Therapists in 30115

Photo of Suzannah L Hutchins, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Suzannah L Hutchins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Canton, GA 30115
Helping couples and individuals grow stronger and more resilient to overcome life challenges, and to enjoy greater self awareness and a positive self image is at the heart of my work with clients. I have been married for 32 years and have both biological and adopted children, with various special needs, who have provided me with a wealth of life experience and a desire to see other families thrive personally and in relationship with each other. I have worked with people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficult relationships. Having someone to walk with during the difficult chapters in life can make all the difference.
Helping couples and individuals grow stronger and more resilient to overcome life challenges, and to enjoy greater self awareness and a positive self image is at the heart of my work with clients. I have been married for 32 years and have both biological and adopted children, with various special needs, who have provided me with a wealth of life experience and a desire to see other families thrive personally and in relationship with each other. I have worked with people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficult relationships. Having someone to walk with during the difficult chapters in life can make all the difference.
(540) 503-4527 View (540) 503-4527
Photo of Sydney Lawson, Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Sydney Lawson
Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Holly Springs, GA 30115
As an Art Therapist and Counselor, I am equipped to work with a variety of individuals in a myriad of ways. I utilize a person-centered, strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to understand and assist people through their struggles. I am able to provide 'traditional' counseling services as well as art therapy, behavior change approaches and EMDR to help you deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions and self-esteem struggles. I am direct, creative and open-minded and love working with people ages 10 and up.
As an Art Therapist and Counselor, I am equipped to work with a variety of individuals in a myriad of ways. I utilize a person-centered, strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to understand and assist people through their struggles. I am able to provide 'traditional' counseling services as well as art therapy, behavior change approaches and EMDR to help you deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions and self-esteem struggles. I am direct, creative and open-minded and love working with people ages 10 and up.
(678) 252-5168 View (678) 252-5168
Photo of Erin Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Erin Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
Life is consistently challenging all of us in a variety of ways. Whether the difficulties involve a major loss or transition, or conflicts with spouses, partners, children or work, everyone occasionally needs help to sort through our experiences and ensure we progress down a healthy path. I believe that all of us are individuals with our own distinct, and sometimes complex, circumstances. I pride myself in creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space that allows clients to freely, and confidentially explore their struggles.
Life is consistently challenging all of us in a variety of ways. Whether the difficulties involve a major loss or transition, or conflicts with spouses, partners, children or work, everyone occasionally needs help to sort through our experiences and ensure we progress down a healthy path. I believe that all of us are individuals with our own distinct, and sometimes complex, circumstances. I pride myself in creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space that allows clients to freely, and confidentially explore their struggles.
(678) 804-4359 View (678) 804-4359
Photo of Jon P Costales - Canton Counseling Jon Costales, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Canton Counseling Jon Costales
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
Navigating the complicated parts of life is easier with support. Grief, trauma, relationship changes, self-esteem and stability, all the challenges that most people will face at some point in their life, don’t have to be dealt with alone.
Navigating the complicated parts of life is easier with support. Grief, trauma, relationship changes, self-esteem and stability, all the challenges that most people will face at some point in their life, don’t have to be dealt with alone.
(404) 531-1485 View (404) 531-1485
Photo of Lauren Krumnaker, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACII
Lauren Krumnaker
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACII
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, GA 30115
As someone who has walked the path of recovery myself, I understand the courage it takes to reach out for support. My approach as a counselor is rooted in compassion, respect, and genuine understanding. With years of experience in both direct care and leadership roles, including as a program director at an inpatient facility. I have witnessed the power of individualized, client-centered support. I am here to listen, to walk beside you through challenges, and to empower you with practical tools for day-to-day use. Together, we will work at your pace to build a foundation for lasting change, healing, and hope.
As someone who has walked the path of recovery myself, I understand the courage it takes to reach out for support. My approach as a counselor is rooted in compassion, respect, and genuine understanding. With years of experience in both direct care and leadership roles, including as a program director at an inpatient facility. I have witnessed the power of individualized, client-centered support. I am here to listen, to walk beside you through challenges, and to empower you with practical tools for day-to-day use. Together, we will work at your pace to build a foundation for lasting change, healing, and hope.
(770) 604-1478 View (770) 604-1478
Photo of Canton Counseling - Canton Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Canton Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Canton, GA 30115
We all need support in dealing with life's challenges, but sometimes just asking for help can feel as overwhelming as the problems for which we are seeking support. The task of finding the right therapist can be difficult. Who can I trust? Will I be heard and understood? Will they work well with my children and/or family? We understand these concerns and work to create a compassionate therapeutic environment to help our clients grow and change.
