Photo of James Durell Wells - Jim Wells / (CPTS) Counseling & Play Therapy Svc, MA, LCMHC, RPT, TFCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim Wells / (CPTS) Counseling & Play Therapy Svc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT, TFCBT
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
Taking the initial step to call can be difficult. It's scary to reach out for support, especially if it hasn't been there in the past. Those feelings of doubt usually go away after making that call and beginning to tell your story. Counseling is a place of acceptance where you can learn to see your true value. You hold the keys to your happiness. You just need support to unlock that door. Doing it alone will keep you stuck. You can learn to trust again. Begin your healing and personal growth, call today for a free consultation.
Taking the initial step to call can be difficult. It's scary to reach out for support, especially if it hasn't been there in the past. Those feelings of doubt usually go away after making that call and beginning to tell your story. Counseling is a place of acceptance where you can learn to see your true value. You hold the keys to your happiness. You just need support to unlock that door. Doing it alone will keep you stuck. You can learn to trust again. Begin your healing and personal growth, call today for a free consultation.
(704) 469-5390 View (704) 469-5390
Photo of Meagan C Mccabe, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meagan C Mccabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115  (Online Only)
I am honored to be able to provide therapy for individuals and couples throughout North Carolina. With over 12 years of experience, I am dedicated to practicing with the utmost integrity in order to create a safe, collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work from a strength-based and client-centered stance that focuses on helping my clients create healthy and holistic relationships with themselves and others. To quote Brene Brown, I believe that "owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do” and my job is to walk with you and guide you through that process.
I am honored to be able to provide therapy for individuals and couples throughout North Carolina. With over 12 years of experience, I am dedicated to practicing with the utmost integrity in order to create a safe, collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work from a strength-based and client-centered stance that focuses on helping my clients create healthy and holistic relationships with themselves and others. To quote Brene Brown, I believe that "owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do” and my job is to walk with you and guide you through that process.
(910) 302-5392 View (910) 302-5392
Photo of Southern Family Medicine - Southern Family Medicine, Inc, LCAS, LCSW, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Southern Family Medicine, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAS, LCSW, LCMHC
Not Verified Not Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
When you are facing difficulties in your life, it's important to receive treatment that addresses all your needs. At Southern Family Medicine we believe treating the whole person is essential for positive health outcomes. We have three locations, Mooresville, Mocksville and High Point and we offer services and professionals to address not only your social/emotional well being but your physical needs as well.
When you are facing difficulties in your life, it's important to receive treatment that addresses all your needs. At Southern Family Medicine we believe treating the whole person is essential for positive health outcomes. We have three locations, Mooresville, Mocksville and High Point and we offer services and professionals to address not only your social/emotional well being but your physical needs as well.
(704) 360-8486 View (704) 360-8486
Photo of Rawson Ashworth Carlin, D, Min, LPC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rawson Ashworth Carlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, D, Min, LPC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
I enjoy helping clients with addiction, marriage, relationship problems, grief issues, gambling problems, anger problems, depression, anxiety and spiritual issues find solutions and live a better quality of life.
I enjoy helping clients with addiction, marriage, relationship problems, grief issues, gambling problems, anger problems, depression, anxiety and spiritual issues find solutions and live a better quality of life.
(704) 419-8864 View (704) 419-8864
Photo of Ann Bennett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Are the communication and connection in your marriage or relationship less than ideal or missing altogether? Or maybe you have more conflict than friendship and you're just feeling stuck. Perhaps you struggle with feeling anxious or overwhelmed and you are ready for a change. I offer a free consultation to new clients to discuss how I can help you achieve your goals, even if you don't know exactly what those goals are yet. In addition to traditional sessions, I now offer intensives for couples looking to jump-start their healing. For premarital counseling, this is a fun, productive way to start your journey with a strong foundation.
Are the communication and connection in your marriage or relationship less than ideal or missing altogether? Or maybe you have more conflict than friendship and you're just feeling stuck. Perhaps you struggle with feeling anxious or overwhelmed and you are ready for a change. I offer a free consultation to new clients to discuss how I can help you achieve your goals, even if you don't know exactly what those goals are yet. In addition to traditional sessions, I now offer intensives for couples looking to jump-start their healing. For premarital counseling, this is a fun, productive way to start your journey with a strong foundation.
