Therapists in Grenada County, MS

Photo of Patricia Busby-Robinson - PBR Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor, DPC, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
PBR Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, DPC, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
1 Endorsed
Grenada, MS 38901
PBR Counseling Center, LLC provides counseling services to individuals who are dealing with a variety of issues, not limited to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, sex therapy, marriage/couples counseling, family counseling, grief counseling, and PBR works with individuals whom have endured miscarriages, cancer or cancer diagnosis, anger management or anything that may have altered your life & behavior. It is understood that life can take us on various twists & turns but you do not have to deal with those things alone, so contact PBR Counseling Center today.
PBR Counseling Center, LLC provides counseling services to individuals who are dealing with a variety of issues, not limited to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, sex therapy, marriage/couples counseling, family counseling, grief counseling, and PBR works with individuals whom have endured miscarriages, cancer or cancer diagnosis, anger management or anything that may have altered your life & behavior. It is understood that life can take us on various twists & turns but you do not have to deal with those things alone, so contact PBR Counseling Center today.
(662) 644-0590 View (662) 644-0590
Photo of Laura Deanna Woods., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laura Deanna Woods.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Grenada, MS 38901
You’ve tried to cope on your own, but deep down you know you deserve more than just to survive- you want to heal and thrive. At Woods Wellness and Counseling, LLC, Laura DeAnna Woods has 21 years as a Social Worker. With a heart for helping others and a passion for mental wellness, I founded Woods Wellness and Counseling to create a safe, supportive space for healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience in the field and special training in EMDR, my compassionate approach and ability to meet clients exactly where they are. RWith a heart for helping others and a passion for mental wellness,
You’ve tried to cope on your own, but deep down you know you deserve more than just to survive- you want to heal and thrive. At Woods Wellness and Counseling, LLC, Laura DeAnna Woods has 21 years as a Social Worker. With a heart for helping others and a passion for mental wellness, I founded Woods Wellness and Counseling to create a safe, supportive space for healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience in the field and special training in EMDR, my compassionate approach and ability to meet clients exactly where they are. RWith a heart for helping others and a passion for mental wellness,
(662) 442-2198 View (662) 442-2198
Photo of Angela Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Angela Miller, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Central Mississippi. With over 13 years of experience in the mental health field, I have had the privilege of working with both adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating depression, work-related stress, grief, and anxiety. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find ways to improve their emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, empathetic, and collaborative. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and supported.
My name is Angela Miller, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Central Mississippi. With over 13 years of experience in the mental health field, I have had the privilege of working with both adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating depression, work-related stress, grief, and anxiety. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find ways to improve their emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, empathetic, and collaborative. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and supported.
(662) 547-3956 View (662) 547-3956
Photo of Corey Miletello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Corey Miletello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Grenada, MS 38901
With over 11 years of experience as a therapist, I prioritize building trust and rapport as the foundation of the therapeutic relationship. My approach centers on collaboration—working alongside clients to identify and achieve their personal goals. I draw from client-centered, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs.
With over 11 years of experience as a therapist, I prioritize building trust and rapport as the foundation of the therapeutic relationship. My approach centers on collaboration—working alongside clients to identify and achieve their personal goals. I draw from client-centered, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs.
(662) 430-3493 View (662) 430-3493
Photo of Angela D Miller - Evolution Clinical Counseling and Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Evolution Clinical Counseling and Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Grenada, MS 38901
Are you feeling depressed, worried, fearful, stressed, or stuck and unsure where to begin? You may be experiencing constant worry, racing thoughts, poor sleep, irritability, impulsive reactions, or difficulty coping with loss or mourning. I provide therapy for preteens through older adults, supporting depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and life stressors. Services are available in person and virtually in Mississippi, with online therapy in Indiana, Rhode Island, and Iowa. Change is possible, with the right support, we can build coping and emotional regulation skills to help you feel more balanced and in control of your life.
Are you feeling depressed, worried, fearful, stressed, or stuck and unsure where to begin? You may be experiencing constant worry, racing thoughts, poor sleep, irritability, impulsive reactions, or difficulty coping with loss or mourning. I provide therapy for preteens through older adults, supporting depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and life stressors. Services are available in person and virtually in Mississippi, with online therapy in Indiana, Rhode Island, and Iowa. Change is possible, with the right support, we can build coping and emotional regulation skills to help you feel more balanced and in control of your life.
