Therapists in Kihei, HI

Photo of Tanya Noelle Gabriel, Counselor in Kihei, HI
Tanya Noelle Gabriel
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The human experience can be extremely challenging at times. With practice, you can learn to navigate the difficult parts of life with more ease, acceptance, and inner peace. I believe in the proven benefits of mindfulness-based therapies which is why my approach to therapy is hands on using therapy models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCB). I specialize in treating depression and anxiety disorders, and helping people navigate difficult life transitions.
The human experience can be extremely challenging at times. With practice, you can learn to navigate the difficult parts of life with more ease, acceptance, and inner peace. I believe in the proven benefits of mindfulness-based therapies which is why my approach to therapy is hands on using therapy models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCB). I specialize in treating depression and anxiety disorders, and helping people navigate difficult life transitions.
(808) 731-1167 View (808) 731-1167
Photo of Walles Wellness - Meghan Walles LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kihei, HI
Walles Wellness - Meghan Walles LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling stuck, unsure, or disconnected from your life? Are you just needing a confidential space to process the complexities of day to day? Individual therapy is a space for self development. Natural stressors occur in life. Therapy provides a confidential space to assure self care. At Walles Wellness, we acknowledge and honor the strength and courage it takes for someone to talk about themselves. We honor your journey.
Are you feeling stuck, unsure, or disconnected from your life? Are you just needing a confidential space to process the complexities of day to day? Individual therapy is a space for self development. Natural stressors occur in life. Therapy provides a confidential space to assure self care. At Walles Wellness, we acknowledge and honor the strength and courage it takes for someone to talk about themselves. We honor your journey.
(808) 219-0503 View (808) 219-0503
Photo of Mindful Living Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kihei, HI
Mindful Living Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
In need of support with your child or family during a difficult time? It's my passion to offer effective, research based interventions to support you in creating positive change. Utilizing a strengths-based approach & variety of modalities, my focus is to assist you & your family in achieving your goals by increasing effective communication & coping skills. With more than fifteen years of experience working with children & families to understand & process life changing events, human development, gender identity, diagnoses, grief, separation, behavioral difficulties, trauma, adoption, blended families & more, I am here to help.
In need of support with your child or family during a difficult time? It's my passion to offer effective, research based interventions to support you in creating positive change. Utilizing a strengths-based approach & variety of modalities, my focus is to assist you & your family in achieving your goals by increasing effective communication & coping skills. With more than fifteen years of experience working with children & families to understand & process life changing events, human development, gender identity, diagnoses, grief, separation, behavioral difficulties, trauma, adoption, blended families & more, I am here to help.
(808) 201-1466 View (808) 201-1466
Photo of Cathy Hembd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Cathy Hembd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Are you feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, angry or just dissatisfied with your relationships, your work, or your life? We all are conditioned by our experiences and impacted by genetics, but with awareness and compassion you can begin to make choices that are more fulfilling, satisfying and meaningful. The more we are able to meet the full range of our emotions and all aspects of our internal dialogue, the more freedom we have to be our genuine selves.
Are you feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, angry or just dissatisfied with your relationships, your work, or your life? We all are conditioned by our experiences and impacted by genetics, but with awareness and compassion you can begin to make choices that are more fulfilling, satisfying and meaningful. The more we are able to meet the full range of our emotions and all aspects of our internal dialogue, the more freedom we have to be our genuine selves.
(808) 518-2587 View (808) 518-2587
Photo of Portia Goyette, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Portia Goyette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
Not accepting new clients
Imagine facing the world with a sense of confidence and peace instead of fear or shame. Imagine looking at your partner and being filled with feelings of love, gratitude, and excitement. Imagine waking up to feel freed from your past and free to live your future! During periods of struggle, we can feel isolated and directionless in our experience and not where to turn or what to do. As a human, I understand suffering. As a therapist, my intention is to honor every part of your humanness and walk alongside you on the path towards wellness.
Imagine facing the world with a sense of confidence and peace instead of fear or shame. Imagine looking at your partner and being filled with feelings of love, gratitude, and excitement. Imagine waking up to feel freed from your past and free to live your future! During periods of struggle, we can feel isolated and directionless in our experience and not where to turn or what to do. As a human, I understand suffering. As a therapist, my intention is to honor every part of your humanness and walk alongside you on the path towards wellness.
