Therapists in Longview, WA

Photo of Alex Potter, Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CMHS
Alex Potter
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CMHS
3 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
Not accepting new clients
I am a dual credentialed mental health and substance abuse counselor with experience helping adolescents and young adults work through challenging times including addiction, depression, trauma, and anxiety. Everyone has needs including being heard and noticed, communicating, connecting, and expressing emotions. Sometimes people develop patterns to meet these needs that include putting their health, relationships, and responsibilities at risk. I want to help you recognize your needs, identify and process the barriers, and develop new patterns to get your needs met in the way that is the most effective for you and those around you.
I am a dual credentialed mental health and substance abuse counselor with experience helping adolescents and young adults work through challenging times including addiction, depression, trauma, and anxiety. Everyone has needs including being heard and noticed, communicating, connecting, and expressing emotions. Sometimes people develop patterns to meet these needs that include putting their health, relationships, and responsibilities at risk. I want to help you recognize your needs, identify and process the barriers, and develop new patterns to get your needs met in the way that is the most effective for you and those around you.
(360) 218-0224 View (360) 218-0224
Photo of Molly Rogers, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Molly Rogers
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Molly Rogers holds a Masters degree in psychology and mental health counseling , as well as a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Molly has been practicing behavior intervention and modification for the past 14 years. During the past seven years Molly has enjoyed providing evidenced based mental health services to clients with co-occurring disorders to include, addiction disorders, mental health diagnosis of depression, anxiety, bipolar I, schizophrenia, and all other diagnoses.
Molly Rogers holds a Masters degree in psychology and mental health counseling , as well as a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Molly has been practicing behavior intervention and modification for the past 14 years. During the past seven years Molly has enjoyed providing evidenced based mental health services to clients with co-occurring disorders to include, addiction disorders, mental health diagnosis of depression, anxiety, bipolar I, schizophrenia, and all other diagnoses.
(360) 838-5979 View (360) 838-5979
Photo of R. Jeff(Nickname) Russ, Psychologist, SHRM, CDP, PhD
R. Jeff(Nickname) Russ
Psychologist, SHRM, CDP, PhD
Longview, WA 98632
Individual Therapy, Couple’s Therapy, Family Therapy, and Group Therapy Theoretical Orientation Jeff deals with addictions, parenting, communication, relational issues, stress, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Jeff has provided human resources/management consulting for organizations for more than twenty years. He is a Human Resources professional and broadcaster. Originally when he entered the helping services by working for a large non-profit organization (The Salvation Army), the management noticed that he was building positive relationships with the hardest to reach clients. Please call Jeff contact 520-260-4584.
Individual Therapy, Couple’s Therapy, Family Therapy, and Group Therapy Theoretical Orientation Jeff deals with addictions, parenting, communication, relational issues, stress, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Jeff has provided human resources/management consulting for organizations for more than twenty years. He is a Human Resources professional and broadcaster. Originally when he entered the helping services by working for a large non-profit organization (The Salvation Army), the management noticed that he was building positive relationships with the hardest to reach clients. Please call Jeff contact 520-260-4584.
(520) 260-4584 View (520) 260-4584
Photo of Todd Broderius, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Todd Broderius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Longview, WA 98632
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Washington with 30 years professional work experience. I am ethically and personally committed to helping you meet your personal goals. Change is hard, but it is my belief that every person has the capacity for growth. I work to meet you where you are and create a safe space for hope and change to begin. If you need help identifying what you want to be different in your life, or if you know what you want but haven't figured out how to do it, I'd like to help. I view it as a privilege to help others along their path.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Washington with 30 years professional work experience. I am ethically and personally committed to helping you meet your personal goals. Change is hard, but it is my belief that every person has the capacity for growth. I work to meet you where you are and create a safe space for hope and change to begin. If you need help identifying what you want to be different in your life, or if you know what you want but haven't figured out how to do it, I'd like to help. I view it as a privilege to help others along their path.
(360) 997-5911 View (360) 997-5911
Counseling Services Training Institute
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
CSTI offers low cost therapy sessions, provided by masters level mental health interns and practicum students. Every CSTI counselor is required to complete clinical hours under the supervision of licensed and experienced mental health professionals. CSTI clinical supervisors match each incoming client with the intern who is best suited to address their unique circumstances.
CSTI offers low cost therapy sessions, provided by masters level mental health interns and practicum students. Every CSTI counselor is required to complete clinical hours under the supervision of licensed and experienced mental health professionals. CSTI clinical supervisors match each incoming client with the intern who is best suited to address their unique circumstances.
