Therapists in Lawrence, NJ

Photo of Rebecca Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(609) 722-7354 View (609) 722-7354
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(609) 527-3147 View (609) 527-3147
Photo of Michelle Ens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Michelle Ens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
My ideal client is an individual who seeks to be genuine, open minded, and has a growth mindset. This individual wants to gain insight into their struggles and symptoms with the intention or forging a new path of awareness and action. This individual is open to learning to manage challenges, grow as a person, and strive towards his/her or their endeavors.
My ideal client is an individual who seeks to be genuine, open minded, and has a growth mindset. This individual wants to gain insight into their struggles and symptoms with the intention or forging a new path of awareness and action. This individual is open to learning to manage challenges, grow as a person, and strive towards his/her or their endeavors.
(609) 739-8183 View (609) 739-8183
Photo of Eren Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Eren Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I have experience working with men and women of all ages who are dealing with stress, anxiety/depression, and unresolved trauma and loss. I am passionate about hearing your story and journeying with you to explore your therapeutic needs/concerns. I will also help you identify core issues such as life transitions, stressors or negative core beliefs, or cognitive distortions and provide the support and tools that you need to achieve your therapeutic goals.
I have experience working with men and women of all ages who are dealing with stress, anxiety/depression, and unresolved trauma and loss. I am passionate about hearing your story and journeying with you to explore your therapeutic needs/concerns. I will also help you identify core issues such as life transitions, stressors or negative core beliefs, or cognitive distortions and provide the support and tools that you need to achieve your therapeutic goals.
(609) 631-3162 View (609) 631-3162
Photo of Alaine Robertson-Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Alaine Robertson-Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
(609) 798-7162 View (609) 798-7162
Photo of Susan Buchalter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Susan Buchalter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT, CGP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I am both an art therapist and counselor with many years of experience working with individuals challenged with issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life's changes. I can help you express and explore your core beliefs and concerns in a safe, calming, non-judgmental environment. In addition to traditional verbal therapy, I offer art therapy, mindfulness, and creative writing/journaling. *Art Therapy allows for expression of feelings using materials such as markers, paint, and pastels. It is a non-threatening and more immediate method to voice issues; drawing ability is not important.
I am both an art therapist and counselor with many years of experience working with individuals challenged with issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life's changes. I can help you express and explore your core beliefs and concerns in a safe, calming, non-judgmental environment. In addition to traditional verbal therapy, I offer art therapy, mindfulness, and creative writing/journaling. *Art Therapy allows for expression of feelings using materials such as markers, paint, and pastels. It is a non-threatening and more immediate method to voice issues; drawing ability is not important.
(609) 375-1713 View (609) 375-1713
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
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) 418-4632 View (609) 418-4632
Photo of Katie Cartwright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Katie Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
The ideal client is anyone who acknowledges they are open to change. As Yogi Berra famously said, "Ninety percent of this game is half mental, the other half is physical." Openness to thinking in new ways and then backing that up with new behaviors is crucial to successful change.
The ideal client is anyone who acknowledges they are open to change. As Yogi Berra famously said, "Ninety percent of this game is half mental, the other half is physical." Openness to thinking in new ways and then backing that up with new behaviors is crucial to successful change.
(609) 293-4018 View (609) 293-4018
Photo of Farah Chery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Farah Chery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
My ideal client would be someone who has a difficult time adjusting to new social stressors within their daily life. Their needs are managing new challenges and stressors and gaining skills and techniques to manage them in a healthy positive way.
My ideal client would be someone who has a difficult time adjusting to new social stressors within their daily life. Their needs are managing new challenges and stressors and gaining skills and techniques to manage them in a healthy positive way.
(609) 853-5072 View (609) 853-5072
Photo of DBT at Village Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
DBT at Village Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DO, DrNP, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
Village Counseling Services offers the longest running comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program in central New Jersey. To uphold the integrity of the DBT treatment model, we feature a structured and selective intake process and all members of our DBT Consultation Team have been intensively trained. We provide our clients with intensive, individualized treatment by maintaining a small therapist-to-client ratio and by offering DBT skills training in small groups. Our DBT program offers several DBT skills groups per week providing services to children ages 9 to 13, adolescents ages 14 to 18, adults and family members.
Village Counseling Services offers the longest running comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program in central New Jersey. To uphold the integrity of the DBT treatment model, we feature a structured and selective intake process and all members of our DBT Consultation Team have been intensively trained. We provide our clients with intensive, individualized treatment by maintaining a small therapist-to-client ratio and by offering DBT skills training in small groups. Our DBT program offers several DBT skills groups per week providing services to children ages 9 to 13, adolescents ages 14 to 18, adults and family members.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Carol G Quick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Carol G Quick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Couples come to me for help managing their conflict. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients, and couples to be heard, to facilitate ownership of their part of the relationship energy. This is a process of creating intention and consciousness. I help clients understand what they bring to their relationships and ways to make changes in a non-judgmental, accepting, caring way. I am a trained Imago Relationship therapist. I am also a Certified Trainer of the Nurtured Heart Approach to parenting when working with family conflict.
I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Couples come to me for help managing their conflict. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients, and couples to be heard, to facilitate ownership of their part of the relationship energy. This is a process of creating intention and consciousness. I help clients understand what they bring to their relationships and ways to make changes in a non-judgmental, accepting, caring way. I am a trained Imago Relationship therapist. I am also a Certified Trainer of the Nurtured Heart Approach to parenting when working with family conflict.
(215) 874-3803 View (215) 874-3803
Photo of George Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
George Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
