Therapists in Denver, CO

View neighborhoods in Denver
Photo of Lou Ashcraft, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lou Ashcraft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
I know finding the right fit for a therapist can be a bit like shopping for a sofa: try a bunch before finding the one that makes you want to rest and stay a while. I’ll offer a few details that might make this process feel a little more directive. I am a licensed professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist candidate. My work is relational at its core, whether I am working with individuals, or larger units. Those who seem to get the most out of working with me are in touch with their internal emotional landscapes and interested in being active participants in their healing.
I know finding the right fit for a therapist can be a bit like shopping for a sofa: try a bunch before finding the one that makes you want to rest and stay a while. I’ll offer a few details that might make this process feel a little more directive. I am a licensed professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist candidate. My work is relational at its core, whether I am working with individuals, or larger units. Those who seem to get the most out of working with me are in touch with their internal emotional landscapes and interested in being active participants in their healing.
(720) 704-4067 View (720) 704-4067
Photo of Jenica Loether, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Jenica Loether
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed School Counselor with 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents facing anxiety, depression and executive functioning skills. I am committed to helping individuals and couples learn how to build healthier relationships with themselves and each other.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed School Counselor with 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents facing anxiety, depression and executive functioning skills. I am committed to helping individuals and couples learn how to build healthier relationships with themselves and each other.
(720) 263-9922 View (720) 263-9922
Photo of Dan Chatman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Dan Chatman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Seeing a therapist is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and the people in your life. In therapy, we will focus on what YOU need: for example, working on anger, navigating a difficult relationship, or working through trauma so you can get back to focusing on your life. And if you're not sure what you need, that's okay...we'll figure that out together.
Seeing a therapist is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and the people in your life. In therapy, we will focus on what YOU need: for example, working on anger, navigating a difficult relationship, or working through trauma so you can get back to focusing on your life. And if you're not sure what you need, that's okay...we'll figure that out together.
(720) 419-1284 View (720) 419-1284
Photo of Emily Olsen, Counselor in Denver, CO
Emily Olsen
Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
As a deep-feeler, seeker, highly-sensitive person (HSP) or adult child of emotionally immature parents, I'm sure you're not new to the world of therapy and personal development. You're not just looking for any therapist or modality, you're looking for the RIGHT person and process that can help you to discover previously unknown truths about yourself, process developmental & attachment wounds, shift inherited relational patterns, and accelerate your personal development and spiritual growth.
As a deep-feeler, seeker, highly-sensitive person (HSP) or adult child of emotionally immature parents, I'm sure you're not new to the world of therapy and personal development. You're not just looking for any therapist or modality, you're looking for the RIGHT person and process that can help you to discover previously unknown truths about yourself, process developmental & attachment wounds, shift inherited relational patterns, and accelerate your personal development and spiritual growth.
(720) 689-4805 View (720) 689-4805
Photo of Tara Lisa Cameron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Tara Lisa Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
Life throws us challenges, big and small. And sometimes we need someone to help us along the way. Are you someone who is struggling with depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, parenting a child with higher needs, fertility issues, or low self-esteem/self-worth? Maybe you're struggling in your marriage/relationship or relationships in general. Or maybe you're going through a life transition that isn't what you expected and/or is challenging. Either way, you deserve brighter days and a quality of life that you are okay with.
Life throws us challenges, big and small. And sometimes we need someone to help us along the way. Are you someone who is struggling with depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, parenting a child with higher needs, fertility issues, or low self-esteem/self-worth? Maybe you're struggling in your marriage/relationship or relationships in general. Or maybe you're going through a life transition that isn't what you expected and/or is challenging. Either way, you deserve brighter days and a quality of life that you are okay with.
(720) 713-7952 View (720) 713-7952
Photo of Christopher White, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Christopher White
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80230
I hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. In the past 12 years I have worked as a therapist in community mental health, private practice, college counseling, inpatient, and residential settings. Areas of interest and specialization include managing anxiety and mood dysregulation, working with the veteran population (both the transition from military to civilian life, and the management of PTSD-related symptoms), coping with grief and loss, addressing issues related to sexual orientation and the coming-out process, and supporting individuals who are struggling to navigate mid-life and later adulthood.
I hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. In the past 12 years I have worked as a therapist in community mental health, private practice, college counseling, inpatient, and residential settings. Areas of interest and specialization include managing anxiety and mood dysregulation, working with the veteran population (both the transition from military to civilian life, and the management of PTSD-related symptoms), coping with grief and loss, addressing issues related to sexual orientation and the coming-out process, and supporting individuals who are struggling to navigate mid-life and later adulthood.
(720) 912-9377 View (720) 912-9377
Photo of Toni Moran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Toni Moran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I want to help you create a happier life! Together we can navigate the feelings and emotions (anxiety, depression, fear) that have been weighing on you, and release past experiences that have accumulated over time. We will shift old thought patterns through self-awareness practices so you can show up consistently, with yourself and others. I will provide tools that support you in feeling more fulfilled and physically at ease. My goal is to help you make sense of why you feel the way you do. In doing so, we will bring deeper meaning and connection to your life. Therapy is a healthy place to begin building the life you want!
I want to help you create a happier life! Together we can navigate the feelings and emotions (anxiety, depression, fear) that have been weighing on you, and release past experiences that have accumulated over time. We will shift old thought patterns through self-awareness practices so you can show up consistently, with yourself and others. I will provide tools that support you in feeling more fulfilled and physically at ease. My goal is to help you make sense of why you feel the way you do. In doing so, we will bring deeper meaning and connection to your life. Therapy is a healthy place to begin building the life you want!
(720) 605-6960 View (720) 605-6960
Photo of Britt Mahrer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Britt Mahrer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
I deeply respect the courage it takes to start therapy and am committed to providing an experience that resonates with you. ​ I believe change comes from authenticity and vulnerability, from deepening our understanding of how we became who we are. My sessions are safe and non-judgmental, all lifestyle choices are welcome. Together, we will explore ways to proactively approach your goals and makes changes to what holds you back. When you enter into my room, you are no longer alone. For Supervision, visit www.coloradocounselingsupervision.com.
I deeply respect the courage it takes to start therapy and am committed to providing an experience that resonates with you. ​ I believe change comes from authenticity and vulnerability, from deepening our understanding of how we became who we are. My sessions are safe and non-judgmental, all lifestyle choices are welcome. Together, we will explore ways to proactively approach your goals and makes changes to what holds you back. When you enter into my room, you are no longer alone. For Supervision, visit www.coloradocounselingsupervision.com.
(720) 594-4103 View (720) 594-4103
Photo of Anna Pendleton in Denver, CO
Anna Pendleton
MA, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I support individuals who desire to heal from trauma, experience relief from anxiety, explore patterns in relationships, navigate life transitions, and cultivate greater self-acceptance. I also support couples who are seeking more closeness and connection.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I support individuals who desire to heal from trauma, experience relief from anxiety, explore patterns in relationships, navigate life transitions, and cultivate greater self-acceptance. I also support couples who are seeking more closeness and connection.
(720) 590-6081 View (720) 590-6081
Photo of Lumen Therapy Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Lumen Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
You deserve a bright and radiant life, and our team of highly trained and compassionate therapists can help you achieve that goal. In physics, lumens measure the brightness generated by a light source. In our therapy practice, we see moments of insight and clarity as lumens of personal and relational growth. We know reaching out to a therapist can feel scary, but it’s an important step in recognizing the value of your own heart and life experience. Our therapists are ready to help you work towards sustainable relationships and ongoing personal growth.
You deserve a bright and radiant life, and our team of highly trained and compassionate therapists can help you achieve that goal. In physics, lumens measure the brightness generated by a light source. In our therapy practice, we see moments of insight and clarity as lumens of personal and relational growth. We know reaching out to a therapist can feel scary, but it’s an important step in recognizing the value of your own heart and life experience. Our therapists are ready to help you work towards sustainable relationships and ongoing personal growth.
(720) 669-7025 View (720) 669-7025
Photo of Casey Shank, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Casey Shank
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80238  (Online Only)
With a combination of education, personal experience, and compassion, I help navigate the ups and downs of life with my clients. I believe in existing in the present moment as much as possible, self-advocacy, and joy. I am passionate about building resilience and being creative. My care is individualized according to your needs and goals. I am intentional about my own self-care by spending time with my loved ones and participating in adventures that include travel and trying new things which push me to go beyond my perceived abilities. I would love to be part of your mental wellness journey and am ready to support you.
With a combination of education, personal experience, and compassion, I help navigate the ups and downs of life with my clients. I believe in existing in the present moment as much as possible, self-advocacy, and joy. I am passionate about building resilience and being creative. My care is individualized according to your needs and goals. I am intentional about my own self-care by spending time with my loved ones and participating in adventures that include travel and trying new things which push me to go beyond my perceived abilities. I would love to be part of your mental wellness journey and am ready to support you.
