Therapists in 34609

Photo of Stephen Pasquale, Pastoral Counselor, BCCC
Stephen Pasquale
Pastoral Counselor, BCCC
3 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34609
You don't have to face this alone. For the late-night questions you're not sure how to ask, for the gnawing feeling that something isn't working that you can't quite name, for the exhaustion that rest doesn't seem to fix, there is hope. I walk with people through their darkest moments, helping them find hope, healing, and a meaningful way forward. Providing compassionate, evidence-based care, grounded in Biblical faith, I take a collaborative approach that draws on the Townsend Growth Model for individuals and the Gottman Method for couples, both rooted in decades of research.
You don't have to face this alone. For the late-night questions you're not sure how to ask, for the gnawing feeling that something isn't working that you can't quite name, for the exhaustion that rest doesn't seem to fix, there is hope. I walk with people through their darkest moments, helping them find hope, healing, and a meaningful way forward. Providing compassionate, evidence-based care, grounded in Biblical faith, I take a collaborative approach that draws on the Townsend Growth Model for individuals and the Gottman Method for couples, both rooted in decades of research.
(813) 296-5795 View (813) 296-5795
Photo of Amber Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Amber Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Sometimes life feels like a puzzle with pieces that just won’t fit. You can expect an approach to therapy that is rooted in compassion, patience, and understanding.This is your space to slow down, breathe, and take the time you need to heal. Together, we will work piece by piece, until all the pieces fit, helping you find balance, clarity, and a renewed sense of peace! -Unique Abilities Scholarship accepted- Click on my website listed below to schedule your first session.
Sometimes life feels like a puzzle with pieces that just won’t fit. You can expect an approach to therapy that is rooted in compassion, patience, and understanding.This is your space to slow down, breathe, and take the time you need to heal. Together, we will work piece by piece, until all the pieces fit, helping you find balance, clarity, and a renewed sense of peace! -Unique Abilities Scholarship accepted- Click on my website listed below to schedule your first session.
(352) 268-8770 View (352) 268-8770
Photo of Dawn Mort, Counselor, LMHC
Dawn Mort
Counselor, LMHC
Spring Hill, FL 34609
I work with individuals who are ready to find more balance in their lives, reduce anxiety, and heal from past experiences that continue to affect them today. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by stress and trauma. My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can slow down, breathe, and begin to make sense of what you’re carrying.
I work with individuals who are ready to find more balance in their lives, reduce anxiety, and heal from past experiences that continue to affect them today. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by stress and trauma. My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can slow down, breathe, and begin to make sense of what you’re carrying.
(352) 632-7463 View (352) 632-7463
Photo of Dory Richards, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Dory Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Dory creates a space where people can exhale. Her presence is steady, warm, and deeply attuned - the kind that helps you feel seen rather than evaluated. She works with individuals, couples, and families who are ready to strengthen their sense of self, repair disconnection, and communicate in ways that actually bring them closer. Her areas of focus include rebuilding self-worth, resolving relationship conflict, developing confident parenting strategies, navigating life transitions, managing anxiety, and establishing boundaries that protect peace instead of creating distance.
Dory creates a space where people can exhale. Her presence is steady, warm, and deeply attuned - the kind that helps you feel seen rather than evaluated. She works with individuals, couples, and families who are ready to strengthen their sense of self, repair disconnection, and communicate in ways that actually bring them closer. Her areas of focus include rebuilding self-worth, resolving relationship conflict, developing confident parenting strategies, navigating life transitions, managing anxiety, and establishing boundaries that protect peace instead of creating distance.
(352) 578-2279 View (352) 578-2279
Photo of Matt Mulock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Matt Mulock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it takes courage to reach out for support. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in helping teens and adults navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship struggles. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I believe that healing begins in a safe and supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it takes courage to reach out for support. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in helping teens and adults navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship struggles. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I believe that healing begins in a safe and supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood.
(352) 752-9632 View (352) 752-9632
Photo of Kathryn Girdler, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Kathryn Girdler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
3 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Kathryn is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSWI) dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space where clients can show up authentically and explore their healing journey. She received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Florida in 2024 with an emphasis on mental health counseling. She works collaboratively with each individual to help them meet their unique goals, and she brings compassion, validation, and curiosity to every session.
