Therapists in 06243

Photo of Christina Parham - Parham Counseling Services, LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Parham Counseling Services, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Serves Area
Newly relocated to Danielson, CT.! Now offering medication management services. Specializing in adults, family, and child/adolescent age groups. We offer treatment for depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, adjustment issues, substance abuse and trauma related difficulties. Our approach is client centered, while identifying a specific treatment plan that will motivate and strengthen a positive belief system to encourage recovery. We are skilled in helping clients identify objective personal goals in therapy and medication management services. We assist in achieving these goals through consistent and compassionate support.
Newly relocated to Danielson, CT.! Now offering medication management services. Specializing in adults, family, and child/adolescent age groups. We offer treatment for depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, adjustment issues, substance abuse and trauma related difficulties. Our approach is client centered, while identifying a specific treatment plan that will motivate and strengthen a positive belief system to encourage recovery. We are skilled in helping clients identify objective personal goals in therapy and medication management services. We assist in achieving these goals through consistent and compassionate support.
(860) 451-0645 View (860) 451-0645
Photo of Andrea M. Delage, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andrea M. Delage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field since 2005. I have worked with groups, families, couples and individuals of all age groups at both PHP/IOP and outpatient LOC. Currently I focus on young adults to the elderly with grief & loss, neurodivergency, social/relational/marital discord, mood/anxiety disorders, anger, LGBTQ, political duress, chronic illness, life transitions, safety, trauma & loved ones of SUD. I utilize a solutions focused, strengths based approach that encourages personal empowerment & healthy decision making and I am passionate about supporting you on your journey of wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field since 2005. I have worked with groups, families, couples and individuals of all age groups at both PHP/IOP and outpatient LOC. Currently I focus on young adults to the elderly with grief & loss, neurodivergency, social/relational/marital discord, mood/anxiety disorders, anger, LGBTQ, political duress, chronic illness, life transitions, safety, trauma & loved ones of SUD. I utilize a solutions focused, strengths based approach that encourages personal empowerment & healthy decision making and I am passionate about supporting you on your journey of wellness.
(860) 357-6697 View (860) 357-6697
Photo of Danielle Laprade, Counselor, LPC
Danielle Laprade
Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hey there! I am a clinician who just lives it one day at a time and I am probably the most diverse and accepting of them. I find myself good in parenting dilemma, coaching, men's issues, issues for those with economic hardships and college students or those at roads of turn pathways, truly those to be changed by the work we put in. I am person and a mother, I am imperfect and still learning to run this online so bear with me. I am a great learner and have only my best intentions to you all! Life is a series of transitions, and no one should have to navigate them alone.
Hey there! I am a clinician who just lives it one day at a time and I am probably the most diverse and accepting of them. I find myself good in parenting dilemma, coaching, men's issues, issues for those with economic hardships and college students or those at roads of turn pathways, truly those to be changed by the work we put in. I am person and a mother, I am imperfect and still learning to run this online so bear with me. I am a great learner and have only my best intentions to you all! Life is a series of transitions, and no one should have to navigate them alone.
(860) 718-4261 View (860) 718-4261

