Therapists in Fort Collins, CO

Photo of Michele Faris, Psychologist in Fort Collins, CO
Michele Faris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521  (Online Only)
My teacher Brene Brown has said, "Owning our story and loving ourselves through the process is the bravest thing we will ever do." As a Psychologist with 35 + years in practice, I continue to study discoveries in neuroscience and human behavior, and while I'm glad of that, what I know is that counseling is about talking through the hard stuff - shame, blame, fear, anger, criticism, grief, forgiveness, and all the rest. Tell me your story in all of its messiness, and let's figure out what's to be done about it. I welcome adults 18 and up struggling with most of what life dishes up. I promise to be candid and compassionate.
My teacher Brene Brown has said, "Owning our story and loving ourselves through the process is the bravest thing we will ever do." As a Psychologist with 35 + years in practice, I continue to study discoveries in neuroscience and human behavior, and while I'm glad of that, what I know is that counseling is about talking through the hard stuff - shame, blame, fear, anger, criticism, grief, forgiveness, and all the rest. Tell me your story in all of its messiness, and let's figure out what's to be done about it. I welcome adults 18 and up struggling with most of what life dishes up. I promise to be candid and compassionate.
(970) 281-5901 View (970) 281-5901
Photo of Jesselyn DeFilippo, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Fort Collins, CO
Jesselyn DeFilippo
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC , MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Hello! I know the process of finding a therapist can be a challenging task, and I wish you well on your search to find the perfect fit - you've already started the most difficult part! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in the state of Colorado and feel deeply grateful to get to know every one of my clients, hear their unique story, and witness their growth and change. I have expertise working with adults who wish to address a variety of concerns including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, healing from traumatic experiences, and managing their relationship with alcohol/substances.
Hello! I know the process of finding a therapist can be a challenging task, and I wish you well on your search to find the perfect fit - you've already started the most difficult part! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in the state of Colorado and feel deeply grateful to get to know every one of my clients, hear their unique story, and witness their growth and change. I have expertise working with adults who wish to address a variety of concerns including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, healing from traumatic experiences, and managing their relationship with alcohol/substances.
(970) 591-5818 View (970) 591-5818
Photo of Anne Maxwell, Psychologist in Fort Collins, CO
Anne Maxwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80521  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and phobias. I have experience working with specific diagnoses including anxiety disorders, depression, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism. I am certified in treating tech addiction (gaming, social media, video) and promoting digital health in children, adolescents and young adults.
I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and phobias. I have experience working with specific diagnoses including anxiety disorders, depression, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism. I am certified in treating tech addiction (gaming, social media, video) and promoting digital health in children, adolescents and young adults.
(970) 533-8790 View (970) 533-8790
Photo of Ben Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Collins, CO
Ben Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
A good therapist will work to put themselves out of job. Think about it, if therapy is actually working, you should need it less and less over time. When I ask people about their previous experiences in therapy I often hear “It was ok, we mostly just talked about my week”. Most people generally come to therapy with a specific issue to address but reviewing the week’s stressors is not a direct way to solving the problem.
A good therapist will work to put themselves out of job. Think about it, if therapy is actually working, you should need it less and less over time. When I ask people about their previous experiences in therapy I often hear “It was ok, we mostly just talked about my week”. Most people generally come to therapy with a specific issue to address but reviewing the week’s stressors is not a direct way to solving the problem.
(970) 840-9003 View (970) 840-9003
Photo of Ashley Nielsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Collins, CO
Ashley Nielsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I believe that every person deserves to live a fulfilling and authentic life. I strive to create a safe, warm, and compassionate environment for clients to share their unique stories, current struggles, and future aspirations. With gentle guidance and kindness, I use a holistic and eclectic approach, mindfulness-based techniques, and attachment theory to help my clients explore their stories at their own pace and create the future they want. I utilizes person-centered and strengths-based modalities to help empower my clients to take steps to transform their lives in positive and long-lasting ways.
I believe that every person deserves to live a fulfilling and authentic life. I strive to create a safe, warm, and compassionate environment for clients to share their unique stories, current struggles, and future aspirations. With gentle guidance and kindness, I use a holistic and eclectic approach, mindfulness-based techniques, and attachment theory to help my clients explore their stories at their own pace and create the future they want. I utilizes person-centered and strengths-based modalities to help empower my clients to take steps to transform their lives in positive and long-lasting ways.
