Therapists in Newton, NJ

Photo of Doreen Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Doreen Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860  (Online Only)
I've been in the helping professions for over 20 years and have helped hundreds of individuals create positive change in their lives, find a greater sense of peace and achieve goals that they have set for themselves. For the past ten years, I have been providing psychotherapy services. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals with almost every type of mental health need and I feel confident in my abilities to assist clients to achieve the outcomes they desire from their work in therapy. I provide teletherapy services so that you may receive treatment in the comfort of your home, on your schedule.
I've been in the helping professions for over 20 years and have helped hundreds of individuals create positive change in their lives, find a greater sense of peace and achieve goals that they have set for themselves. For the past ten years, I have been providing psychotherapy services. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals with almost every type of mental health need and I feel confident in my abilities to assist clients to achieve the outcomes they desire from their work in therapy. I provide teletherapy services so that you may receive treatment in the comfort of your home, on your schedule.
(862) 881-4089 View (862) 881-4089
Photo of Laura Anne Leone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Laura Anne Leone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
Hello. My name is Laura Leone and I am in private practice that offers a lovely out-patient office setting. I have been involved in emotional health education and training for decades and completed my Master's in Mental Health in 2012. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey and my passion includes serving children, adolescents, adults and families to assist and assess in bringing stabilization and effective intervention in a timely manner. In addition to assisting with behavioral challenges, I serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Hello. My name is Laura Leone and I am in private practice that offers a lovely out-patient office setting. I have been involved in emotional health education and training for decades and completed my Master's in Mental Health in 2012. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey and my passion includes serving children, adolescents, adults and families to assist and assess in bringing stabilization and effective intervention in a timely manner. In addition to assisting with behavioral challenges, I serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
(973) 755-9726 View (973) 755-9726
Photo of Jamie Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Jamie Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
I aim to create an environment where people I work with feel heard, nurtured, and confident so they can share openly without fear of judgment. The majority of the clients I work with are aiming to gain insight into their own behaviors and feelings while concurrently healing emotional wounds and traumas. From our families of origin through to our present day situations, we have collected unhelpful thought patterns that can impact our emotional state - our work in therapy is to exonerate ourselves from some of the burdens of our programming and learn to embrace who we really are.
I aim to create an environment where people I work with feel heard, nurtured, and confident so they can share openly without fear of judgment. The majority of the clients I work with are aiming to gain insight into their own behaviors and feelings while concurrently healing emotional wounds and traumas. From our families of origin through to our present day situations, we have collected unhelpful thought patterns that can impact our emotional state - our work in therapy is to exonerate ourselves from some of the burdens of our programming and learn to embrace who we really are.
(908) 838-4574 x13 View (908) 838-4574 x13
Photo of Mark Imbrie, Psychologist in Newton, NJ
Mark Imbrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
If you are on this page you know that life has its challenges There is suffering. Each of us in our own way is working to rise above our pain. For each of us these challenges are different. Some of us struggle with anxiety, others depression, some struggle to find love, others to end it. There are challenging relationships, children, work. Perhaps more difficult there is: death, loss, trauma, perhaps psychiatric or chronic medical illness. There is no shame in struggle. This is being human. It is also human to overcome this suffering, and create a life that reflects your deepest hopes, embodies courage, feels peaceful.
If you are on this page you know that life has its challenges There is suffering. Each of us in our own way is working to rise above our pain. For each of us these challenges are different. Some of us struggle with anxiety, others depression, some struggle to find love, others to end it. There are challenging relationships, children, work. Perhaps more difficult there is: death, loss, trauma, perhaps psychiatric or chronic medical illness. There is no shame in struggle. This is being human. It is also human to overcome this suffering, and create a life that reflects your deepest hopes, embodies courage, feels peaceful.
(862) 259-6835 View (862) 259-6835
Photo of Michelle Cahill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Michelle Cahill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
My goal as a therapist is to foster a genuine connection and provide a comfortable environment for my clients. Whether you are struggling with a new life change or have been battling an issue for years, you deserve to find some relief. I recognize that everyone's reason for seeking therapy is unique and I want to meet you where you are on your journey to well being.
My goal as a therapist is to foster a genuine connection and provide a comfortable environment for my clients. Whether you are struggling with a new life change or have been battling an issue for years, you deserve to find some relief. I recognize that everyone's reason for seeking therapy is unique and I want to meet you where you are on your journey to well being.
