Therapists in Briarwood, Little Rock, AR

Photo of A. Alex Assadi, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, GCDF
A. Alex Assadi
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, GCDF
3 Endorsed
Briarwood, Little Rock, AR 72205
We all have problems and everyone needs help at times. With more than 12 years experience, I provide professional/confidential mental health services to diverse persons. I do not discriminate based on ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or personal identification and believe that through connection and compassion we can resolve any problem together. Our past experiences do not define us and our future is not yet written. Help is available and you are not alone. Let's work towards building your life the way it was always meant to be: authentic, fulfilling and empowered. Let's find/develop the best version of yourself!
We all have problems and everyone needs help at times. With more than 12 years experience, I provide professional/confidential mental health services to diverse persons. I do not discriminate based on ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or personal identification and believe that through connection and compassion we can resolve any problem together. Our past experiences do not define us and our future is not yet written. Help is available and you are not alone. Let's work towards building your life the way it was always meant to be: authentic, fulfilling and empowered. Let's find/develop the best version of yourself!
(501) 404-9928 View (501) 404-9928
Photo of Jamie Gordon, Counselor, LPC-S
Jamie Gordon
Counselor, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Briarwood, Little Rock, AR 72205
In our work together, we’ll get curious about the beliefs and patterns that developed in important relationships throughout childhood and even into adulthood. Many of the ways you cope today began as strategies to survive difficult experiences. Together, we’ll explore how those strategies developed and whether they are still helping you live the life you want. You may find yourself numbing with substances or other distractions, holding back in relationships out of fear of rejection, or repeating patterns that leave you feeling disconnected or misunderstood. Rather than judging these responses, we’ll work to understand them.
In our work together, we’ll get curious about the beliefs and patterns that developed in important relationships throughout childhood and even into adulthood. Many of the ways you cope today began as strategies to survive difficult experiences. Together, we’ll explore how those strategies developed and whether they are still helping you live the life you want. You may find yourself numbing with substances or other distractions, holding back in relationships out of fear of rejection, or repeating patterns that leave you feeling disconnected or misunderstood. Rather than judging these responses, we’ll work to understand them.
(501) 842-7711 View (501) 842-7711
Photo of Andre' P Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andre' P Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Briarwood, Little Rock, AR 72205
Do you feel "stuck"? Are you tired of struggling with, or worse yet, avoiding things that have bothered you for a while? Are there things in your life you cannot seem to get past? Are you ready to be your best you? Is your relationship not where it once was, or where you would like it to be now?
Do you feel "stuck"? Are you tired of struggling with, or worse yet, avoiding things that have bothered you for a while? Are there things in your life you cannot seem to get past? Are you ready to be your best you? Is your relationship not where it once was, or where you would like it to be now?
(501) 456-4025 View (501) 456-4025
Photo of Rachel Holladay - Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT200
Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT200
Serves Area
Hi there! We are now accepting new clients. At Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective, we believe in the transformative power of a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being. Our mission is to provide personalized, compassionate care that addresses the unique needs of each individual, from adolescents to adults. We understand that mental health is interconnected with physical, emotional, and social aspects of life. Our team of experienced counselors and nutritionists employ a wide range of therapeutic techniques tailored to support clients through their unique journeys.
Hi there! We are now accepting new clients. At Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective, we believe in the transformative power of a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being. Our mission is to provide personalized, compassionate care that addresses the unique needs of each individual, from adolescents to adults. We understand that mental health is interconnected with physical, emotional, and social aspects of life. Our team of experienced counselors and nutritionists employ a wide range of therapeutic techniques tailored to support clients through their unique journeys.
(501) 984-9864 View (501) 984-9864
Photo of Samuel Adkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Samuel Adkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I have 15 years of experience working with adults and children as an LCSW. I use a variety of approaches to address whatever it is you are looking for. I enjoy learning about others' experiences and allowing you to be in control of your life while building therapeutic relationships. I am just a regular guy working as an everyday therapist.
I have 15 years of experience working with adults and children as an LCSW. I use a variety of approaches to address whatever it is you are looking for. I enjoy learning about others' experiences and allowing you to be in control of your life while building therapeutic relationships. I am just a regular guy working as an everyday therapist.
(870) 606-2985 View (870) 606-2985
Photo of Charlie Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Charlie Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you tired of going through the motions in life or your relationship? Feeling STUCK or simply worried? My approach has helped hundreds couples and individuals overcome strenuous challenges and master the skills to maintain healthy relationships and lifestyles. My approach is simple, I use evidence-based tools and models to help couples and individuals target personal growth. I'm currently completing supervision for Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused couples therapy which is greatly utilized during sessions.
