Therapists in Olivia, NC

Photo of Fetima Wellington, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fetima Wellington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Olivia, NC 28368
I welcome adults, families, or couples. If you are feeling sad and unmotivated, having difficulties with certain life transitions, relationship concerns, or family conflict. I can assist you and your family. Your decision to engage in counseling is admirable, as counseling involves being committed, having a willingness to change, and vulnerability. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, trustworthy space for you to gain insight and clarity, and help you resolve the concerns that keep you from enjoying your life.
I welcome adults, families, or couples. If you are feeling sad and unmotivated, having difficulties with certain life transitions, relationship concerns, or family conflict. I can assist you and your family. Your decision to engage in counseling is admirable, as counseling involves being committed, having a willingness to change, and vulnerability. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, trustworthy space for you to gain insight and clarity, and help you resolve the concerns that keep you from enjoying your life.
(919) 897-5111 View (919) 897-5111

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alexis Reece, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Reece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
People are incredibly resilient, but sometimes need assistance in finding and trusting in their resiliency. I can assistant people in setting boundaries, processing through life events, and leaving with a better sense of clarity. If you find yourself struggling in relationships, life events, transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, birth control issues, or struggling with the first years of marriage, please contact me get your sense of direction back!
People are incredibly resilient, but sometimes need assistance in finding and trusting in their resiliency. I can assistant people in setting boundaries, processing through life events, and leaving with a better sense of clarity. If you find yourself struggling in relationships, life events, transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, birth control issues, or struggling with the first years of marriage, please contact me get your sense of direction back!
(919) 292-2614 View (919) 292-2614
Photo of Holly Frost, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Frost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cameron, NC 28326
I have experience supporting individuals and families with behavioral issues, parenting, emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma of both children and adults. I have worked in Intensive In-Home and Outpatient Therapy settings. Areas of interest: Trauma, anxiety and depression, life transitions, parenting issues, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. Populations served: Children 12 and older, adolescents, college students, adults, families, and couples.
I have experience supporting individuals and families with behavioral issues, parenting, emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma of both children and adults. I have worked in Intensive In-Home and Outpatient Therapy settings. Areas of interest: Trauma, anxiety and depression, life transitions, parenting issues, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. Populations served: Children 12 and older, adolescents, college students, adults, families, and couples.
(984) 205-4711 View (984) 205-4711
Photo of Michelle Willis, LCMHC
Michelle Willis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
Are you ready for life to be different? To be able to see a brighter path, one in which you are more accepting of yourself, healing, learning, and growing towards the life that you envision? Perhaps you are facing a life transition, a difficult phase of parenting, communication concerns in your relationship, or family conflicts. Maybe your child is struggling with emotional, behavioral, or academic functioning. A safe, warm, empathetic space for exploring your life challenges, identifying goals specific for you and/or your family, and building upon your strengths can bring you closer to the life you want, the life you deserve.
Are you ready for life to be different? To be able to see a brighter path, one in which you are more accepting of yourself, healing, learning, and growing towards the life that you envision? Perhaps you are facing a life transition, a difficult phase of parenting, communication concerns in your relationship, or family conflicts. Maybe your child is struggling with emotional, behavioral, or academic functioning. A safe, warm, empathetic space for exploring your life challenges, identifying goals specific for you and/or your family, and building upon your strengths can bring you closer to the life you want, the life you deserve.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of Beverly Wicker, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, SAP, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beverly Wicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, SAP, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Broadway, NC 27505
Formerly the CEO of Family ConneXions, PLLC, I come with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families of all ages. I am licensed in clinical social work (LCSW) as well as substance abuse services (LCAS). I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS). I have a Bachelors Degree in Spanish Language and Literature and speak Spanish fluently. My primary goal is to provide a service that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality and compassion. I use a strength-based approach that focuses on supporting individuals, families, and couples through emotional and behavioral challenges.
Formerly the CEO of Family ConneXions, PLLC, I come with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families of all ages. I am licensed in clinical social work (LCSW) as well as substance abuse services (LCAS). I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS). I have a Bachelors Degree in Spanish Language and Literature and speak Spanish fluently. My primary goal is to provide a service that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality and compassion. I use a strength-based approach that focuses on supporting individuals, families, and couples through emotional and behavioral challenges.
(919) 925-2693 View (919) 925-2693
Photo of Sandra Sargent, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Sargent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
Life can be challenging at times. Fortunately, you don’t have to struggle alone. It is often helpful to speak with an objective, compassionate, caring therapist who can help you increase your self-awareness and help you to see things from other perspectives. I believe that asking for help is a sign of strength. It’s the first step towards taking control of your life and making the changes needed to improve your emotional health and quality of life. Whether you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or confused, I can help you identify and clarify your thoughts and feelings and process them.
