Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Jeff Johnson, Pastoral Counselor in Apex, NC
Jeff Johnson
Pastoral Counselor, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
(910) 400-1912 View (910) 400-1912
Photo of Kamini Wood Certified Life Coach in Apex, NC
Kamini Wood Certified Life Coach
CLC, CWC, CPM
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523
Meet Kamini Wood, an AADP Certified Life and Wellness Coach - Kamini’s mission is to guide her clients in nurturing their mental, emotional, physical and strategic plans for their lives. She works collaboratively with her clients to address both external goals and challenges, as well as the internal responses, thoughts and behaviors that may hinder their desired results. Internal obstacles that get in the way include lack of boundaries, people-pleasing, over giving, over functioning, hyper achievement, perfectionism, procrastination, burnout. She works with teens through adults.
Meet Kamini Wood, an AADP Certified Life and Wellness Coach - Kamini’s mission is to guide her clients in nurturing their mental, emotional, physical and strategic plans for their lives. She works collaboratively with her clients to address both external goals and challenges, as well as the internal responses, thoughts and behaviors that may hinder their desired results. Internal obstacles that get in the way include lack of boundaries, people-pleasing, over giving, over functioning, hyper achievement, perfectionism, procrastination, burnout. She works with teens through adults.
(984) 209-1229 View (984) 209-1229
Photo of Nathan Webber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Apex, NC
Nathan Webber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMCHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Finding the right counselor is very important! With that in mind, don't read a bio and pick someone. Take advantage of my free 20 minute phone consultation! That's all it's going to take to tell if I'll be a good fit or not. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. I'm good at getting people to talk about what the real problem is and not dance around the elephant in the room. You are not always going to get from me what you want to hear but I guarantee you are going to get from me what you need to hear.
Finding the right counselor is very important! With that in mind, don't read a bio and pick someone. Take advantage of my free 20 minute phone consultation! That's all it's going to take to tell if I'll be a good fit or not. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. I'm good at getting people to talk about what the real problem is and not dance around the elephant in the room. You are not always going to get from me what you want to hear but I guarantee you are going to get from me what you need to hear.
(919) 229-8990 View (919) 229-8990
Photo of Sarah E Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Sarah E Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
It is brave for you to be here and willing to take steps to have more from life. Many of us were taught that we just need to try harder. Often, I find that we need to try differently instead of harder. Struggling in quicksand will not get you out. Navigating our world is scary, painful, and often lonely. Whether relationship issues, perfectionism, parenting challenges, impossible expectation, or trying to be you in an unaccepting world, you do not have to struggle alone. I would be honored to come beside you and be a part of your journey towards something more fulfilling.
It is brave for you to be here and willing to take steps to have more from life. Many of us were taught that we just need to try harder. Often, I find that we need to try differently instead of harder. Struggling in quicksand will not get you out. Navigating our world is scary, painful, and often lonely. Whether relationship issues, perfectionism, parenting challenges, impossible expectation, or trying to be you in an unaccepting world, you do not have to struggle alone. I would be honored to come beside you and be a part of your journey towards something more fulfilling.
(919) 695-9112 View (919) 695-9112
Photo of Marion Reeves Anderson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Apex, NC
Marion Reeves Anderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
(919) 213-0276 View (919) 213-0276
Photo of Katherine Conlon Hutchinson, Psychologist in Apex, NC
Katherine Conlon Hutchinson
Psychologist, PhD, CDWF-C
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Not accepting new clients
I am licensed psychologist with an interest and expertise in anxiety, depression and family/parenting stress. I also treat perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, including postpartum depression. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health across the lifespan, from teen to older adult.
I am licensed psychologist with an interest and expertise in anxiety, depression and family/parenting stress. I also treat perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, including postpartum depression. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health across the lifespan, from teen to older adult.
(919) 303-0377 View (919) 303-0377
Photo of Meredith Hanes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Meredith Hanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently on a waitlist- please reach out to get an idea of the current time frame. We have other providers at our practice open to new clients now- see link below. If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about life changes I'd like to help. If you feel like you’ve hit a stuck place and don’t know what to do next, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. Finding the right person to share your story with can be a tough decision- let me share with you a bit about myself to help make your decision easier!
