Therapists in Bloomfield, CT

Photo of Cheryl L Anderson-Coleman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl L Anderson-Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The ideal client is the one who is ready to give themselves the number #1 priority spot and is open to growth and change.
The ideal client is the one who is ready to give themselves the number #1 priority spot and is open to growth and change.
(860) 453-6744 View (860) 453-6744
Photo of T' Keyah B. Dailey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T' Keyah B. Dailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
The majority of clients I’ve serve are often facing significant life challenges or transitions and are seeking guidance and support to overcome them. They may have experienced trauma, divorce, parenting, work-related stressors, and unhealthy family dynamics that have impacted their ability to be present and gain the momentum to see how they can possibly make it to the other side of these obstacles.
The majority of clients I’ve serve are often facing significant life challenges or transitions and are seeking guidance and support to overcome them. They may have experienced trauma, divorce, parenting, work-related stressors, and unhealthy family dynamics that have impacted their ability to be present and gain the momentum to see how they can possibly make it to the other side of these obstacles.
(860) 419-1243 View (860) 419-1243
Photo of Jeremiah Karanja, MEd, CAGS, EdD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeremiah Karanja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CAGS, EdD
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
I am a Licensed professional counselor with more than twenty years of experience in the field of counseling. My goal as a clinician is to help individuals and familes deal with their struggles, working with them to build appropriate skills as necessary and harness strategies to effectively deal with them. In addition to being a professional, I am also a Christian therapist who values an individual's faith values. Faith can be an important component in therapy and when appropriate, I provide counseling from a Christian/ biblical world view too.
I am a Licensed professional counselor with more than twenty years of experience in the field of counseling. My goal as a clinician is to help individuals and familes deal with their struggles, working with them to build appropriate skills as necessary and harness strategies to effectively deal with them. In addition to being a professional, I am also a Christian therapist who values an individual's faith values. Faith can be an important component in therapy and when appropriate, I provide counseling from a Christian/ biblical world view too.
(860) 969-2106 View (860) 969-2106
Photo of Lisa Miller, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Master Social Worker on a mission to bring positive vibes and well-being into your life. My journey in the mental health realm has been quite the adventure, filled with all sorts of experiences that have taught me the power of empathy and lending a caring hand when things get tough. I've been dedicating my time to helping individuals on their path to recovery and personal growth for a good part of my career. This has really solidified my grasp on the ins and outs of mental health and shown me just how crucial it is to tailor my approach to fit your unique needs.
I'm a Licensed Master Social Worker on a mission to bring positive vibes and well-being into your life. My journey in the mental health realm has been quite the adventure, filled with all sorts of experiences that have taught me the power of empathy and lending a caring hand when things get tough. I've been dedicating my time to helping individuals on their path to recovery and personal growth for a good part of my career. This has really solidified my grasp on the ins and outs of mental health and shown me just how crucial it is to tailor my approach to fit your unique needs.
(860) 909-8453 View (860) 909-8453
Photo of Claudia Madrid, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Madrid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm Claudia Madrid, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a passion for supporting individuals and families on their journey towards healing and personal growth. With over 15 years of dedicated experience, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, including Veterans, children with special needs, those within the foster care system, and couples facing various challenges. I particularly enjoy working with school-age (elementary/middle school) students and young adults.
Hello and welcome! I'm Claudia Madrid, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a passion for supporting individuals and families on their journey towards healing and personal growth. With over 15 years of dedicated experience, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, including Veterans, children with special needs, those within the foster care system, and couples facing various challenges. I particularly enjoy working with school-age (elementary/middle school) students and young adults.
(860) 773-4367 View (860) 773-4367
Photo of Chrisann Johnson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrisann Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Throughout life, we experience moments of overwhelming and undesirable emotions. We tend to put on a brave face, not wanting to burden others and because of that we are left to deal with all these emotions on our own. I'm here to meet you exactly where you are on your therapeutic journey by providing you with a safe space to be vulnerable as navigate through your life challenges.
Throughout life, we experience moments of overwhelming and undesirable emotions. We tend to put on a brave face, not wanting to burden others and because of that we are left to deal with all these emotions on our own. I'm here to meet you exactly where you are on your therapeutic journey by providing you with a safe space to be vulnerable as navigate through your life challenges.