(704) 753-8013 View (704) 753-8013
Photo of Mary Doub, LCMHCS, Counselor
Mary Doub
Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in NC. I have many years of experience with children, adults, and ACTT team and inpatient unit experience. I would like to use this experience and my licensure as a supervisor to aid those who are LCMHCAs in meeting their licensure requirements. I am available in the Mooresville area and online.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in NC. I have many years of experience with children, adults, and ACTT team and inpatient unit experience. I would like to use this experience and my licensure as a supervisor to aid those who are LCMHCAs in meeting their licensure requirements. I am available in the Mooresville area and online.
(980) 414-6211 View (980) 414-6211
Photo of Vincent Ketchie, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vincent Ketchie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
After an affair or other rough patch, I help couples restore their marriage. I give specific homework tailored for each couple to work on rebuilding their relationship. I guide the husband and wife in developing healthy communication patterns. I strive to model grace and truth in my counseling by delicately addressing problems - sexual addictions, emotional affairs, workaholism, alcoholism, perfectionism, control issues, rage issues, etc. I am direct and have a structured approach for each couple. The work is hard, but good. My couples who do the work, stay together and have a thriving marriage.
After an affair or other rough patch, I help couples restore their marriage. I give specific homework tailored for each couple to work on rebuilding their relationship. I guide the husband and wife in developing healthy communication patterns. I strive to model grace and truth in my counseling by delicately addressing problems - sexual addictions, emotional affairs, workaholism, alcoholism, perfectionism, control issues, rage issues, etc. I am direct and have a structured approach for each couple. The work is hard, but good. My couples who do the work, stay together and have a thriving marriage.
(704) 946-6432 View (704) 946-6432
Photo of Dawn Johnson - Turning Point Family Services, LCMHC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turning Point Family Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
Turning Point Family Services offers a variety of outpatient services. These services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, comprehensive clinical assessments, and psychiatric medication management. These services are customized to meet the needs of the children and families that we serve, and can be conducted via telehealth as well.
Turning Point Family Services offers a variety of outpatient services. These services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, comprehensive clinical assessments, and psychiatric medication management. These services are customized to meet the needs of the children and families that we serve, and can be conducted via telehealth as well.
(704) 994-5460 View (704) 994-5460
Photo of Diana Moscoso, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Diana Moscoso
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
When life presents us with hardship is necessary to have someone walking alongside us to give a clear concept and provide us with options. I strive to offer compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental environment where clients can be themselves. As a native South American counselor, I understand and care for adjustment, cultural, injustice, racial, and adaptation issues. I specialize in grief, divorce, immigration, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. When requested, I offer spiritual guidance through Christian principles in order to improve quality of life. Ofrezco consejeria en tu idioma, conmigo recibiras apoyo y orientacion.
When life presents us with hardship is necessary to have someone walking alongside us to give a clear concept and provide us with options. I strive to offer compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental environment where clients can be themselves. As a native South American counselor, I understand and care for adjustment, cultural, injustice, racial, and adaptation issues. I specialize in grief, divorce, immigration, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. When requested, I offer spiritual guidance through Christian principles in order to improve quality of life. Ofrezco consejeria en tu idioma, conmigo recibiras apoyo y orientacion.
(704) 870-3331 View (704) 870-3331
Photo of Erin Corbett, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Corbett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
I founded Eunoia Counseling & Consulting so that I could serve my community in an integrative way. I believe that we all get the most out of life when we are operating from our strengths and giving back in a meaningful way. My practice is built on that idea: we all matter and deserve support. In my previous experiences in agency and private practice employment, I often struggled with feeling overworked, underpaid, and unappreciated. As a result, I want to provide an environment where my clients and my associates feel valued, enhanced, and supported. For more info visit www.eunoiacc.com
I founded Eunoia Counseling & Consulting so that I could serve my community in an integrative way. I believe that we all get the most out of life when we are operating from our strengths and giving back in a meaningful way. My practice is built on that idea: we all matter and deserve support. In my previous experiences in agency and private practice employment, I often struggled with feeling overworked, underpaid, and unappreciated. As a result, I want to provide an environment where my clients and my associates feel valued, enhanced, and supported. For more info visit www.eunoiacc.com
(980) 372-4108 View (980) 372-4108
Photo of Anna M Soper, Ma Edu, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Anna M Soper
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Ma Edu, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115  (Online Only)
Trust, respect, safety and *authenticity* seems to be the most vital components to any relationship, especially the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. My personal philosophies encourage my therapeutic approach of providing a warm and safe environment where you feel like you can be YOU! Creating an atmosphere of no judgment, is of the utmost important to me in working with you as a client. I respect honesty and ensure to provide you the same so that you grow. We may laugh, we may cry, but we will leave feeling a little lighter (insert winky face).
