Photo of Lisa Havelin Counseling LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55102, MN
Lisa Havelin Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
We can be kind, strong, intelligent, and resourceful individuals and still there will be times when we need other people to support us, that’s just how we’re built. Acknowledging that vulnerability and asking for what we need is true wisdom. I honor and respect that in you. Every person is a unique expression of life, our work together supports you in embodying an authentic way of living. I deeply respect the painful things that bring people to seek support, as thresholds that offer the potential for healing, connection and purpose, and work to cultivate that optimism while also honoring the suffering that leads to such transitions
We can be kind, strong, intelligent, and resourceful individuals and still there will be times when we need other people to support us, that’s just how we’re built. Acknowledging that vulnerability and asking for what we need is true wisdom. I honor and respect that in you. Every person is a unique expression of life, our work together supports you in embodying an authentic way of living. I deeply respect the painful things that bring people to seek support, as thresholds that offer the potential for healing, connection and purpose, and work to cultivate that optimism while also honoring the suffering that leads to such transitions
(651) 867-3192 View (651) 867-3192
Photo of Georgia DeMun, Pre-Licensed Professional in 55102, MN
Georgia DeMun
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
I really enjoy working with people from all walks of life. Specifically, I enjoy the treatment of anxiety, depression, working with adolescents, treating problems surrounding self-compassion and self-esteem, and stress management. I thoroughly enjoy working with LGBTQ+ people, as I identify as a fellow community member myself. I approach my work with children through an integrative lens. I believe children shape their world through play. Kiddos shine brightest when they are met with authenticity, validation, and compassion! Currently, I am accepting clients 18 years old and above only.
I really enjoy working with people from all walks of life. Specifically, I enjoy the treatment of anxiety, depression, working with adolescents, treating problems surrounding self-compassion and self-esteem, and stress management. I thoroughly enjoy working with LGBTQ+ people, as I identify as a fellow community member myself. I approach my work with children through an integrative lens. I believe children shape their world through play. Kiddos shine brightest when they are met with authenticity, validation, and compassion! Currently, I am accepting clients 18 years old and above only.
(651) 504-8953 View (651) 504-8953
Photo of Amanda Markowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Amanda Markowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Not accepting new clients
I strive to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment to help you learn more about yourself, gain skills to navigate life’s challenges, and live an authentic, fulfilled life. My areas of focus include working with clients who experience anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, and trauma. I enjoy working with clients who identify as LGBQ+, transgender, and/or gender expansive. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, relational approach.
I strive to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment to help you learn more about yourself, gain skills to navigate life’s challenges, and live an authentic, fulfilled life. My areas of focus include working with clients who experience anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, and trauma. I enjoy working with clients who identify as LGBQ+, transgender, and/or gender expansive. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, relational approach.
(612) 999-2263 View (612) 999-2263
Photo of Casey Rae Blum, Pre-Licensed Professional in 55102, MN
Casey Rae Blum
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LADC, MHP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
Deciding to make changes in your life can often be overwhelming. Uncertainty and self-doubt can make a path forward seem impossible. Through our work together, I can assist you in identifying the changes you would like to enact in your own life and help establish how to get there. If you find yourself feeling stuck in emotional pain or problems, therapy can be a catalyst for change you seek.Learning how to manage stress more effectively gives us access to new opportunities. I utilize both EMDR and ART therapies as a way to manage a variety of mental health conditions, including trauma, addiction, depression, grief and anxiety.
Deciding to make changes in your life can often be overwhelming. Uncertainty and self-doubt can make a path forward seem impossible. Through our work together, I can assist you in identifying the changes you would like to enact in your own life and help establish how to get there. If you find yourself feeling stuck in emotional pain or problems, therapy can be a catalyst for change you seek.Learning how to manage stress more effectively gives us access to new opportunities. I utilize both EMDR and ART therapies as a way to manage a variety of mental health conditions, including trauma, addiction, depression, grief and anxiety.
(651) 412-1612 View (651) 412-1612
Photo of Erin O'Gara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Erin O'Gara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I believe strongly in person centered care, meaning your goals for healing and growth will be placed at the core of our work together. You are the expert in your life and I am honored to walk your journey and co-create therapy sessions with you! I operate from a strength based perspective and trauma informed lens, and work to create a welcoming and calming environment for all clients. I believe the relationship between the client and therapist is essential to growth and healing and I will bring kindness, understanding, and humor to our work together. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, aging adults, and couples.
