Photo of Melissa Ann Gledhill, LPC, RPT, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Ann Gledhill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, MA
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
I specialize in synergetic play therapy with children, yet also see individuals and couples. I am trained in an experiential, neurobiological and attachment based approach to therapy. I believe when a client implements self care and emotional regulation, they discover much of their answers and what they are looking for within themselves. I see myself as a guide in this process.
I specialize in synergetic play therapy with children, yet also see individuals and couples. I am trained in an experiential, neurobiological and attachment based approach to therapy. I believe when a client implements self care and emotional regulation, they discover much of their answers and what they are looking for within themselves. I see myself as a guide in this process.
(970) 710-3673 View (970) 710-3673
Photo of Abby Blacklock, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Blacklock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
**TELEHEALTH SESSIONS ONLY** Everyone experiences stress. Life gets busy. Life gets hard. Sometimes, life hurts. My desire is to help you discover peace in all areas of your life and allow that peace to transform your heart: the center of your soul, your mind, your will, and your character. My goal is to empower you through grace to discover healing, renewal, and hope in the midst of life's struggles. In counseling, I will walk beside you through life's difficult moments, instilling confidence, integrity, and dignity.
**TELEHEALTH SESSIONS ONLY** Everyone experiences stress. Life gets busy. Life gets hard. Sometimes, life hurts. My desire is to help you discover peace in all areas of your life and allow that peace to transform your heart: the center of your soul, your mind, your will, and your character. My goal is to empower you through grace to discover healing, renewal, and hope in the midst of life's struggles. In counseling, I will walk beside you through life's difficult moments, instilling confidence, integrity, and dignity.
(970) 688-4615 View (970) 688-4615
Photo of Elaine Krantz, MS, LPC, CGT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaine Krantz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CGT
Verified Verified
Blue River, CO 80424
I have worked with many individuals and couples, and what separates those who benefit from therapy are the people motivated and courageous enought to peek into their blind spots, and as well as committed to learning from sometimes painful trial and error experiences of being human. I feel honored to lead people through this powerful process.
I have worked with many individuals and couples, and what separates those who benefit from therapy are the people motivated and courageous enought to peek into their blind spots, and as well as committed to learning from sometimes painful trial and error experiences of being human. I feel honored to lead people through this powerful process.
(303) 807-3327 View (303) 807-3327
Photo of Ana Paula Castro-Papa - Ana Paula, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana Paula
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Ana Paula and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) which focuses on individual issues and behaviors as they come up in family and relationships. I focus on systemic relationships in order to understand how nonfunctional behaviors start and how to replace these with healthy relationships. I focus on individual therapy, while also seeing how these fit into families and relationships. My therapy focuses on managing some more intense issues such as depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, attachment issues and how they keep coming up in your daily life, and substance abuse issues.
Hello, my name is Ana Paula and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) which focuses on individual issues and behaviors as they come up in family and relationships. I focus on systemic relationships in order to understand how nonfunctional behaviors start and how to replace these with healthy relationships. I focus on individual therapy, while also seeing how these fit into families and relationships. My therapy focuses on managing some more intense issues such as depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, attachment issues and how they keep coming up in your daily life, and substance abuse issues.
(720) 928-2779 View (720) 928-2779
Photo of Laura Landrum, LCSW, LAC, MSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Landrum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Have you noticed that talk therapy alone has not resolved the challenges you face? Does unresolved trauma from the past affect you now, negatively impacting your life and relationships? Do you find yourself asking, “Why did I do that? Is something wrong with me?” As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor, I’m passionate about helping adults and teens learn how to gain insight into unconscious processes, resolve conflict, and develop healthier ways of coping with emotions and relationships.
Have you noticed that talk therapy alone has not resolved the challenges you face? Does unresolved trauma from the past affect you now, negatively impacting your life and relationships? Do you find yourself asking, “Why did I do that? Is something wrong with me?” As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor, I’m passionate about helping adults and teens learn how to gain insight into unconscious processes, resolve conflict, and develop healthier ways of coping with emotions and relationships.
