Therapists in South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
SpaTherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Not accepting new clients
Hello, my name is Jamila Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC. I am an independently licensed clinical therapist with SpaTherapy. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I provide comprehensive counseling, diagnosis and treatment for mood and personality disorders, anxiety and trauma, substance abuse and life coaching, career counseling and life skills for adults. I also work with individuals in need of parenting, domestic violence, anger management, and self-esteem counseling.
Hello, my name is Jamila Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC. I am an independently licensed clinical therapist with SpaTherapy. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I provide comprehensive counseling, diagnosis and treatment for mood and personality disorders, anxiety and trauma, substance abuse and life coaching, career counseling and life skills for adults. I also work with individuals in need of parenting, domestic violence, anger management, and self-esteem counseling.
Centered Soul Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85041 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Weekday availability. Spanish speaking available. I am a strong believer that one must step outside of his/her own comfort zone to experience any significant change. I focus on supporting clients to test boundaries and find the capacity to embrace personal growth. I am accepting appointments for couples and individual clients age 18 and up. Disponsibilidad semanal. Se habla español (citas se hacen directamente a mi por telefono). Yo apoyo a los clientes para se encuentren la capacidad de abrazar el crecimiento personal. Aceptando parejas y clientes de 18 años en adelante.
Accepting new clients. Weekday availability. Spanish speaking available. I am a strong believer that one must step outside of his/her own comfort zone to experience any significant change. I focus on supporting clients to test boundaries and find the capacity to embrace personal growth. I am accepting appointments for couples and individual clients age 18 and up. Disponsibilidad semanal. Se habla español (citas se hacen directamente a mi por telefono). Yo apoyo a los clientes para se encuentren la capacidad de abrazar el crecimiento personal. Aceptando parejas y clientes de 18 años en adelante.
Linda M. Cantley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LIAC, MAC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85040 (Online Only)
I have have accumulated over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on their mental, physical, and emotional well-being to facilitate the healing and recovery journey. With a diverse background in addressing issues such as SUD, PTSD, Conflict Resolution, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, GAD, MDD, Crisis, Trauma, and Grief/Loss, I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving a sound meaningful and fulfilling life.
I have have accumulated over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on their mental, physical, and emotional well-being to facilitate the healing and recovery journey. With a diverse background in addressing issues such as SUD, PTSD, Conflict Resolution, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, GAD, MDD, Crisis, Trauma, and Grief/Loss, I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving a sound meaningful and fulfilling life.
Accretion Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85042 (Online Only)
Clinical areas of interests include but are not limited to post traumatic growth, social determinants, anxiety, child welfare, family dynamics, depression, chemical addiction, grief, performance psychology, and transgenerational oppression. I work with people from all walks of life to promote healing from deep intense emotional wounds. I maintain a sense of urgency for the goal of getting each Client grounded/back on their feet and engaged in the cherishable aspects of life. My ideal Client is one aiming to relieve physical, emotional, and mental stress. I use a holistic egalitarian client centered approach to enhance therapy.
Clinical areas of interests include but are not limited to post traumatic growth, social determinants, anxiety, child welfare, family dynamics, depression, chemical addiction, grief, performance psychology, and transgenerational oppression. I work with people from all walks of life to promote healing from deep intense emotional wounds. I maintain a sense of urgency for the goal of getting each Client grounded/back on their feet and engaged in the cherishable aspects of life. My ideal Client is one aiming to relieve physical, emotional, and mental stress. I use a holistic egalitarian client centered approach to enhance therapy.
Dr. Meka Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85041
I believe we all have innate strengths and abilities which allow us to navigate life's inevitable events. It is my passion and mission to walk along side of you as we discover and enhance your strengths and move past depression, low self-worth, trauma, anxiety, addiction or a combination of weights holding you back. It is my role to provide you with a safe space to share your story and work with you to find the connections between your past, present and your desires for your future. Please note: I am licensed in Arizona and Texas.
