Therapists in Colorado

View cities and counties in Colorado
Photo of Mary Wickramasekera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Mary Wickramasekera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80305  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Looking for a way to work through depression, anxiety, substance use? Are you ready to feel whole again?
Feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Looking for a way to work through depression, anxiety, substance use? Are you ready to feel whole again?
(720) 821-6762 View (720) 821-6762
Photo of Kerry Stutzman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado
Kerry Stutzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
Do you wish you felt more fully alive? Do you want to feel more joy? Is real life harder than you expected? Are relationships more complicated than you wish they were? I think that hard times in life are like being stuck in a kiln... it is uncomfortable and miserable and we don't know when we'll get out. But when we do, we are stronger, waterproof, and our true colors are showing. Therapy can be a place to laugh, cry, learn and grow. It can be a place to share with someone what you are going through.
Do you wish you felt more fully alive? Do you want to feel more joy? Is real life harder than you expected? Are relationships more complicated than you wish they were? I think that hard times in life are like being stuck in a kiln... it is uncomfortable and miserable and we don't know when we'll get out. But when we do, we are stronger, waterproof, and our true colors are showing. Therapy can be a place to laugh, cry, learn and grow. It can be a place to share with someone what you are going through.
(303) 900-5829 View (303) 900-5829
Photo of Jacey Granda, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Jacey Granda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Broomfield, CO 80020
Does your pain feel like it is continually affecting your present? Does your past impede your joy in your relationships, career, hobbies, and goals? Do you feel ready to find freedom from the things that are weighing you down? If you feel like any of the questions above resonate for you, it is time to find healing. Experiencing pain in life is inevitable – being stuck in pain is not. Working through the root causes of your current struggles will allow you to experience joy and peace to a greater capacity. I am committed to partnering with clients to help them do just that.
Does your pain feel like it is continually affecting your present? Does your past impede your joy in your relationships, career, hobbies, and goals? Do you feel ready to find freedom from the things that are weighing you down? If you feel like any of the questions above resonate for you, it is time to find healing. Experiencing pain in life is inevitable – being stuck in pain is not. Working through the root causes of your current struggles will allow you to experience joy and peace to a greater capacity. I am committed to partnering with clients to help them do just that.
(720) 613-6155 View (720) 613-6155
Photo of Cori Barnes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colorado
Cori Barnes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
“I don't feel like I have anything to look forward to.” “I will never get over this breakup.” “I feel like nobody gets me.” “I think I'm past something, then I overreact.” “I spend most of my time worrying or avoiding." Do any of these resonate with you? We all struggle with difficult circumstances, thoughts and emotions at some point. Most times we can move through these but sometimes we get stuck. This does not mean we are broken, bad, or unloveable; although it can certainly feel that way. You are not alone! There is hope for a satisfying life. Having the courage to ask for help can be the first step toward positive change.
“I don't feel like I have anything to look forward to.” “I will never get over this breakup.” “I feel like nobody gets me.” “I think I'm past something, then I overreact.” “I spend most of my time worrying or avoiding." Do any of these resonate with you? We all struggle with difficult circumstances, thoughts and emotions at some point. Most times we can move through these but sometimes we get stuck. This does not mean we are broken, bad, or unloveable; although it can certainly feel that way. You are not alone! There is hope for a satisfying life. Having the courage to ask for help can be the first step toward positive change.
(970) 610-1272 View (970) 610-1272
Photo of Hannah Olds, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Hannah Olds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you ever feel trapped inside your head, unable to get past self-defeating beliefs? Do you long for the life you envision, yet feel uncertain about how to get there? You aren't alone, and I'm here to help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. Reaching out is a step in that direction, and I would love to walk with you through the process of getting started on your journey to freedom. With Creative Counseling Solutions, you get the benefit of counseling from a licensed therapist with over a decade in the field, and the convenience of sessions from the comfort your home or office via telephone or secure video.
Do you ever feel trapped inside your head, unable to get past self-defeating beliefs? Do you long for the life you envision, yet feel uncertain about how to get there? You aren't alone, and I'm here to help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. Reaching out is a step in that direction, and I would love to walk with you through the process of getting started on your journey to freedom. With Creative Counseling Solutions, you get the benefit of counseling from a licensed therapist with over a decade in the field, and the convenience of sessions from the comfort your home or office via telephone or secure video.