Life can be challenging at times. Fortunately, you don’t have to struggle alone. It is often helpful to speak with an objective, compassionate, caring therapist who can help you increase your self-awareness and help you to see things from other perspectives. I believe that asking for help is a sign of strength. It’s the first step towards taking control of your life and making the changes needed to improve your emotional health and quality of life. Whether you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or confused, I can help you identify and clarify your thoughts and feelings and process them.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of Aressa Burton, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aressa Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cameron, NC 28326  (Online Only)
Tired of the ache deep down in your soul preventing you from engaging in your relationships, work and life? Or are you a frustrated parent feeling as though none of your efforts are working to get your child to be successful? You have taken the first step, allow me to assist you in the next steps. I can support you in achieving healing to your mind, body and soul. With my holistic approach you will gain sustainable changes in your life. Which means therapeutic goals could include making positive changes in relationships, physical health, emotional health and spiritual fulfillment.
Tired of the ache deep down in your soul preventing you from engaging in your relationships, work and life? Or are you a frustrated parent feeling as though none of your efforts are working to get your child to be successful? You have taken the first step, allow me to assist you in the next steps. I can support you in achieving healing to your mind, body and soul. With my holistic approach you will gain sustainable changes in your life. Which means therapeutic goals could include making positive changes in relationships, physical health, emotional health and spiritual fulfillment.
(910) 400-0183 View (910) 400-0183
Photo of Rose Thomas, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rose Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
I have immediate openings and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in resolving your life's challenges and concerns. I am happy to provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in working with people struggling through any type of difficulties where it be childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, unanticipated life events, family and marital problems and substance use.
I have immediate openings and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in resolving your life's challenges and concerns. I am happy to provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in working with people struggling through any type of difficulties where it be childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, unanticipated life events, family and marital problems and substance use.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of Katherine Bender, LCMHCA
Katherine Bender
LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA), I enjoy working alongside individuals who are seeking change to live a more balanced life. Many people come to counseling in times of overwhelming stress, grief, or internal conflict, though counseling can also be a means to maintain mental and emotional stability. Allowing yourself the opportunity to intentionally process the challenges you might be facing, can lead you in the direction of a more peaceful and healthy way of living.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA), I enjoy working alongside individuals who are seeking change to live a more balanced life. Many people come to counseling in times of overwhelming stress, grief, or internal conflict, though counseling can also be a means to maintain mental and emotional stability. Allowing yourself the opportunity to intentionally process the challenges you might be facing, can lead you in the direction of a more peaceful and healthy way of living.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of Jessica Barry, PsyD, LP, BCBA, Psychologist
Jessica Barry
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, BCBA
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
Are you or loved one in need of finding answers? Do you wonder what might be causing you (or your loved one) to have difficulty navigating the day to day tasks? Or perhaps you are looking to speak with someone who can provide a safe and understanding place to explore questions that you may have in order to find solutions, support, or a direction. Whether you are seeking a psychological evaluation or therapy/counseling services, the questions or reasons that have brought you to where you are now may be addressed.
Are you or loved one in need of finding answers? Do you wonder what might be causing you (or your loved one) to have difficulty navigating the day to day tasks? Or perhaps you are looking to speak with someone who can provide a safe and understanding place to explore questions that you may have in order to find solutions, support, or a direction. Whether you are seeking a psychological evaluation or therapy/counseling services, the questions or reasons that have brought you to where you are now may be addressed.
(703) 215-9912 View (703) 215-9912
Photo of Yulai Alvarez-Rodriguez, LCMHC-A, MA, MAHSC
Yulai Alvarez-Rodriguez
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A, MA, MAHSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cameron, NC 28326
Adjusting to change can be challenging, especially when transitioning through different phases of life. Whether it's a child coping with behavioral issues, a teenager exploring their identity, or an adult facing the complexities of life, such as finding a safe space is crucial for personal growth. Embracing discomfort is key to growth, so if you're prepared to evolve, let's embrace the discomfort together. "Life is not what it is supposed to be, it is what it is; it's how we navigate it that makes a difference."
Adjusting to change can be challenging, especially when transitioning through different phases of life. Whether it's a child coping with behavioral issues, a teenager exploring their identity, or an adult facing the complexities of life, such as finding a safe space is crucial for personal growth. Embracing discomfort is key to growth, so if you're prepared to evolve, let's embrace the discomfort together. "Life is not what it is supposed to be, it is what it is; it's how we navigate it that makes a difference."
(910) 519-8729 View (910) 519-8729
Photo of Verna Dority - Carolina Counseling Services - Cameron, NC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolina Counseling Services - Cameron, NC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
There can be a lot of obstacles to living the life you want, therapy can help. We have appointments available with independently contracted therapists who enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children. We contract with experienced, licensed clinicians that can help you work through what may be holding you back.
There can be a lot of obstacles to living the life you want, therapy can help. We have appointments available with independently contracted therapists who enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children. We contract with experienced, licensed clinicians that can help you work through what may be holding you back.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of John Lawson, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cameron, NC 28326
I am a Registered Play Therapist working with children who are hard to reach either because they are angry, anxious, or depressed. Children don't express themselves the same way that adults do, rather, they express themselves more naturally through play. Play is a child's natural way of relieving stress and play therapy is the best practice for working with children. Using Play Therapy most children are able to work through issues in a much shorter amount of time. For more information Call today (910) 407-0052 and check us out at www.AtlasChildCounseling.com
