Photo of Lindsey Liddicoatt - Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services, LCPC, CADC
Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Strong + Brave. That’s what you are. Or at least that’s what you want to believe about yourself. And what you hope your family believes about you. But something feels… off. You’re just not yourself. Maybe you’re quieter than usual. Detached. Not interested in much of anything. Letting off steam with a little more alcohol than you’d like. Fighting with your partner. Not showing up at work in the way you want. You just want to feel like yourself again. You just want to feel good. You want your mood to be lighter after work, you want to feel calmer at the end of the day, and you want to have fun with your friends and family again.
Strong + Brave. That’s what you are. Or at least that’s what you want to believe about yourself. And what you hope your family believes about you. But something feels… off. You’re just not yourself. Maybe you’re quieter than usual. Detached. Not interested in much of anything. Letting off steam with a little more alcohol than you’d like. Fighting with your partner. Not showing up at work in the way you want. You just want to feel like yourself again. You just want to feel good. You want your mood to be lighter after work, you want to feel calmer at the end of the day, and you want to have fun with your friends and family again.
(331) 334-2707 View (331) 334-2707
Photo of Lindsey Maltese, MSEd, LCPC, LGBTQ+, Ally, Counselor
Lindsey Maltese
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, LGBTQ+, Ally
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, "Are you ready to face it?" Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my mission to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, "Are you ready to face it?" Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my mission to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time.
(630) 626-5011 View (630) 626-5011
Photo of Jen Williamee, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Williamee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Jen enjoys supporting clients as they navigate life transitions including the death of a loved one, separation/divorce, and career changes. She is also experienced in working with clients who have perinatal mood concerns, including infertility, pregnancy and infant loss, and adjustment to parenthood. Her approach focuses on holistic health and relational well-being. She considers diet, movement, and mindfulness as essential elements to restoring a sense of balance and genuine connection to self and others.
Jen enjoys supporting clients as they navigate life transitions including the death of a loved one, separation/divorce, and career changes. She is also experienced in working with clients who have perinatal mood concerns, including infertility, pregnancy and infant loss, and adjustment to parenthood. Her approach focuses on holistic health and relational well-being. She considers diet, movement, and mindfulness as essential elements to restoring a sense of balance and genuine connection to self and others.
(331) 200-2492 View (331) 200-2492
Catherine Seger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
All of us face many challenges with varying degrees of difficulty to meet our needs and reach our goals. I believe I can help you find a solution to some of these problems and assist you in achieving success. My job as a therapist is to help you to find the best solution for you, the client.
All of us face many challenges with varying degrees of difficulty to meet our needs and reach our goals. I believe I can help you find a solution to some of these problems and assist you in achieving success. My job as a therapist is to help you to find the best solution for you, the client.
(331) 241-7322 View (331) 241-7322
Photo of Stephanie Johnson - A Better Day Teletherapy, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Better Day Teletherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Teletherapy is an excellent option for those looking to receive quality therapy services from home or on the go. My goal is for my clients to feel heard and understood while building a sincere therapeutic relationship.
Teletherapy is an excellent option for those looking to receive quality therapy services from home or on the go. My goal is for my clients to feel heard and understood while building a sincere therapeutic relationship.
(331) 214-3407 View (331) 214-3407
Photo of Joslyn Barajas, MSW, LSW, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joslyn Barajas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Hello, I am devoted to empowering individuals by guiding them through the healing process. An impactful aspect of the therapeutic relationship is to provide you with tools you can use outside of the therapeutic space to improve your life and see change. The most important aspect of therapy for me involves building a trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I take great care to tailor each intervention to fit your goals and needs.
Hello, I am devoted to empowering individuals by guiding them through the healing process. An impactful aspect of the therapeutic relationship is to provide you with tools you can use outside of the therapeutic space to improve your life and see change. The most important aspect of therapy for me involves building a trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I take great care to tailor each intervention to fit your goals and needs.
