Therapists in 91007

Photo of Caitlin Susanne Bancroft Harrison - Mirror Moments Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Mirror Moments Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
Do you feel as though it's hard to slow down and rest? Do you feel like you have to earn love or calm? Do you experience shame around your sexuality? My clients tend to feel this way and it could be for a number of reasons. Maybe you're navigating religious trauma, maybe you don't feel safe unless you're "perfect", maybe you were a victim of purity culture... Bottom line is that you are looking for a space to feel heard and figure out how to experience more pleasure in life. I can help you to increase your self-esteem, advocate to get your needs met, and foster relationships that are life-giving and reciprocal.
Do you feel as though it's hard to slow down and rest? Do you feel like you have to earn love or calm? Do you experience shame around your sexuality? My clients tend to feel this way and it could be for a number of reasons. Maybe you're navigating religious trauma, maybe you don't feel safe unless you're "perfect", maybe you were a victim of purity culture... Bottom line is that you are looking for a space to feel heard and figure out how to experience more pleasure in life. I can help you to increase your self-esteem, advocate to get your needs met, and foster relationships that are life-giving and reciprocal.
(626) 548-6251 View (626) 548-6251
Photo of Sarah Zhang Park, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sarah Zhang Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought that you should be further along in life by now? As an Asian American, you feel unsatisfied with where you are currently at in life, but you don't know where you should be headed. You might even feel like you lack the confidence to pursue your dreams. Maybe you also struggle with finding yourself again after having a baby.
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought that you should be further along in life by now? As an Asian American, you feel unsatisfied with where you are currently at in life, but you don't know where you should be headed. You might even feel like you lack the confidence to pursue your dreams. Maybe you also struggle with finding yourself again after having a baby.
(626) 316-6150 View (626) 316-6150
Photo of Michelle Chan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Michelle Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ever feel like no matter what you do, you're never quite "good enough"? You keep trying but things don't seem to be changing? Are you feeling tired, frustrated, and out of ideas? One of the most painful things in life is feeling as though the ones who are suppose to be the closest to you don't know, understand, love, or support you. Maybe you have already tried to change things on your own, or maybe you see no point in trying at all because you can already predict what's going to happen.
Ever feel like no matter what you do, you're never quite "good enough"? You keep trying but things don't seem to be changing? Are you feeling tired, frustrated, and out of ideas? One of the most painful things in life is feeling as though the ones who are suppose to be the closest to you don't know, understand, love, or support you. Maybe you have already tried to change things on your own, or maybe you see no point in trying at all because you can already predict what's going to happen.
(626) 513-0812 View (626) 513-0812
Photo of Robyn Broadus, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Robyn Broadus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
Hello there! I'm Robyn. I am an EMDR and TRM-trained therapist and I greet you with gentleness and a smile. Perhaps you're noticing the way you're coping isn't working anymore? Maybe a trauma or stressor has put you over the edge? Maybe you yearn to feel good and/or finally heal those inner wounds? Whatever you are noticing right now, you are welcomed here and I would love to partner with you on this journey toward healing. My deep hope is that you can experience healing from distress, build your self-care and boundary muscles, and engage life with freedom, authenticity, and well-being.
Hello there! I'm Robyn. I am an EMDR and TRM-trained therapist and I greet you with gentleness and a smile. Perhaps you're noticing the way you're coping isn't working anymore? Maybe a trauma or stressor has put you over the edge? Maybe you yearn to feel good and/or finally heal those inner wounds? Whatever you are noticing right now, you are welcomed here and I would love to partner with you on this journey toward healing. My deep hope is that you can experience healing from distress, build your self-care and boundary muscles, and engage life with freedom, authenticity, and well-being.
(626) 499-5781 View (626) 499-5781
Photo of Gerald Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gerald Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, my name is Gerald Anderson. I am a licensed Therapist in California, an LMFT. I have worked as a therapist for a long time. Helping people from many diverse back grounds. I have worked with couples, individuals, and children, helping them to have the support and the tools to process and work through their problems, marital conflicts. I have also worked with drug involved individuals, who are in recovery and I am familiar with the 12 step process.
