Therapists in Warrendale, PA

Photo of Bradford James Hanes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Bradford James Hanes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
I am grateful for the opportunity to assist individuals and groups with a variety of needs and desirers. After spending 20 years in the corporate environment, I felt compelled to change myself and assist others with living and enjoying life in a meaningful way. I am blessed to have worked with thousands of different individuals with a multitude of diverse backgrounds, challenges, hardships and goals. If you are willing to be honest, open and willing to consider change, then you are well on your way.
I am grateful for the opportunity to assist individuals and groups with a variety of needs and desirers. After spending 20 years in the corporate environment, I felt compelled to change myself and assist others with living and enjoying life in a meaningful way. I am blessed to have worked with thousands of different individuals with a multitude of diverse backgrounds, challenges, hardships and goals. If you are willing to be honest, open and willing to consider change, then you are well on your way.
(724) 278-8255 View (724) 278-8255
Photo of Maria Elisa Kitay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Maria Elisa Kitay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd
Verified Verified
Warrendale, PA 15086
I will help you to identify your mental health concerns and ways that we can work together to improve your mental health and reduce your stress caused by anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflicts. Change will occur as you build on your strengths and identify areas that you want to change. My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help you solve problems and life's developmental milestones.
I will help you to identify your mental health concerns and ways that we can work together to improve your mental health and reduce your stress caused by anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflicts. Change will occur as you build on your strengths and identify areas that you want to change. My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help you solve problems and life's developmental milestones.
(724) 604-5870 View (724) 604-5870
Photo of Jessica Northcott-Brillati, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrendale, PA
Jessica Northcott-Brillati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
Jess is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned a Master of Social Work degree with a specialization in veteran and military family mental health. Jess’ areas of focus includes perinatal mental health and substance use/addictions. Jess has experience working with adults and adolescents. Jess has also worked with veterans, people who have been involved with the criminal justice system, and individuals who are non monogamous/poly.
Jess is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned a Master of Social Work degree with a specialization in veteran and military family mental health. Jess’ areas of focus includes perinatal mental health and substance use/addictions. Jess has experience working with adults and adolescents. Jess has also worked with veterans, people who have been involved with the criminal justice system, and individuals who are non monogamous/poly.
(724) 577-5459 View (724) 577-5459
Photo of Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrendale, PA
Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrendale, PA 15086
My mission is to help people manage and grow from their problems and life's challenges as well as learning how to become more secure, serene, and free.
My mission is to help people manage and grow from their problems and life's challenges as well as learning how to become more secure, serene, and free.
(878) 208-4636 View (878) 208-4636
Photo of Favored Wellness Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Favored Wellness Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
“We're all just walking each other home.” Ram Dass. As a group psychotherapy private practice, Favored Wellness Counseling & Consulting, LLC offers online and in-person psychotherapy sessions for individuals, couples, and families of all ages. As it's an honor to walk with you on your journey, we aim to help navigate the roller-coasters that life can bring. Scheduling an hour of private, unbiased, time for self-care is highly recommended to maintain balance during these unprecedented times. Consider letting us help you ride the coaster of life as gracefully as possible. You don't have to do it alone.
“We're all just walking each other home.” Ram Dass. As a group psychotherapy private practice, Favored Wellness Counseling & Consulting, LLC offers online and in-person psychotherapy sessions for individuals, couples, and families of all ages. As it's an honor to walk with you on your journey, we aim to help navigate the roller-coasters that life can bring. Scheduling an hour of private, unbiased, time for self-care is highly recommended to maintain balance during these unprecedented times. Consider letting us help you ride the coaster of life as gracefully as possible. You don't have to do it alone.
(412) 339-1782 View (412) 339-1782
Photo of Evan Dean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrendale, PA
Evan Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrendale, PA 15086
Are you feeling like you can't manage your life? Do you want to learn how to reduce risky behaviors? Do you feel out of control of your emotions, thinking, and /or behavior? Do you want to regain your confidence in yourself, at home, and at work? If you are a man or woman in Recovery from substance Abuse, Sex Addiction, or Compulsive Gambling, or you think you may need to get into Recovery, I think I can help. Right now, I'm prioritizing male Recovery clients as my schedule is nearly full.