(630) 757-8368 View (630) 757-8368
Photo of Amy MacDonald, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy MacDonald
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
All good psychotherapy has these elements in common: the presence of empathy; a process for self-examination; tools for healing and change; and support during the process of change. Whether the focus of therapy is improving marriage, negotiating a family problem, facing addiction, healing trauma, or controlling anxiety or depression symptoms, clients deserve empathic, respectful support in increasing their self-understanding and in changing their lives. People seek therapy because they need understanding, help, and relief--the relief that comes from immediate attention to their suffering, and relief that comes from beginning to hope for a more peaceful, joyful life.
All good psychotherapy has these elements in common: the presence of empathy; a process for self-examination; tools for healing and change; and support during the process of change. Whether the focus of therapy is improving marriage, negotiating a family problem, facing addiction, healing trauma, or controlling anxiety or depression symptoms, clients deserve empathic, respectful support in increasing their self-understanding and in changing their lives. People seek therapy because they need understanding, help, and relief--the relief that comes from immediate attention to their suffering, and relief that comes from beginning to hope for a more peaceful, joyful life.
(630) 883-4933 View (630) 883-4933
Photo of Kari Stearns-Lamb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Stearns-Lamb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Hello, my name is Kari Stearns-Lamb. I am a licensed clinical social worker in both Illinois and Iowa. My priority is you, and what you need to feel successful in your life. I believe in the holistic approach. This allows you to heal by taking all of your life experiences into consideration during the treatment process. I enjoy working with adults ages 18 and up. I have a mix of experiences that allows me to adjust my therapy approaches as needed. I strongly believe in nonjudgmental therapy and a trusting relationship. It is a true privilege to work with each of my clients, and I honor the relationships and the trust placed in me.
Hello, my name is Kari Stearns-Lamb. I am a licensed clinical social worker in both Illinois and Iowa. My priority is you, and what you need to feel successful in your life. I believe in the holistic approach. This allows you to heal by taking all of your life experiences into consideration during the treatment process. I enjoy working with adults ages 18 and up. I have a mix of experiences that allows me to adjust my therapy approaches as needed. I strongly believe in nonjudgmental therapy and a trusting relationship. It is a true privilege to work with each of my clients, and I honor the relationships and the trust placed in me.
(773) 830-2845 View (773) 830-2845
Photo of Mary Kate Beckmen, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kate Beckmen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As an adolescent or emerging adult, you could be facing the weight of complex trauma, anxiety, or depression during significant life transitions. You may be looking for support to help you better understand your emotions and experiences. Your goals might include finding practical coping strategies and confronting challenges that feel daunting. Ultimately, you want to navigate this critical period with a clearer sense of direction and the tools to create a life that feels more aligned with who you truly are.
As an adolescent or emerging adult, you could be facing the weight of complex trauma, anxiety, or depression during significant life transitions. You may be looking for support to help you better understand your emotions and experiences. Your goals might include finding practical coping strategies and confronting challenges that feel daunting. Ultimately, you want to navigate this critical period with a clearer sense of direction and the tools to create a life that feels more aligned with who you truly are.
(331) 267-6906 View (331) 267-6906
Photo of John Gilmore Dewinski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Gilmore Dewinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
If you are reading this, then you know better than anyone the struggles that you are facing. Whether you find yourself anxious, depressed, affected by past trauma, or simply finding that you have trouble achieving your current goals, it is important to find support to process these feelings and give yourself the space to make decisions you are happy with. My role is to build a unique connection to each client by empathizing with them and working to understand their current feelings and history. No two clients are the same, and I will select evidence-based treatments based on what the client brings to the session.
If you are reading this, then you know better than anyone the struggles that you are facing. Whether you find yourself anxious, depressed, affected by past trauma, or simply finding that you have trouble achieving your current goals, it is important to find support to process these feelings and give yourself the space to make decisions you are happy with. My role is to build a unique connection to each client by empathizing with them and working to understand their current feelings and history. No two clients are the same, and I will select evidence-based treatments based on what the client brings to the session.
(630) 528-2731 View (630) 528-2731
Photo of Rob Castillo, LCSW, CAADC-I, CODP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC-I, CODP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I have been told I am easy to talk to; but there are times when you need more than talk. I also am able to gently guide my clients through the stages of change at their own pace. I use a variety of treatment approaches when working with my clients. I try help my clients realize they are the experts of themselves, and as such they can empower themselves in finding their inner strength. We go on this journey of self-discovery together.
