Therapists in 70570

Photo of Alicia R Reed, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Alicia R Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Opelousas, LA 70570
The first sign of a serious struggle is often the condition of our relationships with others. Becoming reactive in an automatic, negative way can lead to shame and broken bonds with friends, family, and co-workers. "Why am I like this," you may ask. Loneliness, depression and social anxiety? Maybe we feel misunderstood by what we can't find words for. "But I had a great childhood," you may say. Unintentional wounds can be caused by good people in bad situations, and you may have unexplored pain to heal. Family alcoholism, abuse, ADHD, and trauma can further complicate the lives of adolescents and adults alike damaging self-esteem.
The first sign of a serious struggle is often the condition of our relationships with others. Becoming reactive in an automatic, negative way can lead to shame and broken bonds with friends, family, and co-workers. "Why am I like this," you may ask. Loneliness, depression and social anxiety? Maybe we feel misunderstood by what we can't find words for. "But I had a great childhood," you may say. Unintentional wounds can be caused by good people in bad situations, and you may have unexplored pain to heal. Family alcoholism, abuse, ADHD, and trauma can further complicate the lives of adolescents and adults alike damaging self-esteem.
(337) 326-4534 View (337) 326-4534
Photo of Brad L Sibille, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Brad L Sibille
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Opelousas, LA 70570
In over twenty years as I counselor I have seen with both young and old overcome the inner struggles that have held them back in life. I work with children and teens so that they can find success at home, school, and in life and help them with behavioral problems and struggles to make friends and socialize. I also provide therapy to both teens and adults struggling with anxiety issues, depression, stress, anger, addiction, and chemical dependency to help them find the freedom they seek. I use a combination of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Play Therapy which I adapt to the needs and preferences of the client.
In over twenty years as I counselor I have seen with both young and old overcome the inner struggles that have held them back in life. I work with children and teens so that they can find success at home, school, and in life and help them with behavioral problems and struggles to make friends and socialize. I also provide therapy to both teens and adults struggling with anxiety issues, depression, stress, anger, addiction, and chemical dependency to help them find the freedom they seek. I use a combination of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Play Therapy which I adapt to the needs and preferences of the client.
(337) 514-4928 View (337) 514-4928
Photo of Courtney Sandoz Copell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Courtney Sandoz Copell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Opelousas, LA 70570
I'm Courtney Copell, founder of Compass Counseling Services of South Louisiana. It is my mission to provide the best and most thorough care to my clients and their families. I work from an integrated perspective which includes a wide-range of evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I founded my practice on the belief that each client is unique and deserves comprehensive and individualized care. I believe that in order to experience optimal health, every component of the individual must be considered. Therefore, I operate from a holistic and client-centered approach where each client will have their own personalized program.
I'm Courtney Copell, founder of Compass Counseling Services of South Louisiana. It is my mission to provide the best and most thorough care to my clients and their families. I work from an integrated perspective which includes a wide-range of evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I founded my practice on the belief that each client is unique and deserves comprehensive and individualized care. I believe that in order to experience optimal health, every component of the individual must be considered. Therefore, I operate from a holistic and client-centered approach where each client will have their own personalized program.
(337) 376-0215 View (337) 376-0215
Photo of Patricia Beste Greene - Patricia Beste Greene Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Patricia Beste Greene Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Opelousas, LA 70570
I love helping people with the difficulties life throws at them. We all experience different issues, problems and difficulties at different times in our lives and I would love to assist, support and help anyone going through a difficult period or dealing with situations that prevent them from living their best life. Whether it be transitional situations, personal or relationship issues or times when life just seems harder than it should be—I am here to help in a non-judgmental, easy and relaxed way. I’m extremely friendly and easy to talk to and I love to meet and work with any and all types of people.
I love helping people with the difficulties life throws at them. We all experience different issues, problems and difficulties at different times in our lives and I would love to assist, support and help anyone going through a difficult period or dealing with situations that prevent them from living their best life. Whether it be transitional situations, personal or relationship issues or times when life just seems harder than it should be—I am here to help in a non-judgmental, easy and relaxed way. I’m extremely friendly and easy to talk to and I love to meet and work with any and all types of people.
(337) 358-6767 View (337) 358-6767
Photo of Andrea Olivier LeDee, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
Andrea Olivier LeDee
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that all people have the capacity to live well and to create the solutions they seek. My role as counselor is to hold the light as you find your own way. How do I do that? I create a warm, judgment-free space to be seen and heard, accepted and respected, challenged and nurtured. I offer a space where client and counselor work together using creative expression to make sense of thoughts and feelings and to gain clarity.