I am currently on a waitlist- please reach out to get an idea of the current time frame. We have other providers at our practice open to new clients now- see link below. If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about life changes I'd like to help. If you feel like you’ve hit a stuck place and don’t know what to do next, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. Finding the right person to share your story with can be a tough decision- let me share with you a bit about myself to help make your decision easier!
(919) 276-8251 View (919) 276-8251
Photo of Lisa Yates, Counselor in Apex, NC
Lisa Yates
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I believe all individuals deserve respect and dignity. I am passionate in regards to processing experiences and navigating options for moving forward. I believe, as individuals, we function as a whole through physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual values and priorities. My goal is to create an environment in which these can be investigated, processed, and utilized in planning and moving forward into a functional and meaningful life.
I believe all individuals deserve respect and dignity. I am passionate in regards to processing experiences and navigating options for moving forward. I believe, as individuals, we function as a whole through physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual values and priorities. My goal is to create an environment in which these can be investigated, processed, and utilized in planning and moving forward into a functional and meaningful life.
(984) 205-5591 View (984) 205-5591
Photo of Meaghan Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Meaghan Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Are you interested in therapy, but feeling unsure about finding someone who you can relate to and trust? No matter what challenge brings you here, I’m ready to help! I offer a down-to-Earth approach with unique solutions for real problems. We will identify your strengths and together formulate a plan to meet your therapy goals on your terms. Change can be a difficult process, but I am here to walk through it with you.
Are you interested in therapy, but feeling unsure about finding someone who you can relate to and trust? No matter what challenge brings you here, I’m ready to help! I offer a down-to-Earth approach with unique solutions for real problems. We will identify your strengths and together formulate a plan to meet your therapy goals on your terms. Change can be a difficult process, but I am here to walk through it with you.
(984) 300-4724 View (984) 300-4724
Photo of Mandy Anglemyer, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Apex, NC
Mandy Anglemyer
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
At times navigating life can be difficult and feel overwhelming. My passion lies in walking with you to gain insight, understand and solve problems, clarify values, and find more balance in life. I value the uniqueness of each person, which helps build on your strengths, self-acceptance, and healing. I strive to empower you to be self-compassionate as you journey through vulnerability and discomfort to reach a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience.
At times navigating life can be difficult and feel overwhelming. My passion lies in walking with you to gain insight, understand and solve problems, clarify values, and find more balance in life. I value the uniqueness of each person, which helps build on your strengths, self-acceptance, and healing. I strive to empower you to be self-compassionate as you journey through vulnerability and discomfort to reach a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience.
(919) 374-3032 View (919) 374-3032
Photo of Maggie Powell, Counselor in Apex, NC
Maggie Powell
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a DBT-informed and psychodynamically-oriented therapist working at Lifescapes Counseling Associates. My first priority is the quality of my relationships with my clients. I care deeply about our trust and rapport and know that a positive clinical relationship is necessary for therapy to be successful. I am currently taking continuing education courses at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas where I am working through an intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy training program. These courses will allow me to increase the depth of our sessions and improve my understanding of you.
Hello! I am a DBT-informed and psychodynamically-oriented therapist working at Lifescapes Counseling Associates. My first priority is the quality of my relationships with my clients. I care deeply about our trust and rapport and know that a positive clinical relationship is necessary for therapy to be successful. I am currently taking continuing education courses at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas where I am working through an intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy training program. These courses will allow me to increase the depth of our sessions and improve my understanding of you.
(919) 804-0348 View (919) 804-0348
Photo of Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
(919) 626-3379 View (919) 626-3379
Photo of Isabella Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Isabella Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523  (Online Only)
My goal is to lend a compassionate hand to guide you through coping with the past and promoting healing for the future to achieve the best version of yourself. My passion lies in working with people from all walks of life to manage emotions and relationships. Whether you are trying to cope with a history of trauma or complexity, navigating a challenging life event or transition, or in the midst of conflict, I can help you achieve a more peaceful, fulfilling and resilient self through building on the skills you already have.
My goal is to lend a compassionate hand to guide you through coping with the past and promoting healing for the future to achieve the best version of yourself. My passion lies in working with people from all walks of life to manage emotions and relationships. Whether you are trying to cope with a history of trauma or complexity, navigating a challenging life event or transition, or in the midst of conflict, I can help you achieve a more peaceful, fulfilling and resilient self through building on the skills you already have.