Kathryn is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSWI) dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space where clients can show up authentically and explore their healing journey. She received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Florida in 2024 with an emphasis on mental health counseling. She works collaboratively with each individual to help them meet their unique goals, and she brings compassion, validation, and curiosity to every session.
(352) 736-8711 View (352) 736-8711
Photo of Donald H Stevens, Pre-Licensed Professional
Donald H Stevens
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34609
We all face seasons that challenge our sense of balance and purpose. Reaching out is a brave way of saying you’re ready to grow, heal, and live more fully. Many people come to counseling when they’re navigating stress, relationship challenges, caregiver responsibilities, or the emotional strain of living with or caring for someone facing addiction. I believe healing begins in a safe, compassionate space where you can pause, reflect, and start moving toward greater clarity and confidence. This foundation of trust allows us to explore your story, uncover what’s getting in the way, and shape a path forward that feels authentic to you.
We all face seasons that challenge our sense of balance and purpose. Reaching out is a brave way of saying you’re ready to grow, heal, and live more fully. Many people come to counseling when they’re navigating stress, relationship challenges, caregiver responsibilities, or the emotional strain of living with or caring for someone facing addiction. I believe healing begins in a safe, compassionate space where you can pause, reflect, and start moving toward greater clarity and confidence. This foundation of trust allows us to explore your story, uncover what’s getting in the way, and shape a path forward that feels authentic to you.
(352) 632-1323 View (352) 632-1323
Photo of Daryl Lynn Cox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Daryl Lynn Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Welcome! I'm Daryl Lynn Cox, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping individuals, couples, and families find clarity, healing, and balance. As a military spouse, mother, and former ombudsman, I understand the unique challenges faced by veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals. My lived experience and clinical training allow me to offer meaningful, informed support to veterans, first responders, and nurses.
Welcome! I'm Daryl Lynn Cox, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping individuals, couples, and families find clarity, healing, and balance. As a military spouse, mother, and former ombudsman, I understand the unique challenges faced by veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals. My lived experience and clinical training allow me to offer meaningful, informed support to veterans, first responders, and nurses.
(352) 605-0242 View (352) 605-0242
Photo of Susanne Ohihoin, PhD, BCBA
Susanne Ohihoin
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Therapy & Coaching for Kids, Teens, and Parents Personalized & Compassionate. I offer therapy and coaching grounded in science and delivered with heart—tailored for neurodivergent children, teens, and the parents who support them. My work focuses on helping young people navigate autism, ADHD, anxiety, emotional regulation, and social challenges with confidence and clarity. Using evidence-based methods—including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and play-based strategies—I help children and teens build emotional resilience, meaningful connections, and tools
Therapy & Coaching for Kids, Teens, and Parents Personalized & Compassionate. I offer therapy and coaching grounded in science and delivered with heart—tailored for neurodivergent children, teens, and the parents who support them. My work focuses on helping young people navigate autism, ADHD, anxiety, emotional regulation, and social challenges with confidence and clarity. Using evidence-based methods—including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and play-based strategies—I help children and teens build emotional resilience, meaningful connections, and tools
(727) 513-5604 View (727) 513-5604
Photo of Kristi Michelle Harrin - Achieve Wellness Group, LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Achieve Wellness Group, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Spring Hill, FL 34609
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist trained to work with individuals throughout the lifespan. I believe that each individual is unique and special and therefore it is important to develop an individualized treatment plan which takes into account the many different facets of a person's life.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist trained to work with individuals throughout the lifespan. I believe that each individual is unique and special and therefore it is important to develop an individualized treatment plan which takes into account the many different facets of a person's life.
(888) 744-1064 View (888) 744-1064
Photo of Jennifer Shook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Shook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Spring Hill, FL 34609
If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety, big emotions, or everyday stress, it can be hard to know how to help. You might see shutdowns, overwhelm, school stress, or reactions that feel bigger than the moment. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Iowa and Florida offering telehealth in both states. As a former school social worker, I understand how important it is for kids to feel safe and understood. I create a calm space where they can go at their own pace and build coping skills and confidence.
