Therapists in Bentonville, AR

Photo of Kellye A Gautier, MS, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kellye A Gautier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Not accepting new clients
Pain pushes us to change, and comes in many forms; depression, anxiety symptoms, feelings of inadequacy, grief, anger, fear, or hopelessness. How we respond to change will ultimately put us on a healing journey, or keep us standing still. As your therapist, I offer you a safe environment to tell your truth, and explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. If you’ve experienced physical/sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, complicated trauma, and/or anger issues, let’s talk! I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. I am a graduate of John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR with dual licensure.
Pain pushes us to change, and comes in many forms; depression, anxiety symptoms, feelings of inadequacy, grief, anger, fear, or hopelessness. How we respond to change will ultimately put us on a healing journey, or keep us standing still. As your therapist, I offer you a safe environment to tell your truth, and explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. If you’ve experienced physical/sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, complicated trauma, and/or anger issues, let’s talk! I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. I am a graduate of John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR with dual licensure.
(479) 668-3436 View (479) 668-3436
Photo of Terrie Barton - Waters Edge Counseling Rogers/Fayetteville, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Waters Edge Counseling Rogers/Fayetteville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
At Water's Edge Counseling Services, our aim is to connect with our clients wherever they may be in their journey. If you or someone you know is grappling with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of relationship difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of experienced therapists is ready to offer support through either in-office sessions or telehealth appointments. Your well-being is important to us, and we are here to assist you on the path to emotional wellness.
At Water's Edge Counseling Services, our aim is to connect with our clients wherever they may be in their journey. If you or someone you know is grappling with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of relationship difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of experienced therapists is ready to offer support through either in-office sessions or telehealth appointments. Your well-being is important to us, and we are here to assist you on the path to emotional wellness.
(479) 282-2633 View (479) 282-2633
Photo of Jordan P Applegate, LAMFT, LAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordan P Applegate
Marriage & Family Therapist, LAMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
You've been in an office all day, and probably the last thing you want to do is go to another office and talk about problems. My goal is to do therapy differently when possible, whether that means going outdoors and taking a walk or meeting from the comfort of your own home via secured telehealth. Either way, you'll experience evidence-based treatment in a new way. Check out my website for more about what to expect. If you need one-on-one care, we can do that. If you're on a budget, check out my Jaunts, which incorporate hiking and groups at a lower rate.
You've been in an office all day, and probably the last thing you want to do is go to another office and talk about problems. My goal is to do therapy differently when possible, whether that means going outdoors and taking a walk or meeting from the comfort of your own home via secured telehealth. Either way, you'll experience evidence-based treatment in a new way. Check out my website for more about what to expect. If you need one-on-one care, we can do that. If you're on a budget, check out my Jaunts, which incorporate hiking and groups at a lower rate.
(479) 239-8983 View (479) 239-8983
Photo of Katherine C Shook, LCSW
Katherine C Shook
LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults, seniors, children and families. If you (or a loved one) are feeling depressed, anxious, or have sleep disturbances, low self-esteem, relationship issues or are in crisis, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to explore self-defeating patterns or incoherent beliefs to help you to restore harmony to your life. Frequently small changes can have a big impact
I work with adults, seniors, children and families. If you (or a loved one) are feeling depressed, anxious, or have sleep disturbances, low self-esteem, relationship issues or are in crisis, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to explore self-defeating patterns or incoherent beliefs to help you to restore harmony to your life. Frequently small changes can have a big impact
(479) 721-1788 View (479) 721-1788
Photo of Nancy D Harris, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy D Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am a Licensed Profession Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have been established in the NWA area for some time now. I enjoy working with individuals and families to resolve life issues. I have assisted many people with change, reducing stress and to manage their challenges. I establish healthy, supportive, encouraging relationships with those I work with. I accept ages 10 and up. I am credentialed with all major insurances. Please call to initiate a consultation appointment.
I am a Licensed Profession Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have been established in the NWA area for some time now. I enjoy working with individuals and families to resolve life issues. I have assisted many people with change, reducing stress and to manage their challenges. I establish healthy, supportive, encouraging relationships with those I work with. I accept ages 10 and up. I am credentialed with all major insurances. Please call to initiate a consultation appointment.