(919) 629-1230 View (919) 629-1230
Photo of Tammy Holcomb, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Apex, NC
Tammy Holcomb
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, CEDS, NBCCH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
(919) 323-4002 View (919) 323-4002
Photo of Taylor Trull, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Apex, NC
Taylor Trull
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
(984) 600-0978 View (984) 600-0978
Photo of Melissa Aguilar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Apex, NC
Melissa Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed in how to manage your emotions or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your relationships (marital, parent-child, parent-teenager, family, or friends)? Do you find yourself becoming irritable at small things or simply being someone you do not want to be anymore? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, I am glad you have found my page. We all have difficult times throughout our life and it is okay to need and ask for help. Difficult times or difficult symptoms vary from person to person. I am here to help guide you and find ways to alleviate your concerns.
Are you feeling overwhelmed in how to manage your emotions or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your relationships (marital, parent-child, parent-teenager, family, or friends)? Do you find yourself becoming irritable at small things or simply being someone you do not want to be anymore? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, I am glad you have found my page. We all have difficult times throughout our life and it is okay to need and ask for help. Difficult times or difficult symptoms vary from person to person. I am here to help guide you and find ways to alleviate your concerns.
(919) 351-6417 View (919) 351-6417
Photo of Meredith Paige Capps, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Apex, NC
Meredith Paige Capps
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS-A, LPN
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523
Not accepting new clients
I want to help anyone who has emotional pain and/or trauma and is trying to alleviate that by self-medicating in any way, be it alcohol, substances, food, or behaviors.
I want to help anyone who has emotional pain and/or trauma and is trying to alleviate that by self-medicating in any way, be it alcohol, substances, food, or behaviors.
(984) 305-3533 View (984) 305-3533
Photo of Sarah Thomas Mariano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Sarah Thomas Mariano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I work from a strengths-based, person-centered appraoch. My goal is to support you in finding skills and talents that can be recognized and built upon through the therapeutic process. I believe that the course of therapy should be individualized, strengths-based and driven by you, the person served. I understand that therapy is not about my agenda but about meeting you where you are, creating space for you to lead the process of healing and growing in a way and at a pace that is meaningful for you.
I work from a strengths-based, person-centered appraoch. My goal is to support you in finding skills and talents that can be recognized and built upon through the therapeutic process. I believe that the course of therapy should be individualized, strengths-based and driven by you, the person served. I understand that therapy is not about my agenda but about meeting you where you are, creating space for you to lead the process of healing and growing in a way and at a pace that is meaningful for you.
(919) 635-1842 View (919) 635-1842
Photo of Matt Morano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Apex, NC
Matt Morano
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Now accepting new clients! Sometimes life doesn't go as expected. When you need help with some of those challenges, it can be helpful to talk to someone like me. Trained in a unique combination of traditional counseling therapy and hypnotherapy, I am happy to help you get through some of life's big (and small) challenges. If you are looking to address some old habits (like smoking or vaping) or even some new ones, my goal is to help you achieve your goals.
Now accepting new clients! Sometimes life doesn't go as expected. When you need help with some of those challenges, it can be helpful to talk to someone like me. Trained in a unique combination of traditional counseling therapy and hypnotherapy, I am happy to help you get through some of life's big (and small) challenges. If you are looking to address some old habits (like smoking or vaping) or even some new ones, my goal is to help you achieve your goals.
(919) 752-3234 View (919) 752-3234
Photo of Julia Bernards, Marriage & Family Therapist in Apex, NC
Julia Bernards
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
It can get better. Just getting by in your life or relationships, or feeling like things are overwhelming, unsafe or out of control is worth getting help with. Feeling lost in a life transition is worth getting help with. Finding a way to thrive instead of just survive is worth getting help with. You can have help focusing your efforts on what will actually make a difference, so it can get better. Models I use to understand where you are & how to get where you want to go include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
It can get better. Just getting by in your life or relationships, or feeling like things are overwhelming, unsafe or out of control is worth getting help with. Feeling lost in a life transition is worth getting help with. Finding a way to thrive instead of just survive is worth getting help with. You can have help focusing your efforts on what will actually make a difference, so it can get better. Models I use to understand where you are & how to get where you want to go include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
(919) 705-0057 View (919) 705-0057

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Apex, NC

300+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Apex, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
75% Coping Skills
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Apex, NC see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Apex?

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.