Therapists in Hacienda Heights, CA

Photo of Stacey Devening, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Stacey Devening
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy using a holistic, trauma-informed approach. I understand that beginning therapy isn't easy, even for those who have previous experiences. I will take the time to ensure you feel comfortable and hear your story to help through any challenges that may be contributing to depression, anxiety or relationship concerns!
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy using a holistic, trauma-informed approach. I understand that beginning therapy isn't easy, even for those who have previous experiences. I will take the time to ensure you feel comfortable and hear your story to help through any challenges that may be contributing to depression, anxiety or relationship concerns!
(626) 507-6881 View (626) 507-6881
Photo of Cassandra Mejia-Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cassandra Mejia-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hola! I'm a biracial and bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have 10 years experience in the social work field. I have experience as an intensive therapist providing psychotherapy for those struggling with serious mental health conditions /Caregiver burnout/suicidal ideation/trauma/ anxiety/depression/grief & loss/life transitions/discrimination/self-harming behaviors/& stress. I support adolescents and adults rediscover themselves, own their self-worth, and use their strengths to become not only the best versions of themselves, but feel better so they can enjoy life again.
Hola! I'm a biracial and bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have 10 years experience in the social work field. I have experience as an intensive therapist providing psychotherapy for those struggling with serious mental health conditions /Caregiver burnout/suicidal ideation/trauma/ anxiety/depression/grief & loss/life transitions/discrimination/self-harming behaviors/& stress. I support adolescents and adults rediscover themselves, own their self-worth, and use their strengths to become not only the best versions of themselves, but feel better so they can enjoy life again.
(559) 517-3210 View (559) 517-3210
Photo of Destiny Aguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Destiny Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Reaching out for help takes strength, and just by being here, you have already taken a meaningful first step. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself, that is okay. Therapy offers a safe and supportive space to explore what you are carrying and begin the process of moving forward. No matter what you are facing, you do not have to go through it alone. Healing is possible. I genuinely care about the people I work with and feel honored to support them in their healing journey. Together, we’ll create a path forward that supports healing, self-awareness, and lasting change.
Reaching out for help takes strength, and just by being here, you have already taken a meaningful first step. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself, that is okay. Therapy offers a safe and supportive space to explore what you are carrying and begin the process of moving forward. No matter what you are facing, you do not have to go through it alone. Healing is possible. I genuinely care about the people I work with and feel honored to support them in their healing journey. Together, we’ll create a path forward that supports healing, self-awareness, and lasting change.
(626) 569-5197 View (626) 569-5197
Photo of Colleen Ohlman, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Colleen Ohlman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Online Only
At Sunny Side Up Therapy i see clients remotely on a private and HIPAA-compliant platform. I feel truly honored to be the one to hold space for my clients in some of their life's most challenging moments. My client's well-being really does matter to me and I want to see them thrive! I am grounded in empathetic support, offering a holistic approach to gently guide my clients toward meaningful change. I am not here to judge you or tell you how to live your life because the best outcomes are client-centered with YOU in the driver's seat.
At Sunny Side Up Therapy i see clients remotely on a private and HIPAA-compliant platform. I feel truly honored to be the one to hold space for my clients in some of their life's most challenging moments. My client's well-being really does matter to me and I want to see them thrive! I am grounded in empathetic support, offering a holistic approach to gently guide my clients toward meaningful change. I am not here to judge you or tell you how to live your life because the best outcomes are client-centered with YOU in the driver's seat.
(626) 762-4578 View (626) 762-4578
Photo of Elaine Kindle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Elaine Kindle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
Is your life overwhelming, out-of-control? Are you unmotivated; defeated? Has your self-esteem tanked? Have you lost passion for work...or for life? Are you burned-out? Do you keep trying to succeed but feel you're going nowhere? Have friends said "just get over it" ... something happened to you in the past ...but you just can't seem to shake if off? Change is possible.
Is your life overwhelming, out-of-control? Are you unmotivated; defeated? Has your self-esteem tanked? Have you lost passion for work...or for life? Are you burned-out? Do you keep trying to succeed but feel you're going nowhere? Have friends said "just get over it" ... something happened to you in the past ...but you just can't seem to shake if off? Change is possible.
