Photo of Edmore Mangena, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Edmore Mangena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Edmore (Ed) Mangena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska. I have practiced in Alaska since 2006 and I have worked with all ages, children and families, individuals, and couples. I use an integrated approach to therapy that is anchored in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I use person centered therapy for its emphasis on relationship and existential therapy for its supportive approach. I believe providing clients with a supportive non-judgmental space enables them to workout their issues to resolution or to clarity.
My name is Edmore (Ed) Mangena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska. I have practiced in Alaska since 2006 and I have worked with all ages, children and families, individuals, and couples. I use an integrated approach to therapy that is anchored in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I use person centered therapy for its emphasis on relationship and existential therapy for its supportive approach. I believe providing clients with a supportive non-judgmental space enables them to workout their issues to resolution or to clarity.
(855) 916-5569 View (855) 916-5569
Photo of Mary E Kuepper, LPC-S, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary E Kuepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
I am passionate about working with families. Whether dealing with behavioral issues in children, depressed or anxious teens, frustrated and concerned parents, or overwhelmed Mama's, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to build a better life. Through individual, family or child therapy sessions, I help people gain skills to better manage emotions, cope with challenging feelings, and build better relationships. My style is warm, non judgmental and down to earth, with a healthy dose of humor.
I am passionate about working with families. Whether dealing with behavioral issues in children, depressed or anxious teens, frustrated and concerned parents, or overwhelmed Mama's, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to build a better life. Through individual, family or child therapy sessions, I help people gain skills to better manage emotions, cope with challenging feelings, and build better relationships. My style is warm, non judgmental and down to earth, with a healthy dose of humor.
(844) 322-6876 View (844) 322-6876
Photo of Kelly L Jordan, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly L Jordan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
I am passionate about working with women and teens. No one escapes life without experiencing trauma of some kind, and it often begins early. Trauma has the power to pervert our sense of self, our emotions, and our beliefs about the world around us. It can leave us feeling worthless, helpless, and full of shame. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients recognize and correct their cognitive distortions. I provide a safe, empathetic, and judgement-free environment for individuals seeking help. I will work with you to recognize negative coping mechanisms and replace them with healthy coping skills.
I am passionate about working with women and teens. No one escapes life without experiencing trauma of some kind, and it often begins early. Trauma has the power to pervert our sense of self, our emotions, and our beliefs about the world around us. It can leave us feeling worthless, helpless, and full of shame. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients recognize and correct their cognitive distortions. I provide a safe, empathetic, and judgement-free environment for individuals seeking help. I will work with you to recognize negative coping mechanisms and replace them with healthy coping skills.
(866) 955-5067 View (866) 955-5067
Photo of Morgan Yaskus - Karuna Counseling, LLC Morgan Yaskus, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karuna Counseling, LLC Morgan Yaskus
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Adolescence to early adulthood can be a really difficult time to navigate. It’s where we begin the path of self-discovery, establish our personal identities, form relationships, and look to the future. While these can all be very exciting things, they are often also quite challenging and accompanied by stress, conflict, strained relationships, and a whole lot of change. Through a person-centered and collaborative approach, I strive to help individuals strengthen their core beliefs, self-worth, and confidence within themselves.
Adolescence to early adulthood can be a really difficult time to navigate. It’s where we begin the path of self-discovery, establish our personal identities, form relationships, and look to the future. While these can all be very exciting things, they are often also quite challenging and accompanied by stress, conflict, strained relationships, and a whole lot of change. Through a person-centered and collaborative approach, I strive to help individuals strengthen their core beliefs, self-worth, and confidence within themselves.
(844) 786-2180 View (844) 786-2180
Photo of Clifton Young - Changing Seasons Counseling, MA, LPC, CDCII, Counselor
Changing Seasons Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC, CDCII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
Life can be seen as a continual process of change. Changing Seasons is dedicated to helping clients navigate through all of life's challenges. Regardless of the challenges, everyone needs relationships that encourage and support us in our "Seasons of journey".
Life can be seen as a continual process of change. Changing Seasons is dedicated to helping clients navigate through all of life's challenges. Regardless of the challenges, everyone needs relationships that encourage and support us in our "Seasons of journey".
(907) 795-3860 View (907) 795-3860
Photo of Lindsey Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
This last year has been so draining and you're just trying to stay afloat. Your anxiety keeps telling you that you have a million things that are left to get accomplished, and your depression is right there to tag in, making you feel terrible for not getting anything done on your list. You are trying to balance difficult co-workers, keeping (and maintaining) friendships, juggling 4 different schedules, and trying to keep your house from looking like a bomb went off. You smile through the day being a great pretender, only to be alone with your thoughts at night and feeling like you’re failing at adulting.
This last year has been so draining and you're just trying to stay afloat. Your anxiety keeps telling you that you have a million things that are left to get accomplished, and your depression is right there to tag in, making you feel terrible for not getting anything done on your list. You are trying to balance difficult co-workers, keeping (and maintaining) friendships, juggling 4 different schedules, and trying to keep your house from looking like a bomb went off. You smile through the day being a great pretender, only to be alone with your thoughts at night and feeling like you’re failing at adulting.
