Therapists in Saint Charles, IL

Photo of Robert Jackman, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Robert Jackman
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
My style is to respect your strengths to help you foster insights into making your life better. I enjoy my work and utilize a variety of proven clinical skills and common sense. You may be going through a new issue and find it overwhelming, or you may be repeating an old behvioral pattern. I have a very interactive style and like to give homework to keep the progress going so you can move on in a healthy productive way. Call or e-mail today for a free consultation. Look for my best selling books on AMAZON: Healing Your Lost Inner Child and Healing Your Wounded Relationship. Or my YouTube channel: The Art of Practical Wisdom.
My style is to respect your strengths to help you foster insights into making your life better. I enjoy my work and utilize a variety of proven clinical skills and common sense. You may be going through a new issue and find it overwhelming, or you may be repeating an old behvioral pattern. I have a very interactive style and like to give homework to keep the progress going so you can move on in a healthy productive way. Call or e-mail today for a free consultation. Look for my best selling books on AMAZON: Healing Your Lost Inner Child and Healing Your Wounded Relationship. Or my YouTube channel: The Art of Practical Wisdom.
(630) 721-5765 View (630) 721-5765
Photo of Sara Kaeding, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Sara Kaeding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to create a plan for sustainable growth and change. I operate from a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed lens to support you in creating goals that align with your own vision for growth and healing. I understand how much effort it takes to create space in your life for therapy. I promise to honor that effort by providing a safe, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, supported, and encouraged.
I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to create a plan for sustainable growth and change. I operate from a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed lens to support you in creating goals that align with your own vision for growth and healing. I understand how much effort it takes to create space in your life for therapy. I promise to honor that effort by providing a safe, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, supported, and encouraged.
(224) 243-4076 x91 View (224) 243-4076 x91
Photo of Alisha Rybicki Barnum, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Alisha Rybicki Barnum
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
The invisible load of motherhood can be overwhelming... endless tasks, appointments, and management of activities. Feeling out-touched and exhausted all the time. The “mom guilt.” You are not alone! If you are looking for strategies to help reduce the frustration or overwhelm that you feel, then you've come to the right place! I help you to find techniques that can help you to regain control over your life and parent without guilt!
The invisible load of motherhood can be overwhelming... endless tasks, appointments, and management of activities. Feeling out-touched and exhausted all the time. The “mom guilt.” You are not alone! If you are looking for strategies to help reduce the frustration or overwhelm that you feel, then you've come to the right place! I help you to find techniques that can help you to regain control over your life and parent without guilt!
(847) 550-3725 View (847) 550-3725
Photo of Jennifer A Falbo-Negron, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Jennifer A Falbo-Negron
Counselor, EdS, LCPC, RYT, SEP, TTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Waitlist for new clients
I help my clients find peace of mind, gain insight, and be more present and grounded in their life to attain their goals and life purpose. I offer a therapeutic environment where clients learn to relax, feel safe, and then peel off the layers of a problem to become aware of the answers each client seeks. My specialties include stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, women's issues, academic problems, and chronic/health concerns. Together, we will examine how your thoughts, feelings, behaviors/actions, bodily sensations, and internal images affect the way you respond to others and within yourself (e.g., inner voice).
I help my clients find peace of mind, gain insight, and be more present and grounded in their life to attain their goals and life purpose. I offer a therapeutic environment where clients learn to relax, feel safe, and then peel off the layers of a problem to become aware of the answers each client seeks. My specialties include stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, women's issues, academic problems, and chronic/health concerns. Together, we will examine how your thoughts, feelings, behaviors/actions, bodily sensations, and internal images affect the way you respond to others and within yourself (e.g., inner voice).
(630) 557-6739 x1 View (630) 557-6739 x1
Photo of Eiko Venovic, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Eiko Venovic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Dr. Venovic has more than a decade of clinical experience with therapy specializations including, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, acculturation, interracial relationships, identity, and self-esteem. Dr. Venovic utilizes both psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy approaches with her clients to increase emotional well-being, improve the quality of relationships, and develop a lifestyle more consistent with her clients’ values.