Hi, my name is Gerald Anderson. I am a licensed Therapist in California, an LMFT. I have worked as a therapist for a long time. Helping people from many diverse back grounds. I have worked with couples, individuals, and children, helping them to have the support and the tools to process and work through their problems, marital conflicts. I have also worked with drug involved individuals, who are in recovery and I am familiar with the 12 step process.
(626) 887-8327 View (626) 887-8327
Photo of Yafen Wu-Pang, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR AC, IFS-C, CSAT-S
Yafen Wu-Pang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR AC, IFS-C, CSAT-S
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You want to enjoy your relationships and reach your goals. However, some obstacles just keep blocking your success. Whether these obstacles are unresolved past issues, present crises, negative thoughts, challenging emotions, or unhealthy behaviors, they CAN be resolved and changed for the better. As a compassionate professional skilled in the therapeutic integration of brain science and many multimodal treatment approaches, I strive to provide a safe and effective environment for people to resolve their issues and find their strength.
You want to enjoy your relationships and reach your goals. However, some obstacles just keep blocking your success. Whether these obstacles are unresolved past issues, present crises, negative thoughts, challenging emotions, or unhealthy behaviors, they CAN be resolved and changed for the better. As a compassionate professional skilled in the therapeutic integration of brain science and many multimodal treatment approaches, I strive to provide a safe and effective environment for people to resolve their issues and find their strength.
(626) 513-8577 View (626) 513-8577
Photo of Anna Athanasoulis, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Anna Athanasoulis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Agapi Therapy, I bring both warmth and specialized expertise to my work with individuals and couples. I deeply believe in each person's capacity for growth and healing, approaching every therapeutic relationship with genuine optimism and dedication.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Agapi Therapy, I bring both warmth and specialized expertise to my work with individuals and couples. I deeply believe in each person's capacity for growth and healing, approaching every therapeutic relationship with genuine optimism and dedication.
(626) 669-4621 View (626) 669-4621
Photo of Timothy Malone, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Timothy Malone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My Name is Tim Malone. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Luis Obispo, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with teens, First Responders, the LGBTQIA2S+ population, and Teens and specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness, Somatic, and an eclectic mix of other therapies to help my clients work through limiting beliefs and negative experiences so that they can feel better and live fuller lives.
My Name is Tim Malone. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Luis Obispo, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with teens, First Responders, the LGBTQIA2S+ population, and Teens and specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness, Somatic, and an eclectic mix of other therapies to help my clients work through limiting beliefs and negative experiences so that they can feel better and live fuller lives.
(626) 323-8856 View (626) 323-8856
Photo of Shir Shanun, Psychologist, PsyD
Shir Shanun
Psychologist, PsyD
10 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
When we change ourselves we create change in our life and relationships. Therapy is a journey of self discovery to develop intimacy and create meaning in life and relationships. Gain new perspectives expand freedom and fulfillment. Through exploration of your past and present I will help you develop nurturing relationships with others and with your empathetic genuine self; connect with playfulness and creativity; understand repetition in your life; discover the unconscious role in your decisions ; experience intimacy and alleviate depression and anxiety as we transform suffering into growth. More at https://www.shirshanunpsyd.com
When we change ourselves we create change in our life and relationships. Therapy is a journey of self discovery to develop intimacy and create meaning in life and relationships. Gain new perspectives expand freedom and fulfillment. Through exploration of your past and present I will help you develop nurturing relationships with others and with your empathetic genuine self; connect with playfulness and creativity; understand repetition in your life; discover the unconscious role in your decisions ; experience intimacy and alleviate depression and anxiety as we transform suffering into growth. More at https://www.shirshanunpsyd.com
(626) 376-4994 View (626) 376-4994
Photo of Brenda Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brenda Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, my name is Brenda Davis. I am a licensed clinical social worker in California, Kentucky, Idaho, and Oregon with over 30 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work conflicts, and day-to-day problem-solving. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Hello, my name is Brenda Davis. I am a licensed clinical social worker in California, Kentucky, Idaho, and Oregon with over 30 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work conflicts, and day-to-day problem-solving. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
(626) 702-3657 View (626) 702-3657
Photo of Myesha Richardson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Myesha Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there I’m Myesha! My name is Myesha Richardson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress and anger management using CBT and Client Centered Therapy to help my clients make progress and feel better. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with; I most frequently use CBT and Client Centered Therapy as both modalities help me, and client build a relationship and shared understanding of their current needs.
