Therapists in 03844

Photo of Alexander Thomas Risberg, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Alexander Thomas Risberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Hi, I’m Alex, and I’m excited that you are considering starting therapy with me! My approach is person-centered and evidence-based. I like to utilize research-tested tools and strategies to address normal, yet unhelpful thoughts and patterns that can leave clients feeling stuck, anxious, or unhappy.
Hi, I’m Alex, and I’m excited that you are considering starting therapy with me! My approach is person-centered and evidence-based. I like to utilize research-tested tools and strategies to address normal, yet unhelpful thoughts and patterns that can leave clients feeling stuck, anxious, or unhappy.
(603) 665-0260 x711 View (603) 665-0260 x711
Photo of Rebecca Bibeau, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Rebecca Bibeau
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
Quarter-life/ mid-life crisis vibes? Wondering what you actually want to do with your life? Whether you're chasing purpose, switching majors/career, or just feeling stuck—I’ve got you. I'm all about turning “What now?” into “Here’s how.” Life isn’t set in stone; you get to edit the script. Let’s take that messy big picture and break it into steps that make sense—for you.
Quarter-life/ mid-life crisis vibes? Wondering what you actually want to do with your life? Whether you're chasing purpose, switching majors/career, or just feeling stuck—I’ve got you. I'm all about turning “What now?” into “Here’s how.” Life isn’t set in stone; you get to edit the script. Let’s take that messy big picture and break it into steps that make sense—for you.
(603) 379-6412 View (603) 379-6412
Photo of Natalie Erikson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCMHC, NCSP
Natalie Erikson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCMHC, NCSP
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Hello, and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified School Psychologist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. My experience in a variety of different settings including private practice, schools, hospitals, outpatient programs, and residential treatment facilities allows me to have a multi-dimensional perspective in my work with clients.
Hello, and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified School Psychologist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. My experience in a variety of different settings including private practice, schools, hospitals, outpatient programs, and residential treatment facilities allows me to have a multi-dimensional perspective in my work with clients.
View
Photo of Nadine Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Nadine Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Nadine Thompson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 1991. She earned her Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Clinical Practice, from Smith College School of Social Work. She also has post-graduate certification in Addiction counseling, multicultural practice, DBT, and Couples and Family Therapy. Nadine is committed to helping people heal themselves by providing a safe space where they can explore their challenges, restore their mental health, and create the life that they want to live.
Nadine Thompson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 1991. She earned her Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Clinical Practice, from Smith College School of Social Work. She also has post-graduate certification in Addiction counseling, multicultural practice, DBT, and Couples and Family Therapy. Nadine is committed to helping people heal themselves by providing a safe space where they can explore their challenges, restore their mental health, and create the life that they want to live.
(888) 271-3912 View (888) 271-3912
Photo of Jim Michaels, Counselor, LCMHC
Jim Michaels
Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Jim Michaels is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Hampshire who has his Doctorate in Theology and has been practicing since 2011. Jim believes that every person should live their best possible lives, and at times this requires that someone walks with us to grow and flourish. Jim is trained in multiple evidence-based interventions to help others attain their goals. As a U. S. Marine, Jim understands the unique mindset that military veterans and their families face.
Jim Michaels is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Hampshire who has his Doctorate in Theology and has been practicing since 2011. Jim believes that every person should live their best possible lives, and at times this requires that someone walks with us to grow and flourish. Jim is trained in multiple evidence-based interventions to help others attain their goals. As a U. S. Marine, Jim understands the unique mindset that military veterans and their families face.
(603) 952-3098 View (603) 952-3098
Photo of Bethany Meichsner Barbaro, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Bethany Meichsner Barbaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Bethany values a strengths-based approach and believes that individuals often have an untapped ability to heal and take steps to improve the way they navigate through and handle life’s difficult situations. She strives toward being client-centered and feedback-oriented, as well as integrating multiple therapeutic approaches to provide services that fit each client’s specific needs. Bethany highly values the therapeutic alliance and strives to partner with clients to help them move in a direction that is positive and beneficial for them.
