Therapists in Kings Mountain, NC

Photo of Alisha Hall, Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Alisha Hall
Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
1 Endorsed
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Finding freedom from addiction and life’s challenges is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, or mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions or trauma, you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where we can uncover underlying issues, strengthen healthier coping skills, and create a personalized path toward recovery, healing, and lasting change. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. Together, we’ll identify your goals, strengthen resilience, and work toward improved emotional well-being.
Finding freedom from addiction and life’s challenges is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, or mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions or trauma, you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where we can uncover underlying issues, strengthen healthier coping skills, and create a personalized path toward recovery, healing, and lasting change. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. Together, we’ll identify your goals, strengthen resilience, and work toward improved emotional well-being.
(704) 237-6632 View (704) 237-6632
Photo of Simone McIntyre - Speak Your Peace Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, NCC, QS, LCMHC, LCAS
Speak Your Peace Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, NCC, QS, LCMHC, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Speak Your Peace Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting PLLC, it’s a safe space for us! I’m Dr. Simone McIntyre and I’m a 2022 graduate from Capella University where my dissertation focused on Licensed Professional Counselors experiences receiving referrals from African American Pastor’s. This topic is so close to my heart because I was raised that Black people don’t do therapy. Additionally… I’m a preacher’s kid and a minister and understand the power in faith and psychology.   Although Speak Your Peace Counseling was founded in 2024, I have worked in the field in various capacities since 2002.
Welcome to Speak Your Peace Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting PLLC, it’s a safe space for us! I’m Dr. Simone McIntyre and I’m a 2022 graduate from Capella University where my dissertation focused on Licensed Professional Counselors experiences receiving referrals from African American Pastor’s. This topic is so close to my heart because I was raised that Black people don’t do therapy. Additionally… I’m a preacher’s kid and a minister and understand the power in faith and psychology.   Although Speak Your Peace Counseling was founded in 2024, I have worked in the field in various capacities since 2002.
(704) 459-5621 View (704) 459-5621
Photo of Maria Smalls, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Maria Smalls
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Are you located in the Cleveland County area of North Carolina or any nearby counties and struggling with life circumstances? I’m here to provide that safe place and help sort out any concerns that are consuming your time and energy. I love working with children starting at (8yo) to adults. Contact me to schedule an appointment.
Are you located in the Cleveland County area of North Carolina or any nearby counties and struggling with life circumstances? I’m here to provide that safe place and help sort out any concerns that are consuming your time and energy. I love working with children starting at (8yo) to adults. Contact me to schedule an appointment.
(980) 746-3256 View (980) 746-3256
Photo of Glenda Vinson-Nnaji, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LPC
Glenda Vinson-Nnaji
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Trauma Specialist (EMDR Therapy and EMDR Intensive Therapy) Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or weighed down by past experiences? You're not alone and don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in helping individuals work through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life’s complex challenges using evidence-based tools like EMDR, CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I aim to create a safe, affirming space where healing can begin and real change can happen. With my years of experience and expertise, I get Results.
Trauma Specialist (EMDR Therapy and EMDR Intensive Therapy) Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or weighed down by past experiences? You're not alone and don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in helping individuals work through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life’s complex challenges using evidence-based tools like EMDR, CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I aim to create a safe, affirming space where healing can begin and real change can happen. With my years of experience and expertise, I get Results.
(704) 769-2607 View (704) 769-2607
Photo of Jennifer Reed, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCQS, NCC
Jennifer Reed
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCQS, NCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
The events that happen are not intended to be permanent, but instead are part of our journey. It is our story being written and we have the ability to choose the next chapter. The path of life can have difficult times, often with unexpected twists and turns. When this occurs, it can be beneficial to have someone walk with you through the challenging times. My clients are motivated to write their own story, to have someone support them but to work towards empowerment, self-confidence, internal peace, and ultimate healing. My clients know their past does not define them but instead empower them to be the best they can be!
The events that happen are not intended to be permanent, but instead are part of our journey. It is our story being written and we have the ability to choose the next chapter. The path of life can have difficult times, often with unexpected twists and turns. When this occurs, it can be beneficial to have someone walk with you through the challenging times. My clients are motivated to write their own story, to have someone support them but to work towards empowerment, self-confidence, internal peace, and ultimate healing. My clients know their past does not define them but instead empower them to be the best they can be!
