Photo of Soraya Glidewell, MSEd, LMHC, Counselor
Soraya Glidewell
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Navigating challenges like infertility, grief, anxiety or parenting can be overwhelming. I am here to provide the guidance you seek for your healing journey. I am currently offering individual therapy.
Navigating challenges like infertility, grief, anxiety or parenting can be overwhelming. I am here to provide the guidance you seek for your healing journey. I am currently offering individual therapy.
(929) 416-0293 View (929) 416-0293
Photo of Mark Anthony Simeone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Anthony Simeone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mr. Mark A. Simeone is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience serving the needs of individuals, families, and children. Mr. Simeone‘s experience includes, but is not limited to, working with emotionally challenged youth, ADHD related behaviors, child/adult depression management, aging and trauma, grief and loss. I have worked in various human service capacities such as Family/Children work, and is a seasoned Behavioral Health Specialist who works with LGBTQ, elderly, foster care population, couples, families and individuals.
Mr. Mark A. Simeone is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience serving the needs of individuals, families, and children. Mr. Simeone‘s experience includes, but is not limited to, working with emotionally challenged youth, ADHD related behaviors, child/adult depression management, aging and trauma, grief and loss. I have worked in various human service capacities such as Family/Children work, and is a seasoned Behavioral Health Specialist who works with LGBTQ, elderly, foster care population, couples, families and individuals.
(212) 375-2684 View (212) 375-2684
Photo of Kaisha Josephs, LMHC, Counselor
Kaisha Josephs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with years of experience working with people of various ages to overcome behavioral and emotional issues. I approach counseling from a holistic view, utilizing various theoretical approaches that fits with the individual needs. I conduct sessions through a strength-based perspective, and utilize other modalities that apply to the clients need such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychoeducation. I believe in the idea of collaboration to create realistic goals and to encourage clients to develop their own sense of wellbeing
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with years of experience working with people of various ages to overcome behavioral and emotional issues. I approach counseling from a holistic view, utilizing various theoretical approaches that fits with the individual needs. I conduct sessions through a strength-based perspective, and utilize other modalities that apply to the clients need such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychoeducation. I believe in the idea of collaboration to create realistic goals and to encourage clients to develop their own sense of wellbeing
Photo of Racine Renee Henry, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Racine Renee Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
The word Sankofa means "one must go back in order to move forward". The idea is that in order to move forward into our highest potential, we must use the best of what was in our past. As a relational therapist who primarily works from a Solution-Focused approach, the word Sankofa reflects my belief that learning from our experiences in the past can contribute to healing in the present and future. I believe we are all capable of change through an effective solution. I have experience bringing about the changes that will lead to a healthier and happier life.
The word Sankofa means "one must go back in order to move forward". The idea is that in order to move forward into our highest potential, we must use the best of what was in our past. As a relational therapist who primarily works from a Solution-Focused approach, the word Sankofa reflects my belief that learning from our experiences in the past can contribute to healing in the present and future. I believe we are all capable of change through an effective solution. I have experience bringing about the changes that will lead to a healthier and happier life.
(646) 798-7139 View (646) 798-7139
Photo of Christie Terrell DeBruce - Life Lessons Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Lessons Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client would be someone male or female or LGBTQIA that is struggling to make sense of the world and all of its idiosyncrasies. You need help to be able to move forward when stuck and need an extra nudge from someone on the outside looking in. Your issue could be depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, lack of confidence or lack of assertiveness. Your goal would be to gain understanding, to talk without fear or inhibition and to make needed changes in order to live your best life. Sometimes childhood trauma still has an affect on you today. I will try to help you to gain insight into your past.
My ideal client would be someone male or female or LGBTQIA that is struggling to make sense of the world and all of its idiosyncrasies. You need help to be able to move forward when stuck and need an extra nudge from someone on the outside looking in. Your issue could be depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, lack of confidence or lack of assertiveness. Your goal would be to gain understanding, to talk without fear or inhibition and to make needed changes in order to live your best life. Sometimes childhood trauma still has an affect on you today. I will try to help you to gain insight into your past.
(929) 538-3438 View (929) 538-3438
Photo of Therapy Connection - Therapy Connection, LMHC, LPC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapy Connection
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
You're burnt out, stressed, and overwhelmed! You feel like there is no place to turn to and just not enough time to take care of yourself. You know that you need to help yourself now in order to help others but you just have not found the time to take care of yourself. You are looking for a solution to be able to care for your mental health. You are ready to make the change to putting yourself as a priority and you are looking for the tools to get you there.
You're burnt out, stressed, and overwhelmed! You feel like there is no place to turn to and just not enough time to take care of yourself. You know that you need to help yourself now in order to help others but you just have not found the time to take care of yourself. You are looking for a solution to be able to care for your mental health. You are ready to make the change to putting yourself as a priority and you are looking for the tools to get you there.