Trust, respect, safety and *authenticity* seems to be the most vital components to any relationship, especially the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. My personal philosophies encourage my therapeutic approach of providing a warm and safe environment where you feel like you can be YOU! Creating an atmosphere of no judgment, is of the utmost important to me in working with you as a client. I respect honesty and ensure to provide you the same so that you grow. We may laugh, we may cry, but we will leave feeling a little lighter (insert winky face).
(704) 980-9585 View (704) 980-9585
Photo of Stephanie deKeyzer, MA
Stephanie deKeyzer
MA
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
As a postpartum wellness coach, I understand the challenges and rewards that come with the arrival of a new baby. Navigating the postpartum period can be both emotionally and physically demanding, and finding the right support is crucial. I am deeply passionate about supporting mothers on their journey into motherhood, whether it's for the first time, or the fifth. I aim to create a nurturing space where mothers feel heard and understood. My academic background equips me with a profound understanding of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, empowering me to guide women through the unique challenges of the postpartum period.
As a postpartum wellness coach, I understand the challenges and rewards that come with the arrival of a new baby. Navigating the postpartum period can be both emotionally and physically demanding, and finding the right support is crucial. I am deeply passionate about supporting mothers on their journey into motherhood, whether it's for the first time, or the fifth. I aim to create a nurturing space where mothers feel heard and understood. My academic background equips me with a profound understanding of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, empowering me to guide women through the unique challenges of the postpartum period.
(980) 983-6092 View (980) 983-6092
Photo of Laura Ketchie, MA, LPC
Laura Ketchie
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Life can be difficult, but people are resilient. My counseling approach towards each individual is strength-based. I believe that everyone has positive qualities and strengths. Sometimes, it just may be hard for someone to recognize when they are going through a hard time. My job is to come alongside my clients in a safe environment where my clients can share their feelings without being judged. I will help to point out any faulty thinking or behavioral patterns that may be causing difficulties in life. I mainly work with women struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma histories.
Life can be difficult, but people are resilient. My counseling approach towards each individual is strength-based. I believe that everyone has positive qualities and strengths. Sometimes, it just may be hard for someone to recognize when they are going through a hard time. My job is to come alongside my clients in a safe environment where my clients can share their feelings without being judged. I will help to point out any faulty thinking or behavioral patterns that may be causing difficulties in life. I mainly work with women struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma histories.
(704) 504-7991 View (704) 504-7991
A Loving Hand Counseling Service
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Growing up is hard and becomes even more difficult when you are dealing with emotional and social problems. I will work directly with you, parents, school, and community to provide the most comprehensive service available.
Growing up is hard and becomes even more difficult when you are dealing with emotional and social problems. I will work directly with you, parents, school, and community to provide the most comprehensive service available.
(704) 310-5561 View (704) 310-5561
Photo of Pamela J Meeds, PsyD, Psychologist
Pamela J Meeds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
Not accepting new clients
How we think dramatically influences how we feel and ultimately how we respond to the crises in our lives. And this is good news. You can feel better. You can learn to be relaxed and focused in your work and family life. You can feel energetic and loving in your self expression and interactions with others. Through supportive and interactive psychotherapy, you will develop insight and creativity in resolving problems and fulfilling your purpose. I will help you regain control of your emotions and your life by teaching you techniques for releasing stress and negativity, changing your thinking, shifting your perspective, and restoring your confidence.
How we think dramatically influences how we feel and ultimately how we respond to the crises in our lives. And this is good news. You can feel better. You can learn to be relaxed and focused in your work and family life. You can feel energetic and loving in your self expression and interactions with others. Through supportive and interactive psychotherapy, you will develop insight and creativity in resolving problems and fulfilling your purpose. I will help you regain control of your emotions and your life by teaching you techniques for releasing stress and negativity, changing your thinking, shifting your perspective, and restoring your confidence.
