Therapists in Hamilton, NJ

Photo of Joy Journe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Joy Journe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
Joy Journe graduated with a Master's degree in Social Work from Monmouth University, NJ with a focus on Families and Children. She has worked within the field of social work with various populations for 25 years. Joy can be described as a non judgmental, positive person as well as a professional who deems herself to be a Survivor in life. Joy is known to be able to work with anyone through any situation they are going through as she is a compassionate first. She offers a warm down to earth approach that explores the intersection between mind, body, and spirit.
Joy Journe graduated with a Master's degree in Social Work from Monmouth University, NJ with a focus on Families and Children. She has worked within the field of social work with various populations for 25 years. Joy can be described as a non judgmental, positive person as well as a professional who deems herself to be a Survivor in life. Joy is known to be able to work with anyone through any situation they are going through as she is a compassionate first. She offers a warm down to earth approach that explores the intersection between mind, body, and spirit.
(609) 201-1152 View (609) 201-1152
Photo of Lilah Galdi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Lilah Galdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR, CGRS, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619  (Online Only)
Lilah has provided services to those with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss and addictions from adolescents to dual diagnosis to older adults in an inpatient and outpatient setting. Lilah utilizes a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, The Grief Recovery Method, EMDR and a trauma-focused approach to help clients feel supported, validated and making improvements towards their goals.
Lilah has provided services to those with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss and addictions from adolescents to dual diagnosis to older adults in an inpatient and outpatient setting. Lilah utilizes a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, The Grief Recovery Method, EMDR and a trauma-focused approach to help clients feel supported, validated and making improvements towards their goals.
(609) 881-2474 View (609) 881-2474
Photo of Charis Chase, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Charis Chase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Charis, I'm a therapist and I'm passionate about helping people build the lives they want to be living. Therapy is a collaborative journey where we work together to set goals that can address a variety of challenges, whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or overcoming past traumas. I can help you explore how past events may be impacting your present, equip you with new coping skills to manage anxiety or depression, and navigate work based or other stressors.
Hi, I'm Charis, I'm a therapist and I'm passionate about helping people build the lives they want to be living. Therapy is a collaborative journey where we work together to set goals that can address a variety of challenges, whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or overcoming past traumas. I can help you explore how past events may be impacting your present, equip you with new coping skills to manage anxiety or depression, and navigate work based or other stressors.
(609) 997-6129 View (609) 997-6129
Photo of Carole Fitzsimmons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Carole Fitzsimmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
I have been a therapist for over 20 years working both with children and adults. I have worked with patients both in outpatient and inpatient facilities. I also have a background with patients who have substance abuse issues – both alcohol and chemical addictions. I have always been able to develop a strong rapport with patients while creating a safe environment. I use whatever tools necessary for patient improvement i.e., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy. My aim is to promote the wellbeing of the client.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years working both with children and adults. I have worked with patients both in outpatient and inpatient facilities. I also have a background with patients who have substance abuse issues – both alcohol and chemical addictions. I have always been able to develop a strong rapport with patients while creating a safe environment. I use whatever tools necessary for patient improvement i.e., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy. My aim is to promote the wellbeing of the client.
(609) 293-4225 View (609) 293-4225
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08610
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(609) 834-4935 View (609) 834-4935
Photo of Guide To Grow Therapy LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Guide To Grow Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Hello! My name is Shannon Campbell, owner and practitioner of Guide to Grow Therapy LLC located in Hamilton, New Jersey. My approach to counseling is integrative; tailored to meet the needs and goals of each individual or family. Together, we can identify patterns of thinking and behavior that you would like to change. I have over 15 years of experience working in both school and private counseling settings. My time in the school system has provided me with extensive knowledge to help parents navigate the I&RS, 504, and Child Study Team processes, as well as, assist in situations of suspected bullying.
Hello! My name is Shannon Campbell, owner and practitioner of Guide to Grow Therapy LLC located in Hamilton, New Jersey. My approach to counseling is integrative; tailored to meet the needs and goals of each individual or family. Together, we can identify patterns of thinking and behavior that you would like to change. I have over 15 years of experience working in both school and private counseling settings. My time in the school system has provided me with extensive knowledge to help parents navigate the I&RS, 504, and Child Study Team processes, as well as, assist in situations of suspected bullying.
