Therapists in Rayville, LA

Photo of Eja R Johnson, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eja R Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rayville, LA 71269  (Online Only)
With a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and families in Northeast Louisiana, I am passionate about offering and providing elite therapeutic services to my community. I believe our environment and experiences shape us but do not have to define us or lock us into anxiousness, shame, confusion, or fear. I am an advocate for seeking self care through therapy services while learning to walk in the truth about ourselves and not the falsehoods of past trauma, interactions, and/or relationships. I
With a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and families in Northeast Louisiana, I am passionate about offering and providing elite therapeutic services to my community. I believe our environment and experiences shape us but do not have to define us or lock us into anxiousness, shame, confusion, or fear. I am an advocate for seeking self care through therapy services while learning to walk in the truth about ourselves and not the falsehoods of past trauma, interactions, and/or relationships. I
(318) 317-4902 View (318) 317-4902
Photo of Amanda Whatley Miller - Restored Counseling and Consultation, LLC, MA, LPC, LPC-SA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Restored Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-SA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rayville, LA 71269
We are accepting new clients! Restored Counseling is a place of hope, healing and acceptance for all people. It is our purpose and mission to work with every client and their circumstances. Our Clinic hours are Tuesday and Thursday in Monroe and Wednesday in Rayville. We are accepting BCBS Insurance, Vantage and private pay clients. Insurance will not cover Custody Evaluations, Court Ordered Services or client work that is mandated by DCFS. We do NOT accept Medicaid or Optum/UnitedHealthcare.
We are accepting new clients! Restored Counseling is a place of hope, healing and acceptance for all people. It is our purpose and mission to work with every client and their circumstances. Our Clinic hours are Tuesday and Thursday in Monroe and Wednesday in Rayville. We are accepting BCBS Insurance, Vantage and private pay clients. Insurance will not cover Custody Evaluations, Court Ordered Services or client work that is mandated by DCFS. We do NOT accept Medicaid or Optum/UnitedHealthcare.
(318) 625-6201 View (318) 625-6201
Photo of Alyssa Tamburo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Tamburo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rayville, LA 71269
There are so many obstacles life can throw at you. It is exhausting, crippling, and overwhelming. It can leave you feeling like you are caught in a tidal wave and drowning. How do you get to a place where you feel like you can breathe again? Take my hand and let me help pull you out of the crashing waves. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to speak freely in. I believe in establishing caring, trustworthy relationships with my clients. Through love, compassion, and understanding we can work together to conquer the struggles that are impacting your life. You are not alone in this.
There are so many obstacles life can throw at you. It is exhausting, crippling, and overwhelming. It can leave you feeling like you are caught in a tidal wave and drowning. How do you get to a place where you feel like you can breathe again? Take my hand and let me help pull you out of the crashing waves. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to speak freely in. I believe in establishing caring, trustworthy relationships with my clients. Through love, compassion, and understanding we can work together to conquer the struggles that are impacting your life. You are not alone in this.
(318) 600-5175 View (318) 600-5175
Photo of Denitra Beasley, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denitra Beasley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rayville, LA 71269
Hello there! I am at your service as we embark on a journey of self-discovery! Adjusting to change around us can be difficult. At times, it can leave us filling overwhelmed and burdened. Your healing journey towards peace starts here! If you are wanting to learn more about yourself and find alternative avenues to better manage changes in your life you do have options.
Hello there! I am at your service as we embark on a journey of self-discovery! Adjusting to change around us can be difficult. At times, it can leave us filling overwhelmed and burdened. Your healing journey towards peace starts here! If you are wanting to learn more about yourself and find alternative avenues to better manage changes in your life you do have options.
(318) 374-1484 View (318) 374-1484
Photo of Scarlett Stansbury, PLPC, PLMFT
Scarlett Stansbury
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, PLPC, PLMFT
Verified Verified
Rayville, LA 71269
If you have found yourself in a dark place, brought there by your past trauma, circumstantial difficulties, lack of motivation, intrusive thoughts, low self-esteem, and/ or all of the above, I would love to offer you the help you need and deserve. Healing begins the moment we're heard. My primary goal is for my clients feel seen and heard, without fear of judgment. I want to provide a safe space for you to process, heal, and grow. I particularly enjoy working with clients who would like their christian values incorporated into their counseling!
If you have found yourself in a dark place, brought there by your past trauma, circumstantial difficulties, lack of motivation, intrusive thoughts, low self-esteem, and/ or all of the above, I would love to offer you the help you need and deserve. Healing begins the moment we're heard. My primary goal is for my clients feel seen and heard, without fear of judgment. I want to provide a safe space for you to process, heal, and grow. I particularly enjoy working with clients who would like their christian values incorporated into their counseling!
(318) 421-3305 View (318) 421-3305
Photo of Catherine H Price, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine H Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Rayville, LA 71269
I have substantial experience providing individual, couple, family, and group therapy in areas of addiction, mental health, trauma, grief, anger, relationship issues, and other life and family issues.
I have substantial experience providing individual, couple, family, and group therapy in areas of addiction, mental health, trauma, grief, anger, relationship issues, and other life and family issues.
(318) 386-4854 View (318) 386-4854
Photo of Lesley Lowman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lesley Lowman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rayville, LA 71269
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. It could be losing a loved one, a job or some other major life change. Maybe there’s conflict within your family or other close relationships. Sometimes you just feel sad, lonely, or confused about what to do next. And for others, there is something devastating from the past that feels impossible to move beyond. This is when counseling can help. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone and that help can be found, you just have to be willing to take that first scary step in asking for it.
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. It could be losing a loved one, a job or some other major life change. Maybe there’s conflict within your family or other close relationships. Sometimes you just feel sad, lonely, or confused about what to do next. And for others, there is something devastating from the past that feels impossible to move beyond. This is when counseling can help. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone and that help can be found, you just have to be willing to take that first scary step in asking for it.
(318) 232-4576 View (318) 232-4576

