Photo of Kara Sprinkle, MA, NCC
Kara Sprinkle
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
Kara Sprinkle is a licensed Mental Health Counselor with 10+ years of proven experience in working with adolescents and families facing high mental, physical, and emotional issues. Additionally, her experiences as a military spouse have coincided with her career path and continue to foster not only who she is as an individual, but also as a professional, which is why she chooses to become a licensed professional counselor. Kara’s therapeutic interests continue to be working with adolescents, veterans, and military families through utilizing an integrative counseling approach tailored to the specific needs of her individual clients.
Kara Sprinkle is a licensed Mental Health Counselor with 10+ years of proven experience in working with adolescents and families facing high mental, physical, and emotional issues. Additionally, her experiences as a military spouse have coincided with her career path and continue to foster not only who she is as an individual, but also as a professional, which is why she chooses to become a licensed professional counselor. Kara’s therapeutic interests continue to be working with adolescents, veterans, and military families through utilizing an integrative counseling approach tailored to the specific needs of her individual clients.
(571) 601-2085 View (571) 601-2085
Photo of Deshia Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Deshia Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
Complacency is not always a good thing, sometimes you must be uncomfortable to be successful. We as humans need help from neutral parties to help us understand things that have been passed down generation to generation, to process the unspoken, the unknown, and many other difficult conversations we don’t want to have with people that know us. I have an interest in women issues, generational issues, families, couples, social justice, and I am sex/kink positive.
Complacency is not always a good thing, sometimes you must be uncomfortable to be successful. We as humans need help from neutral parties to help us understand things that have been passed down generation to generation, to process the unspoken, the unknown, and many other difficult conversations we don’t want to have with people that know us. I have an interest in women issues, generational issues, families, couples, social justice, and I am sex/kink positive.
(571) 200-5284 View (571) 200-5284
Photo of Demitra Chandler - Mental Health CPR LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mental Health CPR LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dumfries, VA 22026
Accepting New Clients! Offering Clinical supervision for supervisees in Social Work! In Person and Online. EMDR, DBT trained and Bilingual clinicians. We offer a safe space with encouragement & support. We will work with you to improve your overall quality of life, help you understand the challenges that may be keeping you from enjoying the life you deserve, & work with you on positive goal setting towards the future.
Accepting New Clients! Offering Clinical supervision for supervisees in Social Work! In Person and Online. EMDR, DBT trained and Bilingual clinicians. We offer a safe space with encouragement & support. We will work with you to improve your overall quality of life, help you understand the challenges that may be keeping you from enjoying the life you deserve, & work with you on positive goal setting towards the future.
(540) 210-1186 View (540) 210-1186
Photo of Ebony Calloway, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ebony Calloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dumfries, VA 22026
My name is Ebony Calloway. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work at the Florida A&M University and Master's in Social Work at University of Central Florida. I am currently licensed as a clinical social worker in Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. I have over 15 years of social work experience. Everyone goes through challenging situations in life and there's nothing wrong with seeking out support when you need it. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, redirect negative patterns and build positive coping skills to promote self-awareness, insight, and autonomy.
My name is Ebony Calloway. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work at the Florida A&M University and Master's in Social Work at University of Central Florida. I am currently licensed as a clinical social worker in Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. I have over 15 years of social work experience. Everyone goes through challenging situations in life and there's nothing wrong with seeking out support when you need it. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, redirect negative patterns and build positive coping skills to promote self-awareness, insight, and autonomy.
(571) 496-8145 View (571) 496-8145
Photo of Jenelle Crescimbeni, MA, NCC
Jenelle Crescimbeni
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Dumfries, VA 22026
I am approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling as a Resident in Counseling and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). My passion is assisting individuals holistically to promote positive changes in their lives. I have experience working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, and adults that have faced a variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I am approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling as a Resident in Counseling and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). My passion is assisting individuals holistically to promote positive changes in their lives. I have experience working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, and adults that have faced a variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(571) 450-9652 View (571) 450-9652
Photo of Laurie L Wilson - Marriage and Family Therapy Solutions, LLC, LMFT, LPC, LSATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage and Family Therapy Solutions, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
Waitlist for new clients
Providing supervision to LPC and LMFT Clinical Residents. As the spouse of a retired military service member, my passion is working with people whose work is serving others; military service members, health care professionals, government employees and teachers. I am a systems therapist and look at how each person is impacted by their entire system i.e. family, friends, work and school. My goal is to help people learn more about themselves, the choices they make, how they communicate with others and how they cope with the stresses of life. Together we will work towards meeting your specific and unique treatment goals.