(980) 389-8282 View (980) 389-8282
Photo of Alyssa Gardner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC
Alyssa Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
We offer telehealth sessions (video and audio) to help with processing during this difficult time. I work with mainly with young adults and adults. I have extensive knowledge and training working with clients who suffer from symptoms of anxiety, depression, life transitions and stress. I am primarily Cognitive Behavioral and utilize the integration of healthy coping skills.
We offer telehealth sessions (video and audio) to help with processing during this difficult time. I work with mainly with young adults and adults. I have extensive knowledge and training working with clients who suffer from symptoms of anxiety, depression, life transitions and stress. I am primarily Cognitive Behavioral and utilize the integration of healthy coping skills.
(704) 741-7084 View (704) 741-7084
Photo of LaTonja Pickett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
LaTonja Pickett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you ever thought to yourself, “something has to change?” - I know I have! My name is LaTonja Pickett, and I help clients discover why their inner child is getting in the way of their progress. I also help clients identify and overcome unhealthy patterns and stuck points that prevent them from living their healthiest lives. If you need guidance, support, or a listening ear, I'm here to provide a nonjudgemental and therapeutic atmosphere to aid you on your healing journey. It's time to get UNSTUCK and embark on a transformational journey to healing and self-discovery. I will also incorporate Christian concepts at your request.
Have you ever thought to yourself, “something has to change?” - I know I have! My name is LaTonja Pickett, and I help clients discover why their inner child is getting in the way of their progress. I also help clients identify and overcome unhealthy patterns and stuck points that prevent them from living their healthiest lives. If you need guidance, support, or a listening ear, I'm here to provide a nonjudgemental and therapeutic atmosphere to aid you on your healing journey. It's time to get UNSTUCK and embark on a transformational journey to healing and self-discovery. I will also incorporate Christian concepts at your request.
(704) 389-3516 View (704) 389-3516
Photo of Andrew M Woods, Counselor, LCMHC, MA, EdS, MDiv, NCC
Andrew M Woods
Counselor, LCMHC, MA, EdS, MDiv, NCC
Online Only
An important element I bring into counseling is a holistic understanding of you and your system. Through this, we discover dynamic ways to affect the issues in which you desire to see positive and enduring change. Furthermore, I practice a balanced approach. One side of counseling is more hands-on advising that involves practical and effective life skills. On the other side, counselors are neutral collaborators that facilitate self-exploration, depth, and healing. Through scholarly research and personal practice, I strive to bring both elements into my counseling relationships to achieve quick and lasting systemic change.
An important element I bring into counseling is a holistic understanding of you and your system. Through this, we discover dynamic ways to affect the issues in which you desire to see positive and enduring change. Furthermore, I practice a balanced approach. One side of counseling is more hands-on advising that involves practical and effective life skills. On the other side, counselors are neutral collaborators that facilitate self-exploration, depth, and healing. Through scholarly research and personal practice, I strive to bring both elements into my counseling relationships to achieve quick and lasting systemic change.
(919) 404-7975 View (919) 404-7975
Photo of Jim Snyder, Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC, LCMHCS, CSAT-C
Jim Snyder
Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC, LCMHCS, CSAT-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy helping men, women, their marriages, and their families. While I specialize in individual and marriages, I do provide counseling to all who pass through our doors. Sometimes women need a male's perspective on things, while kids may need an outside adult figure to get a different perspective or role model. I also specialize in helping men overcome masculine passivity, pornography addiction and sexual integrity.
I enjoy helping men, women, their marriages, and their families. While I specialize in individual and marriages, I do provide counseling to all who pass through our doors. Sometimes women need a male's perspective on things, while kids may need an outside adult figure to get a different perspective or role model. I also specialize in helping men overcome masculine passivity, pornography addiction and sexual integrity.
(704) 918-1352 View (704) 918-1352
Photo of Adrian B. Thornburg, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, NCC, RPTS, LCMHCS
Adrian B. Thornburg
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, NCC, RPTS, LCMHCS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life changing events bring emotional struggles such as grief, loss and other challenges. Adults may find themselves questioning and asking "Who am I now?" and "Where do I go from here?". Children, preteens and teens may find themselves navigating through new emotions and experiences as they grow and change. The need to explore and understand these new landscapes is critical to making positive and sometimes difficult decisions regarding self expression and life choices. Overall goals often included finding relief of inner conflict, developing confidence and experiencing growth.