(828) 319-2863 View (828) 319-2863
Photo of Courtney Beebe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Beebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
Have you experienced trauma; maybe as a child, military, first responder, or crazy life circumstances in your adulthood? Do you struggle in your communications with others and feel no one hears you? Do you struggle feeling connected with others, feeling like you have no balance in your life, or feel your life just isn't what it used to be? Does anxious emotions and/or intense sadness get in the way of who you want to be? Do you long to be that person you used to be? Together, we will explore how things have impacted your life and build a new path for you. We can discover who you are without fear.
Have you experienced trauma; maybe as a child, military, first responder, or crazy life circumstances in your adulthood? Do you struggle in your communications with others and feel no one hears you? Do you struggle feeling connected with others, feeling like you have no balance in your life, or feel your life just isn't what it used to be? Does anxious emotions and/or intense sadness get in the way of who you want to be? Do you long to be that person you used to be? Together, we will explore how things have impacted your life and build a new path for you. We can discover who you are without fear.
(844) 748-9579 View (844) 748-9579
Photo of Heather Dominguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Dominguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Heather Dominguez, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Alaska. I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma. I enjoy very much working with couples who are having difficulties in their relationships. I have been a therapist for 26 years and have many tools in my toolbox to work with. I have the Old Tried and True Along with quite a few new tools that I have seen a great deal of success with as well. I would love to sit down with you and have a virtual cup of coffee.
Hello, I am Heather Dominguez, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Alaska. I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma. I enjoy very much working with couples who are having difficulties in their relationships. I have been a therapist for 26 years and have many tools in my toolbox to work with. I have the Old Tried and True Along with quite a few new tools that I have seen a great deal of success with as well. I would love to sit down with you and have a virtual cup of coffee.
(866) 785-9944 View (866) 785-9944
Photo of Anne Wells, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping individuals navigate anxiety disorders, trauma, and PTSD, using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can work together to build resilience, foster healing, and empower you to take meaningful steps toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping individuals navigate anxiety disorders, trauma, and PTSD, using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can work together to build resilience, foster healing, and empower you to take meaningful steps toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(855) 597-1966 View (855) 597-1966
Photo of Khuyen Luu, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Khuyen Luu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I am Khuyen Luu, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I apply a holistic approach to support you in the journey from where you are to where you want to be. The focus of my practice is helping all of my clients to be free from their negative past experiences to live their life with their full potentials. with a Client-Centered approach, I meet you where you are and work with you to create therapeutic goals that work for you. I utilize Reality therapy, EMDR (Eyes Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, IFS (Internal Family System) in my practice.
Hi, I am Khuyen Luu, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I apply a holistic approach to support you in the journey from where you are to where you want to be. The focus of my practice is helping all of my clients to be free from their negative past experiences to live their life with their full potentials. with a Client-Centered approach, I meet you where you are and work with you to create therapeutic goals that work for you. I utilize Reality therapy, EMDR (Eyes Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, IFS (Internal Family System) in my practice.
(855) 794-1140 View (855) 794-1140
Photo of Stephanie Turner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Taking the step to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I'm glad you are here. My goal is to provide a safe space for self-exploration, change, and healing. I work with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with a variety of challenges, including painful feelings, emotional numbness, undesired behaviors, unhelpful thinking, mood challenges, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, interpersonal conflict, life changes, and ongoing stress. My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, compassionate, collaborative, and empowering.
Taking the step to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I'm glad you are here. My goal is to provide a safe space for self-exploration, change, and healing. I work with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with a variety of challenges, including painful feelings, emotional numbness, undesired behaviors, unhelpful thinking, mood challenges, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, interpersonal conflict, life changes, and ongoing stress. My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, compassionate, collaborative, and empowering.
(907) 202-7233 View (907) 202-7233
Photo of Elizabeth Dufour, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Dufour
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Elizabeth Dufour, LPC and I am a person-centered counselor in the state of Alaska. I believe that each person has within themselves the capacity to change, heal, grow, and live up to their full potential. In today's world it is all too common to struggle with mental health problems alone and it is my passion to help change that.​
My name is Elizabeth Dufour, LPC and I am a person-centered counselor in the state of Alaska. I believe that each person has within themselves the capacity to change, heal, grow, and live up to their full potential. In today's world it is all too common to struggle with mental health problems alone and it is my passion to help change that.​
(844) 779-9643 View (844) 779-9643
Photo of Chris Gilbert, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Gilbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions can deeply impact your well-being and relationships. You might feel trapped by persistent worry, sadness, or uncertainty about what lies ahead. These experiences can disrupt your daily life, making it hard to find joy and balance. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges, offering support and guidance. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, build resilience, and work towards a more fulfilling and hopeful future.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions can deeply impact your well-being and relationships. You might feel trapped by persistent worry, sadness, or uncertainty about what lies ahead. These experiences can disrupt your daily life, making it hard to find joy and balance. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges, offering support and guidance. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, build resilience, and work towards a more fulfilling and hopeful future.
