Therapists in Bonham, TX

Photo of Erin Holt - Erin Holt, LPC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Holt, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
I help individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and teens learn, change, grow, and be the healthiest they can be. I work with issues of depression, anxiety, relationship problems, behavior, and more. My approach is to help you find solutions now, so you can get on with the joys life can offer.
I help individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and teens learn, change, grow, and be the healthiest they can be. I work with issues of depression, anxiety, relationship problems, behavior, and more. My approach is to help you find solutions now, so you can get on with the joys life can offer.
(469) 964-2297 View (469) 964-2297
Photo of Sabah Ali, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
(817) 809-3245 View (817) 809-3245
Photo of Anthony P. Blackburn, LCSW, LCDC, MBA, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anthony P. Blackburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
It is my pleasure to work with people from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. My 20 years in the military and five plus decades of living has taught me life can be complicated, and people often get overwhelmed. Rather than condemn them I prefer to help them on their journey to a better quality of life. One of the greatest pleasures in my life is seeing my clients overcome their struggles. Scheduling is typically quick same day appointments and multiple hour sessions are possible, but I don't file insurance due to the difficult nature of working with insurance companies.
It is my pleasure to work with people from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. My 20 years in the military and five plus decades of living has taught me life can be complicated, and people often get overwhelmed. Rather than condemn them I prefer to help them on their journey to a better quality of life. One of the greatest pleasures in my life is seeing my clients overcome their struggles. Scheduling is typically quick same day appointments and multiple hour sessions are possible, but I don't file insurance due to the difficult nature of working with insurance companies.
(903) 361-6083 View (903) 361-6083
Photo of Candace Ray - Texoma Line Counseling, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Texoma Line Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bonham, TX 75418
The journey of personal growth and healing begins with finding someone that you believe to be understanding, non-judgmental, and easy to talk to. At Texoma Line Counseling, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and specialized counseling services to 1st Responders, Veterans, and their families. We offer individual therapy, couples counseling, and group therapy for our clients who may be struggling with a variety of issues such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.
The journey of personal growth and healing begins with finding someone that you believe to be understanding, non-judgmental, and easy to talk to. At Texoma Line Counseling, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and specialized counseling services to 1st Responders, Veterans, and their families. We offer individual therapy, couples counseling, and group therapy for our clients who may be struggling with a variety of issues such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.
(903) 904-0241 View (903) 904-0241
Photo of Brian Ray, LPC-A
Brian Ray
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
The journey to personal growth and healing begins with finding someone that is understanding, non-judgmental, and easy to talk to. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and specialized counseling services to all of my clients. I specialize in working with First Responders, Veterans, and their families. I offer individual and couples counseling, and work with a variety of issues including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. I am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) and have seen some fantastic results!
The journey to personal growth and healing begins with finding someone that is understanding, non-judgmental, and easy to talk to. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and specialized counseling services to all of my clients. I specialize in working with First Responders, Veterans, and their families. I offer individual and couples counseling, and work with a variety of issues including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. I am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) and have seen some fantastic results!
(903) 289-6061 View (903) 289-6061
Photo of Skye Broadus-Thomas, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Skye Broadus-Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
I like working with a variety of people and helping guide them through life's stresses. I especially enjoy teaching others how to set boundaries, build their self esteem and work towards their goals. I strive to make my clients feel safe and comfortable while sharing their thoughts, feelings, traumas, hopes and dreams.
I like working with a variety of people and helping guide them through life's stresses. I especially enjoy teaching others how to set boundaries, build their self esteem and work towards their goals. I strive to make my clients feel safe and comfortable while sharing their thoughts, feelings, traumas, hopes and dreams.
(430) 208-5715 View (430) 208-5715
Photo of Stacie Garcia - Stacie Garcia, TrueNorth Therapy PLLC, MS, LPC, NCC, CCPT, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacie Garcia, TrueNorth Therapy PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCPT, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonham, TX 75418
Do you want to feel in a better headspace, happier, and be able to function in your life? I will help you or your children navigate through their thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behaviors after they have been in a narcissistic or abusive relationship, traumatic experience, and/or loss of someone special. I work with issues of depression, grief, anxiety, behavior, self-harm, suicidality, and neurodiversity. You want someone that will listen and assist you in meeting your goals and discovering the new, stronger, resilient person that can get up each day & walk your new path with new skills. www.truenorththerapypllc.com
