Therapists in College Station, TX

Photo of Pamela J Lane, Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
Pamela J Lane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
Hello, thanks for checking out my profile! I am a Licensed Counselor w/over 25 years of experience in mental health. I'd like to help you figure out your needs & guide you in navigating the transitions in your life. I am available to help answer your questions and learn ways of handling the challenges in your life or in understanding those around you. I can let you know what coping skills and strategies will help concerning your particular symptoms and in managing your everyday world. Please text or email me to ask questions about my serving you during this period in your life.
Hello, thanks for checking out my profile! I am a Licensed Counselor w/over 25 years of experience in mental health. I'd like to help you figure out your needs & guide you in navigating the transitions in your life. I am available to help answer your questions and learn ways of handling the challenges in your life or in understanding those around you. I can let you know what coping skills and strategies will help concerning your particular symptoms and in managing your everyday world. Please text or email me to ask questions about my serving you during this period in your life.
(979) 505-1670 View (979) 505-1670
Photo of Kimberly Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in College Station, TX
Kimberly Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840
I believe healing from trauma, grief, deep-seated depression, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, chronic self-doubt, wounded inner child, and inner loneliness shouldn’t be so hard to heal. Life can improve; people can change; there is hope and answers. My goal as your counselor is to nurture your emotional health for those wanting peace, healing, and accepting life’s tribulations as they come. In our counseling session, I give you a safe place to express yourself with warmth, empathy, trust, genuineness, and respect.
I believe healing from trauma, grief, deep-seated depression, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, chronic self-doubt, wounded inner child, and inner loneliness shouldn’t be so hard to heal. Life can improve; people can change; there is hope and answers. My goal as your counselor is to nurture your emotional health for those wanting peace, healing, and accepting life’s tribulations as they come. In our counseling session, I give you a safe place to express yourself with warmth, empathy, trust, genuineness, and respect.
(979) 325-3504 View (979) 325-3504
Photo of Dr. Michael Russell, Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
Dr. Michael Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, LPC-S
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
I've been in practice for more than 35 years, the last three decades in the Bryan/College Station area. I work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues. I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital issues, anger, stress management, and parent-child relationships. I am available for office sessions as well as phone and online counseling.
I've been in practice for more than 35 years, the last three decades in the Bryan/College Station area. I work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues. I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital issues, anger, stress management, and parent-child relationships. I am available for office sessions as well as phone and online counseling.
(979) 450-1210 View (979) 450-1210
Photo of Dr. Kaitlyn Stein, Psychologist in College Station, TX
Dr. Kaitlyn Stein
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77845  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you’re struggling to keep your head above water? We’ve all been there, and we all face unique challenges. However, these hardships can foster strength and flexibility. I believe that individuals can see dramatic improvements in their life and mental health with guidance and support. I am a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University. My approach is tailored to each client’s unique needs. I especially enjoy working with individuals who might be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, relational issues, and family conflict.
Do you feel like you’re struggling to keep your head above water? We’ve all been there, and we all face unique challenges. However, these hardships can foster strength and flexibility. I believe that individuals can see dramatic improvements in their life and mental health with guidance and support. I am a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University. My approach is tailored to each client’s unique needs. I especially enjoy working with individuals who might be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, relational issues, and family conflict.
(979) 378-5752 View (979) 378-5752
Photo of Wiley Lincoln - Masters Student Intern Supervised By Andrea A. Boldt - Lpc-S, Pre-Licensed Professional in College Station, TX
Wiley Lincoln - Masters Student Intern Supervised By Andrea A. Boldt - Lpc-S
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
Not accepting new clients
My clients are looking for a professional who is knowledgable but above all friendly. Someone who supports their goals with empathy and understanding, creating an open atmosphere for growing and sharing. Navigating life's difficulties is impossible alone. You deserve a counselor that welcomes your highs and lows as well as everything in between.
My clients are looking for a professional who is knowledgable but above all friendly. Someone who supports their goals with empathy and understanding, creating an open atmosphere for growing and sharing. Navigating life's difficulties is impossible alone. You deserve a counselor that welcomes your highs and lows as well as everything in between.
