Therapists in 29550

Photo of Keri Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC/S
Keri Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC/S
Hartsville, SC 29550
My name is Keri Davis. I have a Masters in Professional Mental Health Counseling and have been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor for over 10 years. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including people with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other life stressors. Often times, we find ourselves lost in the midst of these mental and emotional storms and are in need of a safe harbor or sturdy anchor until we can find our true selves again. Counseling helps navigate us through the storm until we are once again centered and well, both emotionally and mentally.
My name is Keri Davis. I have a Masters in Professional Mental Health Counseling and have been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor for over 10 years. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including people with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other life stressors. Often times, we find ourselves lost in the midst of these mental and emotional storms and are in need of a safe harbor or sturdy anchor until we can find our true selves again. Counseling helps navigate us through the storm until we are once again centered and well, both emotionally and mentally.
(843) 508-6793 View (843) 508-6793
Photo of Courtney O’Neal - C O’Neal’s Care, LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MS, ADC, SAP
C O’Neal’s Care, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MS, ADC, SAP
1 Endorsed
Hartsville, SC 29550
Taking the steps to make a change in your life or overcome obstacles can some times be difficult or challenging. Making the step towards making the changes, is the first step. You can do it and I can assist you with providing effective services. As a Mental Health professional, I have worked with many individuals in past years from different genders, backgrounds, ethnicity, religions and population, such as Substance Abuse, Intellectual Disabilities, Youth with Behavioral issues, and much more. I have learned that we all are unique in our own ways. We are individuals with many differences which makes us who we are.
Taking the steps to make a change in your life or overcome obstacles can some times be difficult or challenging. Making the step towards making the changes, is the first step. You can do it and I can assist you with providing effective services. As a Mental Health professional, I have worked with many individuals in past years from different genders, backgrounds, ethnicity, religions and population, such as Substance Abuse, Intellectual Disabilities, Youth with Behavioral issues, and much more. I have learned that we all are unique in our own ways. We are individuals with many differences which makes us who we are.
(843) 594-0481 View (843) 594-0481
Photo of Christine Ashley Coker Ballenger - The Women's Center For Psychological Testing, Psychologist, PsyD
Licensed Clinical/Health Service Provider Psychologist -extensive background in providing evidence-based psychological evaluation, comprehensive diagnostics, consultation, and treatment referrals -specialty practice for women offering clinical evaluations of psychological and cognitive functioning for advanced diagnostic clarification -high emphasis on collaborating with other area healthcare providers, multidisciplinary care teams, and additional local resources to promote continuity of care and to assist in establishing the most appropriate treatment regimen for each individual patient
Licensed Clinical/Health Service Provider Psychologist -extensive background in providing evidence-based psychological evaluation, comprehensive diagnostics, consultation, and treatment referrals -specialty practice for women offering clinical evaluations of psychological and cognitive functioning for advanced diagnostic clarification -high emphasis on collaborating with other area healthcare providers, multidisciplinary care teams, and additional local resources to promote continuity of care and to assist in establishing the most appropriate treatment regimen for each individual patient
(540) 684-1456 View (540) 684-1456
Photo of Chris Ann McCann - Compass Counseling, LLC Mt/Sc, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC, LPC
Compass Counseling, LLC Mt/Sc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC, LPC
Hartsville, SC 29550
Call it childhood trauma, stressful childhood, or even if your experience was one to treasure; these experiences shape our behaviors and our nervous system. Maybe you struggle with self-worth and self-esteem, or communicating your needs because you witnessed and/or experienced abuse. Understanding how that impacts our decision making in our adulthood is the beginning of your healing journey. When we know better, we do better and by giving awareness to yourself as an adult, you will learn a new love language through the power of healing.
Call it childhood trauma, stressful childhood, or even if your experience was one to treasure; these experiences shape our behaviors and our nervous system. Maybe you struggle with self-worth and self-esteem, or communicating your needs because you witnessed and/or experienced abuse. Understanding how that impacts our decision making in our adulthood is the beginning of your healing journey. When we know better, we do better and by giving awareness to yourself as an adult, you will learn a new love language through the power of healing.
(803) 784-3523 View (803) 784-3523
Photo of Samuel Pressly Coker, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Samuel Pressly Coker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Hartsville, SC 29550
As a counselor, my focus is to assist or guide clients toward finding a better path forward no matter the challenges or obstacles. As a solution-focused, strength-based, positive, and Christian oriented therapist, my goal is to help you find your potential and a life that is full and blessed. We all face life challenges and while we cannot change the past, working together, we can determine lessons learned, meaning, and a better and more rewarding path forward.
