Photo of Joy Richardson (Graceli Counseling Services), MSW
Joy Richardson (Graceli Counseling Services)
MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a masters level therapist that enjoys supporting individuals in reaching their personal goals. I believe in meeting a person where they are. In my therapeutic approach, I take a strength-based approach. I would like each of my clients to feel empowered and confident in their ability to maneuver through their therapeutic journey. I believe the things that we go through in life do not define us; they just shape us. People are resilient and have the ability and strength to overcome obstacles. With support, a desire to overcome/work through your challenges, and positive coping mechanisms, you can succeed.
I am a masters level therapist that enjoys supporting individuals in reaching their personal goals. I believe in meeting a person where they are. In my therapeutic approach, I take a strength-based approach. I would like each of my clients to feel empowered and confident in their ability to maneuver through their therapeutic journey. I believe the things that we go through in life do not define us; they just shape us. People are resilient and have the ability and strength to overcome obstacles. With support, a desire to overcome/work through your challenges, and positive coping mechanisms, you can succeed.
(272) 422-1352 View (272) 422-1352
Photo of Cornelia Sewell-Allen - Karizmatic Counseling LLC., EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karizmatic Counseling LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
This might feel like a difficult first step in getting yourself the help you want and need. It is never easy prioritizing YOU when everything around you seems to be falling apart. I would like to help you on your journey to self-actualization, towards the person you are truly meant to be and towards the person you always knew you were. This therapeutic journey is about discovering and exploring together, as a team, which direction you want to go. As the driver, you will direct the sessions, but as the passenger, I will be there to assist and guide you along the way.
This might feel like a difficult first step in getting yourself the help you want and need. It is never easy prioritizing YOU when everything around you seems to be falling apart. I would like to help you on your journey to self-actualization, towards the person you are truly meant to be and towards the person you always knew you were. This therapeutic journey is about discovering and exploring together, as a team, which direction you want to go. As the driver, you will direct the sessions, but as the passenger, I will be there to assist and guide you along the way.
(570) 216-5614 View (570) 216-5614
Photo of Alexandra Sguera, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Sguera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clients often reach out during times of distress when life situations or challenges have become overwhelming. Family stressors, anxiety, depression or managing negative thoughts and behaviors are issues that many have faced. Here at East Stroudsburg Counseling Associates, we can help steer you towards the path of balancing these stressors and discovering new techniques and tools to manage life challenges. With motivation and support, change and adaptation is possible at any time in life.
Clients often reach out during times of distress when life situations or challenges have become overwhelming. Family stressors, anxiety, depression or managing negative thoughts and behaviors are issues that many have faced. Here at East Stroudsburg Counseling Associates, we can help steer you towards the path of balancing these stressors and discovering new techniques and tools to manage life challenges. With motivation and support, change and adaptation is possible at any time in life.
(570) 938-4611 View (570) 938-4611
Photo of Julie Bergstresser - Julie Bergstresser, LCSW, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Bergstresser, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing Clinical Social Worker for 15+ years and enjoy helping my clients to fully realize their potential and to successfully cope with a variety of life's challenges to include transitions, depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, addiction, & general challenges to living successfully. I use a collaborative approach to meet each client where they are and to assist in setting goals and determining what steps they would like to take. We will work together to track progress and make adjustments. All people deserve the opportunity to live the fullest life available to them. I am taking online clients in PA & NJ
I have been a practicing Clinical Social Worker for 15+ years and enjoy helping my clients to fully realize their potential and to successfully cope with a variety of life's challenges to include transitions, depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, addiction, & general challenges to living successfully. I use a collaborative approach to meet each client where they are and to assist in setting goals and determining what steps they would like to take. We will work together to track progress and make adjustments. All people deserve the opportunity to live the fullest life available to them. I am taking online clients in PA & NJ
(717) 546-8914 View (717) 546-8914
Photo of Ilene M. Bustos - Creative Solution Counseling, LLC, MA, ATR-BC, ATCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Creative Solution Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, ATCS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Conveniently located in East Stroudsburg. Focus of my practice is assisting clients, ages 11 to 65+, in coping with problems in their daily lives and dealing with inner conflicts which may hinder personal satisfaction and functioning. Together we will identify goals for treatment, barriers that may keep you from accomplishing your goals and develop strategies to overcome these barriers. Available for Pennsylvania LPC Supervision and ATR-BC.
Conveniently located in East Stroudsburg. Focus of my practice is assisting clients, ages 11 to 65+, in coping with problems in their daily lives and dealing with inner conflicts which may hinder personal satisfaction and functioning. Together we will identify goals for treatment, barriers that may keep you from accomplishing your goals and develop strategies to overcome these barriers. Available for Pennsylvania LPC Supervision and ATR-BC.
(570) 232-4749 View (570) 232-4749
Photo of Megan Thorry, LPC, Counselor
Megan Thorry
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301  (Online Only)
My name is Megan and my journey has not been a straight road. In 2012 I decided I wanted a career change and went back to school to be a therapist. With a Bachelor’s degree in marketing, I luckily did not have to completely start over but did need some psych classes before I started graduate school. In 2015 I graduated with my Master’s of Arts in Counseling Psychology.
