Therapists in Canton, GA

Photo of Jonathan House, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Canton, GA
Jonathan House
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACI, BSPP, CES, ARBS
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114
​I have been in the recovery field for 7 years and have seen a wide range of issues related to addiction. Addiction in itself can be a traumatic event as it causes us to go against our morals. Addiction often contributes to shame and can produce anger, anxiety& depression as well as a wide range of other issues. I have created treatment plans for every issue my clients have presented with as related to addiction. Each client has a different set of issues, needs and goals so I take a person-centered approach to best meet those needs. It's important to identify our strengths and capitalize on these rather than focusing on the problem.
​I have been in the recovery field for 7 years and have seen a wide range of issues related to addiction. Addiction in itself can be a traumatic event as it causes us to go against our morals. Addiction often contributes to shame and can produce anger, anxiety& depression as well as a wide range of other issues. I have created treatment plans for every issue my clients have presented with as related to addiction. Each client has a different set of issues, needs and goals so I take a person-centered approach to best meet those needs. It's important to identify our strengths and capitalize on these rather than focusing on the problem.
(470) 517-7747 View (470) 517-7747
Photo of Allison Cordts - Sunrise Therapy For Mental Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Allison Cordts - Sunrise Therapy For Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30115  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional Mental Health Counselor for the state of Georgia. All individuals have the capacity to live fulfilling lives if given the coping skills and strategies for mental and psychological health and growth. Helping clients gain awareness of their own personal power in order to move forward in a positive way is the focus and joy of my practice. I am a non-secular therapist though I embrace all "spiritualities." I believe, when possible, working through challenges med free is important to avoid an emotional and/or physical dependency.
I am a licensed professional Mental Health Counselor for the state of Georgia. All individuals have the capacity to live fulfilling lives if given the coping skills and strategies for mental and psychological health and growth. Helping clients gain awareness of their own personal power in order to move forward in a positive way is the focus and joy of my practice. I am a non-secular therapist though I embrace all "spiritualities." I believe, when possible, working through challenges med free is important to avoid an emotional and/or physical dependency.
(770) 289-7113 View (770) 289-7113
Photo of Heather Fass, Marriage & Family Therapist in Canton, GA
Heather Fass
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in your life or do you see your child struggling in theirs? Do you keep trying to find new ways to navigate your life or relationships but find yourself repeating the same cycles and struggling to move forward? If you are looking to make personal changes or think your teen could benefit from some therapeutic support, I'd like to be there to help with that process. Change isn't easy and sometimes people need someone that is outside of their daily world to share thoughts, feelings and problems with in order to gain insight about themselves and help them reach their goals. I'd like to be that person for you.
Do you feel stuck in your life or do you see your child struggling in theirs? Do you keep trying to find new ways to navigate your life or relationships but find yourself repeating the same cycles and struggling to move forward? If you are looking to make personal changes or think your teen could benefit from some therapeutic support, I'd like to be there to help with that process. Change isn't easy and sometimes people need someone that is outside of their daily world to share thoughts, feelings and problems with in order to gain insight about themselves and help them reach their goals. I'd like to be that person for you.
(404) 981-7534 View (404) 981-7534
Photo of Kellye Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Kellye Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114
Life does not come with an instruction manual. We all find ourselves at times feeling overwhelmed, lost, or in need to reconnect with ourselves and our goals and values. Whether you are dealing with a significant life issue or want to learn skills and techniques to help you better understand yourself, I will guide you through your individual process. Let's work together to evaluate what is working in your life and your strengths and areas you'd like to focus on to improve. Through a collaborative approach, we will create goals, and a pathway to enable you to become your best self!
Life does not come with an instruction manual. We all find ourselves at times feeling overwhelmed, lost, or in need to reconnect with ourselves and our goals and values. Whether you are dealing with a significant life issue or want to learn skills and techniques to help you better understand yourself, I will guide you through your individual process. Let's work together to evaluate what is working in your life and your strengths and areas you'd like to focus on to improve. Through a collaborative approach, we will create goals, and a pathway to enable you to become your best self!