(808) 201-0151 View (808) 201-0151
Photo of Lynn Porter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kihei, HI
Lynn Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you looking to make changes in your life, and are struggling with the same issues, I can help you find the right path for you. Working together we can identify obstacles to your goals and learn new behaviors to achieve what you are looking for.
If you looking to make changes in your life, and are struggling with the same issues, I can help you find the right path for you. Working together we can identify obstacles to your goals and learn new behaviors to achieve what you are looking for.
(808) 400-6895 View (808) 400-6895
Photo of Timothy Lindsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Timothy Lindsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Counseling can be a safe place to explore feelings and thoughts that are stressing you out. In this world there are obstacles and challenges that slow us down and can make it seem like you are alone in your struggles. You are not alone, I love to meet with people who desire to overcome mental illness, trauma, and relationship stress. With counseling we can explore ways to heal and grow. I work with adults, kids, teens, and families to help address life's bumps and bruises. Not currently accepting couples.
Counseling can be a safe place to explore feelings and thoughts that are stressing you out. In this world there are obstacles and challenges that slow us down and can make it seem like you are alone in your struggles. You are not alone, I love to meet with people who desire to overcome mental illness, trauma, and relationship stress. With counseling we can explore ways to heal and grow. I work with adults, kids, teens, and families to help address life's bumps and bruises. Not currently accepting couples.
(808) 645-4994 View (808) 645-4994
Photo of Stephanie Passamonte, Counselor in Kihei, HI
Stephanie Passamonte
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Are you seeking a compassionate connection to help you or your family navigate the complexities and challenges of life? We all face struggles that leave us overwhelmed or lost and reaching out is a courageous act of self-care and a powerful choice in support of your mental health. Together we can create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express your thoughts and emotions. Your unique journey will be met with empathy and understanding as we work together to establish your goals and discover your inner strengths.
Are you seeking a compassionate connection to help you or your family navigate the complexities and challenges of life? We all face struggles that leave us overwhelmed or lost and reaching out is a courageous act of self-care and a powerful choice in support of your mental health. Together we can create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express your thoughts and emotions. Your unique journey will be met with empathy and understanding as we work together to establish your goals and discover your inner strengths.
(808) 736-1950 View (808) 736-1950
Photo of Ann Van Patten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Ann Van Patten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life and relationships. We can work together to heal trauma from the past and be your best self. I provide a safe space to explore past experiences, relationships and belief systems you may feel are limiting you from experiencing your wholeness so you can live a joyful life. If you are struggling to cope with stress of life's transitions, I encourage you to reach out.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life and relationships. We can work together to heal trauma from the past and be your best self. I provide a safe space to explore past experiences, relationships and belief systems you may feel are limiting you from experiencing your wholeness so you can live a joyful life. If you are struggling to cope with stress of life's transitions, I encourage you to reach out.
(808) 518-4838 View (808) 518-4838
Photo of Jillian Lommori, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kihei, HI
Jillian Lommori
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
I believe that a safe, supportive and strong therapeutic relationship is vital to creating meaningful change. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation to see if we might be a good fit, I'd love to connect with you. Please feel free to call or email. For more information about me and my practice, please visit my website at the link below.
I believe that a safe, supportive and strong therapeutic relationship is vital to creating meaningful change. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation to see if we might be a good fit, I'd love to connect with you. Please feel free to call or email. For more information about me and my practice, please visit my website at the link below.
(808) 855-6596 View (808) 855-6596
Photo of Patricia Covici, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Patricia Covici
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Many people experience a deep sense of longing often described as a feeling of emptiness. What we use to fix or fill that emptiness can begin addictive processes like alcoholism, love addiction, and codependency. My approach is to meet that longing with compassion, understanding and love. Often the problem that causes us discomfort is an old way of coping that a part of us believes we need. Together we find the meaning that is generating or keeping the presenting symptom or problem in place and then move to swiftly create positive lasting change.
Many people experience a deep sense of longing often described as a feeling of emptiness. What we use to fix or fill that emptiness can begin addictive processes like alcoholism, love addiction, and codependency. My approach is to meet that longing with compassion, understanding and love. Often the problem that causes us discomfort is an old way of coping that a part of us believes we need. Together we find the meaning that is generating or keeping the presenting symptom or problem in place and then move to swiftly create positive lasting change.