I believe strongly in person centered care, meaning your goals for healing and growth will be placed at the core of our work together. You are the expert in your life and I am honored to walk your journey and co-create therapy sessions with you! I operate from a strength based perspective and trauma informed lens, and work to create a welcoming and calming environment for all clients. I believe the relationship between the client and therapist is essential to growth and healing and I will bring kindness, understanding, and humor to our work together. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, aging adults, and couples.
(651) 240-2137 View (651) 240-2137
Photo of Paula Anderson, Counselor in 55102, MN
Paula Anderson
Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Paula Anderson is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2022. Paula enjoys working with people making life changes, getting free from substance use, repairing relationships (couples), and finding themselves in a new or unexpected life position. Many of her clients have been stalled by grief or trauma. Paula is a champion of recognizing and appreciating the trauma and grief of people in later life and believes society has ignored our elders' mental health. Outside of work, Paula's dogs are a big part of her life, she enjoys attending training classes and exercising them.
Paula Anderson is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2022. Paula enjoys working with people making life changes, getting free from substance use, repairing relationships (couples), and finding themselves in a new or unexpected life position. Many of her clients have been stalled by grief or trauma. Paula is a champion of recognizing and appreciating the trauma and grief of people in later life and believes society has ignored our elders' mental health. Outside of work, Paula's dogs are a big part of her life, she enjoys attending training classes and exercising them.
(651) 615-0940 View (651) 615-0940
Photo of Terry M Post, Licensed Professional Counselor in 55102, MN
Terry M Post
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I help people overcome life’s challenges so that they can grow and find the happiness they desire. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems and some personality disorders.
I help people overcome life’s challenges so that they can grow and find the happiness they desire. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems and some personality disorders.
(952) 213-6554 View (952) 213-6554
Photo of Caitlin Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Caitlin Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Life can sometimes feel lonely, exhausting, frustrating or even overwhelming. As a therapist, I am honored to be a part of each individual's path to a happier, more peaceful and productive place. I respect each client's world view and experience, and strive to collaborate in my client's growth to alleviate the struggles that are being, or have been experienced. I strive to leave each client feeling heard, empowered and ready to manage the stressors that are encountered in this complex world.
Life can sometimes feel lonely, exhausting, frustrating or even overwhelming. As a therapist, I am honored to be a part of each individual's path to a happier, more peaceful and productive place. I respect each client's world view and experience, and strive to collaborate in my client's growth to alleviate the struggles that are being, or have been experienced. I strive to leave each client feeling heard, empowered and ready to manage the stressors that are encountered in this complex world.
(651) 424-1756 View (651) 424-1756
Photo of Jess Holly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Jess Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
Jess Holly received her Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology from the University of Minnesota and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the U of M. Jess previously worked for a children’s community mental health agency in Minneapolis and surrounding areas where she provided in-home therapeutic support to children and their families facing serious and persistent mental and behavioral health challenges. Jess also has experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
Jess Holly received her Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology from the University of Minnesota and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the U of M. Jess previously worked for a children’s community mental health agency in Minneapolis and surrounding areas where she provided in-home therapeutic support to children and their families facing serious and persistent mental and behavioral health challenges. Jess also has experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
(651) 359-9875 View (651) 359-9875
Photo of Adam Chase, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Adam Chase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Hi, I'm Adam. Therapist shopping can be difficult! Some general info about me: I have a psychodynamic orientation (which means I believe that the relationship between the therapist and you is an important part of the process). My work is informed by buddhist ideas (i.e., most suffering comes from attachment to something). I like to use humor and poetry in therapy. In the end, I believe we need to feel some sense of connection with the person we are working with, so I encourage you to "shop" until you find the person who feels right to you.
Hi, I'm Adam. Therapist shopping can be difficult! Some general info about me: I have a psychodynamic orientation (which means I believe that the relationship between the therapist and you is an important part of the process). My work is informed by buddhist ideas (i.e., most suffering comes from attachment to something). I like to use humor and poetry in therapy. In the end, I believe we need to feel some sense of connection with the person we are working with, so I encourage you to "shop" until you find the person who feels right to you.