Hi there I’m Myesha! My name is Myesha Richardson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress and anger management using CBT and Client Centered Therapy to help my clients make progress and feel better. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with; I most frequently use CBT and Client Centered Therapy as both modalities help me, and client build a relationship and shared understanding of their current needs.
(626) 316-6670 View (626) 316-6670
Photo of Theodora Byrne, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Theodora Byrne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that healing, growth, and change are available to all people, regardless of their present circumstances or past misfortune. I use a collaborative approach to therapy, to work with clients in understanding both their challenges and their goals, and together to find ways of making positive changes along the psychological, social, and biological axes of life. I believe that no one is an island, and that there is no shame in reaching out for help. On the contrary, doing so is an indicator of strength. I seek to provide an empathetic and intellectually engaged environment to cultivate insights and promote growth.
I believe that healing, growth, and change are available to all people, regardless of their present circumstances or past misfortune. I use a collaborative approach to therapy, to work with clients in understanding both their challenges and their goals, and together to find ways of making positive changes along the psychological, social, and biological axes of life. I believe that no one is an island, and that there is no shame in reaching out for help. On the contrary, doing so is an indicator of strength. I seek to provide an empathetic and intellectually engaged environment to cultivate insights and promote growth.
(818) 369-3720 View (818) 369-3720
Photo of Yolanda Rosas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Yolanda Rosas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Welcome! Sometimes it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and I am so glad you have made your way here. Everyday living can bring us to experience loss, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, and much more. Some experiences knock us down and shake us around a bit. As humans, we are wired for survival. So, when we are going through traumatic experiences our mind will go into survival mode sending such experiences to our subconscious to help us continue.
Welcome! Sometimes it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and I am so glad you have made your way here. Everyday living can bring us to experience loss, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, and much more. Some experiences knock us down and shake us around a bit. As humans, we are wired for survival. So, when we are going through traumatic experiences our mind will go into survival mode sending such experiences to our subconscious to help us continue.
(626) 606-2458 View (626) 606-2458
Photo of Grace Ou, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Grace Ou
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in the power of connection and relationships. Many times in our lives, we come into places where we get stuck, feel disconnected, and wonder about our place in this life. This can look like depression, anxiety, disconnection, broken relationships, or more.
I believe in the power of connection and relationships. Many times in our lives, we come into places where we get stuck, feel disconnected, and wonder about our place in this life. This can look like depression, anxiety, disconnection, broken relationships, or more.
(626) 667-2328 View (626) 667-2328
Photo of Johnny Zhong, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Johnny Zhong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Johnny Zhong, Trained EMDR, Specialized in couple therapy. A compassionate therapist, specializes in TRAUMA, body dysmorphic disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, grief. With a client-centered approach, Johnny offers therapy to both adults and children. Johnny incorporates play therapy, sound therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. This holistic treatment approach ensures comprehensive care for their clients.
Johnny Zhong, Trained EMDR, Specialized in couple therapy. A compassionate therapist, specializes in TRAUMA, body dysmorphic disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, grief. With a client-centered approach, Johnny offers therapy to both adults and children. Johnny incorporates play therapy, sound therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. This holistic treatment approach ensures comprehensive care for their clients.
(707) 610-1094 View (707) 610-1094
Photo of Rachel Grayczyk, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Rachel Grayczyk
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve tried therapy before but still find yourself wrestling an inner critic. Maybe you've developed coping strategies, but truly connecting with your emotions remains elusive. Perhaps you find yourself falling into old patterns of perfectionism or people-pleasing. If these scenarios strike a chord, I’m here to help. We'll work together to help you cultivate self-compassion and develop a felt sense of safety. I am an LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity-affirming provider. I strive to create a safe place to explore all aspects of identity. Together, we can examine the stories and systems that burdened you and uncover your truest self.