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Druanne Cahill, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC
Druanne Cahill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC
Chaplin, CT 06235
Thank you for reading my profile. I am a licensed professional counselor with over thirty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1984 with my bachelors degree and Tufts University in 1987 with my masters degree I see my role as a therapist who guides clients through the difficult journeys we all struggle with. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in which we can develop a constructive therapeutic relationship to address the issues. I can assist with skills such as communication skills, assertiveness skills, relaxation skills and relationship skills. .
Thank you for reading my profile. I am a licensed professional counselor with over thirty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1984 with my bachelors degree and Tufts University in 1987 with my masters degree I see my role as a therapist who guides clients through the difficult journeys we all struggle with. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in which we can develop a constructive therapeutic relationship to address the issues. I can assist with skills such as communication skills, assertiveness skills, relaxation skills and relationship skills. .
(959) 666-6949 View (959) 666-6949
Photo of Cami Little, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cami Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Norwich, CT 06360
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re used to holding it all together on your own. If you’re feeling anxious, burned out, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone either. My name is Cami Little. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 10 years experience in the field. My specialties include treatment of adult anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and adjustment to life’s stressors. I also have a passion in working with fertility challenges/women's issues and those undergoing assistive reproductive technology (ART).
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re used to holding it all together on your own. If you’re feeling anxious, burned out, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone either. My name is Cami Little. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 10 years experience in the field. My specialties include treatment of adult anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and adjustment to life’s stressors. I also have a passion in working with fertility challenges/women's issues and those undergoing assistive reproductive technology (ART).
(860) 530-2391 View (860) 530-2391
Photo of Tracey Laszloffy - Center for Healing Connections, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Center for Healing Connections
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Norwich, CT 06360
Are you struggling with relationship problems....perhaps a loss of intimacy, cycles of anger and arguing, disconnection, cheating, or communication problems with your partner, your kids, or other family members? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, angry, afraid, or alienated? Are are tired of struggling with feeling sad and down, or stressed out and tense, or suffering from PTSD or the pain and grief of loss?
Are you struggling with relationship problems....perhaps a loss of intimacy, cycles of anger and arguing, disconnection, cheating, or communication problems with your partner, your kids, or other family members? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, angry, afraid, or alienated? Are are tired of struggling with feeling sad and down, or stressed out and tense, or suffering from PTSD or the pain and grief of loss?
(959) 207-2904 View (959) 207-2904
Photo of Rosa Maria Lemus, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rosa Maria Lemus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I want to use my personal and professional experience to collaborate with my clients to discover their own personal power by using tools and strategies that they can use to heal and to drive in their lives. Quiero ofrecer a mis clientes mi experiencia personal y profesional para ayudarles a descubrir su poder personal usando herramientas y estrategias que podran usar para sanar y mejorar sus vidas.
I want to use my personal and professional experience to collaborate with my clients to discover their own personal power by using tools and strategies that they can use to heal and to drive in their lives. Quiero ofrecer a mis clientes mi experiencia personal y profesional para ayudarles a descubrir su poder personal usando herramientas y estrategias que podran usar para sanar y mejorar sus vidas.
(959) 224-2948 View (959) 224-2948
Photo of Richard Hisman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Richard Hisman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Danielson, CT 06239
I am a military veteran who has been working in the Helping Profession since 2015. I have worked at a long-term recovery house, most recently have been working with a public agency treating a variety of issues, and I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I enjoy meeting with people, getting to know them, and helping them to achieve their personal goals.
I am a military veteran who has been working in the Helping Profession since 2015. I have worked at a long-term recovery house, most recently have been working with a public agency treating a variety of issues, and I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I enjoy meeting with people, getting to know them, and helping them to achieve their personal goals.
(860) 512-9648 View (860) 512-9648
Photo of Victor Joseph Roveda, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, ADHD-CC
Victor Joseph Roveda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, ADHD-CC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with older adolescents and adults who feel overwhelmed, distracted, anxious, stuck in overthinking, or worn down by stress. My approach is structured, practical, and goal-focused. Together, we identify what keeps the pattern going and build tools for anxiety, ADHD, avoidance, emotional regulation, and daily follow-through.