Dr. Venovic has more than a decade of clinical experience with therapy specializations including, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, acculturation, interracial relationships, identity, and self-esteem. Dr. Venovic utilizes both psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy approaches with her clients to increase emotional well-being, improve the quality of relationships, and develop a lifestyle more consistent with her clients’ values.
(331) 216-1071 x3 View (331) 216-1071 x3
Photo of Karen Hammond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Karen Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Are you living with Post Traumatic Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Or, some other mental health issue? Welcome! I have a passion for bringing healing and improving individual's ability to fully embrace life. My goal is to meet each client where they currently are on their journey, with no judgement, using customized treatment while providing guidance to help clients find relief from the challenges they are experiencing. I look forward to working alongside of you as your enhance your quality of life.
Are you living with Post Traumatic Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Or, some other mental health issue? Welcome! I have a passion for bringing healing and improving individual's ability to fully embrace life. My goal is to meet each client where they currently are on their journey, with no judgement, using customized treatment while providing guidance to help clients find relief from the challenges they are experiencing. I look forward to working alongside of you as your enhance your quality of life.
(630) 381-5392 View (630) 381-5392
Photo of Stephanie Polan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Stephanie Polan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
I am AuDHD and a Queer and ND affirming therapist. I work with neurodivergent adults from a strength’s perspective, focusing on individual goals and improving quality of life as defined by my clients. I work on unmasking, neurodivergent burnout, interoception, emotional regulation, self-advocacy, executive functioning, and navigating living in a neurotypical society. I work with parents to address the transition to parenthood, postpartum disorders, low demand/gentle parenting, managing the mental load, and breaking generational cycles. When working with helping professionals, I focus on addressing compassion fatigue and burnout.
I am AuDHD and a Queer and ND affirming therapist. I work with neurodivergent adults from a strength’s perspective, focusing on individual goals and improving quality of life as defined by my clients. I work on unmasking, neurodivergent burnout, interoception, emotional regulation, self-advocacy, executive functioning, and navigating living in a neurotypical society. I work with parents to address the transition to parenthood, postpartum disorders, low demand/gentle parenting, managing the mental load, and breaking generational cycles. When working with helping professionals, I focus on addressing compassion fatigue and burnout.
(224) 352-0210 View (224) 352-0210
Photo of Nicole Seitzinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Nicole Seitzinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I specialize in working with adolescents, but enjoy helping clients of all ages navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. I have experience helping clients manage symptoms and experiences surrounding self-esteem and awareness, school anxiety, family conflict and executive functioning.
I specialize in working with adolescents, but enjoy helping clients of all ages navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. I have experience helping clients manage symptoms and experiences surrounding self-esteem and awareness, school anxiety, family conflict and executive functioning.
(630) 349-2912 View (630) 349-2912
Photo of Evelyn Humphries, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Evelyn Humphries
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
As a licensed professional counselor, Evelyn is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to her clients. She has a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Human Services from Roosevelt University that has equipped her with extensive skills in various therapeutic techniques. She also has a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. Both of her graduate programs have provided her with the rewarding capability of being able to listen and communicate with her clients with a great sense of empathy. Evelyn has the expertise to help individuals cope with a wide range of mental health challenges.
As a licensed professional counselor, Evelyn is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to her clients. She has a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Human Services from Roosevelt University that has equipped her with extensive skills in various therapeutic techniques. She also has a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. Both of her graduate programs have provided her with the rewarding capability of being able to listen and communicate with her clients with a great sense of empathy. Evelyn has the expertise to help individuals cope with a wide range of mental health challenges.
(630) 576-9769 View (630) 576-9769
Photo of Nick Costakis, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Nick Costakis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Dr. Nick specializes in conducting psychological and neuropsychological testing with children, adolescents, and adults. Conditions commonly assessed include learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, memory impairments including dementia, mood disorders, defiance, and presurgical evaluations. Referrals commonly come from schools, pediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, occupational and speech therapy settings, and local counselors, among others.
