Photo of Alexis Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Alexis holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. She specializes in providing personalized mental health services in VA and NC, with a focus on young adults, women's issues, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. As a birthworker/Doula herself, Alexis also offers support for other birthworkers, providing unique insights and assistance. She offers compassionate therapy for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs and experiences.
Alexis holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. She specializes in providing personalized mental health services in VA and NC, with a focus on young adults, women's issues, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. As a birthworker/Doula herself, Alexis also offers support for other birthworkers, providing unique insights and assistance. She offers compassionate therapy for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs and experiences.
(804) 251-2791 View (804) 251-2791
Photo of Joy Daigle Book - Growing Grounded Counseling, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Growing Grounded Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
We love working with clients eager to discover their identity, purpose, and strengths. As clinicians, we work with individuals and families on developing healthy relationships, interpersonal dynamics, and communication. Clinicians in our office especially work well with people processing ADHD diagnoses and symptoms, spiritual trauma, identity and purpose, and anxiety and trauma. We incorporate animal-therapy, art, play, and other mindful activities into sessions. Our clinicians provide affirming care to all clients and are passionate about collaborating with clients to advocate for equitable support structures in various contexts.
We love working with clients eager to discover their identity, purpose, and strengths. As clinicians, we work with individuals and families on developing healthy relationships, interpersonal dynamics, and communication. Clinicians in our office especially work well with people processing ADHD diagnoses and symptoms, spiritual trauma, identity and purpose, and anxiety and trauma. We incorporate animal-therapy, art, play, and other mindful activities into sessions. Our clinicians provide affirming care to all clients and are passionate about collaborating with clients to advocate for equitable support structures in various contexts.
(804) 596-4936 View (804) 596-4936
Photo of Jacquelyn Thomas - Life Changing Seasons, LLC, MAC, ICAADC, CAMS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Life Changing Seasons, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MAC, ICAADC, CAMS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you have a DUI, reckless driving or a drug related charge or conviction ? If so, I can help you with the court ordered mandate including an Alcohol & Substance Abuse Evaluation and treatment (if required). Pre-trial or convicted it's best to appear in court having completed what’ll be required. If addiction(s) and/or self-defeating habits are destroying you emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually, recovery is not just possible. It can be your reality. You’re worth it!
Do you have a DUI, reckless driving or a drug related charge or conviction ? If so, I can help you with the court ordered mandate including an Alcohol & Substance Abuse Evaluation and treatment (if required). Pre-trial or convicted it's best to appear in court having completed what’ll be required. If addiction(s) and/or self-defeating habits are destroying you emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually, recovery is not just possible. It can be your reality. You’re worth it!
(678) 994-8046 View (678) 994-8046
Photo of Marquitia Glass, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marquitia Glass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Not accepting new clients
MarQuitia has experience in working with vast populations. MarQuitia is certified in Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She is currently only accepting clients ages 7 through 19, utilizing this therapeutic approach. Through this approach, MarQuitia will assist the individual and their family In learning more about trauma, it’s affects on the individual and the family , and processing and working through their trauma. For more information about TF-CBT visit the website tfcbt.org or contact MarQuitia for more information.
MarQuitia has experience in working with vast populations. MarQuitia is certified in Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She is currently only accepting clients ages 7 through 19, utilizing this therapeutic approach. Through this approach, MarQuitia will assist the individual and their family In learning more about trauma, it’s affects on the individual and the family , and processing and working through their trauma. For more information about TF-CBT visit the website tfcbt.org or contact MarQuitia for more information.
(571) 946-1536 View (571) 946-1536
Photo of Nitika T. Bey - Child, Parent & Family Institute, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Child, Parent & Family Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Is your child or teen exhibiting defiant, oppositional, hyperactive, impulsive, unsafe or self-injurious behaviors? Are they struggling to maintain healthy interpersonal relationships with friends or sibling in school or at home? Do you as a parent want to assist your child during these uncertain times to regulate emotions, improve communication, and/or reduce challenging and unsafe behaviors? If so, we are here to help.
Is your child or teen exhibiting defiant, oppositional, hyperactive, impulsive, unsafe or self-injurious behaviors? Are they struggling to maintain healthy interpersonal relationships with friends or sibling in school or at home? Do you as a parent want to assist your child during these uncertain times to regulate emotions, improve communication, and/or reduce challenging and unsafe behaviors? If so, we are here to help.
(804) 331-1138 View (804) 331-1138
Photo of Cassandra Merrick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Merrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am willing to walk alongside as you travel your journey! My counseling style is catered to meet each client's need. Let's get started.
I am willing to walk alongside as you travel your journey! My counseling style is catered to meet each client's need. Let's get started.
(804) 587-7584 View (804) 587-7584
Photo of Edward Council, LPC Intern
Edward Council
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Mr. Council, a dedicated Resident in Counseling (RIC) with a unique military background and active knowledge in providing treatment for mental trauma, PTSD, self-harm, sexual struggles, addictions, eating disorders, and other compulsive behaviors. Mr. Council has a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals who have served in the military and is passionately committed to helping them navigate the path to mental wellness. He has experience in providing both marital and premarital counseling. He is highly experienced in providing counseling/therapy methods for most kinds of depression and anxiety disorders as well.
