Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Eileen Nicole Quinn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Eileen Nicole Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Licensed therapist and addiction specialist with 12 years experience in behavioral health care and mental health treatment. My background in Clinical Psychology allows me to incorporate psychological testing, eating disorder/body image research, and evidence-based practices into treatment. Through ongoing education and training, I am able to address a variety of issues including low self-esteem, disordered eating, ADHD and impulsivity, co-occurring mood and substance related disorders, and anxiety disorders (OCD, specific phobias, & panic).
Licensed therapist and addiction specialist with 12 years experience in behavioral health care and mental health treatment. My background in Clinical Psychology allows me to incorporate psychological testing, eating disorder/body image research, and evidence-based practices into treatment. Through ongoing education and training, I am able to address a variety of issues including low self-esteem, disordered eating, ADHD and impulsivity, co-occurring mood and substance related disorders, and anxiety disorders (OCD, specific phobias, & panic).
(469) 587-6852 View (469) 587-6852
Photo of Amber Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Amber Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
On the outside you look like you have it “all together” but deep down you are struggling. The pressure of trying to do it all paired with your high expectations for yourself are beating you down. You are realizing you have lost touch with yourself. You know you need to set better boundaries and start prioritizing yourself, but in the past when you have tried it didn't work out and your old patterns eventually resurfaced. You know things can’t keep going on like this. You want to feel happy and confident.
On the outside you look like you have it “all together” but deep down you are struggling. The pressure of trying to do it all paired with your high expectations for yourself are beating you down. You are realizing you have lost touch with yourself. You know you need to set better boundaries and start prioritizing yourself, but in the past when you have tried it didn't work out and your old patterns eventually resurfaced. You know things can’t keep going on like this. You want to feel happy and confident.
(469) 457-2263 View (469) 457-2263
Photo of Donna P. Xu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Donna P. Xu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I hold a masters in science in psychology with the specialty of marriage, individual, and family therapy. I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I hold a masters in science in psychology with the specialty of marriage, individual, and family therapy. I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(979) 399-5929 View (979) 399-5929
Photo of Sunyeo (Sarah) Park, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sunyeo (Sarah) Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
You are a wonder! You are amazingly created . There are talents and strengths hidden in you and waiting to be utilized by you! You might not see them with your own eyes. You might be too weary and burdened to find and use them. Whatever you are going through now, there is hope and light for you! I'd love to work with you to reveal the genuine you who can handle obstacles and challenges. You and your story will be respected, deeply listened , and understood. You will be empowered and strengthened to be able to do what you want to do, and what you need to do to create a meaningful, fruitful, and satisfying life.
You are a wonder! You are amazingly created . There are talents and strengths hidden in you and waiting to be utilized by you! You might not see them with your own eyes. You might be too weary and burdened to find and use them. Whatever you are going through now, there is hope and light for you! I'd love to work with you to reveal the genuine you who can handle obstacles and challenges. You and your story will be respected, deeply listened , and understood. You will be empowered and strengthened to be able to do what you want to do, and what you need to do to create a meaningful, fruitful, and satisfying life.
(469) 617-2046 View (469) 617-2046
Photo of Natalie Benedetto, Psychologist in Plano, TX
Natalie Benedetto
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Many, if not all, of us experience periods of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and burdened by life's demands, responsibilities, and even positive events like beginning a new job or getting married. You don't have to go through hard times alone, and while I always encourage people to reach out to friends and family for support, sometimes their advice and cheerleading is not enough. Therapy can help you through these hard times. Successful therapy allows you to live a more fulfilling life, accomplish your goals, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
Many, if not all, of us experience periods of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and burdened by life's demands, responsibilities, and even positive events like beginning a new job or getting married. You don't have to go through hard times alone, and while I always encourage people to reach out to friends and family for support, sometimes their advice and cheerleading is not enough. Therapy can help you through these hard times. Successful therapy allows you to live a more fulfilling life, accomplish your goals, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
(469) 986-5595 View (469) 986-5595
Photo of Qian 'Mimi' Desmarais, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Qian 'Mimi' Desmarais
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
Thank you for your visit! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I specialize in play therapy and EMDR trauma counseling. With a set of skills, a sense of humor, and a genuine heart to help, I aim to help achieve your optimal emotional state and self-exploration in a safe environment. I will assist you or your child to instill hope, learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and have a newfound perspective on the path of healing.