(360) 347-9661 View (360) 347-9661
Photo of Amber Myers, Counselor, LMHC
Amber Myers
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I am a dual-licensed clinician who approaches therapy through life experience and a holistic approach. I believe that broken people help broken people. I like to say I am most likely not your typical vision of what a therapist would be like, and that is due to my approachability and connectivity. I approach care with a full range of approaches tailored to the needs of the human being in front of me. I am a compassionate and well-rounded therapist.
I am a dual-licensed clinician who approaches therapy through life experience and a holistic approach. I believe that broken people help broken people. I like to say I am most likely not your typical vision of what a therapist would be like, and that is due to my approachability and connectivity. I approach care with a full range of approaches tailored to the needs of the human being in front of me. I am a compassionate and well-rounded therapist.
(509) 519-4810 View (509) 519-4810
Photo of Travis Nelson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Travis Nelson
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
I help individuals, couples, and families through life's difficulties. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or things just aren’t working right I offer a safe place to explore your life. My aim is for you to experience understanding, hope, and growth through connection and trust with others and yourself. I believe you are the expert on your life and my role is to attune to your needs as we uncover insights and strategies to improve your well-being. My process is to assist you in navigating your emotions, thoughts, beliefs, identity, and relationships. Please feel free to ask any question as I offer free consultations.
I help individuals, couples, and families through life's difficulties. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or things just aren’t working right I offer a safe place to explore your life. My aim is for you to experience understanding, hope, and growth through connection and trust with others and yourself. I believe you are the expert on your life and my role is to attune to your needs as we uncover insights and strategies to improve your well-being. My process is to assist you in navigating your emotions, thoughts, beliefs, identity, and relationships. Please feel free to ask any question as I offer free consultations.
(360) 654-7164 View (360) 654-7164
Photo of Lacey Gray, Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Lacey Gray
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
Hello and welcome! You have made a very brave choice to invest in yourself by coming to therapy. Whatever it is you hope to receive from our time together, my mission is to provide a safe, caring, challenging environment in which you can grow, come to know yourself more deeply and find ways to cope and heal. I became a therapist because I enjoy walking alongside people as they grow and discover the tools of change within themselves. I find that change comes best within relationship and feeling safe, validated and heard. Thrive Therapy LLC is designed with each person in mind. Therapy is uniquelly tailored to you as an individual.
Hello and welcome! You have made a very brave choice to invest in yourself by coming to therapy. Whatever it is you hope to receive from our time together, my mission is to provide a safe, caring, challenging environment in which you can grow, come to know yourself more deeply and find ways to cope and heal. I became a therapist because I enjoy walking alongside people as they grow and discover the tools of change within themselves. I find that change comes best within relationship and feeling safe, validated and heard. Thrive Therapy LLC is designed with each person in mind. Therapy is uniquelly tailored to you as an individual.
(360) 276-6897 View (360) 276-6897
Duncan James Calver
Psychologist, PsyD
Longview, WA 98632
My patients are adults over the age of 18, and who are seeking help for better managing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, obsessions, and the lasting results of trauma. You may consider me as a good fit if you have a curiosity about yourself, are ready to start challenging old ways of thinking, and want to discover your most authentic self.
My patients are adults over the age of 18, and who are seeking help for better managing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, obsessions, and the lasting results of trauma. You may consider me as a good fit if you have a curiosity about yourself, are ready to start challenging old ways of thinking, and want to discover your most authentic self.
(360) 227-7725 x162 View (360) 227-7725 x162
Photo of Melanie D Randolph, Counselor, LMHC
Melanie D Randolph
Counselor, LMHC
Longview, WA 98632
Trauma can get stuck in the body. Throughout time, that trauma wreaks havoc on our physical and emotional being causing a myriad of health problems. Because trauma is stored differently than other stressors, it demands a specific therapeutic approach. As you may have experienced in past therapy, talking about trauma is often ineffective, and revisiting those memories can often worsen your situation. This can lead to relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Together, we can find a way to move past that trauma and live a life free of pain, and filled with peace.
Trauma can get stuck in the body. Throughout time, that trauma wreaks havoc on our physical and emotional being causing a myriad of health problems. Because trauma is stored differently than other stressors, it demands a specific therapeutic approach. As you may have experienced in past therapy, talking about trauma is often ineffective, and revisiting those memories can often worsen your situation. This can lead to relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Together, we can find a way to move past that trauma and live a life free of pain, and filled with peace.