(973) 756-3701 View (973) 756-3701
Photo of Real Talk NJ LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Real Talk NJ LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
Not accepting new clients
I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Loyola University of MD in Psychology with a double Minor in Sociology & Asian Studies as well as a Master’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University of NJ in Clinical Counseling. I have extensive years & experience working with children/adolescents/adults/older individuals in the behavioral/mental health/addictions field – with varying levels of need.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Loyola University of MD in Psychology with a double Minor in Sociology & Asian Studies as well as a Master’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University of NJ in Clinical Counseling. I have extensive years & experience working with children/adolescents/adults/older individuals in the behavioral/mental health/addictions field – with varying levels of need.
(862) 314-3267 View (862) 314-3267
Photo of Ashley Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Ashley Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
Hello! My name is Ashley Allen. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field in a community agency setting. I have extensive history working with children and families in-community crisis interventions providing case management, psycho-education and out-patient psychotherapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a Solution Focused Approach to work attentively and compassionately with my clients in order to help them achieve their goals.
Hello! My name is Ashley Allen. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field in a community agency setting. I have extensive history working with children and families in-community crisis interventions providing case management, psycho-education and out-patient psychotherapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a Solution Focused Approach to work attentively and compassionately with my clients in order to help them achieve their goals.
(862) 259-7147 View (862) 259-7147
Photo of Samantha Hantis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newton, NJ
Samantha Hantis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
The thought of starting therapy can feel uncertain and uncomfortable. My therapy practice is fueled by my passion for helping others through life’s twists and turns in a safe, empathetic and non-judgemental atmosphere. My main objective, while helping clients reach their goals, is to empower clients’ voices while they continue to write their own stories. I help empower couples and families find their balence and reconnect. My experience includes working with adults, teenagers and children as young as 11.
The thought of starting therapy can feel uncertain and uncomfortable. My therapy practice is fueled by my passion for helping others through life’s twists and turns in a safe, empathetic and non-judgemental atmosphere. My main objective, while helping clients reach their goals, is to empower clients’ voices while they continue to write their own stories. I help empower couples and families find their balence and reconnect. My experience includes working with adults, teenagers and children as young as 11.
(862) 500-4854 View (862) 500-4854
Photo of Jolene Hegarty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Jolene Hegarty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, MA
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
Welcome! I know it can be hard to get to the point where you don’t know what else to do, so I want to first start off by applauding you for taking the first step in getting help for yourself or for a loved one. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with children, adolescents and families with diverse needs. I specialize in treating issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, mood disorders, school refusal, peer conflicts and other social emotional needs.
Welcome! I know it can be hard to get to the point where you don’t know what else to do, so I want to first start off by applauding you for taking the first step in getting help for yourself or for a loved one. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with children, adolescents and families with diverse needs. I specialize in treating issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, mood disorders, school refusal, peer conflicts and other social emotional needs.
(862) 212-0644 View (862) 212-0644
Photo of Suzanne Dowd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Suzanne Dowd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860  (Online Only)
My passion is helping adults, college-age, & families reach their full potential. By engaging the patient through non- judgement & acceptance, a trusting therapeutic relationship can develop. Too often you may not feel heard by others & simply need an objective person who will listen & give feedback to whatever issue you are facing.
My passion is helping adults, college-age, & families reach their full potential. By engaging the patient through non- judgement & acceptance, a trusting therapeutic relationship can develop. Too often you may not feel heard by others & simply need an objective person who will listen & give feedback to whatever issue you are facing.
(610) 364-5337 View (610) 364-5337
Photo of Melissa Javier, Counselor in Newton, NJ
Melissa Javier
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
Hello! Hola! My name is Melissa. I am a New Jersey Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with a Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health from Alliance University. I have worked in an Inpatient psychiatric facility, Crisis settings, Intensive Outpatient Programs, and Co-Occurring Disorder Programs. I have gained knowledge in issues of substance abuse, suicide prevention, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I aim to provide a safe and warm space. I utilizes MI, CBT, and DBT to help individuals achieve strength and personal growth. I like to combines my experience and sense of humor to have a realistic approach to counseling.
