Photo of Alan W. Brooks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alan W. Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love helping couples enrich their relationships and ignite the spark. I specialize in addiction, including porn addiction. I am certified in EMDR, a trauma therapy modality. I also work with adults struggling with anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love helping couples enrich their relationships and ignite the spark. I specialize in addiction, including porn addiction. I am certified in EMDR, a trauma therapy modality. I also work with adults struggling with anxiety and depression.
(801) 829-9169 View (801) 829-9169
Photo of Trudi R Perkins, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trudi R Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Ogden, UT 84403
Reclaiming your strength and resilience after experiencing trauma is a vital step toward healing. If you're feeling exhausted from anxiety and depression, and finding it difficult to practice self-compassion, I am here to support you. Using evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, DBT, and behavioral interventions, we will work together to unravel the layers of pain and unlock your inner potential. I will be by your side on this journey toward healing and growth. Together, we will navigate the path to reclaiming your inner strength and rediscovering your sense of self.
Reclaiming your strength and resilience after experiencing trauma is a vital step toward healing. If you're feeling exhausted from anxiety and depression, and finding it difficult to practice self-compassion, I am here to support you. Using evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, DBT, and behavioral interventions, we will work together to unravel the layers of pain and unlock your inner potential. I will be by your side on this journey toward healing and growth. Together, we will navigate the path to reclaiming your inner strength and rediscovering your sense of self.
(385) 323-3694 View (385) 323-3694
Photo of Tilly Evans, CSW-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tilly Evans
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
I have immediate openings for new clients in-person in Ogden and by telehealth for all of Utah. I find therapy to be a very fulfilling job. I believe every individual out there has something to share and learn from. I find it a great honor to be a part of my client’s lives and be entrusted with what they are willing to share. I believe that therapy is an alliance between the therapist and the client and a coequal relationship. I strive to find the best evidence-based practice that fits the client’s goals. I am trained in DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. I work with families, couples, adolescents, and young adults.
I have immediate openings for new clients in-person in Ogden and by telehealth for all of Utah. I find therapy to be a very fulfilling job. I believe every individual out there has something to share and learn from. I find it a great honor to be a part of my client’s lives and be entrusted with what they are willing to share. I believe that therapy is an alliance between the therapist and the client and a coequal relationship. I strive to find the best evidence-based practice that fits the client’s goals. I am trained in DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. I work with families, couples, adolescents, and young adults.
(385) 786-6468 View (385) 786-6468
Photo of Charles (Charlie) Mark Osborne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles (Charlie) Mark Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
Are you struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, or trauma? You deserve a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore the root of your emotional patterns and develop strategies for lasting change. We can help you overcome your challenges and achieve personal growth, leading to a more fulfilling life. At Gratitude Counseling Services, we work together to transform your life by providing practical tools and supportive guidance tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to start your journey.
Are you struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, or trauma? You deserve a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore the root of your emotional patterns and develop strategies for lasting change. We can help you overcome your challenges and achieve personal growth, leading to a more fulfilling life. At Gratitude Counseling Services, we work together to transform your life by providing practical tools and supportive guidance tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to start your journey.
(385) 316-6325 View (385) 316-6325
Photo of Michelle Cherry, CMHC, Counselor
Michelle Cherry
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Ogden, UT 84403
I am the owner and director of Monarch Therapy. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor I work with individuals, couples, and families to address a variety of emotional and mental health issues. I have worked with adults, children, adolescents and families in a variety of settings for over twenty years, and as a mental health therapist for over 15 years. Areas of special interest/training include EMDR; attachment related difficulties; post-traumatic stress disorder; trauma based cognitive behavioral therapy; mood disorders and anxiety and strengthening family relationships; helping blended families learn new ways of functioning,
I am the owner and director of Monarch Therapy. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor I work with individuals, couples, and families to address a variety of emotional and mental health issues. I have worked with adults, children, adolescents and families in a variety of settings for over twenty years, and as a mental health therapist for over 15 years. Areas of special interest/training include EMDR; attachment related difficulties; post-traumatic stress disorder; trauma based cognitive behavioral therapy; mood disorders and anxiety and strengthening family relationships; helping blended families learn new ways of functioning,
(385) 479-8741 View (385) 479-8741
Photo of Mitch Y Hirano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mitch Y Hirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
I have 32+ years of experience providing professional counseling services to individuals, couples, & families. I help individuals who experience depression, anxiety, death of loved ones, abuse, feelings of hopelessness, loss of purpose/meaning in life, & who want to improve overall mental health. I help couples & families resolve conflicts and connect on a deeper leveI. I was born & raised in Southern CA. I have been married to my best friend for 35+ years. We have four daughters & two grandchildren. My wife is a dedicated school teacher. We enjoy gardening, traveling, attending plays/concerts, & spending time with family & friends.
