Therapists in Leawood, KS

Photo of Elaina Pivovar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leawood, KS
Elaina Pivovar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
Many of us have arrived at points in life where we feel alone and lost. Disappointments, losses and wounds leave us feeling that we are not enough, disconnected, hopeless and stuck. Whether life has brought new obstacles that feel impossible to cope with, or if you have past wounds that you don’t know how to heal from, I would be honored to be part of your journey. In our time together, I will work to help you finally find freedom from the lies that hold you back from living a meaningful, satisfying and connected life. You will find that I am empathetic, gentle and insightful, helping you feel safe and offering a new perspective.
Many of us have arrived at points in life where we feel alone and lost. Disappointments, losses and wounds leave us feeling that we are not enough, disconnected, hopeless and stuck. Whether life has brought new obstacles that feel impossible to cope with, or if you have past wounds that you don’t know how to heal from, I would be honored to be part of your journey. In our time together, I will work to help you finally find freedom from the lies that hold you back from living a meaningful, satisfying and connected life. You will find that I am empathetic, gentle and insightful, helping you feel safe and offering a new perspective.
(913) 347-5146 View (913) 347-5146
Photo of Sally King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leawood, KS
Sally King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66206
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy using IFS (Internal Family Systems) to work with adults and older adults who are going through a major life "event," such as burnout, retirement, or grief and loss. I see many fellow social workers and healthcare providers and we work together in figuring out how to be emotionally ok while working in healthcare (especially post-covid). Many of my clients are caregivers who need support and validation around being so isolated. Clients do best with me who are open to changing some behaviors (including self-care) and are not easily offended when some "therapeutic cussing" occurs!
I enjoy using IFS (Internal Family Systems) to work with adults and older adults who are going through a major life "event," such as burnout, retirement, or grief and loss. I see many fellow social workers and healthcare providers and we work together in figuring out how to be emotionally ok while working in healthcare (especially post-covid). Many of my clients are caregivers who need support and validation around being so isolated. Clients do best with me who are open to changing some behaviors (including self-care) and are not easily offended when some "therapeutic cussing" occurs!
(913) 361-6794 View (913) 361-6794
Photo of Bryce Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leawood, KS
Bryce Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
Waitlist for new clients
When do you to take your car in for service? Warning lights or routine maintenance guide these decisions to keep our vehicles in optimal working condition. Without the required service, your vehicle will fail to operate. Relationships also stop working when we do not maintain them. Similar to vehicles, we often need additional assistance to get it up and running. Is your relationship due for a tune-up or a complete overhaul? Outside of a thorough assessment I will help individuals and couples navigate through their symptoms and relational stress by not only fostering insight, but encouraging an ability to tackle future obstacles.
When do you to take your car in for service? Warning lights or routine maintenance guide these decisions to keep our vehicles in optimal working condition. Without the required service, your vehicle will fail to operate. Relationships also stop working when we do not maintain them. Similar to vehicles, we often need additional assistance to get it up and running. Is your relationship due for a tune-up or a complete overhaul? Outside of a thorough assessment I will help individuals and couples navigate through their symptoms and relational stress by not only fostering insight, but encouraging an ability to tackle future obstacles.
(913) 382-8075 View (913) 382-8075
Photo of James (Jamie) Copaken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leawood, KS
James (Jamie) Copaken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
We're all faced with challenges, big and small. Sometimes these grow to overpower and overwhelm us. The adults, children, and families I work with say that I help them feel heard, valued, comfortable, and that I provide a safe place to explore options and pick the right solutions.
We're all faced with challenges, big and small. Sometimes these grow to overpower and overwhelm us. The adults, children, and families I work with say that I help them feel heard, valued, comfortable, and that I provide a safe place to explore options and pick the right solutions.
(913) 355-6267 View (913) 355-6267
Photo of Stephanie Andrews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leawood, KS
Stephanie Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families experiencing challenges within the family system, which often show up as belligerent teens, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, as well as the myriad issues that arise in the general navigation of life. These issues may include parenting issues, grief and loss, relationships, being part of the sandwich generation, work/life balance. I truly believe you already have the knowledge and wisdom needed to address these issues. As we work together, I will support and guide you as you gain clarity and identify steps to navigate your current challenges.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families experiencing challenges within the family system, which often show up as belligerent teens, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, as well as the myriad issues that arise in the general navigation of life. These issues may include parenting issues, grief and loss, relationships, being part of the sandwich generation, work/life balance. I truly believe you already have the knowledge and wisdom needed to address these issues. As we work together, I will support and guide you as you gain clarity and identify steps to navigate your current challenges.