I believe that all people have the capacity to live well and to create the solutions they seek. My role as counselor is to hold the light as you find your own way. How do I do that? I create a warm, judgment-free space to be seen and heard, accepted and respected, challenged and nurtured. I offer a space where client and counselor work together using creative expression to make sense of thoughts and feelings and to gain clarity.
(337) 636-6381 View (337) 636-6381
Photo of Aimee LeJeune Scelfo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aimee LeJeune Scelfo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
If going to therapy is somewhat fearful, you are not alone. Most people do not know what to expect. Scientific research shows that psychotherapy works. Therapy can help you feel more comfortable being the real you. The goal of psychotherapy is not to change you. Change is your choice. It is to help build self-awareness, increase compassion, understanding, respect, empathy and acceptance toward yourself and others.
If going to therapy is somewhat fearful, you are not alone. Most people do not know what to expect. Scientific research shows that psychotherapy works. Therapy can help you feel more comfortable being the real you. The goal of psychotherapy is not to change you. Change is your choice. It is to help build self-awareness, increase compassion, understanding, respect, empathy and acceptance toward yourself and others.
(337) 467-7132 View (337) 467-7132
Photo of Alan D. Zaunbrecher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Alan D. Zaunbrecher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
What do you desire most? Many people are searching for peace and contentment, but finding that in today's world can be difficult. Having received specialized training in improving emotional connections, coupled with 17 years of counseling experience, has given me the skills necessary for helping people find the enjoyment of life they have been seeking.
What do you desire most? Many people are searching for peace and contentment, but finding that in today's world can be difficult. Having received specialized training in improving emotional connections, coupled with 17 years of counseling experience, has given me the skills necessary for helping people find the enjoyment of life they have been seeking.
(337) 243-1205 View (337) 243-1205
Photo of Hollie B French, Art Therapist, LPC, ATR
Hollie B French
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may function well on the outside—but inside, things feel harder than they “should.” Maybe your mind won’t slow down, you overthink, replay conversations, or find it hard to trust others. Patterns in relationships may keep repeating, or you simply feel stretched thin and exhausted. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m a trauma-focused art therapist working with children, teens, and adults. I support those managing the lingering effects of trauma, anxiety, or overwhelm. I also work with parents seeking help for their children or teens, and with overwhelmed moms who want to reconnect with themselves.
You may function well on the outside—but inside, things feel harder than they “should.” Maybe your mind won’t slow down, you overthink, replay conversations, or find it hard to trust others. Patterns in relationships may keep repeating, or you simply feel stretched thin and exhausted. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m a trauma-focused art therapist working with children, teens, and adults. I support those managing the lingering effects of trauma, anxiety, or overwhelm. I also work with parents seeking help for their children or teens, and with overwhelmed moms who want to reconnect with themselves.
(337) 376-0776 View (337) 376-0776
Photo of Bonnie Dupuis, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
Bonnie Dupuis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! Whether you’re new to therapy or seeking a better fit, I’m glad you’re here. I’m Bonnie Dupuis, a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinician at Clarté Counseling LLC. I am also Level II trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, with specialized expertise in working with complex relational issues, including affairs, addiction, trauma, and domestic violence.
Welcome! Whether you’re new to therapy or seeking a better fit, I’m glad you’re here. I’m Bonnie Dupuis, a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinician at Clarté Counseling LLC. I am also Level II trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, with specialized expertise in working with complex relational issues, including affairs, addiction, trauma, and domestic violence.
(337) 443-4938 View (337) 443-4938
Photo of Kristi Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kristi Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
I am certified and specialize in trauma treatment and therapy. I practice as a culturally sensitive therapist honoring the unique qualities of who we are. I have worked with law enforcement, first responders, and veteran communities throughout my years of practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana. I am a LGBTQ affirming therapist. I enjoy collaborating with and building skills for all neuro types. I provide compassionate and empathetic services to individuals, children, and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, loss, relationship problems, addiction recovery, and more.
I am certified and specialize in trauma treatment and therapy. I practice as a culturally sensitive therapist honoring the unique qualities of who we are. I have worked with law enforcement, first responders, and veteran communities throughout my years of practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana. I am a LGBTQ affirming therapist. I enjoy collaborating with and building skills for all neuro types. I provide compassionate and empathetic services to individuals, children, and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, loss, relationship problems, addiction recovery, and more.