I have been told I am easy to talk to; but there are times when you need more than talk. I also am able to gently guide my clients through the stages of change at their own pace. I use a variety of treatment approaches when working with my clients. I try help my clients realize they are the experts of themselves, and as such they can empower themselves in finding their inner strength. We go on this journey of self-discovery together.
(630) 426-6344 View (630) 426-6344
Photo of Brian W Rooney, PhD, Psychologist
Brian W Rooney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make their lives feel and work better. Whether it is healing old wounds, learning new ways, or adjusting our roles and communication with others, we have the capacity to be happier and under less strain. While personal struggles are no fun, they are almost always real opportunities for growth. Since we have to do it ourselves, but can't usually do it alone, I relish being a collaborator with someone who is learning to feel better and grow.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make their lives feel and work better. Whether it is healing old wounds, learning new ways, or adjusting our roles and communication with others, we have the capacity to be happier and under less strain. While personal struggles are no fun, they are almost always real opportunities for growth. Since we have to do it ourselves, but can't usually do it alone, I relish being a collaborator with someone who is learning to feel better and grow.
(630) 557-6443 View (630) 557-6443
Photo of Tracy Teichman, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Teichman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you stuck with thoughts, feelings, or behaviors you can’t change, no matter how hard you try? What if your "symptoms" weren’t the problem but your nervous system’s way of protecting you? Together, we’ll explore your body’s wisdom and uncover how it has adapted to keep you safe. We’ll build new regulation strategies that help you feel at home in your own skin and assess whether your current strategies are still serving you. When you feel safely embodied, those old strategies often become unnecessary, allowing them to naturally let go. Healing isn’t about fighting yourself—it’s about partnering with your body’s innate wisdom.
Are you stuck with thoughts, feelings, or behaviors you can’t change, no matter how hard you try? What if your "symptoms" weren’t the problem but your nervous system’s way of protecting you? Together, we’ll explore your body’s wisdom and uncover how it has adapted to keep you safe. We’ll build new regulation strategies that help you feel at home in your own skin and assess whether your current strategies are still serving you. When you feel safely embodied, those old strategies often become unnecessary, allowing them to naturally let go. Healing isn’t about fighting yourself—it’s about partnering with your body’s innate wisdom.
(331) 258-3249 View (331) 258-3249
Photo of Jim M. Gilligan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jim M. Gilligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you a law enforcement officer, hospital or healthcare professional or military veteran who has experienced a traumatic event and is having a difficulty time managing your life? Do you find yourself needing to isolate and avoid people, places or situations in order to feel safe? Do have a difficult time getting to sleep and staying asleep? Have you experienced frustration towards others when they tell you that you should "get over it...and move on" by family, friends or coworkers. The need to feel truly heard and understood in a safe environment is vital towards the road to recovery.
Are you a law enforcement officer, hospital or healthcare professional or military veteran who has experienced a traumatic event and is having a difficulty time managing your life? Do you find yourself needing to isolate and avoid people, places or situations in order to feel safe? Do have a difficult time getting to sleep and staying asleep? Have you experienced frustration towards others when they tell you that you should "get over it...and move on" by family, friends or coworkers. The need to feel truly heard and understood in a safe environment is vital towards the road to recovery.
(630) 715-5740 View (630) 715-5740
Photo of Amy Goles, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amy Goles
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Choosing a counselor can be difficult. It is important to have trust, communication and the feeling that someone understands and is working with you. Having the right level of support makes a difference. Throughout our lives, we can experience many challenges. These struggles may leave us feeling anxious, depressed, confused and overwhelmed. During these times, we can benefit from support to help with the problems that seem beyond our control. I provide an open and collaborative environment where together we explore the issues that cause stress in your life and create a plan to best manage them.
Choosing a counselor can be difficult. It is important to have trust, communication and the feeling that someone understands and is working with you. Having the right level of support makes a difference. Throughout our lives, we can experience many challenges. These struggles may leave us feeling anxious, depressed, confused and overwhelmed. During these times, we can benefit from support to help with the problems that seem beyond our control. I provide an open and collaborative environment where together we explore the issues that cause stress in your life and create a plan to best manage them.
