Therapists in 54455

Photo of Heather Doescher Hurd - Hurd Counseling and Educational Psychology, Psychologist, PhD
Hurd Counseling and Educational Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Dr. Hurd specializes in comprehensive assessments for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, Giftedness, and Mental Health Disorders for all ages. Assessment results will clarify diagnoses and provide critical next steps. Dr. Hurd is an expert in mental health, developmental disabilities, learning, ADHD and Autism. This ensures that the comprehensive evaluation will consider each of these areas and help that person to improve their symptoms and succeed in life.
Dr. Hurd specializes in comprehensive assessments for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, Giftedness, and Mental Health Disorders for all ages. Assessment results will clarify diagnoses and provide critical next steps. Dr. Hurd is an expert in mental health, developmental disabilities, learning, ADHD and Autism. This ensures that the comprehensive evaluation will consider each of these areas and help that person to improve their symptoms and succeed in life.
(715) 202-5131 View (715) 202-5131
Photo of Nicki Woitula, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Nicki Woitula
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Serves Area
When anxiety, trauma, or executive functioning challenges take over, life can start to feel exhausting and unmanageable. I work with adults, children, and teens who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly trying to keep up—whether that shows up as worry, emotional outbursts, shutdown, difficulty focusing, or trouble following through on daily tasks. Therapy can help make sense of these patterns and create real relief.
When anxiety, trauma, or executive functioning challenges take over, life can start to feel exhausting and unmanageable. I work with adults, children, and teens who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly trying to keep up—whether that shows up as worry, emotional outbursts, shutdown, difficulty focusing, or trouble following through on daily tasks. Therapy can help make sense of these patterns and create real relief.
(715) 226-6144 View (715) 226-6144
Photo of Kaelee Freudigmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kaelee Freudigmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many people carry the weight of self-doubt, shame, and disconnection from their authentic selves. I’m passionate about helping people quiet their inner critic, cultivate self-compassion, and rebuild confidence and wholeness. I believe therapy should go beyond coping; it should be a safe, supportive space to be fully heard, develop practical tools using evidenced based approaches, and grow into a life that feels more grounded, empowered, and true to who you are. Not sure where to start with therapy? That’s completely okay. I invite you to reach out with any questions. I’m happy to chat about what therapy looks like.
Many people carry the weight of self-doubt, shame, and disconnection from their authentic selves. I’m passionate about helping people quiet their inner critic, cultivate self-compassion, and rebuild confidence and wholeness. I believe therapy should go beyond coping; it should be a safe, supportive space to be fully heard, develop practical tools using evidenced based approaches, and grow into a life that feels more grounded, empowered, and true to who you are. Not sure where to start with therapy? That’s completely okay. I invite you to reach out with any questions. I’m happy to chat about what therapy looks like.
(715) 500-4972 View (715) 500-4972
Photo of Susie Rood, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, SOTP
Susie Rood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, SOTP
Serves Area
My expertise includes providing individual therapy to address a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, LGBT struggles, parenting concerns, abuse and other trauma history, grief and loss, and other mental health concerns. I work with individuals 5 years and up. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help individuals who struggle with trauma. My philosophy is grounded in interpersonal and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and mindfulness. I consider myself to be an open-minded individual who provides empathy and guidance to my clients working through difficult moments.
My expertise includes providing individual therapy to address a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, LGBT struggles, parenting concerns, abuse and other trauma history, grief and loss, and other mental health concerns. I work with individuals 5 years and up. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help individuals who struggle with trauma. My philosophy is grounded in interpersonal and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and mindfulness. I consider myself to be an open-minded individual who provides empathy and guidance to my clients working through difficult moments.
(715) 662-6210 View (715) 662-6210
Photo of Miranda Babl, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CIMHP
Miranda Babl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CIMHP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or carrying more than you can handle, you deserve a space where you feel truly seen and supported. I bring empathy, compassion & a calming presence to help you slow down, make sense of what's happening inside you, and begin healing at a pace that feels right. I specialize in supporting female adolescents (16+) and women. Many of the women I work with are navigating such things as trauma, anxiety, stress, college transitions, perimenopause, relationship/family challenges, & other life transitions. We explore what's beneath the surface, get to the roots, and support steady, lasting healing.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or carrying more than you can handle, you deserve a space where you feel truly seen and supported. I bring empathy, compassion & a calming presence to help you slow down, make sense of what's happening inside you, and begin healing at a pace that feels right. I specialize in supporting female adolescents (16+) and women. Many of the women I work with are navigating such things as trauma, anxiety, stress, college transitions, perimenopause, relationship/family challenges, & other life transitions. We explore what's beneath the surface, get to the roots, and support steady, lasting healing.