(860) 905-4776 View (860) 905-4776
Photo of Julia C Ruggiero - Adoptions From The Heart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adoptions From The Heart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
Adoption-competent therapy is a specialized form of therapy tailored to the specific needs of individuals and families impacted by adoption. The goal is to provide a supportive and understanding environment to explore and process unique experiences, develop coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and ultimately thrive. Identity exploration, attachment, grief and loss, relationship dynamics, search and reunion, and navigating open adoption relationships effectively are some of the common focal points of adoption-competent therapy.
Adoption-competent therapy is a specialized form of therapy tailored to the specific needs of individuals and families impacted by adoption. The goal is to provide a supportive and understanding environment to explore and process unique experiences, develop coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and ultimately thrive. Identity exploration, attachment, grief and loss, relationship dynamics, search and reunion, and navigating open adoption relationships effectively are some of the common focal points of adoption-competent therapy.
(860) 512-9460 View (860) 512-9460
Photo of Rashad Williams, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rashad Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
If you are a parent, you know it is a unique, beautiful, but very stressful experience. Parents, families, and their kids may all find themselves in need of guidance to work through parenting concerns, relationship dynamics, school & life stressors and so much more. After experiencing a crime, your sense of peace and safety may feel robbed, and asking for help seems impossible. As a juvenile or adult offender, it can be hard to find support transitioning back into the real world. No matter the situation, when you need help, life can feel like you're trying to fill a water pitcher with a hole in it. You don't need to feel like this.
If you are a parent, you know it is a unique, beautiful, but very stressful experience. Parents, families, and their kids may all find themselves in need of guidance to work through parenting concerns, relationship dynamics, school & life stressors and so much more. After experiencing a crime, your sense of peace and safety may feel robbed, and asking for help seems impossible. As a juvenile or adult offender, it can be hard to find support transitioning back into the real world. No matter the situation, when you need help, life can feel like you're trying to fill a water pitcher with a hole in it. You don't need to feel like this.
(860) 831-3876 View (860) 831-3876
Photo of Danielle W Turner - Inner You Clinical Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner You Clinical Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Feeling overwhelmed, low and drained? Doing your best to hold it together but at night all you feel is pain, fear and uncertainty? Second guessing yourself and your decisions? Your self-esteem and self-worth have taken a fall? Are you ready to find the inner you and heal your trauma's. At Inner You Clinical Services we help those who are stressed, frustrated and overwhelmed find their inner self and heal. We work to develop the skills you need to live a life of ease and flow. Call us today to begin your healing journey with one of our highly trained therapists.
Feeling overwhelmed, low and drained? Doing your best to hold it together but at night all you feel is pain, fear and uncertainty? Second guessing yourself and your decisions? Your self-esteem and self-worth have taken a fall? Are you ready to find the inner you and heal your trauma's. At Inner You Clinical Services we help those who are stressed, frustrated and overwhelmed find their inner self and heal. We work to develop the skills you need to live a life of ease and flow. Call us today to begin your healing journey with one of our highly trained therapists.
(959) 230-0831 View (959) 230-0831
Photo of Ashley C Smith - New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC (Ashley S.), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC (Ashley S.)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Find yourself constantly stuck in the past? Thinking about beginning your healing journey? Struggling with motherhood? Are you having difficulty coping with challenges and/or losses in your life? Do you have difficulties with communicating with others, setting boundaries, and/or maintaining healthy relationships? I would love to have the opportunity to create a safe space where we can collaboratively work together to assist you with achieving your goals and reaching your full potential – becoming the BEST version of yourself.
Find yourself constantly stuck in the past? Thinking about beginning your healing journey? Struggling with motherhood? Are you having difficulty coping with challenges and/or losses in your life? Do you have difficulties with communicating with others, setting boundaries, and/or maintaining healthy relationships? I would love to have the opportunity to create a safe space where we can collaboratively work together to assist you with achieving your goals and reaching your full potential – becoming the BEST version of yourself.
(860) 750-8972 View (860) 750-8972
Photo of Natalie N Greenfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie N Greenfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Hi, my name is Natalie Greenfield. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. I have experience working in a variety of settings with many populations including severe mental health, women's issues, and trauma. In my private practice, I enjoy working with clients presenting with issues of anger management, anxiety, depression, family conflicts, harm-reduction, relationship issues, stress management, and trauma. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, patient-centered, problem solving, and trauma informed care.
