Photo of Courtney Swanson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
My name is Courtney Farrell Swanson, and I am an LCSW. I provide strengths-based, client-centered therapy. I believe that connection is an important part of the therapeutic relationship, whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, psychosis, PTSD or other traumas. I have worked with a wide spectrum of mental health issues, ranging from mild depression and anxiety to severe mental illness, as well as co-occurring disorders. I have worked with many clients from the LGBTQIA community, as well as all age groups. I prefer transitional-aged youth to the elderly population.
My name is Courtney Farrell Swanson, and I am an LCSW. I provide strengths-based, client-centered therapy. I believe that connection is an important part of the therapeutic relationship, whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, psychosis, PTSD or other traumas. I have worked with a wide spectrum of mental health issues, ranging from mild depression and anxiety to severe mental illness, as well as co-occurring disorders. I have worked with many clients from the LGBTQIA community, as well as all age groups. I prefer transitional-aged youth to the elderly population.
(858) 434-1428 View (858) 434-1428
Photo of Lorrie L Frost, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lorrie L Frost
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Daily life can sometimes feel overwhelming, or even impossible. Together you and I will work to identify where you are struggling in finding the fulfilling life you want to live, and develop a new plan that fills you with confidence to take the next steps on your life journey. We will explore what you want out of life and how to get there. As our lives shift, sometimes we want to make changes, but are unsure where to start. If you are struggling with what to do next, and are looking for ways to move through difficult life transitions to a place of self-confidence, I can help.
Daily life can sometimes feel overwhelming, or even impossible. Together you and I will work to identify where you are struggling in finding the fulfilling life you want to live, and develop a new plan that fills you with confidence to take the next steps on your life journey. We will explore what you want out of life and how to get there. As our lives shift, sometimes we want to make changes, but are unsure where to start. If you are struggling with what to do next, and are looking for ways to move through difficult life transitions to a place of self-confidence, I can help.
(858) 331-8109 View (858) 331-8109
Photo of Roseann Larson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roseann Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Because each person is different, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Ultimately, the right therapist can help you develop a greater sense of peace and self-fulfillment. So it is important to choose someone with whom you feel safe; someone who will listen, empathize, and respect your needs; and someone with the skills necessary to support you in reaching your goals. In the process, you will acquire greater self-awareness, and learn to cope more effectively with life issues. This is my approach to therapy.
Because each person is different, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Ultimately, the right therapist can help you develop a greater sense of peace and self-fulfillment. So it is important to choose someone with whom you feel safe; someone who will listen, empathize, and respect your needs; and someone with the skills necessary to support you in reaching your goals. In the process, you will acquire greater self-awareness, and learn to cope more effectively with life issues. This is my approach to therapy.
(619) 722-3116 View (619) 722-3116
Photo of Andrew Thomas Brandon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Thomas Brandon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I bring an open, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach to therapy. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I started my career as an HIV test counselor, supporting people through what can be a scary and difficult time. I later earned my master's in social work from San Diego State University, where my area of study was community mental health. Serving the community and connecting with individuals has been a driving force in my career. I know it is really difficult to be human. My values of compassion and empathy drive me to do this work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I bring an open, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach to therapy. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I started my career as an HIV test counselor, supporting people through what can be a scary and difficult time. I later earned my master's in social work from San Diego State University, where my area of study was community mental health. Serving the community and connecting with individuals has been a driving force in my career. I know it is really difficult to be human. My values of compassion and empathy drive me to do this work.
(858) 330-5520 View (858) 330-5520
Photo of Rachyl Nyoka, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachyl Nyoka
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Healing is not linear. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to heal from the same things more than once. Since we're always learning and growing, it's necessary to stop and ask ourselves at times if we agree with what we've learned and carried. Whether struggling to cope with a changing world, finding difficulty navigating your relationships, or specific concerns like anxiety, depression, or unresolved traumas, I'll encourage and support you as you commit to exploring and challenging your own attitudes, ideas, stories, and beliefs.
Healing is not linear. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to heal from the same things more than once. Since we're always learning and growing, it's necessary to stop and ask ourselves at times if we agree with what we've learned and carried. Whether struggling to cope with a changing world, finding difficulty navigating your relationships, or specific concerns like anxiety, depression, or unresolved traumas, I'll encourage and support you as you commit to exploring and challenging your own attitudes, ideas, stories, and beliefs.
(619) 492-2232 View (619) 492-2232
Photo of Meagan McKinstry - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
(858) 264-0917 View (858) 264-0917
Photo of Emily Gaines, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Gaines
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, past traumas or life changes can present roadblocks that negatively impact your life. Does that sound familiar to what you are experiencing? It can feel hopeless and overwhelming when faced with these roadblocks, but I can help you. I work with individuals and families to assess what issues are impacting your life, then we collaboratively develop a plan to navigate a path of healing.
Depression, anxiety, past traumas or life changes can present roadblocks that negatively impact your life. Does that sound familiar to what you are experiencing? It can feel hopeless and overwhelming when faced with these roadblocks, but I can help you. I work with individuals and families to assess what issues are impacting your life, then we collaboratively develop a plan to navigate a path of healing.