(844) 825-0038 View (844) 825-0038
Photo of Veronica Renee Maldonado, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Renee Maldonado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Waitlist for new clients
Veronica Maldonado is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Wasilla, Alaska, who offers non-traditional hours, works with individuals across the lifespan, with a focus on trauma and PTSD. Many of her clients struggle to feel connected in their relationships or at peace in their lives. Veronica is particularly sensitive to clients facing negative responses to traumatic life experiences, moments of transition, like combat, emergency responders chronic exposure, death, suicide, a move to the city, job loss, or breakup, when the delicate balance can seem to tremble, and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt can emerge.
Veronica Maldonado is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Wasilla, Alaska, who offers non-traditional hours, works with individuals across the lifespan, with a focus on trauma and PTSD. Many of her clients struggle to feel connected in their relationships or at peace in their lives. Veronica is particularly sensitive to clients facing negative responses to traumatic life experiences, moments of transition, like combat, emergency responders chronic exposure, death, suicide, a move to the city, job loss, or breakup, when the delicate balance can seem to tremble, and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt can emerge.
(907) 376-3530 View (907) 376-3530
Photo of John Sundeen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Sundeen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is John Sundeen, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ketchikan, AK and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with teens and adults specializing in anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship issues, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness to help my clients find resolution to their problems and build the skills necessary to handle future challenges.
My name is John Sundeen, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ketchikan, AK and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with teens and adults specializing in anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship issues, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness to help my clients find resolution to their problems and build the skills necessary to handle future challenges.
(844) 755-3043 View (844) 755-3043
Photo of Peggy Bissing - Peggy Bissing LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Bissing LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Virtual Sessions only - I specialize in assisting adult survivors of trauma, with experience supporting first responders, crime victims, and recovering addicts. My services include therapeutic guidance for victims of narcissistic abuse, adult children of alcoholics, and first responders, as well as support for veterans and those seeking outpatient treatment for addictions. My ultimate goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and productive life.
Virtual Sessions only - I specialize in assisting adult survivors of trauma, with experience supporting first responders, crime victims, and recovering addicts. My services include therapeutic guidance for victims of narcissistic abuse, adult children of alcoholics, and first responders, as well as support for veterans and those seeking outpatient treatment for addictions. My ultimate goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and productive life.
(907) 759-8239 View (907) 759-8239
Photo of Headlight Wasilla - Headlight / Wasilla
Headlight / Wasilla
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Headlight is proud to offer Wasilla, AK a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Wasilla, AK a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
(833) 276-5324 View (833) 276-5324
Photo of Dr. Rebecca L Sparkman, PhD, EAGLA, EMDR, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Rebecca L Sparkman
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, EAGLA, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
It is my privilege and passion to walk alongside those who are healing from trauma, complex trauma, abuse, anxiety and depression. Grief and loss, grappling with spiritual, personal identity & various complex issues are the result of traumatic experiences. I firmly believe respectful, culturally competent and trauma informed approaches create space for you to become empowered to not just survive, but thrive! It is my desire that each individual who walks through my doors feels that all parts of them are welcome and treated with dignity. If you are ready to see change happen, I am sure we will make a great team.
It is my privilege and passion to walk alongside those who are healing from trauma, complex trauma, abuse, anxiety and depression. Grief and loss, grappling with spiritual, personal identity & various complex issues are the result of traumatic experiences. I firmly believe respectful, culturally competent and trauma informed approaches create space for you to become empowered to not just survive, but thrive! It is my desire that each individual who walks through my doors feels that all parts of them are welcome and treated with dignity. If you are ready to see change happen, I am sure we will make a great team.
(907) 521-8504 View (907) 521-8504
Photo of Brittany Oaks - Seasons of Life Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seasons of Life Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
We have therapists with immediate openings who offer free consultations! Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
We have therapists with immediate openings who offer free consultations! Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(833) 432-6990 View (833) 432-6990
Photo of Esther Rayah, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Esther Rayah
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
I would feel honored to support you or your child's healing journey! I help clients heal from the haunting effects of childhood trauma and abuse. Childhood trauma unfairly leaves people grappling in isolation with: depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, PTSD, codependency, identity issues, relationship problems, and hopelessness to the point of suicidal ideation. Sadly, growing older does not equal outgrowing these painful patterns. Unless we find help, we tend to repeat patterns and treat ourselves the way caregivers did. I help clients break free from their past into their true identity with a lasting sense of worth and peace.
I would feel honored to support you or your child's healing journey! I help clients heal from the haunting effects of childhood trauma and abuse. Childhood trauma unfairly leaves people grappling in isolation with: depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, PTSD, codependency, identity issues, relationship problems, and hopelessness to the point of suicidal ideation. Sadly, growing older does not equal outgrowing these painful patterns. Unless we find help, we tend to repeat patterns and treat ourselves the way caregivers did. I help clients break free from their past into their true identity with a lasting sense of worth and peace.
(877) 447-9661 View (877) 447-9661
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 99654

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 99654 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
67% Relationship Issues
64% Grief
63% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

72% Aetna
62% BlueCross and BlueShield
55% Premera Blue Cross

How Therapists in 99654 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 99654?

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.