(979) 271-5501 View (979) 271-5501
Photo of Sacha Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in College Station, TX
Sacha Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
I am motivated to help individuals, family and teenagers to navigate through their problems. I am interested in working with clients by utilizing their environment and supports. I encourage clients to bring in family or loved one's in therapy because I believe that the people around us can help encourage growth. Please feel free to call or email me about making an appointment. info@bvmhw.com *** Please be aware that I do not participate in any ESA (Emotional support animal) or service dog processes (Letters, applications etc). Please refer to your doctor for more information. *** My work hours are M- Th 9-5pm and Fridays after 1p
I am motivated to help individuals, family and teenagers to navigate through their problems. I am interested in working with clients by utilizing their environment and supports. I encourage clients to bring in family or loved one's in therapy because I believe that the people around us can help encourage growth. Please feel free to call or email me about making an appointment. info@bvmhw.com *** Please be aware that I do not participate in any ESA (Emotional support animal) or service dog processes (Letters, applications etc). Please refer to your doctor for more information. *** My work hours are M- Th 9-5pm and Fridays after 1p
(979) 383-2594 x77801 View (979) 383-2594 x77801
Photo of Garret Glass, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in College Station, TX
Garret Glass
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
I believe therapy is all about helping people and relationships becoming the best version of themselves. I do this by leading people to self-acceptance and helping individuals, couples, and families name and make the changes they want for themselves and their lives. I believe you aren't truly stuck the way you are; getting help is a courageous step that changes your life. I am happy to work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, backgrounds, and life circumstances, whether you’re dealing with relational troubles, anxiety, depression, having trouble with life's stresses, or merely wanting to make a change.
I believe therapy is all about helping people and relationships becoming the best version of themselves. I do this by leading people to self-acceptance and helping individuals, couples, and families name and make the changes they want for themselves and their lives. I believe you aren't truly stuck the way you are; getting help is a courageous step that changes your life. I am happy to work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, backgrounds, and life circumstances, whether you’re dealing with relational troubles, anxiety, depression, having trouble with life's stresses, or merely wanting to make a change.
(979) 451-6731 View (979) 451-6731
Photo of Lauren Hwang, LPC Associate in College Station, TX
Lauren Hwang
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
I am so proud of you for taking this courageous step to seek help and hope. My desire is to be a safe relationship in which you can experience grace and restoration. I am passionate about helping you dismantle shame and reclaim truth in your life so that you can live in joy and freedom.
I am so proud of you for taking this courageous step to seek help and hope. My desire is to be a safe relationship in which you can experience grace and restoration. I am passionate about helping you dismantle shame and reclaim truth in your life so that you can live in joy and freedom.
(979) 243-5873 View (979) 243-5873
Photo of Kristina R Whitmore, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in College Station, TX
Kristina R Whitmore
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
Seeking a counselor is scary and can be one of the hardest steps in counseling. Just making it this far is something you should be proud of. If you find yourself overwhelmed with daily life, anxious or just needing some guidance when it comes to your mental health, I can help you through that. My goal is to make the process of therapy as easy as possible by tailoring a treatment plan that uniquely fits you and your lifestyle. If you have any questions, please reach out.
Seeking a counselor is scary and can be one of the hardest steps in counseling. Just making it this far is something you should be proud of. If you find yourself overwhelmed with daily life, anxious or just needing some guidance when it comes to your mental health, I can help you through that. My goal is to make the process of therapy as easy as possible by tailoring a treatment plan that uniquely fits you and your lifestyle. If you have any questions, please reach out.
View
Photo of Cassie Holdcroft, Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
Cassie Holdcroft
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, MHC
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling lost in life, like the way forward is being swept away before you can find it? Struggling with the future leads to all kinds of day-to-day struggles: can't focus, can't sleep, eating your feelings, not wanting to be around people just to name a few. I love helping people figure out who and what they want to be when they grow up and finding control over the everyday struggles.
Are you feeling lost in life, like the way forward is being swept away before you can find it? Struggling with the future leads to all kinds of day-to-day struggles: can't focus, can't sleep, eating your feelings, not wanting to be around people just to name a few. I love helping people figure out who and what they want to be when they grow up and finding control over the everyday struggles.
(979) 271-5463 View (979) 271-5463
Photo of Elizabeth Boggess, Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
Elizabeth Boggess
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
Waitlist for new clients
Generally, I work with people who feel stuck; they have a desire for change in their life but don’t know how. They may feel undeserving of change or invalidated by people close to them. Others may feel unsupported in their endeavors or may be struggling to cope with transitions or difficult events. My approach to therapy includes collaboratively working with you to develop goals and interventions for change. In this approach, we will explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior.