(715) 204-7096 View (715) 204-7096
Photo of Krissy Neyrinck, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Krissy Neyrinck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My passion lies in supporting clients exactly where they are, empowering them to build healthier, more fulfilling lives. I take a client-centered approach, combining evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for each individual’s unique journey. I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their emotions, uncover underlying issues, and develop practical skills for managing life’s complexities.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My passion lies in supporting clients exactly where they are, empowering them to build healthier, more fulfilling lives. I take a client-centered approach, combining evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for each individual’s unique journey. I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their emotions, uncover underlying issues, and develop practical skills for managing life’s complexities.
(414) 404-7753 View (414) 404-7753
Photo of Amy Abel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I work with women and individuals navigating women-centered concerns who are facing life transitions and ongoing stressors, including perinatal experiences, self-esteem challenges, mood concerns, and relationship stress. Many are longing to feel more grounded, confident, and secure in themselves. I help clients move from survival mode into a place of clarity, resilience, and self-trust, creating ripple effects in their families, relationships, and daily lives.
I work with women and individuals navigating women-centered concerns who are facing life transitions and ongoing stressors, including perinatal experiences, self-esteem challenges, mood concerns, and relationship stress. Many are longing to feel more grounded, confident, and secure in themselves. I help clients move from survival mode into a place of clarity, resilience, and self-trust, creating ripple effects in their families, relationships, and daily lives.
(715) 665-5636 View (715) 665-5636
Photo of Jesse V. Martino, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Jesse V. Martino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Do you sometimes feel that your heart races out of your chest, your mind jumps around, and you second guess everything you say or do? Do you find it hard to keep going sometimes? Do you feel anger, overwhelm, or sometimes just unsure of yourself? Maybe you have been through a lot, and you're learning how to cope one step at a time. Finding peace through it all can certainly be a challenge. I'm Jess, a clinical counselor (LPC) licensed for Tennessee and Wisconsin. My strengths are in treating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief, and ADHD/neurodivergence. I'm LGBTQIA+, trans/NB and ENM affirming.
Do you sometimes feel that your heart races out of your chest, your mind jumps around, and you second guess everything you say or do? Do you find it hard to keep going sometimes? Do you feel anger, overwhelm, or sometimes just unsure of yourself? Maybe you have been through a lot, and you're learning how to cope one step at a time. Finding peace through it all can certainly be a challenge. I'm Jess, a clinical counselor (LPC) licensed for Tennessee and Wisconsin. My strengths are in treating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief, and ADHD/neurodivergence. I'm LGBTQIA+, trans/NB and ENM affirming.
(865) 205-0252 View (865) 205-0252
Photo of Tisha Sleiter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tisha Sleiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello and Welcome! My name is Tisha Sleiter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Wisconsin offering telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, LGBTQ+ families, and couples. specializing in LGBTQI+ affirming care, ADHD/ADD parenting support, special needs children, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and more. My approach to therapy is person-centered and varies based on the needs of each client/family using a humanistic lens, incorporating elements of Systems Theory, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Solution focused therapy (SFT).
Hello and Welcome! My name is Tisha Sleiter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Wisconsin offering telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, LGBTQ+ families, and couples. specializing in LGBTQI+ affirming care, ADHD/ADD parenting support, special needs children, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and more. My approach to therapy is person-centered and varies based on the needs of each client/family using a humanistic lens, incorporating elements of Systems Theory, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Solution focused therapy (SFT).
(414) 946-6433 View (414) 946-6433
Photo of Shana Greenwich, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shana Greenwich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Shana Greenwich, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is compassionate and dedicated to providing exceptional care to my clients. I approach all of my clients with curiosity and understanding.
Hi there! My name is Shana Greenwich, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is compassionate and dedicated to providing exceptional care to my clients. I approach all of my clients with curiosity and understanding.
(414) 677-7959 View (414) 677-7959

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelsey Link, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kelsey Link
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I work with people who feel burnt out, overwhelmed, and unappreciated. My clients are the go-to person for their family and friends but often feel lost in themselves. I specialize working with women dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and relationships. We will work together to gain back a sense of control in areas of your life that may be feeling out of control right now. My clients range from never having stepped foot in a therapy office before, to many of my clients being therapists themselves. I will meet you where you are at. I do take limited couples therapy clients as well and accept private pay only for couples work.