Dr. Nick specializes in conducting psychological and neuropsychological testing with children, adolescents, and adults. Conditions commonly assessed include learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, memory impairments including dementia, mood disorders, defiance, and presurgical evaluations. Referrals commonly come from schools, pediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, occupational and speech therapy settings, and local counselors, among others.
(630) 394-5235 View (630) 394-5235
Photo of Dr. Cesar Pajarillo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Dr. Cesar Pajarillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Not accepting new clients
Cesar is trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of mental health which enables him to personalize his treatment approach to the specific needs and goals of the individual. His training is focused on trauma and he specializes in treating clients with combat and non-combat-related issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, complex grief, attachment and reactive disorders, among others. He served as a Clinical Combat Chaplain in the US Army and as a forensic mental health clinician at a county jail for several years prior to private practice.
Cesar is trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of mental health which enables him to personalize his treatment approach to the specific needs and goals of the individual. His training is focused on trauma and he specializes in treating clients with combat and non-combat-related issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, complex grief, attachment and reactive disorders, among others. He served as a Clinical Combat Chaplain in the US Army and as a forensic mental health clinician at a county jail for several years prior to private practice.
(872) 228-2598 View (872) 228-2598
Photo of Lisa Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Lisa Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I feel that therapy is a process that people enter when they are searching for growth, change or acceptance. I can assist you with learning new skills or help you discover those skills that you didn't realize you posessed. I emphasize the process of change in the context of a life span development and treat children (5+), adolescents, adults and families.
I feel that therapy is a process that people enter when they are searching for growth, change or acceptance. I can assist you with learning new skills or help you discover those skills that you didn't realize you posessed. I emphasize the process of change in the context of a life span development and treat children (5+), adolescents, adults and families.
(630) 733-1748 View (630) 733-1748
Photo of Brittany Snow, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Brittany Snow
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Dr. Snow specializes in administering psychological and neuropsychological testing with children, adolescents, and adults. She frequently assesses learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, mood disorders, defiance, and conducts pre-surgical evaluations. She is trained in the ADOS-2, a measure that is considered the “gold standard” assessment for diagnosing autism. Her psychological reports include easy to read language and unique recommendations tailored to each client.
Dr. Snow specializes in administering psychological and neuropsychological testing with children, adolescents, and adults. She frequently assesses learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, mood disorders, defiance, and conducts pre-surgical evaluations. She is trained in the ADOS-2, a measure that is considered the “gold standard” assessment for diagnosing autism. Her psychological reports include easy to read language and unique recommendations tailored to each client.
(331) 979-3008 View (331) 979-3008
Mari Wittum
Counselor, MSCP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I will provide a safe place, an open mind, a compassionate heart, and a listening ear. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or in a crisis? I will provide an appointment within 24 hours if needed. Not in a crisis but just need some life coaching, I will help with that too. I utilize an eclectic approach taking into account age, background, and the individual needs of each of my clients. In my 25+ years of experience I have assisted individuals, adolescents, couples, families when faced with challenges in journey of life.
I will provide a safe place, an open mind, a compassionate heart, and a listening ear. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or in a crisis? I will provide an appointment within 24 hours if needed. Not in a crisis but just need some life coaching, I will help with that too. I utilize an eclectic approach taking into account age, background, and the individual needs of each of my clients. In my 25+ years of experience I have assisted individuals, adolescents, couples, families when faced with challenges in journey of life.
(630) 796-4448 View (630) 796-4448
Photo of Rita Rippentrop, LCPC, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Rita Rippentrop, LCPC
Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put yourself at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life ought feel somehow better? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs & not not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it ought not be so hard to live a more fulfilling life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put yourself at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life ought feel somehow better? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs & not not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it ought not be so hard to live a more fulfilling life.