(347) 408-2681 View (347) 408-2681
Photo of Gary Siegel - Wellness Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
If you are ready to embark on a journey to improve your life the therapists at Project Hospitality's Wellness Center are excited to serve you! We provide heart-felt compassionate care to those seeking therapeutic supports. We employ a wide variety of techniques suited to your inidividual goals, but you are always in control of your own therapy. We also offer the option of psychiatric services and medication for anyone that would also like that added support.
If you are ready to embark on a journey to improve your life the therapists at Project Hospitality's Wellness Center are excited to serve you! We provide heart-felt compassionate care to those seeking therapeutic supports. We employ a wide variety of techniques suited to your inidividual goals, but you are always in control of your own therapy. We also offer the option of psychiatric services and medication for anyone that would also like that added support.
(347) 745-7451 View (347) 745-7451
Photo of Sefedin S. Rakipi, PsyD, Psychologist
Sefedin S. Rakipi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with clients who suffer from range of emotional problems, including difficulties with anger management, depression, anxiety, interpersonal, and family issues. I work with couples, families, children, and adult individuals. I use individual, group, and family therapy as treatment modalities. I view psychotherapy as a process whereby a client is assisted to explore, understand, and constructs his/her past experiences in more realistic and positive ways to help strengthen one's self-esteem. This process is achieved by creating a working environment of trust, acceptance and non judgment that fosters self-acceptance and emotional growth.
I work with clients who suffer from range of emotional problems, including difficulties with anger management, depression, anxiety, interpersonal, and family issues. I work with couples, families, children, and adult individuals. I use individual, group, and family therapy as treatment modalities. I view psychotherapy as a process whereby a client is assisted to explore, understand, and constructs his/her past experiences in more realistic and positive ways to help strengthen one's self-esteem. This process is achieved by creating a working environment of trust, acceptance and non judgment that fosters self-acceptance and emotional growth.
(718) 612-7807 View (718) 612-7807
Linda M Elassad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
25 years of experience helping people. I have vast experience and training treating Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Bereavement and Trauma. Helping adult Individuals and couples continues to be a successful focus of my work. I will be conducting sessions on line, Face time or Skype during the Corona Pandemic. Insurance Companies will reimburse. Free 10 minute consultation
25 years of experience helping people. I have vast experience and training treating Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Bereavement and Trauma. Helping adult Individuals and couples continues to be a successful focus of my work. I will be conducting sessions on line, Face time or Skype during the Corona Pandemic. Insurance Companies will reimburse. Free 10 minute consultation
(718) 414-6208 View (718) 414-6208
Photo of Jeanette Baldassano, PhD, PD, MA, Psychologist
Jeanette Baldassano
Psychologist, PhD, PD, MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You've taken the first step in tackling those issues which have become difficult to manage. Share your story with an experienced professional in a private and confidential setting. Gaining insight gives us solutions that may not be that difficult to put in place. I am a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of experience with children, adolescents, adults and couples. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, poor self confidence or stress resulting from relationships with family, friends or co-workers, don't go it alone and make an appointment today.
You've taken the first step in tackling those issues which have become difficult to manage. Share your story with an experienced professional in a private and confidential setting. Gaining insight gives us solutions that may not be that difficult to put in place. I am a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of experience with children, adolescents, adults and couples. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, poor self confidence or stress resulting from relationships with family, friends or co-workers, don't go it alone and make an appointment today.
(718) 285-7298 View (718) 285-7298
Photo of Bethzayda A. Matos, MHC, MSEd, MPA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bethzayda A. Matos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC, MSEd, MPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal as a therapist is to provide guidance and support to individuals and families to help them strengthen their relationships with themselves, their family members, and community. This will happen by creating a cohesive and trusting therapeutic relationship and guiding the understanding and the meaning of feelings and behaviors.
My goal as a therapist is to provide guidance and support to individuals and families to help them strengthen their relationships with themselves, their family members, and community. This will happen by creating a cohesive and trusting therapeutic relationship and guiding the understanding and the meaning of feelings and behaviors.
(347) 754-3657 View (347) 754-3657
Photo of Charley Wininger, LP, LMHC, Counselor
Charley Wininger
Counselor, LP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a licensed psychotherapist for over 30 years, and an experienced psychonaut (one who experiments with psychedelic medicines) the past 50 years, I am well qualified to help you (alone, or with your partner) prepare for and integrate a psychedelic experience. Couples are my specialty. As you probably understand, I cannot and do not encourage you to experiment with illegal substances. But if you are an adult who has had, or is intending to have, such an experience, and need help minimizing its risks and maximizing its benefits, I'm here to help.
As a licensed psychotherapist for over 30 years, and an experienced psychonaut (one who experiments with psychedelic medicines) the past 50 years, I am well qualified to help you (alone, or with your partner) prepare for and integrate a psychedelic experience. Couples are my specialty. As you probably understand, I cannot and do not encourage you to experiment with illegal substances. But if you are an adult who has had, or is intending to have, such an experience, and need help minimizing its risks and maximizing its benefits, I'm here to help.
(718) 569-7110 View (718) 569-7110