As a counselor, my focus is to assist or guide clients toward finding a better path forward no matter the challenges or obstacles. As a solution-focused, strength-based, positive, and Christian oriented therapist, my goal is to help you find your potential and a life that is full and blessed. We all face life challenges and while we cannot change the past, working together, we can determine lessons learned, meaning, and a better and more rewarding path forward.
(843) 612-1486 View (843) 612-1486
Photo of Ouida K. Page, Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, NBCC
Ouida K. Page
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, NBCC
Hartsville, SC 29550
In-person & telehealth appointments available within 2 weeks! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and RN with 40 years of experience focusing on psychiatric nursing. Located in Hartsville, SC, I’m in network with Blue Cross and offer a sliding scale. I offer a comprehensive approach and view your situation differently than most counselors. I see all ages 2 - 80 years old. I studied exercise and nutrition and use this background to promote a healthy mind and body in my sessions. I excel at assessments and diagnosing emotional and behavioral issues.
In-person & telehealth appointments available within 2 weeks! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and RN with 40 years of experience focusing on psychiatric nursing. Located in Hartsville, SC, I’m in network with Blue Cross and offer a sliding scale. I offer a comprehensive approach and view your situation differently than most counselors. I see all ages 2 - 80 years old. I studied exercise and nutrition and use this background to promote a healthy mind and body in my sessions. I excel at assessments and diagnosing emotional and behavioral issues.
(843) 319-4606 View (843) 319-4606
Photo of Shakia Fuller, Counselor, MS, LPC, CAMS-II, CCTSF, NCC
Shakia Fuller
Counselor, MS, LPC, CAMS-II, CCTSF, NCC
Hartsville, SC 29550
My name is Shakia Fuller! I am passionate about assisting individuals in his/her self-investment journey. My self-pay rate starts at $120. If you or a family member are experiencing unwanted situations causing anxiety, sadness, grief, difficulties in romantic relationships, family relational issues, esteem issues, identity issues, trauma, and/or work burnout; emotional struggles such as stress and depression, I am here to assist. If you are a busy individual, no worries, I have late evening and weekend appointments available!
My name is Shakia Fuller! I am passionate about assisting individuals in his/her self-investment journey. My self-pay rate starts at $120. If you or a family member are experiencing unwanted situations causing anxiety, sadness, grief, difficulties in romantic relationships, family relational issues, esteem issues, identity issues, trauma, and/or work burnout; emotional struggles such as stress and depression, I am here to assist. If you are a busy individual, no worries, I have late evening and weekend appointments available!
(843) 758-1120 View (843) 758-1120
Photo of Sarah Baird, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC
Sarah Baird
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC
2 Endorsed
Hartsville, SC 29550
Hi there, I’m Sarah — a therapist who works with teens (16+) and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and overwhelming life stressors. If you’re feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck in survival mode, or pulled in too many directions, you don’t have to handle it alone. Life can feel chaotic when anxiety is high, mood feels unpredictable, or past experiences continue to show up in the present. I provide a supportive, safe, and affirming space where you can slow down, unpack what you’ve been carrying, and express yourself openly — without judgment and with genuine empathy.
Hi there, I’m Sarah — a therapist who works with teens (16+) and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and overwhelming life stressors. If you’re feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck in survival mode, or pulled in too many directions, you don’t have to handle it alone. Life can feel chaotic when anxiety is high, mood feels unpredictable, or past experiences continue to show up in the present. I provide a supportive, safe, and affirming space where you can slow down, unpack what you’ve been carrying, and express yourself openly — without judgment and with genuine empathy.
(980) 400-7122 View (980) 400-7122
Photo of Sherie D Jenkins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sherie D Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Does it feel like you're often misunderstood or can't do anything right? Does it seem nearly impossible to make any progress towards what you desire, whether at work or in your relationships? Perhaps you find yourself stuck in dynamics that leave you feeling small or constantly burdened. You do all you can to please everyone, but you still can't help but to feel unappreciated or simply broken. You're not broken, and you don't have to continue focusing only on everyone else's happiness to the detriment of your own.
Does it feel like you're often misunderstood or can't do anything right? Does it seem nearly impossible to make any progress towards what you desire, whether at work or in your relationships? Perhaps you find yourself stuck in dynamics that leave you feeling small or constantly burdened. You do all you can to please everyone, but you still can't help but to feel unappreciated or simply broken. You're not broken, and you don't have to continue focusing only on everyone else's happiness to the detriment of your own.
