Therapists in Mojave, CA

Photo of Jennifer Thibodeau, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Jennifer Thibodeau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Many of my clients come to therapy carrying the weight of trauma, grief, or the unique stressors that come with military life, deployment, reintegration, and the ongoing effort to stay connected in the face of challenge. Whether you are navigating PTSD, struggling with intimacy, or working through family transitions, your goal is often the same: to find stability, resilience, and deeper connection with yourself and those you love.
Many of my clients come to therapy carrying the weight of trauma, grief, or the unique stressors that come with military life, deployment, reintegration, and the ongoing effort to stay connected in the face of challenge. Whether you are navigating PTSD, struggling with intimacy, or working through family transitions, your goal is often the same: to find stability, resilience, and deeper connection with yourself and those you love.
(661) 990-9517 View (661) 990-9517
Photo of Anasa Storay-Demby, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Anasa Storay-Demby
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling, specializing in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and substance abuse. My person-centered approach incorporates CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy, tailored to each client's needs. I focus on empowering individuals to build coping skills, emotional regulation, and long-term growth.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling, specializing in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and substance abuse. My person-centered approach incorporates CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy, tailored to each client's needs. I focus on empowering individuals to build coping skills, emotional regulation, and long-term growth.
(747) 836-3428 View (747) 836-3428
Photo of Brianna Armour, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Brianna Armour
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Accepting new clients for online therapy - I help adults and teens overcome anxious thoughts and depressive mood relating to work, school, or relationship. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients by building a strong therapeutic relationship using empathy, compassion, and personal and professional knowledge. My approach is person-centered and strengths based, as well as utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness to help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Accepting new clients for online therapy - I help adults and teens overcome anxious thoughts and depressive mood relating to work, school, or relationship. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients by building a strong therapeutic relationship using empathy, compassion, and personal and professional knowledge. My approach is person-centered and strengths based, as well as utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness to help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
(925) 332-1284 View (925) 332-1284
Photo of Kelly Castillo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kelly Castillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, I’m Kelly Castillo, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s most difficult challenges—whether you're facing childhood trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or major life transitions. My mission is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the future, therapy can be a powerful space for healing, growth, and self-discovery.
Hi, I’m Kelly Castillo, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s most difficult challenges—whether you're facing childhood trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or major life transitions. My mission is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the future, therapy can be a powerful space for healing, growth, and self-discovery.
(661) 485-5285 View (661) 485-5285