I have 32+ years of experience providing professional counseling services to individuals, couples, & families. I help individuals who experience depression, anxiety, death of loved ones, abuse, feelings of hopelessness, loss of purpose/meaning in life, & who want to improve overall mental health. I help couples & families resolve conflicts and connect on a deeper leveI. I was born & raised in Southern CA. I have been married to my best friend for 35+ years. We have four daughters & two grandchildren. My wife is a dedicated school teacher. We enjoy gardening, traveling, attending plays/concerts, & spending time with family & friends.
(385) 376-1312 View (385) 376-1312
Photo of Kristen Draskovic, RD, RN, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Draskovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RD, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
Are you exhausted from working so hard to feel better and like you're stuck? Have you experienced something really impactful that you want to process to create meaning and well-being? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner and wanting to find new ways to connect and heal past hurts? Relationships can be a place of our biggest wounds and also a source of our greatest healing. Maybe you're a new parent who is feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious. Or are you struggling in your relationship to food and your body? You deserve to have the full life you desire.
Are you exhausted from working so hard to feel better and like you're stuck? Have you experienced something really impactful that you want to process to create meaning and well-being? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner and wanting to find new ways to connect and heal past hurts? Relationships can be a place of our biggest wounds and also a source of our greatest healing. Maybe you're a new parent who is feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious. Or are you struggling in your relationship to food and your body? You deserve to have the full life you desire.
(385) 219-4422 View (385) 219-4422
Photo of Clarissa Gosney - Pinnacle Counseling & Psychological Testing - Utah, PsyD, Psychologist
Pinnacle Counseling & Psychological Testing - Utah
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
The mountain of anxiety can seem overwhelming. Imagine standing on the top of that mountain, looking down at all that you have overcome. From the Pinnacle, you have the most beautiful view. A view you would have never seen had you not taken that first step to seek counsel from someone who will walk beside you, encourage you, and guide you along the way.
The mountain of anxiety can seem overwhelming. Imagine standing on the top of that mountain, looking down at all that you have overcome. From the Pinnacle, you have the most beautiful view. A view you would have never seen had you not taken that first step to seek counsel from someone who will walk beside you, encourage you, and guide you along the way.
(385) 220-8917 View (385) 220-8917
Photo of Philip B Johnson - Philip B. Johnson, M.S., P.C., MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Philip B. Johnson, M.S., P.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been in private practice since 1981. I focus treatment on the needs of the client to help them come to terms with the issues they are struggling with and to help develop an understanding of their human potential. I also have a very strong background in divorce issues, custody problems, and helping the client to work through issues that they can address and change. Each individual is unique, with unique needs, and this is the focal point of treatment. I work well with both voluntary and court ordered clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been in private practice since 1981. I focus treatment on the needs of the client to help them come to terms with the issues they are struggling with and to help develop an understanding of their human potential. I also have a very strong background in divorce issues, custody problems, and helping the client to work through issues that they can address and change. Each individual is unique, with unique needs, and this is the focal point of treatment. I work well with both voluntary and court ordered clients.
(385) 236-0241 View (385) 236-0241
Photo of Celeste Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celeste Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
Life is often full of pain, difficulties, and challenges. As a therapist, my hope is to provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can work through, heal from, and cope with the inevitable pain of life. I work to help clients live a rich, full, and meaningful life despite the challenges they may be facing. My practice is centered on providing compassionate, strengths-based services to promote individual growth and success.
Life is often full of pain, difficulties, and challenges. As a therapist, my hope is to provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can work through, heal from, and cope with the inevitable pain of life. I work to help clients live a rich, full, and meaningful life despite the challenges they may be facing. My practice is centered on providing compassionate, strengths-based services to promote individual growth and success.