Do you want to feel in a better headspace, happier, and be able to function in your life? I will help you or your children navigate through their thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behaviors after they have been in a narcissistic or abusive relationship, traumatic experience, and/or loss of someone special. I work with issues of depression, grief, anxiety, behavior, self-harm, suicidality, and neurodiversity. You want someone that will listen and assist you in meeting your goals and discovering the new, stronger, resilient person that can get up each day & walk your new path with new skills. www.truenorththerapypllc.com
(903) 200-1303 View (903) 200-1303
Photo of John Trader, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Trader
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonham, TX 75418  (Online Only)
Hello there. My name is John Trader and I have been a mental health counselor for over a decade. I am devoted to helping people with trauma be able to examine how it continues to affect their lives. I love to see breakthroughs with individuals and couples. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for people to explore neurodivergence and sexual identity. I am LGBTQIA+ and anti-racist. As a clinician, I believe that couples and individuals have the ability to work through life's difficulties by bringing safety and acceptance to the therapeutic process.
Hello there. My name is John Trader and I have been a mental health counselor for over a decade. I am devoted to helping people with trauma be able to examine how it continues to affect their lives. I love to see breakthroughs with individuals and couples. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for people to explore neurodivergence and sexual identity. I am LGBTQIA+ and anti-racist. As a clinician, I believe that couples and individuals have the ability to work through life's difficulties by bringing safety and acceptance to the therapeutic process.
(903) 476-6783 View (903) 476-6783
Photo of Jeremy Ballard, DMin
Jeremy Ballard
DMin
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are people with potential who want to grow as a leader, especially in Christian ministry. I also coach couples and families who want to improve their marriage and family relationships.
My ideal clients are people with potential who want to grow as a leader, especially in Christian ministry. I also coach couples and families who want to improve their marriage and family relationships.
(430) 218-3329 View (430) 218-3329
Photo of Kara Olfert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Olfert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
Together, we will develop an understanding of who you are, how your beliefs about self affect how you feel, and empower you to see the strength and beauty within. We will address fears and worries, sadness and grief, depression and anxiety. We will strengthen your coping skills and confidence in yourself.
Together, we will develop an understanding of who you are, how your beliefs about self affect how you feel, and empower you to see the strength and beauty within. We will address fears and worries, sadness and grief, depression and anxiety. We will strengthen your coping skills and confidence in yourself.
(430) 209-3921 View (430) 209-3921
Photo of Melody McKibbin, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melody McKibbin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bonham, TX 75418  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Melody, your guide through the maze of mental health, armed with DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Level II Accreditation and a flair for making therapy less of a chore and more of a journey. My expertise? BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder). My passion? Turning the tangles of the mind into a clearer path forward. And when I'm not decoding the human psyche, I'm creating tales of murder and comedy where mannequins aren't just window dressing—they're the main suspects. My downtime involves strategizing world domination with my Russian Blue cats and family and friend hangouts.
Hello! I’m Melody, your guide through the maze of mental health, armed with DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Level II Accreditation and a flair for making therapy less of a chore and more of a journey. My expertise? BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder). My passion? Turning the tangles of the mind into a clearer path forward. And when I'm not decoding the human psyche, I'm creating tales of murder and comedy where mannequins aren't just window dressing—they're the main suspects. My downtime involves strategizing world domination with my Russian Blue cats and family and friend hangouts.
(903) 964-5049 View (903) 964-5049
Photo of Jill Conway, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Conway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonham, TX 75418
Everyone deserves someone who is dedicated to helping others in a confidential & safe environment which allows them to feel free to work through their struggles. I have a passion for guiding marriages/couples to overcome obstacles. I am committed to helping individuals with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety or Stress. My professional experience began over 10 years ago which includes schools, inpatient crisis centers & office settings . I believe the counseling process should take the whole person and their life experiences into consideration while looking at the person’s mind, body, and spirit to best fit each individuals needs.
Everyone deserves someone who is dedicated to helping others in a confidential & safe environment which allows them to feel free to work through their struggles. I have a passion for guiding marriages/couples to overcome obstacles. I am committed to helping individuals with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety or Stress. My professional experience began over 10 years ago which includes schools, inpatient crisis centers & office settings . I believe the counseling process should take the whole person and their life experiences into consideration while looking at the person’s mind, body, and spirit to best fit each individuals needs.
(903) 905-8802 View (903) 905-8802
Photo of Brittany Woolard, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Woolard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
Hello! I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, low self-esteem, body image, life transitions, gender identity, and sexuality. I utilize affirming counseling practices with all clients, and especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
Hello! I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, low self-esteem, body image, life transitions, gender identity, and sexuality. I utilize affirming counseling practices with all clients, and especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
(903) 269-9107 View (903) 269-9107
Photo of Andrea Perry, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
(430) 209-3335 View (430) 209-3335

