Therapists in 35055

Photo of Holly Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
Holly Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
2 Endorsed
Cullman, AL 35055
Hello there! Are you struggling to keep your marriage on track? Or perhaps you and your partner are facing some issues that you can't seem to resolve on your own? With almost 18 years of marriage experience, I understand the highs and lows that come with being in a long-term relationship. Through my unique calling and education, I'm here to help you and your partner on your journey towards healing and strengthening your marriage.
Hello there! Are you struggling to keep your marriage on track? Or perhaps you and your partner are facing some issues that you can't seem to resolve on your own? With almost 18 years of marriage experience, I understand the highs and lows that come with being in a long-term relationship. Through my unique calling and education, I'm here to help you and your partner on your journey towards healing and strengthening your marriage.
(256) 563-5148 View (256) 563-5148
Photo of Kesha Smotherman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Kesha Smotherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Cullman, AL 35055
I am licensed in the state of Tennessee and Alabama and currently accepting new clients. I have two office spaces available for in person meetings and the ability to meet virtually. I work well with children, teens, and adults. I have extensive history and training to work with individuals who have sexual behavioral problems, trauma histories, depression, anxiety, adhd, anger, addiction and relationship issues. I am trained to treat using EMDR, CBT, DBT, MRT, and TF-CBT. I believe that everyone has the capacity and ability to change and I look forward to speaking with you about how I may be able to assist you and your loved ones.
I am licensed in the state of Tennessee and Alabama and currently accepting new clients. I have two office spaces available for in person meetings and the ability to meet virtually. I work well with children, teens, and adults. I have extensive history and training to work with individuals who have sexual behavioral problems, trauma histories, depression, anxiety, adhd, anger, addiction and relationship issues. I am trained to treat using EMDR, CBT, DBT, MRT, and TF-CBT. I believe that everyone has the capacity and ability to change and I look forward to speaking with you about how I may be able to assist you and your loved ones.
(931) 400-8486 View (931) 400-8486
Photo of Sarah W Brickell - Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, RPT-S, LPC-S
Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, RPT-S, LPC-S
Cullman, AL 35055
At Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, we have a variety of therapists to help. We have locations in Cullman, Huntsville, Oneonta, Cropwell, and Trussville. I am only available in Cullman. We specialize in working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. We also serve adults. Some therapists can only accept pediatric Medicaid so please call to check.
At Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, we have a variety of therapists to help. We have locations in Cullman, Huntsville, Oneonta, Cropwell, and Trussville. I am only available in Cullman. We specialize in working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. We also serve adults. Some therapists can only accept pediatric Medicaid so please call to check.
(256) 255-4550 View (256) 255-4550
Photo of Sarah Daily - Soar Counseling & Consulting LLC, Counselor, LPCS
Soar Counseling & Consulting LLC
Counselor, LPCS
4 Endorsed
Cullman, AL 35055
Welcome to Soar. We specialize in helping individuals overcome anxiety, trauma, depression, and navigate life transitions. Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, daily stress, or finding your path, our compassionate therapists offer a safe space for healing and growth. We understand that therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. We offer sliding scale options based on income and work with your insurance provider to maximize your coverage. Plus, you can choose in-office or virtual sessions to fit your schedule. Learn more about our therapist and schedule an appointment today.
Welcome to Soar. We specialize in helping individuals overcome anxiety, trauma, depression, and navigate life transitions. Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, daily stress, or finding your path, our compassionate therapists offer a safe space for healing and growth. We understand that therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. We offer sliding scale options based on income and work with your insurance provider to maximize your coverage. Plus, you can choose in-office or virtual sessions to fit your schedule. Learn more about our therapist and schedule an appointment today.
(256) 814-7921 View (256) 814-7921
Photo of Holly Durhan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Holly Durhan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Cullman, AL 35055
We've all heard the expression life is a journey.  But what about when the journey is confusing & complicated?  I believe counseling is like a map or a compass- guidance to help us find our way.  I’d like to help you find your way forward.  I use a blend of counseling strategies including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for an effective approach to working through and healing life's challenging seasons. I also believe faith can be an integral part of healing & for those that choose to do so, I combine faith based practices as well.
We've all heard the expression life is a journey.  But what about when the journey is confusing & complicated?  I believe counseling is like a map or a compass- guidance to help us find our way.  I’d like to help you find your way forward.  I use a blend of counseling strategies including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for an effective approach to working through and healing life's challenging seasons. I also believe faith can be an integral part of healing & for those that choose to do so, I combine faith based practices as well.
(205) 927-6977 View (205) 927-6977
Photo of Patti Bearden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Patti Bearden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Cullman, AL 35055