(385) 332-8521 View (385) 332-8521
Photo of Steven D. Lancaster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven D. Lancaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
I have been working with adolescents, adults, couples and families coping with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, and behavior problems for over 26 years in a variety of clinical settings. I like to tailor therapy approaches to fit the needs of the client that include CBT, ACT, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Family Systems treatment models. My specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma, couples counseling and adolescent wellness. I can help with blended family issues, parenting/co-parenting, relationships, marital issues, divorce, panic attacks, self-esteem and suicidal thoughts.
I have been working with adolescents, adults, couples and families coping with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, and behavior problems for over 26 years in a variety of clinical settings. I like to tailor therapy approaches to fit the needs of the client that include CBT, ACT, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Family Systems treatment models. My specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma, couples counseling and adolescent wellness. I can help with blended family issues, parenting/co-parenting, relationships, marital issues, divorce, panic attacks, self-esteem and suicidal thoughts.
(385) 209-0770 View (385) 209-0770
Photo of Carissa Rettig, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carissa Rettig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403  (Online Only)
Parenting is hard, especially when it feels like nothing is working—no wonder they say it takes a village to raise a child. You might feel overwhelmed, struggling to connect with your child, and wondering if you're doing everything right. Each day, tantrums, mealtime battles, and bedtime struggles leave you exhausted and defeated. You're not alone, and there's hope for a stronger, more peaceful connection with your child. Imagine a family life where you feel confident and empowered as a parent. As a CSW specializing in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), I offer practical, science-backed strategies to help you build a calm,
Parenting is hard, especially when it feels like nothing is working—no wonder they say it takes a village to raise a child. You might feel overwhelmed, struggling to connect with your child, and wondering if you're doing everything right. Each day, tantrums, mealtime battles, and bedtime struggles leave you exhausted and defeated. You're not alone, and there's hope for a stronger, more peaceful connection with your child. Imagine a family life where you feel confident and empowered as a parent. As a CSW specializing in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), I offer practical, science-backed strategies to help you build a calm,
(385) 485-6502 View (385) 485-6502
Photo of Suzanne Smith, CSW-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-I
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I have immediate openings! I understand how important it is to be seen, heard, and understood. Taking this step to get help takes a lot of courage, and I’m proud of you for taking it. I am committed to being here for your journey and keeping our space safe as we figure things out together. I have worked with a variety of clients in my career, ranging in age and gender identity. I have training to work with individuals, families, and couples. I value creating a safe and personalized space for each client. I typically see clients aged 8 years old and up.
I have immediate openings! I understand how important it is to be seen, heard, and understood. Taking this step to get help takes a lot of courage, and I’m proud of you for taking it. I am committed to being here for your journey and keeping our space safe as we figure things out together. I have worked with a variety of clients in my career, ranging in age and gender identity. I have training to work with individuals, families, and couples. I value creating a safe and personalized space for each client. I typically see clients aged 8 years old and up.
(385) 316-6146 View (385) 316-6146
Photo of Jayne Sprafke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jayne Sprafke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
Mental wellness is an important and rewarding component of a beautiful and fulfilling life. Through the process of self-examination and choosing new beliefs and behaviors, we gain insights and wisdom to thrive. I am honored to join, guide, and when necessary, challenge those willing to do this important work.
Mental wellness is an important and rewarding component of a beautiful and fulfilling life. Through the process of self-examination and choosing new beliefs and behaviors, we gain insights and wisdom to thrive. I am honored to join, guide, and when necessary, challenge those willing to do this important work.
(801) 614-2046 View (801) 614-2046
Photo of Rachel Nielsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I love helping a person become their best version of themselves. Most people seeking counseling feel defeated. My strategies help them find hope and to develop new approaches to help them become powerful people with tangible skills to overcome the challenges in their lives so they can have joy and fulfillment. Ideally a client is ready to try new approaches to their life, to accept responsiblity for the consequences of their current behaviors, and is willing to risk failing, as each success is usually preceded by a few failed attempts.
I love helping a person become their best version of themselves. Most people seeking counseling feel defeated. My strategies help them find hope and to develop new approaches to help them become powerful people with tangible skills to overcome the challenges in their lives so they can have joy and fulfillment. Ideally a client is ready to try new approaches to their life, to accept responsiblity for the consequences of their current behaviors, and is willing to risk failing, as each success is usually preceded by a few failed attempts.