(479) 309-5296 View (479) 309-5296
Photo of Sean Alton Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado
Sean Alton Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
There are times in our life when we struggle. When we feel overwhelmed and underheard. Times when we need the freedom to explore our unspoken parts, and to tell our stories without feeling judged. To be heard. Times when we need someone to stand with us, to help hold the weight and keep us steady while we walk through the darkness.
There are times in our life when we struggle. When we feel overwhelmed and underheard. Times when we need the freedom to explore our unspoken parts, and to tell our stories without feeling judged. To be heard. Times when we need someone to stand with us, to help hold the weight and keep us steady while we walk through the darkness.
(720) 797-5345 View (720) 797-5345
Photo of Hilah Neisha Remaily, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Hilah Neisha Remaily
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Create the life you want to be living! I use evidence based, body mind approaches, and EMDR to help you with your life's traumatic past and present challenges. For most people this requires a great deal of compassion, and patience for yourself. I will be there with you as your guide and witness. You will learn effective tools and daily practices. We will work together in a collaborative way at a pace that honors and respects your unique healing process. We will explore what helps you resolve the past, so you can live more fully in the present.
Create the life you want to be living! I use evidence based, body mind approaches, and EMDR to help you with your life's traumatic past and present challenges. For most people this requires a great deal of compassion, and patience for yourself. I will be there with you as your guide and witness. You will learn effective tools and daily practices. We will work together in a collaborative way at a pace that honors and respects your unique healing process. We will explore what helps you resolve the past, so you can live more fully in the present.
(720) 605-7761 View (720) 605-7761
Photo of John R Cayer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
John R Cayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can provide life-changing benefits for anyone, and doesn't mean that someone is “ill” or that anything is “wrong”. Feelings of sadness and worry are natural, and therapy can help us overcome difficult circumstances and learn skills that can assist us throughout the rest of our lives. I understand and respect the strength it takes to begin challenging roadblocks in our lives, and I am here to help you every step of the way.
Therapy can provide life-changing benefits for anyone, and doesn't mean that someone is “ill” or that anything is “wrong”. Feelings of sadness and worry are natural, and therapy can help us overcome difficult circumstances and learn skills that can assist us throughout the rest of our lives. I understand and respect the strength it takes to begin challenging roadblocks in our lives, and I am here to help you every step of the way.
(720) 709-2145 View (720) 709-2145
Photo of Bekka Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Bekka Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
You are an inherently resilient being who may sometimes need support through life challenges, strategies to move through the past or present, or just simply someone safe to talk to, and that is what I am here to help with. Each person is made up of valuable strengths that can be of great use to them in navigating life’s journey—my job is to help you realize and expand upon those strengths to empower themselves, all while in a safe environment. I have worked in intensive outpatient, inpatient, and outpatient settings and use this experience to help my clients wherever they may be on their journey.
You are an inherently resilient being who may sometimes need support through life challenges, strategies to move through the past or present, or just simply someone safe to talk to, and that is what I am here to help with. Each person is made up of valuable strengths that can be of great use to them in navigating life’s journey—my job is to help you realize and expand upon those strengths to empower themselves, all while in a safe environment. I have worked in intensive outpatient, inpatient, and outpatient settings and use this experience to help my clients wherever they may be on their journey.
(720) 806-4207 View (720) 806-4207
Photo of Arpan Parikh in Colorado
Arpan Parikh
MD, MBA, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
Dr. Parikh is the Chief Clinical Officer at SOL Mental Health. He attended The Ohio State University as a member of the 7-year BS/MD program, and graduated Summa Cum Laude with honors. He went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine in 2013. Dr. Parikh matched into the adult psychiatry residency program at Mount Sinai-St. Luke’s/West Hospitals. Dr. Parikh worked as a junior attending at the Fordham University Counseling and Psychological Services center and as a consulting psychiatrist at the John Jay College Wellness Center.
Dr. Parikh is the Chief Clinical Officer at SOL Mental Health. He attended The Ohio State University as a member of the 7-year BS/MD program, and graduated Summa Cum Laude with honors. He went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine in 2013. Dr. Parikh matched into the adult psychiatry residency program at Mount Sinai-St. Luke’s/West Hospitals. Dr. Parikh worked as a junior attending at the Fordham University Counseling and Psychological Services center and as a consulting psychiatrist at the John Jay College Wellness Center.