(530) 680-1874 View (530) 680-1874
Photo of Shami Benjamin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shami Benjamin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Specializing in therapy and mindset coaching for people who work and perform in environments that call them towards operating at a higher level. I work 1:1 as well as with groups around anxiety, stress management, leadership, management, relationships and navigating the need for consistency and showing up well. Some of my clients include, managers, engineers, influencers across industries, entertainment professionals, pro/college athletes and executives. I provide mental performance coaching globally. I also provide therapy throughout CA. My website: www.fitmind.team Instagram: fitmindperformance
Specializing in therapy and mindset coaching for people who work and perform in environments that call them towards operating at a higher level. I work 1:1 as well as with groups around anxiety, stress management, leadership, management, relationships and navigating the need for consistency and showing up well. Some of my clients include, managers, engineers, influencers across industries, entertainment professionals, pro/college athletes and executives. I provide mental performance coaching globally. I also provide therapy throughout CA. My website: www.fitmind.team Instagram: fitmindperformance
(858) 544-2269 View (858) 544-2269
Photo of Ashley Mullica, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Mullica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Please note new office location in San Diego! Are. you tired of feeling stuck, lost, or anxious? Have you experienced a recent loss or are you struggling with relationship difficulties? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or trauma? I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where a healthy therapeutic relationship is built so that you can work towards overcoming these obstacles! I will collaborate with you to help achieve your goals and provide honest feedback and practical, straightforward, and effective interventions. I view each client as unique and adapt my approach to meet your individualized needs.
Please note new office location in San Diego! Are. you tired of feeling stuck, lost, or anxious? Have you experienced a recent loss or are you struggling with relationship difficulties? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or trauma? I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where a healthy therapeutic relationship is built so that you can work towards overcoming these obstacles! I will collaborate with you to help achieve your goals and provide honest feedback and practical, straightforward, and effective interventions. I view each client as unique and adapt my approach to meet your individualized needs.
(760) 407-2827 View (760) 407-2827
Photo of Marni Stueland, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marni Stueland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy for over 25 years. I graduated from The University of Southern California in 1994 and received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at The University of San Diego in 1997. My focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My goal is to bring a sense of warmth and compassion to the therapy process, valuing a focus on each individual's strengths and resiliency. I bring my clinical knowledge as well as my personal life experiences to the therapy process.
I have been working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy for over 25 years. I graduated from The University of Southern California in 1994 and received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at The University of San Diego in 1997. My focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My goal is to bring a sense of warmth and compassion to the therapy process, valuing a focus on each individual's strengths and resiliency. I bring my clinical knowledge as well as my personal life experiences to the therapy process.
(858) 217-5840 View (858) 217-5840
Photo of Esmeralda Huizar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esmeralda Huizar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Hi there, I'm Esmeralda! I've been practicing for the last three years. I graduated from California State University San Bernardino with a Master's in Social Work. Lately, I've frequently been working with dual-diagnosis clients and enjoying the work. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. Motivational Interviewing is helpful when starting a therapeutic relationship to ensure the client's motive to seek treatment is understood.
Hi there, I'm Esmeralda! I've been practicing for the last three years. I graduated from California State University San Bernardino with a Master's in Social Work. Lately, I've frequently been working with dual-diagnosis clients and enjoying the work. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. Motivational Interviewing is helpful when starting a therapeutic relationship to ensure the client's motive to seek treatment is understood.
(858) 533-2513 View (858) 533-2513
Photo of Brenda Bridges, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenda Bridges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Hello, I'm Brenda! I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I will also genuinely provide support and hope, especially when your life seems to be more than you can handle.
Hello, I'm Brenda! I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I will also genuinely provide support and hope, especially when your life seems to be more than you can handle.
(858) 683-8776 View (858) 683-8776
Photo of Azita Hickey, PhD, Psychologist
Azita Hickey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist that utilizes evidenced based treatment modalities to help you manage stress, depression, anxiety, grief, identity conflicts, and perinatal mental health. I can help you navigate relationship difficulties, managing chronic stress, conquering perfectionism, and finding the balance you seek in life. Life is full of transitions, and I'm dedicated to being your support through them all, whether you're facing graduation, considering a career change, navigating the complexities of breakups and relationships, or dealing with the with the uncertainties of parenthood and fertility.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist that utilizes evidenced based treatment modalities to help you manage stress, depression, anxiety, grief, identity conflicts, and perinatal mental health. I can help you navigate relationship difficulties, managing chronic stress, conquering perfectionism, and finding the balance you seek in life. Life is full of transitions, and I'm dedicated to being your support through them all, whether you're facing graduation, considering a career change, navigating the complexities of breakups and relationships, or dealing with the with the uncertainties of parenthood and fertility.