Bethany values a strengths-based approach and believes that individuals often have an untapped ability to heal and take steps to improve the way they navigate through and handle life’s difficult situations. She strives toward being client-centered and feedback-oriented, as well as integrating multiple therapeutic approaches to provide services that fit each client’s specific needs. Bethany highly values the therapeutic alliance and strives to partner with clients to help them move in a direction that is positive and beneficial for them.
(833) 238-7910 View (833) 238-7910
Photo of Brian Taracena, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Brian Taracena
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Brian Taracena PsyD, brings 20+ year of experience to his work as a Clinical Psychologist. He earned his doctoral degree from the University of Denver in 2001 with an emphasis in Behavioral Medicine. He completed both his internship and residency at Wasatch Mental Health in Provo, UT. He gained additional training through the University of Colorado Hospital, Denver Police Department, and Denver Public Schools. Dr. Taracena s experience spans a variety of settings including: inpatient medical hospitals, emergency departments, public schools and community mental health centers.
Brian Taracena PsyD, brings 20+ year of experience to his work as a Clinical Psychologist. He earned his doctoral degree from the University of Denver in 2001 with an emphasis in Behavioral Medicine. He completed both his internship and residency at Wasatch Mental Health in Provo, UT. He gained additional training through the University of Colorado Hospital, Denver Police Department, and Denver Public Schools. Dr. Taracena s experience spans a variety of settings including: inpatient medical hospitals, emergency departments, public schools and community mental health centers.
(855) 938-1007 View (855) 938-1007
Photo of Harmony Costopulos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Harmony Costopulos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Services Provided: This therapist is able to provide methods of treatment including CBT, Solution Focused therapy and crisis management. I take a client centered approach utilizing a therapy approach that suits the needs of the client. Specializations: Clinical areas of interest include grief/loss, anxiety, depression, adoption issues, body image, women’s issues, divorce, substance abuse, anger management, self esteem, time management, and mood disorders. Location of Practice Exeter Patient ages I Work :
Services Provided: This therapist is able to provide methods of treatment including CBT, Solution Focused therapy and crisis management. I take a client centered approach utilizing a therapy approach that suits the needs of the client. Specializations: Clinical areas of interest include grief/loss, anxiety, depression, adoption issues, body image, women’s issues, divorce, substance abuse, anger management, self esteem, time management, and mood disorders. Location of Practice Exeter Patient ages I Work :
(855) 637-4491 View (855) 637-4491
Photo of Colin Piekarski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Colin Piekarski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Colin Piekarski, MSW, helps individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, collaboration, and evidencebased care. Serving communities across New Hampshire, Colin provides therapy that is both supportive and resultsoriented, guiding clients toward greater emotional wellbeing and personal growth. He works with children, adolescents, teens, and adults, tailoring care to each client’s developmental stage and unique circumstances. Colin is especially passionate about supporting children and adolescents facing ADHD, behavioral challenges, and schoolrelated stress.
Colin Piekarski, MSW, helps individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, collaboration, and evidencebased care. Serving communities across New Hampshire, Colin provides therapy that is both supportive and resultsoriented, guiding clients toward greater emotional wellbeing and personal growth. He works with children, adolescents, teens, and adults, tailoring care to each client’s developmental stage and unique circumstances. Colin is especially passionate about supporting children and adolescents facing ADHD, behavioral challenges, and schoolrelated stress.
(888) 497-6394 View (888) 497-6394
Photo of Nadine Thompson - LifeStance Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
LifeStance Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 336-0344 View (844) 336-0344
Photo of Dr. Ina Kamenova, Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Dr. Ina Kamenova
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Online Only
Do you want to reclaim your life from worry and doubt? I combine a warm, person-centered approach with scientifically tested treatments. Through this work, clients report feeling unstuck, reconnecting with a sense of creativity and meaning, and feeling equipped to form lasting connections and face challenges.
Do you want to reclaim your life from worry and doubt? I combine a warm, person-centered approach with scientifically tested treatments. Through this work, clients report feeling unstuck, reconnecting with a sense of creativity and meaning, and feeling equipped to form lasting connections and face challenges.