(970) 289-4964 View (970) 289-4964
Photo of Miguel Angel Triste Jr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fort Collins, CO
Miguel Angel Triste Jr
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
For better or for worse, life is full of surprises. It can take a lot out of us emotionally, mentally, and physically. No one understands your life better than you do, and I am here to help you move away from those patterns that have been holding you back. I want to help you take a chance to better yourself, whatever that looks like for you. Working with a therapist is something that takes, and when you are ready to take that chance, it can be beautiful and healing. I would be glad to help you on this journey.
For better or for worse, life is full of surprises. It can take a lot out of us emotionally, mentally, and physically. No one understands your life better than you do, and I am here to help you move away from those patterns that have been holding you back. I want to help you take a chance to better yourself, whatever that looks like for you. Working with a therapist is something that takes, and when you are ready to take that chance, it can be beautiful and healing. I would be glad to help you on this journey.
(970) 239-8282 View (970) 239-8282
Photo of Releasing The Past, Unlicensed Psychotherapist in Fort Collins, CO
Releasing The Past
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, MS, SEP, STR, ISP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Sometimes people hit a wall. Things that used to be satisfying, like career, relationships, or hobbies don't light them up the way they did when they were younger. All the sleepless nights worrying about "why?" just lead to a useless cycle. I help people, aged 25-85, who have "hit the wall" and are ready to find a healthy way through to the other side. My clients are sick to death of repeating the same unsatisfying patterns, but can't seem to stop or change. They feel stressed, ashamed, shut-down, or depressed and don't feel nearly enough love, joy, optimism, or creativity.
Sometimes people hit a wall. Things that used to be satisfying, like career, relationships, or hobbies don't light them up the way they did when they were younger. All the sleepless nights worrying about "why?" just lead to a useless cycle. I help people, aged 25-85, who have "hit the wall" and are ready to find a healthy way through to the other side. My clients are sick to death of repeating the same unsatisfying patterns, but can't seem to stop or change. They feel stressed, ashamed, shut-down, or depressed and don't feel nearly enough love, joy, optimism, or creativity.
(970) 710-3246 View (970) 710-3246
Photo of Jeni Allton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Collins, CO
Jeni Allton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526  (Online Only)
My experience serving couples, individuals, and families for the past decade, along with my education in relationship therapy, has shown me the immense power of relationships- with ourselves, significant others, and with nature- for personal growth and self-actualization. Working as a wilderness therapist has only solidified this view for me. I practice relationship therapy as well as life and relationship coaching. My role is to guide you in achieving the personal and relational growth you are looking for. Let's work together to create a healthy relationship and a nourishing and joyful existence out of your life.
My experience serving couples, individuals, and families for the past decade, along with my education in relationship therapy, has shown me the immense power of relationships- with ourselves, significant others, and with nature- for personal growth and self-actualization. Working as a wilderness therapist has only solidified this view for me. I practice relationship therapy as well as life and relationship coaching. My role is to guide you in achieving the personal and relational growth you are looking for. Let's work together to create a healthy relationship and a nourishing and joyful existence out of your life.
(970) 444-4980 View (970) 444-4980
Photo of Kerry Peterson in Fort Collins, CO
Kerry Peterson
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Each of us has a unique history and is often remarkably creative in setting up the life we want- although sometimes we need help resolving some inner conflict before enjoying it. Even the most painful patterns develop for good reason. What has helped you to survive in one environment, may not work in others. This can be the source of significant suffering. I work with clients to peel back the layers of identity and examine the forces shaping the way they think and act. With this kind of exploration, greater well-being is possible.
Each of us has a unique history and is often remarkably creative in setting up the life we want- although sometimes we need help resolving some inner conflict before enjoying it. Even the most painful patterns develop for good reason. What has helped you to survive in one environment, may not work in others. This can be the source of significant suffering. I work with clients to peel back the layers of identity and examine the forces shaping the way they think and act. With this kind of exploration, greater well-being is possible.
(970) 713-9699 View (970) 713-9699
Photo of Michael Webster Sewell, Counselor in Fort Collins, CO
Michael Webster Sewell
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person sessions on Mondays. Also accepting clients utilizing Aetna, United/Optum, UMR, Oscar and Oxford insurance. life’s problems are often complex and can leave you feeling lost or trapped. I aim to help you forge your own path forward by providing a space which supports exploration and nurtures creativity. In our work together you will have the opportunity to try out new ways of being and express your authentic feelings in an unbiased space. I believe that you not only have the potential to face life's challenges, but also the ability to grow and evolve in the process.