(360) 227-5412 View (360) 227-5412
Photo of Makael L White, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC, MA
Makael L White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC, MA
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I do not keep a waitlist. My caseload is currently full. Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; trauma; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
I do not keep a waitlist. My caseload is currently full. Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; trauma; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
(206) 312-7423 View (206) 312-7423
Photo of Nita Joy Schlumpberger, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SUDP, CPC
Nita Joy Schlumpberger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SUDP, CPC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My therapeutic approach is person-centered based on the belief that everyone has their qualities and experiences that are unique to them. I am interested in working with adolescents, individuals, and families who are dealing with grief and loss issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. The emphasis is placed on the healing process using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, and Strength-Based Therapy. I provide empathy, active listening, and empowering clients to achieve their goals.
My therapeutic approach is person-centered based on the belief that everyone has their qualities and experiences that are unique to them. I am interested in working with adolescents, individuals, and families who are dealing with grief and loss issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. The emphasis is placed on the healing process using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, and Strength-Based Therapy. I provide empathy, active listening, and empowering clients to achieve their goals.
(360) 230-7218 View (360) 230-7218
Photo of Suzanne Snow, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Suzanne Snow
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
Supporting Children, Teens Adults and Families through Healing and Growth About Me I work with Children, teens, Adults and families around challenges such as anxiety, depression trauma, grief and loss, and attention difficulties. I understand that the struggles we face can sometimes feel overwhelming and difficult to make sense of, and I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where healing can begin.
Supporting Children, Teens Adults and Families through Healing and Growth About Me I work with Children, teens, Adults and families around challenges such as anxiety, depression trauma, grief and loss, and attention difficulties. I understand that the struggles we face can sometimes feel overwhelming and difficult to make sense of, and I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where healing can begin.
(360) 868-8404 View (360) 868-8404
Photo of Dr. Julia Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSWIA
Dr. Julia Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSWIA
Online Only
You may be feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or disconnected from yourself. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, or the effects of trauma or chronic stress. You may feel stretched thin, emotionally overloaded, or unsure how to find relief that truly helps. What you’re looking for is therapy that offers understanding, support, and practical tools to help you feel more regulated, grounded, and at ease in your daily life.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or disconnected from yourself. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, or the effects of trauma or chronic stress. You may feel stretched thin, emotionally overloaded, or unsure how to find relief that truly helps. What you’re looking for is therapy that offers understanding, support, and practical tools to help you feel more regulated, grounded, and at ease in your daily life.
(360) 515-4129 View (360) 515-4129
Photo of Barbara J Brandhorst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SUDP, LICSW
Barbara J Brandhorst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SUDP, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
I am an experienced therapist with over 30 years' experience in the fields of mental health; including child welfare, foster care, corrections, court system, chemical dependency and mental health case work. My goal is to help you become your best self, one step at a time. My specialties included: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing-EMDR (2017), Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Neuro Linguistic Programming-NLP (2019) techniques to assist individuals with desired change. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, court ordered supervised visitation and reunification counseling.
I am an experienced therapist with over 30 years' experience in the fields of mental health; including child welfare, foster care, corrections, court system, chemical dependency and mental health case work. My goal is to help you become your best self, one step at a time. My specialties included: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing-EMDR (2017), Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Neuro Linguistic Programming-NLP (2019) techniques to assist individuals with desired change. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, court ordered supervised visitation and reunification counseling.
(360) 207-2247 View (360) 207-2247
Photo of Amanda Hart, Counselor, CC, LMT
Amanda Hart
Counselor, CC, LMT
Longview, WA 98632
In my practice, I focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where together we can explore your past and your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I utilize evidence-based therapies to help my clients adjust to life situations and to address symptoms of a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma-related disorders, and issues affecting their relationships with partners or family. I am here to guide you or your family through the complexities of life, helping you to build resilience, improve coping strategies, and foster positive change.
