Therapists in Amarillo, TX

Photo of Bekki McQuay, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Bekki McQuay, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LifeCoa
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101  (Online Only)
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."
(806) 478-0274 View (806) 478-0274
Photo of Carol Humbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Carol Humbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79109
I provide guidance for my clients to heal from the impact of stressful or hard life circumstances by forming healthy connections with themselves and others. I chose the name of my counseling practice intentionally for this reason. Most aspen trees grow in large clonal colonies, sharing the same root system. I believe that we as humans were wired for connection like the aspen tree. Sometimes our internal or external connections can be stressed, broken, wounded, or vacant. Counseling offers us a place to create healing space so that we can find greater integration with ourselves and others.
I provide guidance for my clients to heal from the impact of stressful or hard life circumstances by forming healthy connections with themselves and others. I chose the name of my counseling practice intentionally for this reason. Most aspen trees grow in large clonal colonies, sharing the same root system. I believe that we as humans were wired for connection like the aspen tree. Sometimes our internal or external connections can be stressed, broken, wounded, or vacant. Counseling offers us a place to create healing space so that we can find greater integration with ourselves and others.
(806) 602-8257 View (806) 602-8257
Photo of Vanessa Longoria-Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Vanessa Longoria-Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106  (Online Only)
Vanessa Longoria-Carter is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Vanessa has provided therapeutic services in a variety of settings including outpatient, intensive outpatient, community-based, home-based, and school-based. She has worked as a clinical supervisor to graduate-level interns providing individual, group, and family counseling in adult and child-focused facilities. During Vanessa's training she worked almost exclusively with military families and their surrounding communities.
Vanessa Longoria-Carter is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Vanessa has provided therapeutic services in a variety of settings including outpatient, intensive outpatient, community-based, home-based, and school-based. She has worked as a clinical supervisor to graduate-level interns providing individual, group, and family counseling in adult and child-focused facilities. During Vanessa's training she worked almost exclusively with military families and their surrounding communities.
(619) 432-3576 View (619) 432-3576
Photo of Cassie Lyon, Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Cassie Lyon
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
Taking new clients - Immediate openings! We all go through challenging times and it can be hard to know where to start. Difficulties, hardships, and stress are a part of life. Regardless of your life's journey and obstacles, I can help. Counseling is a process we will explore and grow together! I believe in people’s ability to heal and progress after difficult experiences.
Taking new clients - Immediate openings! We all go through challenging times and it can be hard to know where to start. Difficulties, hardships, and stress are a part of life. Regardless of your life's journey and obstacles, I can help. Counseling is a process we will explore and grow together! I believe in people’s ability to heal and progress after difficult experiences.
(806) 513-0987 View (806) 513-0987
Photo of Lisa Tidwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Lisa Tidwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79124  (Online Only)
Are the struggles and stressors of life getting to you? Day to day life can be hard, but you can do hard things! My goal is to help you navigate through difficulties in life, while providing a non-judgemental compassionate environment to feel heard, understood, and accepted. It would be my privilege to partner with you to better understand what you're feeling and how you can move towards your goals in life. A lot of us struggle with things in life that are out of our control.
Are the struggles and stressors of life getting to you? Day to day life can be hard, but you can do hard things! My goal is to help you navigate through difficulties in life, while providing a non-judgemental compassionate environment to feel heard, understood, and accepted. It would be my privilege to partner with you to better understand what you're feeling and how you can move towards your goals in life. A lot of us struggle with things in life that are out of our control.
(806) 591-4101 View (806) 591-4101
Photo of Chelsea LaRee Morrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Chelsea LaRee Morrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
At times life can feel challenging and overwhelming. It may be hard to see outside of your current stressors which may be continuously wearing you down over time. My goal is to help you pull away from current barriers which are preventing you from moving forward. I am here to help you in your journey to healing. Together, we will establish a plan for treatment that addresses your issues and concerns. My therapeutic practice serves adults, adolescents, children, marriages, families and other types of relationships.
At times life can feel challenging and overwhelming. It may be hard to see outside of your current stressors which may be continuously wearing you down over time. My goal is to help you pull away from current barriers which are preventing you from moving forward. I am here to help you in your journey to healing. Together, we will establish a plan for treatment that addresses your issues and concerns. My therapeutic practice serves adults, adolescents, children, marriages, families and other types of relationships.