(479) 777-4661 View (479) 777-4661
Photo of Marisa Gilbreth, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisa Gilbreth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Marisa values compassion and connection in the counseling office. Marisa aims to help those that sit with her to answer the questions that led them to counseling, as well as experience the change and healing they've been searching for. She believes that each person is created for healthy relationship and prioritizes working to build such with those in her office. She especially enjoys working with young women (ages 16-35) who are struggling with family of origin issues, stressful life transitions, co-dependency, trauma, and more.
Marisa values compassion and connection in the counseling office. Marisa aims to help those that sit with her to answer the questions that led them to counseling, as well as experience the change and healing they've been searching for. She believes that each person is created for healthy relationship and prioritizes working to build such with those in her office. She especially enjoys working with young women (ages 16-35) who are struggling with family of origin issues, stressful life transitions, co-dependency, trauma, and more.
(479) 439-9470 View (479) 439-9470
Photo of Chloe Zahn, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Chloe Zahn
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Chloe’s practice focuses on healing a client’s attachment and relationship wounds, providing a safe and secure presence for the client(s), and reframing or challenging a client’s inner critic. As a Certified Trauma Professional, Chloe has vast understanding of how past trauma impacts today’s well-being. She utilizes her studies as a CPT therapist and EFT techniques, along other techniques. Chloe, like all Wellness & Courage clinicians, is LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming.
Chloe’s practice focuses on healing a client’s attachment and relationship wounds, providing a safe and secure presence for the client(s), and reframing or challenging a client’s inner critic. As a Certified Trauma Professional, Chloe has vast understanding of how past trauma impacts today’s well-being. She utilizes her studies as a CPT therapist and EFT techniques, along other techniques. Chloe, like all Wellness & Courage clinicians, is LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming.
(479) 345-5164 View (479) 345-5164
Photo of Charles Baird, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Baird
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas. I offer video telehealth services to Arkansas residents in an inviting, professional environment. I see clients ages 18 years and older. I see individuals and couples. I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, issues unique to military, life adjustments and stress, couples counseling, divorce and co-parenting, and uncomplicated substance abuse disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas. I offer video telehealth services to Arkansas residents in an inviting, professional environment. I see clients ages 18 years and older. I see individuals and couples. I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, issues unique to military, life adjustments and stress, couples counseling, divorce and co-parenting, and uncomplicated substance abuse disorders.
(479) 364-4522 View (479) 364-4522
Photo of Johnna Quinn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Johnna Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
In a world that often demands perfection and criticizes vulnerability, self-compassion is the key to developing a strong sense of self-worth and emotional resilience. Johnna provides a nurturing environment to cultivate self-compassion, helping you develop a gentler and more loving attitude towards yourself. Through self-acceptance and forgiveness, you can let go of self-doubt, restore confidence, and embrace your own unique journey.
In a world that often demands perfection and criticizes vulnerability, self-compassion is the key to developing a strong sense of self-worth and emotional resilience. Johnna provides a nurturing environment to cultivate self-compassion, helping you develop a gentler and more loving attitude towards yourself. Through self-acceptance and forgiveness, you can let go of self-doubt, restore confidence, and embrace your own unique journey.
(479) 349-2752 View (479) 349-2752
Photo of Allie Wakefield, MS, LPE-I
Allie Wakefield
MS, LPE-I
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
When times get tough, we all need compassionate support and lots of coping skills! Allow me to help you through the hard times while teaching effective strategies to calm the inner chaos. By learning to care for yourself and understand your struggles you will find true stability and control that can be sustained, no matter the circumstances. Teens, especially need to learn these skills in order to successfully launch into adulthood. I strive to equip each of my clients with a coping skills set early on in treatment. I am trained in EMDR for treating trauma. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
When times get tough, we all need compassionate support and lots of coping skills! Allow me to help you through the hard times while teaching effective strategies to calm the inner chaos. By learning to care for yourself and understand your struggles you will find true stability and control that can be sustained, no matter the circumstances. Teens, especially need to learn these skills in order to successfully launch into adulthood. I strive to equip each of my clients with a coping skills set early on in treatment. I am trained in EMDR for treating trauma. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
(417) 815-0738 View (417) 815-0738
Photo of Gayla Spence, MSMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gayla Spence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. I understand life challenges are different for everyone because we all experience events and phases of life differently. Adjusting to changes in life and relationships or coming to terms with your past can be overwhelming. Empowering you is the most important part of counseling. My goal is to be a team with you if you are looking for growth, change, and a new way of perceiving and receiving life. It takes courage to come to therapy and open up to change whether it be as an individual, couple or a family.