(470) 236-5307 View (470) 236-5307
Photo of Sera Turgut, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Sera Turgut
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My approach is to provide holistic care that focuses on three components of good health—the mind, body, and spirit. Instead of simply tolerating, slowing the progression of, or treating the symptoms of an illness, the purpose of therapy is to promote healing by treating the root causes. Through education, skills, connection, and lifestyle changes, I believe people can reclaim their health and regain control over their own wellbeing, and my goal is for you to leave therapy feeling self-empowered and resilient.
My approach is to provide holistic care that focuses on three components of good health—the mind, body, and spirit. Instead of simply tolerating, slowing the progression of, or treating the symptoms of an illness, the purpose of therapy is to promote healing by treating the root causes. Through education, skills, connection, and lifestyle changes, I believe people can reclaim their health and regain control over their own wellbeing, and my goal is for you to leave therapy feeling self-empowered and resilient.
(470) 380-7630 View (470) 380-7630
Photo of Laura Wagar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Laura Wagar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30114
Laura has been in the mental health field for 10 years. Starting off in crisis stabilization and moving into primary substance abuse programs has allowed her to work with a wide range of diagnoses and has given her a deeper understanding of the person as a whole being. She is able to work with clients who struggle with substance abuse diagnoses, personality disorder diagnoses, anxiety, depression, trauma and everything in between. Laura is certified in Rapid Resolution Therapy.
Laura has been in the mental health field for 10 years. Starting off in crisis stabilization and moving into primary substance abuse programs has allowed her to work with a wide range of diagnoses and has given her a deeper understanding of the person as a whole being. She is able to work with clients who struggle with substance abuse diagnoses, personality disorder diagnoses, anxiety, depression, trauma and everything in between. Laura is certified in Rapid Resolution Therapy.
(470) 664-5338 View (470) 664-5338
Photo of Canton Counseling- Derek Struchtemeyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Canton Counseling- Derek Struchtemeyer, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
Seeking help for problems that are affecting your functioning, moods, family, and your life can be challenging. Yet and still, making the decision to address these issues can have life changing benefits. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, parenting challenges, coping skills, or grief, professional counseling can help. I have over 20 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor helping children, adolescents, couples, and individuals. And I am confident of the support I can offer you and your loved ones to facilitate personal change.
Seeking help for problems that are affecting your functioning, moods, family, and your life can be challenging. Yet and still, making the decision to address these issues can have life changing benefits. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, parenting challenges, coping skills, or grief, professional counseling can help. I have over 20 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor helping children, adolescents, couples, and individuals. And I am confident of the support I can offer you and your loved ones to facilitate personal change.
(678) 712-3435 View (678) 712-3435
Photo of Canton Counseling - Marlo Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Canton Counseling - Marlo Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
Have you ever known what you wanted but you just couldn’t figure out how to get there? I have had many moments in life where I felt stuck and could not seem to get past it on my own. Being in the client’s seat gave me the opportunity to realize just how much power and potential I hold, but needed help removing the obstacles in my path. I recognize that the client is the driver on their journey through life, but that I can come along and hold the map. I love meeting new people and being given the opportunity to help others realize their power and capability of living a fulfilled and positive life.
Have you ever known what you wanted but you just couldn’t figure out how to get there? I have had many moments in life where I felt stuck and could not seem to get past it on my own. Being in the client’s seat gave me the opportunity to realize just how much power and potential I hold, but needed help removing the obstacles in my path. I recognize that the client is the driver on their journey through life, but that I can come along and hold the map. I love meeting new people and being given the opportunity to help others realize their power and capability of living a fulfilled and positive life.