Hello! Hola! My name is Melissa. I am a New Jersey Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with a Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health from Alliance University. I have worked in an Inpatient psychiatric facility, Crisis settings, Intensive Outpatient Programs, and Co-Occurring Disorder Programs. I have gained knowledge in issues of substance abuse, suicide prevention, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I aim to provide a safe and warm space. I utilizes MI, CBT, and DBT to help individuals achieve strength and personal growth. I like to combines my experience and sense of humor to have a realistic approach to counseling.
(862) 500-3541 View (862) 500-3541
Photo of Rachel A Ochieng, Counselor in Newton, NJ
Rachel A Ochieng
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a wide range of experience having worked in private practice, community partial care programs and at a hospital psychiatric intensive care unit. I currently practice at Lakeside Counseling Associates, with a group of wonderful therapists. My experience involves working with clients ranging from ages 12-65. I appreciate the fact that I can integrate various forms of therapeutic techniques to meet clients’ individual needs. I am a big believer in the WHOLE person as opposed to focusing on the mental challenge.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a wide range of experience having worked in private practice, community partial care programs and at a hospital psychiatric intensive care unit. I currently practice at Lakeside Counseling Associates, with a group of wonderful therapists. My experience involves working with clients ranging from ages 12-65. I appreciate the fact that I can integrate various forms of therapeutic techniques to meet clients’ individual needs. I am a big believer in the WHOLE person as opposed to focusing on the mental challenge.
(862) 212-0982 View (862) 212-0982
Photo of Jennifer Gallagher in Newton, NJ
Jennifer Gallagher
LAC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with young adults (18-40) who are trying to "figure it all out." Between trying to build and maintain strong relationships, find a sense of purpose, deal with depression, anxiety, and shame, and recover from residual effects of childhood trauma, we have our work cut out for us. Every journey is unique, and you are the expert on you. My job is to hold space for you while you heal and grow into your happiest and healthiest self.
I specialize in working with young adults (18-40) who are trying to "figure it all out." Between trying to build and maintain strong relationships, find a sense of purpose, deal with depression, anxiety, and shame, and recover from residual effects of childhood trauma, we have our work cut out for us. Every journey is unique, and you are the expert on you. My job is to hold space for you while you heal and grow into your happiest and healthiest self.
View
Photo of Psychological Associates of North Jersey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Psychological Associates of North Jersey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
I believe in a holistic and strength based approach to counseling that draws from a variety of clinical theories, with a focus on a mindfulness approach. I enjoy creating a safe and welcoming environment to help my clients reach their goals. I work with individuals and their families experiencing behavioral issues, trauma, grief and loss, as well as substance use issues.
I believe in a holistic and strength based approach to counseling that draws from a variety of clinical theories, with a focus on a mindfulness approach. I enjoy creating a safe and welcoming environment to help my clients reach their goals. I work with individuals and their families experiencing behavioral issues, trauma, grief and loss, as well as substance use issues.
(908) 224-4154 View (908) 224-4154
Photo of Willow Tree Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Willow Tree Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
My approach to counseling is to support clients in gaining an understanding of themselves. I connect with people by providing a warm and accepting atmosphere that promotes self-reflection and growth. I uncover and respond to client’s unique needs and then offer guidance in the implementation of therapeutic skills and techniques.
My approach to counseling is to support clients in gaining an understanding of themselves. I connect with people by providing a warm and accepting atmosphere that promotes self-reflection and growth. I uncover and respond to client’s unique needs and then offer guidance in the implementation of therapeutic skills and techniques.
(908) 373-8169 View (908) 373-8169
Photo of Holly Aschoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Holly Aschoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
My name is Holly Aschoff and I’m part of a dynamic private practice located in Newton, NJ. My specialty is working from a client-centered strengths-based perspective, using the power of positivity through ACT, CBT, DBT, as well as TF-CBT for those who have suffered or witnessed trauma. I work with adolescents, and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I am trained in a multitude of cutting-edge evidence-based therapies servicing a variety of people suffering from an array of different mental health diagnosis, including mood disorders and personality disorders.