(626) 653-4095 View (626) 653-4095
Photo of Diego Fuentes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diego Fuentes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! My name is Diego Fuentes and I am an LCSW. I have been providing therapy for 18 years and love working with alcohol/substance use, behavioral change, depression, anxiety, mood de-escalation and goal setting strategies. Part of the journey includes implementing positive self talk, validation, healing and working to achieve healthier boundaries. I contribute to a healthy setting by providing a safe and judgment free setting to explore and process your feelings, thoughts and behaviors. If you would like to have a brief chat before making your decision, please reach out with a text and we’ll set up a convenient time to talk.
Hi! My name is Diego Fuentes and I am an LCSW. I have been providing therapy for 18 years and love working with alcohol/substance use, behavioral change, depression, anxiety, mood de-escalation and goal setting strategies. Part of the journey includes implementing positive self talk, validation, healing and working to achieve healthier boundaries. I contribute to a healthy setting by providing a safe and judgment free setting to explore and process your feelings, thoughts and behaviors. If you would like to have a brief chat before making your decision, please reach out with a text and we’ll set up a convenient time to talk.
(626) 684-4098 View (626) 684-4098
Photo of Jane Shih Wang, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jane Shih Wang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like you have a lot of trauma that you buried for so long due to shame and stigma?Do you feel like your buried trauma interferes with your quality of life? Do you feel as if you're supposed to just get over it, but you're haunted by memories? Do you feel as if life is not ideal?
Do you feel like you have a lot of trauma that you buried for so long due to shame and stigma?Do you feel like your buried trauma interferes with your quality of life? Do you feel as if you're supposed to just get over it, but you're haunted by memories? Do you feel as if life is not ideal?
(424) 324-3937 View (424) 324-3937
Photo of Teresa Yu, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Teresa Yu
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC, ATR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally attuned. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and respected as you navigate anxiety, identity shifts, life transitions, acculturation, or relationship stress. I value curiosity, creativity, and trust in the therapy process, drawing on your strengths to explore emotions, reframe unhelpful patterns, and support meaningful change. I believe healing happens when your story is met with empathy and when growth includes space for both progress and setbacks.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally attuned. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and respected as you navigate anxiety, identity shifts, life transitions, acculturation, or relationship stress. I value curiosity, creativity, and trust in the therapy process, drawing on your strengths to explore emotions, reframe unhelpful patterns, and support meaningful change. I believe healing happens when your story is met with empathy and when growth includes space for both progress and setbacks.
(626) 681-3485 View (626) 681-3485
Photo of Julián Aguilar-Hernández, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julián Aguilar-Hernández
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I bring over 15 years of clinical practice working with adults, adolescents, and families in English and Spanish on life transitions and crisis work. Starting in graduate school at UCLA, my focus has been elevating people's strengths while respecting their pain and loss using tools from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care. Special interests include working with individuals who identify as neurodivergent.
I bring over 15 years of clinical practice working with adults, adolescents, and families in English and Spanish on life transitions and crisis work. Starting in graduate school at UCLA, my focus has been elevating people's strengths while respecting their pain and loss using tools from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care. Special interests include working with individuals who identify as neurodivergent.
(626) 654-1673 View (626) 654-1673
Photo of Vanessa Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vanessa Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, and I’ve dedicated my career to helping people navigate life’s most complex and painful experiences. Over the years, I’ve worked in diverse settings—including dually diagnosed clinics, domestic violence shelters, community-based agencies, and private practice. Each has deepened my understanding of the human experience and strengthened my ability to support clients with a wide range of challenges.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, and I’ve dedicated my career to helping people navigate life’s most complex and painful experiences. Over the years, I’ve worked in diverse settings—including dually diagnosed clinics, domestic violence shelters, community-based agencies, and private practice. Each has deepened my understanding of the human experience and strengthened my ability to support clients with a wide range of challenges.
(626) 317-6544 View (626) 317-6544
Photo of Vivian Castaneda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Vivian Castaneda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi! I am Vivian Castaneda, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Southern California, San Gabriel Valley area. With the help of telehealth, I am able to meet with clients from anywhere in California. I have over 20 years of experience working with teens, adults, and families during life's tough transitions. My approach is always client-centered and strength-based. Life can get tough, which can lead to overwhelming thoughts and emotions. I specialize in supporting individuals and families through school, work, and life transitions.