I am a Registered Play Therapist working with children who are hard to reach either because they are angry, anxious, or depressed. Children don't express themselves the same way that adults do, rather, they express themselves more naturally through play. Play is a child's natural way of relieving stress and play therapy is the best practice for working with children. Using Play Therapy most children are able to work through issues in a much shorter amount of time. For more information Call today (910) 407-0052 and check us out at www.AtlasChildCounseling.com
(910) 407-0052 View (910) 407-0052
Photo of Richard McDonald, LCMHC
Richard McDonald
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326  (Online Only)
I have a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I am also a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and I belong to the American Counseling Association, The National Board of Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
I have a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I am also a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and I belong to the American Counseling Association, The National Board of Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
(980) 372-4734 View (980) 372-4734
Photo of Amy Trousdale, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Trousdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
(919) 759-5291 View (919) 759-5291
Photo of Dr. Pamela Cassellius - Promise Counseling, PLLC, LCMHCS, LCMHCA
Promise Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
At Promise Counseling, PLLC, our focus is to help clients grow and heal as they become aware of their inner strengths. We strive to achieve this by providing a safe environment where clients can be heard and understood. We collaborate with our clients to establish goals that will move them toward freedom from the things that they believe are keeping them from fully engaging in their lives. Our team includes: Dr. Pamela Cassellius, LCMHCS (Carthage/Telehealth), Ms. Carly Meadows, LCMHCA (Charlotte/Tele), Mrs. Jordan Quate, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele), Mrs. Ashley Harris, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele) and Ms. Kelsie Boss, LCMHCA (Telehealth).
At Promise Counseling, PLLC, our focus is to help clients grow and heal as they become aware of their inner strengths. We strive to achieve this by providing a safe environment where clients can be heard and understood. We collaborate with our clients to establish goals that will move them toward freedom from the things that they believe are keeping them from fully engaging in their lives. Our team includes: Dr. Pamela Cassellius, LCMHCS (Carthage/Telehealth), Ms. Carly Meadows, LCMHCA (Charlotte/Tele), Mrs. Jordan Quate, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele), Mrs. Ashley Harris, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele) and Ms. Kelsie Boss, LCMHCA (Telehealth).
(910) 634-3783 View (910) 634-3783
Photo of Cecelia K Patterson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cecelia K Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Not accepting new clients
I believe in a person centered approach and sincerely consider it an honor to have the opportunity to work with and help others. I have many years of experience in the medical field prior to counseling and bring that, as well as my life experience as a wife, mother and grandmother to my work.
I believe in a person centered approach and sincerely consider it an honor to have the opportunity to work with and help others. I have many years of experience in the medical field prior to counseling and bring that, as well as my life experience as a wife, mother and grandmother to my work.
(919) 328-3959 View (919) 328-3959
Photo of Dr. Alexis Blue-Wilson, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Alexis Blue-Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
My experience includes substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, grief due to pregnancy and infant loss/infertility, and more. My treatment approaches include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Faith-Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
My experience includes substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, grief due to pregnancy and infant loss/infertility, and more. My treatment approaches include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Faith-Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
(919) 292-2614 View (919) 292-2614
Photo of Leah Showalter, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Showalter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
Hello, my name is Leah Showalter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. Seeking help for yourself or for your teen? If you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women's issues, life transitions, stress, and more, I would love to partner with you on your journey to healing. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. I also enjoy using Holistic approaches such as Mindfulness-based techniques.
Hello, my name is Leah Showalter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. Seeking help for yourself or for your teen? If you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women's issues, life transitions, stress, and more, I would love to partner with you on your journey to healing. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. I also enjoy using Holistic approaches such as Mindfulness-based techniques.
(919) 746-7689 View (919) 746-7689
Photo of Leisa Keisha Cook - Benevolent Counseling, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benevolent Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
I understand that many people suffer from anxiety and depression. When we ignore these issues it can have a negative impact on our daily lives. It can affect our personal relationships, the ability to deal with our work environment and prevent us from feeling good about ourselves. Nobody wants to experience this but many of us do and we often don't know how to deal with these feelings. If you're willing to take the first step and seek guidance there is a way to become better at navigating these issues. Sometimes all you need is someone to help show you the path to a better quality life.
I understand that many people suffer from anxiety and depression. When we ignore these issues it can have a negative impact on our daily lives. It can affect our personal relationships, the ability to deal with our work environment and prevent us from feeling good about ourselves. Nobody wants to experience this but many of us do and we often don't know how to deal with these feelings. If you're willing to take the first step and seek guidance there is a way to become better at navigating these issues. Sometimes all you need is someone to help show you the path to a better quality life.
(910) 635-0361 View (910) 635-0361

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Olivia, NC

< 10

Therapists in Olivia, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Family Conflict
100% Oppositional Defiance (ODD)

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in Olivia, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Olivia?

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.