Providing supervision to LPC and LMFT Clinical Residents. As the spouse of a retired military service member, my passion is working with people whose work is serving others; military service members, health care professionals, government employees and teachers. I am a systems therapist and look at how each person is impacted by their entire system i.e. family, friends, work and school. My goal is to help people learn more about themselves, the choices they make, how they communicate with others and how they cope with the stresses of life. Together we will work towards meeting your specific and unique treatment goals.
(571) 777-0306 View (571) 777-0306
Photo of Christina Rock - Got Your Six Counseling Services, PLLC, LPC, CCTP, CSAC, MAC, CSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Got Your Six Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CSAC, MAC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
Veteran-owned and operated, we seek to help Veterans, First Responders, their Families, and children impacted by traumatic events. We provide specialized individual and group therapy, and provide therapy for a wide range of children, adolescent, and adult clients. We welcome those who are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping, gender identity, mood disorders, relationship issues, sexuality, and addictions. We believe that the situations we experience impact us, but do not define us. Our clinicians are trained to help you reach your full potential and overcome difficult situations.
Veteran-owned and operated, we seek to help Veterans, First Responders, their Families, and children impacted by traumatic events. We provide specialized individual and group therapy, and provide therapy for a wide range of children, adolescent, and adult clients. We welcome those who are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping, gender identity, mood disorders, relationship issues, sexuality, and addictions. We believe that the situations we experience impact us, but do not define us. Our clinicians are trained to help you reach your full potential and overcome difficult situations.
(571) 636-1800 View (571) 636-1800
Photo of Mandy Schweinfest - Upward You Counseling, MEd, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Upward You Counseling
Counselor, MEd, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome!!! Finding a therapist can be challenging and we thank you for your consideration. Mandy at Upward You Counseling treats those ages 15+. She specializes in working with those who are struggling with social skills challenges, OCD, anxieties, life transitions, ADHD, communication, etc. She utilizes Animal Assisted Therapy when in the office setting and will have a dog at her office to offer support and participate in the interventions if applicable to treatment. Mandy believes counseling shouldn’t be a dreaded process and when working together as a team obstacles can be overcome.
Welcome!!! Finding a therapist can be challenging and we thank you for your consideration. Mandy at Upward You Counseling treats those ages 15+. She specializes in working with those who are struggling with social skills challenges, OCD, anxieties, life transitions, ADHD, communication, etc. She utilizes Animal Assisted Therapy when in the office setting and will have a dog at her office to offer support and participate in the interventions if applicable to treatment. Mandy believes counseling shouldn’t be a dreaded process and when working together as a team obstacles can be overcome.
(540) 900-0682 View (540) 900-0682
Photo of Dr. Keshia D. Ross - Complete Choice Counseling & Wellness Center, PhD, LPC, LSATP, ACS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Complete Choice Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LSATP, ACS, CCS
Verified Verified
Dumfries, VA 22026
Your well-being, confidentiality of your information, and confidence in us as your are my top three priorities. We all need a little help working through everyday stressors that become too much for us to handle alone at times. For we were not meant to exist alone but to help build each other up, to help meet and exceed our potential. Going to a Counselor when you feel sad or overwhelmed needs to be as normal as going to the doctor when you're sick. Let's end the stigma about mental health.
Your well-being, confidentiality of your information, and confidence in us as your are my top three priorities. We all need a little help working through everyday stressors that become too much for us to handle alone at times. For we were not meant to exist alone but to help build each other up, to help meet and exceed our potential. Going to a Counselor when you feel sad or overwhelmed needs to be as normal as going to the doctor when you're sick. Let's end the stigma about mental health.
(571) 496-9452 View (571) 496-9452
Photo of Demitra Chandler - Mental Health CPR, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mental Health CPR, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
We are accepting new clients for Counseling & Life Coaching! We believe in the power of self-care and personal growth. Our therapy and life coaching services are specifically designed to support individuals and their families in their own journey of healing and self-discovery.​ Our practice combines therapists, life coaches, and students to provide overall holistic care. We are currently a virtual practice and we accept almost all insurance companies including Medicaid. Life coaching is not covered by insurance.
