Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of True Whiting, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
True Whiting
Psychologist, Artist, RYT250
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Psychotherapy is an opportunity for you to be deeply listened to in an environment of acceptance and respect. My approach is founded in western psychology layered with the wisdom and practices of yoga, shamanism and Intentional Creativity. A typical therapy session will feel like a very intentional conversation rooted in inquiry, the purpose of which is to support you to move past brain/mind, the terrain that you already know, into a deeper space of insight and intuition. Through our work you will move more deeply into the fullness of your being and experience vitality and connection with life and love.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity for you to be deeply listened to in an environment of acceptance and respect. My approach is founded in western psychology layered with the wisdom and practices of yoga, shamanism and Intentional Creativity. A typical therapy session will feel like a very intentional conversation rooted in inquiry, the purpose of which is to support you to move past brain/mind, the terrain that you already know, into a deeper space of insight and intuition. Through our work you will move more deeply into the fullness of your being and experience vitality and connection with life and love.
(336) 645-9687 View (336) 645-9687
Photo of Lisha Mejan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Lisha Mejan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We talk a lot about what's on our minds, the work our brains are doing, and the moving body as separate parts. But, they are all one unit working together, for better of for worse. Trauma is a good example of these parts working together as one. Our nervous system connects the body/brain/mind and can get stuck working too hard trying to keep us safe. Brainspotting via the eyes, connects with our sub-cortical brains to release trauma held in our whole selves. It gets to the things talking can't get to and reduces unwanted trauma responses. Curious? Come give it a try.
We talk a lot about what's on our minds, the work our brains are doing, and the moving body as separate parts. But, they are all one unit working together, for better of for worse. Trauma is a good example of these parts working together as one. Our nervous system connects the body/brain/mind and can get stuck working too hard trying to keep us safe. Brainspotting via the eyes, connects with our sub-cortical brains to release trauma held in our whole selves. It gets to the things talking can't get to and reduces unwanted trauma responses. Curious? Come give it a try.
(336) 750-6240 View (336) 750-6240
Photo of Patricia L Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Patricia L Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I believe therapy can be essential for anyone seeking to improve their mental well being. Each of us have experienced our own difficulties, though they may be different, struggle is universal. It is my desire to provide a safe, unbiased, and welcoming space for you to grow to the person you want to be. In therapy I will be there to provide a listening ear and give feedback to assist you in your journey. During this time we will work as a team navigating the ups and downs together.
I believe therapy can be essential for anyone seeking to improve their mental well being. Each of us have experienced our own difficulties, though they may be different, struggle is universal. It is my desire to provide a safe, unbiased, and welcoming space for you to grow to the person you want to be. In therapy I will be there to provide a listening ear and give feedback to assist you in your journey. During this time we will work as a team navigating the ups and downs together.
(336) 518-9915 View (336) 518-9915
Photo of Diana Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Diana Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
Although I work with a wide range of clients, my primary specialties are in treating anxiety and depression. I work with adults of all ages who are unhappy with their day-to-day quality of life. Perhaps you want to figure out how to improve your mood, learn coping strategies, and make changes for the better. I believe everyone has the right and the capacity for a full and vibrant life, and I would love to support you on your journey. My goal is to be on your team and to work with you; therapy is a collaborative process.
Although I work with a wide range of clients, my primary specialties are in treating anxiety and depression. I work with adults of all ages who are unhappy with their day-to-day quality of life. Perhaps you want to figure out how to improve your mood, learn coping strategies, and make changes for the better. I believe everyone has the right and the capacity for a full and vibrant life, and I would love to support you on your journey. My goal is to be on your team and to work with you; therapy is a collaborative process.
(336) 360-8632 View (336) 360-8632
Photo of Heartspath Counseling and Wellness, PLLC, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Heartspath Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
When life becomes difficult, either with long-standing challenges or those that just recently have surfaced, it can be scary and frustrating to know where to start in seeking help. I admire you for taking that first step in seeking out someone that can help you move through and make sense of life's challenges. I am eager to help you as you journey in dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief & loss, spirituality, identity development, body-image & self-esteem and relationship conflict.
When life becomes difficult, either with long-standing challenges or those that just recently have surfaced, it can be scary and frustrating to know where to start in seeking help. I admire you for taking that first step in seeking out someone that can help you move through and make sense of life's challenges. I am eager to help you as you journey in dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief & loss, spirituality, identity development, body-image & self-esteem and relationship conflict.
(336) 899-0198 View (336) 899-0198
Photo of Sally Thornton, Psychological Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Sally Thornton
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, RYT 500
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Welcome to Magnolia Center for Counseling and Eating Recovery located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are committed to walking with you on your journey toward your new life. We provide counseling services to assist you in addressing conditions that contribute to the onset, maintenance, and severity of eating disorders and other psychological concerns. Eating disorders addressed through our services include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. We also provide counseling for other mental health and behavioral concerns including emotional/stress eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, body image disturbance, self-esteem, adolescent concerns, and family discord.