(678) 543-0588 View (678) 543-0588
Photo of Canton Counseling- Michelle L. Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Canton Counseling- Michelle L. Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114
We all face challenges in this wonderful thing we call life. It is not uncommon to feel as if our lives are unraveling when such challenges arise. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope and excitement. I believe that we all need someone to talk to who will really listen to us without judgement in a warm, safe environment. Counseling Approaches: CBT; Solution-Focused Therapy; Gottman Method Couples Therapy
We all face challenges in this wonderful thing we call life. It is not uncommon to feel as if our lives are unraveling when such challenges arise. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope and excitement. I believe that we all need someone to talk to who will really listen to us without judgement in a warm, safe environment. Counseling Approaches: CBT; Solution-Focused Therapy; Gottman Method Couples Therapy
(678) 359-4017 View (678) 359-4017
Photo of Christina Tzortzinakis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Christina Tzortzinakis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114
I am a clinical mental health counselor working in a private practice in Canton. I believe that it takes great strength to reach out and make that first step to seek out guidance and support. I approach counseling as a journey, which requires understanding, empathy, and a nonjudgmental stance. I aim to shape my treatment style around your specific needs. I believe that everyone has potential to grow and heal and that many of us have difficulty in reaching that potential without a little guidance, support, and encouragement.
I am a clinical mental health counselor working in a private practice in Canton. I believe that it takes great strength to reach out and make that first step to seek out guidance and support. I approach counseling as a journey, which requires understanding, empathy, and a nonjudgmental stance. I aim to shape my treatment style around your specific needs. I believe that everyone has potential to grow and heal and that many of us have difficulty in reaching that potential without a little guidance, support, and encouragement.
(770) 467-3778 View (770) 467-3778
Photo of Karen Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Canton, GA
Karen Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114
I provide individualized and compassionate care and work collaboratively with my clients in developing a treatment plan that is tailored for them. In addition, as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I look at family systems and how relationships may be impacting the healing process. I also draw from the following therapeutic approaches and utilize techniques from: Solution-Focused, CBT, Behavioral, Mindfulness, Narrative, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy. In a therapy session you can expect an accepting, warm and encouraging environment created to foster growth and healing.
I provide individualized and compassionate care and work collaboratively with my clients in developing a treatment plan that is tailored for them. In addition, as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I look at family systems and how relationships may be impacting the healing process. I also draw from the following therapeutic approaches and utilize techniques from: Solution-Focused, CBT, Behavioral, Mindfulness, Narrative, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy. In a therapy session you can expect an accepting, warm and encouraging environment created to foster growth and healing.
(770) 415-0851 View (770) 415-0851
Photo of Kelsey Scott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Canton, GA
Kelsey Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30114
Hi, I’m so happy that you're here! Searching for a therapist and starting therapy can be so daunting. I am so proud of you for taking that first step! From the start of our journey together, I will be cheering you on. When you can’t find your hope, I’ll hold it for you. When we’re together, regardless if we are in the office or on Telehealth - this is a judgement free zone. You are in a safe space with me and there is no failing in our time together. We will focus on your strengths and use those to build a foundation for your challenges.
Hi, I’m so happy that you're here! Searching for a therapist and starting therapy can be so daunting. I am so proud of you for taking that first step! From the start of our journey together, I will be cheering you on. When you can’t find your hope, I’ll hold it for you. When we’re together, regardless if we are in the office or on Telehealth - this is a judgement free zone. You are in a safe space with me and there is no failing in our time together. We will focus on your strengths and use those to build a foundation for your challenges.
(770) 525-9379 View (770) 525-9379
Photo of Schyler Callaway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Canton, GA
Schyler Callaway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30114
My passion lies in working with women and mothers to provide gender specific treatment geared toward Women’s Mental Health, along with Maternal and Infant Health; to promote the healing and prevention of intergenerational trauma.
My passion lies in working with women and mothers to provide gender specific treatment geared toward Women’s Mental Health, along with Maternal and Infant Health; to promote the healing and prevention of intergenerational trauma.
(770) 670-7329 View (770) 670-7329
Photo of Shae Chisman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Canton, GA
Shae Chisman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30114
Finding an inclusive, affirming, and radical therapist in the South can be disheartening. I am here to help marginalized/minority people and their relations to navigate the challenges our society places on them. As a mixed-Indigenous, queer, cisgender woman, I welcome adult clients who are exploring their multi-layered identity, navigating difficult family/community dynamics, searching for chosen family, and healing from past/current trauma. I warmly invite neurodiverse folks who want to empower themselves and learn more about their inherent strengths. I am kink and poly/nonmonogamy affirming too! All are welcome here.