My name is Megan and my journey has not been a straight road. In 2012 I decided I wanted a career change and went back to school to be a therapist. With a Bachelor’s degree in marketing, I luckily did not have to completely start over but did need some psych classes before I started graduate school. In 2015 I graduated with my Master’s of Arts in Counseling Psychology.
(570) 364-4919 View (570) 364-4919
Photo of Abby E Bell, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby E Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Look no further for a therapist. With over 35 years of both inpatient & outpatient experience, I am not that therapist who repeatedly asks,”How do you feel about that?” Instead, my goal is to proactively work with you as a team to inspire change. Through gained insight & discernment, we will identify & cleanse the toxic areas in your life that hinder you from healthy decision making & inner peace.
Look no further for a therapist. With over 35 years of both inpatient & outpatient experience, I am not that therapist who repeatedly asks,”How do you feel about that?” Instead, my goal is to proactively work with you as a team to inspire change. Through gained insight & discernment, we will identify & cleanse the toxic areas in your life that hinder you from healthy decision making & inner peace.
(272) 200-3447 View (272) 200-3447
Photo of Cindy Pilcher, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Pilcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective counseling to individuals and couples seeking help navigating their mental and emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and extensive training in evidence-based therapeutic techniques, my goal is to empower clients to overcome challenges, enhance self-awareness, and achieve personal growth.
As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective counseling to individuals and couples seeking help navigating their mental and emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and extensive training in evidence-based therapeutic techniques, my goal is to empower clients to overcome challenges, enhance self-awareness, and achieve personal growth.
(570) 608-8896 View (570) 608-8896
Photo of Brandon Christopher Fisher - Water Gap Wellness Center, MA, CPRP, CCTP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Water Gap Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CPRP, CCTP, LPC
Verified Verified
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
(272) 435-8157 View (272) 435-8157
Photo of Lacey Anger - Water Gap Wellness, MSW
Water Gap Wellness
MSW
Verified Verified
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. My ideal Client is someone who has a mental health diagnosis or a substance use disorder. I will help the client set and achieve short and long term goals along with assisting in identifying triggers, coping skills and other areas of needs.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. My ideal Client is someone who has a mental health diagnosis or a substance use disorder. I will help the client set and achieve short and long term goals along with assisting in identifying triggers, coping skills and other areas of needs.
(570) 243-0229 View (570) 243-0229
Photo of Lauryn Lewis, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauryn Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in normalizing the need for treatment and providing a safe place to explore the issues that have impacted one's ability to live life, authentically. I have worked in a large variety of settings which include outpatient, crisis, inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient treatment which has enabled me the opportunity to work with individuals with a wide variety of diagnoses and experiences. Through doing same, I have learned that it is imperative to treat the person, not the diagnosis.
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in normalizing the need for treatment and providing a safe place to explore the issues that have impacted one's ability to live life, authentically. I have worked in a large variety of settings which include outpatient, crisis, inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient treatment which has enabled me the opportunity to work with individuals with a wide variety of diagnoses and experiences. Through doing same, I have learned that it is imperative to treat the person, not the diagnosis.
(833) 949-8671 View (833) 949-8671
Photo of Karen Schelling - Karen Schelling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Schelling, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
There are many models of counseling with underlying philosophies of treatment. I use a model that believes healing occurs when we become aware of our issues, increase our insight and learn how to put alternative coping strategies into practice. I use traditional methodology as well as creative activities, including guided meditation, relaxation techniques and humor. I have an interest in animal assisted therapy. My approach is strength-based, using a person's natural skills, talents and abilities in the service of their own healing. It is a respectful, positive approach designed to support an individual's journey toward balance.
There are many models of counseling with underlying philosophies of treatment. I use a model that believes healing occurs when we become aware of our issues, increase our insight and learn how to put alternative coping strategies into practice. I use traditional methodology as well as creative activities, including guided meditation, relaxation techniques and humor. I have an interest in animal assisted therapy. My approach is strength-based, using a person's natural skills, talents and abilities in the service of their own healing. It is a respectful, positive approach designed to support an individual's journey toward balance.
(570) 689-8192 View (570) 689-8192
Photo of Anna Schubbe, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Schubbe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for change. Every individual and couple possesses the strength to overcome their struggles and create a fulfilling, balanced life.Relationships can be incredibly fulfilling, yet they can also be a source of significant stress and conflict. Whether you are dealing with communication breakdowns, trust issues, or the pain of infidelity, I provide compassionate guidance to help you and your partner navigate these challenges. My goal is to foster open communication, mutual understanding, and emotional intimacy, empowering couples to build stronger, healthier relationships.