(337) 510-5235 View (337) 510-5235
Photo of Dr. Kerri Prejean, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, RPT, LPC-S, NCC
Dr. Kerri Prejean
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, RPT, LPC-S, NCC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Worried about your child? Seeking help is the first courageous step as a caregiver! Assisting youth in navigating issues and witnessing them find their voice and unique gifts is the most rewarding part of my career. Anxiety, aggression, sadness, negative self views, unhealthy relationships, and living in a complex world are all experiences that can hinder your child from being their best self. I have worked with youth for over 23 years and remain amazed at their wonder and resiliency. I strive to create a safe and caring environment where your child can express themselves freely - allowing them to feel heard, valued, and understood.
Worried about your child? Seeking help is the first courageous step as a caregiver! Assisting youth in navigating issues and witnessing them find their voice and unique gifts is the most rewarding part of my career. Anxiety, aggression, sadness, negative self views, unhealthy relationships, and living in a complex world are all experiences that can hinder your child from being their best self. I have worked with youth for over 23 years and remain amazed at their wonder and resiliency. I strive to create a safe and caring environment where your child can express themselves freely - allowing them to feel heard, valued, and understood.
(337) 427-8576 View (337) 427-8576
Photo of Lisa LeMaster, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Lisa LeMaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
Most therapy teaches you to cope. Sometimes you need something more. You want to know why you're anxious, why you hate yourself, where the voice in your head came from that says you're not enough. That's different work, and it's what I do. I work with men who learned emotions mean weakness. LGBTQ+ people carrying shame about their identity. Trauma survivors raising children and determined to do it differently. People recovering from religious systems that demanded they hide who they are. You've been told who you are is wrong, and you're ready to understand how those messages got installed.
Most therapy teaches you to cope. Sometimes you need something more. You want to know why you're anxious, why you hate yourself, where the voice in your head came from that says you're not enough. That's different work, and it's what I do. I work with men who learned emotions mean weakness. LGBTQ+ people carrying shame about their identity. Trauma survivors raising children and determined to do it differently. People recovering from religious systems that demanded they hide who they are. You've been told who you are is wrong, and you're ready to understand how those messages got installed.
(504) 500-4757 View (504) 500-4757
Photo of Shantele H. Ledoux, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Shantele H. Ledoux
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and am dedicated to providing a safe, relaxing environment for you to express and explore issues/concerns. I enjoy working alongside others to reach their goals and believe in an individual's capacity for self growth and wellness. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, using a variety of modalities. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and am dedicated to providing a safe, relaxing environment for you to express and explore issues/concerns. I enjoy working alongside others to reach their goals and believe in an individual's capacity for self growth and wellness. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, using a variety of modalities. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(337) 284-4026 View (337) 284-4026
Photo of Kimana LeMaster, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kimana LeMaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Having to choose between the life you love and others' expectations is exhausting. You need a therapist who won't pathologize your choices and judge your lifestyle. You walk your own path—sexuality, relationships, spirituality—but get stuck in destructive patterns, sabotaging what you want, wondering if something's fundamentally wrong with you. Maybe past therapy left you feeling labeled. But you're ready to make a change. You're ready to break free from shame and reclaim your power and embody who you're meant to be. You deserve a therapist that gets it.
Having to choose between the life you love and others' expectations is exhausting. You need a therapist who won't pathologize your choices and judge your lifestyle. You walk your own path—sexuality, relationships, spirituality—but get stuck in destructive patterns, sabotaging what you want, wondering if something's fundamentally wrong with you. Maybe past therapy left you feeling labeled. But you're ready to make a change. You're ready to break free from shame and reclaim your power and embody who you're meant to be. You deserve a therapist that gets it.
(504) 222-1066 View (504) 222-1066
Photo of Martin Joseph Richard, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Martin Joseph Richard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Therapy can feel vulnerable and scary. I get that. My focus is on creating a safe space where you can take a break from shame and guilt and work towards effective, lasting changes that you create. You have value and potential, regardless of what situation you find yourself in currently.
Therapy can feel vulnerable and scary. I get that. My focus is on creating a safe space where you can take a break from shame and guilt and work towards effective, lasting changes that you create. You have value and potential, regardless of what situation you find yourself in currently.