Generally, I work with people who feel stuck; they have a desire for change in their life but don’t know how. They may feel undeserving of change or invalidated by people close to them. Others may feel unsupported in their endeavors or may be struggling to cope with transitions or difficult events. My approach to therapy includes collaboratively working with you to develop goals and interventions for change. In this approach, we will explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior.
(713) 497-1350 View (713) 497-1350
Photo of Dr. Glover at Women's Holistic Counseling... LLC, Psychologist in College Station, TX
Dr. Glover at Women's Holistic Counseling... LLC
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77845  (Online Only)
Are you feeling tired, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, burnt out or feeling impacted by past trauma? Therapy can be a life changing experience that leads to significant healing, and wholeness. As a licensed psychologist, Dr. Glover uses a trauma informed lens to understand how societal factors, like oppression and injustice, impact mental health. She actively works to create safe therapeutic spaces where clients can be their authentic selves, claim radical hope, and have improved qualities of life. Dr. Glover specializes in working with BIPOC moms, professionals, graduate students, therapist and many others.
Are you feeling tired, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, burnt out or feeling impacted by past trauma? Therapy can be a life changing experience that leads to significant healing, and wholeness. As a licensed psychologist, Dr. Glover uses a trauma informed lens to understand how societal factors, like oppression and injustice, impact mental health. She actively works to create safe therapeutic spaces where clients can be their authentic selves, claim radical hope, and have improved qualities of life. Dr. Glover specializes in working with BIPOC moms, professionals, graduate students, therapist and many others.
(979) 271-5042 View (979) 271-5042
Photo of Melissa Silva, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in College Station, TX
Melissa Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77845
I believe in the power of collaboration and view counseling as a partnership, where we work together to explore your concerns, uncover underlying patterns, and develop practical strategies to foster meaningful change. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating life transitions, experiencing relationship issues, managing stress and anxiety, coping with trauma, and seeking personal development. Whether you're facing challenges in your career, relationships, or overall well-being, I am here to support you in cultivating greater self-awareness, resilience, and fulfillment.
I believe in the power of collaboration and view counseling as a partnership, where we work together to explore your concerns, uncover underlying patterns, and develop practical strategies to foster meaningful change. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating life transitions, experiencing relationship issues, managing stress and anxiety, coping with trauma, and seeking personal development. Whether you're facing challenges in your career, relationships, or overall well-being, I am here to support you in cultivating greater self-awareness, resilience, and fulfillment.
(979) 406-7758 View (979) 406-7758
Photo of Nicholas Molnar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in College Station, TX
Nicholas Molnar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840  (Online Only)
Nicholas “Nick” Molnar is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas who has over seven years of experience providing care to individuals struggling with depression/anxiety, anger, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Nick completed both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Social Work from Baylor University.
Nicholas “Nick” Molnar is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas who has over seven years of experience providing care to individuals struggling with depression/anxiety, anger, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Nick completed both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Social Work from Baylor University.
(979) 977-1874 View (979) 977-1874
Photo of AC Schooler , Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
AC Schooler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77840
02/15/23 Accepting new clients As a counselor and a retired cop, I have dealt with a wide range of tragedies that can drive a person to seek counseling. Life is messy, and my background will help me understand what you have been through. Trauma is an emotional injury, and like many physical injuries it can heal if you tend to it properly. Even if you haven’t suffered an extreme event, you may feel stuck and be unable to move forward. I retired from policing so that I could more directly help people put their lives back together. Having bad things happen shouldn’t keep you from being able to have a good life.
02/15/23 Accepting new clients As a counselor and a retired cop, I have dealt with a wide range of tragedies that can drive a person to seek counseling. Life is messy, and my background will help me understand what you have been through. Trauma is an emotional injury, and like many physical injuries it can heal if you tend to it properly. Even if you haven’t suffered an extreme event, you may feel stuck and be unable to move forward. I retired from policing so that I could more directly help people put their lives back together. Having bad things happen shouldn’t keep you from being able to have a good life.
(979) 200-6665 View (979) 200-6665
Photo of Laura M Preston, Pre-Licensed Professional in College Station, TX
Laura M Preston
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
Having walked through a long journey of chronic illness with several members of my family, I understand grief and trauma on a personal level. I find value in helping clients examine themselves holistically (mind, body, spirit, emotions) to determine their next steps toward healing. I especially enjoy helping clients process any trauma or PTSD that is keeping them from moving forward in their lives.