(662) 734-1257 View (662) 734-1257
Photo of Destiny Bradley - Heart of Harmony, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Heart of Harmony, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I want to offer a safe place for individuals to feel empowered and validated while also strengthening their ability to cope with life's challenges. I understand people experience a variety of issues and seek help in understanding and managing these issues.
I want to offer a safe place for individuals to feel empowered and validated while also strengthening their ability to cope with life's challenges. I understand people experience a variety of issues and seek help in understanding and managing these issues.
(662) 642-1990 View (662) 642-1990
Photo of Katie Swinford Morrison, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Katie Swinford Morrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Currently on maternity leave! Return TBA. I am an accepting, collaborative, and caring professional counselor who embodies individuality and uniqueness in psychotherapy toward each individual client. My purpose of counseling is to furnish you with the opportunity of exploration of a variety of concerning factors in your life, and then begin to make a variety of changes in order to ultimately improve the life that you lead. In short, counseling with me will focus on YOU and on facets of YOUR experience that are concerning to YOU.
Currently on maternity leave! Return TBA. I am an accepting, collaborative, and caring professional counselor who embodies individuality and uniqueness in psychotherapy toward each individual client. My purpose of counseling is to furnish you with the opportunity of exploration of a variety of concerning factors in your life, and then begin to make a variety of changes in order to ultimately improve the life that you lead. In short, counseling with me will focus on YOU and on facets of YOUR experience that are concerning to YOU.
(662) 593-4178 View (662) 593-4178
Photo of Denease Bishop, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT
Denease Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome - I'm so glad you're here! If you're reading this, you're probably considering making an appointment with someone. Life is too precious to spend it burdened by fear, anxiety, pain, or depression. It's too short to surrender to anger or toxic relationships. It really is possible have peace and joy! I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) and reach out. I am mindful of the courage it takes to deal with hard issues head-on, and that's why creating a warm, accepting, nonjudgmental environment is a top priority.
Welcome - I'm so glad you're here! If you're reading this, you're probably considering making an appointment with someone. Life is too precious to spend it burdened by fear, anxiety, pain, or depression. It's too short to surrender to anger or toxic relationships. It really is possible have peace and joy! I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) and reach out. I am mindful of the courage it takes to deal with hard issues head-on, and that's why creating a warm, accepting, nonjudgmental environment is a top priority.
(662) 727-4122 View (662) 727-4122
Photo of Louise Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Louise Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I meet with any and all clients ages 15+. I work with various facets of mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, relational issues, body image, etc.) I am well-read and experienced working with issues in sexuality regarding identity/orientation. I also have experience with grief counseling and working with individuals encountering difficult life adjustments or transitions. Additionally, I work with women facing issues in pregnancy, fertility journeys, loss, postpartum, and difficulty adjusting to motherhood. If you are married or in close relationship with an alcoholic, I am also well-equipped to support you.
I meet with any and all clients ages 15+. I work with various facets of mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, relational issues, body image, etc.) I am well-read and experienced working with issues in sexuality regarding identity/orientation. I also have experience with grief counseling and working with individuals encountering difficult life adjustments or transitions. Additionally, I work with women facing issues in pregnancy, fertility journeys, loss, postpartum, and difficulty adjusting to motherhood. If you are married or in close relationship with an alcoholic, I am also well-equipped to support you.
(662) 967-3776 View (662) 967-3776
Photo of Lindsey Cosgrove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lindsey Cosgrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Congratulations on looking for ways to take care of yourself! Looking into therapy often feels scary and makes us feel vulnerable. It’s hard to admit that we don’t “have it all together.” I would love to discuss how I can help you work through your concerns or struggles. Please reach out so we can start working toward your goals! I use a combination of mindfulness techniques, education, and goal setting. My approach focuses on acceptance, but also changing behaviors and thoughts that are negatively impacting your life.
Congratulations on looking for ways to take care of yourself! Looking into therapy often feels scary and makes us feel vulnerable. It’s hard to admit that we don’t “have it all together.” I would love to discuss how I can help you work through your concerns or struggles. Please reach out so we can start working toward your goals! I use a combination of mindfulness techniques, education, and goal setting. My approach focuses on acceptance, but also changing behaviors and thoughts that are negatively impacting your life.