My heart is for individuals and families who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or hurt by the difficulties of life. I seek to serve clients facing anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, parenting pressures, narcissistic abuse, and other life challenges. As a therapist, I recognize there are so many people searching for understanding, healing, and practical tools to manage their emotions, improve relationships, and regain confidence. They desire to feel calmer, stronger, and more connected, and they want hope that change is possible. I believe hope is possible, healing can happen, and life can be better.
My heart is for individuals and families who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or hurt by the difficulties of life. I seek to serve clients facing anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, parenting pressures, narcissistic abuse, and other life challenges. As a therapist, I recognize there are so many people searching for understanding, healing, and practical tools to manage their emotions, improve relationships, and regain confidence. They desire to feel calmer, stronger, and more connected, and they want hope that change is possible. I believe hope is possible, healing can happen, and life can be better.
(256) 814-7294 View (256) 814-7294
Photo of Leigh Belcher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Leigh Belcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Cullman, AL 35055
My greatest desire is that each of my clients learn through the process of therapy how to walk in freedom. Freedom from depression, anxiety and present and past issues. I believe that we are a product of our past but that healing begins when we explore that past and begin to write a new story, a healing narrative. It is my belief that a productive therapeuitc relationship begins by providing a safe place, free of judgement and full of grace for the process and ourselves.
My greatest desire is that each of my clients learn through the process of therapy how to walk in freedom. Freedom from depression, anxiety and present and past issues. I believe that we are a product of our past but that healing begins when we explore that past and begin to write a new story, a healing narrative. It is my belief that a productive therapeuitc relationship begins by providing a safe place, free of judgement and full of grace for the process and ourselves.
(256) 297-1003 View (256) 297-1003
Photo of Melanie Campbell Boatright, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, SAP, MAC
Melanie Campbell Boatright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, SAP, MAC
Cullman, AL 35055
At TurnAround Counseling Services (TCS) we understand that sometimes you find yourself on an unfamiliar path. Whether it’s because you took a wrong turn or had to detour because of circumstances beyond your control, it still leaves you feeling lost, uncertain, and in unfamiliar territory. While we haven’t traveled every road, we do have several road-maps available to help you find your way. Using your sense of direction and our navigation skills, we can help you get back on track whether you want to go back to where you were, choose a totally new destination, or compromise somewhere in-between.
At TurnAround Counseling Services (TCS) we understand that sometimes you find yourself on an unfamiliar path. Whether it’s because you took a wrong turn or had to detour because of circumstances beyond your control, it still leaves you feeling lost, uncertain, and in unfamiliar territory. While we haven’t traveled every road, we do have several road-maps available to help you find your way. Using your sense of direction and our navigation skills, we can help you get back on track whether you want to go back to where you were, choose a totally new destination, or compromise somewhere in-between.
(256) 540-2732 View (256) 540-2732
Photo of Greg Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Greg Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide counseling/psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life who are facing many challenges in their lives, are dealing with difficult situations, or have mental health issues they would like to address. I have experience working with clients who have a wide range of mental health issues, relationship difficulties, difficulty coping with change, and daily stressors. I am confident that together, we can accomplish the change you seek. Counseling/psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the client and therapist. We each have a vital part in this process.
I provide counseling/psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life who are facing many challenges in their lives, are dealing with difficult situations, or have mental health issues they would like to address. I have experience working with clients who have a wide range of mental health issues, relationship difficulties, difficulty coping with change, and daily stressors. I am confident that together, we can accomplish the change you seek. Counseling/psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the client and therapist. We each have a vital part in this process.
(256) 914-4230 View (256) 914-4230
Photo of Elizabeth Gervais, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA, MEd
Elizabeth Gervais
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA, MEd
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a neurodivergent therapist, I’m passionate about working with adults, adolescents, and children to create adaptive relational skills that allow them to have improved interpersonal relationships in various areas of their lives. My approach includes working with couples, families, and individuals to help create opportunities for improved connection. Using a neuroaffirmative approach, my goal is to help those struggling with various elements of neurodiversity or healing from traumatic events to better understand how it impacts their functioning and gain insight into how to adjust or adapt to various challenges life throws at them.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I’m passionate about working with adults, adolescents, and children to create adaptive relational skills that allow them to have improved interpersonal relationships in various areas of their lives. My approach includes working with couples, families, and individuals to help create opportunities for improved connection. Using a neuroaffirmative approach, my goal is to help those struggling with various elements of neurodiversity or healing from traumatic events to better understand how it impacts their functioning and gain insight into how to adjust or adapt to various challenges life throws at them.