Having walked through a long journey of chronic illness with several members of my family, I understand grief and trauma on a personal level. I find value in helping clients examine themselves holistically (mind, body, spirit, emotions) to determine their next steps toward healing. I especially enjoy helping clients process any trauma or PTSD that is keeping them from moving forward in their lives.
(979) 464-4590 View (979) 464-4590
Photo of Dr. Carmen Morrison, Psychologist in College Station, TX
Dr. Carmen Morrison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840
I view persons as made up of emotions, thoughts, relationships, biology, and our spiritual selves. Consequently, I first help you stabilize by making necessary changes in behavior. Medical or neurological contributions and possible nutritional deficiencies are examined. I address any distorted thinking that is contributing to your emotional pain. If systems in your life (family, work, school) are a factor, they are also addressed. Finally, we work with the larger questions of existence (spiritual issues, issues of purpose/ meaning), which are all vital to mental health. All areas are dealt with from a solid grounding in the science.
I view persons as made up of emotions, thoughts, relationships, biology, and our spiritual selves. Consequently, I first help you stabilize by making necessary changes in behavior. Medical or neurological contributions and possible nutritional deficiencies are examined. I address any distorted thinking that is contributing to your emotional pain. If systems in your life (family, work, school) are a factor, they are also addressed. Finally, we work with the larger questions of existence (spiritual issues, issues of purpose/ meaning), which are all vital to mental health. All areas are dealt with from a solid grounding in the science.
(979) 316-9978 x2 View (979) 316-9978 x2
Photo of Jess Rios, Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
Jess Rios
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
College Station, TX 77845
I often get asked, “What’s a good reason to seek counseling?” Or “Why do people go to counseling?” And the short answer is, “For lots of reasons.” If you’re feeling stuck, have experiences you’re wanting to sort through with someone, wanting to re-learn how to have healthy relationships with others or yourself, have experienced significant grief, trauma, or impacting experiences, or simply want to better understand what has shaped your life and desire to live a more integrated and full life, then I’d say come check it out. Emailing me is the best way to get a hold of me.
I often get asked, “What’s a good reason to seek counseling?” Or “Why do people go to counseling?” And the short answer is, “For lots of reasons.” If you’re feeling stuck, have experiences you’re wanting to sort through with someone, wanting to re-learn how to have healthy relationships with others or yourself, have experienced significant grief, trauma, or impacting experiences, or simply want to better understand what has shaped your life and desire to live a more integrated and full life, then I’d say come check it out. Emailing me is the best way to get a hold of me.
(979) 652-5077 View (979) 652-5077
Photo of Jill R. Butler, LPC Associate in College Station, TX
Jill R. Butler
LPC Associate
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77845
When we are faced with difficult situations, we often find ourselves stuck in a spiral of negative, toxic thoughts. These thoughts become feelings and we are left with pain, deep sadness, fear, regret, isolation, frustration, anger, anxiety, embarrassment, and possible physical ailments. Our feelings can keep us from pursuing our goals, our purpose, and from being the person we were created to be. My goal is to meet you where you are, offering an authentic emotional connection focused on solutions and strategies that foster personal healing and desired change.
When we are faced with difficult situations, we often find ourselves stuck in a spiral of negative, toxic thoughts. These thoughts become feelings and we are left with pain, deep sadness, fear, regret, isolation, frustration, anger, anxiety, embarrassment, and possible physical ailments. Our feelings can keep us from pursuing our goals, our purpose, and from being the person we were created to be. My goal is to meet you where you are, offering an authentic emotional connection focused on solutions and strategies that foster personal healing and desired change.
(979) 464-7688 View (979) 464-7688
Photo of Lisa Senn, Licensed Professional Counselor in College Station, TX
Lisa Senn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
College Station, TX 77840
My name is Lisa Senn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 17 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Minors, and Preteens with depressed mood, dysregulated mood, anxiety, anger issues, codependency, and relational trauma. I most commonly utilize Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, and Solution Focused Brief Therapies. I believe that all people are deserving of dignity, compassion, and respect.
My name is Lisa Senn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 17 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Minors, and Preteens with depressed mood, dysregulated mood, anxiety, anger issues, codependency, and relational trauma. I most commonly utilize Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, and Solution Focused Brief Therapies. I believe that all people are deserving of dignity, compassion, and respect.
(972) 846-4443 View (972) 846-4443

See more therapy options for College Station

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in College Station, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in College Station, TX who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Stress
72% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
64% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in College Station, TX see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in College Station?

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.