(913) 937-5524 View (913) 937-5524
Photo of Sydney S. Spears, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leawood, KS
Sydney S. Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211  (Online Only)
I work with adults in their 30s-70s who is overwhelmed with chronic stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief/loss and/or life disrupting childhood trauma/post-traumatic stress. I also work with individuals and couples who want to resolve problems within their relationships, life transitions, divorce, including cultural identity issues. I work well with men who are in midlife (30s-70s) struggling with anxiety, aging and/or depression. I also work with those who are going through many life changes and identity conflicts. These clients often feel lost, stuck and alone. Their anxiety, negativity and low mood is out of control.
I work with adults in their 30s-70s who is overwhelmed with chronic stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief/loss and/or life disrupting childhood trauma/post-traumatic stress. I also work with individuals and couples who want to resolve problems within their relationships, life transitions, divorce, including cultural identity issues. I work well with men who are in midlife (30s-70s) struggling with anxiety, aging and/or depression. I also work with those who are going through many life changes and identity conflicts. These clients often feel lost, stuck and alone. Their anxiety, negativity and low mood is out of control.
(913) 305-4391 View (913) 305-4391
Photo of Lynne Weilert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leawood, KS
Lynne Weilert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
My clients have ranged from 16 to 96. I try to identify with clients of all ages, male or female. Although I practice Christianity, I welcome clients of any faith. I have personally experienced many of the hardships, work and relationship issues, and struggles many of my clients face. My goal is to address your issues with compassion, empathy, confidentiality, and expertise. I provide a safe, warm, and friendly environment to help clients “ find their way through the storms of life.” Call me today!
My clients have ranged from 16 to 96. I try to identify with clients of all ages, male or female. Although I practice Christianity, I welcome clients of any faith. I have personally experienced many of the hardships, work and relationship issues, and struggles many of my clients face. My goal is to address your issues with compassion, empathy, confidentiality, and expertise. I provide a safe, warm, and friendly environment to help clients “ find their way through the storms of life.” Call me today!
(913) 349-5209 View (913) 349-5209
Photo of Heeseong Ha, Counselor in Leawood, KS
Heeseong Ha
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LCAC, NCTTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66209
Heeseong is a compassionate licensed clinical professional counselor and licensed clinical addiction counselor with a specialization in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Cultural issues, and Drug and Alcohol-related Addiction. She is also trained in EMDR approved by EMDRIA. With over 10 years of experience, she is dedicated to providing exceptional mental health and addiction counseling services to clients of all ages. With a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach, she believes in collaborative and working relationships with her clients based on trust and transparent communication.
Heeseong is a compassionate licensed clinical professional counselor and licensed clinical addiction counselor with a specialization in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Cultural issues, and Drug and Alcohol-related Addiction. She is also trained in EMDR approved by EMDRIA. With over 10 years of experience, she is dedicated to providing exceptional mental health and addiction counseling services to clients of all ages. With a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach, she believes in collaborative and working relationships with her clients based on trust and transparent communication.
(913) 349-7313 View (913) 349-7313
Photo of Haley Wagonblott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leawood, KS
Haley Wagonblott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
Have you been feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Maybe you have been struggling with low-self-esteem? Or experiencing difficulties within your relationships? Sometimes our concerns can feel very isolating and beginning to search for a therapist feels like an overwhelming task. I will work with you to create the kind of life you want to be living by using the strengths you already possess. I incorporate skills/strategies you can practice outside of session to assist with your concerns.
Have you been feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Maybe you have been struggling with low-self-esteem? Or experiencing difficulties within your relationships? Sometimes our concerns can feel very isolating and beginning to search for a therapist feels like an overwhelming task. I will work with you to create the kind of life you want to be living by using the strengths you already possess. I incorporate skills/strategies you can practice outside of session to assist with your concerns.