Are you feeling like you can't manage your life? Do you want to learn how to reduce risky behaviors? Do you feel out of control of your emotions, thinking, and /or behavior? Do you want to regain your confidence in yourself, at home, and at work? If you are a man or woman in Recovery from substance Abuse, Sex Addiction, or Compulsive Gambling, or you think you may need to get into Recovery, I think I can help. Right now, I'm prioritizing male Recovery clients as my schedule is nearly full.
(878) 206-0275 View (878) 206-0275
Photo of Erin LaRue, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Erin LaRue
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
Waitlist for new clients
"Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary" (Fred Rogers). Taking care of your mental health is often the hardest but most valuable work you’ll ever do. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling to express themselves in healthy or effective ways, who have been through painful experiences, or who need to find new ways to cope.
"Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary" (Fred Rogers). Taking care of your mental health is often the hardest but most valuable work you’ll ever do. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling to express themselves in healthy or effective ways, who have been through painful experiences, or who need to find new ways to cope.
(878) 217-8851 View (878) 217-8851
Photo of Danielle Vogan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Danielle Vogan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
"Be the change you wish to see in the world" ~ Mahatma Gandhi. Congratulations on taking a huge first step! Therapeutic change starts with building a relationship. I provide an inviting, relaxed environment where privacy and security are built upon to develop a foundation of trust and safety, paced to fit your needs. I encourage and challenge my clients to discover their inner strengths, resources, and resilience. We work together to apply your strengths to create unique processes and develop steps toward achieving long-term change and increased adaptability.
"Be the change you wish to see in the world" ~ Mahatma Gandhi. Congratulations on taking a huge first step! Therapeutic change starts with building a relationship. I provide an inviting, relaxed environment where privacy and security are built upon to develop a foundation of trust and safety, paced to fit your needs. I encourage and challenge my clients to discover their inner strengths, resources, and resilience. We work together to apply your strengths to create unique processes and develop steps toward achieving long-term change and increased adaptability.
(412) 339-1782 View (412) 339-1782
Photo of Brittany Sanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Brittany Sanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086  (Online Only)
Choosing a therapist that you connect with is often the most important aspect to successful therapy. It can be daunting to find the right fit and scary to expose yourself. To foster our therapeutic relationship, I will strive to create a relaxed space to explore your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and experiences. The core of my relational style is authentic and warm, and I will adapt to your personality and pace, so you feel supported rather than pushed. I seek to assist individuals and couples in achieving deeper, more fulfilled and satisfied relationships and connections with both themselves and the people around them.
Choosing a therapist that you connect with is often the most important aspect to successful therapy. It can be daunting to find the right fit and scary to expose yourself. To foster our therapeutic relationship, I will strive to create a relaxed space to explore your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and experiences. The core of my relational style is authentic and warm, and I will adapt to your personality and pace, so you feel supported rather than pushed. I seek to assist individuals and couples in achieving deeper, more fulfilled and satisfied relationships and connections with both themselves and the people around them.
(412) 214-8984 View (412) 214-8984
Photo of Jennifer Ruttinger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Warrendale, PA
Jennifer Ruttinger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
I am passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. I am committed to forming strong, trusting relationships with clients, believing that the therapeutic alliance is at the heart of treatment. I believe in working together to create meaningful change across all areas: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social.
I am passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. I am committed to forming strong, trusting relationships with clients, believing that the therapeutic alliance is at the heart of treatment. I believe in working together to create meaningful change across all areas: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social.
(412) 318-9368 View (412) 318-9368
Photo of Ariana Wood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Ariana Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
I specialize in adolescent and adult counseling for those coping with trauma, anxiety, parenting stress, cancer treatment or survival of cancer, and adult insecure attachment. I have over 5 years of experience working in human services and received my Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. I believe everyone is shaped by their past, but the past can sometimes come to haunt you. Arriving at a place of peace often involves reprocessing those past painful memories and facing the negative messages that those experiences told you about yourself.