(808) 495-0161 View (808) 495-0161
Photo of Graciela Dyangko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kihei, HI
Graciela Dyangko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
The expectations for women in this world can be overwhelming and challenging. Women can naturally multi-task and do it all with very little to no support or validation. With a holistic and strengths-based approach we will address stress, depression, anxiety, change, loss, grief and relationship challenges. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and other techniques to support and empower clients.
The expectations for women in this world can be overwhelming and challenging. Women can naturally multi-task and do it all with very little to no support or validation. With a holistic and strengths-based approach we will address stress, depression, anxiety, change, loss, grief and relationship challenges. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and other techniques to support and empower clients.
(808) 400-9138 View (808) 400-9138
Photo of Mark Cady, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Mark Cady
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Mark has experience working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to geriatrics. His experience has primarily occurred in private practice as well as hospital and community clinic settings. He specializes in Individual Adult, Youth and Couples Counseling. Mark’s approach is compassionate, direct, and inquisitive aiming to support clients in greater harmony and self actualization. Mark believes that you, the client, has the ability to change whatever you want to change. You will work together and Mark will guide along the way. It is work, it does take time, and you can make changes.
Mark has experience working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to geriatrics. His experience has primarily occurred in private practice as well as hospital and community clinic settings. He specializes in Individual Adult, Youth and Couples Counseling. Mark’s approach is compassionate, direct, and inquisitive aiming to support clients in greater harmony and self actualization. Mark believes that you, the client, has the ability to change whatever you want to change. You will work together and Mark will guide along the way. It is work, it does take time, and you can make changes.
(808) 278-9684 View (808) 278-9684
Photo of Christopher Skaggs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Christopher Skaggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, and relationships and people that struggle to effectively communicate their needs. Because of how they were brought up, or conditioned through experience, they might have vastly different ways of showing up in relationships, especially through conflict. We all want to work on what drives our behavior so that we can better understand ourselves and each other. This allows us to be vulnerable with one another and experience our real selves, so we can connect and love on a much deeper and more meaningful and satisfying level.
I work with individuals, and relationships and people that struggle to effectively communicate their needs. Because of how they were brought up, or conditioned through experience, they might have vastly different ways of showing up in relationships, especially through conflict. We all want to work on what drives our behavior so that we can better understand ourselves and each other. This allows us to be vulnerable with one another and experience our real selves, so we can connect and love on a much deeper and more meaningful and satisfying level.
(808) 646-3306 View (808) 646-3306
Photo of Jenny Grace Shaw, Counselor in Kihei, HI
Jenny Grace Shaw
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CSC, HHP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
We all experience speed bumps during our life journey. Though it may seem we are "lost"unsure of I believe the powers we are looking for are inside YOU! One simply needs to be validated, and to strengthen the emotional "muscles" that have grown weak--just as we exercise our bodies and our minds, we must exercise our emotional I truly believe we can not experience long term health unless we pay close attention to our Mind, Body and Spirit--the Emotional; our humanness. when we honor our truths, we will achieve our Authentic Self! I look forward to helping guide you towards your personal, goals. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOU
We all experience speed bumps during our life journey. Though it may seem we are "lost"unsure of I believe the powers we are looking for are inside YOU! One simply needs to be validated, and to strengthen the emotional "muscles" that have grown weak--just as we exercise our bodies and our minds, we must exercise our emotional I truly believe we can not experience long term health unless we pay close attention to our Mind, Body and Spirit--the Emotional; our humanness. when we honor our truths, we will achieve our Authentic Self! I look forward to helping guide you towards your personal, goals. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOU
(808) 736-4177 View (808) 736-4177
Photo of Meera Riitta Ojala, Counselor in Kihei, HI
Meera Riitta Ojala
Counselor, LPC2774, MHC-995
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
I am passionate about assisting people in clearing challenges and obstacles in order to allow growth and transformation to take place on physical, emotional, cognitive, relational, energetic and spiritual levels. I provide a safe space with compassionate presence where you can be authentically you, discover what is keeping you from moving forward and how to create health, balance and peace. I know from my own life challenges and illnesses how obstacles and losses in our lives can bring growth and transformation when we get support. After surviving two cancers I wrote the book “The Little Book of Hope” to spread seeds of Hope.