(803) 291-5663 View (803) 291-5663
Photo of Dr. Jamie Mazgaj, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Dr. Jamie Mazgaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Serves Area
Hi I'm Jamie Mazgaj, and I look forward to working with you. Thank you so much for taking a look at my profile. I have 28 years of experience counseling adults, children, and adolescents both in clinic and school settings. My goal is to help put the missing pieces of your life back together again. I look forward to working with you!
Hi I'm Jamie Mazgaj, and I look forward to working with you. Thank you so much for taking a look at my profile. I have 28 years of experience counseling adults, children, and adolescents both in clinic and school settings. My goal is to help put the missing pieces of your life back together again. I look forward to working with you!
(843) 400-4351 View (843) 400-4351
Photo of Jackie E Griffin, Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Jackie E Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
A privately owned counseling center for adolescents, adults, and couples to promote personal growth and healing. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and trauma related isses our goal is to reduce your symptoms of distress and build healthy coping skills to improve your daily quality of living. Jackie has experience working with a wide range of issues including ADHD, OCD, sadness, low self esteem, traumatic abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss and womens issues. Jackie is Nationally Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and uses an empathetic, cognitive behavioral approach.
A privately owned counseling center for adolescents, adults, and couples to promote personal growth and healing. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and trauma related isses our goal is to reduce your symptoms of distress and build healthy coping skills to improve your daily quality of living. Jackie has experience working with a wide range of issues including ADHD, OCD, sadness, low self esteem, traumatic abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss and womens issues. Jackie is Nationally Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and uses an empathetic, cognitive behavioral approach.
(843) 920-2640 View (843) 920-2640
Photo of Michelle Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Michelle Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I am a licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina. Palmetto state born, raised, and educated. I am a proud Francis Marion College (now University) patriot, where I completed a Bachelor of Science. I earned my Master of Arts at the Myrtle Beach campus of Webster University, and I have an Honors of Divinity. I did work as a Ph. D. candidate at Walden University with a concentration in human sexuality. I have more than 30 years in the healing/helping profession. My faith tradition has a tremendous influence on my belief that Love is essential in a thriving community and that community's people.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina. Palmetto state born, raised, and educated. I am a proud Francis Marion College (now University) patriot, where I completed a Bachelor of Science. I earned my Master of Arts at the Myrtle Beach campus of Webster University, and I have an Honors of Divinity. I did work as a Ph. D. candidate at Walden University with a concentration in human sexuality. I have more than 30 years in the healing/helping profession. My faith tradition has a tremendous influence on my belief that Love is essential in a thriving community and that community's people.
(854) 238-3050 View (854) 238-3050
Photo of Jordan C Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAAT, ATR, CLC, RYT-200
Jordan C Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAAT, ATR, CLC, RYT-200
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The recorded conversations on replay in your mind are so loud and pervasive that the only thing that stops the noise is distraction. So, you find yourself scrolling SM, binging a TV show, or sleeping... ALOT. But, at times even distraction isn’t enough. You’re finally realizing this painstaking cycle of avoidance in your life, not just avoiding the big things, but even the IDEA of facing any emotion at all. You are ready for a change! But, change is hard. You've tried before and failed. You've done therapy in the past. You've read self-help books. You feel as though nothing will ever change. You've all but given up hope.
The recorded conversations on replay in your mind are so loud and pervasive that the only thing that stops the noise is distraction. So, you find yourself scrolling SM, binging a TV show, or sleeping... ALOT. But, at times even distraction isn’t enough. You’re finally realizing this painstaking cycle of avoidance in your life, not just avoiding the big things, but even the IDEA of facing any emotion at all. You are ready for a change! But, change is hard. You've tried before and failed. You've done therapy in the past. You've read self-help books. You feel as though nothing will ever change. You've all but given up hope.
(843) 279-4855 View (843) 279-4855
Photo of Wanda L. James, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Wanda L. James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
It is my passion to empower you to be your best self and to work through your issues. I am passionate about your relationships. I know the need and importance to provide you with day to day help. I encourage self growth. I believe that happiness can exist. I will educate you about your choices in life. There is Change within Your Reach.
It is my passion to empower you to be your best self and to work through your issues. I am passionate about your relationships. I know the need and importance to provide you with day to day help. I encourage self growth. I believe that happiness can exist. I will educate you about your choices in life. There is Change within Your Reach.