(337) 454-5745 View (337) 454-5745
Photo of Kate Z. Doucet, MEd, MS, LPC
Kate Z. Doucet
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When you work hard in therapy and are compliant with medications, yet are still saddled with more anxiety, depression and difficulties making life work than you wish you had.....
When you work hard in therapy and are compliant with medications, yet are still saddled with more anxiety, depression and difficulties making life work than you wish you had.....
(337) 706-9825 View (337) 706-9825
Photo of Randi Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Randi Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Serves Area
Do you struggle communicating? Could this be because you grew up and never had someone genuinely check in on you or make your feelings a priority? Do you find it challenging to regulate your emotions? Do you often have goals and aspirations but find it difficult to begin working towards them, or somewhere along the way decide to do something different, and suddenly realize you have yet to make any progress? Has it been difficult for you to navigate relationships because you have not witnessed healthy and happy relationships? Do you desire to be the best version of yourself? If the answer was yes, let's get to work!
Do you struggle communicating? Could this be because you grew up and never had someone genuinely check in on you or make your feelings a priority? Do you find it challenging to regulate your emotions? Do you often have goals and aspirations but find it difficult to begin working towards them, or somewhere along the way decide to do something different, and suddenly realize you have yet to make any progress? Has it been difficult for you to navigate relationships because you have not witnessed healthy and happy relationships? Do you desire to be the best version of yourself? If the answer was yes, let's get to work!
(318) 706-5199 View (318) 706-5199
Photo of Mary F Huval, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Mary F Huval
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy to clients in the office as well as through Telehealth Services. I work from the belief that the human body and mind work together and constantly strive to find an inner peace and balance through self-healing. My role as a counselor is to help you create self-awareness, to facilitate the healing process, and to support you on your journey to finding your inner peace and life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults, addressing a wide range of challenges. My approach to counseling is holistic, trauma-focused, and strength-based. I utilize traditional modalities of therapy with clients as well as EMDR, DBR and IMTT.
I provide therapy to clients in the office as well as through Telehealth Services. I work from the belief that the human body and mind work together and constantly strive to find an inner peace and balance through self-healing. My role as a counselor is to help you create self-awareness, to facilitate the healing process, and to support you on your journey to finding your inner peace and life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults, addressing a wide range of challenges. My approach to counseling is holistic, trauma-focused, and strength-based. I utilize traditional modalities of therapy with clients as well as EMDR, DBR and IMTT.
(337) 324-9612 View (337) 324-9612
Photo of Jennifer A Glasscock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer A Glasscock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for effective professional mental health counseling you can trust and know will be guided from where you are to where you are hoping to find yourself? Be assured, we can help! Our therapists help make sense of where you are and how you arrived there. We'll journey together toward finding hope and healing so that you can live a healthy, content, and meaningful life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, anger, PTSD, spiritual matters, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marriage conflicts, addiction, or repeating the same behavioral patterns of self-destruction, there is HOPE for living healed.
Are you looking for effective professional mental health counseling you can trust and know will be guided from where you are to where you are hoping to find yourself? Be assured, we can help! Our therapists help make sense of where you are and how you arrived there. We'll journey together toward finding hope and healing so that you can live a healthy, content, and meaningful life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, anger, PTSD, spiritual matters, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marriage conflicts, addiction, or repeating the same behavioral patterns of self-destruction, there is HOPE for living healed.
(337) 347-8641 View (337) 347-8641
Photo of Rosalynn Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rosalynn Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, I'm Rosalynn, Therapy is a way to seek inner healing. I have worked in several environments to assist individuals with achieving their goals. In my free time, I enjoy working out and traveling with family. I studied at Northwestern State University for my undergraduate degree and at LSU for my masters degree. I'm happy to work with anyone who is ready to take the step to begin their healing journey. I specialize in working with both adolescents and adults.
Hi, I'm Rosalynn, Therapy is a way to seek inner healing. I have worked in several environments to assist individuals with achieving their goals. In my free time, I enjoy working out and traveling with family. I studied at Northwestern State University for my undergraduate degree and at LSU for my masters degree. I'm happy to work with anyone who is ready to take the step to begin their healing journey. I specialize in working with both adolescents and adults.
(225) 629-7960 View (225) 629-7960

See more therapy options for 70570

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 70570

20+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 70570 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
75% Stress
64% Grief
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 70570 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 70570?

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.