We all need support in dealing with life's challenges, but sometimes just asking for help can feel as overwhelming as the problems for which we are seeking support. The task of finding the right therapist can be difficult. Who can I trust? Will I be heard and understood? Will they work well with my children and/or family? We understand these concerns and work to create a compassionate therapeutic environment to help our clients grow and change.
(678) 661-4528 View (678) 661-4528
Photo of Jodi Giuliano, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jodi Giuliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Canton, GA 30115
Since 2012 I have worked with teens, adults, couples and families. My primary areas of focus include: teenagers who struggle with anxiety, depression and overall life stressors; families in relationship conflict; young adults; individuals processing through divorce, loss or grief as well as parents working to find a good co-parenting space whether they are under the same roof or not. I am a licensed in the New Ways For Families coparenting model. I coordinate care with my fellow colleagues who may be working with different members of a family as well as the legal community working on behalf of parents and their children.
Since 2012 I have worked with teens, adults, couples and families. My primary areas of focus include: teenagers who struggle with anxiety, depression and overall life stressors; families in relationship conflict; young adults; individuals processing through divorce, loss or grief as well as parents working to find a good co-parenting space whether they are under the same roof or not. I am a licensed in the New Ways For Families coparenting model. I coordinate care with my fellow colleagues who may be working with different members of a family as well as the legal community working on behalf of parents and their children.
(770) 790-4461 View (770) 790-4461
Photo of Jonathan House, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACII, CBSP, CES, ARBS
Jonathan House
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACII, CBSP, CES, ARBS
3 Endorsed
Holly Springs, GA 30115
​I have been working with addiction for over eight years. Addiction in itself can be a traumatic event as it causes us to go against our morals. Addiction is a symptom of deeper unresolved experiences, contributes to shame, can produce anger, anxiety, and depression, as well as many other common symptoms. I have created research-driven, individualized treatment plans for every topic my clients present with. Each client has a different set of needs and goals, so I take a person-centered approach to best serve. In recovery, it is essential to identify our strengths and capitalize on these rather than only focusing on the problem.
​I have been working with addiction for over eight years. Addiction in itself can be a traumatic event as it causes us to go against our morals. Addiction is a symptom of deeper unresolved experiences, contributes to shame, can produce anger, anxiety, and depression, as well as many other common symptoms. I have created research-driven, individualized treatment plans for every topic my clients present with. Each client has a different set of needs and goals, so I take a person-centered approach to best serve. In recovery, it is essential to identify our strengths and capitalize on these rather than only focusing on the problem.
(470) 517-7747 View (470) 517-7747
Photo of Holley Noel, Associate Professional Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Holley Noel
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Holly Springs, GA 30115
As a counselor and sex therapist in training, I provide a safe, affirming space to explore life’s challenges—without judgment. I take a holistic, trauma-informed approach, honoring your unique story while using tailored tools to support healing and growth. I'm passionate about helping clients navigate identity, relationships, and sexuality with curiosity and compassion. Together, we'll sit in the messy middle and work toward a more empowered, connected life.
As a counselor and sex therapist in training, I provide a safe, affirming space to explore life’s challenges—without judgment. I take a holistic, trauma-informed approach, honoring your unique story while using tailored tools to support healing and growth. I'm passionate about helping clients navigate identity, relationships, and sexuality with curiosity and compassion. Together, we'll sit in the messy middle and work toward a more empowered, connected life.
(470) 284-0828 x416 View (470) 284-0828 x416
Photo of Jennie-Lynn S. Saccoccia - Canton Counseling--Jennie-Lynn Saccoccia, Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Canton Counseling--Jennie-Lynn Saccoccia
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Canton, GA 30115
Mental health struggles, counseling, and therapeutic relationship can be intimidating phrases. Whether you want a mental health check in, feel stuck in place, help with difficult transitions, or beginning a new exploration in your life, I would take the next steps alongside you.
Mental health struggles, counseling, and therapeutic relationship can be intimidating phrases. Whether you want a mental health check in, feel stuck in place, help with difficult transitions, or beginning a new exploration in your life, I would take the next steps alongside you.