(720) 815-4728 View (720) 815-4728
Photo of Katie Zeman, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Katie Zeman
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
Healing is a journey requiring courage, compassion, and patience. I hope to accompany you on your path as you voyage through challenges and celebrations that lead to your ultimate liberation. I’m a Naropa University graduate which provided me training in Contemplative Psychotherapy & Buddhist Psychology. This approach allows me to contact the inherent wisdom that is in each human’s emotions and behaviors, using mindful awareness throughout our process. Being a survivor of trauma myself, I know how challenging and confusing it can be to find real, lasting relief.
Healing is a journey requiring courage, compassion, and patience. I hope to accompany you on your path as you voyage through challenges and celebrations that lead to your ultimate liberation. I’m a Naropa University graduate which provided me training in Contemplative Psychotherapy & Buddhist Psychology. This approach allows me to contact the inherent wisdom that is in each human’s emotions and behaviors, using mindful awareness throughout our process. Being a survivor of trauma myself, I know how challenging and confusing it can be to find real, lasting relief.
(720) 759-3801 View (720) 759-3801
Photo of Suzanne Sellers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Suzanne Sellers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the effects of trauma, grief, loss, or stigma or are your relationships struggling? What would your life be like a year from now if you were still struggling without improvement or attempting to heal? Wouldn’t it be better to start the healing process now? How might your life be better?
Are you struggling with the effects of trauma, grief, loss, or stigma or are your relationships struggling? What would your life be like a year from now if you were still struggling without improvement or attempting to heal? Wouldn’t it be better to start the healing process now? How might your life be better?
(720) 605-3327 View (720) 605-3327
Photo of Shanen Curran Trauma Informed Mindfulness Based Counseling, Counselor in Denver, CO
Shanen Curran Trauma Informed Mindfulness Based Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
Welcome! Finding a therapist can be a vulnerable and challenging task, I’m glad you've found your way here. I work with folks hoping to create new patterns, behaviors, and grow deeper connections with themselves. Are you someone who overthinks, analyzes, or is constantly stuck in your head? Have you been told in the past that you are “too sensitive” or things are “not that big of a deal”? Perhaps you have felt misunderstood or invalidated by those around you, causing you to isolate or retreat to your thoughts. If you're struggling with a harsh inner critic and seeking to move towards more self compassion, we may be a good fit.
Welcome! Finding a therapist can be a vulnerable and challenging task, I’m glad you've found your way here. I work with folks hoping to create new patterns, behaviors, and grow deeper connections with themselves. Are you someone who overthinks, analyzes, or is constantly stuck in your head? Have you been told in the past that you are “too sensitive” or things are “not that big of a deal”? Perhaps you have felt misunderstood or invalidated by those around you, causing you to isolate or retreat to your thoughts. If you're struggling with a harsh inner critic and seeking to move towards more self compassion, we may be a good fit.
(720) 580-5653 View (720) 580-5653
Photo of Alicia Borley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Alicia Borley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Every phase of life offers challenges, uncertainties, and opportunities for growth. I empower my clients to make the changes they feel they can't. I take a holistic approach, incorporating the person and their environment in healing. I know how vital it is to meet you where you are in life, and will help you build your resilience from within through a person-centered approach. You may often feel alone, but I provide a safe space to walk with you through life’s obstacles. I use a variety of modalities, a strengths-based approach, and a trauma-informed lens to tailor your treatment.
Every phase of life offers challenges, uncertainties, and opportunities for growth. I empower my clients to make the changes they feel they can't. I take a holistic approach, incorporating the person and their environment in healing. I know how vital it is to meet you where you are in life, and will help you build your resilience from within through a person-centered approach. You may often feel alone, but I provide a safe space to walk with you through life’s obstacles. I use a variety of modalities, a strengths-based approach, and a trauma-informed lens to tailor your treatment.
(720) 449-2055 View (720) 449-2055
Photo of Angela M Beers, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Angela M Beers
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, CO | MI
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
Our lives are full of beginnings and endings, of smaller and larger scale. Some changes are difficult to navigate, some we ignore and some we aren't even aware of. Before a new chapter can begin, one must be able to learn how to navigate through the experience and say goodbye. I facilitate opportunities that provide client's clarity and support with moving forward in the direction they desire. Making room for self-acceptance, more joy and deeper connections. I specialize in working with the marginalized and adults who are going through a process of change & growth, and those navigating difficult life transitions.