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. I understand life challenges are different for everyone because we all experience events and phases of life differently. Adjusting to changes in life and relationships or coming to terms with your past can be overwhelming. Empowering you is the most important part of counseling. My goal is to be a team with you if you are looking for growth, change, and a new way of perceiving and receiving life. It takes courage to come to therapy and open up to change whether it be as an individual, couple or a family.
(479) 888-5658 View (479) 888-5658
Photo of Erich C Campbell, MS, LAC, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Erich C Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAC, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or struggling to find clarity in life's challenges? You might feel stuck again in a vicious cycle you can't break free of. It's okay to need help. Whether you're battling anxiety, relationship issues, navigating through grief, or simply seeking guidance on your journey to self-discovery, you deserve support. Your feelings are important information about your experience of the world. When we aren't congruent with our inner world we can experience a high level of distress. You do not have to stay stuck in this place. You want to see a positive, meaningful difference in the life you lead.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or struggling to find clarity in life's challenges? You might feel stuck again in a vicious cycle you can't break free of. It's okay to need help. Whether you're battling anxiety, relationship issues, navigating through grief, or simply seeking guidance on your journey to self-discovery, you deserve support. Your feelings are important information about your experience of the world. When we aren't congruent with our inner world we can experience a high level of distress. You do not have to stay stuck in this place. You want to see a positive, meaningful difference in the life you lead.
(479) 322-3063 View (479) 322-3063
Photo of Mary Ann Stewart, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ann Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I have a few summer openings right now! I am pleased to be part of a practice that specializes in neurodivergence, something near and dear to my heart and own lived experience. I believe you as the patient are the expert on your own life and you are the true pilot of your treatment. Therapy to me is collaborating with you to help you find ways to enjoy life more and feel encouraged to make changes, even when change is often so intimidating.
I have a few summer openings right now! I am pleased to be part of a practice that specializes in neurodivergence, something near and dear to my heart and own lived experience. I believe you as the patient are the expert on your own life and you are the true pilot of your treatment. Therapy to me is collaborating with you to help you find ways to enjoy life more and feel encouraged to make changes, even when change is often so intimidating.
(479) 385-0745 View (479) 385-0745
Photo of Summer Glass, LCSW, MSEd, ET, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd, ET
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I specialize in Equine Therapy as well as traditional office psychotherapy. I take a mindfulness approach to "holding space" for my clients. I also recently completed an externship and Core Skills in Emotion Focused Therapy which allows me to do some pretty tough work with couples seeking joint therapy. I am also undergoing supervision for Trauma Focused CBT.
I specialize in Equine Therapy as well as traditional office psychotherapy. I take a mindfulness approach to "holding space" for my clients. I also recently completed an externship and Core Skills in Emotion Focused Therapy which allows me to do some pretty tough work with couples seeking joint therapy. I am also undergoing supervision for Trauma Focused CBT.
(479) 341-5294 View (479) 341-5294
Photo of Aaron Levy, MSMFT, LPC, TA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC, TA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Love and Connection in life should not be confusing. But there is always a risk when it comes to getting those two critical human relational needs. Many times relationships feel like a dance, and feeling lost with no road map. It can often turn into division or discomfort, but does it always have to be that way? Emotionally Focused Therapy is a proven, evidence-based method that enhances couples' ability to gain Love and Connection through safety and security. And I would love to be that resource, coach, advocate to help partners sustain longevity in their relationship without leading to isolation or further hurt.