Online Therapists

Photo of Taylor Draughn, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Draughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Monroe, LA 71291  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by the weight of expectations that either you or others place on you? Do you struggle to quiet that inner critic that always tells you what you do isn't enough? Hi there! My name is Taylor Draughn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Louisiana. I have worked in this field for ten years with a great deal of my experience focused on helping people just like you learn how to manage anxiety, depression, and burnout while also reprocessing traumatic life events. You don't have to stay with this weight, and I would love to be with you in this journey!
Do you feel overwhelmed by the weight of expectations that either you or others place on you? Do you struggle to quiet that inner critic that always tells you what you do isn't enough? Hi there! My name is Taylor Draughn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Louisiana. I have worked in this field for ten years with a great deal of my experience focused on helping people just like you learn how to manage anxiety, depression, and burnout while also reprocessing traumatic life events. You don't have to stay with this weight, and I would love to be with you in this journey!
(318) 668-7567 View (318) 668-7567
Photo of Skylar Anthony, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Skylar Anthony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pineville, LA 71360
Hey, you! Yes, You! If you’re feeling stressed out, can’t slow down, just lost a family member or pet, trying to understand “neurodivergence”, wanting to kick a bad habit, or feel overstimulated all the time, I would love to join your journey.
Hey, you! Yes, You! If you’re feeling stressed out, can’t slow down, just lost a family member or pet, trying to understand “neurodivergence”, wanting to kick a bad habit, or feel overstimulated all the time, I would love to join your journey.
(318) 301-3640 View (318) 301-3640
Photo of Quintell Price-Turner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quintell Price-Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, LA 71303  (Online Only)
Let's connect! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping adult and adolescent clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, crisis management, behavior modification, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, & anger management. I also have experience helping clients increase their motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
Let's connect! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping adult and adolescent clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, crisis management, behavior modification, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, & anger management. I also have experience helping clients increase their motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
(318) 531-3963 View (318) 531-3963
Photo of Christy Ticheli, DSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Ticheli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or grief? Do you find yourself struggling to maintain a sense of self-worth amidst life's challenges? Perhaps you've recently faced a significant life transition, leaving you feeling disconnected and unsure of your path forward. If you're nodding along, know that you're not alone. I understand the weight of these emotions and the toll they can take on your daily life: ignoring your own needs can have lasting effects on your mental and physical well-being. But there is hope.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or grief? Do you find yourself struggling to maintain a sense of self-worth amidst life's challenges? Perhaps you've recently faced a significant life transition, leaving you feeling disconnected and unsure of your path forward. If you're nodding along, know that you're not alone. I understand the weight of these emotions and the toll they can take on your daily life: ignoring your own needs can have lasting effects on your mental and physical well-being. But there is hope.
(318) 498-6061 View (318) 498-6061
Photo of Natoshia Wellman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natoshia Wellman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, LA 71303
We all have times in our lives where we need the help and support of others. And we all need a place where we can share our burdens and feel understood. My goal is to provide an encouraging, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment where you feel free to share the hard things about your life; the things that you are afraid to tell others or maybe even acknowledge to yourself. Together we will collaborate in helping you reach your goals, whether that be coping with loss, depression, or anxiety, learning new skills, discovering yourself and your unique strengths, or finding your purpose and joy.