I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person sessions on Mondays. Also accepting clients utilizing Aetna, United/Optum, UMR, Oscar and Oxford insurance. life’s problems are often complex and can leave you feeling lost or trapped. I aim to help you forge your own path forward by providing a space which supports exploration and nurtures creativity. In our work together you will have the opportunity to try out new ways of being and express your authentic feelings in an unbiased space. I believe that you not only have the potential to face life's challenges, but also the ability to grow and evolve in the process.
(720) 408-7999 View (720) 408-7999
Photo of Kaylee Coggins, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Fort Collins, CO
Kaylee Coggins
Clinical Social Work Candidate, SWC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Kaylee utilizes a holistic, empowering, and person-centered approach, understanding the uniqueness of all people and their situations. Kaylee has experience working with perinatal mental health, early childhood mental health, and parent-child attachment. Kaylee works with children, teens, adults, and families.
Kaylee utilizes a holistic, empowering, and person-centered approach, understanding the uniqueness of all people and their situations. Kaylee has experience working with perinatal mental health, early childhood mental health, and parent-child attachment. Kaylee works with children, teens, adults, and families.
(970) 489-8678 View (970) 489-8678
Photo of Debbie Gentry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Collins, CO
Debbie Gentry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Hours are Thursdays & Fridays only. I believe we are created to be in relationship with others. It is something we all desire and pursue as relationships are at the core of our identity as human beings. Relationships can bring us great joy or profound sadness. There is no greater pain and loneliness than to be in an unfulfilling relationship and no greater joy than to have a deep connection with others. If you are in a relationship that isn't working, want to understand what is causing your struggle and find ways to reconnect, please let me know. The best way to reach me is through email.
Hours are Thursdays & Fridays only. I believe we are created to be in relationship with others. It is something we all desire and pursue as relationships are at the core of our identity as human beings. Relationships can bring us great joy or profound sadness. There is no greater pain and loneliness than to be in an unfulfilling relationship and no greater joy than to have a deep connection with others. If you are in a relationship that isn't working, want to understand what is causing your struggle and find ways to reconnect, please let me know. The best way to reach me is through email.
(970) 458-7179 View (970) 458-7179
Photo of An Enduring Love, Co, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Collins, CO
An Enduring Love, Co
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524
I believe in a holistic approach, meaning my view of the therapeutic process is shaped by a curiosity about the whole person situated within relationships, community, and social context. Through discovering an individuals inner knowledge, their intuition, and that inner spark of existence, I believe there is value in exploring who we are as people. The goal of good psychotherapy quite simply put is to become more of who we authentically are, everyday. It is also my belief that people naturally go through phases in life of seeking and integration, and that in an ideal outcome the therapist becomes obsolete.
I believe in a holistic approach, meaning my view of the therapeutic process is shaped by a curiosity about the whole person situated within relationships, community, and social context. Through discovering an individuals inner knowledge, their intuition, and that inner spark of existence, I believe there is value in exploring who we are as people. The goal of good psychotherapy quite simply put is to become more of who we authentically are, everyday. It is also my belief that people naturally go through phases in life of seeking and integration, and that in an ideal outcome the therapist becomes obsolete.
(970) 510-6362 View (970) 510-6362
Photo of Jonah Bryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Collins, CO
Jonah Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
"We cannot undo our old mistakes or their consequences any more than we can erase old wounds that we have both suffered and inflicted, but through the power that memory gives us of thinking, feeling, imagining our way back through time we can at long last finally finish with the past in the sense of removing its power to hurt us and other people and to stunt our growth as human beings." This quote, by Frederick Buechner, speaks to what therapy can unearth. We can't "undo our mistakes" or "erase old wounds." We can live free, healed, courageous lives.
"We cannot undo our old mistakes or their consequences any more than we can erase old wounds that we have both suffered and inflicted, but through the power that memory gives us of thinking, feeling, imagining our way back through time we can at long last finally finish with the past in the sense of removing its power to hurt us and other people and to stunt our growth as human beings." This quote, by Frederick Buechner, speaks to what therapy can unearth. We can't "undo our mistakes" or "erase old wounds." We can live free, healed, courageous lives.
(970) 438-3016 View (970) 438-3016
Photo of Chad Morris, Psychologist in Fort Collins, CO
Chad Morris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80521
We all have spirit. The spirit to move toward meaning in this limited time we have. We often need support in this chaotic world, to speak our truth- And a space to set expectations aside but for an hour at a time. To decide what we want to be and how we want to show up in this moment. And what we want to leave behind as a legacy to family, community, and the world. It would be a privilege to provide a space for you to explore this.
We all have spirit. The spirit to move toward meaning in this limited time we have. We often need support in this chaotic world, to speak our truth- And a space to set expectations aside but for an hour at a time. To decide what we want to be and how we want to show up in this moment. And what we want to leave behind as a legacy to family, community, and the world. It would be a privilege to provide a space for you to explore this.