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carly Brooks, PsyD, LMSW, Psychologist
Carly Brooks
Psychologist, PsyD, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
I specialize in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety and mood disorders. I have received extensive training in both cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). I treat children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, OCD, ADHD, life transitions, self esteem issues, parenting challenges, and family and relationship conflict. I received my doctorate in School-Clinical Psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University. I also received a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University.
I specialize in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety and mood disorders. I have received extensive training in both cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). I treat children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, OCD, ADHD, life transitions, self esteem issues, parenting challenges, and family and relationship conflict. I received my doctorate in School-Clinical Psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University. I also received a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University.
(646) 956-4522 View (646) 956-4522
Photo of Eleanor Ippolito, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Eleanor Ippolito
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209
I am an experienced Mental Health Counselor with an international background in clinical psychology and research. I am deeply committed to provide help during difficult phases of a person's life journey. I specialize in working with adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship struggles, and bereavement. During my years of practice, I worked extensively with patients addressing recent and/or past traumatic experiences, especially within the framework of complex trauma. I am also experienced in working with couples and the specific challenges they encounter in each stage of their relationship.
I am an experienced Mental Health Counselor with an international background in clinical psychology and research. I am deeply committed to provide help during difficult phases of a person's life journey. I specialize in working with adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship struggles, and bereavement. During my years of practice, I worked extensively with patients addressing recent and/or past traumatic experiences, especially within the framework of complex trauma. I am also experienced in working with couples and the specific challenges they encounter in each stage of their relationship.
(646) 956-4553 View (646) 956-4553
Photo of Brianna Hawk, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianna Hawk
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Welcome! If you are looking to navigate difficult patterns stemming from childhood, relationship and intimacy challenges, understanding and healing trauma, self-empowerment and managing intense emotions and thoughts, I am here to help. I facilitate a therapeutic space where you can confront your concerns and fears while working to envision a path forward that feels manageable and in alignment with your values. I offer a collaborative approach where we work together to better understand your individual needs and preferences. My style is direct with honest feedback, accountability, and insight to help you move forward in your goals.
Welcome! If you are looking to navigate difficult patterns stemming from childhood, relationship and intimacy challenges, understanding and healing trauma, self-empowerment and managing intense emotions and thoughts, I am here to help. I facilitate a therapeutic space where you can confront your concerns and fears while working to envision a path forward that feels manageable and in alignment with your values. I offer a collaborative approach where we work together to better understand your individual needs and preferences. My style is direct with honest feedback, accountability, and insight to help you move forward in your goals.
(929) 284-2590 View (929) 284-2590
Photo of Jennifer Wolfe, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice focuses on individuals and couples, ranging in age from 18 to elderly. I strive to create a safe environment in which to explore life stressors, patterns of relating with others, and how past experiences impact the present. Areas of professional practice include anxiety/depression, chronic illness including HIV, grief/loss, relationships, sexual issues, separation/divorce, LGBTQ, family planning, career transition, and finances. I have extensive experience with addictions, and work collaboratively with clients, whether the goal is safer substance use, reducing use, or abstinence.
My practice focuses on individuals and couples, ranging in age from 18 to elderly. I strive to create a safe environment in which to explore life stressors, patterns of relating with others, and how past experiences impact the present. Areas of professional practice include anxiety/depression, chronic illness including HIV, grief/loss, relationships, sexual issues, separation/divorce, LGBTQ, family planning, career transition, and finances. I have extensive experience with addictions, and work collaboratively with clients, whether the goal is safer substance use, reducing use, or abstinence.
(646) 600-8129 View (646) 600-8129
Photo of Mark Beauregard, MA, RDT-BCT, LCAT, AF-EMDR
Mark Beauregard
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, RDT-BCT, LCAT, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10007