I work with older adolescents and adults who feel overwhelmed, distracted, anxious, stuck in overthinking, or worn down by stress. My approach is structured, practical, and goal-focused. Together, we identify what keeps the pattern going and build tools for anxiety, ADHD, avoidance, emotional regulation, and daily follow-through.
(908) 293-7285 View (908) 293-7285
Photo of Linnea Michaels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Linnea Michaels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
<> Grief Support Group starting on Thurs, April 9th 2026 <> Pregnancy and early parenthood can be beautiful and also overwhelming. I specialize in supporting people through the emotional realities of fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting. You may feel constantly worried, emotionally numb, disconnected from your baby or partner, or like you’ve lost yourself. You may be grieving the experience you expected to have. You may feel pressure to be grateful while quietly struggling. Therapy gives you a space where all of it is welcome. www:connpsy:com
<> Grief Support Group starting on Thurs, April 9th 2026 <> Pregnancy and early parenthood can be beautiful and also overwhelming. I specialize in supporting people through the emotional realities of fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting. You may feel constantly worried, emotionally numb, disconnected from your baby or partner, or like you’ve lost yourself. You may be grieving the experience you expected to have. You may feel pressure to be grateful while quietly struggling. Therapy gives you a space where all of it is welcome. www:connpsy:com
(203) 769-9889 View (203) 769-9889
Photo of Crystal MacKinnon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Crystal MacKinnon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Immediate openings for in person sessions available for daytime/morning appointments. No evening availability at this time. Are you struggling with feeling anxious, down or overwhelmed? Feeling overwhelmed by parenting or relational stressors? If so, I’d love to work with you! I believe that therapy is a collaborative effort, built on trust. I strive to create a warm, supportive, authentic and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore life’s challenges whether it be interpersonal, mental health or substance use related.
Immediate openings for in person sessions available for daytime/morning appointments. No evening availability at this time. Are you struggling with feeling anxious, down or overwhelmed? Feeling overwhelmed by parenting or relational stressors? If so, I’d love to work with you! I believe that therapy is a collaborative effort, built on trust. I strive to create a warm, supportive, authentic and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore life’s challenges whether it be interpersonal, mental health or substance use related.
(959) 265-0681 View (959) 265-0681
Photo of Antoinette Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD, Student
Antoinette Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD, Student
5 Endorsed
Pomfret, CT 06258
I offer a space of warmth, depth, and connection—to explore your pain and guide your healing path you as you become the person you wish to be. I believe that healing unfolds in relationship to self, to others, to the land, animals, and to the generations who came before us. I use a psychoanalytic and ecopsychological approach grounded in ancestral wisdom that is gentle and collaborative. I also work with Lyra patients and I'm licensed both in California and Connecticut. My education and training is outlined below. Thank you for viewing my profile.
I offer a space of warmth, depth, and connection—to explore your pain and guide your healing path you as you become the person you wish to be. I believe that healing unfolds in relationship to self, to others, to the land, animals, and to the generations who came before us. I use a psychoanalytic and ecopsychological approach grounded in ancestral wisdom that is gentle and collaborative. I also work with Lyra patients and I'm licensed both in California and Connecticut. My education and training is outlined below. Thank you for viewing my profile.
(707) 679-6552 View (707) 679-6552
Photo of Elynor Carey, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elynor Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. As well as couple’s work focusing on relationship issues, infidelity, and divorce.
Currently accepting new clients. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. As well as couple’s work focusing on relationship issues, infidelity, and divorce.
(860) 407-3191 View (860) 407-3191
Photo of Joyce Johnson - Joyce Johnson @ Whispering Pines Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Joyce Johnson @ Whispering Pines Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chaplin, CT 06235
I am certified in Animal Assisted Therapy and together with my animal partners I offer a non traditional approach to treating anxiety, trauma and depression. Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression? Is traditional talk therapy intimidating or not really your style? Maybe you just don't have the words to describe what you’re feeling. Well you have come to the right place.
I am certified in Animal Assisted Therapy and together with my animal partners I offer a non traditional approach to treating anxiety, trauma and depression. Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression? Is traditional talk therapy intimidating or not really your style? Maybe you just don't have the words to describe what you’re feeling. Well you have come to the right place.
(959) 201-9345 View (959) 201-9345
Photo of Kate Giandonato - Kate Giandonato & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kate Giandonato & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Putnam, CT 06260
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.
(773) 888-4992 View (773) 888-4992
Photo of Ashley Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ashley Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stafford Springs, CT 06076