(256) 203-3939 View (256) 203-3939
Photo of Eagle Counseling - Eagle Consulting/Counseling Division, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW, PhD
Eagle Consulting/Counseling Division
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW, PhD
Serves Area
You can find hope here. We strive to provide each person an experience of support, inspiration, motivation, and hope through proven counseling techniques. This is a safe place to tell your story and begin writing a new chapter. We listen to understand and help guide you into a new beginning. Has life just become exhausting? Are you tired of feeling alone? Do you want to find some peace and meaning?
You can find hope here. We strive to provide each person an experience of support, inspiration, motivation, and hope through proven counseling techniques. This is a safe place to tell your story and begin writing a new chapter. We listen to understand and help guide you into a new beginning. Has life just become exhausting? Are you tired of feeling alone? Do you want to find some peace and meaning?
(256) 693-8476 View (256) 693-8476
Photo of Katelyn C Dooley, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katelyn C Dooley
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping others heal and move one step forward. I love watching the light start to shimmer back into their eyes. I believe life is too short to carry the pain with you. When you partner with someone to work through that pain, they don’t take it away, they help you lay it down. The current lanes I lean into are grief/loss, emotional/behavior, Postpartum, PTSD/Trauma/Crisis, and marriage/family/Christian counseling.
I am passionate about helping others heal and move one step forward. I love watching the light start to shimmer back into their eyes. I believe life is too short to carry the pain with you. When you partner with someone to work through that pain, they don’t take it away, they help you lay it down. The current lanes I lean into are grief/loss, emotional/behavior, Postpartum, PTSD/Trauma/Crisis, and marriage/family/Christian counseling.
(256) 921-3726 View (256) 921-3726
Photo of Ory Hampton, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Ory Hampton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
No one should have to walk through life alone. The opportunity to walk with people through seasons of challenge, seasons of celebration, and everything in between is one of the greatest honors a person can trust you with. And along the way, the opportunity to truly examine life and develop the skills and knowledge to make the most of each day may just give you the opportunity to live the life you’ve always dreamed of. If any of this describes what you are experiencing in this season, I would love to have the honor of walking with you on the journey.
No one should have to walk through life alone. The opportunity to walk with people through seasons of challenge, seasons of celebration, and everything in between is one of the greatest honors a person can trust you with. And along the way, the opportunity to truly examine life and develop the skills and knowledge to make the most of each day may just give you the opportunity to live the life you’ve always dreamed of. If any of this describes what you are experiencing in this season, I would love to have the honor of walking with you on the journey.
(256) 800-6123 View (256) 800-6123
Photo of Brandy Holmes - Family Support Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, RPT-S, PCIT
Family Support Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, RPT-S, PCIT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Parenting is hard work and children don't come with instructions! As a parent we often worry about our children's well-being and we want to do the best for our children. At the same time we can feel overwhelmed especially if our children have experienced abuse, are acting out, experiencing adjustment to a divorce or other family changes, making bad choices, or seem sad and worried. Sometimes we don't know where to turn or what to do next. You may start to feel like you've tried everything with no results. I, and my licensed associate therapists, specialize in these and other issues.
Parenting is hard work and children don't come with instructions! As a parent we often worry about our children's well-being and we want to do the best for our children. At the same time we can feel overwhelmed especially if our children have experienced abuse, are acting out, experiencing adjustment to a divorce or other family changes, making bad choices, or seem sad and worried. Sometimes we don't know where to turn or what to do next. You may start to feel like you've tried everything with no results. I, and my licensed associate therapists, specialize in these and other issues.
(256) 588-4726 View (256) 588-4726
Photo of Kristin Bryan, Counselor, ALC, SBD, HBCE
Kristin Bryan
Counselor, ALC, SBD, HBCE
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is complicated—so is healing and growth—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I work with individuals and couples who are facing grief, trauma, relational struggles, or simply feeling stuck. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel safe, connected, and empowered to move forward. I draw from research-backed methods rooted in trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, and attachment theory—combining structured tools with compassionate support to help you not just process the past but build resilience for your present and future. I am here to help you reconnect with yourself and those you love.