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary Safi Crisis Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Safi Crisis Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, TX 75447  (Online Only)
We live in a time where we struggle to understand how to cope with our mental health needs, especially with everything going on these past few years. Our thoughts are powerful and we minimize the effect they have on us, this can be overwhelming without the coping skills needed to deal with them. Understand and be assured, you have come to the right place. The combination of graduating from both UT Southwestern (Rehabilitation Counseling) and Texas Woman's University (Counseling & Development) has helped me understand both sides of the counseling process, medical and behavioral. Give me a call or email when ready!
We live in a time where we struggle to understand how to cope with our mental health needs, especially with everything going on these past few years. Our thoughts are powerful and we minimize the effect they have on us, this can be overwhelming without the coping skills needed to deal with them. Understand and be assured, you have come to the right place. The combination of graduating from both UT Southwestern (Rehabilitation Counseling) and Texas Woman's University (Counseling & Development) has helped me understand both sides of the counseling process, medical and behavioral. Give me a call or email when ready!
(469) 557-2394 View (469) 557-2394
Photo of Charles Vela, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Vela
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ravenna, TX 75476
Greetings! My name is Charles Vela, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor here in the state of Texas. It has been my life’s passion to support and encourage individuals in living their fullest life and healing from past trauma. I received my undergraduate degree in philosophy and psychology at the University of Texas-Austin and went on to my graduate studies at UTRGV.
Greetings! My name is Charles Vela, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor here in the state of Texas. It has been my life’s passion to support and encourage individuals in living their fullest life and healing from past trauma. I received my undergraduate degree in philosophy and psychology at the University of Texas-Austin and went on to my graduate studies at UTRGV.
(281) 609-9167 View (281) 609-9167
Photo of Amy Acevedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Acevedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ector, TX 75439
If you are reading this, that means that you have taken the first step. The first step is always the hardest. The good news is you do not have to do it alone and together we will make your journey a little easier. My name is Amy Acevedo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I offer a warm, energetic, relaxed approach to therapy with focus on anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and trauma. I provide an uplifting perspective which is supportive, challenging, flexible, and multifaceted to uniquely fit your needs and includes CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, Person-Centered and Mindfulness based theoretical approaches.
If you are reading this, that means that you have taken the first step. The first step is always the hardest. The good news is you do not have to do it alone and together we will make your journey a little easier. My name is Amy Acevedo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I offer a warm, energetic, relaxed approach to therapy with focus on anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and trauma. I provide an uplifting perspective which is supportive, challenging, flexible, and multifaceted to uniquely fit your needs and includes CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, Person-Centered and Mindfulness based theoretical approaches.
(936) 279-3999 View (936) 279-3999
Photo of Amanda Wentz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Wentz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, TX 75447
Hi, my name is Amanda Wentz, and I have been practicing as an LCSW since 2014. My expertise lies mainly in the areas of Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors, Work Stressors, Relationship Turmoil, Panic Attacks, and Parenting Skills. The main approaches I utilize when providing treatment are Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Strength-Based, Trauma Focused, and Narrative therapies. I believe that together with my expertise as a clinical professional and your expertise in yourself, we can work as a team to help you be the best version of yourself!
Hi, my name is Amanda Wentz, and I have been practicing as an LCSW since 2014. My expertise lies mainly in the areas of Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors, Work Stressors, Relationship Turmoil, Panic Attacks, and Parenting Skills. The main approaches I utilize when providing treatment are Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Strength-Based, Trauma Focused, and Narrative therapies. I believe that together with my expertise as a clinical professional and your expertise in yourself, we can work as a team to help you be the best version of yourself!
(915) 233-1225 View (915) 233-1225
Photo of Lincoya Young, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lincoya Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ravenna, TX 75476  (Online Only)
My name is Lincoya Young I am LPCC, in Texas, Calif, Oregon. I have been in the counseling profession for over 20 yrs. My approach is therapy is the Client is the expert, and ultimately holds the solution to the problem. Children, Couples, Family. Really enjoy working with children in a play therapy milieu. Client Centered Solution Focus, with a strong emphasis on the client being the expert. Empathic, validating very supportive. Focus on strengths, not pathology.
My name is Lincoya Young I am LPCC, in Texas, Calif, Oregon. I have been in the counseling profession for over 20 yrs. My approach is therapy is the Client is the expert, and ultimately holds the solution to the problem. Children, Couples, Family. Really enjoy working with children in a play therapy milieu. Client Centered Solution Focus, with a strong emphasis on the client being the expert. Empathic, validating very supportive. Focus on strengths, not pathology.
(346) 522-2270 View (346) 522-2270
Photo of Bridges West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridges West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dodd City, TX 75438
Hi there—so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults in a variety of environments. From working in a medical setting to parenting support, I am here to help support you through all of life's challenges. I prioritize the client-therapist relationship, viewing it as sacred. My holistic therapy approach celebrates your uniqueness, leveraging your strengths and resilience.
Hi there—so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults in a variety of environments. From working in a medical setting to parenting support, I am here to help support you through all of life's challenges. I prioritize the client-therapist relationship, viewing it as sacred. My holistic therapy approach celebrates your uniqueness, leveraging your strengths and resilience.
(430) 245-5989 View (430) 245-5989

See more therapy options for Bonham

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bonham, TX

10+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Bonham, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
79% Grief
71% Divorce
57% Trauma and PTSD
57% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Cigna and Evernorth
90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Bonham, TX see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bonham?

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.