Photo of Erin Sunsong, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, PLPC
Erin Sunsong
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may not feel like it, but seeking help is an act of bravery, and I'm proud of you for taking this step. My name is Erin Sunsong, and I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, or the challenges that come with being LGBTQ+. I have extensive experience helping people explore their gender and sexuality, as well as dealing with religious trauma. As a queer woman I want you to know, no matter who you are or what you believe, that I care about you, and I want happiness for you. If you resonate with any of that, I can help you.
You may not feel like it, but seeking help is an act of bravery, and I'm proud of you for taking this step. My name is Erin Sunsong, and I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, or the challenges that come with being LGBTQ+. I have extensive experience helping people explore their gender and sexuality, as well as dealing with religious trauma. As a queer woman I want you to know, no matter who you are or what you believe, that I care about you, and I want happiness for you. If you resonate with any of that, I can help you.
(913) 914-8323 View (913) 914-8323
Photo of Karla Kohout, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Karla Kohout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you find yourself internally suffering from your emotions? Do feel like your life isn’t going to get better and worry these feelings will continue to persist in the future? Do you feel frustrated, like you are constantly stuck in the same patterns within yourself and within your relationships? Most of my clients come to me seeking ways to overcome these challenges and find ways to move forward. Through a trusting and supportive relationship along with evidence-based techniques, my goal is to help you better understand yourself, navigate your emotions, and equip you with coping strategies that will lead to lasting change.
Do you find yourself internally suffering from your emotions? Do feel like your life isn’t going to get better and worry these feelings will continue to persist in the future? Do you feel frustrated, like you are constantly stuck in the same patterns within yourself and within your relationships? Most of my clients come to me seeking ways to overcome these challenges and find ways to move forward. Through a trusting and supportive relationship along with evidence-based techniques, my goal is to help you better understand yourself, navigate your emotions, and equip you with coping strategies that will lead to lasting change.
(913) 430-9737 View (913) 430-9737
Photo of Christy Barnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCAC
Christy Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that everyone has the ability to learn, change and grow. Recovery is possible and I would love the opportunity to help you reach your goals. I utilize a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral therapy approach and will work with you to identify your strengths to overcome the challenges you are currently facing. I have experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings such as community mental health, emergency department, and outpatient treatment.
I believe that everyone has the ability to learn, change and grow. Recovery is possible and I would love the opportunity to help you reach your goals. I utilize a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral therapy approach and will work with you to identify your strengths to overcome the challenges you are currently facing. I have experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings such as community mental health, emergency department, and outpatient treatment.
(913) 675-9971 View (913) 675-9971
Photo of Rachel V Hills, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Rachel V Hills
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker who holds a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and have extensive experience working with children, adults and families. Beyond clinical work, I enjoy incorporating humor, art, music and media into therapeutic practice to connect with clients in a more personal way. I draw on a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker who holds a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and have extensive experience working with children, adults and families. Beyond clinical work, I enjoy incorporating humor, art, music and media into therapeutic practice to connect with clients in a more personal way. I draw on a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(913) 395-9637 View (913) 395-9637
Photo of Alan D Banwart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Alan D Banwart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a struggling biological, adoptive, or foster parent? Do you have a biological, adopted, or foster child or adolescent in your home struggling with their emotions and/or behaviors? Are you or others in your home having difficulty connecting/attaching with people and building strong relationships? Are you or others in your home coping with life's complications in ways that are unhealthy or causing more problems? Have you or others in your home experienced trauma? Would you like help in working through these challenges, creating stronger relationships, and finding positive methods to manage and eliminate your suffering?
Are you a struggling biological, adoptive, or foster parent? Do you have a biological, adopted, or foster child or adolescent in your home struggling with their emotions and/or behaviors? Are you or others in your home having difficulty connecting/attaching with people and building strong relationships? Are you or others in your home coping with life's complications in ways that are unhealthy or causing more problems? Have you or others in your home experienced trauma? Would you like help in working through these challenges, creating stronger relationships, and finding positive methods to manage and eliminate your suffering?
(913) 380-0784 View (913) 380-0784
Photo of Mandi Shrock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, LCAC
Mandi Shrock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, LCAC
Verified Verified
Online Only
To the person who is tired of feeling stuck- I see you. You've given therapy your best and nothing seems to help. "That thing that happened to you" continues to haunt you with overpowering force. You want to find freedom and get on with your life, but you're skeptical if that is even possible. What you have experienced doesn't need to steal from your present any longer.
To the person who is tired of feeling stuck- I see you. You've given therapy your best and nothing seems to help. "That thing that happened to you" continues to haunt you with overpowering force. You want to find freedom and get on with your life, but you're skeptical if that is even possible. What you have experienced doesn't need to steal from your present any longer.
(785) 264-4402 View (785) 264-4402