(662) 670-8417 View (662) 670-8417

Online Therapists

Photo of William Kenneth Sansing Jr., Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
William Kenneth Sansing Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
3 Endorsed
Starkville, MS 39759
It is one of life’s greatest honors to come along-side people who are seeking personal growth, adjusting to life changes, or working through life’s difficulties. My desire is to join others and create a trusting, safe, and understanding space to help them achieve their vision. I integrate a person-centered perspective with Cognitive Behavioral and Choice Theory in our work. Our work together may take many steps. Just stepping out to someone may be a first step in addressing life’s concerns. Another step may be moving into willingness then to action. Other steps may include self discovery, or celebrating or adjusting to life changes.
It is one of life’s greatest honors to come along-side people who are seeking personal growth, adjusting to life changes, or working through life’s difficulties. My desire is to join others and create a trusting, safe, and understanding space to help them achieve their vision. I integrate a person-centered perspective with Cognitive Behavioral and Choice Theory in our work. Our work together may take many steps. Just stepping out to someone may be a first step in addressing life’s concerns. Another step may be moving into willingness then to action. Other steps may include self discovery, or celebrating or adjusting to life changes.
(662) 747-4933 View (662) 747-4933
Photo of Lara Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Lara Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Hernando, MS 38632
You feel overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, or anxious, and need someone to talk to. Reaching out for help is difficult. I will work with you to improve yourself, and your relationships, in order to achieve your highest potential. Good mental health means you feel happier, calmer, a better version of yourself. We will develop coping skills and work through past traumas to put more joy in your present life.
You feel overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, or anxious, and need someone to talk to. Reaching out for help is difficult. I will work with you to improve yourself, and your relationships, in order to achieve your highest potential. Good mental health means you feel happier, calmer, a better version of yourself. We will develop coping skills and work through past traumas to put more joy in your present life.
(662) 584-6193 View (662) 584-6193
Photo of Sherry Bouldin - Mindful Solutions, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, EMDR
Mindful Solutions, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, EMDR
Greenwood, MS 38930
Mindful Solutions is committed to providing professional and confidential mental health services. Our practice provides individual, groups, marriage and family, and couples psychotherapy for adults and children. We have a diverse licensed team of therapists that specializes in various mental health and life challenges. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Visit our website www.msolutions1.com or contact us at 601-292-6260 for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.
Mindful Solutions is committed to providing professional and confidential mental health services. Our practice provides individual, groups, marriage and family, and couples psychotherapy for adults and children. We have a diverse licensed team of therapists that specializes in various mental health and life challenges. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Visit our website www.msolutions1.com or contact us at 601-292-6260 for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.
(662) 247-8482 View (662) 247-8482
Photo of Connie Blake Holland, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Connie Blake Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Ackerman, MS 39735
Seeds of Hope Counseling offers in-person or online therapy for all ages. Our desire is to come alongside you in your time of need and walk with you through it. We offer help from a biblical perspective if desired and work hard to build a trusting relationship that encourages change and growth in our clients. Do you need help with mental health issues, family problems, parent-teen relationships, or just need someone to talk to through a difficult time? If so, then we are here for you. Just call with any questions you may have. Insurance options available.
Seeds of Hope Counseling offers in-person or online therapy for all ages. Our desire is to come alongside you in your time of need and walk with you through it. We offer help from a biblical perspective if desired and work hard to build a trusting relationship that encourages change and growth in our clients. Do you need help with mental health issues, family problems, parent-teen relationships, or just need someone to talk to through a difficult time? If so, then we are here for you. Just call with any questions you may have. Insurance options available.
(662) 920-0979 View (662) 920-0979
Photo of Dr. Keith Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Dr. Keith Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Jackson, MS 39206
I offer various treatment modalities tailored to accommodate the needs of my clients. I offer assistance to those who may be struggling in silence, believing it to be strength. However, true strength lies in the readiness to be vulnerable. If you feel weighed down by past burdens, current challenges, and the overwhelming worries of tomorrow, I can offer relief and change. Many clients present with distorted thinking shaped by childhood experiences. These experiences often impact their thought patterns, emotional regulation, and relationships that can lead to forms of anxiety, depression, shame, insecurities, and low self-esteem.