I am passionate about assisting people in clearing challenges and obstacles in order to allow growth and transformation to take place on physical, emotional, cognitive, relational, energetic and spiritual levels. I provide a safe space with compassionate presence where you can be authentically you, discover what is keeping you from moving forward and how to create health, balance and peace. I know from my own life challenges and illnesses how obstacles and losses in our lives can bring growth and transformation when we get support. After surviving two cancers I wrote the book “The Little Book of Hope” to spread seeds of Hope.
(720) 613-6221 x1 View (720) 613-6221 x1
Photo of Vince-Edwards Nubla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kihei, HI
Vince-Edwards Nubla
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Dr. Vince Nubla, PhD, LMFT–known as “Dr. Vince” in the community–is a licensed mental health therapist who has treated adults, teens, and children for the past twenty-three years. He has dedicated his practice to treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other emotional disorders. He offers various treatments options, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Behavioral Health Education. Dr. Vince also works with couples to improve their affection, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Dr. Vince Nubla, PhD, LMFT–known as “Dr. Vince” in the community–is a licensed mental health therapist who has treated adults, teens, and children for the past twenty-three years. He has dedicated his practice to treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other emotional disorders. He offers various treatments options, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Behavioral Health Education. Dr. Vince also works with couples to improve their affection, communication, and problem-solving skills.
(808) 427-5028 View (808) 427-5028
Photo of Marcie L Courter, Psychologist in Kihei, HI
Marcie L Courter
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
I am a licensed psychologist working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a person-centered approach to counseling that focuses on the biopsychosocial spiritual view of others. I practice from an integrative approach to diversity and multicultural aspects of treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an emphasis of treatment. I am a certified clinical trauma professional and a certified compassion fatigue specialist. I am also trained in CBT-I as well as play therapy. I can work with clients in person or via Thera-link an online platform.
I am a licensed psychologist working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a person-centered approach to counseling that focuses on the biopsychosocial spiritual view of others. I practice from an integrative approach to diversity and multicultural aspects of treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an emphasis of treatment. I am a certified clinical trauma professional and a certified compassion fatigue specialist. I am also trained in CBT-I as well as play therapy. I can work with clients in person or via Thera-link an online platform.
(808) 201-8152 View (808) 201-8152
Photo of Ryan Price, Counselor in Kihei, HI
Ryan Price
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with PTSD, childhood trauma, the aftermath of a recent traumatic event, depression, anxiety or more specific mental health conditions- I am here to support you every step of the way. My goal is not just to help you survive, but to thrive. Together, we'll work as a team to identify your strengths, uncover underlying patterns, and empower you to live a more fulfilling and balanced life. No matter what challenges you're facing, know that you don't have to face them alone.
Whether you're struggling with PTSD, childhood trauma, the aftermath of a recent traumatic event, depression, anxiety or more specific mental health conditions- I am here to support you every step of the way. My goal is not just to help you survive, but to thrive. Together, we'll work as a team to identify your strengths, uncover underlying patterns, and empower you to live a more fulfilling and balanced life. No matter what challenges you're facing, know that you don't have to face them alone.
(808) 862-2807 View (808) 862-2807
Photo of Dr. Heike Kholooci, Psychologist in Kihei, HI
Dr. Heike Kholooci
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
Not accepting new clients
If you look for relief from stress and emotional pain, or need help sorting things out, one of the kindest things you can do for yourself is to talk to an experienced and compassionate psychologist. Whether you are feeling stuck and overwhelmed, dealing with a disappointing relationship, or going through a difficult life transition, I can help you discover the path that is right for you. You don't have to do it alone. In a safe and supportive environment you can explore who you really are and what you want out of life, and learn the skills to make positive changes and improve your relationships.
If you look for relief from stress and emotional pain, or need help sorting things out, one of the kindest things you can do for yourself is to talk to an experienced and compassionate psychologist. Whether you are feeling stuck and overwhelmed, dealing with a disappointing relationship, or going through a difficult life transition, I can help you discover the path that is right for you. You don't have to do it alone. In a safe and supportive environment you can explore who you really are and what you want out of life, and learn the skills to make positive changes and improve your relationships.
(808) 427-0084 View (808) 427-0084

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kihei, HI

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kihei, HI who prioritize treating:

85% Depression
82% Anxiety
78% Relationship Issues
78% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
70% Grief
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Hawaii Medical Services Association
69% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association
68% University Health Alliance

How Therapists in Kihei, HI see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kihei?

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.