(806) 884-4593 View (806) 884-4593
Photo of John David Pack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
John David Pack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
I know what it's like to struggle with addiction. The crippling anxiety, the hopeless depression, and the shame and guilt that accompany substance use. If you are struggling with Substance use Disorder and everything that comes with it, let me help you find your way to recovery. There are many different options and ways person can find recovery. Please allow me to walk the road to recovery and freedom with you. Let me support you as you deal with the past and develop a solid foundation for the future. Change your Direction. Change your Life!
I know what it's like to struggle with addiction. The crippling anxiety, the hopeless depression, and the shame and guilt that accompany substance use. If you are struggling with Substance use Disorder and everything that comes with it, let me help you find your way to recovery. There are many different options and ways person can find recovery. Please allow me to walk the road to recovery and freedom with you. Let me support you as you deal with the past and develop a solid foundation for the future. Change your Direction. Change your Life!
(806) 994-4540 View (806) 994-4540
Photo of Amarillo Child & Family Counseling, Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Amarillo Child & Family Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
At Amarillo Child & Family Counseling, we offer help for: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Developmental Disorders (Asperger's/Autism); Depression & anxiety; Obsessions & compulsions; Stealing, lying, substance abuse & runaway; Poor social skills; Bed-wetting & self-soiling; Marital & relationship problems; Learning disabilities; Children with Special Needs; Academic problems; Adjustment to divorce, death & family crises; Truancy & poor school performance; Anger & impulse control problems; Tantrums, fighting & aggression; Child & adult victims of abuse and neglect; Low self-esteem & poor self-concept.
At Amarillo Child & Family Counseling, we offer help for: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Developmental Disorders (Asperger's/Autism); Depression & anxiety; Obsessions & compulsions; Stealing, lying, substance abuse & runaway; Poor social skills; Bed-wetting & self-soiling; Marital & relationship problems; Learning disabilities; Children with Special Needs; Academic problems; Adjustment to divorce, death & family crises; Truancy & poor school performance; Anger & impulse control problems; Tantrums, fighting & aggression; Child & adult victims of abuse and neglect; Low self-esteem & poor self-concept.
(806) 410-0976 View (806) 410-0976
Photo of Karla Stovall Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Karla Stovall Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
Life can feel like a jungle when we have problems that are holding us down. There is not a single person that has lived very long that has not experienced some issue that seems to control their life. If this is where you are today, know that the support you will receive through therapy can help. While you cannot go back and change the past, you can -- through a therapy plan that is designed specifically for you-- develop a better understanding of the past events, enabling you to resolve challenges in you life and approach life with a clear focus.
Life can feel like a jungle when we have problems that are holding us down. There is not a single person that has lived very long that has not experienced some issue that seems to control their life. If this is where you are today, know that the support you will receive through therapy can help. While you cannot go back and change the past, you can -- through a therapy plan that is designed specifically for you-- develop a better understanding of the past events, enabling you to resolve challenges in you life and approach life with a clear focus.
(806) 853-6259 View (806) 853-6259
Photo of Dr. Whitney N Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Dr. Whitney N Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79124
You do not have to live a life plagued by depression, anxiety, and mismanaged stress. Whether you have a history of trauma, are going through a phase of life transition, or struggling in your relationships, there is hope.
You do not have to live a life plagued by depression, anxiety, and mismanaged stress. Whether you have a history of trauma, are going through a phase of life transition, or struggling in your relationships, there is hope.
(806) 542-3896 View (806) 542-3896
Photo of EMDR Therapist at Headway - Rhonda Aragon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
EMDR Therapist at Headway - Rhonda Aragon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79107  (Online Only)
Looking for someone to listen to you without judgement? My experience has allowed me to support my clients to use their history as a steppingstone to a new reality. How did you develop your belief system to create your current reality? Together we identify those beliefs to create new ones that assist in creating a healthier and happier life style. Together we can explore relationships, separations, career choices, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief and loss, lack of confidence, poor self-esteem, sexual abuse, Early childhood trauma. Together we can tackle and change your current life path!