(470) 458-3079 View (470) 458-3079
Photo of Debra Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
Debra Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
3 Endorsed
Holly Springs, GA 30115
Guiding people toward a healthier life is my intention. My clients include people of all ages, from 3 to 103. I also provide counseling services to divorcing couples who wish to develop skills for helping their children through the process. I have worked in mental health for 20+ years, both in public and private sectors. I provide in-person and telemental sessions for adults. I require that children be seen in person. I believe that a successful counseling relationship depends on mutual trust. Id like the opportunity to find out if we can develop that relationship.
Guiding people toward a healthier life is my intention. My clients include people of all ages, from 3 to 103. I also provide counseling services to divorcing couples who wish to develop skills for helping their children through the process. I have worked in mental health for 20+ years, both in public and private sectors. I provide in-person and telemental sessions for adults. I require that children be seen in person. I believe that a successful counseling relationship depends on mutual trust. Id like the opportunity to find out if we can develop that relationship.
(678) 780-4052 View (678) 780-4052
Photo of Robin Joiner, Counselor, LPC
Robin Joiner
Counselor, LPC
Canton, GA 30115
I believe people were never meant to do life on their own. Having a safe place were you can be heard, garner support and have the guidance you need while processing your feelings and emotions is so very important. As you tackle these tough times, I hope to be a small part in helping you navigate and understand your journey. Helping others has been a passion of mine for many years and I would be honored to be that helping hand or support you need.
I believe people were never meant to do life on their own. Having a safe place were you can be heard, garner support and have the guidance you need while processing your feelings and emotions is so very important. As you tackle these tough times, I hope to be a small part in helping you navigate and understand your journey. Helping others has been a passion of mine for many years and I would be honored to be that helping hand or support you need.
(678) 820-6281 View (678) 820-6281
Photo of Rosanna Saxton - Canton Counseling, Associate Professional Counselor, APC
Canton Counseling
Associate Professional Counselor, APC
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, GA 30115
As an Associate Professional Counselor, I am privileged to walk alongside clients on their personal growth and healing journey. I have a compassionate heart and my ultimate hope is to help people find their way in this often times messy world. Choosing to seek counseling can be intimidating and scary, and it can also be courageous and brave. We all experience challenging and stressful times in life. As humans, we are made for connection and don’t have to do everything on our own. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to express their unique needs.
As an Associate Professional Counselor, I am privileged to walk alongside clients on their personal growth and healing journey. I have a compassionate heart and my ultimate hope is to help people find their way in this often times messy world. Choosing to seek counseling can be intimidating and scary, and it can also be courageous and brave. We all experience challenging and stressful times in life. As humans, we are made for connection and don’t have to do everything on our own. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to express their unique needs.
(470) 988-9106 View (470) 988-9106
Photo of Derek L Struchtemeyer - Canton Counseling- Derek Struchtemeyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Canton Counseling- Derek Struchtemeyer, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
2 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
Seeking help for problems affecting your functioning and your life is challenging. Yet, deciding to address these issues can have life changing benefits. Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can be helped with therapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years I treat children, adolescents, adults, and couples. inclusion statement: I proudly welcome and respect all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, and I am committed to providing a safe and affirming therapy environment where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their unique needs and experiences.
Seeking help for problems affecting your functioning and your life is challenging. Yet, deciding to address these issues can have life changing benefits. Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can be helped with therapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years I treat children, adolescents, adults, and couples. inclusion statement: I proudly welcome and respect all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, and I am committed to providing a safe and affirming therapy environment where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their unique needs and experiences.
(678) 712-3435 View (678) 712-3435
Photo of Lauren T Moss - Canton Counseling-Lauren Moss, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Canton Counseling-Lauren Moss, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Holly Springs, GA 30115
Some seasons of life are especially stressful and challenging. During these times, it’s easy to feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. Change—whether within yourself, your relationships, or your circumstances—can feel overwhelming. Counseling can be a powerful catalyst for growth, healing, and clarity. I believe we all have the capacity to change and heal when we are supported and truly heard.
Some seasons of life are especially stressful and challenging. During these times, it’s easy to feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. Change—whether within yourself, your relationships, or your circumstances—can feel overwhelming. Counseling can be a powerful catalyst for growth, healing, and clarity. I believe we all have the capacity to change and heal when we are supported and truly heard.
(770) 762-6129 View (770) 762-6129
Photo of Angela Brettschneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CCTP-1, EMDR-AC
Angela Brettschneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CCTP-1, EMDR-AC
Holly Springs, GA 30115
I am and EMDR Clinician, Consultant and Trainer. Connecting with your Counselor and feeling safe and free to open up is the most important piece in the therapeutic process. The comment that I receive most often from clients is that I am easy to talk to, leading them to open up quickly because they feel safe and accepted. I have a passion for helping people heal, whether that is from a traumatic past or event, the hurt of past or present relationships, or the anxiety and depression that they are experiencing.