Our lives change. Some of these changes are welcomed while others can be overwhelming and create fear. When your life becomes difficult to manage, when there is regular conflict among family members, when anger and addictions become the preferred way of addressing concerns, when sadness has replaced optimism, it it time to seek the support of a counselor or family therapist. I am always honored to be invited into an individual's or family's personal story, to listen, to support, to create solutions. My therapy, in addition to offering accepted treatment practices, offers each person the respect they deserve in a safe environment.
Our lives change. Some of these changes are welcomed while others can be overwhelming and create fear. When your life becomes difficult to manage, when there is regular conflict among family members, when anger and addictions become the preferred way of addressing concerns, when sadness has replaced optimism, it it time to seek the support of a counselor or family therapist. I am always honored to be invited into an individual's or family's personal story, to listen, to support, to create solutions. My therapy, in addition to offering accepted treatment practices, offers each person the respect they deserve in a safe environment.
(609) 961-9267 View (609) 961-9267
Photo of Beverly A Hodsden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Beverly A Hodsden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I believe that all people should be treated with kindness, dignity and respect. No one should feel less than because of any issue they have. Counseling is a process of self discovery that sometimes needs compassionate guidance to help clients uncover their inner resources.
I believe that all people should be treated with kindness, dignity and respect. No one should feel less than because of any issue they have. Counseling is a process of self discovery that sometimes needs compassionate guidance to help clients uncover their inner resources.
(609) 766-0861 View (609) 766-0861
Photo of Brian L'Oiseau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Brian L'Oiseau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
At KNIC Counseling we believe that 'Knowledge is Necessary for the Improvement of our Communities.' We are community oriented and use knowledge from the theoretical perspective of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in our implementation of professional counseling services. Our goal is to empower clients to overcome life issues through clinical therapy. BRIAN L'OISEAU, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH manages KNIC Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. Brian L'Oiseau received his Bachelors in Psychology from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. He received his Masters in Counselor Education from Kean University.
At KNIC Counseling we believe that 'Knowledge is Necessary for the Improvement of our Communities.' We are community oriented and use knowledge from the theoretical perspective of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in our implementation of professional counseling services. Our goal is to empower clients to overcome life issues through clinical therapy. BRIAN L'OISEAU, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH manages KNIC Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. Brian L'Oiseau received his Bachelors in Psychology from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. He received his Masters in Counselor Education from Kean University.
(609) 812-2101 View (609) 812-2101
Photo of David Kensler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
David Kensler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I quickly work with my clients to help them develop skills to cope with life challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, substance use, grief & loss, and life transitions. I work with clients both short and long-term, depending on each client's needs and interests.
I quickly work with my clients to help them develop skills to cope with life challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, substance use, grief & loss, and life transitions. I work with clients both short and long-term, depending on each client's needs and interests.
(215) 607-6561 View (215) 607-6561
Photo of Sophia Fishbane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Sophia Fishbane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
In the past 11 years I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families in a therapeutic partnership. Making the decision to focus on oneself and start working with a therapist can be life changing and I applaud you for taking the time to focus on yourself. Therapy can be enlightening and help create positive and lasting changes. But it can also be intimidating when starting this process. This is why the therapeutic relationship is so important. As a therapist it is my goal to work with you to help you unlock your greatness and move past any barriers that are holding you back.
In the past 11 years I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families in a therapeutic partnership. Making the decision to focus on oneself and start working with a therapist can be life changing and I applaud you for taking the time to focus on yourself. Therapy can be enlightening and help create positive and lasting changes. But it can also be intimidating when starting this process. This is why the therapeutic relationship is so important. As a therapist it is my goal to work with you to help you unlock your greatness and move past any barriers that are holding you back.
(609) 849-3437 View (609) 849-3437
Photo of Gretel J. LaVieri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Gretel J. LaVieri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
Not accepting new clients
I offer a hybrid practice: house calls & telehealth. I started my home visit practice to make therapy accessible to those who can't get to an office, and I remain deeply committed to that value. Chronic or progressive illness, chronic pain, physical disability, & even just an aging body can make travel to an office out of reach. Certainly telehealth has been a life saver. Yet being able to meet safely in person to address worries & fears, sadness, grief, loneliness, isolation, and loss of meaning in life can be transformative. Are you willing to explore ways to be with life as it is, and act based on what's in your heart?
I offer a hybrid practice: house calls & telehealth. I started my home visit practice to make therapy accessible to those who can't get to an office, and I remain deeply committed to that value. Chronic or progressive illness, chronic pain, physical disability, & even just an aging body can make travel to an office out of reach. Certainly telehealth has been a life saver. Yet being able to meet safely in person to address worries & fears, sadness, grief, loneliness, isolation, and loss of meaning in life can be transformative. Are you willing to explore ways to be with life as it is, and act based on what's in your heart?
(609) 474-6272 View (609) 474-6272
Photo of Chelsea Totaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Chelsea Totaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Chelsea. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work with adults and teens and specialize in the needs of college students and young adults during times of transition. My therapeutic approach is centered on helping you explore the full spectrum of your emotions and experiences, fostering acceptance, self-love and growth. I take a holistic approach that acknowledges the interconnected aspects of one's experience. I hold 10 years experience helping people find healing and growth - supporting people with mood and anxiety disorders, navigating relationships, finding their voice, and learning to trust themselves.
Hi, I'm Chelsea. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work with adults and teens and specialize in the needs of college students and young adults during times of transition. My therapeutic approach is centered on helping you explore the full spectrum of your emotions and experiences, fostering acceptance, self-love and growth. I take a holistic approach that acknowledges the interconnected aspects of one's experience. I hold 10 years experience helping people find healing and growth - supporting people with mood and anxiety disorders, navigating relationships, finding their voice, and learning to trust themselves.
(609) 293-4550 View (609) 293-4550