We are accepting new clients for Counseling & Life Coaching! We believe in the power of self-care and personal growth. Our therapy and life coaching services are specifically designed to support individuals and their families in their own journey of healing and self-discovery.​ Our practice combines therapists, life coaches, and students to provide overall holistic care. We are currently a virtual practice and we accept almost all insurance companies including Medicaid. Life coaching is not covered by insurance.
(571) 583-6188 View (571) 583-6188
Photo of Elena Acosta, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elena Acosta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients! - If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unmotivated, or just need a safe space to process the many obstacles of life, you've come to the right place. I believe as humans, we all ultimately want to be heard, understood, respected, and validated. My areas of specialization include working with individuals with anxiety, stress, co-dependency, life transitions, and relational trauma. As a Latina woman, I am sensitive to and have experience with a diverse demographic.
Currently accepting new clients! - If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unmotivated, or just need a safe space to process the many obstacles of life, you've come to the right place. I believe as humans, we all ultimately want to be heard, understood, respected, and validated. My areas of specialization include working with individuals with anxiety, stress, co-dependency, life transitions, and relational trauma. As a Latina woman, I am sensitive to and have experience with a diverse demographic.
(540) 698-5769 View (540) 698-5769
Photo of Peggy Anna Haun, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Anna Haun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My great passion is to bring healing to individuals who have experienced trauma and stress. I support clients—whether they are teens, adults, or families—in finding healthy self-perceptions and strengthening their relationships, so they can experience themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe.
My great passion is to bring healing to individuals who have experienced trauma and stress. I support clients—whether they are teens, adults, or families—in finding healthy self-perceptions and strengthening their relationships, so they can experience themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe.
(757) 859-0825 x600 View (757) 859-0825 x600
Photo of Alonna Donovan Makinson, MA, LPCC
Alonna Donovan Makinson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re sick of feeling stuck, sad and stressed, not getting enough sleep because you stay awake worrying. At the expense of your own needs, you give so much to others and feel pulled into different directions at once. You're not even sure if you know who you are anymore. Your adventurous spirit is calling you to take some bold leaps and make some giant changes, but the thought of doing so causes anxiety, and this holds you back. There’s no award for going it alone. Let’s do it together! I’m here to help you stay true to yourself, pursue your passions, and leap into the unknown with the knowing that it will be 100% worth it.
You’re sick of feeling stuck, sad and stressed, not getting enough sleep because you stay awake worrying. At the expense of your own needs, you give so much to others and feel pulled into different directions at once. You're not even sure if you know who you are anymore. Your adventurous spirit is calling you to take some bold leaps and make some giant changes, but the thought of doing so causes anxiety, and this holds you back. There’s no award for going it alone. Let’s do it together! I’m here to help you stay true to yourself, pursue your passions, and leap into the unknown with the knowing that it will be 100% worth it.
(571) 603-7619 View (571) 603-7619
Photo of Chasity Bilzing, MS
Chasity Bilzing
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling as a Resident in Counseling to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have earned my Masters in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from Walden University with a specialization in Military Culture. I have over 10+ years working with children, adolescents, and their families for the Department of Defense and for Social Services that has enabled me to gain experience from a diverse population that included working directly in the community with families with special needs.
Hi! I am approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling as a Resident in Counseling to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have earned my Masters in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from Walden University with a specialization in Military Culture. I have over 10+ years working with children, adolescents, and their families for the Department of Defense and for Social Services that has enabled me to gain experience from a diverse population that included working directly in the community with families with special needs.
(571) 901-1840 View (571) 901-1840
Photo of Ariel Meaney, LPC, CCTP, CSTIP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ariel Meaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CSTIP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello. I am an LPC in the state of VA who works with individuals, children/adolescents, and couples. I am a Marine Corps Veteran, so my true passion is to help my fellow Veterans and Military families within their therapeutic process. Whether this be through the individual aspect, through couples', or the adolescent needs of coping with the struggles of the Military lifestyle. I strive to help the Military family in any way possible. From having the hands-on experience of being Active Duty as well as currently being a Military spouse, I plan to help your family through your time of distress and turmoil.
Hello. I am an LPC in the state of VA who works with individuals, children/adolescents, and couples. I am a Marine Corps Veteran, so my true passion is to help my fellow Veterans and Military families within their therapeutic process. Whether this be through the individual aspect, through couples', or the adolescent needs of coping with the struggles of the Military lifestyle. I strive to help the Military family in any way possible. From having the hands-on experience of being Active Duty as well as currently being a Military spouse, I plan to help your family through your time of distress and turmoil.