Looking for someone to listen to you without judgement? My experience has allowed me to support my clients to use their history as a steppingstone to a new reality. How did you develop your belief system to create your current reality? Together we identify those beliefs to create new ones that assist in creating a healthier and happier life style. Together we can explore relationships, separations, career choices, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief and loss, lack of confidence, poor self-esteem, sexual abuse, Early childhood trauma. Together we can tackle and change your current life path!
(806) 607-6164 View (806) 607-6164
Photo of Monica Bellar LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Monica Bellar LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a holistic perspective to counseling. I believe as humans we can always reach beyond our pain or limitations and can expand our understanding of life experiences to be healthier than we are today. I have 17 years of experience working with children and adolescents dealing with a multitude of issues including anxiety and trauma. I have experience working with blended families and divorce situations. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist through the National Institute for Trauma & Loss In Children.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a holistic perspective to counseling. I believe as humans we can always reach beyond our pain or limitations and can expand our understanding of life experiences to be healthier than we are today. I have 17 years of experience working with children and adolescents dealing with a multitude of issues including anxiety and trauma. I have experience working with blended families and divorce situations. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist through the National Institute for Trauma & Loss In Children.
(806) 731-4615 View (806) 731-4615
Photo of Joshua Warnica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Joshua Warnica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79102  (Online Only)
Everyone needs therapy. Some of us just choose to distract ourselves with the day-to-day madness. The problem with this is that life will eventually slow you down and you are unable to use those distractions. This is typically when you may feel hit hard by anxiety, panic, and depression. We will start with coping skills and mindfulness but I am here for the long haul. I am a damn good therapist, and I want to help you truly heal.
Everyone needs therapy. Some of us just choose to distract ourselves with the day-to-day madness. The problem with this is that life will eventually slow you down and you are unable to use those distractions. This is typically when you may feel hit hard by anxiety, panic, and depression. We will start with coping skills and mindfulness but I am here for the long haul. I am a damn good therapist, and I want to help you truly heal.
(806) 615-2755 View (806) 615-2755
Photo of Jonathan McLoughlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Jonathan McLoughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Waitlist for new clients
Waiting list for new clients. Counseling can provide support and skills needed to grow and heal. My goal is to work together to help you accomplish your goals and address your struggles. Each client is an individual person, and I base treatment on your unique needs, goals, and presenting problem. I counsel children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
Waiting list for new clients. Counseling can provide support and skills needed to grow and heal. My goal is to work together to help you accomplish your goals and address your struggles. Each client is an individual person, and I base treatment on your unique needs, goals, and presenting problem. I counsel children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
(806) 203-5992 View (806) 203-5992
Photo of Karen Davis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Karen Davis, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
Hi. I am Karen, and I have been a therapist in the Amarillo area for 20 years. I have worked with people in all phases of their lives as they navigate difficult, troublesome times. I utilize an eclectic style of therapy in an attempt to meet people where they are on their journey. Some of the disciplines that I have found to be most helpful for those facing challenging situations are Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindful techniques and Evidence based Trauma Therapies. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma. I welcome any questions you might have regarding therapy. Feel free to call or text.
Hi. I am Karen, and I have been a therapist in the Amarillo area for 20 years. I have worked with people in all phases of their lives as they navigate difficult, troublesome times. I utilize an eclectic style of therapy in an attempt to meet people where they are on their journey. Some of the disciplines that I have found to be most helpful for those facing challenging situations are Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindful techniques and Evidence based Trauma Therapies. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma. I welcome any questions you might have regarding therapy. Feel free to call or text.