Thank you for your visit! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I specialize in play therapy and EMDR trauma counseling. With a set of skills, a sense of humor, and a genuine heart to help, I aim to help achieve your optimal emotional state and self-exploration in a safe environment. I will assist you or your child to instill hope, learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and have a newfound perspective on the path of healing.
(940) 220-3854 View (940) 220-3854
Photo of Deanna Herrmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Deanna Herrmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025  (Online Only)
As a mother, you may often struggle to keep up with the demands of daily life, while trying to maintain a facade of happiness and contentment. However, the constant pressure and overwhelming anxiety can leave you feeling isolated and alone, with feelings of guilt and shame. But you don't have to suffer in silence anymore. You have taken the first step towards a brighter future by acknowledging the need for guidance and support to improve your mental health. You understand that taking care of yourself is crucial to take care of others. I am here to support you every step of the way towards a happier, healthier you.
As a mother, you may often struggle to keep up with the demands of daily life, while trying to maintain a facade of happiness and contentment. However, the constant pressure and overwhelming anxiety can leave you feeling isolated and alone, with feelings of guilt and shame. But you don't have to suffer in silence anymore. You have taken the first step towards a brighter future by acknowledging the need for guidance and support to improve your mental health. You understand that taking care of yourself is crucial to take care of others. I am here to support you every step of the way towards a happier, healthier you.
(469) 871-6367 View (469) 871-6367
Photo of David Hansen, Licensed Master Social Worker in Plano, TX
David Hansen
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
My approach to therapy is to meet clients where they are at, listen to their concerns, and make specific therapeutic goals to accomplish. I excel at creating safe spaces for people to talk and explore themselves. I am a secular, spiritual therapist. I love to help people find their potential and understand themselves through intentional, actionable steps. If a client says, “I want to love myself,” that is followed by real discussion about how that works and goal setting for how it can be accomplished.
My approach to therapy is to meet clients where they are at, listen to their concerns, and make specific therapeutic goals to accomplish. I excel at creating safe spaces for people to talk and explore themselves. I am a secular, spiritual therapist. I love to help people find their potential and understand themselves through intentional, actionable steps. If a client says, “I want to love myself,” that is followed by real discussion about how that works and goal setting for how it can be accomplished.
(972) 833-0775 View (972) 833-0775
Photo of Tonya Willis, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Tonya Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
It is not uncommon to feel like life is unraveling at the seams; it has a way of making you feel lonely, lost, uncertain and trapped at times. You deserve the best support possible.
It is not uncommon to feel like life is unraveling at the seams; it has a way of making you feel lonely, lost, uncertain and trapped at times. You deserve the best support possible.
(214) 643-8406 View (214) 643-8406
Photo of Kathy Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Kathy Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
If you are facing challenges you never envisioned and want a safe place to talk with practical feedback, encouragement and hope, please call me. I see people who are dealing with problems and stress in a lot of areas- work, family, relationships, decisions, health. Some have tried substances for relief and now they have new problems. Others are in their 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's and navigating major life changes, loneliness, illness, a change in roles, loss, excruciating grief. Many are looking for a safe place to talk and are relieved to find someone who understands and who has even survived some of what they are living through.
If you are facing challenges you never envisioned and want a safe place to talk with practical feedback, encouragement and hope, please call me. I see people who are dealing with problems and stress in a lot of areas- work, family, relationships, decisions, health. Some have tried substances for relief and now they have new problems. Others are in their 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's and navigating major life changes, loneliness, illness, a change in roles, loss, excruciating grief. Many are looking for a safe place to talk and are relieved to find someone who understands and who has even survived some of what they are living through.