View
Photo of Kimberly Sieper - Blue Lotus Wellness, Counselor, MS, MBA, LCMHC, MLADC
Blue Lotus Wellness
Counselor, MS, MBA, LCMHC, MLADC
3 Endorsed
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Several therapists in the practice have openings and have same holistic philosophy in their work utilizing Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Reiki, Energy work, Hypnosis, Trauma informed Yoga and Past Life Regression in my work with clients. Counseling can help sort through mental health struggles, and help you gain perspective so you can create a better future. I work with individuals experiencing PTSD, substance addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship problems, divorce, stress as well as many other issues.
Several therapists in the practice have openings and have same holistic philosophy in their work utilizing Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Reiki, Energy work, Hypnosis, Trauma informed Yoga and Past Life Regression in my work with clients. Counseling can help sort through mental health struggles, and help you gain perspective so you can create a better future. I work with individuals experiencing PTSD, substance addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship problems, divorce, stress as well as many other issues.
(603) 605-1741 View (603) 605-1741
Photo of Deborah Jordan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Deborah Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Deb Jordan, LICSW, is dedicated to helping patients across New Hampshire navigate life’s challenges with empathy and expertise. Through her work at LifeStance Health, Deb provides a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. Specializing in individual therapy, she uses her extensive experience to meet clients where they are, helping them move forward with clarity and resilience. Deb focuses on treating a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma, while also providing guidance through later life transitions and addressing women's issues.
Deb Jordan, LICSW, is dedicated to helping patients across New Hampshire navigate life’s challenges with empathy and expertise. Through her work at LifeStance Health, Deb provides a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. Specializing in individual therapy, she uses her extensive experience to meet clients where they are, helping them move forward with clarity and resilience. Deb focuses on treating a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma, while also providing guidance through later life transitions and addressing women's issues.
(888) 865-4916 View (888) 865-4916
Photo of William Fahey, Psychologist, PhD
William Fahey
Psychologist, PhD
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
General Psychology from Connecticut College and his B.A. in Psychology from American International College. Dr. Fahey completed his predoctoral internship in Clinical Psychology at Western Missouri Mental Health Center with major rotations in Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship in Pediatric Psychology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Fahey has extensive clinical experience providing psychotherapy services to adolescents, adults, couples and families.
General Psychology from Connecticut College and his B.A. in Psychology from American International College. Dr. Fahey completed his predoctoral internship in Clinical Psychology at Western Missouri Mental Health Center with major rotations in Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship in Pediatric Psychology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Fahey has extensive clinical experience providing psychotherapy services to adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(844) 551-7227 View (844) 551-7227
Photo of Kimberly Sieper - Blue Lotus Wellness LLC, Counselor, LCMHC, APRN, MLADC, PMHNP
Blue Lotus Wellness LLC
Counselor, LCMHC, APRN, MLADC, PMHNP
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Blue Lotus Wellness understands the difficulties that come with navigating mental health and finding a provider you can connect with. Our team of experienced counselors are here to support and guide you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. We work with individuals and couples experiencing a variety of mental health issues including but not limited to addictions, trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, chronic pain and more. We can provide Ketamine Therapy and medication management by one of our Nurse Practitioners as well as counseling support from any of our professional counselors.
Blue Lotus Wellness understands the difficulties that come with navigating mental health and finding a provider you can connect with. Our team of experienced counselors are here to support and guide you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. We work with individuals and couples experiencing a variety of mental health issues including but not limited to addictions, trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, chronic pain and more. We can provide Ketamine Therapy and medication management by one of our Nurse Practitioners as well as counseling support from any of our professional counselors.
(833) 658-8441 View (833) 658-8441
Photo of Valerie Ventura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Valerie Ventura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Valerie Ventura is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for 30+ years. She graduated from Boston University School of Social Work with a Master's Degree in Social Work. Valerie is an active listener who helps people develop and implement positive coping skills and strategies. Although Valerie sees all ages, she specializes primarily in adolescent and young adult clients. Her main areas of focus include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship and family issues. She also works with clients who have complex mental health and/or substance abuse issues.