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Conklin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Karen Conklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
My experiences include: 60+ years of living, on both coasts and the Midwest too, one marriage, a son and daughter, a B.A. in Advertising, an M.A. in Clinical Psychology, a Middle School counselor, a psychotherapist to our war veterans, an Adolescent Specialist, a Marriage psychologist, and an all-around Seasoned Professional.
My experiences include: 60+ years of living, on both coasts and the Midwest too, one marriage, a son and daughter, a B.A. in Advertising, an M.A. in Clinical Psychology, a Middle School counselor, a psychotherapist to our war veterans, an Adolescent Specialist, a Marriage psychologist, and an all-around Seasoned Professional.
(949) 704-5349 View (949) 704-5349
Photo of Brian Dillon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brian Dillon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Brian! Life can be challenging, stressful, and painful. While our friends and family may be there to help us, sometimes we need the assistance of an unbiased, non-judgmental professional to process what we go through and the emotional baggage we carry with us. I like to use psychodynamic techniques to help my clients process & make sense of their painful childhood memories and attachment patterns. I find it helpful to utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to assist my clients in identifying the influence their thoughts can have on their feelings and how these feelings can impact their behavior.
Hi there, I'm Brian! Life can be challenging, stressful, and painful. While our friends and family may be there to help us, sometimes we need the assistance of an unbiased, non-judgmental professional to process what we go through and the emotional baggage we carry with us. I like to use psychodynamic techniques to help my clients process & make sense of their painful childhood memories and attachment patterns. I find it helpful to utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to assist my clients in identifying the influence their thoughts can have on their feelings and how these feelings can impact their behavior.
(341) 218-5379 View (341) 218-5379
Photo of Tatiana Benton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tatiana Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I provide mental health counseling to individuals in office/ or telehealth options. I am credentialed with Tricare and service military members and their families. I provide low cost and sliding scale psycho-educational assessments to adults. I can address issues such PTSD, postpartum, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders and eating disorders. I will protect your confidentiality and will meet all ethical standards associated with the practice of therapy.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I provide mental health counseling to individuals in office/ or telehealth options. I am credentialed with Tricare and service military members and their families. I provide low cost and sliding scale psycho-educational assessments to adults. I can address issues such PTSD, postpartum, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders and eating disorders. I will protect your confidentiality and will meet all ethical standards associated with the practice of therapy.
(858) 746-5350 View (858) 746-5350
Photo of Valerie Pilgreen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Valerie Pilgreen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Palmdale, CA 93550
A wise man once said “Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light.” - Albus Dumbledore, as written in Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling. Yes, Dumbledore is fictional, but his words ring true for many. My goal is to help you find that light switch in order to let your own internal light shine through. As we move through different life events, we are all bound to find ourselves needing help and support in time of turmoil. My goal is to help you feel supported, validated, and heard as you work through traumas, concerns, or worries.
A wise man once said “Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light.” - Albus Dumbledore, as written in Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling. Yes, Dumbledore is fictional, but his words ring true for many. My goal is to help you find that light switch in order to let your own internal light shine through. As we move through different life events, we are all bound to find ourselves needing help and support in time of turmoil. My goal is to help you feel supported, validated, and heard as you work through traumas, concerns, or worries.
(661) 732-1763 View (661) 732-1763
Photo of Krystal Handy - Handy Life Counseling & Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Handy Life Counseling & Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Handy Life Counseling & Coaching (HLCC) offers high-quality therapeutic services to adults and couples for most clinical areas ranging from: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, infidelity, intimacy concerns, co-occurring disorders and work-related trauma and micro-aggressions that cause or exacerbate mental health challenges. HLCC specializes in treatment of: survivors of trauma, residual impact of the BIPOC (i.e., Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, Christians that practice or struggle with their practice of the faith, and those “of any ethnicity” seeking racial inquiry, reconciliation and healing in today’s climate.
Handy Life Counseling & Coaching (HLCC) offers high-quality therapeutic services to adults and couples for most clinical areas ranging from: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, infidelity, intimacy concerns, co-occurring disorders and work-related trauma and micro-aggressions that cause or exacerbate mental health challenges. HLCC specializes in treatment of: survivors of trauma, residual impact of the BIPOC (i.e., Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, Christians that practice or struggle with their practice of the faith, and those “of any ethnicity” seeking racial inquiry, reconciliation and healing in today’s climate.
(661) 215-8302 View (661) 215-8302
Photo of Dr. Joanna Stan, Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Dr. Joanna Stan
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Online Only