In my practice, I focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where together we can explore your past and your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I utilize evidence-based therapies to help my clients adjust to life situations and to address symptoms of a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma-related disorders, and issues affecting their relationships with partners or family. I am here to guide you or your family through the complexities of life, helping you to build resilience, improve coping strategies, and foster positive change.
(360) 860-5428 View (360) 860-5428
Photo of Brittany Pruitt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Brittany Pruitt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
I am so glad you are here. Beginning therapy is a brave decision, and no matter what you are going through, my priority is to create a space for you to feel supported, accepted, and safe. I want to meet people where they are and help them address hurts, achieve balance and learn new skills to help navigate struggles.
I am so glad you are here. Beginning therapy is a brave decision, and no matter what you are going through, my priority is to create a space for you to feel supported, accepted, and safe. I want to meet people where they are and help them address hurts, achieve balance and learn new skills to help navigate struggles.
(360) 345-3822 View (360) 345-3822
Photo of Fay LOUISE Slusher - Place of Mind, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Place of Mind, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I am an experienced Marriage and Family therapist who has worked in mental health for over 20 years. I have worked with patients who have displayed ADD, ADHD, ODD and GAD symptoms and adults who have been dealing with severe major depressive and anxiety disorders, at this time I work exclusively with adults. I have worked with psychotic behaviors and disorders, suicide and self-harming behaviors. Recently I have encountered many patients that have been severely impacted by the COVID epidemic regarding deficits in all areas of their lives.
I am an experienced Marriage and Family therapist who has worked in mental health for over 20 years. I have worked with patients who have displayed ADD, ADHD, ODD and GAD symptoms and adults who have been dealing with severe major depressive and anxiety disorders, at this time I work exclusively with adults. I have worked with psychotic behaviors and disorders, suicide and self-harming behaviors. Recently I have encountered many patients that have been severely impacted by the COVID epidemic regarding deficits in all areas of their lives.
(360) 569-1814 View (360) 569-1814
Photo of Kelie Bryson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Kelie Bryson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
Have you been feeling like it’s time to make a positive change? Are you tired of repeating the same patterns and getting the same results? As an EMDR-trained therapist, I help clients reprocess past experiences and transform them into stories of strength and resilience. Together, we’ll uncover the deeper roots driving your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so you can create meaningful, lasting change and step into the best version of yourself. For those seeking more focused and efficient healing, I also offer EMDR intensives designed to help resolve trauma more rapidly.
Have you been feeling like it’s time to make a positive change? Are you tired of repeating the same patterns and getting the same results? As an EMDR-trained therapist, I help clients reprocess past experiences and transform them into stories of strength and resilience. Together, we’ll uncover the deeper roots driving your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so you can create meaningful, lasting change and step into the best version of yourself. For those seeking more focused and efficient healing, I also offer EMDR intensives designed to help resolve trauma more rapidly.
(360) 392-5953 View (360) 392-5953
Photo of Molly Rogers, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Molly Rogers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Online Only
Molly Rogers, MA, WA, LCPC NV, LMHC RI holds a master's degree in psychology and mental health counseling and a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Molly has been practicing behavioral intervention and for the past 14 years. During the past eight years, Molly has enjoyed providing evidence-based mental health services to clients with co-occurring disorders, including addiction disorders, mental health diagnoses of depression, anxiety, bipolar I, schizophrenia, and all other diagnoses. Molly is a solution-based therapist who utilizes evidence-based therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), (DBT)...etc
Molly Rogers, MA, WA, LCPC NV, LMHC RI holds a master's degree in psychology and mental health counseling and a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. Molly has been practicing behavioral intervention and for the past 14 years. During the past eight years, Molly has enjoyed providing evidence-based mental health services to clients with co-occurring disorders, including addiction disorders, mental health diagnoses of depression, anxiety, bipolar I, schizophrenia, and all other diagnoses. Molly is a solution-based therapist who utilizes evidence-based therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), (DBT)...etc
(360) 968-6677 View (360) 968-6677

See more therapy options for Longview

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Longview, WA

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Longview, WA who prioritize treating:

83% Anxiety
79% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
66% Self Esteem
60% Relationship Issues
58% Grief
57% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Premera Blue Cross
67% Aetna
64% Regence

How Therapists in Longview, WA see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
18% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Longview?

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.