Welcome to Magnolia Center for Counseling and Eating Recovery located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are committed to walking with you on your journey toward your new life. We provide counseling services to assist you in addressing conditions that contribute to the onset, maintenance, and severity of eating disorders and other psychological concerns. Eating disorders addressed through our services include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. We also provide counseling for other mental health and behavioral concerns including emotional/stress eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, body image disturbance, self-esteem, adolescent concerns, and family discord.
(336) 814-2601 View (336) 814-2601
Photo of Tanya Gunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tanya Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
(336) 949-6149 View (336) 949-6149
Photo of Edwena Kirby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Edwena Kirby
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Your thoughts are what guide your decisions. Perhaps the strength you used to have has weaken, causing you to doubt or question your ability and/or who you are. Start today, seek a new life for yourself. Imagine what your future can look like. See that together we can create change and healing, allowing you to move beyond pain, sadness, anxiety, and confusion. Accurate assessment and therapeutic approaches, including understanding and professional guidance will help you experience daily peace, love, laughter and happiness. I am fully convinced from a high success rate among those who have sought and received therapeutic counseling and moved forward, experiencing a healthy productive life that you will also.
Your thoughts are what guide your decisions. Perhaps the strength you used to have has weaken, causing you to doubt or question your ability and/or who you are. Start today, seek a new life for yourself. Imagine what your future can look like. See that together we can create change and healing, allowing you to move beyond pain, sadness, anxiety, and confusion. Accurate assessment and therapeutic approaches, including understanding and professional guidance will help you experience daily peace, love, laughter and happiness. I am fully convinced from a high success rate among those who have sought and received therapeutic counseling and moved forward, experiencing a healthy productive life that you will also.
(336) 685-8661 View (336) 685-8661
Photo of Carol Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Carol Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
You may be experiencing anxious worries, feelings of depression, chronic pain, concerns about parenting, stress-eating, conflicts or uncertainty at work or home, or the pain and upheaval of a loss. My commitment is to creating a health-focussed solution to your problems. I provide a calm, compassionate, and thoughtful presence in order to help you achieve a greater sense of peace and acceptance, as well as a greater sense of control over the direction of your life. I welcome phone and email inquiries to answer any questions you may have about my practice and my approach to achieving greater emotional wellness.
You may be experiencing anxious worries, feelings of depression, chronic pain, concerns about parenting, stress-eating, conflicts or uncertainty at work or home, or the pain and upheaval of a loss. My commitment is to creating a health-focussed solution to your problems. I provide a calm, compassionate, and thoughtful presence in order to help you achieve a greater sense of peace and acceptance, as well as a greater sense of control over the direction of your life. I welcome phone and email inquiries to answer any questions you may have about my practice and my approach to achieving greater emotional wellness.
(336) 685-1947 View (336) 685-1947
Photo of Judy Pisarro-Grant, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Judy Pisarro-Grant
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Not accepting new clients
Many people struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety, experience challenges in parenting, family life or relationships, have concerns about self-esteem, or worry about their own or family members’ troubling behaviors. As a highly experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, these are issues that I have helped many people successfully navigate and resolve, and I welcome the opportunity to help new clients do the same. I work with adults and adolescent individuals.
Many people struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety, experience challenges in parenting, family life or relationships, have concerns about self-esteem, or worry about their own or family members’ troubling behaviors. As a highly experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, these are issues that I have helped many people successfully navigate and resolve, and I welcome the opportunity to help new clients do the same. I work with adults and adolescent individuals.
(336) 560-9347 View (336) 560-9347
Photo of Liz Wagner Mecham, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Liz Wagner Mecham
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
We are all not OK all of the time. We struggle. We all struggle, whether with mental illness or adjusting to the concerns of everyday life. Could you benefit from having someone help you sort out those issues? I approach counseling from a Person Centered perspective which means my foundation is in being genuine, regarding each client as valuable and trying to understand their view. With couples I take this foundation and focus on attachment, or our need for emotional bonding.
We are all not OK all of the time. We struggle. We all struggle, whether with mental illness or adjusting to the concerns of everyday life. Could you benefit from having someone help you sort out those issues? I approach counseling from a Person Centered perspective which means my foundation is in being genuine, regarding each client as valuable and trying to understand their view. With couples I take this foundation and focus on attachment, or our need for emotional bonding.
(919) 624-5274 View (919) 624-5274
Photo of Rebecca Crabtree, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Rebecca Crabtree
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I recognize the courage it takes to pursue therapy and am truly honored to come along side you on your journey toward emotional health and well being. I believe in treating each individual with respect, kindness, and compassion. I strive to create a safe environment for you to feel heard. It is my goal to empower each person with the self-awareness and self-confidence necessary to express their voice and advocate for themself.
I recognize the courage it takes to pursue therapy and am truly honored to come along side you on your journey toward emotional health and well being. I believe in treating each individual with respect, kindness, and compassion. I strive to create a safe environment for you to feel heard. It is my goal to empower each person with the self-awareness and self-confidence necessary to express their voice and advocate for themself.