I work with people who feel burnt out, overwhelmed, and unappreciated. My clients are the go-to person for their family and friends but often feel lost in themselves. I specialize working with women dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and relationships. We will work together to gain back a sense of control in areas of your life that may be feeling out of control right now. My clients range from never having stepped foot in a therapy office before, to many of my clients being therapists themselves. I will meet you where you are at. I do take limited couples therapy clients as well and accept private pay only for couples work.
(715) 802-2123 View (715) 802-2123
Photo of Zoe Bertz, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC
Zoe Bertz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Merrill, WI 54452
Zoё Bertz, is a Licensed Professional Counselor- In Training and Certified Brainspotting Therapist. She understands that life can be challenging. Sometimes, we face adversity that creates anxiety, fear, and a sense of helplessness. It is hard to face that alone. Asking for help is a difficult and courageous thing to do. Zoё provides clients with support and guidance on their healing journey. She understands that healing happens in safe spaces and her goal is to create a safe place where her clients feel heard and validated, a place where they are comfortable exploring their strengths, building resilience, and finding balance.
Zoё Bertz, is a Licensed Professional Counselor- In Training and Certified Brainspotting Therapist. She understands that life can be challenging. Sometimes, we face adversity that creates anxiety, fear, and a sense of helplessness. It is hard to face that alone. Asking for help is a difficult and courageous thing to do. Zoё provides clients with support and guidance on their healing journey. She understands that healing happens in safe spaces and her goal is to create a safe place where her clients feel heard and validated, a place where they are comfortable exploring their strengths, building resilience, and finding balance.
(715) 200-9851 View (715) 200-9851
Photo of Kelly Dallaire, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II
Kelly Dallaire
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer an attuned presence and trauma-focused approach to assist in getting to the root of your mental health symptoms so you can experience trauma reprocessing, resolution, reduction of symptoms, and post-traumatic growth and healing. As a Brainspotting practitioner, I can offer this powerful tool to accelerate and enhance processing and progress to get you closer to the breakthroughs you're seeking.
I offer an attuned presence and trauma-focused approach to assist in getting to the root of your mental health symptoms so you can experience trauma reprocessing, resolution, reduction of symptoms, and post-traumatic growth and healing. As a Brainspotting practitioner, I can offer this powerful tool to accelerate and enhance processing and progress to get you closer to the breakthroughs you're seeking.
(920) 786-2781 View (920) 786-2781
Photo of Aliya Brianne, Counselor, M.S.Ed, LPC-IT
Aliya Brianne
Counselor, M.S.Ed, LPC-IT
Wausau, WI 54401
I work primarily with children who are struggling to adjust to parental divorce, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, processing emotions, and learning how to regulate themselves. Children often want to find ways to be more independent, while parents often want to know how they can help their children through the various stressors of life. Sometimes parents may also have their own mental health needs in addition to juggling parenting and perhaps the same stressors as the kids. I am here to help collaboratively so that the entire family system can become more resilient and have a better quality of life.
I work primarily with children who are struggling to adjust to parental divorce, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, processing emotions, and learning how to regulate themselves. Children often want to find ways to be more independent, while parents often want to know how they can help their children through the various stressors of life. Sometimes parents may also have their own mental health needs in addition to juggling parenting and perhaps the same stressors as the kids. I am here to help collaboratively so that the entire family system can become more resilient and have a better quality of life.
(715) 636-8194 View (715) 636-8194
Photo of Makena Detlor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Makena Detlor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
I work primarily with children ages 5+, my focus areas are on anxiety and childhood trauma. I am trained as a play therapist and use creative and playful ways to engage with children at a level that is most beneficial to their healing and growth journey. I am trained in EMDR and use this often with children, teens, and adults.
I work primarily with children ages 5+, my focus areas are on anxiety and childhood trauma. I am trained as a play therapist and use creative and playful ways to engage with children at a level that is most beneficial to their healing and growth journey. I am trained in EMDR and use this often with children, teens, and adults.