(651) 968-2243 View (651) 968-2243
Photo of Evan Lieberman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Evan Lieberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
If you are here reading this, you want something better for yourself. We are complex individuals, and when you gain a better understanding of who you truly are, you will be amazed at how life takes on a new perspective. To be more productive in your work, having healthier and deeper relationships, and to be more comfortable with yourself, are among the many benefits of therapy. I believe in the power of therapy and having greater personal insight. I have seen it work for my clients and myself. If you ready to take this first step, let's talk!
If you are here reading this, you want something better for yourself. We are complex individuals, and when you gain a better understanding of who you truly are, you will be amazed at how life takes on a new perspective. To be more productive in your work, having healthier and deeper relationships, and to be more comfortable with yourself, are among the many benefits of therapy. I believe in the power of therapy and having greater personal insight. I have seen it work for my clients and myself. If you ready to take this first step, let's talk!
(651) 401-6677 View (651) 401-6677
Photo of Megan Blommer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55102, MN
Megan Blommer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Whether you're considering beginning therapy for the first time, continuing or returning to treatment, good for you! You're already taking positive steps to improve your mental health and well-being. I meet clients wherever they are in life and utilize a strengths-based, collaborative approach to help them get to where they would like to be. I support clients in identifying areas in which they may benefit from making changes and help them develop effective skills to do so. My therapeutic style incorporates warmth, humor, and positive regard for the strengths of each individual.
Whether you're considering beginning therapy for the first time, continuing or returning to treatment, good for you! You're already taking positive steps to improve your mental health and well-being. I meet clients wherever they are in life and utilize a strengths-based, collaborative approach to help them get to where they would like to be. I support clients in identifying areas in which they may benefit from making changes and help them develop effective skills to do so. My therapeutic style incorporates warmth, humor, and positive regard for the strengths of each individual.
(651) 564-8988 View (651) 564-8988
Photo of Allen Burns, Counselor in 55102, MN
Allen Burns
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Are you feeling irritable, having difficulty sleeping or focusing, experiencing mood swings or angry outbursts? Are you avoiding people or places or activities out of fear? These kinds of problems affect relationships at home and at work, our friendships, and our love relationships. They keep us from living the kind of rewarding life we really want; they keep us from thriving. If you want to find your own path to your thriving life, I'm ready to help. I will bring my compassion, curiosity, courage, and patience. And I will encourage you to bring yours.
Are you feeling irritable, having difficulty sleeping or focusing, experiencing mood swings or angry outbursts? Are you avoiding people or places or activities out of fear? These kinds of problems affect relationships at home and at work, our friendships, and our love relationships. They keep us from living the kind of rewarding life we really want; they keep us from thriving. If you want to find your own path to your thriving life, I'm ready to help. I will bring my compassion, curiosity, courage, and patience. And I will encourage you to bring yours.
(651) 243-9807 View (651) 243-9807
Photo of Joshua Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Joshua Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I know it can be hard to reach out for help, especially when you're reaching out to a stranger. I really hope that you take this important step. You deserve to feel better. I promise to listen to what's bothering you, what's important to you, and to help you be the best you. I'm not here to judge or make you into someone you don't want to be.
I know it can be hard to reach out for help, especially when you're reaching out to a stranger. I really hope that you take this important step. You deserve to feel better. I promise to listen to what's bothering you, what's important to you, and to help you be the best you. I'm not here to judge or make you into someone you don't want to be.
(651) 410-1732 View (651) 410-1732
Photo of Paige Kahleck, Pre-Licensed Professional in 55102, MN
Paige Kahleck
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Paige Kahleck is a Marriage and Family Therapist in process with experience working with depression, anxiety, and ADD/ADHD. Paige works with individuals, families and couples. Paige treats children to adults utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative therapy in her approach with clients. In her clinical work, Paige is well versed in both traditional therapeutic techniques as well as creative modalities such as play therapy, role play and skills work. In her free time Paige enjoys being outside hiking and biking. Paige has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Mary's University.
Paige Kahleck is a Marriage and Family Therapist in process with experience working with depression, anxiety, and ADD/ADHD. Paige works with individuals, families and couples. Paige treats children to adults utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative therapy in her approach with clients. In her clinical work, Paige is well versed in both traditional therapeutic techniques as well as creative modalities such as play therapy, role play and skills work. In her free time Paige enjoys being outside hiking and biking. Paige has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Mary's University.