Our lives are full of beginnings and endings, of smaller and larger scale. Some changes are difficult to navigate, some we ignore and some we aren't even aware of. Before a new chapter can begin, one must be able to learn how to navigate through the experience and say goodbye. I facilitate opportunities that provide client's clarity and support with moving forward in the direction they desire. Making room for self-acceptance, more joy and deeper connections. I specialize in working with the marginalized and adults who are going through a process of change & growth, and those navigating difficult life transitions.
(719) 749-7804 View (719) 749-7804
Photo of Sophie Ernstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Sophie Ernstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Now accepting new clients - evening slots available! Being a human can be an intense experience and you are not alone! I usually see clients who are looking to process stress, overwhelming emotions, identities, relationships, and past experiences. I have experience providing trauma informed care for nurses, gender affirming care for the gender expansive community, and couples/people in relationships who hold intersecting identities. I am poly/queer/sex work/kink informed. I also offer superbills to submit to your insurance to get reimbursement for our sessions.
Now accepting new clients - evening slots available! Being a human can be an intense experience and you are not alone! I usually see clients who are looking to process stress, overwhelming emotions, identities, relationships, and past experiences. I have experience providing trauma informed care for nurses, gender affirming care for the gender expansive community, and couples/people in relationships who hold intersecting identities. I am poly/queer/sex work/kink informed. I also offer superbills to submit to your insurance to get reimbursement for our sessions.
(720) 783-3175 View (720) 783-3175
Photo of Adrian Kunemund, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Adrian Kunemund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
As queer women, we often have more challenges to navigate than others and sometimes we need extra support. I can provide you with that support. I work with queer women who are struggling with feelings of stress, relationships concerns, dating, anxiety, parenting, marriage, depression, & frustration. I also help people struggling with ADHD and with grief/loss. I am a doctoral level psychologist & have graduated & trained in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association.
As queer women, we often have more challenges to navigate than others and sometimes we need extra support. I can provide you with that support. I work with queer women who are struggling with feelings of stress, relationships concerns, dating, anxiety, parenting, marriage, depression, & frustration. I also help people struggling with ADHD and with grief/loss. I am a doctoral level psychologist & have graduated & trained in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association.
(404) 948-5253 View (404) 948-5253
Photo of Cassie Matz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Cassie Matz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy is a courageous act, and I want to thank you for taking the first step to improving your mental health and happiness! My name is Cassie Matz, and I have been a therapist since 2010. My passion is in helping people find meaning and purpose while coping with grief and loss, depression and anxiety, parenting issues, and women’s issues (including fertility, relational issues, career challenges, adjustments to parenthood, and self-esteem). You are the expert in your life story, and I will follow your lead as we work towards meeting your personal and relationship goals.
Seeking therapy is a courageous act, and I want to thank you for taking the first step to improving your mental health and happiness! My name is Cassie Matz, and I have been a therapist since 2010. My passion is in helping people find meaning and purpose while coping with grief and loss, depression and anxiety, parenting issues, and women’s issues (including fertility, relational issues, career challenges, adjustments to parenthood, and self-esteem). You are the expert in your life story, and I will follow your lead as we work towards meeting your personal and relationship goals.
(720) 780-8810 View (720) 780-8810
Photo of Andrew Larrimer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Andrew Larrimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or emotionally volatile, you are not alone - according to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five people in the United States live with a mental health issue. Whether you need room to express yourself, help separating, prioritizing, and reflecting on the issues you’re facing, or outside accountability (or maybe a little bit of all of those), I am here for you. My clients find me easy to talk to, straightforward, and a great teammate in helping them set and realize their goals. I adapt well to the needs of my clients so that you are able to benefit from our time together.
If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or emotionally volatile, you are not alone - according to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five people in the United States live with a mental health issue. Whether you need room to express yourself, help separating, prioritizing, and reflecting on the issues you’re facing, or outside accountability (or maybe a little bit of all of those), I am here for you. My clients find me easy to talk to, straightforward, and a great teammate in helping them set and realize their goals. I adapt well to the needs of my clients so that you are able to benefit from our time together.
(720) 571-1607 View (720) 571-1607

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Denver, CO

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Self Esteem
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Denver, CO see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Denver?

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.