Therapists in New River, AZ

Photo of Julie Caldwell, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Caldwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New River, AZ 85087
Most personal struggles and relationship issues result from problems with the relationship with the self, rooted in relational injury experienced earlier in life. Therapy involves a dual process of understanding and healing the wounds we have experienced; and healing the relationship with the self. Identifying where we are off in our relationship with ourselves helps us to improve self-esteem; have healthy, fulfilling relationships; and take charge of the areas of our lives that feel unmanageable.
Most personal struggles and relationship issues result from problems with the relationship with the self, rooted in relational injury experienced earlier in life. Therapy involves a dual process of understanding and healing the wounds we have experienced; and healing the relationship with the self. Identifying where we are off in our relationship with ourselves helps us to improve self-esteem; have healthy, fulfilling relationships; and take charge of the areas of our lives that feel unmanageable.
(602) 497-3474 View (602) 497-3474
Photo of Allison MacDonald, LAC, LISAC, CCTSI, Counselor
Allison MacDonald
Counselor, LAC, LISAC, CCTSI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New River, AZ 85087
I have worked with a variety of individuals over the last 6+ years. I work well with anyone facing life’s struggles; either caused by substance use issues, as well as those managing depression and anxiety. I work with varying ages and backgrounds: people with criminal justice involvement, adolescents and also clients new to therapy. My focus is to plant a seed of hope and possibility; my desire is to help nurture new growth in all my clients!
I have worked with a variety of individuals over the last 6+ years. I work well with anyone facing life’s struggles; either caused by substance use issues, as well as those managing depression and anxiety. I work with varying ages and backgrounds: people with criminal justice involvement, adolescents and also clients new to therapy. My focus is to plant a seed of hope and possibility; my desire is to help nurture new growth in all my clients!
(602) 932-6737 View (602) 932-6737
Photo of Jennifer Gonzalez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New River, AZ 85027
My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood and empowered. I truly believe trust is the foundation of any therapeutic relationship and I am committed to earning that trust through openness, honesty and genuine care. Whether you’re facing challenges or simply seeking a space to explore your thoughts and emotions, I am here to walk alongside you.
My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood and empowered. I truly believe trust is the foundation of any therapeutic relationship and I am committed to earning that trust through openness, honesty and genuine care. Whether you’re facing challenges or simply seeking a space to explore your thoughts and emotions, I am here to walk alongside you.
(928) 427-7560 View (928) 427-7560
Photo of April Swortzel, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
April Swortzel
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
New River, AZ 85087
Not accepting new clients
Life can be overwhelming, and when anxiety takes hold, it can consume our thoughts and make it difficult to live the life we truly want. Navigating life's challenges whether it's dealing with stress, managing relationships, or coping with past trauma can feel daunting and exhausting. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. My approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. These methods help you develop practical skills to manage anxiety, regulate emotions, and make positive changes in your life.
Life can be overwhelming, and when anxiety takes hold, it can consume our thoughts and make it difficult to live the life we truly want. Navigating life's challenges whether it's dealing with stress, managing relationships, or coping with past trauma can feel daunting and exhausting. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. My approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. These methods help you develop practical skills to manage anxiety, regulate emotions, and make positive changes in your life.
(928) 436-6247 View (928) 436-6247
Photo of Leslie M Relkin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie M Relkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New River, AZ 85087
Hi, my name is Leslie. 15 years ago my husband was killed in a car accident while I was pregnant with our child. I was broken and did not know if I would ever feel happiness again. With the help of therapy I learned the tools I needed to heal, feel happiness again and even thrive. Today I want to help teach you these tools. Trauma and grief can be overwhelming and debilitating. I am a trauma specialist and I can help you make the stress, anxiety, depression and PTSD from a trauma experience greatly reduced. You are not alone.
Hi, my name is Leslie. 15 years ago my husband was killed in a car accident while I was pregnant with our child. I was broken and did not know if I would ever feel happiness again. With the help of therapy I learned the tools I needed to heal, feel happiness again and even thrive. Today I want to help teach you these tools. Trauma and grief can be overwhelming and debilitating. I am a trauma specialist and I can help you make the stress, anxiety, depression and PTSD from a trauma experience greatly reduced. You are not alone.
(928) 235-9142 View (928) 235-9142