We all have times in our lives where we need the help and support of others. And we all need a place where we can share our burdens and feel understood. My goal is to provide an encouraging, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment where you feel free to share the hard things about your life; the things that you are afraid to tell others or maybe even acknowledge to yourself. Together we will collaborate in helping you reach your goals, whether that be coping with loss, depression, or anxiety, learning new skills, discovering yourself and your unique strengths, or finding your purpose and joy.
(318) 386-4609 View (318) 386-4609
Photo of Emily Hill, MS, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Life can be tough. There are times when we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unheard. We experience a range of emotions and face situations that can be difficult to manage alone. Counseling is a tool to gain clarity and direction when things seem too foggy to navigate on our own. As a counselor, it is my goal to provide my clients with a counseling relationship built on trust, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I strive be a partner in helping clients to discover and build upon the strengths and potential they already have within themselves.
Life can be tough. There are times when we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unheard. We experience a range of emotions and face situations that can be difficult to manage alone. Counseling is a tool to gain clarity and direction when things seem too foggy to navigate on our own. As a counselor, it is my goal to provide my clients with a counseling relationship built on trust, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I strive be a partner in helping clients to discover and build upon the strengths and potential they already have within themselves.
(318) 287-8580 View (318) 287-8580
Photo of Carolyn Ann Bruce, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Ann Bruce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71209
A compass is a tool used for guidance and direction. It is vital in helping someone find their way when they are lost or trying to get to their destination. Much like a compass, counseling can be an important tool for "direction" through a variety of difficult situations. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you in healthy ways to change behaviors that may be contributing to your problems. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re are ready to move in a new direction in your life. I look forward working with you to achieve your goals.
A compass is a tool used for guidance and direction. It is vital in helping someone find their way when they are lost or trying to get to their destination. Much like a compass, counseling can be an important tool for "direction" through a variety of difficult situations. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you in healthy ways to change behaviors that may be contributing to your problems. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re are ready to move in a new direction in your life. I look forward working with you to achieve your goals.
(318) 225-7229 View (318) 225-7229
Photo of Stephanie Breland Dean, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Breland Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201  (Online Only)
Stephanie B. Dean, MA, LPC, is a psychotherapist with experience and training in women’s issues, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit disorders, family-of-origin issues, self-esteem, and more. She possesses a Master of Arts Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and is the founder of Greater Bogalusa Community Center, a nonprofit, human services organization in Bogalusa, LA. Stephanie. Dean possesses special skills and experience in working with patients to uncover core issues and get to the “root of the problem”, especially in cases in which feelings of extreme guilt or shame are involved.
Stephanie B. Dean, MA, LPC, is a psychotherapist with experience and training in women’s issues, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit disorders, family-of-origin issues, self-esteem, and more. She possesses a Master of Arts Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and is the founder of Greater Bogalusa Community Center, a nonprofit, human services organization in Bogalusa, LA. Stephanie. Dean possesses special skills and experience in working with patients to uncover core issues and get to the “root of the problem”, especially in cases in which feelings of extreme guilt or shame are involved.
(318) 239-7722 View (318) 239-7722
Suzette Crayton Gutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bastrop, LA 71220  (Online Only)
Life is a journey with many changes. Adapting to those changes can be difficult but you do not have to go through the journey alone. Let me help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who have been practicing for over 20 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I provide individual, relationship, and family therapy. My goal is to make therapy convenient by offering home based counseling.
Life is a journey with many changes. Adapting to those changes can be difficult but you do not have to go through the journey alone. Let me help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who have been practicing for over 20 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I provide individual, relationship, and family therapy. My goal is to make therapy convenient by offering home based counseling.