(609) 564-1189 View (609) 564-1189
Photo of Jillian Brueckner, Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Jillian Brueckner
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08690
Waitlist for new clients
I come from a place of empathy and acceptance and I believe in creating a comfortable and safe space to promote healing with my clients. I also believe wellness is about the mind and body, which drives my use of mindfulness-based and relaxation techniques in session. Therapy is a journey inward and my role is to help you navigate the challenging and uneasy paths along the way.
I come from a place of empathy and acceptance and I believe in creating a comfortable and safe space to promote healing with my clients. I also believe wellness is about the mind and body, which drives my use of mindfulness-based and relaxation techniques in session. Therapy is a journey inward and my role is to help you navigate the challenging and uneasy paths along the way.
(609) 293-4767 View (609) 293-4767
Photo of Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Hello! My name is Tiffany Papp, co-owner and clinician of Guide To Grow Therapy, LLC. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you through your journey of growth. With a person-centered and compassionate approach, I can support you as you express your feelings and begin to learn coping skills on your journey towards self-improvement. My clients experience a range of challenges from anxiety, parenting, school issues, and living with disabilities, among many others. My primary focus is with parents, young adults, and adults going through life transitions. I am excited to meet you and work together towards reaching your goals.
Hello! My name is Tiffany Papp, co-owner and clinician of Guide To Grow Therapy, LLC. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you through your journey of growth. With a person-centered and compassionate approach, I can support you as you express your feelings and begin to learn coping skills on your journey towards self-improvement. My clients experience a range of challenges from anxiety, parenting, school issues, and living with disabilities, among many others. My primary focus is with parents, young adults, and adults going through life transitions. I am excited to meet you and work together towards reaching your goals.
(732) 838-5745 View (732) 838-5745
Photo of Courtney Madden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Courtney Madden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08610  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Courtney! Thank you so much for considering me for your mental health needs! First and foremost, I hope that you are proud of yourself for taking this step toward improving your mental health. Investing in your mental health is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself! Let me share with you a bit about myself. I received my Masters of Social Work with a clinical concentration from Widener University in Pennsylvania. After receiving my degree I began my career in a behavioral health hospital working with individuals and their loved ones following a crisis.
Hi, I'm Courtney! Thank you so much for considering me for your mental health needs! First and foremost, I hope that you are proud of yourself for taking this step toward improving your mental health. Investing in your mental health is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself! Let me share with you a bit about myself. I received my Masters of Social Work with a clinical concentration from Widener University in Pennsylvania. After receiving my degree I began my career in a behavioral health hospital working with individuals and their loved ones following a crisis.
View
Photo of Alison Botto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Alison Botto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
Therapy does not have to be for times of crisis. Our personal life can often be challenging and stressful. It can be helpful to talk to someone to process these issues and make more sense of our thoughts. I will help walk you through this, in a positive and non-judgmental way and at a pace that is comfortable to you.
Therapy does not have to be for times of crisis. Our personal life can often be challenging and stressful. It can be helpful to talk to someone to process these issues and make more sense of our thoughts. I will help walk you through this, in a positive and non-judgmental way and at a pace that is comfortable to you.
(609) 293-5250 View (609) 293-5250
Photo of Natalie Berrette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Natalie Berrette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Natalie Berrette. I am a Licensed Social Worker with a graduate degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick. After spending a decade counseling individuals living with physical and psychological illnesses, I have gained extensive experience in creating trusting relationships that foster opportunities for exploration, reflection, and growth. I believe in using a holistic approach combined with various evidence-based interventions to assure clients have a safe space to gain introspection and healing.
Hi, my name is Natalie Berrette. I am a Licensed Social Worker with a graduate degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick. After spending a decade counseling individuals living with physical and psychological illnesses, I have gained extensive experience in creating trusting relationships that foster opportunities for exploration, reflection, and growth. I believe in using a holistic approach combined with various evidence-based interventions to assure clients have a safe space to gain introspection and healing.