Valerie Ventura is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for 30+ years. She graduated from Boston University School of Social Work with a Master's Degree in Social Work. Valerie is an active listener who helps people develop and implement positive coping skills and strategies. Although Valerie sees all ages, she specializes primarily in adolescent and young adult clients. Her main areas of focus include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship and family issues. She also works with clients who have complex mental health and/or substance abuse issues.
(855) 950-0356 View (855) 950-0356
Photo of Jared Mrvos, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Jared Mrvos
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Jared Mrvos (he/him) is a therapist at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting individuals across New Hampshire with their mental health challenges. He provides compassionate care for adolescents, adults, and older adults, helping them navigate a wide range of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and trauma. Jared’s therapeutic approach is centered on meeting each client’s unique needs through evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), ensuring a personalized experience for everyone he serves.
Jared Mrvos (he/him) is a therapist at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting individuals across New Hampshire with their mental health challenges. He provides compassionate care for adolescents, adults, and older adults, helping them navigate a wide range of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and trauma. Jared’s therapeutic approach is centered on meeting each client’s unique needs through evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), ensuring a personalized experience for everyone he serves.
(866) 601-1003 View (866) 601-1003
Photo of Timothy Runk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Timothy Runk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
He believes that the process of mental health counseling requires the right blend of compassion, mutual respect, humor, and willingness to step into new territory together. His goal is to help others break free of their limiting beliefs and start creating the lives they truly want for themselves. That may mean offering a fresh perspective, teaching a new concept or strategy, listening with an open mind, or helping sort through a range of confusing options. Tim helps people to heal from a variety of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction.
He believes that the process of mental health counseling requires the right blend of compassion, mutual respect, humor, and willingness to step into new territory together. His goal is to help others break free of their limiting beliefs and start creating the lives they truly want for themselves. That may mean offering a fresh perspective, teaching a new concept or strategy, listening with an open mind, or helping sort through a range of confusing options. Tim helps people to heal from a variety of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction.
(844) 986-0247 View (844) 986-0247
Photo of Alfred-John Diamonti, Psychologist, PsyD
Alfred-John Diamonti
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Dr. AJ Diamonti began his career as a classroom teacher and school administrator, before returning to school himself to train as a psychologist. He received a Master of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling and his doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology, both from Boston College, and completed his pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology at Tewksbury Hospital in Massachusetts. His education and experience have included working with children, adolescents, and adults within public and private school systems, college counseling centers, and inpatient hospital settings.
Dr. AJ Diamonti began his career as a classroom teacher and school administrator, before returning to school himself to train as a psychologist. He received a Master of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling and his doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology, both from Boston College, and completed his pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology at Tewksbury Hospital in Massachusetts. His education and experience have included working with children, adolescents, and adults within public and private school systems, college counseling centers, and inpatient hospital settings.
(888) 270-8529 View (888) 270-8529
Photo of Kyler Ronner-Bland, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC
Kyler Ronner-Bland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC
Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Kyler Ronner-Bland, MA, practices at LifeStance Health in New Hampshire, where she is dedicated to establishing a strong, trusting relationship with her clients. Kyler provides a nonjudgmental and validating environment, ensuring that clients feel safe and supported as they navigate their mental health journeys. She utilizes art and music therapy techniques to help individuals facing various challenges, including depression, grief and loss, relational issues, life transitions, family issues, panic disorder, and school-related issues such as school phobia and adjustment to changes.
Kyler Ronner-Bland, MA, practices at LifeStance Health in New Hampshire, where she is dedicated to establishing a strong, trusting relationship with her clients. Kyler provides a nonjudgmental and validating environment, ensuring that clients feel safe and supported as they navigate their mental health journeys. She utilizes art and music therapy techniques to help individuals facing various challenges, including depression, grief and loss, relational issues, life transitions, family issues, panic disorder, and school-related issues such as school phobia and adjustment to changes.
(866) 520-2968 View (866) 520-2968

See more therapy options for 03844

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 03844

20+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in 03844 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
83% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder
63% Life Transitions
58% ADHD
54% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
91% Cigna and Evernorth
91% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 03844 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 03844?

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.