I offer various treatment modalities tailored to accommodate the needs of my clients. I offer assistance to those who may be struggling in silence, believing it to be strength. However, true strength lies in the readiness to be vulnerable. If you feel weighed down by past burdens, current challenges, and the overwhelming worries of tomorrow, I can offer relief and change. Many clients present with distorted thinking shaped by childhood experiences. These experiences often impact their thought patterns, emotional regulation, and relationships that can lead to forms of anxiety, depression, shame, insecurities, and low self-esteem.
(601) 759-8574 View (601) 759-8574
Photo of Dr. Robert Cross, Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S
Dr. Robert Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S
Oxford, MS 38655
Many people find themselves in circumstances that they never imagined being in, feeling overwhelmed, lost, and hopeless, with nowhere to turn. I want you to know that you are not alone. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or you are returning to work through more of life's issues, I am here to walk with you, to guide and support you in finding the hope and healing that will empower you to live the life you deserve.
Many people find themselves in circumstances that they never imagined being in, feeling overwhelmed, lost, and hopeless, with nowhere to turn. I want you to know that you are not alone. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or you are returning to work through more of life's issues, I am here to walk with you, to guide and support you in finding the hope and healing that will empower you to live the life you deserve.
(662) 729-0474 View (662) 729-0474
Photo of Lynn Peterson, Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Lynn Peterson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Starkville, MS 39759
Are you depressed or anxious? Have you experienced trauma? Are you stuck in frustrating thought and behavior patterns that you would like to change but don't know how? I will help you understand and alter these patterns to create a healthier and more satisfying life. You may have experienced disheartening events such as an accident, a crisis, or emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or you may just feel bad and not know why. Whatever your challenges are, we can utilize them as a catalyst for the growth of new hope, strength, and resilience.
Are you depressed or anxious? Have you experienced trauma? Are you stuck in frustrating thought and behavior patterns that you would like to change but don't know how? I will help you understand and alter these patterns to create a healthier and more satisfying life. You may have experienced disheartening events such as an accident, a crisis, or emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or you may just feel bad and not know why. Whatever your challenges are, we can utilize them as a catalyst for the growth of new hope, strength, and resilience.
(662) 633-3592 View (662) 633-3592
Photo of Kate Crawford, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kate Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ridgeland, MS 39157
Does it feel like you've just been struggling through life lately? Maybe you often feel overwhelmed, worn out, or like you're running on empty. Life is full of ups and downs and sometimes those low points just seem to go on and on. Whether this is a new feeling for you or it's an old, unwanted friend, you don't have to face it alone. If feelings of shame or worry about being a burden have kept you from seeking help in the past, know that you are God's creation and are deserving of receiving help.
Does it feel like you've just been struggling through life lately? Maybe you often feel overwhelmed, worn out, or like you're running on empty. Life is full of ups and downs and sometimes those low points just seem to go on and on. Whether this is a new feeling for you or it's an old, unwanted friend, you don't have to face it alone. If feelings of shame or worry about being a burden have kept you from seeking help in the past, know that you are God's creation and are deserving of receiving help.
(601) 688-7914 View (601) 688-7914
Photo of Sherri Nozik, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP
Sherri Nozik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking for counseling but have a tight schedule, transportation complications, lack of options in your hometown, or just don’t want to have to go in-person? Online counseling might be right for you. I provide online counseling services, using a video platform, through Monarch Counseling and Wellness in Starkville, MS.
Looking for counseling but have a tight schedule, transportation complications, lack of options in your hometown, or just don’t want to have to go in-person? Online counseling might be right for you. I provide online counseling services, using a video platform, through Monarch Counseling and Wellness in Starkville, MS.
(662) 883-5863 View (662) 883-5863
Photo of Brenda Drake, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brenda Drake
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jackson, MS 39216
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Mississippi with 11 years of experience working as a clinical therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger issues, DMDD, Conduct Disorder, LGBTQI and ADHD. I also have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or physical or emotional abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Mississippi with 11 years of experience working as a clinical therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger issues, DMDD, Conduct Disorder, LGBTQI and ADHD. I also have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or physical or emotional abuse.
(662) 273-1849 View (662) 273-1849

See more therapy options for Grenada County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Grenada County, MS

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Grenada County, MS who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% Grief
90% Self Esteem
80% Family Conflict
80% Marriage Counseling
70% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
60% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Grenada County, MS see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Grenada County?

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.