(720) 927-8453 View (720) 927-8453
Photo of Monica Bilow Makler, Registered Psychotherapist in Colorado
Monica Bilow Makler
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crested Butte, CO 81224
It's my passion to help individuals and couples explore new pathways toward living a more peaceful life led by wisdom and joy. For the past 30 years I've been working in the private and public sectors aiding people experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, addictions, codependency, low self esteem, body image, grief, sleep issues, PTSD, and conflictual relationships. My academic qualifications include studies in Tel-Aviv, Oxford and the USA.
It's my passion to help individuals and couples explore new pathways toward living a more peaceful life led by wisdom and joy. For the past 30 years I've been working in the private and public sectors aiding people experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, addictions, codependency, low self esteem, body image, grief, sleep issues, PTSD, and conflictual relationships. My academic qualifications include studies in Tel-Aviv, Oxford and the USA.
(970) 818-5384 View (970) 818-5384
Photo of Emily Aughenbaugh, Registered Psychotherapist in Colorado
Emily Aughenbaugh
Registered Psychotherapist, MFT, BSW, CATP, LAC
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80112
Are you stressed out or anxious? Does it feel like your marriage is struggling? Are you struggling to get through the day? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. And I know this is hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years. But I’m so glad you found me and have taken the courageous step of being here.
Are you stressed out or anxious? Does it feel like your marriage is struggling? Are you struggling to get through the day? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. And I know this is hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years. But I’m so glad you found me and have taken the courageous step of being here.
(720) 797-5280 View (720) 797-5280
Photo of Hayley Evans, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado
Hayley Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Broomfield, CO 80020
My life philosophy revolves around bringing loving kindness and acceptance into all parts of my life—including inside the therapeutic space. I believe we are all doing the best with the tools and experiences we were given, and that therapy can bring new meaning to those experiences. As a counselor, it is not my job to tell others how they should be—instead, I am here to accept my clients as they are while holding space for the areas in their lives that they want to change.
My life philosophy revolves around bringing loving kindness and acceptance into all parts of my life—including inside the therapeutic space. I believe we are all doing the best with the tools and experiences we were given, and that therapy can bring new meaning to those experiences. As a counselor, it is not my job to tell others how they should be—instead, I am here to accept my clients as they are while holding space for the areas in their lives that they want to change.
(303) 529-8782 View (303) 529-8782
Photo of Beth Tamborski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Beth Tamborski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m glad you’ve decided to reach out for counseling, as I know it can often be a difficult step to take. I look forward to getting to know you as you explore what brought you here. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all age ranges. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and utilize a person-centered approach, where I meet each individual where they are at on their journey towards wellness. I believe in the mind-body connection and the importance of using a holistic approach to building resilience and meeting life’s challenges.
Welcome! I’m glad you’ve decided to reach out for counseling, as I know it can often be a difficult step to take. I look forward to getting to know you as you explore what brought you here. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all age ranges. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and utilize a person-centered approach, where I meet each individual where they are at on their journey towards wellness. I believe in the mind-body connection and the importance of using a holistic approach to building resilience and meeting life’s challenges.
(720) 619-3250 View (720) 619-3250
Photo of Dr. Brittany Greiert, Psychologist in Colorado
Dr. Brittany Greiert
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Greenwood Village, CO 80111  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Denver based, dually licensed Psychologist and School Psychologist specializing in neurodivergence, mood disorders, and trauma. I aim to provide a safe, non judgmental, and affirming space for my clients to work towards their goals and develop skills to enrich their lives. I received my B.A. from Michigan State, M.A. from Pepperdine University, and PhD from the University of Denver. In 2019, I was awarded the Colorado School Psychologist of the Year and University of Denver Adjunct Professor of the Year.
Welcome! I am a Denver based, dually licensed Psychologist and School Psychologist specializing in neurodivergence, mood disorders, and trauma. I aim to provide a safe, non judgmental, and affirming space for my clients to work towards their goals and develop skills to enrich their lives. I received my B.A. from Michigan State, M.A. from Pepperdine University, and PhD from the University of Denver. In 2019, I was awarded the Colorado School Psychologist of the Year and University of Denver Adjunct Professor of the Year.
(720) 983-3390 View (720) 983-3390
Photo of George Sutherland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
George Sutherland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
I will do my best to listen carefully and closely, and speak back in ways that enhance your curiosity. In this collaboration, you will be able to discover more of who you are both to yourself, and to other people. You will find in me someone who respects all parts of you and challenges you. I understand that therapy is not easy, and will do my best to make you feel understood throughout the process.