Finding a therapist who you connect to is important in achieving your goals. With over twenty years of experience, I specialize in the integration of verbal psychotherapy and the arts to help people move from a place of feeling stuck to a place of feeling empowered, confident, and creative. I bring warmth, compassion, humor, truthful communication and collaboration to the therapy process, offering a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings creatively and work toward solutions and resolutions at your own pace. I practice from a relational, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed framework, and am EMDR trained.
Finding a therapist who you connect to is important in achieving your goals. With over twenty years of experience, I specialize in the integration of verbal psychotherapy and the arts to help people move from a place of feeling stuck to a place of feeling empowered, confident, and creative. I bring warmth, compassion, humor, truthful communication and collaboration to the therapy process, offering a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings creatively and work toward solutions and resolutions at your own pace. I practice from a relational, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed framework, and am EMDR trained.
(917) 924-5144 View (917) 924-5144
Photo of Joel F. Jaro, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel F. Jaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Are you in emotional distress and feeling alone with these feelings? I specialize in forging close, interactive relationships with my clients to help you ease your suffering and begin taking the necessary steps in achieving personal fulfillment and to begin the process of eliminating DIS-EASE... It is my belief that although it is important to develop insight in to your areas of stress and conflict; I feel that thoughts that don't lead to action steps are at the end of the day, hollow. * Please note that my extensive training in teletherapy and video will be directly applied to people who have worries related to Covid-19.
Are you in emotional distress and feeling alone with these feelings? I specialize in forging close, interactive relationships with my clients to help you ease your suffering and begin taking the necessary steps in achieving personal fulfillment and to begin the process of eliminating DIS-EASE... It is my belief that although it is important to develop insight in to your areas of stress and conflict; I feel that thoughts that don't lead to action steps are at the end of the day, hollow. * Please note that my extensive training in teletherapy and video will be directly applied to people who have worries related to Covid-19.
(917) 746-0395 View (917) 746-0395
Photo of Nyla Kamlet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nyla Kamlet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
My clients are engaged and want to be in a place where they can enjoy life and maximize opportunities. They want to have strong family relationships, to confidently explore the world around them, and make connections. Whether they are struggling with anxiety or depression, developing their identity, or trying to integrate in social setting, we will partner to create tangible goals and work towards them. We utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques including CBT, client-centered, journaling and just talking. In all therapy, I am respectful of the mind-body connection.
My clients are engaged and want to be in a place where they can enjoy life and maximize opportunities. They want to have strong family relationships, to confidently explore the world around them, and make connections. Whether they are struggling with anxiety or depression, developing their identity, or trying to integrate in social setting, we will partner to create tangible goals and work towards them. We utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques including CBT, client-centered, journaling and just talking. In all therapy, I am respectful of the mind-body connection.
(646) 849-3358 View (646) 849-3358
Photo of Carol Snyder, PhD, Psychologist
Carol Snyder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
There may be times in your life when you feel that the burden of your problems is interfering with a relationship, work, or in general with the quality of your life. Depression, anxiety, a loss, a problem in your past, or perhaps an unknown cause results in distress. A person can enter psychotherapy to find out how to deal with these problems and emotions more effectively. Asking for help can be easy or hard but talking to a caring professional can be the first step to alleviating a variety of problems.
There may be times in your life when you feel that the burden of your problems is interfering with a relationship, work, or in general with the quality of your life. Depression, anxiety, a loss, a problem in your past, or perhaps an unknown cause results in distress. A person can enter psychotherapy to find out how to deal with these problems and emotions more effectively. Asking for help can be easy or hard but talking to a caring professional can be the first step to alleviating a variety of problems.
(718) 208-4887 View (718) 208-4887

See more therapy options for 10303

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 10303

10+

Average cost per session

$142

Therapists in 10303 who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
75% Anxiety
67% Relationship Issues
58% Grief
58% Trauma and PTSD
58% Divorce
58% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

25 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

How Therapists in 10303 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 10303?

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.