(843) 779-8912 View (843) 779-8912
Photo of Mike Rintelman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mike Rintelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can be hard and challenges can come when we least expect them. Navigating through challenges can seem overwhleming. Many times there seems to be no viable alternative or clear path forward. That's when working with a skilled and experienced therapist can make all the difference. Helping others navigate the hard work of change has been my focus for over 20 years. I approach each therapy session with compassion and direction. Compassion to understand the challeges ahead and the direction to navigate a path to health and wholeness.
Life can be hard and challenges can come when we least expect them. Navigating through challenges can seem overwhleming. Many times there seems to be no viable alternative or clear path forward. That's when working with a skilled and experienced therapist can make all the difference. Helping others navigate the hard work of change has been my focus for over 20 years. I approach each therapy session with compassion and direction. Compassion to understand the challeges ahead and the direction to navigate a path to health and wholeness.
(843) 350-9731 View (843) 350-9731
Photo of Laura Langley Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCS
Laura Langley Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
A privately owned counseling center for children, adolescents, adults, and families to promote personal growth and healing. Our goal is to help individuals, couples, and families learn and utilize healthy coping skills to reduce their distress and improve their daily functioning.
A privately owned counseling center for children, adolescents, adults, and families to promote personal growth and healing. Our goal is to help individuals, couples, and families learn and utilize healthy coping skills to reduce their distress and improve their daily functioning.
(843) 350-6423 View (843) 350-6423
Photo of Rose Yeagley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, AADC
Rose Yeagley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, AADC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hey, I'm Rose! I work with people who are trying to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, financial issues, ADHD, and other areas of concern. Whether you're looking to work through a specific problem or to explore recurring problems in your life, therapy can help! My approach to therapy often involves Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), though it's personalized for each patient's needs. Everything is figureoutable and we will work together to figure it out!
Hey, I'm Rose! I work with people who are trying to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, financial issues, ADHD, and other areas of concern. Whether you're looking to work through a specific problem or to explore recurring problems in your life, therapy can help! My approach to therapy often involves Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), though it's personalized for each patient's needs. Everything is figureoutable and we will work together to figure it out!
(843) 489-8944 View (843) 489-8944
Photo of Rachael Forbes, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rachael Forbes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and parenting-related stress. Many of the people I support are navigating stress-related, adjustment, or mood disorders and are seeking relief, understanding, and practical tools to improve their emotional well-being and relationships.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and parenting-related stress. Many of the people I support are navigating stress-related, adjustment, or mood disorders and are seeking relief, understanding, and practical tools to improve their emotional well-being and relationships.
(820) 348-5097 View (820) 348-5097
Photo of Dorothy M. Selmon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Dorothy M. Selmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Are you feeling isolated, struggling with purpose, or managing overwhelming emotions like guilt and shame? I'm committed to walking alongside individuals as they develop resilience, rediscover inner strength, and move toward emotional wellness. I help clients address, anxiety, stress, and life transitions with compassionate, faith-informed care.
Are you feeling isolated, struggling with purpose, or managing overwhelming emotions like guilt and shame? I'm committed to walking alongside individuals as they develop resilience, rediscover inner strength, and move toward emotional wellness. I help clients address, anxiety, stress, and life transitions with compassionate, faith-informed care.
(843) 625-3696 View (843) 625-3696

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ryedenna Simon-McQueen - S.I.M.O.N. Counseling and Consulting Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC/S, LAC, MAC, AADC Wh
S.I.M.O.N. Counseling and Consulting Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC/S, LAC, MAC, AADC Wh
2 Endorsed
Florence, SC 29506
Thank you for exploring S.I.M.O.N. Counseling and Consulting Services. As a Licensed Professional and Substance Abuse Counselor, my scope of services includes depression, anxiety, grief /loss, PTSD, domestic violence, abuse, communication, self-awareness, substance abuse as well as non-compliance. Special populations encompass adolescents, women and family units that are served in individual, couple, family unit and group settings. Strategies provided are designed to promote self-enrichment, acceptance, accountability and personal responsibility.
Thank you for exploring S.I.M.O.N. Counseling and Consulting Services. As a Licensed Professional and Substance Abuse Counselor, my scope of services includes depression, anxiety, grief /loss, PTSD, domestic violence, abuse, communication, self-awareness, substance abuse as well as non-compliance. Special populations encompass adolescents, women and family units that are served in individual, couple, family unit and group settings. Strategies provided are designed to promote self-enrichment, acceptance, accountability and personal responsibility.
(843) 508-6968 View (843) 508-6968

See more therapy options for 29550

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 29550

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 29550 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
84% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
79% Grief
74% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Cigna and Evernorth
73% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 29550 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 29550?

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.