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Russell Healy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lawrence, NJ
Russell Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
After 37 years of clinical experience, I have limited my practice to transgender-identified minors, their parents and transgender adults. Because transgender experience is not a psychopathology, my approach emphasizes assessment, case management, referrals to medical providers, education, and counseling related to transgender experience. If you want help for a minor, please know that I follow the current standards of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health. I work in a thorough, time effective manner. If the minor is seeing a therapist for a co-occurring condition I will collaborate with that provider.
After 37 years of clinical experience, I have limited my practice to transgender-identified minors, their parents and transgender adults. Because transgender experience is not a psychopathology, my approach emphasizes assessment, case management, referrals to medical providers, education, and counseling related to transgender experience. If you want help for a minor, please know that I follow the current standards of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health. I work in a thorough, time effective manner. If the minor is seeing a therapist for a co-occurring condition I will collaborate with that provider.
(908) 349-1179 View (908) 349-1179
Photo of Holistic Behavioral Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lawrence, NJ
Holistic Behavioral Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ewing, NJ 08638
***Currently we are accepting clients for the waiting list only*** We are also actively hiring licensed clinicians that seek to work in diverse, just, and affirming practices. Please email us for more information. I/ We help CHANGE happen; families move to a place of harmony with greater connectedness and a sense of healing. Change requires experience and SUPPORT. Using a professional, highly rated counselor helps that change to happen today.
***Currently we are accepting clients for the waiting list only*** We are also actively hiring licensed clinicians that seek to work in diverse, just, and affirming practices. Please email us for more information. I/ We help CHANGE happen; families move to a place of harmony with greater connectedness and a sense of healing. Change requires experience and SUPPORT. Using a professional, highly rated counselor helps that change to happen today.
(609) 752-3098 View (609) 752-3098

See more therapy options for Lawrence

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lawrence, NJ

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Lawrence, NJ who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
83% Grief
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
61% Anger Management
61% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Lawrence, NJ see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lawrence?

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.