(609) 891-3581 View (609) 891-3581
Photo of Richard Tiburzi Heid, Psychologist in Hamilton, NJ
Richard Tiburzi Heid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
My supportive and thoughtful approach to psychotherapy involves helping clients to take a look at themselves and their choices to determine whether their personal styles are working for them. In this way, clients become more aware of how they relate to others and how to make healthy choices to reduce and better manage stress, improve mood, and enhance relationships. Identifying maladaptive patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, and making changes in those patterns, helps people to live more rewarding and satisfying lives. Therapy is a process in which people learn to live more adaptively and with more personal fulfillment.
My supportive and thoughtful approach to psychotherapy involves helping clients to take a look at themselves and their choices to determine whether their personal styles are working for them. In this way, clients become more aware of how they relate to others and how to make healthy choices to reduce and better manage stress, improve mood, and enhance relationships. Identifying maladaptive patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, and making changes in those patterns, helps people to live more rewarding and satisfying lives. Therapy is a process in which people learn to live more adaptively and with more personal fulfillment.
(609) 545-2095 View (609) 545-2095
Photo of Rochel Greer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Rochel Greer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Rochel Greer. I am currently a Licensed Social Worker and am working towards getting my clinical license. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Touro College with a focus in child development and a master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University with a focus in Clinical Social Work. I have experience professionally in the areas of substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, psychiatric disorders, and navigating the parent/child relationship. I enjoy working with clients of all ages but have a particular interest in the adolescent and adult population.
Hi, my name is Rochel Greer. I am currently a Licensed Social Worker and am working towards getting my clinical license. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Touro College with a focus in child development and a master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University with a focus in Clinical Social Work. I have experience professionally in the areas of substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, psychiatric disorders, and navigating the parent/child relationship. I enjoy working with clients of all ages but have a particular interest in the adolescent and adult population.
(609) 293-4316 View (609) 293-4316
Photo of Cledicianne Dorvil, Psychologist in Hamilton, NJ
Cledicianne Dorvil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08610
I am a multilingual (Haitian Creole, French, English ) psychologist licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania (PSYPACT). I have provided direct service in multiple settings including working as a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, behavior modification specialist, and crisis counselor. I also conduct cognitive, personality, neuropsychological, and risk assessments of children and adolescents. My work also extends to adults with trauma histories, severe mental illness, and legal issues. My approach to therapy is tailored to an individual's presenting needs.
I am a multilingual (Haitian Creole, French, English ) psychologist licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania (PSYPACT). I have provided direct service in multiple settings including working as a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, behavior modification specialist, and crisis counselor. I also conduct cognitive, personality, neuropsychological, and risk assessments of children and adolescents. My work also extends to adults with trauma histories, severe mental illness, and legal issues. My approach to therapy is tailored to an individual's presenting needs.
(609) 642-1475 View (609) 642-1475
Photo of Michelle Szwed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Michelle Szwed
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, LCADC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Not accepting new clients
It is my personal belief that everyone deserves to discover their meaning of a life worth living. As a professional counselor and life coach, I help clients on their journey to discovering what it truly means to live a life worth living. My clients and I share a very special and unique bond throughout the therapeutic relationship which allows us to to collaboratively work together to build strength, find meaning and achieve healing. I have a passion for Dialectical Behavior Therapy and incorporate it into just about every session I have. I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting and utilize this modality for the treatment of trauma.
It is my personal belief that everyone deserves to discover their meaning of a life worth living. As a professional counselor and life coach, I help clients on their journey to discovering what it truly means to live a life worth living. My clients and I share a very special and unique bond throughout the therapeutic relationship which allows us to to collaboratively work together to build strength, find meaning and achieve healing. I have a passion for Dialectical Behavior Therapy and incorporate it into just about every session I have. I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting and utilize this modality for the treatment of trauma.