Life changing events bring emotional struggles such as grief, loss and other challenges. Adults may find themselves questioning and asking "Who am I now?" and "Where do I go from here?". Children, preteens and teens may find themselves navigating through new emotions and experiences as they grow and change. The need to explore and understand these new landscapes is critical to making positive and sometimes difficult decisions regarding self expression and life choices. Overall goals often included finding relief of inner conflict, developing confidence and experiencing growth.
(704) 741-9240 View (704) 741-9240
Photo of Wes Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Wes Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Christian Counselor and recognize that people come to counseling for a variety of reasons including personal problems, relationship struggles, spiritual issues, and addictions. I want to hear your story and walk with you towards healing and hope. An important part of this process is developing a relationship of trust and safety. I am committed to providing professional care and counsel that is marked by compassion and is free from judgment.
I am a Christian Counselor and recognize that people come to counseling for a variety of reasons including personal problems, relationship struggles, spiritual issues, and addictions. I want to hear your story and walk with you towards healing and hope. An important part of this process is developing a relationship of trust and safety. I am committed to providing professional care and counsel that is marked by compassion and is free from judgment.
(704) 994-8388 View (704) 994-8388
Photo of Yolanda Hall-Asbell - LDH Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
LDH Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Serves Area
I look forward to assisting you with developing the skills to live a more abundant life while implementing the tools that you already have! Life can be hard at times and with the right coping skills, life can be more manageable to those experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health issues. Working with those who have experienced relationship issues, such as infidelity, abuse (domestic, verbal and/ or physical) can learn how to become a survivor instead of a victim. I know that building a healthy therapeutic relationship is the first step in the therapy process in a non-judgmental environment.
I look forward to assisting you with developing the skills to live a more abundant life while implementing the tools that you already have! Life can be hard at times and with the right coping skills, life can be more manageable to those experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health issues. Working with those who have experienced relationship issues, such as infidelity, abuse (domestic, verbal and/ or physical) can learn how to become a survivor instead of a victim. I know that building a healthy therapeutic relationship is the first step in the therapy process in a non-judgmental environment.
(980) 465-2533 View (980) 465-2533
Photo of Taylor L Banner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Taylor L Banner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support, guidance, and understanding. I am especially passionate about working with individuals who are committed to their personal growth and well-being.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support, guidance, and understanding. I am especially passionate about working with individuals who are committed to their personal growth and well-being.
(980) 577-2623 View (980) 577-2623
Photo of Romelle Blanton, Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A
Romelle Blanton
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a counselor, I love collaborating with clients to find out what their goals are and help set a course to achieve them. Whatever the presenting problem, it is my privilege to work with you to explore what solutions we can find together. We can tackle specific problems that you encounter in your relationships, workday, or social settings. We can also seek to understand the root of issues that seem to interfere in these same areas. You will be at the wheel while I help you navigate the road to improved mental health. We can start right away.
As a counselor, I love collaborating with clients to find out what their goals are and help set a course to achieve them. Whatever the presenting problem, it is my privilege to work with you to explore what solutions we can find together. We can tackle specific problems that you encounter in your relationships, workday, or social settings. We can also seek to understand the root of issues that seem to interfere in these same areas. You will be at the wheel while I help you navigate the road to improved mental health. We can start right away.
(980) 983-0311 View (980) 983-0311
Photo of Frances Waters, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Frances Waters
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Serves Area
Sometimes we experience unexpected challenges as we navigate our lives. Each of us has our own unique set of needs and goals for therapy. My goal as a therapist is to offer a safe place where my clients can feel comfortable working through difficult times; a judgement free zone that leaves them feeling valued and heard. My passion is working with adults and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, personal growth and family issues.
Sometimes we experience unexpected challenges as we navigate our lives. Each of us has our own unique set of needs and goals for therapy. My goal as a therapist is to offer a safe place where my clients can feel comfortable working through difficult times; a judgement free zone that leaves them feeling valued and heard. My passion is working with adults and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, personal growth and family issues.