(720) 689-5481 View (720) 689-5481
Photo of Kelly Banas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Banas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Welcome! My name is Kelly Banas and I am a collaborative, engaging, and compassionate licensed mental health therapist. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between therapist and client creates the condition for change in counseling. Operating off of this humanistic principle, I am highly empathic, accepting, non-judgmental and open to my client’s past and current experiences.
Welcome! My name is Kelly Banas and I am a collaborative, engaging, and compassionate licensed mental health therapist. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between therapist and client creates the condition for change in counseling. Operating off of this humanistic principle, I am highly empathic, accepting, non-judgmental and open to my client’s past and current experiences.
(719) 280-5625 View (719) 280-5625
Photo of Cindi Harris Krane, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindi Harris Krane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Thank you for looking at my profile! The best way to contact me is by texting 970-485-9546 or Gmail, link iis below. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor located in CO since 2012. I work with adults individually & couples/relationships. Going through a difficult time happens to all of us and help/support can make all the difference in managing challenges as effectively and healthily as possible. I offer confidential assistance for a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, co-occurring issues (ex. addiction & depression), relationship difficulties, impulsivity, grief & loss, trauma. Text 970-485-9546.
Thank you for looking at my profile! The best way to contact me is by texting 970-485-9546 or Gmail, link iis below. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor located in CO since 2012. I work with adults individually & couples/relationships. Going through a difficult time happens to all of us and help/support can make all the difference in managing challenges as effectively and healthily as possible. I offer confidential assistance for a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, co-occurring issues (ex. addiction & depression), relationship difficulties, impulsivity, grief & loss, trauma. Text 970-485-9546.
(970) 658-2188 View (970) 658-2188
Photo of Vivienne Varga - Powder Somatics, Mpsy, MCLC, SEP
Powder Somatics
Mpsy, MCLC, SEP
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424  (Online Only)
How would your life change if you truly understood how your nervous system influences your thoughts, the goals you achieve, and the possibilities you might be overlooking? Somatic coaching is a biologically based, bottom-up approach to healing stress & trauma that aims to help you achieve greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and overall well-being by tapping into your body’s innate wisdom. All you need to heal and move forward towards health and vitality lives within you.
How would your life change if you truly understood how your nervous system influences your thoughts, the goals you achieve, and the possibilities you might be overlooking? Somatic coaching is a biologically based, bottom-up approach to healing stress & trauma that aims to help you achieve greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and overall well-being by tapping into your body’s innate wisdom. All you need to heal and move forward towards health and vitality lives within you.
(970) 444-7981 View (970) 444-7981
Photo of Colleen Fischer, PhD, Psychologist
Colleen Fischer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
I am a licensed pediatric psychologist in the state of Colorado and I offer psychological assessment services to help answer important questions regarding your child or adolescent. I offer the full range of pediatric testing services, including cognitive testing, social/emotional testing, focused ADHD assessments, and in-depth learning disability evaluations. With over 20 years of experience assessing children and adolescents, I understand the complex needs of children with multiple diagnoses, emotional and learning concerns, and gifted and talented/2E issues. Evaluations can be conducted in the office setting or in your home.
I am a licensed pediatric psychologist in the state of Colorado and I offer psychological assessment services to help answer important questions regarding your child or adolescent. I offer the full range of pediatric testing services, including cognitive testing, social/emotional testing, focused ADHD assessments, and in-depth learning disability evaluations. With over 20 years of experience assessing children and adolescents, I understand the complex needs of children with multiple diagnoses, emotional and learning concerns, and gifted and talented/2E issues. Evaluations can be conducted in the office setting or in your home.
(720) 310-1100 View (720) 310-1100
Photo of Khristian Brace, MA, LPCC
Khristian Brace
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Do you feel wounded, disembodied, or like parts of yourself are hidden away? Are you yearning for more in life, sensing the weight of untapped potential, or hearing a deeper call? I offer a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, acknowledging the unpredictability of life and the complexity of human experiences. By leaning in toward our deepest emotions and fears with compassion and mindful awareness, we can embrace our inner wisdom to find liberation and relief from suffering. My approach is grounded in warmth, acceptance, presence, and non-judgment, allowing you to safely explore your identity, desires, and values.