(806) 553-6209 View (806) 553-6209
Photo of Dakota Lippon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Dakota Lippon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79124
Life is tough, but so are YOU! My goal is to help you navigate through difficulties in life, while providing a non-judgemental compassionate environment to feel heard, understood, and accepted. It's my honor and privilege to partner with you to better understand what you're feeling, where the feeling originated from, and how you can move forward in life. A lot of us struggle with things in life that are out of our control. We do have control over our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Life is tough, but so are YOU! My goal is to help you navigate through difficulties in life, while providing a non-judgemental compassionate environment to feel heard, understood, and accepted. It's my honor and privilege to partner with you to better understand what you're feeling, where the feeling originated from, and how you can move forward in life. A lot of us struggle with things in life that are out of our control. We do have control over our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
(806) 602-9878 View (806) 602-9878
Photo of Lotus Counseling & Recovery Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Lotus Counseling & Recovery Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RSPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and the storms of life rage. Having a counselor who can provide tools necessary to find a sense of peace and acceptance is so invaluable. Whether you are needing help with anxiety, depression, self esteem and self confidence, stress, guilt/shame, past hurts, relationship issues, or substance use disorders, I use a holistic approach to healing and personal growth and can help you find healthy ways to cope and transform your life. Recovery is possible for everyone and I hope to help you find your pathway.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and the storms of life rage. Having a counselor who can provide tools necessary to find a sense of peace and acceptance is so invaluable. Whether you are needing help with anxiety, depression, self esteem and self confidence, stress, guilt/shame, past hurts, relationship issues, or substance use disorders, I use a holistic approach to healing and personal growth and can help you find healthy ways to cope and transform your life. Recovery is possible for everyone and I hope to help you find your pathway.
(806) 717-2327 View (806) 717-2327
Photo of James Kirby Sutterfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
James Kirby Sutterfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79120  (Online Only)
You're at a pivotal moment, seeking clarity in life's tumult. Facing anxiety, addiction, or relationship woes, you aspire for a life where self-esteem thrives and connections deepen. Fueled by the desire for genuine happiness and self-understanding, this isn't just a search for answers but a transformative journey. Ready to face these challenges with resilience, you're on a path to unlock your potential, embracing self-discovery and meaningful relationships, striving for a fulfilling existence that aligns with your deepest aspirations. You're dedicated to growth, embracing this journey with an open heart and focus.
You're at a pivotal moment, seeking clarity in life's tumult. Facing anxiety, addiction, or relationship woes, you aspire for a life where self-esteem thrives and connections deepen. Fueled by the desire for genuine happiness and self-understanding, this isn't just a search for answers but a transformative journey. Ready to face these challenges with resilience, you're on a path to unlock your potential, embracing self-discovery and meaningful relationships, striving for a fulfilling existence that aligns with your deepest aspirations. You're dedicated to growth, embracing this journey with an open heart and focus.
(806) 230-5451 View (806) 230-5451
Photo of Kayle Street Lpc-Associate Supervised By Sharyn Delgado-Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Amarillo, TX
Kayle Street Lpc-Associate Supervised By Sharyn Delgado-Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
Immediate openings, including weekends and evenings! Acknowledging mental health is not a personal failure. It is my goal to utilize therapeutic techniques based on the client's presenting struggle. I do not believe counseling is a one size fits all approach. I implement a variety of talk, art, sand, play, and baking techniques to create a safe environment to promote comfortability and ease throughout the therapeutic process. It is my goal to stay true to strengths' and focus on the current thought patterns to help you navigate forward.
Immediate openings, including weekends and evenings! Acknowledging mental health is not a personal failure. It is my goal to utilize therapeutic techniques based on the client's presenting struggle. I do not believe counseling is a one size fits all approach. I implement a variety of talk, art, sand, play, and baking techniques to create a safe environment to promote comfortability and ease throughout the therapeutic process. It is my goal to stay true to strengths' and focus on the current thought patterns to help you navigate forward.
(806) 304-7894 View (806) 304-7894
Photo of Leticia Sanchez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Leticia Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
I am a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families of all ages who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, family conflicts, domestic violence, substance use/misuse and/or a variety of related mental health concerns. I am delighted to be able to help you find or renew hope, strengths, and/or to develop reachable goals which will enable you to fulfill your full potential. My goal is to support my clients through life's stresses and help them heal, resolve, and manage the issues that may seem impossible to overcome.
I am a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families of all ages who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, family conflicts, domestic violence, substance use/misuse and/or a variety of related mental health concerns. I am delighted to be able to help you find or renew hope, strengths, and/or to develop reachable goals which will enable you to fulfill your full potential. My goal is to support my clients through life's stresses and help them heal, resolve, and manage the issues that may seem impossible to overcome.
(806) 513-5219 View (806) 513-5219

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Amarillo, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Amarillo, TX who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
79% Self Esteem
76% Coping Skills
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Relationship Issues
72% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Amarillo, TX see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Amarillo?

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.