(704) 703-2858 View (704) 703-2858
Photo of Jennifer Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EDS, LCMHCS, NCC, RPT
Jennifer Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EDS, LCMHCS, NCC, RPT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. I specialize in play therapy and solution focused therapy. I look forward to helping you or your child work through the every day struggles and sometimes overwhelming struggles of everyday life. I approach counseling from a holistic perspective and feel the child will benefit more from counseling if the family unit is healthy. This is why I invite the family to be a part of therapy and work to make the family a healthy place for the child/teen to grow and mature.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. I specialize in play therapy and solution focused therapy. I look forward to helping you or your child work through the every day struggles and sometimes overwhelming struggles of everyday life. I approach counseling from a holistic perspective and feel the child will benefit more from counseling if the family unit is healthy. This is why I invite the family to be a part of therapy and work to make the family a healthy place for the child/teen to grow and mature.
(980) 430-6897 View (980) 430-6897
Photo of Elie Challita, Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LPCA, LCAS-A, NCC
Elie Challita
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LPCA, LCAS-A, NCC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to stop by and visit my page. Whether you are familiar with therapy or are beginning your journey for the very first time, taking these initial steps can no doubt be overwhelming. This is why my primary focus in therapy is to ensure that you feel comfortable, accepted, supported, and truly heard. Understanding that therapy is a highly individualized experience, I strive to customize my approach to align with your specific goals, needs, and preferences.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to stop by and visit my page. Whether you are familiar with therapy or are beginning your journey for the very first time, taking these initial steps can no doubt be overwhelming. This is why my primary focus in therapy is to ensure that you feel comfortable, accepted, supported, and truly heard. Understanding that therapy is a highly individualized experience, I strive to customize my approach to align with your specific goals, needs, and preferences.
(704) 859-5641 View (704) 859-5641
Photo of Anna P Eaton, Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC-A
Anna P Eaton
Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC-A
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
It can be daunting to face major life changes such as death, health issues, divorce, retirement, relationship issues, aging, and feeling stuck in life. Successful counseling takes courage and commitment. Congratulations on taking the first step. We will start by you sharing your story of what is distressing you and what you want to change. Then, we will collaborate and develop a plan to address your objectives that you believe will work for you. I will guide you through the process to help you believe in your personal strengths, heal, and learn new behaviors that bring positive outcomes.
It can be daunting to face major life changes such as death, health issues, divorce, retirement, relationship issues, aging, and feeling stuck in life. Successful counseling takes courage and commitment. Congratulations on taking the first step. We will start by you sharing your story of what is distressing you and what you want to change. Then, we will collaborate and develop a plan to address your objectives that you believe will work for you. I will guide you through the process to help you believe in your personal strengths, heal, and learn new behaviors that bring positive outcomes.
(704) 870-3783 View (704) 870-3783

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Paryz, Counselor, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC
Nicole Paryz
Counselor, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC
Online Only
As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals find more effective ways to make meaningful changes in their lives. I believe in a collaborative approach to identify how your thoughts, feelings and experiences are impacting your behavior, mood, self-esteem and interpersonal relationships. I strive to maintain a supportive and nonjudgemental environment as we navigate the issues that you bring to sessions.
As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals find more effective ways to make meaningful changes in their lives. I believe in a collaborative approach to identify how your thoughts, feelings and experiences are impacting your behavior, mood, self-esteem and interpersonal relationships. I strive to maintain a supportive and nonjudgemental environment as we navigate the issues that you bring to sessions.
(312) 509-4644 View (312) 509-4644
Photo of Remi Ewharekuko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Remi Ewharekuko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking for clarity, struggling with substance use, fighting with depression and anxiety, or any other mental health issues. I can assist. I help my clients in navigating the stressors of their individual lives. I identify the different values and ideologies of all my clients. Together we map a situation and figure out a solution that is in line with their personal desires so they are able to reach goals set. The three theories I use most in my practice are humanistic/self-determination, behaviorism and psychodynamic theory. With humanistic/self-determination theory I can ensure I help my clients achieve their highest potential.
Looking for clarity, struggling with substance use, fighting with depression and anxiety, or any other mental health issues. I can assist. I help my clients in navigating the stressors of their individual lives. I identify the different values and ideologies of all my clients. Together we map a situation and figure out a solution that is in line with their personal desires so they are able to reach goals set. The three theories I use most in my practice are humanistic/self-determination, behaviorism and psychodynamic theory. With humanistic/self-determination theory I can ensure I help my clients achieve their highest potential.
(704) 610-6068 View (704) 610-6068

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kings Mountain, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Kings Mountain, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
89% Relationship Issues
83% Coping Skills
83% Self Esteem
72% Grief
72% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Kings Mountain, NC see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Kings Mountain?

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.