Hi! I am Vivian Castaneda, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Southern California, San Gabriel Valley area. With the help of telehealth, I am able to meet with clients from anywhere in California. I have over 20 years of experience working with teens, adults, and families during life's tough transitions. My approach is always client-centered and strength-based. Life can get tough, which can lead to overwhelming thoughts and emotions. I specialize in supporting individuals and families through school, work, and life transitions.
(949) 776-5628 View (949) 776-5628
Photo of Patricia Carlos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Patricia Carlos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! My name is Patricia Carlos and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with adults 18+ and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress, grief, and trauma. I utilize various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! My name is Patricia Carlos and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with adults 18+ and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress, grief, and trauma. I utilize various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(747) 588-7669 View (747) 588-7669
Photo of Christina Ching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christina Ching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
Waitlist for new clients
Navigating therapy can often feel intimidating and confusing. Taking up space and speaking your truth is challenging, especially when problems and experiences that may be distressing or painful are involved. But this process isn’t one that has to be tackled alone nor are you meant to. My approach is empowering and encouraging, and I strive to provide a warm, safe, and judgment-free space that allows us to collaboratively uncover your inherent strengths and build the life you envision for yourself.
Navigating therapy can often feel intimidating and confusing. Taking up space and speaking your truth is challenging, especially when problems and experiences that may be distressing or painful are involved. But this process isn’t one that has to be tackled alone nor are you meant to. My approach is empowering and encouraging, and I strive to provide a warm, safe, and judgment-free space that allows us to collaboratively uncover your inherent strengths and build the life you envision for yourself.
(626) 316-6659 View (626) 316-6659
Photo of Jonathan Hsu, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Jonathan Hsu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
I have experience working with children, individuals, couples, families, and adolescents in therapy, Christian counseling, and pastoral counseling. With children, the focus of my experience have been play therapy and sand tray therapy, focusing on children with emotional and behavioral problems like ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, bipolar, self-mutilation/cutting, and anxiety disorder. I also have experience in working with individuals with depression, mood disorders, and anxiety, particularly with men's issues and addiction. In working with families and couples, I've focused on improving communications, creating better understanding for each other, and improving intimacy.
I have experience working with children, individuals, couples, families, and adolescents in therapy, Christian counseling, and pastoral counseling. With children, the focus of my experience have been play therapy and sand tray therapy, focusing on children with emotional and behavioral problems like ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, bipolar, self-mutilation/cutting, and anxiety disorder. I also have experience in working with individuals with depression, mood disorders, and anxiety, particularly with men's issues and addiction. In working with families and couples, I've focused on improving communications, creating better understanding for each other, and improving intimacy.
(626) 624-4110 View (626) 624-4110
Photo of Louise Polzel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Louise Polzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I think the most important aspect of therapy is someone who understands, who has been there, and who can relate. I treat mental health and addiction because I understand it personally and professionally. I feel like we all need space for support and the ability to connect with someone. My favorite saying is "progress, not perfection" this means we just get up and try daily. If you are ready to take some steps, reach out! I look forward to connecting.
I think the most important aspect of therapy is someone who understands, who has been there, and who can relate. I treat mental health and addiction because I understand it personally and professionally. I feel like we all need space for support and the ability to connect with someone. My favorite saying is "progress, not perfection" this means we just get up and try daily. If you are ready to take some steps, reach out! I look forward to connecting.
(562) 262-5620 View (562) 262-5620
Photo of Veronica Choi, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Veronica Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Are you or someone you love struggling with autism, trauma, depression, or anxiety? Maybe you desire to see changes in your life but need extra support to make those changes a reality. Or perhaps you are feeling stuck and are wondering if there is any hope for you. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes that therapy is a process in which I work together with my clients to make positive changes in their lives.
Are you or someone you love struggling with autism, trauma, depression, or anxiety? Maybe you desire to see changes in your life but need extra support to make those changes a reality. Or perhaps you are feeling stuck and are wondering if there is any hope for you. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes that therapy is a process in which I work together with my clients to make positive changes in their lives.