I will do my best to listen carefully and closely, and speak back in ways that enhance your curiosity. In this collaboration, you will be able to discover more of who you are both to yourself, and to other people. You will find in me someone who respects all parts of you and challenges you. I understand that therapy is not easy, and will do my best to make you feel understood throughout the process.
(720) 790-7635 View (720) 790-7635
Photo of Raven Roth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Raven Roth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Raven Roth is dual-licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with more than 5 of experience specializing in life transitions, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. Raven has experience treating individuals between the ages of 15 and 90 in utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities such as Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Attachment Theory. She has extensive experience working with a wide spectrum of individuals, couples, and other family dynamics.
Raven Roth is dual-licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with more than 5 of experience specializing in life transitions, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. Raven has experience treating individuals between the ages of 15 and 90 in utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities such as Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Attachment Theory. She has extensive experience working with a wide spectrum of individuals, couples, and other family dynamics.
(720) 802-9717 View (720) 802-9717
Photo of Stephanie Sharp, Psychologist in Colorado
Stephanie Sharp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lone Tree, CO 80124
Is your child or teen struggling to keep up in school?... Are they forgetful, disorganized or easily distracted?... Are they always on the move or constantly interrupting?... Are you looking for ideas in how to boost your child or teen's school performance or academic self-confidence? ...If your answer is yes to any of these questions, a comprehensive evaluation can help by providing insights into areas of strength and difficulty to help answer these questions. As a part of the evaluation process, I will also identify targeted recommendations and practical solutions to support children and teens in reaching their potential.
Is your child or teen struggling to keep up in school?... Are they forgetful, disorganized or easily distracted?... Are they always on the move or constantly interrupting?... Are you looking for ideas in how to boost your child or teen's school performance or academic self-confidence? ...If your answer is yes to any of these questions, a comprehensive evaluation can help by providing insights into areas of strength and difficulty to help answer these questions. As a part of the evaluation process, I will also identify targeted recommendations and practical solutions to support children and teens in reaching their potential.
(720) 619-6464 View (720) 619-6464
Photo of Elizabeth Stahl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Elizabeth Stahl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Do you feel like you are stuck in a movie that you never even wanted to see? We don’t always get to chose the script, let alone our part in it. Life is either unpredictable or too predictable. Maybe you are tired of the reruns, the same feelings, same situations way too familiar relationships… Maybe you are ready for something different. Therapy addresses the tensions that are holding you back, causing discomfort and frustration. I help people move forward, find the routes through and out and we will explore interesting psychic places you never knew existed along the way.
Do you feel like you are stuck in a movie that you never even wanted to see? We don’t always get to chose the script, let alone our part in it. Life is either unpredictable or too predictable. Maybe you are tired of the reruns, the same feelings, same situations way too familiar relationships… Maybe you are ready for something different. Therapy addresses the tensions that are holding you back, causing discomfort and frustration. I help people move forward, find the routes through and out and we will explore interesting psychic places you never knew existed along the way.
(646) 798-9724 View (646) 798-9724
Photo of Elysia Robbins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Elysia Robbins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
YOU are the expert of your own experience, and it's an honor for me to work alongside you to create the life you desire. Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and neurodivergency, and LGBTQIA+ issues are a few of my specialty areas. I aim to provide a safe space where you feel comfortable and confident exploring your inner-self, nurturing your relationships, expanding your deepest curiosities, and healing any emotional wounds along the way. It's a huge step to reach out for support. The journey may be difficult–therapy is not easy–but my goal is for each client to have a positive therapeutic experience while we're working together.
YOU are the expert of your own experience, and it's an honor for me to work alongside you to create the life you desire. Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and neurodivergency, and LGBTQIA+ issues are a few of my specialty areas. I aim to provide a safe space where you feel comfortable and confident exploring your inner-self, nurturing your relationships, expanding your deepest curiosities, and healing any emotional wounds along the way. It's a huge step to reach out for support. The journey may be difficult–therapy is not easy–but my goal is for each client to have a positive therapeutic experience while we're working together.
(720) 927-9717 View (720) 927-9717

How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Colorado who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
68% Stress
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
66% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Colorado see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Colorado?

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.