(913) 347-4196 View (913) 347-4196
Photo of Nicole Muther, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leawood, KS
Nicole Muther
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66206
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here looking for support! I know it can so often feel like everyone around you is living their absolute best life while you feel like a hot mess. I'm here to be a safe space for teen girls and women in their twenties wanting to process all things anxiety, self-confidence + self-worth. I love helping my clients show up as their most confident self in their relationships with significant others, friends, and family.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here looking for support! I know it can so often feel like everyone around you is living their absolute best life while you feel like a hot mess. I'm here to be a safe space for teen girls and women in their twenties wanting to process all things anxiety, self-confidence + self-worth. I love helping my clients show up as their most confident self in their relationships with significant others, friends, and family.
(913) 648-9472 View (913) 648-9472
Photo of Hannah Meyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leawood, KS
Hannah Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
My hope is that when you enter my office you feel safe, heard, and seen when you share your story with me. I provide therapy for children 5+, teens, and adults, including families. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, familial/relationship stress, and women's therapy
My hope is that when you enter my office you feel safe, heard, and seen when you share your story with me. I provide therapy for children 5+, teens, and adults, including families. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, familial/relationship stress, and women's therapy
(913) 392-5766 View (913) 392-5766
Photo of Angie Viets in Leawood, KS
Angie Viets
LCP, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience. My areas of interest and experience include treating adults experiencing a wide range of concerns such as, relationship problems, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and life stressors (who doesn't have those?). I've had the unique opportunity over the years to work with physicians, professors, attorneys, and other therapists. I tend to work best with clients who are invested in making positive changes, personally and/or professionally, to create a meaningful life.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience. My areas of interest and experience include treating adults experiencing a wide range of concerns such as, relationship problems, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and life stressors (who doesn't have those?). I've had the unique opportunity over the years to work with physicians, professors, attorneys, and other therapists. I tend to work best with clients who are invested in making positive changes, personally and/or professionally, to create a meaningful life.
(785) 829-4709 View (785) 829-4709
Photo of Kenedee Parry in Leawood, KS
Kenedee Parry
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are." Sometimes we lose ourselves along the way for whatever reason, be it trauma, loss, depression, anxiety or any number of human experiences. And guess what? It’s okay! You are not alone! When we are disconnected with ourselves, our thoughts lead us to believe we are not good enough or worthy of connection. But you are. It is so brave to want to grow, heal, and rediscover yourself. True healing comes from connection with others and authenticity to the self. I am here to meet you where you are!
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are." Sometimes we lose ourselves along the way for whatever reason, be it trauma, loss, depression, anxiety or any number of human experiences. And guess what? It’s okay! You are not alone! When we are disconnected with ourselves, our thoughts lead us to believe we are not good enough or worthy of connection. But you are. It is so brave to want to grow, heal, and rediscover yourself. True healing comes from connection with others and authenticity to the self. I am here to meet you where you are!
(913) 808-3255 View (913) 808-3255
Photo of Abby Doerksen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leawood, KS
Abby Doerksen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66206
I specialize in assisting individual adults, couples or families who are seeking care for anxiety, depression, relational conflict, trauma, grief, and self-identity.
I specialize in assisting individual adults, couples or families who are seeking care for anxiety, depression, relational conflict, trauma, grief, and self-identity.
(913) 398-4007 View (913) 398-4007
Photo of Fred Mayfield, Counselor in Leawood, KS
Fred Mayfield
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
I am grateful to have been a part of helping so many individuals, couples, and blending families resolve their issues over the past 35 years. While the experience has honed my therapy skills, each new person or relationship is unique and requires exploring solutions that fit their individual personality.
I am grateful to have been a part of helping so many individuals, couples, and blending families resolve their issues over the past 35 years. While the experience has honed my therapy skills, each new person or relationship is unique and requires exploring solutions that fit their individual personality.
(913) 667-7149 View (913) 667-7149
Photo of Barbara Ellen Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leawood, KS
Barbara Ellen Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
Are you feeling lonely and filled with frustration from an unpredictable and disrespectful relationship? Is your relationship filled with emotionally draining accusations and feel like you defend and over-explain yourself too often? Does your loved one swing from being kind to ill-tempered? Do you “sugar-coat” and rationalize their behavior? Narcissistic gaslighting or dysfunctional controlling behaviors cause us to question our sanity. You are not alone! Let me use my TWENTY PLUS years of experience to counsel and assist you in creating a fulfilling and enjoyable life.
Are you feeling lonely and filled with frustration from an unpredictable and disrespectful relationship? Is your relationship filled with emotionally draining accusations and feel like you defend and over-explain yourself too often? Does your loved one swing from being kind to ill-tempered? Do you “sugar-coat” and rationalize their behavior? Narcissistic gaslighting or dysfunctional controlling behaviors cause us to question our sanity. You are not alone! Let me use my TWENTY PLUS years of experience to counsel and assist you in creating a fulfilling and enjoyable life.