(214) 225-4865 View (214) 225-4865
Photo of Natalie Morse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Natalie Morse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Seeking counseling takes courage. I recognize that it is not easy to discuss difficult and painful feelings, experiences, and memories. Choosing counseling is the first step in choosing change and growth. I believes every person has the inner strength and resiliency to find healing and peace. I will be there to create a safe and supportive space for you to process and explore. I will also work alongside you to help you set achievable goals. In counseling, you will learn helpful coping strategies to handle distressing situations and tolerate difficult feelings.
Seeking counseling takes courage. I recognize that it is not easy to discuss difficult and painful feelings, experiences, and memories. Choosing counseling is the first step in choosing change and growth. I believes every person has the inner strength and resiliency to find healing and peace. I will be there to create a safe and supportive space for you to process and explore. I will also work alongside you to help you set achievable goals. In counseling, you will learn helpful coping strategies to handle distressing situations and tolerate difficult feelings.
(972) 630-4282 View (972) 630-4282
Photo of Kathy Point, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Kathy Point
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I enjoy working alongside couples, helping them navigate challenging life transitions together. With a welcoming and supportive personality, I strive to create an environment where you can feel at ease in my presence. Building a trust-based relationship is paramount to me, and I am committed to earning your trust through our therapeutic journey together. My goal is to empower you with healthy coping strategies and boost your confidence in working through difficult situations.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I enjoy working alongside couples, helping them navigate challenging life transitions together. With a welcoming and supportive personality, I strive to create an environment where you can feel at ease in my presence. Building a trust-based relationship is paramount to me, and I am committed to earning your trust through our therapeutic journey together. My goal is to empower you with healthy coping strategies and boost your confidence in working through difficult situations.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Norma Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Norma Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
Norma is a passionate counselor who seeks to meet her clients where they are. It's important for Norma her clients feel safe and heard during a session. Norma prefers to work with clients in a collaborative effort and with open communication.
Norma is a passionate counselor who seeks to meet her clients where they are. It's important for Norma her clients feel safe and heard during a session. Norma prefers to work with clients in a collaborative effort and with open communication.
(972) 309-9382 View (972) 309-9382
Photo of Tamara Ljubisic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Tamara Ljubisic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
My belief around therapy is to focus on what you want to accomplish, drawing from strengths you already possess. My style tends to be more active and interactive. Often individuals and couples face an impasse & may realize they might not have the tools to move forward. For some, it may be an ongoing concern like managing anxiety/depression, enhancing communication, healing from 'the past'. For some, there is an experience or event that is prohibiting forward movement.
My belief around therapy is to focus on what you want to accomplish, drawing from strengths you already possess. My style tends to be more active and interactive. Often individuals and couples face an impasse & may realize they might not have the tools to move forward. For some, it may be an ongoing concern like managing anxiety/depression, enhancing communication, healing from 'the past'. For some, there is an experience or event that is prohibiting forward movement.
(214) 935-3922 View (214) 935-3922
Photo of Sara E. Aguilar, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Sara E. Aguilar
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, M Ed, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Are you feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply longing for a deeper understanding of yourself and your life's path? Look no further! I am here to guide you through a transformative process tailored specifically to your unique needs and aspirations. Through compassionate listening, insightful questioning, and evidence-based techniques, I will help you uncover your innermost desires, fears, and potential. Whether you're facing challenges, seeking clarity, or simply yearning for personal growth, I can provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore, heal, and thrive.
Are you feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply longing for a deeper understanding of yourself and your life's path? Look no further! I am here to guide you through a transformative process tailored specifically to your unique needs and aspirations. Through compassionate listening, insightful questioning, and evidence-based techniques, I will help you uncover your innermost desires, fears, and potential. Whether you're facing challenges, seeking clarity, or simply yearning for personal growth, I can provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore, heal, and thrive.
(972) 236-5696 View (972) 236-5696
Photo of Amie McNamara, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Amie McNamara
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Therapy is an intensely personal process which can be both exquisitely liberating and excruciatingly difficult. To honor this, I focus on developing a strong relationship with you characterized by compassion and a suspension of judgments. No topic is off-limits in my office; nothing is "unspeakable" or "unthinkable." What I ask of my clients is to be honest and searching. I will never coerce you into divulging something before you are ready, but I may encourage you to examine the deeper meanings behind interactions that have been troubling you. Together we will uncover truths and sort through whatever may rise up.