(708) 726-0078 View (708) 726-0078
Photo of Marquita Crudup, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Marquita Crudup
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Marquita has experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of backgrounds and concerns. Her experience includes working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, military, couples, family, grief, personality disorders, and eating disorders. Her resume includes volunteer work as a sexual assault crisis advocate- assisting victims of sexual assault in local county hospitals, as well as, counseling survivors of domestic violence.
Marquita has experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of backgrounds and concerns. Her experience includes working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, military, couples, family, grief, personality disorders, and eating disorders. Her resume includes volunteer work as a sexual assault crisis advocate- assisting victims of sexual assault in local county hospitals, as well as, counseling survivors of domestic violence.
(630) 349-2045 View (630) 349-2045
Photo of Nancy Kuhn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Nancy Kuhn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change."- Jim Rohn. People seek counseling when their emotional pain becomes too much to bear on their own and they want to be free of it. How we deal with life's pain defines who we are. While we don't choose to undergo misfortune, we do decide how we react to those events. I have found that negative experiences can also trigger something positive within us. Crisis offers opportunity for change, and pain can be the catalyst for transformation.
Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change."- Jim Rohn. People seek counseling when their emotional pain becomes too much to bear on their own and they want to be free of it. How we deal with life's pain defines who we are. While we don't choose to undergo misfortune, we do decide how we react to those events. I have found that negative experiences can also trigger something positive within us. Crisis offers opportunity for change, and pain can be the catalyst for transformation.
(630) 473-3469 View (630) 473-3469
Photo of Lauren Lollini, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Lauren Lollini
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Congratulations, you have made the first and most important step in helping yourself reach your goals. I believe psychotherapy is truly a process, one which the therapist can help guide a client to make the changes they need for positive change. My 15+ years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults and families allows for me to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. As all clients have differing needs, it is crucial for you to find the right therapist, the one with whom you feel a comfort and who might best help you succeed.
Congratulations, you have made the first and most important step in helping yourself reach your goals. I believe psychotherapy is truly a process, one which the therapist can help guide a client to make the changes they need for positive change. My 15+ years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults and families allows for me to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. As all clients have differing needs, it is crucial for you to find the right therapist, the one with whom you feel a comfort and who might best help you succeed.
(630) 318-1201 View (630) 318-1201
Photo of Growing Awareness Counseling, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Growing Awareness Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPS, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I have a genuine interest in people and the different ways we all try to make sense of ourselves and the world. I seek to provide a comfortable space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment. I take a collaborative approach however, I believe that the client knows themselves the best and with some support has the ability to identify what they want and how they can get there.
I have a genuine interest in people and the different ways we all try to make sense of ourselves and the world. I seek to provide a comfortable space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment. I take a collaborative approach however, I believe that the client knows themselves the best and with some support has the ability to identify what they want and how they can get there.
(630) 793-6243 View (630) 793-6243
Photo of Katelyn Lukensmeyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Katelyn Lukensmeyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Katie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in adults and adolescents with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, survivors of personality disordered abuse, and couples therapy. Katie graduated from DePaul University with her BA in psychology in 2008 and Loyola University of Chicago, School of Social work in 2012 with her MSW. Katie has experience with a wide variety of clients including: Military Veterans/families, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and clients with legal involvement. Katie assists her clients move toward healing and reaching personal goals to improve overall quality of life.
Katie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in adults and adolescents with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, survivors of personality disordered abuse, and couples therapy. Katie graduated from DePaul University with her BA in psychology in 2008 and Loyola University of Chicago, School of Social work in 2012 with her MSW. Katie has experience with a wide variety of clients including: Military Veterans/families, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and clients with legal involvement. Katie assists her clients move toward healing and reaching personal goals to improve overall quality of life.
(630) 761-5979 View (630) 761-5979

See more therapy options for Saint Charles

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Charles, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Saint Charles, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Aetna
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Saint Charles, IL see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Charles?

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.