(318) 814-9108 View (318) 814-9108
Photo of Alicia Mainka, LPC, LMFT, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Mainka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pineville, LA 71360  (Online Only)
I'm so excited you are here today! That shows me you are ready to overcome whatever challenges you are currently facing. So tell me, what are you struggling with at this time in your life? Are you struggling in a relationship or connection with others? Are you facing a big life decision or a new phase in your life and feeling uncertain? Are you feeling heartbroken after the loss of a loved one and seeking healthy ways to cope with the pain of that loss? When you are struggling, talking to someone who can offer an objective perspective is just the support you need to help you overcome whatever struggles you are facing right now.
I'm so excited you are here today! That shows me you are ready to overcome whatever challenges you are currently facing. So tell me, what are you struggling with at this time in your life? Are you struggling in a relationship or connection with others? Are you facing a big life decision or a new phase in your life and feeling uncertain? Are you feeling heartbroken after the loss of a loved one and seeking healthy ways to cope with the pain of that loss? When you are struggling, talking to someone who can offer an objective perspective is just the support you need to help you overcome whatever struggles you are facing right now.
(601) 476-5898 View (601) 476-5898
Photo of Zenobia Wilson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zenobia Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71203  (Online Only)
Are you feeling lost, anxious, or struggling to cope? Know that you are not alone. I invite you to take the courageous step of reaching out for support. Whether you’re grappling with relationship issues, seeking to heal from past traumas, or simply looking for a space to explore your thoughts and feelings, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, or struggling to cope? Know that you are not alone. I invite you to take the courageous step of reaching out for support. Whether you’re grappling with relationship issues, seeking to heal from past traumas, or simply looking for a space to explore your thoughts and feelings, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey.
(318) 521-9553 View (318) 521-9553
Photo of Abbi Jones Pruitt Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, NCC, LPC-S, LMSW, LCDC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abbi Jones Pruitt Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S, LMSW, LCDC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71203  (Online Only)
Board Certified, with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and social services field, I take pride in providing a safe and non-judgmental space for people to share their experiences and explore new ways of coping with life's challenges. Taking the first step to seek counseling takes courage. For some, it can be frightening, intimidating and uncomfortable; for others, embarrassing. My goal is to help make it one of the best decisions of your life! Allow me to guide and assist you in your journey.
Board Certified, with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and social services field, I take pride in providing a safe and non-judgmental space for people to share their experiences and explore new ways of coping with life's challenges. Taking the first step to seek counseling takes courage. For some, it can be frightening, intimidating and uncomfortable; for others, embarrassing. My goal is to help make it one of the best decisions of your life! Allow me to guide and assist you in your journey.
(281) 549-8170 View (281) 549-8170
Photo of Rosalyn Williams - Resilient Living Community Services, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Resilient Living Community Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Minden, LA 71055
Are you having difficulty managing yourself, family and/or everyday events? Start building resiliency with Resilient Living Community Services, LLC. I see counseling as a process in which the client and counselor work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life and work in a systematic way toward achieving those goals.
Are you having difficulty managing yourself, family and/or everyday events? Start building resiliency with Resilient Living Community Services, LLC. I see counseling as a process in which the client and counselor work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life and work in a systematic way toward achieving those goals.
(318) 239-7633 View (318) 239-7633

See more therapy options for Rayville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Rayville, LA

< 10

Therapists in Rayville, LA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
86% Parenting
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Coping Skills
86% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
40% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
20% Medicaid

How Therapists in Rayville, LA see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Rayville?

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.