(609) 245-5134 View (609) 245-5134
Leigh Povia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08690
Are you worried about your child's behavior? Are you feeling disconnected from your teen? Are you struggling to relate to your spouse? I incorporate traditional and non-traditional forms of therapy to address the needs of children, adolescents and adults. By using a relational approach, I work with individuals and families of all ages to find ways of connecting with one another and healing within the relationship.
Are you worried about your child's behavior? Are you feeling disconnected from your teen? Are you struggling to relate to your spouse? I incorporate traditional and non-traditional forms of therapy to address the needs of children, adolescents and adults. By using a relational approach, I work with individuals and families of all ages to find ways of connecting with one another and healing within the relationship.
(609) 269-4887 View (609) 269-4887
Photo of Cassie Knechel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hamilton, NJ
Cassie Knechel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08619
In our therapeutic work together, you will enter a warm, non-judgemental and creative environment where we will collaborate on a path to your optimal future self. You are the expert on yourself, and I bring evidence-based informed insight–locating areas that will benefit from curiosity, skills building and mindful compassion. Our conversations and the changes we set forth assist in igniting your therapeutic healing process and help shift any obstacles blocking the innate power of your self agency. I look forward to connecting with you!
In our therapeutic work together, you will enter a warm, non-judgemental and creative environment where we will collaborate on a path to your optimal future self. You are the expert on yourself, and I bring evidence-based informed insight–locating areas that will benefit from curiosity, skills building and mindful compassion. Our conversations and the changes we set forth assist in igniting your therapeutic healing process and help shift any obstacles blocking the innate power of your self agency. I look forward to connecting with you!
(609) 697-2186 View (609) 697-2186
Photo of Clarissa DeLuca, Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Clarissa DeLuca
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
One of the life lessons I have learned through my practice and life experiences is that we may know what the next right thing may be, but getting there oftentimes requires support, guidance, and self-trust. I truly believe we are all doing the very best we can with our present skill sets. Sometimes we may already have existing support systems and still may not know which path to choose. Other times we feel alone in moving forward and confused about if our choices are “right.” This is where I am hoping to help support you. I am a believer in the team effort.
One of the life lessons I have learned through my practice and life experiences is that we may know what the next right thing may be, but getting there oftentimes requires support, guidance, and self-trust. I truly believe we are all doing the very best we can with our present skill sets. Sometimes we may already have existing support systems and still may not know which path to choose. Other times we feel alone in moving forward and confused about if our choices are “right.” This is where I am hoping to help support you. I am a believer in the team effort.
(609) 928-8066 View (609) 928-8066
Photo of Lindsay Hutchison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hamilton, NJ
Lindsay Hutchison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619  (Online Only)
I feel that anyone who is looking for guidance and needs someone to help them along their journey is a client that I can help. Everyone of us has struggles and I want to help my clients reach the potential that they know they have and live the life that they always wanted for themselves.
I feel that anyone who is looking for guidance and needs someone to help them along their journey is a client that I can help. Everyone of us has struggles and I want to help my clients reach the potential that they know they have and live the life that they always wanted for themselves.
(609) 245-6861 View (609) 245-6861
Photo of Deborah Scimeca-Diaz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hamilton, NJ
Deborah Scimeca-Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619
My goal is to help people reconnect and reduce the conflict that creates distance in their significant relationships. I treat a variety of different issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship conflict. We all strive to feel valued, appreciated and connected to the significant people in our lives and when this does not occur we often experience distress. I help people reduce the distress they feel by helping them heal in relationships and build connections to the people who matter most. Office in Hamilton, NJ. For more information go to www.HealingRelationshipsNJ.com
My goal is to help people reconnect and reduce the conflict that creates distance in their significant relationships. I treat a variety of different issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship conflict. We all strive to feel valued, appreciated and connected to the significant people in our lives and when this does not occur we often experience distress. I help people reduce the distress they feel by helping them heal in relationships and build connections to the people who matter most. Office in Hamilton, NJ. For more information go to www.HealingRelationshipsNJ.com
View

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hamilton, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hamilton, NJ who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
63% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
62% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Hamilton, NJ see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hamilton?

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.