Are you tired of going through the motions in life or your relationship? Feeling STUCK or simply worried? My approach has helped hundreds couples and individuals overcome strenuous challenges and master the skills to maintain healthy relationships and lifestyles. My approach is simple, I use evidence-based tools and models to help couples and individuals target personal growth. I'm currently completing supervision for Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused couples therapy which is greatly utilized during sessions.
(501) 235-8736 View (501) 235-8736
Photo of Anna Grace Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anna Grace Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I am passionate about working with teenagers and adults navigating hardships in their lives and consider it a privilege to walk alongside them. I have experience helping individuals recover from addiction and establish sobriety/recovery from substance abuse and eating disorders. I find it an honor to support individuals as they navigate codependency, familial discord, spousal discord, betrayal trauma, grief-induced anger, life transitions, reintegration into society after incarceration, anxiety, and depression. It brings me joy to help others heal, establish boundaries and coping skills, find their voice, and process their emotions.
I am passionate about working with teenagers and adults navigating hardships in their lives and consider it a privilege to walk alongside them. I have experience helping individuals recover from addiction and establish sobriety/recovery from substance abuse and eating disorders. I find it an honor to support individuals as they navigate codependency, familial discord, spousal discord, betrayal trauma, grief-induced anger, life transitions, reintegration into society after incarceration, anxiety, and depression. It brings me joy to help others heal, establish boundaries and coping skills, find their voice, and process their emotions.
(501) 365-9990 View (501) 365-9990
Photo of Antionne Dewayne Alcorn, Licensed Professional Counselor, DHA, LPC, DCC
Antionne Dewayne Alcorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, DHA, LPC, DCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't THRIVING in life as you should. Whatever your needs may be, THRIVE is here to offer support. Therapy is a process of self growth and self-discovery. During sessions behavioral transformation is promoted by encouraging clients to identify new and different strategies to overcome challenges. THRIVE provides the skills and professional experience to help you THRIVE instead of just surviving. THRIVE offers services to children, youth, and adults.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't THRIVING in life as you should. Whatever your needs may be, THRIVE is here to offer support. Therapy is a process of self growth and self-discovery. During sessions behavioral transformation is promoted by encouraging clients to identify new and different strategies to overcome challenges. THRIVE provides the skills and professional experience to help you THRIVE instead of just surviving. THRIVE offers services to children, youth, and adults.
(501) 712-2276 View (501) 712-2276
Photo of Jessica Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, OTR
Jessica Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, OTR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a sex therapist, I work at the intersection of sexuality, identity, and meaning. I’m not here to pathologize your sexuality or pull you into a trauma narrative. I’m here to explore what your present experience is telling you about who you are and what you want. I offer a grounded, honest space for adults who are navigating questions about identity, meaning, relationships, and the parts of their lives that no longer fit. My approach is straightforward: we slow down, look at what’s happening, and what’s true beneath the story or the performance.
As a sex therapist, I work at the intersection of sexuality, identity, and meaning. I’m not here to pathologize your sexuality or pull you into a trauma narrative. I’m here to explore what your present experience is telling you about who you are and what you want. I offer a grounded, honest space for adults who are navigating questions about identity, meaning, relationships, and the parts of their lives that no longer fit. My approach is straightforward: we slow down, look at what’s happening, and what’s true beneath the story or the performance.
(501) 391-3612 View (501) 391-3612
Photo of Dr. Stevie Mae Douglas, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Stevie Mae Douglas
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I am a licensed psychologist and combat veteran. I blend these worlds to offer a warm, direct approach with gentle challenges and goal-oriented movement. Additionally, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to spend time cultivating a space where you feel heard, seen, accepted, supported, challenged, and celebrated. Although my clinical background varies across populations, my passion is working with adults who have experienced prolonged childhood trauma and who are subsequently seeking healing and change for their current lives.
I am a licensed psychologist and combat veteran. I blend these worlds to offer a warm, direct approach with gentle challenges and goal-oriented movement. Additionally, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to spend time cultivating a space where you feel heard, seen, accepted, supported, challenged, and celebrated. Although my clinical background varies across populations, my passion is working with adults who have experienced prolonged childhood trauma and who are subsequently seeking healing and change for their current lives.