I believe we all have innate strengths and abilities which allow us to navigate life's inevitable events. It is my passion and mission to walk along side of you as we discover and enhance your strengths and move past depression, low self-worth, trauma, anxiety, addiction or a combination of weights holding you back. It is my role to provide you with a safe space to share your story and work with you to find the connections between your past, present and your desires for your future. Please note: I am licensed in Arizona and Texas.
Michiko Pepple
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85041
Changes in life are something we can all count on. You can live as a victim or embrace it and thrive. I am here to support your transformation as I believe "Happiness is not to be pursued, but to be created." Whether you are in the midst of unexpected change or crave a transformation but are not sure where to begin, I am here to support you. I will: * Guide and encourage you * Hold you accountable * Walk alongside you throughout your transformation journey. The best way to predict the future is to create it. Begin your journey now. https://phxcllc.clientsecure.me
Changes in life are something we can all count on. You can live as a victim or embrace it and thrive. I am here to support your transformation as I believe "Happiness is not to be pursued, but to be created." Whether you are in the midst of unexpected change or crave a transformation but are not sure where to begin, I am here to support you. I will: * Guide and encourage you * Hold you accountable * Walk alongside you throughout your transformation journey. The best way to predict the future is to create it. Begin your journey now. https://phxcllc.clientsecure.me
Beth Onufrak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85041 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do your young child's challenges seem beyond typical? Do emotional & behavioral problems dominate the day? Has time-out frayed your family? If you want cool-head tools for yourself to improve your child's coping, you'll find this blend in my online courses. They're based on my unique ChildSightTools model. This blend of tools reduces behavior problems, grows child coping skills, repairs family bonds and restores parenting joy. An entertaining, supportive video course can help you create "better days" for your young child, at home, school or daycare.
Do your young child's challenges seem beyond typical? Do emotional & behavioral problems dominate the day? Has time-out frayed your family? If you want cool-head tools for yourself to improve your child's coping, you'll find this blend in my online courses. They're based on my unique ChildSightTools model. This blend of tools reduces behavior problems, grows child coping skills, repairs family bonds and restores parenting joy. An entertaining, supportive video course can help you create "better days" for your young child, at home, school or daycare.
AZ Speech & Psychological Institute
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85044
>>>>> FREE 30 MINUTE CONSULTATION <<<<< We are a place for individuals to shine - where learning becomes inspirational and succeeding allows for maximum potential. We specialize in educational, psychological, and speech evaluations with experience in special needs and a personalized approach in assessments and recommendations. We have multiple locations across Arizona helping family meet their needs.
>>>>> FREE 30 MINUTE CONSULTATION <<<<< We are a place for individuals to shine - where learning becomes inspirational and succeeding allows for maximum potential. We specialize in educational, psychological, and speech evaluations with experience in special needs and a personalized approach in assessments and recommendations. We have multiple locations across Arizona helping family meet their needs.
I enjoy working with both individuals and couples to address a range of challenges. Many of my clients seek help with managing depression, anxiety, irritability, anger, and ADHD symptoms while others come to me with relational issues. If you're dealing with relationship issues, remember that experiencing highs and lows is normal. However, if the negative exchanges become too frequent or intense, it’s natural to feel hopeless or overwhelmed.
I enjoy working with both individuals and couples to address a range of challenges. Many of my clients seek help with managing depression, anxiety, irritability, anger, and ADHD symptoms while others come to me with relational issues. If you're dealing with relationship issues, remember that experiencing highs and lows is normal. However, if the negative exchanges become too frequent or intense, it’s natural to feel hopeless or overwhelmed.
Hello! I firmly believe that each person's journey is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to suit your individual needs. Drawing from a diverse toolkit of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, EMDR, TF-ACT, SFBT, and Person-centered therapy, I aim to create a safe and supportive space for your growth and self-discovery.
Hello! I firmly believe that each person's journey is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to suit your individual needs. Drawing from a diverse toolkit of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, EMDR, TF-ACT, SFBT, and Person-centered therapy, I aim to create a safe and supportive space for your growth and self-discovery.
