Therapists in Bethel Park, PA

Photo of Vincent A Pietropaoli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Vincent A Pietropaoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
(878) 203-1183 View (878) 203-1183
Photo of Quentin Hampton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Quentin Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Working through the Grace Wellness Center in Western Pennsylvania, I am here for any individual who is motivated to find change in their lives. I believe that our daily thinking and beliefs contribute to many issues that we face. By being willing to uncover and explore your thinking and past experiences, problematic thoughts and feelings can find healing for the future.
Working through the Grace Wellness Center in Western Pennsylvania, I am here for any individual who is motivated to find change in their lives. I believe that our daily thinking and beliefs contribute to many issues that we face. By being willing to uncover and explore your thinking and past experiences, problematic thoughts and feelings can find healing for the future.
(412) 910-1681 View (412) 910-1681
Photo of Sabrina J Heller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethel Park, PA
Sabrina J Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients. The choice to start therapy can be a difficult one. Sometimes life’s greatest challenges also present opportunities for transformation. My desire is to provide a safe and comfortable space where that can occur. Psychotherapy can be a wonderful process to take much needed time for yourself. The world throws a lot at us. I believe therapy needs to be a conversation-tailored to each persons individual needs. Collaboration is key and my goal is to help my clients learn skills and strategies to increase coping and find peace. I also believe that change is possible for every person. My pronouns are she/her.
Not accepting new clients. The choice to start therapy can be a difficult one. Sometimes life’s greatest challenges also present opportunities for transformation. My desire is to provide a safe and comfortable space where that can occur. Psychotherapy can be a wonderful process to take much needed time for yourself. The world throws a lot at us. I believe therapy needs to be a conversation-tailored to each persons individual needs. Collaboration is key and my goal is to help my clients learn skills and strategies to increase coping and find peace. I also believe that change is possible for every person. My pronouns are she/her.
(412) 265-1486 View (412) 265-1486
Photo of Ashley J Julin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Ashley J Julin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Ashley received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Throughout her career, she has gained experience in home, school, community, group, and outpatient settings. Ashley incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques into her sessions. She encourages and empowers clients to make positive and healthy lifestyle changes. Ashley provides therapy to children, teens, adults, families, and couples. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, trauma, anger management, and relationship issues.
Ashley received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Throughout her career, she has gained experience in home, school, community, group, and outpatient settings. Ashley incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques into her sessions. She encourages and empowers clients to make positive and healthy lifestyle changes. Ashley provides therapy to children, teens, adults, families, and couples. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, trauma, anger management, and relationship issues.
(412) 283-5095 View (412) 283-5095
Photo of Luke A Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Luke A Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Waitlist for new clients
Is your child or teen or young adult struggling with anger, anxiety, trauma or depression? Are you losing hope and unsure where to turn to help them? I have worked with children, teens, and adults for the past 20 years working to empower young people with coping skills and practical strategies to manage strong emotions. I use a variety of evidence based strategies including mindfulness and cognitve-behavioral therapy to help young people find a sense of inner calm. Happiness and peace are possible for your child and for you. New Waters Counseling LLC is here for children ages 8 + and adults as well.
Is your child or teen or young adult struggling with anger, anxiety, trauma or depression? Are you losing hope and unsure where to turn to help them? I have worked with children, teens, and adults for the past 20 years working to empower young people with coping skills and practical strategies to manage strong emotions. I use a variety of evidence based strategies including mindfulness and cognitve-behavioral therapy to help young people find a sense of inner calm. Happiness and peace are possible for your child and for you. New Waters Counseling LLC is here for children ages 8 + and adults as well.
(412) 312-4225 View (412) 312-4225
Photo of Christina M Ohm, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Christina M Ohm, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
I have over 25 years as an experienced counselor in a variety of settings. I have worked over the years in home, school, community, residential, hospital and outpatient settings. My therapy is based on an Adlerian approach as well as advanced trainings in DBT, anxiety issues including OCD, depressive issues including MDD, ADHD, mood disorders, strength-based therapy, family therapy, and relationship dynamics. I love to use visualization techniques as well as incorporate current research solutions, workbooks, and training materials into my current practice.
I have over 25 years as an experienced counselor in a variety of settings. I have worked over the years in home, school, community, residential, hospital and outpatient settings. My therapy is based on an Adlerian approach as well as advanced trainings in DBT, anxiety issues including OCD, depressive issues including MDD, ADHD, mood disorders, strength-based therapy, family therapy, and relationship dynamics. I love to use visualization techniques as well as incorporate current research solutions, workbooks, and training materials into my current practice.
(412) 360-8652 View (412) 360-8652
Photo of Robin E Hennessey, Psychologist in Bethel Park, PA
Robin E Hennessey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
I received my doctorate in counseling psychology at Chatham University. Throughout my education and training I obtained experience working with individuals of all ages. My work focuses primarily on serving those who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attachment disorders, borderline personality disorder, and behavioral problems. I have received training in multiple forms of individual talk therapy, play therapy, and family therapy. I prioritize viewing each of my clients as a unique individual and I integrate/match elements of various therapeutic styles based on client preferences and needs.