Hi, my name is Natalie Greenfield. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. I have experience working in a variety of settings with many populations including severe mental health, women's issues, and trauma. In my private practice, I enjoy working with clients presenting with issues of anger management, anxiety, depression, family conflicts, harm-reduction, relationship issues, stress management, and trauma. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, patient-centered, problem solving, and trauma informed care.
(959) 777-5147 View (959) 777-5147
Photo of Marilyn Yvonne Carey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn Yvonne Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Not accepting new clients
Note: I am not accepting clients. My mission is to inspire and support the development of people and their relationships. As a therapist, I promote growth in individuals, couples and families, helping clients with life transitions and/or emotional healing. Many of the common growing pains we encounter as humans, include stage of life issues, such as, major career changes, relational conflict, child rearing, empty nest, elder care, financial hardship, illness, and grief. My advanced marriage & family therapy education and breadth of life experience enable me to help my clients gain new perspectives on their challenges.
Note: I am not accepting clients. My mission is to inspire and support the development of people and their relationships. As a therapist, I promote growth in individuals, couples and families, helping clients with life transitions and/or emotional healing. Many of the common growing pains we encounter as humans, include stage of life issues, such as, major career changes, relational conflict, child rearing, empty nest, elder care, financial hardship, illness, and grief. My advanced marriage & family therapy education and breadth of life experience enable me to help my clients gain new perspectives on their challenges.
(959) 500-6144 View (959) 500-6144
Photo of Christina N Forrester - New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Hey Sis, the transition to womanhood and motherhood can be filled with many emotions, thoughts and behaviors, some of which can be distressing at times. Having a safe space to process your experiences during this time in your life can be beneficial. With the appropriate supports, skills and trust in yourself, healing is possible.
Hey Sis, the transition to womanhood and motherhood can be filled with many emotions, thoughts and behaviors, some of which can be distressing at times. Having a safe space to process your experiences during this time in your life can be beneficial. With the appropriate supports, skills and trust in yourself, healing is possible.
(860) 831-3920 View (860) 831-3920
Photo of Lillian Nunez, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lillian Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’ve lost yourself in the chaos of life? I know how exhausting it can be when stress, anxiety, or emotional pain builds up, leaving you feeling disconnected from who you truly are. My approach focuses on creating a safe, nurturing space where you can unpack what’s weighing you down. I combine proven therapeutic techniques with genuine empathy to help you gain clarity and feel more in control. This is a collaborative journey tailored to your unique challenges so you can regain your confidence, find balance, and move forward with renewed strength.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’ve lost yourself in the chaos of life? I know how exhausting it can be when stress, anxiety, or emotional pain builds up, leaving you feeling disconnected from who you truly are. My approach focuses on creating a safe, nurturing space where you can unpack what’s weighing you down. I combine proven therapeutic techniques with genuine empathy to help you gain clarity and feel more in control. This is a collaborative journey tailored to your unique challenges so you can regain your confidence, find balance, and move forward with renewed strength.
(860) 590-8106 x5 View (860) 590-8106 x5
Photo of Bianca Carter - New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC (Bianca C.), LCSW, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC (Bianca C.)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CLC
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
You never know what it's like until you experience it. You can read all the books, watch all the videos, and seek all the advice that you can find; it will never fully prepare you for the journey of motherhood or expectations of being a woman. Entering adulthood is one of the purest forms of transformation one can go through. For example, some journeys to motherhood are easier than others, and unfortunately, some journeys to motherhood are never obtained. Everyone experiences a period of adjustment in their own way. It’s hard juggling responsibilities while including yourself in the equation.
You never know what it's like until you experience it. You can read all the books, watch all the videos, and seek all the advice that you can find; it will never fully prepare you for the journey of motherhood or expectations of being a woman. Entering adulthood is one of the purest forms of transformation one can go through. For example, some journeys to motherhood are easier than others, and unfortunately, some journeys to motherhood are never obtained. Everyone experiences a period of adjustment in their own way. It’s hard juggling responsibilities while including yourself in the equation.
(860) 390-5046 View (860) 390-5046
Photo of Amani Shirley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amani Shirley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