(501) 267-9447 View (501) 267-9447
Photo of Rachel Elizabeth Holladay, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rachel Elizabeth Holladay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I work with individuals looking to understand themselves on a deeper level. If you would like to obtain more awareness and insight into your life and why you feel the way you feel; I'm here to help. I offer a judgment free zone where authenticity is not only welcomed but cherished.
I work with individuals looking to understand themselves on a deeper level. If you would like to obtain more awareness and insight into your life and why you feel the way you feel; I'm here to help. I offer a judgment free zone where authenticity is not only welcomed but cherished.
(501) 501-9049 View (501) 501-9049
Photo of Candace Nisbett Mccallister, Counselor, LPC
Candace Nisbett Mccallister
Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients who are currently facing major life changes or who have trauma from experiences in their past that are affecting their day to day lives. I am a widow and mother of three; and, having walked through hell myself, now hold space for others doing the same. The purpose of therapy is to help your nervous system to calm down so that you can move out of the ups and downs of depression and anxiety and into a calmer, more empowered way of living.
I work with clients who are currently facing major life changes or who have trauma from experiences in their past that are affecting their day to day lives. I am a widow and mother of three; and, having walked through hell myself, now hold space for others doing the same. The purpose of therapy is to help your nervous system to calm down so that you can move out of the ups and downs of depression and anxiety and into a calmer, more empowered way of living.
(812) 366-9102 View (812) 366-9102
Photo of Lisa Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™, ICST
Lisa Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™, ICST
Serves Area
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming—for both children and adults. Whether you’re watching your child struggle with anxiety or navigating your own life transition, it can be hard to find balance and peace. You don’t have to face it alone. With over 20 years of experience in schools, clinics, and private practice, I specialize in supporting children and adults experiencing anxiety, emotional dysregulation, grief, and adjustment difficulties. My approach helps clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and rediscover confidence in themselves and their relationships.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming—for both children and adults. Whether you’re watching your child struggle with anxiety or navigating your own life transition, it can be hard to find balance and peace. You don’t have to face it alone. With over 20 years of experience in schools, clinics, and private practice, I specialize in supporting children and adults experiencing anxiety, emotional dysregulation, grief, and adjustment difficulties. My approach helps clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and rediscover confidence in themselves and their relationships.
(501) 285-8209 View (501) 285-8209
Photo of Tiffany Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tiffany Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I offer a safe and comfortable space where you can be your full self without fear of judgment. Being a whole and healthy person in our world can be hard, but with support in your corner it is doable, and worth the work. I know that working to make positive changes can often be met with challenges on all sides. My goal is to meet clients where they are by remaining open and compassionate to each individual’s struggles, and then walk with them towards the life they want to create.
Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I offer a safe and comfortable space where you can be your full self without fear of judgment. Being a whole and healthy person in our world can be hard, but with support in your corner it is doable, and worth the work. I know that working to make positive changes can often be met with challenges on all sides. My goal is to meet clients where they are by remaining open and compassionate to each individual’s struggles, and then walk with them towards the life they want to create.
(501) 434-4790 View (501) 434-4790
Photo of Rebecca Joy Barhorst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Rebecca Joy Barhorst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling stuck in cycles of anxiety, trauma, or intrusive thoughts? Maybe your reactions don’t match the present moment, or fears keep you from moving forward. Many clients feel overwhelmed or disconnected from themselves. You’re not alone—and with trauma-focused therapy, it’s possible to regain control and find relief.
Feeling stuck in cycles of anxiety, trauma, or intrusive thoughts? Maybe your reactions don’t match the present moment, or fears keep you from moving forward. Many clients feel overwhelmed or disconnected from themselves. You’re not alone—and with trauma-focused therapy, it’s possible to regain control and find relief.
(513) 790-5909 View (513) 790-5909
Photo of Katie Resneder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katie Resneder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or self-esteem issues. They may feel overwhelmed, unable to manage stress, or maintain healthy relationships, often trapped in negative patterns. Their needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to express emotions, explore their struggles, and gain tools for coping. They seek to improve their relationships, set boundaries, and build resilience. Ultimately, they want emotional stability, increased self-worth, and a life aligned with their values, moving toward healing and fulfillment.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or self-esteem issues. They may feel overwhelmed, unable to manage stress, or maintain healthy relationships, often trapped in negative patterns. Their needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to express emotions, explore their struggles, and gain tools for coping. They seek to improve their relationships, set boundaries, and build resilience. Ultimately, they want emotional stability, increased self-worth, and a life aligned with their values, moving toward healing and fulfillment.