(336) 815-4621 View (336) 815-4621
Photo of Tonjia Kiara Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tonjia Kiara Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
(336) 585-8653 View (336) 585-8653
Photo of Jess Leistikow, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Jess Leistikow
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm Jess, and I am a queer neurodivergent therapist who practices LGBTQIA+ friendly, Autistic and ADHD affirming, and trauma-informed therapy. It's my passion to support folks who are feeling the weight of shame and self-doubt, questioning where they belong/who they are, and struggling in their relationship with food and body. I know how painful it can be to feel out of place and like you're trying to fit into a mold that just doesn't feel right for you, so it's important to me to cultivate a space where you can feel like it's celebrated to be you. In our space, there is no such thing as being "too sensitive" or "too much."
I'm Jess, and I am a queer neurodivergent therapist who practices LGBTQIA+ friendly, Autistic and ADHD affirming, and trauma-informed therapy. It's my passion to support folks who are feeling the weight of shame and self-doubt, questioning where they belong/who they are, and struggling in their relationship with food and body. I know how painful it can be to feel out of place and like you're trying to fit into a mold that just doesn't feel right for you, so it's important to me to cultivate a space where you can feel like it's celebrated to be you. In our space, there is no such thing as being "too sensitive" or "too much."
(336) 920-7159 View (336) 920-7159
Photo of Crossnore Communities for Children in Winston Salem, NC
Crossnore Communities for Children
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Crossnore Communities for Children offers services to outpatient clients utilizing a trauma-informed model of care. We provide each client with a complete clinical assessment to ensure they receive personalized services and the best care for their needs. Our clients work with a therapist in a consistent, structured, and collaborative environment that promotes growth and healing.
Crossnore Communities for Children offers services to outpatient clients utilizing a trauma-informed model of care. We provide each client with a complete clinical assessment to ensure they receive personalized services and the best care for their needs. Our clients work with a therapist in a consistent, structured, and collaborative environment that promotes growth and healing.
(336) 276-0429 View (336) 276-0429
Photo of Taylor Miller, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Taylor Miller
Counselor, LCMHC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I treat clients who have a history of trauma and/or eating concerns. Maybe this resonates with you. Perhaps your trauma manifested in maladaptive behaviors, like cutting, an eating disorder, or risk behaviors. You have lost the ability to tune into your body and need help reconnecting with your body's wisdom. Using mindfulness, EMDR, and other body-based interventions, I can help you process trauma and develop healthy coping skills to replace the ones that cause you pain.
I treat clients who have a history of trauma and/or eating concerns. Maybe this resonates with you. Perhaps your trauma manifested in maladaptive behaviors, like cutting, an eating disorder, or risk behaviors. You have lost the ability to tune into your body and need help reconnecting with your body's wisdom. Using mindfulness, EMDR, and other body-based interventions, I can help you process trauma and develop healthy coping skills to replace the ones that cause you pain.
(336) 281-6760 View (336) 281-6760
Photo of House Call Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
House Call Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
(336) 221-3912 View (336) 221-3912
Photo of Regina Mason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Regina Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
One of my favorite mantras is "I can only get better when I accept myself as I am, where I have been, and where I am going!" I am passionate in my work. One of my main goals is to see you thrive. I want to aid you in your journey to better mental health. My therapeutic style is very laid back, and you will be the driving for in your treatment.
One of my favorite mantras is "I can only get better when I accept myself as I am, where I have been, and where I am going!" I am passionate in my work. One of my main goals is to see you thrive. I want to aid you in your journey to better mental health. My therapeutic style is very laid back, and you will be the driving for in your treatment.
(336) 652-3211 View (336) 652-3211
Photo of Anna Fleig, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Anna Fleig
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CST, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt like you weren’t being heard? That others don’t really understand what you are going through? Or perhaps they do listen, only to give you unsolicited advice in an attempt to be helpful. Perhaps you want focus on problems related to alcohol and substance use, communication skills, or relationship concerns. Maybe your most urgent concern is alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and grief. Or, you may be grappling with overwhelming life questions that either don't make sense or seem to have no answers.
Have you ever felt like you weren’t being heard? That others don’t really understand what you are going through? Or perhaps they do listen, only to give you unsolicited advice in an attempt to be helpful. Perhaps you want focus on problems related to alcohol and substance use, communication skills, or relationship concerns. Maybe your most urgent concern is alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and grief. Or, you may be grappling with overwhelming life questions that either don't make sense or seem to have no answers.
(336) 346-2628 View (336) 346-2628
Photo of Leslie Gura, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Leslie Gura
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Are you stuck with in a narrative you didn't count on? It may be causing emotional or physical pain, weariness and hopelessness. But narratives are only one piece of a person's overall story.
Are you stuck with in a narrative you didn't count on? It may be causing emotional or physical pain, weariness and hopelessness. But narratives are only one piece of a person's overall story.
(336) 281-6703 View (336) 281-6703

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna
48% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.