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nikki Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, LCSW
Nikki Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Waitlist for new clients
You may feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or know you're engaging in unhealthy behaviors but don't know what else to do. You're seeking counseling because you've exhausted your efforts & you need help to feel some relief. Maybe you've experienced a loss or a traumatic event, are using substances to cope, are overwhelmed with stress or are just unsatisfied with life. It doesn't have to be this hard & I can help. I would be honored to be a part of your healing process. I'll meet you where you are at to help you navigate change and feel better!
You may feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or know you're engaging in unhealthy behaviors but don't know what else to do. You're seeking counseling because you've exhausted your efforts & you need help to feel some relief. Maybe you've experienced a loss or a traumatic event, are using substances to cope, are overwhelmed with stress or are just unsatisfied with life. It doesn't have to be this hard & I can help. I would be honored to be a part of your healing process. I'll meet you where you are at to help you navigate change and feel better!
(913) 674-5223 View (913) 674-5223
Photo of Shelley Clayton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shelley Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am licensed in Missouri, Iowa, and Kansas with 20 years within the social work, mental health, and the medical fields. I have experience in helping clients with a myriad of mental health issues including PTSD, ADHD, Suicidal Ideation/Self Harm and the fall out it can have on our mental health and relationships. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I pride myself in looking at people as a whole as well as their parts. You can expect empathy, honesty, humor, and most likely random movie quotes, TikTok's, or song lyrics during our sessions.
I am licensed in Missouri, Iowa, and Kansas with 20 years within the social work, mental health, and the medical fields. I have experience in helping clients with a myriad of mental health issues including PTSD, ADHD, Suicidal Ideation/Self Harm and the fall out it can have on our mental health and relationships. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I pride myself in looking at people as a whole as well as their parts. You can expect empathy, honesty, humor, and most likely random movie quotes, TikTok's, or song lyrics during our sessions.
(816) 494-2065 View (816) 494-2065
Photo of J. Craig Waddle, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
J. Craig Waddle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
(913) 624-1251 View (913) 624-1251
Photo of Ashley Michel - Finer Things Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Finer Things Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
Ashley Miller is the group practice owner of Finer Things Therapy. Finer Things Therapy is looking for clients who are ready to make changes in their life, and would like help navigating the challenges that change can bring. We are able to help with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, life changes, trauma, and many more. For the fastest response, please send a text message to 913-392-6604 to schedule an appointment.
Ashley Miller is the group practice owner of Finer Things Therapy. Finer Things Therapy is looking for clients who are ready to make changes in their life, and would like help navigating the challenges that change can bring. We are able to help with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, life changes, trauma, and many more. For the fastest response, please send a text message to 913-392-6604 to schedule an appointment.
(913) 379-3038 View (913) 379-3038
Photo of Jenny Friend, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Jenny Friend
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
Trauma can impact anyone. We all have experienced it, or know someone who has. You are not alone.
Trauma can impact anyone. We all have experienced it, or know someone who has. You are not alone.
(913) 318-5084 View (913) 318-5084
Photo of Rochelle D Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Rochelle D Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of relying on talk therapy and medication, only to feel stuck in a pattern of chronic distress? I can help you! We offer advanced clinical services to identify the root of the problem and provide real and lasting transformation. I have advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for the treatment of complex trauma, mood and anxiety issues. Also offered in our clinic, is neuro-psych genetic testing and food sensitivity testing. This allows the patient to received individualized recommendation for supplementing and diet tweaks to improve optimal brain and body health!
Tired of relying on talk therapy and medication, only to feel stuck in a pattern of chronic distress? I can help you! We offer advanced clinical services to identify the root of the problem and provide real and lasting transformation. I have advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for the treatment of complex trauma, mood and anxiety issues. Also offered in our clinic, is neuro-psych genetic testing and food sensitivity testing. This allows the patient to received individualized recommendation for supplementing and diet tweaks to improve optimal brain and body health!
(785) 453-8379 View (785) 453-8379
Photo of Jill Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
Jill Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Maybe you're feeling stuck. Maybe you are seeking answers but not able to see through the darkness. Maybe peace feels impossible. Maybe you're questioning who you are or going through a life transition. Maybe it's your relationship or parenting or past hurts. This life experience is filled with highs, lows, and in-between moments. At times, we all want someone to join in our journey and walk alongside us so we can feel supported. I am here to meet you where you are in your life right now. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe that all of life is relational, whether that is within or outside with family, friends, society.
Maybe you're feeling stuck. Maybe you are seeking answers but not able to see through the darkness. Maybe peace feels impossible. Maybe you're questioning who you are or going through a life transition. Maybe it's your relationship or parenting or past hurts. This life experience is filled with highs, lows, and in-between moments. At times, we all want someone to join in our journey and walk alongside us so we can feel supported. I am here to meet you where you are in your life right now. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe that all of life is relational, whether that is within or outside with family, friends, society.
(816) 839-9683 View (816) 839-9683
Photo of Matthew P Brandmeyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC, SEP