Do you feel wounded, disembodied, or like parts of yourself are hidden away? Are you yearning for more in life, sensing the weight of untapped potential, or hearing a deeper call? I offer a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, acknowledging the unpredictability of life and the complexity of human experiences. By leaning in toward our deepest emotions and fears with compassion and mindful awareness, we can embrace our inner wisdom to find liberation and relief from suffering. My approach is grounded in warmth, acceptance, presence, and non-judgment, allowing you to safely explore your identity, desires, and values.
(970) 394-3032 View (970) 394-3032
Photo of Jane Fineberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Fineberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424
I provide services to individuals, couples, and families. I practice a relationship-based psychodynamic approach to therapy. I am certified in EMDR and trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). I also offer clinical supervision and EMDR  consultation services for practitioners. From a range of evidence-based practices, I tailor therapy sessions to the needs of individual clients, finding creative solutions to match a client's unique challenges. I have been working in the mental health field since 2002, in wilderness therapy settings, community mental health systems, hospitals, palliative care, and private practice.
I provide services to individuals, couples, and families. I practice a relationship-based psychodynamic approach to therapy. I am certified in EMDR and trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). I also offer clinical supervision and EMDR  consultation services for practitioners. From a range of evidence-based practices, I tailor therapy sessions to the needs of individual clients, finding creative solutions to match a client's unique challenges. I have been working in the mental health field since 2002, in wilderness therapy settings, community mental health systems, hospitals, palliative care, and private practice.
(970) 519-5116 View (970) 519-5116
Photo of Michelle Ann Marzo - Marzo Counseling, LLC., MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marzo Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Taking New Clients. Please call for a consult so we can make sure I fit your needs! Telehealth or in person. Research shows the relationship with your therapist is the most effective therapy tool. I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative, validating environment to allow a person to explore their lives, learn and thrive.
Taking New Clients. Please call for a consult so we can make sure I fit your needs! Telehealth or in person. Research shows the relationship with your therapist is the most effective therapy tool. I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative, validating environment to allow a person to explore their lives, learn and thrive.
(970) 497-3107 View (970) 497-3107
Dr. Jeff Mahler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Not accepting new clients
Hello and thank you for considering my practice of psychology. With a main office in Evergreen and telehealth services for clients all over Colorado, I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My practice uses a collaborative model of treatment. I encourage my clients to be actively involved in their treatment. You would work with me to set treatment goals and give regular feedback on the therapy process. My extensive experience with various treatment approaches, helps me to select techniques that are effective for various emotional problems. Please call or email me with any specific questions.
Hello and thank you for considering my practice of psychology. With a main office in Evergreen and telehealth services for clients all over Colorado, I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My practice uses a collaborative model of treatment. I encourage my clients to be actively involved in their treatment. You would work with me to set treatment goals and give regular feedback on the therapy process. My extensive experience with various treatment approaches, helps me to select techniques that are effective for various emotional problems. Please call or email me with any specific questions.
(303) 670-4280 View (303) 670-4280
Photo of Jessica Nelsen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Nelsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
I am available for 15 minute consultations and have a short waitlist for referrals and new prospective clients. Previous clients may contact me for immediate availability.
I am available for 15 minute consultations and have a short waitlist for referrals and new prospective clients. Previous clients may contact me for immediate availability.
(970) 410-2098 View (970) 410-2098
Photo of Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual), MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
(205) 953-4747 View (205) 953-4747
Photo of Sammy Charytoniuk, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sammy Charytoniuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424  (Online Only)
Starting your therapeutic process is a brave endeavor and I am grateful for the opportunity to meet with you. If you struggle with self-worth, perfectionism, and people pleasing tendencies I'd love to work with you! Some of my specialty areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma and Life Transitions.
Starting your therapeutic process is a brave endeavor and I am grateful for the opportunity to meet with you. If you struggle with self-worth, perfectionism, and people pleasing tendencies I'd love to work with you! Some of my specialty areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma and Life Transitions.