If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety, big emotions, or everyday stress, it can be hard to know how to help. You might see shutdowns, overwhelm, school stress, or reactions that feel bigger than the moment. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Iowa and Florida offering telehealth in both states. As a former school social worker, I understand how important it is for kids to feel safe and understood. I create a calm space where they can go at their own pace and build coping skills and confidence.
(319) 264-1236 View (319) 264-1236
Photo of Brenda B Richter, Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Brenda B Richter
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Serves Area
I have over 30 years of experience working with families and youth at risk including residential, home visits and office settings. I offer individual, family and couples counselling covering a wide variety of mental health issues. Anger management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, parenting, relationship issues and phase of life issues are the most common themes that I deal with. I can tailor sessions to individual needs, work with all age groups and am available by appointment. I have a private pay office in Inverness.
I have over 30 years of experience working with families and youth at risk including residential, home visits and office settings. I offer individual, family and couples counselling covering a wide variety of mental health issues. Anger management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, parenting, relationship issues and phase of life issues are the most common themes that I deal with. I can tailor sessions to individual needs, work with all age groups and am available by appointment. I have a private pay office in Inverness.
(352) 464-8745 View (352) 464-8745
Photo of Erin Cash - Envisioning Hope Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Envisioning Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Serves Area
Hi! My name is Erin. I am a Licensed Therapist with 12 years of experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief & loss, pregnancy, prenatal, postnatal, parenting, children issues, self esteem and identity, life limiting illnesses, and overall life struggles. Starting my own private practice to help others in need has always been a life-long passion. During these trying times, and need for constant adjustment to society, I feel there is no better time to offer individualized therapy that focuses on optimizing overall mental health and well-being. Seeking therapy is a big first step.
Hi! My name is Erin. I am a Licensed Therapist with 12 years of experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief & loss, pregnancy, prenatal, postnatal, parenting, children issues, self esteem and identity, life limiting illnesses, and overall life struggles. Starting my own private practice to help others in need has always been a life-long passion. During these trying times, and need for constant adjustment to society, I feel there is no better time to offer individualized therapy that focuses on optimizing overall mental health and well-being. Seeking therapy is a big first step.
(352) 660-8803 View (352) 660-8803
Photo of Maura McCusker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Maura McCusker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Serves Area
An ideal client, I envision someone who recognizes the importance of mental health and seeks support willingly. This individual might be grappling with issues such as anxiety, stress, or depression, acknowledging the impact these challenges have on their overall well-being. Their needs revolve around building coping mechanisms, enhancing emotional resilience, and fostering self-awareness. Goals may include developing healthier thought patterns, improving interpersonal relationships, and achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life. My ideal client is motivated by a genuine desire for personal growth and therapeutic interventions.
An ideal client, I envision someone who recognizes the importance of mental health and seeks support willingly. This individual might be grappling with issues such as anxiety, stress, or depression, acknowledging the impact these challenges have on their overall well-being. Their needs revolve around building coping mechanisms, enhancing emotional resilience, and fostering self-awareness. Goals may include developing healthier thought patterns, improving interpersonal relationships, and achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life. My ideal client is motivated by a genuine desire for personal growth and therapeutic interventions.
(321) 353-6310 View (321) 353-6310
Photo of John Choquette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
John Choquette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Clients! I have over 19 years of experience as an Outpatient Therapist. I accept many health insurance plans. I Specialize in working with Adults, teens, and tweens treating Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management difficulties, Grief and Loss Issues, Addictions and Dual-Diagnosis. I make it a priority to schedule new clients as soon as possible.
Now Accepting New Clients! I have over 19 years of experience as an Outpatient Therapist. I accept many health insurance plans. I Specialize in working with Adults, teens, and tweens treating Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management difficulties, Grief and Loss Issues, Addictions and Dual-Diagnosis. I make it a priority to schedule new clients as soon as possible.