Matthew P Brandmeyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC, SEP
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66202
Not accepting new clients
Structured Support, LLC is a therapeutic practice specializing in helping individuals, families, couples, and organizations optimize mental health and well-being. The practice leans on a theoretical framework that combines social ecology, and neuroscience to understand environmental and physiologic factors that influence our mental health and intimate relationships.
Structured Support, LLC is a therapeutic practice specializing in helping individuals, families, couples, and organizations optimize mental health and well-being. The practice leans on a theoretical framework that combines social ecology, and neuroscience to understand environmental and physiologic factors that influence our mental health and intimate relationships.
(913) 828-2090 View (913) 828-2090
Photo of Erin Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Erin Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66049
Do you feel stuck? Unable to make decisions due to feeling overwhelmed? I get it. I too have felt this way. I know that sinking feeling of learning you have a chronic illness and will daily feel the pain, fatigue, and fear of "what's next?" Even worse, feeling that you have lost who you are and who you thought you always would be. It's enough to make even the strongest person feel like giving up. BUT...as someone who has personally fought this battle, I promise you that life can get better, in fact it can be great!
Do you feel stuck? Unable to make decisions due to feeling overwhelmed? I get it. I too have felt this way. I know that sinking feeling of learning you have a chronic illness and will daily feel the pain, fatigue, and fear of "what's next?" Even worse, feeling that you have lost who you are and who you thought you always would be. It's enough to make even the strongest person feel like giving up. BUT...as someone who has personally fought this battle, I promise you that life can get better, in fact it can be great!
(785) 728-4918 View (785) 728-4918
Photo of Heather Hargrove, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Heather Hargrove
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66212
Are you struggling with grief and loss? I can help. You may be experiencing waves of despair that are indescribable and feel overwhelming. I can help you navigate through such a difficult time. You deserve happiness. My goal is to work with you to meet your needs and to help you work through the pain towards healing. This is your first step to begin to heal and reconnect with yourself. I use evidenced-based techniques and interventions to help clients with not only grief, but also anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relational issues, and trauma.
Are you struggling with grief and loss? I can help. You may be experiencing waves of despair that are indescribable and feel overwhelming. I can help you navigate through such a difficult time. You deserve happiness. My goal is to work with you to meet your needs and to help you work through the pain towards healing. This is your first step to begin to heal and reconnect with yourself. I use evidenced-based techniques and interventions to help clients with not only grief, but also anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relational issues, and trauma.
(913) 490-0790 View (913) 490-0790
Photo of Thomas S Bartlett, Psychologist, PsyD
Thomas S Bartlett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
(785) 260-2747 View (785) 260-2747
Photo of Nick Butcher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS
Nick Butcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Nick Butcher and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Olathe, Kansas and working with clients statewide in KS, MO and FL via telehealth. I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues and substance use issues, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Based Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Hello, my name is Nick Butcher and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Olathe, Kansas and working with clients statewide in KS, MO and FL via telehealth. I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues and substance use issues, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Based Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(913) 565-7317 View (913) 565-7317
Photo of Lonnie Holt, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lonnie Holt
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
With an understanding of life stressors that are encountered through work, relationships, family, and life events, I combine extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy and other approaches to treat anxiety, depression, fears, and trauma. Working together as a team, each session builds on the last to seek real solutions for everyday and complex problems.
With an understanding of life stressors that are encountered through work, relationships, family, and life events, I combine extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy and other approaches to treat anxiety, depression, fears, and trauma. Working together as a team, each session builds on the last to seek real solutions for everyday and complex problems.
(913) 675-9592 View (913) 675-9592
Photo of Casey Gum, Counselor, MA, LPC, LMAC, NCC
Casey Gum
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMAC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66207
Are you exhausted and ready for change? Sometimes you don’t even have space to identify why you are feeling the way you do, but by slowing down and taking time to acknowledge your experiences, past and present, you can reengage with your story and discover what you need in order to live more wholly. We all crave connection and understanding, yet internal barriers often stand in our way. In therapy, we create a space where you can explore these barriers in a nurturing environment, fostering new ways of relating to yourself and those around you.
Are you exhausted and ready for change? Sometimes you don’t even have space to identify why you are feeling the way you do, but by slowing down and taking time to acknowledge your experiences, past and present, you can reengage with your story and discover what you need in order to live more wholly. We all crave connection and understanding, yet internal barriers often stand in our way. In therapy, we create a space where you can explore these barriers in a nurturing environment, fostering new ways of relating to yourself and those around you.
(913) 382-8357 View (913) 382-8357

See more therapy options for 66083

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 66083

< 10

Therapists in 66083 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Stress
71% Family Conflict
71% Self Esteem
71% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 66083 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 66083?

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.