(970) 840-2016 View (970) 840-2016
Photo of Hannah Olszewski, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Olszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Available Weekday Morning/Mid-day only. I believe counseling is one of the greatest forms of self-care. There are times when we can lose our clarity in life and need assistance. I want to create a safe, non-judgemental place for clients to process their experience. Sometimes the fears, frustrations and areas of getting stuck in life can be difficult to navigate alone. I hope to give you the tools for living life in congruence with your true and best self. I seek balance and allowance for all of the parts of ourselves. I promote self-awareness to improve self-care, confidence and direction.
Available Weekday Morning/Mid-day only. I believe counseling is one of the greatest forms of self-care. There are times when we can lose our clarity in life and need assistance. I want to create a safe, non-judgemental place for clients to process their experience. Sometimes the fears, frustrations and areas of getting stuck in life can be difficult to navigate alone. I hope to give you the tools for living life in congruence with your true and best self. I seek balance and allowance for all of the parts of ourselves. I promote self-awareness to improve self-care, confidence and direction.
(970) 818-5851 View (970) 818-5851
Photo of Carlye Kopp, MEd, LPCC
Carlye Kopp
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Breckenridge, CO 80424  (Online Only)
I have experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Life Transitions, Grief & Loss, LGBTQIA+ communities & more. I believe that people from all walks of life can benefit from therapy. In my work with clients, like you, I hold the belief that authenticity, positive regard, collaboration, and humor can create positive change in the lives of others. My goal is to create a safe space for you to experience healing. I believe that each client has an individualized lens of the world, based on their past & present experiences. With this being said, I work to understand the identities, experiences, & beliefs that each client holds.
I have experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Life Transitions, Grief & Loss, LGBTQIA+ communities & more. I believe that people from all walks of life can benefit from therapy. In my work with clients, like you, I hold the belief that authenticity, positive regard, collaboration, and humor can create positive change in the lives of others. My goal is to create a safe space for you to experience healing. I believe that each client has an individualized lens of the world, based on their past & present experiences. With this being said, I work to understand the identities, experiences, & beliefs that each client holds.
(720) 644-4340 View (720) 644-4340
Photo of Anne Brubacher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Brubacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is like me as a person: straightforward, engaged, and practical. I use humor when appropriate and try to have as good a time as possible with the process. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the model I work from most while always having the Solution-Focused model in mind. I work with adults and young adults on issues including anxiety, relationships, communication, decision making, transitions, anger management, self confidence, depression, and contentment.
My approach to therapy is like me as a person: straightforward, engaged, and practical. I use humor when appropriate and try to have as good a time as possible with the process. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the model I work from most while always having the Solution-Focused model in mind. I work with adults and young adults on issues including anxiety, relationships, communication, decision making, transitions, anger management, self confidence, depression, and contentment.
(720) 419-1024 View (720) 419-1024
Photo of Jane Ambro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Ambro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Breckenridge, CO 80424
You may have tried talk therapy in the past and now feel stuck. You may be looking for a different approach to heal difficult feelings or trauma or to re-program old stories and beliefs and move past what holds you back from the life you truly deserve. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is a form of therapy that can help people go deeper into their experiences and heal at a subconscious level, achieving longer-lasting change. Ketamine is a safe, legal medicine that can induce psychedelic states in a gentle way. It is a dissociative and can create a sense of safety and distance from experiences that may be avoided during talk therapy.
You may have tried talk therapy in the past and now feel stuck. You may be looking for a different approach to heal difficult feelings or trauma or to re-program old stories and beliefs and move past what holds you back from the life you truly deserve. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is a form of therapy that can help people go deeper into their experiences and heal at a subconscious level, achieving longer-lasting change. Ketamine is a safe, legal medicine that can induce psychedelic states in a gentle way. It is a dissociative and can create a sense of safety and distance from experiences that may be avoided during talk therapy.
(970) 293-5125 View (970) 293-5125
1

See more therapy options for 80424

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 80424

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 80424 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
83% Self Esteem
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Stress
70% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

66% Other
56% Aetna
47% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 80424 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 80424?

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.