I am experienced with working with individuals with co-occurring disorders of substance abuse and mental health issues using a family systems approach. I specialize in treating mood disorders, chronic pain, and anxiety disorders. I can help you improve your quality of life and enhance your relationships with loved ones.
(747) 302-4372 View (747) 302-4372
Photo of Pegeen Cronin, Psychologist in Agoura Hills, CA
Pegeen Cronin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91376
I provide diagnostic evaluations for individuals of all ages who are suspected of having a developmental disability, learning disability or other social emotional challenges. The evaluation process provides results, recommendations, and a road map for the future that is based on best practice standards.
I provide diagnostic evaluations for individuals of all ages who are suspected of having a developmental disability, learning disability or other social emotional challenges. The evaluation process provides results, recommendations, and a road map for the future that is based on best practice standards.
(877) 428-8478 View (877) 428-8478
Photo of Julie Klamon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Julie Klamon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Are you concerned about your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues? I have extensive experience helping children and teens navigate complex emotions related to anxiety, depression, trauma, peer difficulties, and sexual abuse. Together, we will develop coping skills, practice mindfulness, and strengthen family bonds to promote healing and growth. Schedule a free consultation to discuss how I can support your child's well-being.
Are you concerned about your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues? I have extensive experience helping children and teens navigate complex emotions related to anxiety, depression, trauma, peer difficulties, and sexual abuse. Together, we will develop coping skills, practice mindfulness, and strengthen family bonds to promote healing and growth. Schedule a free consultation to discuss how I can support your child's well-being.
(747) 205-4009 View (747) 205-4009
Photo of Cheryl R Grenville, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Cheryl R Grenville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Do you have any difficult relationships in your life? Do you ever feel anxious, sad or just feel stuck? Are you observing your teen or young adult having difficulties in school, socially or at home? I provide a gentle approach to counseling in a non-judgmental, safe and empathetic environment. My focus is on helping you to help yourself. We work together to sort out the issues that are bothering you.
Do you have any difficult relationships in your life? Do you ever feel anxious, sad or just feel stuck? Are you observing your teen or young adult having difficulties in school, socially or at home? I provide a gentle approach to counseling in a non-judgmental, safe and empathetic environment. My focus is on helping you to help yourself. We work together to sort out the issues that are bothering you.
(818) 672-5215 View (818) 672-5215
Photo of Pacific Assessments and Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Pacific Assessments and Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Michelle specializes in working with women and adolescents who have experienced trauma, abusive relationships, and violence. Michelle is passionate about serving people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and walks of life. She works to understand one’s life circumstances that may contribute to mental health issues. She aims to empower her clients to create space, balance, time, and strength to process and embrace their needs.
Michelle specializes in working with women and adolescents who have experienced trauma, abusive relationships, and violence. Michelle is passionate about serving people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and walks of life. She works to understand one’s life circumstances that may contribute to mental health issues. She aims to empower her clients to create space, balance, time, and strength to process and embrace their needs.
(818) 423-4232 View (818) 423-4232
Photo of Eynav Elgavish Accortt, Psychologist in Agoura Hills, CA
Eynav Elgavish Accortt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Did you know that women are 2-3 times more likely to be depressed than men and the reproductive years present the most challenges? A pregnant or postpartum woman who finds herself distressed, depressed and anxious often feels alone. You may feel ashamed, alienated, inadequate and guilty. You may wonder how you could feel this bad when you love your baby. These thoughts and feelings are symptoms. They are not a definition of who you are as a person, a woman, or a mother. You are not alone, this is not your fault. With treatment, you can feel better.
Did you know that women are 2-3 times more likely to be depressed than men and the reproductive years present the most challenges? A pregnant or postpartum woman who finds herself distressed, depressed and anxious often feels alone. You may feel ashamed, alienated, inadequate and guilty. You may wonder how you could feel this bad when you love your baby. These thoughts and feelings are symptoms. They are not a definition of who you are as a person, a woman, or a mother. You are not alone, this is not your fault. With treatment, you can feel better.
(818) 616-8121 View (818) 616-8121
Photo of Pedro F. Báez - Master Certified Coach in Agoura Hills, CA
Pedro F. Báez - Master Certified Coach
LVN, MCC, CHC
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Get Clear. Get Unstuck. Get Going. Get Results. - I coach clients on how to utilize their personal gifts and challenges to fully own and access their intellectual, spiritual and emotional resources, expand life perspectives and discard negative, stagnant and limiting beliefs, thoughts and behaviors. I can assist you enhance your interpersonal communication skills in order to advance your personal and professional goals, achieve emotional mastery and explore the subtle dynamics and countless benefits of practical mindfulness, self-integrity, authentic presence and interconnectedness.
Get Clear. Get Unstuck. Get Going. Get Results. - I coach clients on how to utilize their personal gifts and challenges to fully own and access their intellectual, spiritual and emotional resources, expand life perspectives and discard negative, stagnant and limiting beliefs, thoughts and behaviors. I can assist you enhance your interpersonal communication skills in order to advance your personal and professional goals, achieve emotional mastery and explore the subtle dynamics and countless benefits of practical mindfulness, self-integrity, authentic presence and interconnectedness.
(626) 714-2833 View (626) 714-2833
Photo of Nicolle Alex, Marriage & Family Therapist in Agoura Hills, CA
Nicolle Alex
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Clinica, l
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You're not alone. You've got more strength inside you than you might realize, and I'm here to help you reconnect with it. In my practice, I strive to create a nurturing environment for my clients—a safe space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. Together, we'll gently navigate through the challenges you're facing, uncover valuable insights and develop strategies to help you cope. Whatever you're going through, I'm here to offer you compassion and support as you journey towards healing and growth. You don't have to face this alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You're not alone. You've got more strength inside you than you might realize, and I'm here to help you reconnect with it. In my practice, I strive to create a nurturing environment for my clients—a safe space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. Together, we'll gently navigate through the challenges you're facing, uncover valuable insights and develop strategies to help you cope. Whatever you're going through, I'm here to offer you compassion and support as you journey towards healing and growth. You don't have to face this alone.
(747) 298-5648 View (747) 298-5648
Photo of Parisa Samii, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Agoura Hills, CA
Parisa Samii
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Do your instincts suggest that the status quo is not aligning with the life you envision? Perhaps you get through your days but cannot shake the feeling that your path could feel different. Contemplating a better future can be daunting. Now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about finding their place and how to make the most of their relationships with others. I believe there is hope. I start by offering genuine curiosity in your unique story with an open-minded, collaborative approach.
Do your instincts suggest that the status quo is not aligning with the life you envision? Perhaps you get through your days but cannot shake the feeling that your path could feel different. Contemplating a better future can be daunting. Now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about finding their place and how to make the most of their relationships with others. I believe there is hope. I start by offering genuine curiosity in your unique story with an open-minded, collaborative approach.
(818) 572-9165 View (818) 572-9165

See more therapy options for Agoura Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA

300+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills
64% Family Conflict
63% Grief

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% Aetna
53% Cigna and Evernorth
47% Optum

How Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Agoura Hills?

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.