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sonia Jurek, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonia Jurek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
I enjoy working with couples and families as I feel that this is where I can be most impactful and the most change can be made. I have a great deal of experience working with couples on issues related to everything from basic communication to issues like infidelity and trust. I also enjoy working with individuals to help them develop a greater sense of happiness in their lives or to aid them in managing symptoms related to depression, anxiety or daily life stressors. I am also able to effectively work with parents to help foster parenting skills and help parents manage behavioral concerns and effectively co-parent their children.
I enjoy working with couples and families as I feel that this is where I can be most impactful and the most change can be made. I have a great deal of experience working with couples on issues related to everything from basic communication to issues like infidelity and trust. I also enjoy working with individuals to help them develop a greater sense of happiness in their lives or to aid them in managing symptoms related to depression, anxiety or daily life stressors. I am also able to effectively work with parents to help foster parenting skills and help parents manage behavioral concerns and effectively co-parent their children.
(623) 414-9299 View (623) 414-9299
Photo of Monica Cawley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Cawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
I work with adults, teens, families, and couples. I love working with the family system. When one part of the family is struggling the whole family feels it. Whether our work is individually or with the family I work with clients from a family systems lens to support growth and healing that impacts the family as a whole. Often my clients have experienced a trauma or life altering event and they just need support getting to the next step. I offer various modalities to meet you where you're at so that you can find your own path of healing.
I work with adults, teens, families, and couples. I love working with the family system. When one part of the family is struggling the whole family feels it. Whether our work is individually or with the family I work with clients from a family systems lens to support growth and healing that impacts the family as a whole. Often my clients have experienced a trauma or life altering event and they just need support getting to the next step. I offer various modalities to meet you where you're at so that you can find your own path of healing.
(623) 500-6598 View (623) 500-6598
Photo of Nicole Frost (North Phoenix), LCSW, CSAT, CPTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Frost (North Phoenix)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
Therapy takes courage. Every time a client walks in my door whether it's for an initial consultation or after a year of weekly sessions, I have great respect for them. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you move in the direction you want to go, providing support and insight along the way. If you are searching for a solution and have the tiniest motivation to change, I commit to helping you increase the quality of your life. By identifying current life stressors and dysfunction, we will explore the impact on your relationship with self and others.
Therapy takes courage. Every time a client walks in my door whether it's for an initial consultation or after a year of weekly sessions, I have great respect for them. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you move in the direction you want to go, providing support and insight along the way. If you are searching for a solution and have the tiniest motivation to change, I commit to helping you increase the quality of your life. By identifying current life stressors and dysfunction, we will explore the impact on your relationship with self and others.
(520) 842-0474 View (520) 842-0474
Photo of Caroline Olotu - ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic
DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
(602) 693-1243 View (602) 693-1243
Photo of Cindy Guzman, MS, LAC, Counselor
Cindy Guzman
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Life can be inspiring, beautiful, and meaningful. Unfortunately, it can also be tough. For many of us, the path can become muddled with pain, loss, sadness, and uncertainty. Do you struggle to find your purpose, strengths, voice, or simply you? You’re not alone. Fortunately, you do not need to take the path toward healing alone. Together, we can work through challenges, improve your self-confidence, and bring more positive experiences into your life.
Life can be inspiring, beautiful, and meaningful. Unfortunately, it can also be tough. For many of us, the path can become muddled with pain, loss, sadness, and uncertainty. Do you struggle to find your purpose, strengths, voice, or simply you? You’re not alone. Fortunately, you do not need to take the path toward healing alone. Together, we can work through challenges, improve your self-confidence, and bring more positive experiences into your life.
(602) 833-5797 View (602) 833-5797
Photo of Jill Monson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Monson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
I believe it is imperative that we broaden our definition of "trauma." Trauma can be ANYTHING disruptive (in addition to assault, combat, death, etc.). An unhealthy relationship; a break-up; bullying; neglect; a stressful event or period of time are all traumatic. These disruptive experiences influence what we think about ourselves and our world; and they often guide our decisions and perspectives.
I believe it is imperative that we broaden our definition of "trauma." Trauma can be ANYTHING disruptive (in addition to assault, combat, death, etc.). An unhealthy relationship; a break-up; bullying; neglect; a stressful event or period of time are all traumatic. These disruptive experiences influence what we think about ourselves and our world; and they often guide our decisions and perspectives.
(602) 560-2359 View (602) 560-2359
Photo of Norma Barkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Norma Barkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, personality disorders, interpersonal issues, and relationship issues. I utilize a variety of approaches to address my client's individual needs using different therapeutic approaches including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide telehealth services.
My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, personality disorders, interpersonal issues, and relationship issues. I utilize a variety of approaches to address my client's individual needs using different therapeutic approaches including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide telehealth services.
(602) 483-6291 View (602) 483-6291
Photo of Diana Lugo, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Diana Lugo
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Are you or someone in your family struggling with conflict, anxiety, depression, divorce, or some other life change? Is your child or teen struggling to manage emotions or having behavioral issues? These issues can impact your family, friendships, work, and other daily life areas. This can be an overwhelming and confusing time for everyone in the family and you or your child may be feeling exhausted and have little hope that it can change. I take will a holistic approach to helping you find solutions that work and strategies that are specific to your circumstances.
Are you or someone in your family struggling with conflict, anxiety, depression, divorce, or some other life change? Is your child or teen struggling to manage emotions or having behavioral issues? These issues can impact your family, friendships, work, and other daily life areas. This can be an overwhelming and confusing time for everyone in the family and you or your child may be feeling exhausted and have little hope that it can change. I take will a holistic approach to helping you find solutions that work and strategies that are specific to your circumstances.