Love and Connection in life should not be confusing. But there is always a risk when it comes to getting those two critical human relational needs. Many times relationships feel like a dance, and feeling lost with no road map. It can often turn into division or discomfort, but does it always have to be that way? Emotionally Focused Therapy is a proven, evidence-based method that enhances couples' ability to gain Love and Connection through safety and security. And I would love to be that resource, coach, advocate to help partners sustain longevity in their relationship without leading to isolation or further hurt.
(479) 777-2921 View (479) 777-2921
Photo of Sherry L Pointer, MS, LAC, TTS, Counselor
Sherry L Pointer
Counselor, MS, LAC, TTS
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I believe change is part of life and some people need guidance through that change. My role as your therapist is to provide a positive, healing environment to create change for your mind, body, and soul. I enjoy working with all ages with a range of presenting problems.
I believe change is part of life and some people need guidance through that change. My role as your therapist is to provide a positive, healing environment to create change for your mind, body, and soul. I enjoy working with all ages with a range of presenting problems.
(479) 269-9756 View (479) 269-9756
Photo of Shelly Reaves, LPC, LADAC, MAC, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelly Reaves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADAC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
As we walk through life we face many challenges and trials. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor my goal is to help you face these challenges and overcome them. I provide confidential, private individual and relational counseling services in both Bentonville and Fayetteville Arkansas. I also am a Qualified SAP, (Substance Abuse Professional), by DOT, (Department of Transportation), and I understand how important these services are and I strive to get these completed quickly to get you back to work as soon as possible.
As we walk through life we face many challenges and trials. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor my goal is to help you face these challenges and overcome them. I provide confidential, private individual and relational counseling services in both Bentonville and Fayetteville Arkansas. I also am a Qualified SAP, (Substance Abuse Professional), by DOT, (Department of Transportation), and I understand how important these services are and I strive to get these completed quickly to get you back to work as soon as possible.
(479) 777-2913 View (479) 777-2913
Photo of Jill Duvall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Duvall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Jill has treated people from all walks of life, and with all possible diagnoses. Jill focuses on the treatment of people in crisis or people who have ongoing needs for support and care. Her focus areas are depression and anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, challenges for people who are neuro-atypical, and recovery from traumatic experiences – including rape or childhood abuse. Jill also treats adolescents and couples. Jill has years of experience treating addiction and can assist in long term sobriety work.
Jill has treated people from all walks of life, and with all possible diagnoses. Jill focuses on the treatment of people in crisis or people who have ongoing needs for support and care. Her focus areas are depression and anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, challenges for people who are neuro-atypical, and recovery from traumatic experiences – including rape or childhood abuse. Jill also treats adolescents and couples. Jill has years of experience treating addiction and can assist in long term sobriety work.
(479) 348-2105 View (479) 348-2105
Photo of Sean Millhouse, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sean Millhouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
(479) 239-9221 View (479) 239-9221
Photo of Ally Sabados Smolinski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ally Sabados Smolinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Hi there! I'm a licensed clinical therapist & owner of The Therapy Lounge. My goal as your clinician is to assist you in your journey of personal growth. Self-awareness is a key part of healing & my style of therapy is tailored to assist you in identifying stuck points, exploring self-defeating patterns/thoughts, improving emotional regulation, and building personal insight. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, family of origin issues, adjusting through life transitions, relational issues, & trauma. My ideal clients are adults who have self-curiosity & wish to dive more deeply into the root causes of their symptoms.
Hi there! I'm a licensed clinical therapist & owner of The Therapy Lounge. My goal as your clinician is to assist you in your journey of personal growth. Self-awareness is a key part of healing & my style of therapy is tailored to assist you in identifying stuck points, exploring self-defeating patterns/thoughts, improving emotional regulation, and building personal insight. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, family of origin issues, adjusting through life transitions, relational issues, & trauma. My ideal clients are adults who have self-curiosity & wish to dive more deeply into the root causes of their symptoms.
(479) 239-8961 View (479) 239-8961

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bentonville, AR

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Bentonville, AR who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
79% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Ambetter
49% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Bentonville, AR see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bentonville?

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.