Clients are received with genuine care, kindness, and an open heart. I listen deeply to your concerns and aspirations, honoring your journey while gently supporting you through any obstacles. Together, we will thoughtfully design practical steps that help you move toward the goals that matter most to you. Beyond her formal education and training, Dr. Stan brings a wealth of experience supporting individuals in recovery. She is deeply attuned to the pain and courage of those healing from trauma and abuse, and stands as a compassionate ally, helping clients navigate challenges with empathy and hope.
Clients are received with genuine care, kindness, and an open heart. I listen deeply to your concerns and aspirations, honoring your journey while gently supporting you through any obstacles. Together, we will thoughtfully design practical steps that help you move toward the goals that matter most to you. Beyond her formal education and training, Dr. Stan brings a wealth of experience supporting individuals in recovery. She is deeply attuned to the pain and courage of those healing from trauma and abuse, and stands as a compassionate ally, helping clients navigate challenges with empathy and hope.
(213) 658-2184 View (213) 658-2184
Photo of Kevin Moccardini, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kevin Moccardini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi! I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I received my masters degree from Cal St Northridge and have been working with individuals (adults and children), couples and families for the past 30 years and have been working as a professional therapist for nearly 20 years. My passion has been for most of my life to help those with hurts, habits and hang ups. My practice is named Journey Counseling and the name implies life is a journey and I want to help with all the bumps, curves, road blocks life throws at us as we drive down the road of life.
Hi! I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I received my masters degree from Cal St Northridge and have been working with individuals (adults and children), couples and families for the past 30 years and have been working as a professional therapist for nearly 20 years. My passion has been for most of my life to help those with hurts, habits and hang ups. My practice is named Journey Counseling and the name implies life is a journey and I want to help with all the bumps, curves, road blocks life throws at us as we drive down the road of life.
(661) 465-6621 View (661) 465-6621
Photo of Debbie Lugtu, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Debbie Lugtu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Debbie Grace Lugtu. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have my master's degree in counseling. I graduated from Palo Alto University in 2020 with Counseling Honor Society. I work from a strength-based and narrative therapy approach. In the first sessions, I highly focus on rapport building and listening to your narrative/story. Throughout our work, I use an attachment-based lens to figure out the underlying issue and where issue has stemmed from. I use narrative therapy to re-author your story. Alongside, I teach coping skills such as Mindfulness and CBT.
Hello, my name is Debbie Grace Lugtu. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have my master's degree in counseling. I graduated from Palo Alto University in 2020 with Counseling Honor Society. I work from a strength-based and narrative therapy approach. In the first sessions, I highly focus on rapport building and listening to your narrative/story. Throughout our work, I use an attachment-based lens to figure out the underlying issue and where issue has stemmed from. I use narrative therapy to re-author your story. Alongside, I teach coping skills such as Mindfulness and CBT.
(562) 784-4543 View (562) 784-4543
Photo of Judith Sorto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Judith Sorto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience working with various populations. I am experienced with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem and life transitions. I have experience with developmental disorders and learning disabilities. My approach is tailored to the needs of each individual and family.
Hi, I am a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience working with various populations. I am experienced with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem and life transitions. I have experience with developmental disorders and learning disabilities. My approach is tailored to the needs of each individual and family.
(661) 367-8608 View (661) 367-8608
Photo of Ashley Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Ashley Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
Sometimes in life we face situations that cause us to feel stuck, unsure of what to do, or a desire to seek insight and a better understanding of our true selves. Therapy can offer an opportunity to explore areas in which you may want to become more in touch with your authentic self, make changes or talk about difficult things that you're experiencing.
Sometimes in life we face situations that cause us to feel stuck, unsure of what to do, or a desire to seek insight and a better understanding of our true selves. Therapy can offer an opportunity to explore areas in which you may want to become more in touch with your authentic self, make changes or talk about difficult things that you're experiencing.
(661) 402-8633 View (661) 402-8633
Photo of Virginia Alvizo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Virginia Alvizo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have experience working with various ages from 3 to 50 years old. I have worked in community-based mental health services to intensive services with children and adults. Do you ever feel mixed emotions about specific events, situations, or relationships? Do you want to become more self-aware of yourself as an individual and increase your motivation? I love exploring self-awareness and self-love. I have a very open-minded style, but can also be transparent to help motivate and challenge you. I enjoy making a difference in others’ lives.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have experience working with various ages from 3 to 50 years old. I have worked in community-based mental health services to intensive services with children and adults. Do you ever feel mixed emotions about specific events, situations, or relationships? Do you want to become more self-aware of yourself as an individual and increase your motivation? I love exploring self-awareness and self-love. I have a very open-minded style, but can also be transparent to help motivate and challenge you. I enjoy making a difference in others’ lives.
(424) 250-1013 View (424) 250-1013