You’ve tried therapy before but still find yourself wrestling an inner critic. Maybe you've developed coping strategies, but truly connecting with your emotions remains elusive. Perhaps you find yourself falling into old patterns of perfectionism or people-pleasing. If these scenarios strike a chord, I’m here to help. We'll work together to help you cultivate self-compassion and develop a felt sense of safety. I am an LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity-affirming provider. I strive to create a safe place to explore all aspects of identity. Together, we can examine the stories and systems that burdened you and uncover your truest self.
(626) 746-4642 View (626) 746-4642
Photo of Doris Ng Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Doris Ng Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with your relationship with God? Do you find yourself isolating and feeling disconnected from others? Are you feeling at a loss with overwhelming emotions and are unsure where to turn? Now more than ever people of faith are recognizing the need to acknowledge their emotions rather than dismiss them and stay silent. As a Christian therapist, I offer a compassionate, Christ-centered approach to emotional, relational, and spiritual healing. My goal is to walk alongside individuals, couples, and families as they seek restoration, clarity, and healing.
Are you struggling with your relationship with God? Do you find yourself isolating and feeling disconnected from others? Are you feeling at a loss with overwhelming emotions and are unsure where to turn? Now more than ever people of faith are recognizing the need to acknowledge their emotions rather than dismiss them and stay silent. As a Christian therapist, I offer a compassionate, Christ-centered approach to emotional, relational, and spiritual healing. My goal is to walk alongside individuals, couples, and families as they seek restoration, clarity, and healing.
(818) 804-2463 View (818) 804-2463
Photo of Marycollette Ukattah, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Marycollette Ukattah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My name is MaryCollette Ukattah, better known as Mary. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I create a safe, non-judgmental space to explore yourself, your relationships, experiences, beliefs, and hopes. Everyone has a purpose, and I strive to inspire the discovery of your unique purpose. I encourage you to bring your whole self to therapy. Therapy should be a space where you can show up authentically without any fear of judgment. It should be a space where you feel heard, affirmed, and challenged. That is my approach to therapy.
My name is MaryCollette Ukattah, better known as Mary. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I create a safe, non-judgmental space to explore yourself, your relationships, experiences, beliefs, and hopes. Everyone has a purpose, and I strive to inspire the discovery of your unique purpose. I encourage you to bring your whole self to therapy. Therapy should be a space where you can show up authentically without any fear of judgment. It should be a space where you feel heard, affirmed, and challenged. That is my approach to therapy.
(909) 235-5832 View (909) 235-5832
Photo of Elizabeth (Betsy) Gerbert, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Elizabeth (Betsy) Gerbert
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) who graduated with an M.S. in clinical counseling from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. I have been practicing therapy for the past 15 years specializing in both individual and family therapy. I have worked with children, tweens, adolescents, and adults. My approach to therapy is tailored to you and/or your children’s needs. I approach therapy using concepts from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a family systems approach, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based skills.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) who graduated with an M.S. in clinical counseling from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. I have been practicing therapy for the past 15 years specializing in both individual and family therapy. I have worked with children, tweens, adolescents, and adults. My approach to therapy is tailored to you and/or your children’s needs. I approach therapy using concepts from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a family systems approach, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based skills.
(916) 237-8168 View (916) 237-8168
Photo of David Chung, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
David Chung
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel stuck in patterns of chronic shame or self-doubt? Maybe you’re struggling to find a sense of self-worth, feeling disconnected from the intimacy you crave, or navigating relationships that leave you questioning your needs. You might long for deeper connection and belonging, but you find yourself held back by fear or unresolved past experiences. If any of this feels familiar, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Do you feel stuck in patterns of chronic shame or self-doubt? Maybe you’re struggling to find a sense of self-worth, feeling disconnected from the intimacy you crave, or navigating relationships that leave you questioning your needs. You might long for deeper connection and belonging, but you find yourself held back by fear or unresolved past experiences. If any of this feels familiar, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
(510) 330-0465 View (510) 330-0465

See more therapy options for 91007

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 91007

70+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in 91007 who prioritize treating:

84% Anxiety
78% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
65% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills
65% Self Esteem
61% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
71% Optum
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 91007 see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 91007?

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.