My name is Amani Shirley. I was born and raised in Hartford, CT. I earned a bachelor's degree in Legal Studies and minors in Psychology and Criminal Justice and Paralegal Certificate from Bay Path University. I hold an MSW from UCONN School of Social Work. I enjoy helping others and teaching individuals skills to be self-sufficient.
My name is Amani Shirley. I was born and raised in Hartford, CT. I earned a bachelor's degree in Legal Studies and minors in Psychology and Criminal Justice and Paralegal Certificate from Bay Path University. I hold an MSW from UCONN School of Social Work. I enjoy helping others and teaching individuals skills to be self-sufficient.
(860) 321-8186 View (860) 321-8186
Photo of Jill Lambert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Are you a new mom feeling like you're having a hard time adjusting to pregnancy or the thought of motherhood? Are you having difficulties finding balance while also feeling like you're enjoying being a mom? Maybe you're finding yourself struggling with finding happiness in the relationships around you? Many women struggle in silence for fear of being shamed or made to feel guilty for their difficulties. You are not alone; I can help. Through specialized training, we will work together to improve your ability to feel well again, find joy in your relationships, and to manage the ups and downs of motherhood.
Are you a new mom feeling like you're having a hard time adjusting to pregnancy or the thought of motherhood? Are you having difficulties finding balance while also feeling like you're enjoying being a mom? Maybe you're finding yourself struggling with finding happiness in the relationships around you? Many women struggle in silence for fear of being shamed or made to feel guilty for their difficulties. You are not alone; I can help. Through specialized training, we will work together to improve your ability to feel well again, find joy in your relationships, and to manage the ups and downs of motherhood.
(860) 452-0408 View (860) 452-0408
Photo of Chakie Whitfield - New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
I understand how challenging it can be to ask for help during a difficult time. The world can feel isolating when you're facing transitional periods. Transitions in motherhood, parenting, jobs, relationships in general, and yourself. Sometimes you may feel like your own worse enemy. It takes courage and vulnerability to reach out and ask for help. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.
I understand how challenging it can be to ask for help during a difficult time. The world can feel isolating when you're facing transitional periods. Transitions in motherhood, parenting, jobs, relationships in general, and yourself. Sometimes you may feel like your own worse enemy. It takes courage and vulnerability to reach out and ask for help. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.
(860) 468-4617 View (860) 468-4617
Photo of Sonya Taylor, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonya Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
If you are experiencing emotional and mental challenges, having a safe space to explore these challenges can create a better understanding of why these challenges exist, provide clarity and learn healthy coping strategies to live a happier life and more fulfilled life. I factor a clients' individuality since I am not the expert of their life experiences. My job is to help you find the strength and courage to address emotional and mental challenges.
If you are experiencing emotional and mental challenges, having a safe space to explore these challenges can create a better understanding of why these challenges exist, provide clarity and learn healthy coping strategies to live a happier life and more fulfilled life. I factor a clients' individuality since I am not the expert of their life experiences. My job is to help you find the strength and courage to address emotional and mental challenges.
(860) 746-2727 View (860) 746-2727
Photo of Lynn Mahoney, Esq, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn Mahoney
Marriage & Family Therapist, Esq, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
I use mindfulness & Internal Family Systems therapy to help clients resolve their underlying trauma and grief issues that get in the way of having fulfilling lives and relationships. I combine warmth and compassionate listening with teaching clients skills to learn to better manage their feelings, including anxiety and depression, while using breathing, body-centered, and other spiritual principles to help clients heal. Clients will learn to heal themselves and build more satisfying relationships and futures for themselves and their families. The techniques I use apply well to both children and adults to help clients deal with adverse behaviors and addictions.
I use mindfulness & Internal Family Systems therapy to help clients resolve their underlying trauma and grief issues that get in the way of having fulfilling lives and relationships. I combine warmth and compassionate listening with teaching clients skills to learn to better manage their feelings, including anxiety and depression, while using breathing, body-centered, and other spiritual principles to help clients heal. Clients will learn to heal themselves and build more satisfying relationships and futures for themselves and their families. The techniques I use apply well to both children and adults to help clients deal with adverse behaviors and addictions.
(860) 581-4669 View (860) 581-4669

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bloomfield, CT

100+

Average cost per session

$147

Therapists in Bloomfield, CT who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
94% Depression
84% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
72% Stress
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% HUSKY Health
77% Cigna and Evernorth
70% Aetna

How Therapists in Bloomfield, CT see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

93% Female
7% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bloomfield?

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.