(405) 363-4123 View (405) 363-4123
Photo of Kathryn Newsum McMillian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Kathryn Newsum McMillian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Serves Area
I am a therapist with 20 years of experience, who is in private practice in Little Rock. I worked in the Department of Psychiatry at UAMS for 8 years where I specialized in therapy with young adults age 14-24, utilizing several evidence-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, depressive, obsessive compulsive disorder, and other behavioral interventions. I was also the coordinator and lead therapist for the Eating Disorder Program at UAMS from 2009-2013. I love working with clients of all ages (14+) on trauma, anxiety, depressive, obsessive compulsive Disorder, and eating issues.
I am a therapist with 20 years of experience, who is in private practice in Little Rock. I worked in the Department of Psychiatry at UAMS for 8 years where I specialized in therapy with young adults age 14-24, utilizing several evidence-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, depressive, obsessive compulsive disorder, and other behavioral interventions. I was also the coordinator and lead therapist for the Eating Disorder Program at UAMS from 2009-2013. I love working with clients of all ages (14+) on trauma, anxiety, depressive, obsessive compulsive Disorder, and eating issues.
(501) 429-4733 View (501) 429-4733
Photo of Amanda M Thompson - Reflection Mental Health Therapy, PLLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Reflection Mental Health Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Are you dealing with overwhelming stress in your life? Struggling to cope with chronic health conditions? Are symptoms related to depression, anxiety, or PTSD difficult to handle alone? There is opportunity to feel relief from your stressors and symptoms. Come learn to set boundaries, practice self-care, evaluate your own thoughts and feelings, and feel better about yourself. We all have the ability to learn tools that can help us to cope with life’s challenges. Are you struggling with social anxiety, limited support, or isolation? Consider attending Art therapy groups at Reflection Mental Health Therapy. Call or email.
Are you dealing with overwhelming stress in your life? Struggling to cope with chronic health conditions? Are symptoms related to depression, anxiety, or PTSD difficult to handle alone? There is opportunity to feel relief from your stressors and symptoms. Come learn to set boundaries, practice self-care, evaluate your own thoughts and feelings, and feel better about yourself. We all have the ability to learn tools that can help us to cope with life’s challenges. Are you struggling with social anxiety, limited support, or isolation? Consider attending Art therapy groups at Reflection Mental Health Therapy. Call or email.
(501) 474-6415 View (501) 474-6415
Photo of Kaleb Hatton, Counselor, LAC
Kaleb Hatton
Counselor, LAC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready to feel better? Maybe you’ve found yourself at a place you never thought you would be and you want to make a change? Great news! Change is the only constant. I have the tools that can help and would love to share them with you. Together in therapy, we’ll focus on building meaningful experiences, developing strong and healthy relationships, and exploring patterns of thinking and behavior that may be helping or hindering your growth. Therapy takes place in a safe, relaxing, and nonjudgmental environment designed to support your healing and self-discovery.
Are you ready to feel better? Maybe you’ve found yourself at a place you never thought you would be and you want to make a change? Great news! Change is the only constant. I have the tools that can help and would love to share them with you. Together in therapy, we’ll focus on building meaningful experiences, developing strong and healthy relationships, and exploring patterns of thinking and behavior that may be helping or hindering your growth. Therapy takes place in a safe, relaxing, and nonjudgmental environment designed to support your healing and self-discovery.
(501) 858-6670 View (501) 858-6670
Photo of Dr. Sami Farhat, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Sami Farhat
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I provide forensic evaluation services for both criminal and civil matters. Common referrals include competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and violence risk. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and have consistently been qualified as an expert witness. Particular areas of interest are schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, drug induced psychosis, extreme overvalued beliefs versus delusions, and malingering. I also provide consultation and review of other expert's work.
I provide forensic evaluation services for both criminal and civil matters. Common referrals include competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and violence risk. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and have consistently been qualified as an expert witness. Particular areas of interest are schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, drug induced psychosis, extreme overvalued beliefs versus delusions, and malingering. I also provide consultation and review of other expert's work.
(248) 422-0370 View (248) 422-0370

See more therapy options for Briarwood, Little Rock

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Briarwood, Little Rock, AR

50+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Briarwood, Little Rock, AR who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
74% Grief
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Relationship Issues
66% Stress
64% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Ambetter
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Briarwood, Little Rock, AR see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Briarwood, Little Rock?

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.