Full Circle Behavioral Health Consulting LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85041 (Online Only)
Noel Frazier is a Licensed Master Level Social Worker with 15 years of behavioral health experience working with youth, families, adults and groups. Noel is well versed in evidenced based therapeutic interventions. Therapeutic approaches include, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral modification and cognitive processing therapy. Noel can assist clients who are seeking to develop healthy and alternative coping skills to manage day to day stressors associated with increased anxiety or depression. Assist clients with creating balance within their life.
Noel Frazier is a Licensed Master Level Social Worker with 15 years of behavioral health experience working with youth, families, adults and groups. Noel is well versed in evidenced based therapeutic interventions. Therapeutic approaches include, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral modification and cognitive processing therapy. Noel can assist clients who are seeking to develop healthy and alternative coping skills to manage day to day stressors associated with increased anxiety or depression. Assist clients with creating balance within their life.
15 Second Videos
Accretion Behavioral Health
Maeve McCaffrey
Lorain Moorehead
Relationship Specialists
Healing In Truth Therapy
Sydney Van Horn
Sophie Hans
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Phoenix
Raquel Daniels
Rebecca Austin
Diana Cofsky
Lauren C. Taveras
Karen Abato
Resilient Reflections LLC Dominecaa White MS LPC
Lizzette Peregrina
Laura Tyndall
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Tempe
Nathanael Smith
Trouble in your relationship or marriage? Issues in communication or finances? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then it might be beneficial to speak with a professional. Most of us have experienced this at some point in our relationships. Counseling can be beneficial by providing a safe space to share without judgment while also having a mediator to assist with misunderstandings. As your counselor, my role is not to tell you what to do as only you know what’s best for you, but instead assist you identifying what is needed to help you start living the life you want to live. I look forward to hearing from you!
Trouble in your relationship or marriage? Issues in communication or finances? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then it might be beneficial to speak with a professional. Most of us have experienced this at some point in our relationships. Counseling can be beneficial by providing a safe space to share without judgment while also having a mediator to assist with misunderstandings. As your counselor, my role is not to tell you what to do as only you know what’s best for you, but instead assist you identifying what is needed to help you start living the life you want to live. I look forward to hearing from you!
Maeve McCaffrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85042
My passion is to help clients help themselves. I assist individuals (young adults & working professionals) who need help with managing their life changes, anxiety, depression, coping skills, creating boundaries, family dynamics and more. Life is not meant to be walked through alone. Together we will create healthy, achievable goals that allow you to grow towards being the best version of yourself. Whatever your goals might be, we can come up with steps to achieve them. This might look like learning anxiety reduction techniques, setting boundaries with family members, or even helping you get to a "new normal" after a big life event.
My passion is to help clients help themselves. I assist individuals (young adults & working professionals) who need help with managing their life changes, anxiety, depression, coping skills, creating boundaries, family dynamics and more. Life is not meant to be walked through alone. Together we will create healthy, achievable goals that allow you to grow towards being the best version of yourself. Whatever your goals might be, we can come up with steps to achieve them. This might look like learning anxiety reduction techniques, setting boundaries with family members, or even helping you get to a "new normal" after a big life event.
Alexandra Trusty
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85041
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
Sarah Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NPT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Welcome! I’m Sarah Simpson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Clinical Sexology doctoral student, dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through their unique journeys toward healing and connection. With a compassionate and holistic approach, I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your feelings, understand your experiences, and develop practical tools for growth. Therapeutic Approach: At Embodied Alignment Therapy, I integrate trauma-informed care with evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs. My focus is on fostering open communication, and building trust.
Welcome! I’m Sarah Simpson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Clinical Sexology doctoral student, dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through their unique journeys toward healing and connection. With a compassionate and holistic approach, I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your feelings, understand your experiences, and develop practical tools for growth. Therapeutic Approach: At Embodied Alignment Therapy, I integrate trauma-informed care with evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs. My focus is on fostering open communication, and building trust.