(571) 688-5140 View (571) 688-5140
Photo of Doreen A. Boateng, MEd, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Doreen A. Boateng
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I understand that seeking therapy can be an intimidating and vulnerable process that is why I strive to help you navigate life's challenges with compassion, faith, and evidence-based support. As a therapist specializing in Christian counseling, faith-based therapy, and trauma-informed care, I understand the unique struggles that come with balancing faith and mental health. Whether you’re seeking healing from past or current traumas, facing relationship challenges, or struggling with self-confidence, I’m committed to walking alongside you on your journey to wholeness.
Welcome! I understand that seeking therapy can be an intimidating and vulnerable process that is why I strive to help you navigate life's challenges with compassion, faith, and evidence-based support. As a therapist specializing in Christian counseling, faith-based therapy, and trauma-informed care, I understand the unique struggles that come with balancing faith and mental health. Whether you’re seeking healing from past or current traumas, facing relationship challenges, or struggling with self-confidence, I’m committed to walking alongside you on your journey to wholeness.
(301) 246-8094 View (301) 246-8094
Photo of Tamika M Archer - Be, Period - A Wellness Co., LPC-R, MA, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Be, Period - A Wellness Co.
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, treating individuals, couples, family & group therapy. I specialize in expressive therapy for children and adolescents. I am experienced in applying object-relational, CBT, acceptance and commitment, solution focused, and various therapeutic approaches to assist the client in reaching their goals. I have worked with a variety of mental health conditions including ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Post Traumatic Stress, depression, and more. I'm a graduate of Marymount University and a PhD candidate.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, treating individuals, couples, family & group therapy. I specialize in expressive therapy for children and adolescents. I am experienced in applying object-relational, CBT, acceptance and commitment, solution focused, and various therapeutic approaches to assist the client in reaching their goals. I have worked with a variety of mental health conditions including ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Post Traumatic Stress, depression, and more. I'm a graduate of Marymount University and a PhD candidate.
(571) 601-3156 View (571) 601-3156
Photo of Teresa Cooper, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have over 15 years experience working with different populations in the mental health field. My experience includes working with adolescents, adults, military, and individuals struggling with substance abuse. I have a passion for mental health and assisting people explore their potential. I look forward to connecting with you to support and empower you.
I have over 15 years experience working with different populations in the mental health field. My experience includes working with adolescents, adults, military, and individuals struggling with substance abuse. I have a passion for mental health and assisting people explore their potential. I look forward to connecting with you to support and empower you.
(540) 787-2954 View (540) 787-2954
Photo of DeLionel Bavon Meadows - Prince William Family Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional
Prince William Family Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am is a student at Liberty University studying in the Master of Arts program for a Licensed Professional Counselor. I retired from the military after serving for 30 years and now dedicated to serving his community in battling mental health concerns. I work with all populations including, children, elders, and families. My education and life experiences are tools that I use in the therapeutic process. My goal is to help solve some of the challenging situations in your life to be viewed clearer, making your response to the challenge more effective.
I am is a student at Liberty University studying in the Master of Arts program for a Licensed Professional Counselor. I retired from the military after serving for 30 years and now dedicated to serving his community in battling mental health concerns. I work with all populations including, children, elders, and families. My education and life experiences are tools that I use in the therapeutic process. My goal is to help solve some of the challenging situations in your life to be viewed clearer, making your response to the challenge more effective.
(732) 582-5365 View (732) 582-5365
Photo of Ida Downey, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ida Downey
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Congratulations on taking the first and often the hardest step by reaching out for help. I will do my best to support you during this challenging time in your life. I have over 20 plus years of clinical experience working with couples, families, and individuals on relationship issues, family conflict, trauma and abuse, addiction, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and women’s issues. Counseling is a process by which we work together to identify and work on any issues you bring to our sessions.
Congratulations on taking the first and often the hardest step by reaching out for help. I will do my best to support you during this challenging time in your life. I have over 20 plus years of clinical experience working with couples, families, and individuals on relationship issues, family conflict, trauma and abuse, addiction, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and women’s issues. Counseling is a process by which we work together to identify and work on any issues you bring to our sessions.
(540) 787-2966 View (540) 787-2966
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22026

20+

Average cost per session

$129

Therapists in 22026 who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
74% Stress
70% Self Esteem
67% Family Conflict
63% Relationship Issues
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
78% Aetna
78% Anthem

How Therapists in 22026 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 22026?

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.