(630) 560-6643 View (630) 560-6643
Photo of Tiffany Wu, MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR, Counselor
Tiffany Wu
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
(773) 570-2399 View (773) 570-2399
Photo of Alayna Orchard, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alayna Orchard
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling major changes or wrestling with anxiety and self-doubt. Hi, I’m Alayna, a counseling intern at Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services, and I’m here to help you navigate these uncertain moments with care and understanding. Whether you’re transitioning from high school to college, stepping into post-grad life, or simply trying to find your place in the world, I’m passionate about helping you feel less alone on this journey. You might be feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure about what’s next—and that’s okay. Therapy is a place where you don’t have to have all the answers.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling major changes or wrestling with anxiety and self-doubt. Hi, I’m Alayna, a counseling intern at Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services, and I’m here to help you navigate these uncertain moments with care and understanding. Whether you’re transitioning from high school to college, stepping into post-grad life, or simply trying to find your place in the world, I’m passionate about helping you feel less alone on this journey. You might be feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure about what’s next—and that’s okay. Therapy is a place where you don’t have to have all the answers.
(331) 296-3024 View (331) 296-3024
Photo of John Kuzelka, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Kuzelka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Anger, often a formidable and distressing emotion, can disrupt lives and relationships if left unaddressed. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with specialized training in Anger Management, I aim to provide tailored support to help individuals confront and effectively manage their anger. Through a blend of acceptance techniques and evidence-based strategies, my mission is to equip clients with the necessary tools to navigate challenging emotions and respond constructively to feel empowered.
Anger, often a formidable and distressing emotion, can disrupt lives and relationships if left unaddressed. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with specialized training in Anger Management, I aim to provide tailored support to help individuals confront and effectively manage their anger. Through a blend of acceptance techniques and evidence-based strategies, my mission is to equip clients with the necessary tools to navigate challenging emotions and respond constructively to feel empowered.
(630) 384-9261 View (630) 384-9261
Photo of Aubrey Benton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aubrey Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
Do you feel anxious, sad, or angry? Maybe you feel some combination of emotions or aren't sure how to put a name to what you are feeling. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma, medical conditions, depression, and other topics mentioned on my profile. I value building healthy relationships with clients and am creative and flexible in finding a plan that works for you. Please reach out if you would like to discuss working together to help you on your path to healing.
Do you feel anxious, sad, or angry? Maybe you feel some combination of emotions or aren't sure how to put a name to what you are feeling. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma, medical conditions, depression, and other topics mentioned on my profile. I value building healthy relationships with clients and am creative and flexible in finding a plan that works for you. Please reach out if you would like to discuss working together to help you on your path to healing.
(630) 454-1487 View (630) 454-1487
Photo of Stephanie Dewinski - Suicide Prevention Services of America, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suicide Prevention Services of America
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
We are here because we’ve been there. Suicide Prevention Services of America is a non-profit dedicated to helping people along the continuum of care of suicide. We have been helping individuals in our community for over 25 years. Our mission is to open minds, save lives, and restore hope through prevention, intervention, and prevention services through education, advocacy, and collaboration in the community. SPSA is made up of a passionate and compassionate team of mental health professionals, many of whom have had suicide impact their lives. We assist people at any stage of their mental health treatment through individual therapy.
We are here because we’ve been there. Suicide Prevention Services of America is a non-profit dedicated to helping people along the continuum of care of suicide. We have been helping individuals in our community for over 25 years. Our mission is to open minds, save lives, and restore hope through prevention, intervention, and prevention services through education, advocacy, and collaboration in the community. SPSA is made up of a passionate and compassionate team of mental health professionals, many of whom have had suicide impact their lives. We assist people at any stage of their mental health treatment through individual therapy.
(630) 482-9699 View (630) 482-9699

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 60510

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 60510 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
79% Coping Skills
78% Self Esteem
69% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

99% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 60510 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 60510?

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.