I received my doctorate in counseling psychology at Chatham University. Throughout my education and training I obtained experience working with individuals of all ages. My work focuses primarily on serving those who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attachment disorders, borderline personality disorder, and behavioral problems. I have received training in multiple forms of individual talk therapy, play therapy, and family therapy. I prioritize viewing each of my clients as a unique individual and I integrate/match elements of various therapeutic styles based on client preferences and needs.
(412) 453-8782 View (412) 453-8782
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(412) 775-2376 x1 View (412) 775-2376 x1
Photo of Molly A Connelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Molly A Connelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Life can be difficult. It can leave us feeling anxious, depressed and alone. I have been helping individuals for over 20 years and welcome the opportunity to provide my experience and passion to help you live your best life. I understand the importance of and value a strong therapeutic alliance. I use an integrated approach to therapy which is specific to your individual needs. We will work together to identify problem areas, along with strengths. We will find effective strategies to help you work through past issues that may be draining your energy or causing pain.
Life can be difficult. It can leave us feeling anxious, depressed and alone. I have been helping individuals for over 20 years and welcome the opportunity to provide my experience and passion to help you live your best life. I understand the importance of and value a strong therapeutic alliance. I use an integrated approach to therapy which is specific to your individual needs. We will work together to identify problem areas, along with strengths. We will find effective strategies to help you work through past issues that may be draining your energy or causing pain.
(412) 489-0709 View (412) 489-0709
Photo of Alexis B Rosendo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bethel Park, PA
Alexis B Rosendo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MA
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Welcome! I'm Alexis and I have experience working with every age group (children, teens, adults, retirees/senior citizens) over the span of mental health concerns including clinical symptoms, relational distress, emotional disturbance, and behavioral adjustment. Additionally, I have served couples in marriage counseling and families through family counseling/parenting support. Ideal clients are motivated for change, interested in exploring deep roots of present issues, and willing to try what might be uncomfortable or new to take ownership of their health + be empowered to pursue true behavior modification and healing.
Welcome! I'm Alexis and I have experience working with every age group (children, teens, adults, retirees/senior citizens) over the span of mental health concerns including clinical symptoms, relational distress, emotional disturbance, and behavioral adjustment. Additionally, I have served couples in marriage counseling and families through family counseling/parenting support. Ideal clients are motivated for change, interested in exploring deep roots of present issues, and willing to try what might be uncomfortable or new to take ownership of their health + be empowered to pursue true behavior modification and healing.
(412) 754-5990 View (412) 754-5990
Photo of Adam Freed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Adam Freed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
The best thing about being a therapist is getting to meet so many different people and walk with them through their journey, being able to help them reach their own personal goals. I really enjoy working with individuals that have a desire to make lasting changes and take back control. We can lose ourselves in the chaos that we find ourselves surrounded by, and being able help others find solitude within that chaos is what I love about this profession.
The best thing about being a therapist is getting to meet so many different people and walk with them through their journey, being able to help them reach their own personal goals. I really enjoy working with individuals that have a desire to make lasting changes and take back control. We can lose ourselves in the chaos that we find ourselves surrounded by, and being able help others find solitude within that chaos is what I love about this profession.
(412) 318-8792 View (412) 318-8792
Photo of Walking Freed Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Walking Freed Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
Walking Freed Counseling serves a mission to help our clients walk away feeling freed and empowered! We offer telehealth counseling services available across the state of Pennsylvania. Enjoy the convenience of counseling from wherever you feel most comfortable. Our counselors have experience working with a wide range of clients including children, teenagers, young adults, as well as older adults, who all face a variety of challenges.
Walking Freed Counseling serves a mission to help our clients walk away feeling freed and empowered! We offer telehealth counseling services available across the state of Pennsylvania. Enjoy the convenience of counseling from wherever you feel most comfortable. Our counselors have experience working with a wide range of clients including children, teenagers, young adults, as well as older adults, who all face a variety of challenges.
(412) 912-2082 View (412) 912-2082
Photo of Connor Shorts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Connor Shorts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy .I received my masters in counseling from Duquesne University. Throughout my education and training I obtained experience working with individuals of all ages. My work focuses primarily on serving those who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attachment disorders, and behavioral problems.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy .I received my masters in counseling from Duquesne University. Throughout my education and training I obtained experience working with individuals of all ages. My work focuses primarily on serving those who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attachment disorders, and behavioral problems.
(412) 453-8857 View (412) 453-8857
Photo of Noelle E Marinelli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Noelle E Marinelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, Noelle Marinelli, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Thank you for finding me. I am a mental health therapist who strives to help others with creating their best version of themselves. I offer support, empathy, and guidance utilizing evidence-based treatment to help you to navigate your life path with wisdom and clarity.