(913) 270-2608 View (913) 270-2608
Photo of Michelle Benton, Counselor in Leawood, KS
Michelle Benton
Counselor, MA, LPC, ACG
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66224
My professional training includes a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, with a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor license in the State of Kansas. Also, I have 125 hours of ADHD coach training from the ADD Coach Academy (www.addca.com). My counseling background consists of experience at a psychiatric residential treatment facility for adolescents. This process included; leading treatment groups and working with family systems. As well as, treatment of various disorders such as; bipolar, major depression, trauma, personality disorders, AD/HD, substance use, and behavioral conditions.
My professional training includes a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, with a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor license in the State of Kansas. Also, I have 125 hours of ADHD coach training from the ADD Coach Academy (www.addca.com). My counseling background consists of experience at a psychiatric residential treatment facility for adolescents. This process included; leading treatment groups and working with family systems. As well as, treatment of various disorders such as; bipolar, major depression, trauma, personality disorders, AD/HD, substance use, and behavioral conditions.
(913) 752-9641 View (913) 752-9641
Photo of Cathy Linde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leawood, KS
Cathy Linde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66209
Are you struggling to feel like yourself? "Coping" but with lots of effort, distraction, or numbing? Feeling anxious, angry, overwhelmed? Thinking "What's wrong with me?!" As it turns out, you're not crazy or broken: Your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors make sense as responses to your unique life experiences. With me you will learn a new language to talk about what's happening inside, and to see it as a result of what you've been through vs a character flaw. When "broken" is no longer your identity, your symptoms have less power, and space opens up for your authentic, grounded, compassionate, and boundaried self to emerge.
Are you struggling to feel like yourself? "Coping" but with lots of effort, distraction, or numbing? Feeling anxious, angry, overwhelmed? Thinking "What's wrong with me?!" As it turns out, you're not crazy or broken: Your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors make sense as responses to your unique life experiences. With me you will learn a new language to talk about what's happening inside, and to see it as a result of what you've been through vs a character flaw. When "broken" is no longer your identity, your symptoms have less power, and space opens up for your authentic, grounded, compassionate, and boundaried self to emerge.
(913) 214-8563 View (913) 214-8563
Photo of Dori A Velasquez-Peach in Leawood, KS
Dori A Velasquez-Peach
MA, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
I believe the most important factor to success in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Finding the right fit is essential. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment to address your specific needs. I work with both adults and children, as young as preschool age. I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques and activities. In order to be successful, one on one therapy is provided at your child’s social, emotional, and developmental level. I actively support and collaborate with parents. I work to develop a relationship with adults to identify their strengths and goals. My goal is for you to feel successful.
I believe the most important factor to success in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Finding the right fit is essential. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment to address your specific needs. I work with both adults and children, as young as preschool age. I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques and activities. In order to be successful, one on one therapy is provided at your child’s social, emotional, and developmental level. I actively support and collaborate with parents. I work to develop a relationship with adults to identify their strengths and goals. My goal is for you to feel successful.
(913) 828-3461 View (913) 828-3461
Photo of Rebecca Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leawood, KS
Rebecca Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leawood, KS 66211
Feel free to call me Becca! From a young age, I have known that I wanted to help others. Through my own experience in counseling, I have found peace through healing and aim to help others find their own path to peace. I have personal experience with chronic illness and abilities of all shapes and sizes in children and adults. My passions lie with working with young children to adolescents as well as working with Deaf/deaf/HOH of any age. I am affirming of all individuals and am glad to meet you where you are in your journey.
Feel free to call me Becca! From a young age, I have known that I wanted to help others. Through my own experience in counseling, I have found peace through healing and aim to help others find their own path to peace. I have personal experience with chronic illness and abilities of all shapes and sizes in children and adults. My passions lie with working with young children to adolescents as well as working with Deaf/deaf/HOH of any age. I am affirming of all individuals and am glad to meet you where you are in your journey.
(913) 379-3710 View (913) 379-3710

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Leawood, KS

200+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Leawood, KS who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
72% Coping Skills
72% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

55% Aetna
54% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
53% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Leawood, KS see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Leawood?

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.