I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for change. Every individual and couple possesses the strength to overcome their struggles and create a fulfilling, balanced life.Relationships can be incredibly fulfilling, yet they can also be a source of significant stress and conflict. Whether you are dealing with communication breakdowns, trust issues, or the pain of infidelity, I provide compassionate guidance to help you and your partner navigate these challenges. My goal is to foster open communication, mutual understanding, and emotional intimacy, empowering couples to build stronger, healthier relationships.
(484) 559-7059 View (484) 559-7059
Photo of Al Ciliberto - Water Gap Wellness, CADC, CCS, CCTP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Water Gap Wellness
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC, CCS, CCTP
Not Verified Not Verified
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
(272) 435-8190 View (272) 435-8190
Photo of Jason Miller - Jason Miller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Miller, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Everyone experiences challenges in life which can be difficult to navigate; leaving one feeling anxious, depressed or simply unable to cope. Feeling heard, understood and respected is essential to overcoming these life changes and obstacles. I provide counseling services that couple a supportive client-counselor relationship with strength and evidence-based treatments in order to reach your goals. Sometimes ones’ challenges involve those closest to us; in these situations I will provide counseling for family relationships that is geared at improving communication and increasing family unity.
Everyone experiences challenges in life which can be difficult to navigate; leaving one feeling anxious, depressed or simply unable to cope. Feeling heard, understood and respected is essential to overcoming these life changes and obstacles. I provide counseling services that couple a supportive client-counselor relationship with strength and evidence-based treatments in order to reach your goals. Sometimes ones’ challenges involve those closest to us; in these situations I will provide counseling for family relationships that is geared at improving communication and increasing family unity.
(570) 258-8743 View (570) 258-8743
Photo of Jill Isaacson - Profound Perspectives, LLC, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Profound Perspectives, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jill Isaacson graduated from Chestnut Hill College, where she earned a degree in clinical and counseling psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent therapy. With a decade of experience working with children in clinical settings, Jill has specialized in supporting adolescents and couples.
Jill Isaacson graduated from Chestnut Hill College, where she earned a degree in clinical and counseling psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent therapy. With a decade of experience working with children in clinical settings, Jill has specialized in supporting adolescents and couples.
(570) 526-4712 View (570) 526-4712
Photo of Prunella Harris - Restorative Family Services LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Restorative Family Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Are you feeling discouraged with trying to access help? Is trying to understand your insurance benefits overwhelming? Perhaps, you have contacted a few providers and your calls have not been returned? Don't give up! Help is here. Restorative Family Services knows just how difficult accessing the right care can be and we are here to walk with you on your journey toward wellness. We make it easy for you to get help quickly. We take care of the insurance stuff, and we help you select the right therapist for you. In addition, we assist you in locating additional supports and resources you may need.
Are you feeling discouraged with trying to access help? Is trying to understand your insurance benefits overwhelming? Perhaps, you have contacted a few providers and your calls have not been returned? Don't give up! Help is here. Restorative Family Services knows just how difficult accessing the right care can be and we are here to walk with you on your journey toward wellness. We make it easy for you to get help quickly. We take care of the insurance stuff, and we help you select the right therapist for you. In addition, we assist you in locating additional supports and resources you may need.
(570) 972-2476 View (570) 972-2476
Photo of Kandia Palmer, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kandia Palmer
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Do you find yourself looking for support and guidance through challenging times? As a life coach, I am charged to provide a listening ear with caring and compassionate services through life challenges. Through talk therapy, we can explore a healing path in a safe and encouraging environment free of judgment.
Do you find yourself looking for support and guidance through challenging times? As a life coach, I am charged to provide a listening ear with caring and compassionate services through life challenges. Through talk therapy, we can explore a healing path in a safe and encouraging environment free of judgment.
(272) 422-0631 View (272) 422-0631
Photo of Patricia Fox, LCSW, CCDP-D, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP-D, CCTP
Verified Verified
My perfect client would be someone who may be struggling with real life issues unique to them. I would like to help you get your mental and emotional health where you would like it to be, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Whether you are struggling with addiction, your relationship or any other life stress, we can work together on your goals. I am I have over 14 years in the field and use evidenced based and client centered treatment. I treat each individual with respect and dignity. I treat people with mood disorders, PTSD, Bipolar as well as personality disorders. I have experience in dealing with Crisis.
My perfect client would be someone who may be struggling with real life issues unique to them. I would like to help you get your mental and emotional health where you would like it to be, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Whether you are struggling with addiction, your relationship or any other life stress, we can work together on your goals. I am I have over 14 years in the field and use evidenced based and client centered treatment. I treat each individual with respect and dignity. I treat people with mood disorders, PTSD, Bipolar as well as personality disorders. I have experience in dealing with Crisis.
(570) 276-0498 View (570) 276-0498
Photo of Tara Innocent - Water Gap Wellness Center, MS
Water Gap Wellness Center
MS
Verified Verified
Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
(570) 755-4197 View (570) 755-4197
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 18301

40+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 18301 who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
81% Anxiety
72% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
62% Self Esteem
60% Relationship Issues
53% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Highmark
69% Optum

How Therapists in 18301 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 18301?

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.