(619) 771-0514 View (619) 771-0514
Photo of Daniel Sharer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Sharer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Hi there, I'm Daniel Sharer, LMFT89691. I pride myself on being non-judgmental and client centered. My goal is that a client feels a sense of hope that no matter the issue taking place that things can and will get better. I have experience working with adolescents 13 and older. However, I am comfortable working with adults at all ages.
Hi there, I'm Daniel Sharer, LMFT89691. I pride myself on being non-judgmental and client centered. My goal is that a client feels a sense of hope that no matter the issue taking place that things can and will get better. I have experience working with adolescents 13 and older. However, I am comfortable working with adults at all ages.
(858) 463-4898 View (858) 463-4898
Photo of Anat Mor Betzalel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anat Mor Betzalel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Life is full of surprises and not all should handle alone. It's human to feel overwhelmed with work demands, adapting to a new country, navigating peripartum, managing family life, or facing relationship challenges. It's challenging to experience self-doubt or pursue unachievable perfection. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, trouble sleeping, or impacts of past traumas might arise, making life much more difficult. This is where therapy can make a significant difference, offering a space for self-reflection and strengthening your relationship with yourself and others.
Life is full of surprises and not all should handle alone. It's human to feel overwhelmed with work demands, adapting to a new country, navigating peripartum, managing family life, or facing relationship challenges. It's challenging to experience self-doubt or pursue unachievable perfection. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, trouble sleeping, or impacts of past traumas might arise, making life much more difficult. This is where therapy can make a significant difference, offering a space for self-reflection and strengthening your relationship with yourself and others.
(858) 215-2234 View (858) 215-2234
Photo of Jennifer B Lofft, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer B Lofft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
If you are here today because your teen or child is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, unmotivated, or your family is stuck in conflict; you are in the right place. Parenting a struggling child can be a frightening and isolating experience and you don't have to do it alone. Using your feelings of fear, frustration, and maybe grief; to push for help and change, is pure courage. Returning to that place, where your child feels good again and your family feels like home, is a beautiful and realistic goal.
If you are here today because your teen or child is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, unmotivated, or your family is stuck in conflict; you are in the right place. Parenting a struggling child can be a frightening and isolating experience and you don't have to do it alone. Using your feelings of fear, frustration, and maybe grief; to push for help and change, is pure courage. Returning to that place, where your child feels good again and your family feels like home, is a beautiful and realistic goal.
(760) 573-2386 View (760) 573-2386
Photo of Marcia K Garceau, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcia K Garceau
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 15 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and solutions to overcome general anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias, depression, relationship problems, weight loss, other self-sabotaging behavior, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 15 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and solutions to overcome general anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias, depression, relationship problems, weight loss, other self-sabotaging behavior, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
(858) 281-2734 View (858) 281-2734
Photo of Sonia Aguilar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonia Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing as a clinician since 2006. Firstly, building a meaningful therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach. In individual, couples, and adolescent therapy sessions, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) skills along with mindfulness to recognize and reevaluate how previous life experiences have possibly negatively impacted your beliefs, coping skills, cognitions, emotions, and behaviors, which might be keeping you stuck in feelings of anxiety, depression or unhealthy ways of relating.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing as a clinician since 2006. Firstly, building a meaningful therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach. In individual, couples, and adolescent therapy sessions, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) skills along with mindfulness to recognize and reevaluate how previous life experiences have possibly negatively impacted your beliefs, coping skills, cognitions, emotions, and behaviors, which might be keeping you stuck in feelings of anxiety, depression or unhealthy ways of relating.
(858) 330-2996 View (858) 330-2996
Photo of Ziheng Song - Uplift Mandarin Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Uplift Mandarin Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Discover a world of healing and growth with Uplift Therapy, a non-profit mental health organization that offers expert care and unwavering privacy. Whether you're seeking personal growth, trauma support, or improved relationships, we stand beside you. We specialize in empowering students, youth, and professionals, addressing challenges related to school, career, relationships, and more. We also support individuals from immigrant backgrounds with their mental health needs.
Discover a world of healing and growth with Uplift Therapy, a non-profit mental health organization that offers expert care and unwavering privacy. Whether you're seeking personal growth, trauma support, or improved relationships, we stand beside you. We specialize in empowering students, youth, and professionals, addressing challenges related to school, career, relationships, and more. We also support individuals from immigrant backgrounds with their mental health needs.
(201) 625-1958 View (201) 625-1958
Photo of Mirna Mejia, PhD, Psychologist
Mirna Mejia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to help every client achieve a more balanced and meaningful life. Whether it's by helping you sleep better, manage your pain more effectively, or facilitate the healing process following a trauma, my aim is to ease suffering and get you back on track to health & resiliency.
My goal as a therapist is to help every client achieve a more balanced and meaningful life. Whether it's by helping you sleep better, manage your pain more effectively, or facilitate the healing process following a trauma, my aim is to ease suffering and get you back on track to health & resiliency.
(858) 667-4150 View (858) 667-4150

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92129

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 92129 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
87% Depression
70% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief
63% Self Esteem
59% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 92129 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92129?

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.