My name is Holly Aschoff and I’m part of a dynamic private practice located in Newton, NJ. My specialty is working from a client-centered strengths-based perspective, using the power of positivity through ACT, CBT, DBT, as well as TF-CBT for those who have suffered or witnessed trauma. I work with adolescents, and adults in individual, couples and family therapy. I am trained in a multitude of cutting-edge evidence-based therapies servicing a variety of people suffering from an array of different mental health diagnosis, including mood disorders and personality disorders.
(973) 756-3687 View (973) 756-3687
Photo of Jessica Gallego, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Jessica Gallego
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
I am a Sussex County therapist with specialties in teen therapy, child therapy, parenting therapy, and men's mental health. I also love to work with teachers and educators on managing the stress and demands of being an educator in 2023. I've been described as warm and approachable with the ability to connect with teens and tweens. I offer a safe and non judgmental space to process and better understand your stressors. If you're looking for a therapist that is approachable and warm, but also affective in helping you develop coping skills, reach out to me for a free consult.
I am a Sussex County therapist with specialties in teen therapy, child therapy, parenting therapy, and men's mental health. I also love to work with teachers and educators on managing the stress and demands of being an educator in 2023. I've been described as warm and approachable with the ability to connect with teens and tweens. I offer a safe and non judgmental space to process and better understand your stressors. If you're looking for a therapist that is approachable and warm, but also affective in helping you develop coping skills, reach out to me for a free consult.
(862) 300-4583 View (862) 300-4583
Photo of Tasha DeFelice, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Tasha DeFelice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
Hello, I’m Tasha! I am currently offering virtual sessions only at this time. Through an encouraging and positive environment, I strive to help my clients work through their struggles, emphasize their own strengths, and achieve goals they want to reach. I love to be creative and have fun, use hands-on approaches to therapy, and make our sessions engaging. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our two children, and our dog. I love to do crafts and tune into my creative side!
Hello, I’m Tasha! I am currently offering virtual sessions only at this time. Through an encouraging and positive environment, I strive to help my clients work through their struggles, emphasize their own strengths, and achieve goals they want to reach. I love to be creative and have fun, use hands-on approaches to therapy, and make our sessions engaging. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our two children, and our dog. I love to do crafts and tune into my creative side!
(862) 305-9862 View (862) 305-9862
Photo of Kayla Tarazona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, NJ
Kayla Tarazona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
Have you ever had the thought that you can’t remember what it’s like to NOT feel anxious? Does your mind continuously operate on overdrive? Are you tired of the same repetitive thought patterns? Is life feeling like one endless chore with no light at the end of the tunnel? Have you ever told yourself you know you need to make a change, but you can't muster the will power to follow through? Do you feel stuck in your relationship patterns but don't know what or how to change? If you answered yes to any of the above, we might be a great match. I believe that great therapy involves using many lenses or frameworks in order to heal. 10/12
Have you ever had the thought that you can’t remember what it’s like to NOT feel anxious? Does your mind continuously operate on overdrive? Are you tired of the same repetitive thought patterns? Is life feeling like one endless chore with no light at the end of the tunnel? Have you ever told yourself you know you need to make a change, but you can't muster the will power to follow through? Do you feel stuck in your relationship patterns but don't know what or how to change? If you answered yes to any of the above, we might be a great match. I believe that great therapy involves using many lenses or frameworks in order to heal. 10/12
(908) 460-1799 View (908) 460-1799
Photo of Mark Littman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newton, NJ
Mark Littman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
"Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?" Henry David Thoreau. These healing words are the foundation of my philosophy. if you are having serious communication (and other) issues in your relationship with your partner that you've been unable to resolve....if your teenager, who has always been so good, is becoming unmanageable...if you are suffering with profound grief that doesn't heal over having lost a loved one or a beloved pet, then please consider speaking to someone who can help. I have over 25 years experience working with these and other issues.
"Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?" Henry David Thoreau. These healing words are the foundation of my philosophy. if you are having serious communication (and other) issues in your relationship with your partner that you've been unable to resolve....if your teenager, who has always been so good, is becoming unmanageable...if you are suffering with profound grief that doesn't heal over having lost a loved one or a beloved pet, then please consider speaking to someone who can help. I have over 25 years experience working with these and other issues.
(973) 632-6617 View (973) 632-6617

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newton, NJ

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Newton, NJ who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
81% Relationship Issues
78% Coping Skills
78% Self Esteem
70% Family Conflict
66% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Newton, NJ see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newton?

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.