Photo of Keshia Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Keshia Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Keshia, an LMFT with over 10 years of experience. I enjoy working with different populations of people including BIPOC, Women, Teens and young adults, etc. struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, parenting, trauma, PTSD, and pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum issues. I mainly utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, and am also trained in different Evidenced Based Practices (Parent-child interaction therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Seeking Safety, etc.) of, which are considered depending on the age of the client and the symptoms and behaviors that are presented.
Hi there, I'm Keshia, an LMFT with over 10 years of experience. I enjoy working with different populations of people including BIPOC, Women, Teens and young adults, etc. struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, parenting, trauma, PTSD, and pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum issues. I mainly utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, and am also trained in different Evidenced Based Practices (Parent-child interaction therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Seeking Safety, etc.) of, which are considered depending on the age of the client and the symptoms and behaviors that are presented.
(951) 309-7435 View (951) 309-7435
Photo of Isabel Cazarez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Isabel Cazarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, CA 93534
Waitlist for new clients
If you're seeking peace, clarity, and a deeper connection with yourself or your partner, you're in the right place. Whether it’s hopelessness, anxiety, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you create lasting change. Together, we’ll navigate the messiness of life, explore your true needs, and create a path forward, one where you can feel empowered and at peace.
If you're seeking peace, clarity, and a deeper connection with yourself or your partner, you're in the right place. Whether it’s hopelessness, anxiety, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you create lasting change. Together, we’ll navigate the messiness of life, explore your true needs, and create a path forward, one where you can feel empowered and at peace.
(661) 263-4813 View (661) 263-4813
Photo of Laura M Guise, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC , LCAC, LPCC, LPC-MH
Laura M Guise
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC , LCAC, LPCC, LPC-MH
Online Only
Looking for individuals who would benefit from experiencing compassion, empathy, and acceptance in a therapeutic venture. I would like to join you in your journey to heal and redefine your life's story. Therapy is about learning more about the self and figuring out what needs to be different, and developing a new perspective. I want to help you identify and to address symptoms that are impairing the ability to function on a daily basis or causing interference in creating or maintaining connections with others. Let's be curious together to figure out the healing process and begin to thrive.
Looking for individuals who would benefit from experiencing compassion, empathy, and acceptance in a therapeutic venture. I would like to join you in your journey to heal and redefine your life's story. Therapy is about learning more about the self and figuring out what needs to be different, and developing a new perspective. I want to help you identify and to address symptoms that are impairing the ability to function on a daily basis or causing interference in creating or maintaining connections with others. Let's be curious together to figure out the healing process and begin to thrive.
(317) 953-4095 View (317) 953-4095
Photo of Cathy Marutzky, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, NCC
Cathy Marutzky
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor and I have enjoyed working with children, teens, and adults for thirty years. I feel passionate about helping individuals and couples find peace and healing for their lives and relationships. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger or relationship issues I can offer help. As a couple you may feel like you need to learn communication skills or how to reconnect emotionally. Perhaps you are having family problems and need help finding resolution. I have found that counseling provides the tools and resources to help us manage and overcome life's challenges.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor and I have enjoyed working with children, teens, and adults for thirty years. I feel passionate about helping individuals and couples find peace and healing for their lives and relationships. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger or relationship issues I can offer help. As a couple you may feel like you need to learn communication skills or how to reconnect emotionally. Perhaps you are having family problems and need help finding resolution. I have found that counseling provides the tools and resources to help us manage and overcome life's challenges.
(402) 807-0310 View (402) 807-0310
Photo of Gaby Pena, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gaby Pena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lancaster, CA 93534
I offer bilingual therapy services in English and Spanish for individuals and couples. I use a range of treatment modalities to best support each client’s unique needs. I’m experienced with Child and Family Services court orders and have worked with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I’m committed to providing effective, compassionate care and offer both in-person and virtual sessions to ensure accessibility and convenience.
I offer bilingual therapy services in English and Spanish for individuals and couples. I use a range of treatment modalities to best support each client’s unique needs. I’m experienced with Child and Family Services court orders and have worked with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I’m committed to providing effective, compassionate care and offer both in-person and virtual sessions to ensure accessibility and convenience.
(661) 762-5067 View (661) 762-5067

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mojave, CA

< 10

Therapists in Mojave, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Family Conflict
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
75% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Anthem

How Therapists in Mojave, CA see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mojave?

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.