(909) 453-4364 View (909) 453-4364
Photo of Maribel Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC, Hablo, Espanol
Maribel Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC, Hablo, Espanol
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
(**Hablo español) Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy task. With your best interest in mind, I strive to provide a trusting, safe, and supportive environment. Whether your concerns include depression, anxiety, adjustment, relationship, or family issues, or you would like to work on enhancing your strengths, personal or career-related, or improving your self-esteem, we can work collaboratively in setting goals that can help you.
(**Hablo español) Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy task. With your best interest in mind, I strive to provide a trusting, safe, and supportive environment. Whether your concerns include depression, anxiety, adjustment, relationship, or family issues, or you would like to work on enhancing your strengths, personal or career-related, or improving your self-esteem, we can work collaboratively in setting goals that can help you.
(619) 566-1438 View (619) 566-1438
Photo of Cynthia Peña-Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cynthia Peña-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you wanting to improve your relationship with yourself, your family, friends, and/or romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, or trauma? Through therapy we can work towards healing, while identifying underlying thoughts and patterns in order to achieve long term progress. Gaining insight about our own internal "blue print" can afford us the ability to make changes that can potentially change the direction of our lives. I take a very eclectic approach, as I utilize interventions from various theoretical approaches, in order to tailor therapy to each particular client.
Are you wanting to improve your relationship with yourself, your family, friends, and/or romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, or trauma? Through therapy we can work towards healing, while identifying underlying thoughts and patterns in order to achieve long term progress. Gaining insight about our own internal "blue print" can afford us the ability to make changes that can potentially change the direction of our lives. I take a very eclectic approach, as I utilize interventions from various theoretical approaches, in order to tailor therapy to each particular client.
(562) 203-0923 View (562) 203-0923
Photo of Travis Michael Mead, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Travis Michael Mead
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for 43 years and have developed a number of specialties over the years. These include the treatment of traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, dysfunctional family of origin issues, dissociative disorders, mind/body issues, eating disorders, stress management, coping skills training and relaxation training. Besides Cognitive Therapy, I utilize EMDR, hypnosis and Alpha-Stim in my therapeutic work with clients. I also do "parts work", as in Internal Family Systems and Ericksonian Psychotherapy. I do in-person sessions: Tuesdays & Thursdays. I do Telehealth sessions: Mondays & Wednesdays.
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for 43 years and have developed a number of specialties over the years. These include the treatment of traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, dysfunctional family of origin issues, dissociative disorders, mind/body issues, eating disorders, stress management, coping skills training and relaxation training. Besides Cognitive Therapy, I utilize EMDR, hypnosis and Alpha-Stim in my therapeutic work with clients. I also do "parts work", as in Internal Family Systems and Ericksonian Psychotherapy. I do in-person sessions: Tuesdays & Thursdays. I do Telehealth sessions: Mondays & Wednesdays.
(562) 273-9822 View (562) 273-9822
Photo of Vincent Brock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Vincent Brock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
It really is time. Time to bring forward your strength to overcome your sadness and pain. Time to heal the wounds of trauma, chaos, and fear. Time to bring a peaceful balance to your day to day life. You can do this! We can do this! With some help and direction, some practice and patience, you can find positive, life changing results. We will work together; to develop behavioral strategies that can overcome your emotional challenges, build a more compassionate awareness of self and others, and bring clarity/ healing to the impact of past and present.
It really is time. Time to bring forward your strength to overcome your sadness and pain. Time to heal the wounds of trauma, chaos, and fear. Time to bring a peaceful balance to your day to day life. You can do this! We can do this! With some help and direction, some practice and patience, you can find positive, life changing results. We will work together; to develop behavioral strategies that can overcome your emotional challenges, build a more compassionate awareness of self and others, and bring clarity/ healing to the impact of past and present.
(562) 452-0815 View (562) 452-0815

See more therapy options for Hacienda Heights

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hacienda Heights, CA

30+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Hacienda Heights, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
90% Anxiety
87% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
72% Grief
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
62% Cigna and Evernorth
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Hacienda Heights, CA see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hacienda Heights?

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.