Finding an inclusive, affirming, and radical therapist in the South can be disheartening. I am here to help marginalized/minority people and their relations to navigate the challenges our society places on them. As a mixed-Indigenous, queer, cisgender woman, I welcome adult clients who are exploring their multi-layered identity, navigating difficult family/community dynamics, searching for chosen family, and healing from past/current trauma. I warmly invite neurodiverse folks who want to empower themselves and learn more about their inherent strengths. I am kink and poly/nonmonogamy affirming too! All are welcome here.
(404) 476-7064 View (404) 476-7064
Photo of Canton Counseling- Erin Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Canton Counseling- Erin Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
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 Tawanda R Scales, Marriage & Family Therapist in Canton, GA
Tawanda R Scales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30115
Like you, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Tawanda Scales has seen the demise of promising careers, businesses, families, and relationships due to basic “people problems”. From aspiring to be something greater to the joy of parenthood, how we relate to others and more importantly relate to ourselves proves to show a strong correlation to a life of success. With nearly two decades of social services, mental health counseling, and professional training experience centered around crisis and adjustment, her view of relationship success is revolutionary.
Like you, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Tawanda Scales has seen the demise of promising careers, businesses, families, and relationships due to basic “people problems”. From aspiring to be something greater to the joy of parenthood, how we relate to others and more importantly relate to ourselves proves to show a strong correlation to a life of success. With nearly two decades of social services, mental health counseling, and professional training experience centered around crisis and adjustment, her view of relationship success is revolutionary.
(404) 491-8089 View (404) 491-8089
Photo of Samuel A. Mahabadi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Canton, GA
Samuel A. Mahabadi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPD, SIFI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30114  (Online Only)
My ideal client is willing and ready to enter the therapeutic process, to learn about themselves and be brave enough to trust the process and embrace change. Open-minded, hopeful and desiring of better for themselves!
My ideal client is willing and ready to enter the therapeutic process, to learn about themselves and be brave enough to trust the process and embrace change. Open-minded, hopeful and desiring of better for themselves!
(470) 748-4256 View (470) 748-4256
Photo of Angela Dixon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Canton, GA
Angela Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30114  (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship or a loss of a sense of self that affects how you function? Do you feel sad, exhausted or overwhelmed by how you are feeling? I believe that you can overcome your feelings and circumstances: it should not be so hard to live better, there is hope.
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship or a loss of a sense of self that affects how you function? Do you feel sad, exhausted or overwhelmed by how you are feeling? I believe that you can overcome your feelings and circumstances: it should not be so hard to live better, there is hope.
(770) 562-7132 View (770) 562-7132
Photo of Canton Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Canton Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
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 Jack Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, GA
Jack Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canton, GA 30114
"Restoring Hope....Rebuilding Lives".....this is what I've helped others like you accomplish for thirty years. Whatever you're facing, I will help you to identify the problem, develop a game plan and then lead you toward the peace and happiness you desire. You must have a qualified, experienced and compassionate therapist in order to successfully overcome what's keeping you from living a happy, balanced life. I offer either Conventional or Christian counseling in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Since 1987, I have been licensed in the State of Georgia as a LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor.
"Restoring Hope....Rebuilding Lives".....this is what I've helped others like you accomplish for thirty years. Whatever you're facing, I will help you to identify the problem, develop a game plan and then lead you toward the peace and happiness you desire. You must have a qualified, experienced and compassionate therapist in order to successfully overcome what's keeping you from living a happy, balanced life. I offer either Conventional or Christian counseling in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Since 1987, I have been licensed in the State of Georgia as a LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor.
(678) 558-2049 View (678) 558-2049

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Canton, GA

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Canton, GA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
91% Depression
73% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
63% Grief
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Canton, GA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Canton?

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.