Mr. Council, a dedicated Resident in Counseling (RIC) with a unique military background and active knowledge in providing treatment for mental trauma, PTSD, self-harm, sexual struggles, addictions, eating disorders, and other compulsive behaviors. Mr. Council has a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals who have served in the military and is passionately committed to helping them navigate the path to mental wellness. He has experience in providing both marital and premarital counseling. He is highly experienced in providing counseling/therapy methods for most kinds of depression and anxiety disorders as well.
(804) 207-5383 View (804) 207-5383
Photo of Gabrielle Oblena - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(804) 593-0677 View (804) 593-0677
Photo of Charita Threatt, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charita Threatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ettrick, VA 23803
My name is Charita Threatt and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with an extensive background and training working with individuals with mental health and behavioral health issues as well as those that struggle with daily stress of relationships, work and depression. My private practice is based on person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing therapies. I can assist individuals with coping skills, improving their self-esteem, depression and anxiety symptoms, communication skills, problem solving, relational problems and grief counseling.I work with couples and families to assist them with building a healthy home environment geared towards strengthening the family unit.
My name is Charita Threatt and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with an extensive background and training working with individuals with mental health and behavioral health issues as well as those that struggle with daily stress of relationships, work and depression. My private practice is based on person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing therapies. I can assist individuals with coping skills, improving their self-esteem, depression and anxiety symptoms, communication skills, problem solving, relational problems and grief counseling.I work with couples and families to assist them with building a healthy home environment geared towards strengthening the family unit.
(804) 265-0053 View (804) 265-0053
Photo of Lauren Magruder, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Magruder
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Are you a mother that has struggled with managing the responsibilities of a new child? Are you a NICU mother who is struggling with the traumatic birth and experience? Are you a mother who has had difficulty feeling like yourself after giving birth to your baby? There are many different stressors related to being a parent. There is also no shame in seeking help.
Are you a mother that has struggled with managing the responsibilities of a new child? Are you a NICU mother who is struggling with the traumatic birth and experience? Are you a mother who has had difficulty feeling like yourself after giving birth to your baby? There are many different stressors related to being a parent. There is also no shame in seeking help.
(804) 336-3799 View (804) 336-3799
Photo of Tierra Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tierra Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia with nearly a decade of clinical experience. I assist clients with navigating life transitions, developing effective coping mechanisms to handle adversity, and becoming the best version of themselves. I offer a warm and welcoming therapeutic environment that is empathetic, empowering and strengths-based. I utilize a person centered approach to ensure that individuals receive effective treatment tailored to their specific needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia with nearly a decade of clinical experience. I assist clients with navigating life transitions, developing effective coping mechanisms to handle adversity, and becoming the best version of themselves. I offer a warm and welcoming therapeutic environment that is empathetic, empowering and strengths-based. I utilize a person centered approach to ensure that individuals receive effective treatment tailored to their specific needs.
(804) 570-2735 View (804) 570-2735
Photo of Dr. Evelyn Varner Whitehead - Progressive Counseling Associates LLC, EdD, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Progressive Counseling Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Many times, people seek counseling because they are unhappy, feel stressed or frustrated with a relationship or situation. When things seem to be getting worse, not better, despite your efforts to change, counseling can help. I want to thank you in advance for choosing counseling to make a positive change in your life. As a counseling professional with more than 20 years of experience helping adults, college students, adolescents, and children, I firmly believe that counseling leads to emotional healing, personal, and spiritual growth.
Many times, people seek counseling because they are unhappy, feel stressed or frustrated with a relationship or situation. When things seem to be getting worse, not better, despite your efforts to change, counseling can help. I want to thank you in advance for choosing counseling to make a positive change in your life. As a counseling professional with more than 20 years of experience helping adults, college students, adolescents, and children, I firmly believe that counseling leads to emotional healing, personal, and spiritual growth.
(804) 721-5854 View (804) 721-5854
Photo of Arsheia Jones, LPC, CSOTP, CSAC, LSATP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arsheia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, CSAC, LSATP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Petersburg, VA 23803
Do you ever find yourself battling negative thoughts? Feeling overwhelmed with trying to cope with feelings? Are you in need of a space where you can feel seen and heard? Whether you are facing loss, traumas, family conflict, life transitions or difficulty with social wellness, my collaborative and supportive style supports you as you work toward your wellness goals.
Do you ever find yourself battling negative thoughts? Feeling overwhelmed with trying to cope with feelings? Are you in need of a space where you can feel seen and heard? Whether you are facing loss, traumas, family conflict, life transitions or difficulty with social wellness, my collaborative and supportive style supports you as you work toward your wellness goals.
(804) 203-0618 View (804) 203-0618
Photo of Jessica R Belk, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica R Belk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Welcome! Taking steps to recovery and/or continued wellness is a brave act! Congratulations on never giving up! I always say that finding the right therapist to help you along your journey is like finding a good pair of shoes. Let’s see if this is a good fit for you; if not, keep looking until you find the right fit! There is always hope even when you can’t see it!
Welcome! Taking steps to recovery and/or continued wellness is a brave act! Congratulations on never giving up! I always say that finding the right therapist to help you along your journey is like finding a good pair of shoes. Let’s see if this is a good fit for you; if not, keep looking until you find the right fit! There is always hope even when you can’t see it!