(602) 461-8520 View (602) 461-8520
Photo of Ashlea Taylor-Barber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashlea Taylor-Barber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Are you seeking an unbiased person open to listening and discussing your thoughts? Sometimes we all need that! Life often brings us curve balls in the form of relational, career, racial, marital or family conflict that cause us to question who we are. These situations rattle our emotions to our core or change the normality that we call our life. During these times the ability to work through this with someone who specializes in transitional change maybe the answer!
Are you seeking an unbiased person open to listening and discussing your thoughts? Sometimes we all need that! Life often brings us curve balls in the form of relational, career, racial, marital or family conflict that cause us to question who we are. These situations rattle our emotions to our core or change the normality that we call our life. During these times the ability to work through this with someone who specializes in transitional change maybe the answer!
(602) 560-7933 View (602) 560-7933
Photo of Natalie Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
My professional passion is to help people achieve an improved quality of life through the use of a person centered humanistic approach. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression and life changes benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). All services are provided in a manner which is gender inclusive. Successful therapy is achieved by developing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients and using a collaborative approach to health and well-being.
My professional passion is to help people achieve an improved quality of life through the use of a person centered humanistic approach. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression and life changes benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). All services are provided in a manner which is gender inclusive. Successful therapy is achieved by developing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients and using a collaborative approach to health and well-being.
(928) 444-8038 View (928) 444-8038
Photo of Erica Trocino, LPC-S, CEDS-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Trocino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
In Buddhist philosophy, "pain is inevitable, suffering is optional." The story of the Buddha and the two arrows explains this well – while the first arrow may cause physical or emotional pain, the second arrow is one’s reaction to it – the self-talk, the self-blame, and negative thoughts that amplify the pain. Counseling can help you put down the second arrow and transform your suffering into growth, learning and resilience.
In Buddhist philosophy, "pain is inevitable, suffering is optional." The story of the Buddha and the two arrows explains this well – while the first arrow may cause physical or emotional pain, the second arrow is one’s reaction to it – the self-talk, the self-blame, and negative thoughts that amplify the pain. Counseling can help you put down the second arrow and transform your suffering into growth, learning and resilience.
(602) 550-1972 View (602) 550-1972
Photo of Don Gudeman, MABC, CFTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Don Gudeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MABC, CFTP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85086
Most of Don's clients are people who identify as Christians who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or addictions while some of them may seek only spiritual guidance and practical application. They are generally seeking someone who is extremely knowledgeable, well educated, and experienced. These are generally people who are looking for someone they can trust and confide in without the fear of being judged. They usually want help navigating life in order to experience personal healing and growth without compromising their values.
Most of Don's clients are people who identify as Christians who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or addictions while some of them may seek only spiritual guidance and practical application. They are generally seeking someone who is extremely knowledgeable, well educated, and experienced. These are generally people who are looking for someone they can trust and confide in without the fear of being judged. They usually want help navigating life in order to experience personal healing and growth without compromising their values.
(602) 833-5139 View (602) 833-5139
Photo of Jillian Caldwell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
(623) 745-8641 View (623) 745-8641
Photo of Rebecca Jennings, LPC, Counselor
Rebecca Jennings
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Hello, I am the owner of Counseling Embodied, a private practice in the Glendale / Peoria area. We have immediate availability & offer sessions both virtually and in-person. I work with individuals (18+) and couples. I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, ADHD, identity issues, chronic health issues, and trauma. I work with couples who struggle with intimacy, connection, communication, and family stressors (pregnancy and birth, blended family, conflicting parenting approaches). Note: I do not accept insurance for couples treatment. I have advanced training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Hello, I am the owner of Counseling Embodied, a private practice in the Glendale / Peoria area. We have immediate availability & offer sessions both virtually and in-person. I work with individuals (18+) and couples. I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, ADHD, identity issues, chronic health issues, and trauma. I work with couples who struggle with intimacy, connection, communication, and family stressors (pregnancy and birth, blended family, conflicting parenting approaches). Note: I do not accept insurance for couples treatment. I have advanced training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
(623) 294-9602 View (623) 294-9602
Photo of Kristen Liptow, LAC, Counselor
Kristen Liptow
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85086
As a dedicated counselor, I'm here to help you achieve your goals. We all have our own unique journey, facing different challenges along the way. Sometimes, these challenges require learning new skills, processing the past, or simply seeking support. I provide a stable and supportive space for you to explore who you are and overcome these obstacles. By working together, you can see your progress and make choices that lead you toward your potential. Your journey is important, and I'm here to guide you towards a path of growth and fulfillment.
As a dedicated counselor, I'm here to help you achieve your goals. We all have our own unique journey, facing different challenges along the way. Sometimes, these challenges require learning new skills, processing the past, or simply seeking support. I provide a stable and supportive space for you to explore who you are and overcome these obstacles. By working together, you can see your progress and make choices that lead you toward your potential. Your journey is important, and I'm here to guide you towards a path of growth and fulfillment.
(928) 228-4429 View (928) 228-4429

See more therapy options for New River

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New River, AZ

< 10

Therapists in New River, AZ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Self Esteem
100% Stress
80% Relationship Issues
80% Grief
80% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New River, AZ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New River?

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.