I am and EMDR Clinician, Consultant and Trainer. Connecting with your Counselor and feeling safe and free to open up is the most important piece in the therapeutic process. The comment that I receive most often from clients is that I am easy to talk to, leading them to open up quickly because they feel safe and accepted. I have a passion for helping people heal, whether that is from a traumatic past or event, the hurt of past or present relationships, or the anxiety and depression that they are experiencing.
(404) 341-6430 View (404) 341-6430
Photo of Kim Meredith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, NCC, LPC
Kim Meredith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, NCC, LPC
Holly Springs, GA 30115
The challenges of life can be overwhelming, with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, abuse, trauma, hurt relationships, wounds from childhood experiences…. The list of harms that we experience can feel endless. Relationship stress, with family and couple conflict is common. To counter this, communication, listening skills, and conflict resolution can be learned in therapy. Disagreements can become invitations to step into someone else’s shoes to gain their perspective, and for them to step into yours. Understanding and caring can deepen. The heart-changing gift of working through forgiveness and healing can lead to personal freedom.
The challenges of life can be overwhelming, with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, abuse, trauma, hurt relationships, wounds from childhood experiences…. The list of harms that we experience can feel endless. Relationship stress, with family and couple conflict is common. To counter this, communication, listening skills, and conflict resolution can be learned in therapy. Disagreements can become invitations to step into someone else’s shoes to gain their perspective, and for them to step into yours. Understanding and caring can deepen. The heart-changing gift of working through forgiveness and healing can lead to personal freedom.
(678) 757-3596 View (678) 757-3596
Photo of Taelar Bybee - Taelar Bybee - Canton Counseling, Counselor, MSEd, NCC, APC
Taelar Bybee - Canton Counseling
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, APC
Canton, GA 30115
Seeking support is a big step, and I'm so glad you are here. Therapy may be vulnerable at times, but it does not have to be intimidating or stressful with the right therapist. I believe therapy can be a helpful tool to learn how to get unstuck, overcome challenges, and become a healthier version of yourself. As your therapist, I will be alongside you as a trusted ally to offer comfort, non-judgment, and acceptance.
Seeking support is a big step, and I'm so glad you are here. Therapy may be vulnerable at times, but it does not have to be intimidating or stressful with the right therapist. I believe therapy can be a helpful tool to learn how to get unstuck, overcome challenges, and become a healthier version of yourself. As your therapist, I will be alongside you as a trusted ally to offer comfort, non-judgment, and acceptance.
(678) 880-4645 View (678) 880-4645
Photo of Noelle Beard, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Noelle Beard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
I'm a licensed therapist passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and confidence. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or simply seeking a deeper connection with yourself or others, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating room to ask meaningful questions and discover what healing and fulfillment can look like for you. My approach is collaborative, down-to-earth, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
I'm a licensed therapist passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and confidence. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or simply seeking a deeper connection with yourself or others, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating room to ask meaningful questions and discover what healing and fulfillment can look like for you. My approach is collaborative, down-to-earth, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(770) 270-3364 View (770) 270-3364
Photo of Amy Brockman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Amy Brockman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
My hope as a therapist is to provide support by developing a genuine therapeutic relationship built on a foundation of encouragement and collaboration, with unconditional, positive support. My goal is to provide a warm and trusting environment for you to explore and share your thoughts and feelings. I work on issues associated with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, marital &relationship issues, career & assertiveness training among other things. I enjoy working with couples, adolescents & adults. I value my work with couples, individuals on autism spectrum, older adult, & families struggling with caregiving.
My hope as a therapist is to provide support by developing a genuine therapeutic relationship built on a foundation of encouragement and collaboration, with unconditional, positive support. My goal is to provide a warm and trusting environment for you to explore and share your thoughts and feelings. I work on issues associated with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, marital &relationship issues, career & assertiveness training among other things. I enjoy working with couples, adolescents & adults. I value my work with couples, individuals on autism spectrum, older adult, & families struggling with caregiving.
(678) 712-4777 View (678) 712-4777

See more therapy options for 30115

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 30115

90+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 30115 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
76% Self Esteem
71% Grief
68% Relationship Issues
63% Trauma and PTSD
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 30115 see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 30115?

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.