(704) 469-5207 View (704) 469-5207
Photo of Meredith McDaniel, LCMHC, QS
Meredith McDaniel
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Meredith is a trauma-informed, somatic EMDR trained, Licensed Counselor & Supervisor with vast experience counseling adolescents, women, men, couples, & families over 20+ years with Young Life & in her private practice, Milk + Honey Counseling. Focusing on trauma, grief/loss, anxiety/depression, & relational conflict, all through a lens of STORY, Meredith helps people discover their true identity + live vibrant lives. She longs for people to find more balance & joy by offering HOPE in somewhat dark places. Meredith has completed additional training in: Narrative Focused Trauma Care, Internal Family Systems, & Suicide Bereavement.
Meredith is a trauma-informed, somatic EMDR trained, Licensed Counselor & Supervisor with vast experience counseling adolescents, women, men, couples, & families over 20+ years with Young Life & in her private practice, Milk + Honey Counseling. Focusing on trauma, grief/loss, anxiety/depression, & relational conflict, all through a lens of STORY, Meredith helps people discover their true identity + live vibrant lives. She longs for people to find more balance & joy by offering HOPE in somewhat dark places. Meredith has completed additional training in: Narrative Focused Trauma Care, Internal Family Systems, & Suicide Bereavement.
(704) 326-4410 View (704) 326-4410
Photo of Megan Quackenbush, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Quackenbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Are you a mom trying to navigate motherhood? Maybe you have just given birth and are in the thick of sleep deprivation and are wondering when you will be able to sleep again, or maybe you're navigating the complex territory of pregnancy loss or grief and the joy you anticipated feels difficult to find. Feelings of hopelessness, loss of identity, loneliness, anger, anxiety and depression are all crippling emotions experienced far too often in motherhood. Mama, please know that you are not alone.
Are you a mom trying to navigate motherhood? Maybe you have just given birth and are in the thick of sleep deprivation and are wondering when you will be able to sleep again, or maybe you're navigating the complex territory of pregnancy loss or grief and the joy you anticipated feels difficult to find. Feelings of hopelessness, loss of identity, loneliness, anger, anxiety and depression are all crippling emotions experienced far too often in motherhood. Mama, please know that you are not alone.
(704) 610-0944 View (704) 610-0944
Photo of Katie Hutto McIntosh - Mood and Food Connections, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mood and Food Connections, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, my goal is to provide a supportive and empowering approach to therapy that will create lasting change in my clients lives, help them manage symptoms and live optimally. When you or someone you love is in crisis, choosing to find a therapist is the best decision. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment. I provide support and healing to those experiencing difficult life transitions such as anxiety, depression, women in transition, individuals with weight related issues, self-esteem, family dynamics or other problems that arent easy to get through alone.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide a supportive and empowering approach to therapy that will create lasting change in my clients lives, help them manage symptoms and live optimally. When you or someone you love is in crisis, choosing to find a therapist is the best decision. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment. I provide support and healing to those experiencing difficult life transitions such as anxiety, depression, women in transition, individuals with weight related issues, self-esteem, family dynamics or other problems that arent easy to get through alone.
(704) 751-1283 View (704) 751-1283
Photo of Melody Ann Mattingly - Relaxed Therapy PLLC, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Relaxed Therapy PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, symptoms related to trauma, adjustment issues, drug and/or alcohol addictions; you deserve to receive the help you need. Anyone can benefit from therapeutic support to reach their goals for their mental health.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, symptoms related to trauma, adjustment issues, drug and/or alcohol addictions; you deserve to receive the help you need. Anyone can benefit from therapeutic support to reach their goals for their mental health.
(704) 324-3719 View (704) 324-3719
Photo of Shawn Booth - Lake Norman Therapy Lounge, LCMHC
Lake Norman Therapy Lounge
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
Finding a therapist that you can relate to may be the most important part of therapy. My goal is to create an environment where you feel safe and supported, so that you can open up and get the most out of your sessions. Sometimes starting this process can seem a little overwhelming. Maybe you're not sure where to begin with all of this. Maybe you're feeling a little anxious, or perhaps you suffer from "analysis paralysis." I've been there myself, and I'm here to help.
Finding a therapist that you can relate to may be the most important part of therapy. My goal is to create an environment where you feel safe and supported, so that you can open up and get the most out of your sessions. Sometimes starting this process can seem a little overwhelming. Maybe you're not sure where to begin with all of this. Maybe you're feeling a little anxious, or perhaps you suffer from "analysis paralysis." I've been there myself, and I'm here to help.
(980) 391-6716 View (980) 391-6716

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28115

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 28115 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Relationship Issues
63% Self Esteem
62% Grief
60% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 28115 see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28115?

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.