(801) 316-3314 View (801) 316-3314
Photo of Kamie Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kamie Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
Hi I’m Kamie! I consider it an honor and privilege to witness someone’s healing journey. I am passionate about empowering people to live their best life! I believe all the best therapists have therapists themselves and strive to be teachable/open-minded. In my free time you will find me having dart wars with my four kids, playing my ukulele, or singing my heart out at karaoke.
Hi I’m Kamie! I consider it an honor and privilege to witness someone’s healing journey. I am passionate about empowering people to live their best life! I believe all the best therapists have therapists themselves and strive to be teachable/open-minded. In my free time you will find me having dart wars with my four kids, playing my ukulele, or singing my heart out at karaoke.
(385) 526-3703 View (385) 526-3703
Photo of Jodi Montgomery, CMHC, LPC, NCC, MA, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, CMHC, LPC, NCC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
I am a friendly, joyful, empathetic, sensitive, intuitive, person of faith, dedicated to helping people of all ages heal from trauma and overcome anxiety, fears, and struggles. I do this by listening attentively, enhancing awareness, offering encouragement, and empowering my clients with self-help techniques, confidence, and resilience.
I am a friendly, joyful, empathetic, sensitive, intuitive, person of faith, dedicated to helping people of all ages heal from trauma and overcome anxiety, fears, and struggles. I do this by listening attentively, enhancing awareness, offering encouragement, and empowering my clients with self-help techniques, confidence, and resilience.
(801) 316-8048 View (801) 316-8048
Photo of Preston Calcut, CMHC, Counselor
Preston Calcut
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
Hello! I'm so glad you're considering therapy, and I'm honored that you're thinking of working with me. As a therapist, I'm committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of criticism or rejection. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and collaborative – I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to support and guide you as you work towards your goals.
Hello! I'm so glad you're considering therapy, and I'm honored that you're thinking of working with me. As a therapist, I'm committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of criticism or rejection. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and collaborative – I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to support and guide you as you work towards your goals.
(385) 410-4283 View (385) 410-4283
Photo of Mitch Tocher, CMHC, Counselor
Mitch Tocher
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
Are you looking to improve the connection with your kids, partner, or other family members? Managing your mental health? Difficult emotions? Choices? Priorities? Or life changes? My mission as a therapist, is to help people tap into their strengths and navigate these difficulties. I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, social problems, romantic/family relationships, anger management, work stress or goals, managing crises, people on the Autism Spectrum (and their families), and substance recovery. I honestly see it as a privilege to be able to be working with you and seeing you achieve your goals!
Are you looking to improve the connection with your kids, partner, or other family members? Managing your mental health? Difficult emotions? Choices? Priorities? Or life changes? My mission as a therapist, is to help people tap into their strengths and navigate these difficulties. I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, social problems, romantic/family relationships, anger management, work stress or goals, managing crises, people on the Autism Spectrum (and their families), and substance recovery. I honestly see it as a privilege to be able to be working with you and seeing you achieve your goals!
(385) 442-5363 View (385) 442-5363
Photo of Marsha Nielson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsha Nielson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
Marsha worked for several years as a therapist for women and children who had been sexually abused. For the last ten years, Marsha has been a hospital social worker, primarily for the Labor & Delivery and Maternity units. This has given her a very unique understanding of the intersection of women’s physical and mental health. She has supported women and families through various aspects of care, including adoptions, surrogate births, infant loss, perinatal anxiety and depression, birth trauma, and antenatal hospitalizations. Marsha recently obtained her Perinatal Mental Health Certification and is EMDR trained.
Marsha worked for several years as a therapist for women and children who had been sexually abused. For the last ten years, Marsha has been a hospital social worker, primarily for the Labor & Delivery and Maternity units. This has given her a very unique understanding of the intersection of women’s physical and mental health. She has supported women and families through various aspects of care, including adoptions, surrogate births, infant loss, perinatal anxiety and depression, birth trauma, and antenatal hospitalizations. Marsha recently obtained her Perinatal Mental Health Certification and is EMDR trained.
(385) 644-9057 View (385) 644-9057
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 84403

80+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 84403 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
83% Trauma and PTSD
80% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
63% Coping Skills
62% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% SelectHealth
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 84403 see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 84403?

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.