(651) 349-6623 View (651) 349-6623
Photo of Scott Brownlee, Licensed Professional Counselor in 55102, MN
Scott Brownlee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Have you been wondering if you need to make a change to your drinking or substance use, but don’t feel like AA or rehab is a good fit? Have you been searching for alternatives, but keep running into programs that all sound the same? If so, I offer a fresh perspective on how to make lasting changes in these areas.
Have you been wondering if you need to make a change to your drinking or substance use, but don’t feel like AA or rehab is a good fit? Have you been searching for alternatives, but keep running into programs that all sound the same? If so, I offer a fresh perspective on how to make lasting changes in these areas.
(651) 505-8259 View (651) 505-8259
Photo of Ashley Schultz Henricksen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55102, MN
Ashley Schultz Henricksen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Is your inner critic the loudest voice in your head? Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or stuck? Being human can be incredibly difficult. It can also be incredibly beautiful. Do you find yourself losing sight of the beautiful parts? I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and difficulty with their self-esteem to overcome these experiences and build a life that is more satisfying and in line with their values.
Is your inner critic the loudest voice in your head? Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or stuck? Being human can be incredibly difficult. It can also be incredibly beautiful. Do you find yourself losing sight of the beautiful parts? I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and difficulty with their self-esteem to overcome these experiences and build a life that is more satisfying and in line with their values.
(952) 592-0705 View (952) 592-0705
Photo of Molly Burke, Pre-Licensed Professional in 55102, MN
Molly Burke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I'm currently accepting new clients and have immediate openings. My ideal client is someone who is ready to collaborate on meeting their goals! As the therapist, I'm not the 'leader' or 'expert' — I'm a co-pilot or a gentle guide in a client's therapy experience. If something isn't working (or even better, if something is!) I appreciate an open dialogue and willingness to try something different/new.
I'm currently accepting new clients and have immediate openings. My ideal client is someone who is ready to collaborate on meeting their goals! As the therapist, I'm not the 'leader' or 'expert' — I'm a co-pilot or a gentle guide in a client's therapy experience. If something isn't working (or even better, if something is!) I appreciate an open dialogue and willingness to try something different/new.
(651) 372-3380 View (651) 372-3380
Photo of Jodi Leirness, Psychologist in 55102, MN
Jodi Leirness
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. I am currently accepting new clients. My name is Dr. Jodi Leirness (she/her) and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota. My true passion is providing therapy services and walking alongside my clients as they search for and discover growth and healing in their lives. While life can bring joy, it can also brings stress, anxiety, depression, grief, pain and suffering. My goal is to create a safe and healing space where you can speak your truth alongside someone who truly cares about you, your wellness, your wholeness, and your authentic happiness.
Welcome to my practice. I am currently accepting new clients. My name is Dr. Jodi Leirness (she/her) and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota. My true passion is providing therapy services and walking alongside my clients as they search for and discover growth and healing in their lives. While life can bring joy, it can also brings stress, anxiety, depression, grief, pain and suffering. My goal is to create a safe and healing space where you can speak your truth alongside someone who truly cares about you, your wellness, your wholeness, and your authentic happiness.
(651) 478-2321 View (651) 478-2321
Photo of Kathleen Gjevre, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 55102, MN
Kathleen Gjevre
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
Watching someone you love struggle can be painful. It can be hard to watch someone you love experience the ups and downs of entering recovery and then falling back into old behavior patterns. They can get caught up in their head looking for the perfect answer – or any answer – to solve their problems. Often people find themselves in an uncomfortable limbo of not knowing what to do in those moments of struggle. These are the moments that a professional outside the situation can provide a space for you to reflect and explore how to create a life with less pain and more joy.
Watching someone you love struggle can be painful. It can be hard to watch someone you love experience the ups and downs of entering recovery and then falling back into old behavior patterns. They can get caught up in their head looking for the perfect answer – or any answer – to solve their problems. Often people find themselves in an uncomfortable limbo of not knowing what to do in those moments of struggle. These are the moments that a professional outside the situation can provide a space for you to reflect and explore how to create a life with less pain and more joy.
(651) 661-3768 View (651) 661-3768

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 55102

100+

Average cost per session

$167

Therapists in 55102 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
69% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UCare
67% HealthPartners of MN and WI

How Therapists in 55102 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 55102?

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.