Life is complicated—so is healing and growth—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I work with individuals and couples who are facing grief, trauma, relational struggles, or simply feeling stuck. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel safe, connected, and empowered to move forward. I draw from research-backed methods rooted in trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, and attachment theory—combining structured tools with compassionate support to help you not just process the past but build resilience for your present and future. I am here to help you reconnect with yourself and those you love.
(205) 964-7640 View (205) 964-7640
Photo of Cameron Meredith Bishop, Counselor, LMSW, MPH
Cameron Meredith Bishop
Counselor, LMSW, MPH
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life today can be stressful, even for the strongest of us. Do you feel overwhelmed by daily tasks? Do you wonder if it will ever get better? Are you stuck reliving traumas of the past, wondering how to proceed? Do you want to be able to access the inner strength you possess to find new ways to understand, cope, and live a more positive life? If so, then take the first step and reach out for help. You are not meant to fight your battles alone - and that is where I come in.
Life today can be stressful, even for the strongest of us. Do you feel overwhelmed by daily tasks? Do you wonder if it will ever get better? Are you stuck reliving traumas of the past, wondering how to proceed? Do you want to be able to access the inner strength you possess to find new ways to understand, cope, and live a more positive life? If so, then take the first step and reach out for help. You are not meant to fight your battles alone - and that is where I come in.
(205) 740-1338 View (205) 740-1338
Photo of Heather Story Lawson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC-S, NCC, CCATP
Heather Story Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC-S, NCC, CCATP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
The storms of life can be difficult to withstand at times. You don't have to go through them alone. Hi, I’m Heather Lawson owner of Redwood Counseling, located inside The Healing Grove in Hartselle, AL. I am a licensed professional counselor with over twelve years of experience. Whether it’s a mood disorder, trauma, marital or family issues, I am here to help. Together, we will identify and access your strengths and values, collaborate on solutions, and strengthen your resilience by providing you with new skills to help you grow through and heal from the difficult moments in life.
The storms of life can be difficult to withstand at times. You don't have to go through them alone. Hi, I’m Heather Lawson owner of Redwood Counseling, located inside The Healing Grove in Hartselle, AL. I am a licensed professional counselor with over twelve years of experience. Whether it’s a mood disorder, trauma, marital or family issues, I am here to help. Together, we will identify and access your strengths and values, collaborate on solutions, and strengthen your resilience by providing you with new skills to help you grow through and heal from the difficult moments in life.
(256) 507-9532 View (256) 507-9532
Photo of Caroline Bishop, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Caroline Bishop
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be tough to face and you don't have to do it alone. I believe in meeting you where you are in your journey and walking with you through the tough seasons. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults. Let's work together on your ADHD, anxiety, coping skills, communication skills, depression, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, self-care, self-esteem, and work-life balance. It's time to tackle the tough season.
Life can be tough to face and you don't have to do it alone. I believe in meeting you where you are in your journey and walking with you through the tough seasons. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults. Let's work together on your ADHD, anxiety, coping skills, communication skills, depression, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, self-care, self-esteem, and work-life balance. It's time to tackle the tough season.
(256) 908-8705 View (256) 908-8705
Photo of Candice Lawhorn, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Candice Lawhorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm here to help you overcome any obstacle and live your best life. I'll listen, guide, and learn alongside you, and provide the support you need to heal past trauma, resolve current problems, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. I see all clients as individuals, and my methods are built on compassion and a genuine desire to help.
I'm here to help you overcome any obstacle and live your best life. I'll listen, guide, and learn alongside you, and provide the support you need to heal past trauma, resolve current problems, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. I see all clients as individuals, and my methods are built on compassion and a genuine desire to help.
(205) 293-0969 View (205) 293-0969
Photo of Rachel Mae Fondren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Rachel Mae Fondren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you unsure where to start? Do you have or think you have OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, or trauma? You may find yourself overthinking, battling negative thoughts, or carrying burdens from your past that make it hard to move forward. If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to face it alone.
Are you unsure where to start? Do you have or think you have OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, or trauma? You may find yourself overthinking, battling negative thoughts, or carrying burdens from your past that make it hard to move forward. If this sounds familiar, you don’t have to face it alone.
(270) 214-2727 View (270) 214-2727

See more therapy options for 35055

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 35055

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 35055 who prioritize treating:

79% Anxiety
75% Depression
71% Coping Skills
61% Relationship Issues
57% Family Conflict
54% Self Esteem
54% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
55% Aetna

How Therapists in 35055 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 35055?

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.