(352) 618-3814 View (352) 618-3814
Photo of Luca Bosurgi, DHyp, MBSCH, CH
Luca Bosurgi
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You may feel anxious, on edge, or unsettled inside — even though to everyone around you, you seem thoughtful, capable, and self-aware. Maybe the same patterns keep repeating in your relationships, or you lean more than you'd like on reassurance and others' approval to feel okay. You may have worked on yourself and gained real insight, yet still feel stuck in the same place. What you want isn't to be "fixed." You want to feel calmer and steadier inside, more confident, and able to meet life and relationships with clarity and self-trust. As a Master Hypnotist and Mind Fitness Coach, I help people get t
You may feel anxious, on edge, or unsettled inside — even though to everyone around you, you seem thoughtful, capable, and self-aware. Maybe the same patterns keep repeating in your relationships, or you lean more than you'd like on reassurance and others' approval to feel okay. You may have worked on yourself and gained real insight, yet still feel stuck in the same place. What you want isn't to be "fixed." You want to feel calmer and steadier inside, more confident, and able to meet life and relationships with clarity and self-trust. As a Master Hypnotist and Mind Fitness Coach, I help people get t
(352) 839-4199 View (352) 839-4199
Photo of Alyssa Pearl Stead, MS, LMHC
Alyssa Pearl Stead
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help clients process stressors, trauma, grief, and handle various mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I assist clients with addressing a lack of motivation, low self-esteem, and building confidence. I ensure that clients feel comfortable sharing their personal thoughts and feelings in session, in a safe environment that is judgment-free and supportive. I work with my clients to focus on their needs, values, and goals. It can be challenging to take the next step in building a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am here to support my clients through each step of the journey.
I help clients process stressors, trauma, grief, and handle various mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I assist clients with addressing a lack of motivation, low self-esteem, and building confidence. I ensure that clients feel comfortable sharing their personal thoughts and feelings in session, in a safe environment that is judgment-free and supportive. I work with my clients to focus on their needs, values, and goals. It can be challenging to take the next step in building a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am here to support my clients through each step of the journey.
(727) 349-5806 View (727) 349-5806
Photo of Nika Rios, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Nika Rios
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Serves Area
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, relationship challenges, and chronic relapse. Many clients feel stuck in unhealthy patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or unsure how to move forward. Together, we identify barriers to change, build healthier coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and create practical tools that support lasting growth, recovery, and overall well-being.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, relationship challenges, and chronic relapse. Many clients feel stuck in unhealthy patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or unsure how to move forward. Together, we identify barriers to change, build healthier coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and create practical tools that support lasting growth, recovery, and overall well-being.
(727) 746-5017 View (727) 746-5017
Photo of Kaitlyn Berleth, Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Kaitlyn Berleth
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, QS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to therapy begins with the belief that healing is possible and that connection is the foundation of change. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Qualified Supervisor for Registered Mental Health Counselor Interns and Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Interns. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), evidence-based treatments for complex trauma and other painful experiences.
My approach to therapy begins with the belief that healing is possible and that connection is the foundation of change. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Qualified Supervisor for Registered Mental Health Counselor Interns and Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Interns. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), evidence-based treatments for complex trauma and other painful experiences.
(352) 247-2153 View (352) 247-2153
Photo of Jennifer Fuentes Robison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jennifer Fuentes Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34609
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a major life change and unsure how to move forward? Whether it’s a divorce, the loss of a loved one, or adjusting to a new role in the family, these transitions can bring anxiety, depression, and a sense of losing control. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take charge of their situation and reduce the fear that comes with uncertainty. If you're motivated for solution-focused care to regain balance and clarity, I’m here to help you navigate this difficult time with confidence and a clear path forward.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a major life change and unsure how to move forward? Whether it’s a divorce, the loss of a loved one, or adjusting to a new role in the family, these transitions can bring anxiety, depression, and a sense of losing control. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take charge of their situation and reduce the fear that comes with uncertainty. If you're motivated for solution-focused care to regain balance and clarity, I’m here to help you navigate this difficult time with confidence and a clear path forward.
(352) 897-8454 View (352) 897-8454

See more therapy options for 34609

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34609

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 34609 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
89% Social Anxiety
89% Health Anxiety
89% Driving Anxiety
81% Depression
73% Grief
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
70% Optum

How Therapists in 34609 see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34609?

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.