My lifelong passion is empowering others to maximize opportunities, develop skills, and achieve their personal potential. I believe we all have the power to grow from challenges and stressors; we just need the right guidance and space to do so. I offer high quality individual, couple and/or family therapy to treat a wide range of symptoms, stressors, and/or conflicts. I believe the way change begins to take place is by establishing a trusting relationship with you and by encouraging you to trust and believe in yourself. As this process evolves, a sense of confidence and security develops within, creating a more peaceful life.
My lifelong passion is empowering others to maximize opportunities, develop skills, and achieve their personal potential. I believe we all have the power to grow from challenges and stressors; we just need the right guidance and space to do so. I offer high quality individual, couple and/or family therapy to treat a wide range of symptoms, stressors, and/or conflicts. I believe the way change begins to take place is by establishing a trusting relationship with you and by encouraging you to trust and believe in yourself. As this process evolves, a sense of confidence and security develops within, creating a more peaceful life.
(860) 851-3661 View (860) 851-3661
Photo of Deanna Boucher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Deanna Boucher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Putnam, CT 06260
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here! I support children, teens, and younger adults as they navigate challenges big and small — from anxiety, depression, and grief, to trauma, school stress, family changes, identity exploration, and developmental differences. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodiverse, and disabled communities.
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here! I support children, teens, and younger adults as they navigate challenges big and small — from anxiety, depression, and grief, to trauma, school stress, family changes, identity exploration, and developmental differences. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodiverse, and disabled communities.
(860) 901-1652 View (860) 901-1652
Photo of Laura A Hilton, Psychologist, PsyD
Laura A Hilton
Psychologist, PsyD
Storrs, CT 06268
Welcome and congrats on starting your search for a provider, not always an easy task! I’m a holistic trauma therapist rooted in relational therapy. My style is warm and empathic, and I believe that you're worthy because you are. I take great care to create a comfortable, safe space for you to explore the barriers that are holding you back from attaining your dreams and goals. Please reach out if you'd like to learn more about yourself; how to connect with others on a deeper level; how to set appropriate, healthy boundaries; to allow yourself to feel joy; and to live your life more authentically. I look forward to working with you!
Welcome and congrats on starting your search for a provider, not always an easy task! I’m a holistic trauma therapist rooted in relational therapy. My style is warm and empathic, and I believe that you're worthy because you are. I take great care to create a comfortable, safe space for you to explore the barriers that are holding you back from attaining your dreams and goals. Please reach out if you'd like to learn more about yourself; how to connect with others on a deeper level; how to set appropriate, healthy boundaries; to allow yourself to feel joy; and to live your life more authentically. I look forward to working with you!
(860) 419-6996 View (860) 419-6996
Photo of Andrew Blizard, Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Andrew Blizard
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Serves Area
I work with adults who want to address depression, anxiety, addiction, social isolation/loneliness, and trauma recovery. I also work often with family members of those struggling with addiction. I am a published writer and NYMHCA-presenter on the epidemic of social isolation and loneliness. I utilize evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and behavioral strategies to help my clients learn new skills and make values-aligned choices in their lives.
I work with adults who want to address depression, anxiety, addiction, social isolation/loneliness, and trauma recovery. I also work often with family members of those struggling with addiction. I am a published writer and NYMHCA-presenter on the epidemic of social isolation and loneliness. I utilize evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and behavioral strategies to help my clients learn new skills and make values-aligned choices in their lives.
(845) 402-0208 View (845) 402-0208
Photo of Melinda Mary Tyler, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Melinda Mary Tyler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Preston, CT 06365
I am a Christian Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love to work with people of all ages. I incorporate a Holistic, Systemic approach in my work in these modalities: groups, couples, families and individuals. I have extensive experience teaching parenting and working with youth in a variety of capacities, initially as a Youth Minister, Sunday School teacher and school based lunch bunches. I also work with divorcing and divorced couples in need of better parenting strategies. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT, ART, family therapy theoryand Biblical Principles in my practice.
I am a Christian Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love to work with people of all ages. I incorporate a Holistic, Systemic approach in my work in these modalities: groups, couples, families and individuals. I have extensive experience teaching parenting and working with youth in a variety of capacities, initially as a Youth Minister, Sunday School teacher and school based lunch bunches. I also work with divorcing and divorced couples in need of better parenting strategies. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT, ART, family therapy theoryand Biblical Principles in my practice.
(860) 650-1329 View (860) 650-1329

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 06243

< 10

Therapists in 06243 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Parenting
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Life Transitions
100% Stress
100% Chronic Illness
100% Social Anxiety

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 06243 see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 06243?

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.