(970) 818-5876 View (970) 818-5876
Photo of Lyza Verosky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Collins, CO
Lyza Verosky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Not accepting new clients
I have worked extensively with high-risk populations and pride myself on building trusting and objective therapeutic relationships, no matter the presenting issue. I am formally trained in Functional Family Therapy (FFT) and worked in homes with families experiencing relational strain. I have also worked in a crisis center, treating and assessing depression, anxiety, psychosis, etc. I am excited to work more with adolescents, adults, families, and couples, continuing to provide a safe and comfortable space for individual and relational treatment.
I have worked extensively with high-risk populations and pride myself on building trusting and objective therapeutic relationships, no matter the presenting issue. I am formally trained in Functional Family Therapy (FFT) and worked in homes with families experiencing relational strain. I have also worked in a crisis center, treating and assessing depression, anxiety, psychosis, etc. I am excited to work more with adolescents, adults, families, and couples, continuing to provide a safe and comfortable space for individual and relational treatment.
(970) 364-1870 View (970) 364-1870
Photo of Jana Carson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Collins, CO
Jana Carson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Bienvenidos! Finding the right therapist can be a process. I would be a good fit if you are looking for a therapist who is highly compassionate and caring, sometimes maybe a little bit funny, while also gently challenging you as we move towards your goals together. I have a lot of experience working with individual survivors of trauma, helping them move through trauma's impacts to reclaim their lives. I am trained in various theoretical modalities including IFS and EMDR, but I also know that sometimes people just need a safe place to talk and process life. Ingles es mi primer idioma, pero también ofresco terapia en español.
Welcome! Bienvenidos! Finding the right therapist can be a process. I would be a good fit if you are looking for a therapist who is highly compassionate and caring, sometimes maybe a little bit funny, while also gently challenging you as we move towards your goals together. I have a lot of experience working with individual survivors of trauma, helping them move through trauma's impacts to reclaim their lives. I am trained in various theoretical modalities including IFS and EMDR, but I also know that sometimes people just need a safe place to talk and process life. Ingles es mi primer idioma, pero también ofresco terapia en español.
(970) 665-4832 View (970) 665-4832
Photo of Chriss Hebbeler, LPC Intern in Fort Collins, CO
Chriss Hebbeler
LPC Intern, MA, CAS
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Sometimes we need help navigating obstacles, emotional wellness, or stress. We struggle to cope with burnout, depression, grief, substance abuse, or traumatic/significant life event(s). Perhaps we don’t know what we want—we only know what we don’t want. That's enough to get us started on a path to happier-ness. I believe Locard's exchange principle— that “every contact leaves a trace”—is true of personal & professional experiences. We leave part of ourselves behind and take something with us in every encounter or event. Therapy can help us honor that process, keep what is meaningful, and let go of what no longer serves us.
Sometimes we need help navigating obstacles, emotional wellness, or stress. We struggle to cope with burnout, depression, grief, substance abuse, or traumatic/significant life event(s). Perhaps we don’t know what we want—we only know what we don’t want. That's enough to get us started on a path to happier-ness. I believe Locard's exchange principle— that “every contact leaves a trace”—is true of personal & professional experiences. We leave part of ourselves behind and take something with us in every encounter or event. Therapy can help us honor that process, keep what is meaningful, and let go of what no longer serves us.
(970) 238-2928 View (970) 238-2928
Photo of Yvonne Pirwitz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fort Collins, CO
Yvonne Pirwitz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526  (Online Only)
I see you as a person, not your problem. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, but you don’t have to stay stuck in those thoughts and feelings forever. There are ways to work through these challenges and reclaim your life. Change can be a wonderful thing!
I see you as a person, not your problem. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, but you don’t have to stay stuck in those thoughts and feelings forever. There are ways to work through these challenges and reclaim your life. Change can be a wonderful thing!
(970) 707-5619 View (970) 707-5619
Photo of Madeline Florez-Ramirez (Hicks), Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Collins, CO
Madeline Florez-Ramirez (Hicks)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Come as you are and we will work together to find balance, heal, and make the desired changes in a judgement-free environment.
Come as you are and we will work together to find balance, heal, and make the desired changes in a judgement-free environment.
(970) 465-5603 View (970) 465-5603

See more therapy options for Fort Collins

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fort Collins, CO

1,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Fort Collins, CO who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
79% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
67% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Fort Collins, CO see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fort Collins?

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.