Lorain Moorehead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85040
What if you could finally break free from those old patterns? You've probably tried to "cope" before, but deep down, you know there's more to it. That nagging feeling of something being "off" just won't go away. You're ready for real change. To tackle your anxiety, relationship struggles, or postpartum overwhelm at the source. Imagine a therapy that doesn't just scratch the surface. It's time to: quiet that inner critic, feel genuinely connected in your relationships, discover your sense of true calm and confidence. You've been stuck long enough. Let's work together to unlock the change you've been searching for.
What if you could finally break free from those old patterns? You've probably tried to "cope" before, but deep down, you know there's more to it. That nagging feeling of something being "off" just won't go away. You're ready for real change. To tackle your anxiety, relationship struggles, or postpartum overwhelm at the source. Imagine a therapy that doesn't just scratch the surface. It's time to: quiet that inner critic, feel genuinely connected in your relationships, discover your sense of true calm and confidence. You've been stuck long enough. Let's work together to unlock the change you've been searching for.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box” for many years. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box” for many years. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another
Hello, I’m Brittany, the owner of Healing in Truth Therapy. I believe that our life experiences don’t define us—they equip us to become stronger, more resilient versions of ourselves. Every challenge offers a lesson and an opportunity for growth. At Healing in Truth, we embrace both the past and present as we work together toward healing from the inside out. We support individuals dealing with past traumas, relationship struggles, anxiety, and people-pleasing behaviors. Our focus is on letting go of resentment, building self-esteem, and setting meaningful goals.
Hello, I’m Brittany, the owner of Healing in Truth Therapy. I believe that our life experiences don’t define us—they equip us to become stronger, more resilient versions of ourselves. Every challenge offers a lesson and an opportunity for growth. At Healing in Truth, we embrace both the past and present as we work together toward healing from the inside out. We support individuals dealing with past traumas, relationship struggles, anxiety, and people-pleasing behaviors. Our focus is on letting go of resentment, building self-esteem, and setting meaningful goals.
Sydney Van Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85040
My name is Sydney Van Horn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Arizona. I have a Masters of Social Work degree from Arizona State University and Bachelors in Sociology. I have been practicing in the behavior health field for over 7 years. I firmly believe that mental health is health. Life is dynamic and with change often comes discomfort and uncertainty. But I believe amongst that blossoms authenticity and personal growth. I strive to help my clients find their footing, becoming the best version of themselves. We do that by breaking the fourth wall and deciding for ourselves what our story will be.
My name is Sydney Van Horn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Arizona. I have a Masters of Social Work degree from Arizona State University and Bachelors in Sociology. I have been practicing in the behavior health field for over 7 years. I firmly believe that mental health is health. Life is dynamic and with change often comes discomfort and uncertainty. But I believe amongst that blossoms authenticity and personal growth. I strive to help my clients find their footing, becoming the best version of themselves. We do that by breaking the fourth wall and deciding for ourselves what our story will be.
Michelle McDaniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT 500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85040
Choosing a therapist can be a challenging process. Your therapist should provide you with confidence that she can help you navigate whatever troubled waters you may encounter with compassion and competence. Whatever your current challenges, I am confident that together, we can find and work toward a solution. No matter your choice of therapist, I wish you the best of luck in this process and in resolving the challenges that you are facing.
Choosing a therapist can be a challenging process. Your therapist should provide you with confidence that she can help you navigate whatever troubled waters you may encounter with compassion and competence. Whatever your current challenges, I am confident that together, we can find and work toward a solution. No matter your choice of therapist, I wish you the best of luck in this process and in resolving the challenges that you are facing.
See more therapy options for South Mountain, Phoenix
Nearby Searches for South Mountain, Phoenix
- Ahwatukee
- Ahwatukee Foothills
- Alhambra
- Arcadia
- Biltmore
- Camelback East
- Central City
- Downtown
- Encanto
- Estrella
- Mountain Park Ranch
- Sun City Grand
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
70+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
76% | Stress |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Self Esteem |
63% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in South Mountain, Phoenix, AZ see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in South Mountain, Phoenix?
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
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.
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.
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.