I specialize in adolescent and adult counseling for those coping with trauma, anxiety, parenting stress, cancer treatment or survival of cancer, and adult insecure attachment. I have over 5 years of experience working in human services and received my Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. I believe everyone is shaped by their past, but the past can sometimes come to haunt you. Arriving at a place of peace often involves reprocessing those past painful memories and facing the negative messages that those experiences told you about yourself.
(412) 274-8143 View (412) 274-8143
Photo of Samantha Bohr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Samantha Bohr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
The ‘first step’ is always the hardest… Therapy is the just the beginning towards making positive, meaningful, goal oriented changes in all areas of your life. I provide a safe space to openly discuss the struggles of life, to help identify the changes that need to take place for your own personal growth and support you, while overcoming those challenges of change in your life journey. Using your own goals and individual strengths, together, we will build your resilience and confidence by utilizing coping strategies.
The ‘first step’ is always the hardest… Therapy is the just the beginning towards making positive, meaningful, goal oriented changes in all areas of your life. I provide a safe space to openly discuss the struggles of life, to help identify the changes that need to take place for your own personal growth and support you, while overcoming those challenges of change in your life journey. Using your own goals and individual strengths, together, we will build your resilience and confidence by utilizing coping strategies.
(814) 885-3690 View (814) 885-3690
Photo of Katelyn Jakubovic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Katelyn Jakubovic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The brain is wider than the sky.- Emily Dickinson. Over my time in practice, I have come to learn that much of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors stem from parental figures and relationships, childhood experiences, significant life events, as well as responses to the here and now. My goal is to work collaboratively with you, to support you, and to assist you in attending to what you feel is important through the cultivation of a strength-based, empathetic, and warm environment.
The brain is wider than the sky.- Emily Dickinson. Over my time in practice, I have come to learn that much of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors stem from parental figures and relationships, childhood experiences, significant life events, as well as responses to the here and now. My goal is to work collaboratively with you, to support you, and to assist you in attending to what you feel is important through the cultivation of a strength-based, empathetic, and warm environment.
(412) 899-1042 View (412) 899-1042
Photo of Lisa M Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Lisa M Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support, and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, parenting, maternal health and life transitions.
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support, and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, parenting, maternal health and life transitions.
(412) 538-5982 View (412) 538-5982
Photo of Bryanna Kort, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Bryanna Kort
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
Waitlist for new clients
Hello there! I’m very happy you decided to take the first step in your therapy journey. Believe it or not you already possess the skills and tools you need to lead a better life. I am just here to help you unlock them! Are you struggling from anxiety and/or depression? Having a hard time managing relationships? Can't get past things that have happened in your life? Want to work on problems with family members, partner or children? I know how to help!
Hello there! I’m very happy you decided to take the first step in your therapy journey. Believe it or not you already possess the skills and tools you need to lead a better life. I am just here to help you unlock them! Are you struggling from anxiety and/or depression? Having a hard time managing relationships? Can't get past things that have happened in your life? Want to work on problems with family members, partner or children? I know how to help!
(412) 307-9032 View (412) 307-9032
Photo of Jessica Samantha Rumbaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Jessica Samantha Rumbaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I excel at helping those with mood or anxiety disorders learn more effective behaviors. I find I work well with people who are open to learning a variety of skills to make change more of a reality in their life, whether this change is handling stress better, working to improve relationships, being more 'present' in life, or just being able to get out of bed and make it through the day. We're all human, and everyone deserves the support to build their life worth living. It is my joy to help others in that building process.
I excel at helping those with mood or anxiety disorders learn more effective behaviors. I find I work well with people who are open to learning a variety of skills to make change more of a reality in their life, whether this change is handling stress better, working to improve relationships, being more 'present' in life, or just being able to get out of bed and make it through the day. We're all human, and everyone deserves the support to build their life worth living. It is my joy to help others in that building process.
(412) 214-7698 View (412) 214-7698
Photo of Jaclyn Elizabeth Wasco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Jaclyn Elizabeth Wasco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