(715) 597-4318 View (715) 597-4318
Photo of Callie Barfield, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Callie Barfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Callie is a politicized therapist & coach who champions rest, radical compassionate accountability, & healing justice. She enjoys collaborating with clients to identify & dismantle barriers to joy & connectedness, navigate relational ruptures, move toward gentle & realistic growth, & attune to the needs & signals of our nervous systems. Callie specializes in working with parents, activists, neurodivergent, non-monogamous, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Callie is a politicized therapist & coach who champions rest, radical compassionate accountability, & healing justice. She enjoys collaborating with clients to identify & dismantle barriers to joy & connectedness, navigate relational ruptures, move toward gentle & realistic growth, & attune to the needs & signals of our nervous systems. Callie specializes in working with parents, activists, neurodivergent, non-monogamous, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(262) 205-7705 View (262) 205-7705
Photo of Jacquelyn Van Laarhoven, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Jacquelyn Van Laarhoven
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
1 Endorsed
Weston, WI 54476
Welcome! Immediate Openings Available! As a licensed professional counselor, I gravitate towards using a person-centered approach, taking a look at a person as a whole not just an issue. I believe in forming healthy relationships with my clients to help them get to the root of their mental health and substance abuse issues in order to live their best lives possible. I enjoy working with all different age groups including children and adolescents (6+), as well as young adults and seniors. I provide family therapy, couples therapy as well as individual therapy.
Welcome! Immediate Openings Available! As a licensed professional counselor, I gravitate towards using a person-centered approach, taking a look at a person as a whole not just an issue. I believe in forming healthy relationships with my clients to help them get to the root of their mental health and substance abuse issues in order to live their best lives possible. I enjoy working with all different age groups including children and adolescents (6+), as well as young adults and seniors. I provide family therapy, couples therapy as well as individual therapy.
(715) 354-0754 View (715) 354-0754
Photo of Amy Abel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Amy Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Weston, WI 54476
Women's Mental Health: I work with women ALL ages, and specialize in maternal mental health. I offer gentle, grounding support for stress resulting from grief, employment, relationships, pregnancy, postpartum, birth trauma, child loss, parenting, perimenopause, menopause, chronic health concerns and caregiving. My approach is warm, calm, and deeply validating. Although my work centers women’s experiences, I welcome all gender identities relating to these concerns.
Women's Mental Health: I work with women ALL ages, and specialize in maternal mental health. I offer gentle, grounding support for stress resulting from grief, employment, relationships, pregnancy, postpartum, birth trauma, child loss, parenting, perimenopause, menopause, chronic health concerns and caregiving. My approach is warm, calm, and deeply validating. Although my work centers women’s experiences, I welcome all gender identities relating to these concerns.
(715) 288-2271 View (715) 288-2271
Photo of Kathy Dutter, Counselor, MSE, LPC-IT
Kathy Dutter
Counselor, MSE, LPC-IT
1 Endorsed
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Starting therapy can feel intimidating. Whether you’re attending your very first session or your hundred-and-first, you can expect to be met with kindness, respect, and genuine care. I approach each client with curiosity and diligence, working collaboratively to help you identify and move toward your therapeutic goals.
Starting therapy can feel intimidating. Whether you’re attending your very first session or your hundred-and-first, you can expect to be met with kindness, respect, and genuine care. I approach each client with curiosity and diligence, working collaboratively to help you identify and move toward your therapeutic goals.
(715) 947-1019 View (715) 947-1019
Photo of Allyson Ende, Psychologist, PsyD
Allyson Ende
Psychologist, PsyD
Wausau, WI 54401
Are you feeling helpless, sad, overwhelmed, or fearful? Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships with family or friends? Through the guidance offered in psychotherapy, you may be able to overcome these issues and resolve the feelings and problems that seem beyond your control. The process will be individually tailored to fit your personality and the particular problems you hope to address. Through collaboration and compassion you can achieve a sense of hope and develop healthier, more effective behaviors.
Are you feeling helpless, sad, overwhelmed, or fearful? Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships with family or friends? Through the guidance offered in psychotherapy, you may be able to overcome these issues and resolve the feelings and problems that seem beyond your control. The process will be individually tailored to fit your personality and the particular problems you hope to address. Through collaboration and compassion you can achieve a sense of hope and develop healthier, more effective behaviors.
(715) 348-2828 View (715) 348-2828

See more therapy options for 54455

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 54455

10+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 54455 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Social Anxiety
100% Health Anxiety
100% Driving Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
90% Self Esteem
90% Complex PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Therapists in 54455 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 54455?

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.