Thank you for finding me. I am a mental health therapist who strives to help others with creating their best version of themselves. I offer support, empathy, and guidance utilizing evidence-based treatment to help you to navigate your life path with wisdom and clarity.
(724) 303-7839 View (724) 303-7839
Photo of Chaley Regina Knight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Chaley Regina Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
I truly believe that all humans seek to be seen, heard, and understood. Life is hard, but no one has to do that alone. As a counselor, I hope to create a safe space where anyone can begin to acknowledge and tell their story. My humanistic approach is foundational to the counseling I provide. Depending on the client and the treatment goals, I will use a variety of theories and techniques. I wholeheartedly believe in positive psychology and love to help others see and seek their fullest potential.
I truly believe that all humans seek to be seen, heard, and understood. Life is hard, but no one has to do that alone. As a counselor, I hope to create a safe space where anyone can begin to acknowledge and tell their story. My humanistic approach is foundational to the counseling I provide. Depending on the client and the treatment goals, I will use a variety of theories and techniques. I wholeheartedly believe in positive psychology and love to help others see and seek their fullest potential.
(412) 501-9706 View (412) 501-9706
Photo of Zandier Counseling, Psychologist in Bethel Park, PA
Zandier Counseling
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
More Than Just Talk....... If you haven't been in psychotherapy before, you may not realize that the traditional approach to treatment is to educate the client about their conditions and teach them how to change their own feelings and behaviors. Although this approach can be very helpful, it is usually a long process that depends a great deal on the individual's courageous persistence. Moreover, a change in behavior and belief does not necessarily resolve the history of negative experiences fueling such things as depression and anxiety. These are some of the reasons I offer "More Than Just Talk".
More Than Just Talk....... If you haven't been in psychotherapy before, you may not realize that the traditional approach to treatment is to educate the client about their conditions and teach them how to change their own feelings and behaviors. Although this approach can be very helpful, it is usually a long process that depends a great deal on the individual's courageous persistence. Moreover, a change in behavior and belief does not necessarily resolve the history of negative experiences fueling such things as depression and anxiety. These are some of the reasons I offer "More Than Just Talk".
(412) 253-6192 View (412) 253-6192
Photo of Leann E. Romitti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Leann E. Romitti
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CMHNCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
“I don’t know who I am anymore”. “I used to be so happy”. “Why is being healthy so hard right now”. “When did it become so hard to get out of bed”. Some days you find yourself asking these questions. You don’t know when it happened, but you barely recognize the person in the mirror. You don’t feel like yourself. You feel lost, stuck and overwhelmed by the little things. You feel guilty because you struggle to be present at your job, with your partner, or your children and family. You want to stop "just getting through another day". You are ready to take your life back. You are ready to thrive.
“I don’t know who I am anymore”. “I used to be so happy”. “Why is being healthy so hard right now”. “When did it become so hard to get out of bed”. Some days you find yourself asking these questions. You don’t know when it happened, but you barely recognize the person in the mirror. You don’t feel like yourself. You feel lost, stuck and overwhelmed by the little things. You feel guilty because you struggle to be present at your job, with your partner, or your children and family. You want to stop "just getting through another day". You are ready to take your life back. You are ready to thrive.
(412) 324-3175 View (412) 324-3175
Photo of Grace Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethel Park, PA
Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
(724) 987-5363 View (724) 987-5363
Photo of Jonathan Held, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethel Park, PA
Jonathan Held
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
My name is Jon and I would love to work with you! My background is in structural family therapy (SFT); however, I also have extensive experience in individual and couples therapy. I love helping individuals, couples, and/or families find more effective ways to cope and communicate. I can meet in Irwin, PA; Greensburg, PA; Bethel Park (Pittsburgh) Murrysville (near Monroeville/Pittsburgh); or online via Skype, FaceTime, or GoToMeeting
My name is Jon and I would love to work with you! My background is in structural family therapy (SFT); however, I also have extensive experience in individual and couples therapy. I love helping individuals, couples, and/or families find more effective ways to cope and communicate. I can meet in Irwin, PA; Greensburg, PA; Bethel Park (Pittsburgh) Murrysville (near Monroeville/Pittsburgh); or online via Skype, FaceTime, or GoToMeeting
(814) 602-5757 View (814) 602-5757
Photo of Elizabeth Skibinski-Bortman, Psychologist in Bethel Park, PA
Elizabeth Skibinski-Bortman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Are you confused and overwhelmed? Are you irritable, “cranky“ and prone to losing your temper? Are you having trouble concentrating or are you more forgetful than usual? Are you suffering from sleep problems or food cravings? Is stress affecting your daily functioning? I assure you that you can feel better. I teach my clients daily that there is a better way to live your life. If you’re willing to do the work, you can feel better and live better. Please call me so I can help you.
Are you confused and overwhelmed? Are you irritable, “cranky“ and prone to losing your temper? Are you having trouble concentrating or are you more forgetful than usual? Are you suffering from sleep problems or food cravings? Is stress affecting your daily functioning? I assure you that you can feel better. I teach my clients daily that there is a better way to live your life. If you’re willing to do the work, you can feel better and live better. Please call me so I can help you.
(724) 765-0856 View (724) 765-0856

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bethel Park, PA

80+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Bethel Park, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
99% Anxiety
86% Coping Skills
83% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
73% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
76% Highmark

How Therapists in Bethel Park, PA see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bethel Park?

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.