Opening yourself up to someone takes a lot of courage. Just beginning this step, looking for a therapist, shows that courage, whether it's for yourself or a family member. I have worked extensively with children (4+) teenagers, and families over the past 10 years in different mediums. I begin by helping my client to feel safe and and encouraged. One of the most important aspects of beginning this relationship is to encourage clients to identify strengths, resilience, and areas for growth. We will work by applying these strengths to address your goals and develop and practice coping skills to increase your belief in yourself.
Opening yourself up to someone takes a lot of courage. Just beginning this step, looking for a therapist, shows that courage, whether it's for yourself or a family member. I have worked extensively with children (4+) teenagers, and families over the past 10 years in different mediums. I begin by helping my client to feel safe and and encouraged. One of the most important aspects of beginning this relationship is to encourage clients to identify strengths, resilience, and areas for growth. We will work by applying these strengths to address your goals and develop and practice coping skills to increase your belief in yourself.
(412) 534-5298 View (412) 534-5298
Photo of Shannon Dering, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Shannon Dering
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations on taking the first step in your healing journey. This is a courageous first step in the line of many. Life can be difficult, stressful, challenging and overwhelming. Everyone experiences these feelings at some point in their life, including therapists, and that's okay! I firmly believe that everyone is capable healing and peace, and I am humbled to be a part of that healing journey. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space for you, using unconditional positive regard, empathy and connection, to explore your healing journey and deepen your self understanding.
Congratulations on taking the first step in your healing journey. This is a courageous first step in the line of many. Life can be difficult, stressful, challenging and overwhelming. Everyone experiences these feelings at some point in their life, including therapists, and that's okay! I firmly believe that everyone is capable healing and peace, and I am humbled to be a part of that healing journey. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space for you, using unconditional positive regard, empathy and connection, to explore your healing journey and deepen your self understanding.
(412) 891-8344 View (412) 891-8344
Photo of Nicole E Vozza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrendale, PA
Nicole E Vozza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
Iyanla Vanzant. said -"Do what brings you joy, and your purpose will unfold." We all go through something at some point in our lives and reaching out for help can be difficult. I am glad you did reach out. I bring over 10 years of experience in the areas of Substance Use, Mental Health, Dual Diagnosis and Sex Offenders. I cultivate a welcoming, trusting, and safe environment. This environment allows us to collaborate our efforts, focusing on your needs, enhance existing and gain new coping skills to improve life's purpose and reduce stress.
Iyanla Vanzant. said -"Do what brings you joy, and your purpose will unfold." We all go through something at some point in our lives and reaching out for help can be difficult. I am glad you did reach out. I bring over 10 years of experience in the areas of Substance Use, Mental Health, Dual Diagnosis and Sex Offenders. I cultivate a welcoming, trusting, and safe environment. This environment allows us to collaborate our efforts, focusing on your needs, enhance existing and gain new coping skills to improve life's purpose and reduce stress.
(412) 274-8265 View (412) 274-8265
Photo of Melissa Geib, Psychologist in Warrendale, PA
Melissa Geib
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Warrendale, PA 15086
Not accepting new clients
Life can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it helps to have a co-pilot who can help you see new paths. You have your own difficulties and past. You might know what you or your child needs help with: anxiety, depression, trouble in relationships, school or work, or feeling upset about events that have occurred in your life. Maybe you don't know why, but just feel like something's wrong. I create a safe environment to listen and talk with you as you learn about yourself, what's causing your symptoms, and how life can be more enjoyable.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it helps to have a co-pilot who can help you see new paths. You have your own difficulties and past. You might know what you or your child needs help with: anxiety, depression, trouble in relationships, school or work, or feeling upset about events that have occurred in your life. Maybe you don't know why, but just feel like something's wrong. I create a safe environment to listen and talk with you as you learn about yourself, what's causing your symptoms, and how life can be more enjoyable.
(724) 705-6482 View (724) 705-6482

See more therapy options for Warrendale

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Warrendale, PA

30+

Average cost per session

$110

Therapists in Warrendale, PA who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
90% Anxiety
87% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem
63% Grief
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Highmark

How Therapists in Warrendale, PA see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
25% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Warrendale?

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.