(804) 294-4314 View (804) 294-4314
Photo of Mary Jo Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jo Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Hello - I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with adolescents, families, and couples in private practice and school social work in secondary and elementary schools. I specialize in working with anxiety, coping skills, children or adolescents, school issues, job stress, self esteem. I utilize dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), using these clinical modalities to support my clients in therapy. We will define your progress toward your dreams and what it will look like to work together.
Hello - I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with adolescents, families, and couples in private practice and school social work in secondary and elementary schools. I specialize in working with anxiety, coping skills, children or adolescents, school issues, job stress, self esteem. I utilize dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), using these clinical modalities to support my clients in therapy. We will define your progress toward your dreams and what it will look like to work together.
(540) 441-1405 View (540) 441-1405
Photo of Nancy Welsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Hello, my name is Nancy Welsh, a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. More specifically, I am a strong advocate and educator in mental health growth, insightfulness, development, and healing, while also normalizing the importance of mental health therapy. Apart from incorporating evidence-based treatment models in my work with clients, I integrate empowerment, hope, collaboration, and resiliency. I am of the firm belief that every person has room for growth and the ability for happiness and fulfillment.
Hello, my name is Nancy Welsh, a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. More specifically, I am a strong advocate and educator in mental health growth, insightfulness, development, and healing, while also normalizing the importance of mental health therapy. Apart from incorporating evidence-based treatment models in my work with clients, I integrate empowerment, hope, collaboration, and resiliency. I am of the firm belief that every person has room for growth and the ability for happiness and fulfillment.
(804) 203-0517 View (804) 203-0517
Photo of Carla Felicia Jones - Compassion Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compassion Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Hello, my name is Carla Jones and I have been practicing since 2001. I have been working with individuals, couples, children, and families focusing on issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, parenting and family struggles, trauma and abuse, grief, and loss, as well as other life challenges. I like the Cognitive-behavioral and Dialectal Behavioral approach to treatment. I believe in helping people learn strategies to manage their symptoms, emotions and thought life. Each session is unique to meet your specific needs.
Hello, my name is Carla Jones and I have been practicing since 2001. I have been working with individuals, couples, children, and families focusing on issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, parenting and family struggles, trauma and abuse, grief, and loss, as well as other life challenges. I like the Cognitive-behavioral and Dialectal Behavioral approach to treatment. I believe in helping people learn strategies to manage their symptoms, emotions and thought life. Each session is unique to meet your specific needs.
(804) 534-2315 View (804) 534-2315
Photo of Gabrielle Oblena - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(804) 597-9674 View (804) 597-9674
Photo of Terra Jones-Steele, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terra Jones-Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803
Utilizing my background in aiding adolescents and adults confronting issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and relationship challenges, I am ready to guide you through your healing process. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in achieving your goals. Clients can expect to leave our sessions with a renewed sense of hope and calmness, believing in the potential for significant improvement in their lives, leading to inner peace and mental wellness. I value a collaborative approach that strengthens our therapeutic connection and empowers clients.
Utilizing my background in aiding adolescents and adults confronting issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and relationship challenges, I am ready to guide you through your healing process. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in achieving your goals. Clients can expect to leave our sessions with a renewed sense of hope and calmness, believing in the potential for significant improvement in their lives, leading to inner peace and mental wellness. I value a collaborative approach that strengthens our therapeutic connection and empowers clients.
(540) 917-5673 View (540) 917-5673
Photo of Sharalda Daniels - True Connections Counseling & Consulting, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
True Connections Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Currently NOT Accepting New Clients...Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or confused? Are you an individual who wants it all and does it all but rarely asks for help with any of it? Maybe life’s circumstances are causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inadequate. At times, it may be difficult to find the right words to describe what you are feeling and may need some clarity. If you feel this way and are ready for change, you don't have to go through this alone. In our sessions, you are provided a safe space where you can remove your "superhero” cape and be supported through the journey of self-awareness and positive change.
Currently NOT Accepting New Clients...Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or confused? Are you an individual who wants it all and does it all but rarely asks for help with any of it? Maybe life’s circumstances are causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inadequate. At times, it may be difficult to find the right words to describe what you are feeling and may need some clarity. If you feel this way and are ready for change, you don't have to go through this alone. In our sessions, you are provided a safe space where you can remove your "superhero” cape and be supported through the journey of self-awareness and positive change.
(804) 258-6941 View (804) 258-6941
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 23803

40+

Average cost per session

$122

Therapists in 23803 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Stress
68% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills
63% Anger Management
60% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% Anthem
81% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 23803 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

95% Female
3% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 23803?

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.