Therapy is an intensely personal process which can be both exquisitely liberating and excruciatingly difficult. To honor this, I focus on developing a strong relationship with you characterized by compassion and a suspension of judgments. No topic is off-limits in my office; nothing is "unspeakable" or "unthinkable." What I ask of my clients is to be honest and searching. I will never coerce you into divulging something before you are ready, but I may encourage you to examine the deeper meanings behind interactions that have been troubling you. Together we will uncover truths and sort through whatever may rise up.
(214) 382-9587 View (214) 382-9587
Photo of Canitra Reed, LPC-Associate in Plano, TX
Canitra Reed
LPC-Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping others and walking alongside individuals in the healing process. I believe very strongly that we all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, especially when seeking help.
I have a passion for helping others and walking alongside individuals in the healing process. I believe very strongly that we all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, especially when seeking help.
(214) 609-1859 View (214) 609-1859
Photo of Ashlyne Kukreja, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ashlyne Kukreja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Hi there! I know finding the right counselor can be stressful and my goal is to meet you wherever you are on your mental health journey. In my practice, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change. I also love that having fun and exploring new things together in the therapy space is totally encouraged! I understand that every individual is unique, and their experiences, challenges, and aspirations are equally distinct so we will work together to make sure you are getting what you need from your time in counseling. I want to empower you to be your most authentic self during our work together.
Hi there! I know finding the right counselor can be stressful and my goal is to meet you wherever you are on your mental health journey. In my practice, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change. I also love that having fun and exploring new things together in the therapy space is totally encouraged! I understand that every individual is unique, and their experiences, challenges, and aspirations are equally distinct so we will work together to make sure you are getting what you need from your time in counseling. I want to empower you to be your most authentic self during our work together.
(214) 761-3949 View (214) 761-3949
Photo of Bianca Javery, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Plano, TX
Bianca Javery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Our past experiences often influence how we interact with our partners today. I work with couples to address ruptures from the past that were never fully repaired. I strive to create a safe space where curiousity, empathy, and genuine connection are at the forefront of therapy. We will take the time we need to build a sturdy foundation that sets the stage to communicate effectively and authentically. I see it as my role to acknowledge the complexities of your relationship while providing support as you heal and build a stronger bond for the future.
Our past experiences often influence how we interact with our partners today. I work with couples to address ruptures from the past that were never fully repaired. I strive to create a safe space where curiousity, empathy, and genuine connection are at the forefront of therapy. We will take the time we need to build a sturdy foundation that sets the stage to communicate effectively and authentically. I see it as my role to acknowledge the complexities of your relationship while providing support as you heal and build a stronger bond for the future.
(972) 645-2411 View (972) 645-2411
Photo of Dr. Cassie Hubble At Spero Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Dr. Cassie Hubble At Spero Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Are you struggling with balancing life? Feel like you are dropping balls? Want to feel more peace and flexibility? Life presents both challenges and joy, often leaving us juggling various roles and responsibilities. Balancing career and family, or navigating the transition into parenthood amidst an already busy life, can be incredibly stressful. However, it's possible to find equilibrium and fulfillment in these circumstances. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals discover joy and purpose in their lives, guiding them towards a place where they feel confident in wearing many hats.
Are you struggling with balancing life? Feel like you are dropping balls? Want to feel more peace and flexibility? Life presents both challenges and joy, often leaving us juggling various roles and responsibilities. Balancing career and family, or navigating the transition into parenthood amidst an already busy life, can be incredibly stressful. However, it's possible to find equilibrium and fulfillment in these circumstances. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals discover joy and purpose in their lives, guiding them towards a place where they feel confident in wearing many hats.
(940) 765-9029 View (940) 765-9029

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plano, TX

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Plano, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Plano, TX see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plano?

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.