Therapists in Manchester, NH

Photo of Christie Faella, Counselor in Manchester, NH
Christie Faella
Counselor, LCMHC , MLADC, RN
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102  (Online Only)
Christie Faella is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Licensed Master Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Registered Nurse. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology degree at Antioch University. Christie provides counseling for adults of all ages, couples and same sex couples. Christie’s treatment approach is client centered, integrative and holistic. Christie believes in the life transforming power of mindfulness and self-compassion to invite transformation of difficult places. Christie has experience working with those who are invested in finding recovery from a variety of mental health and addictions.
Christie Faella is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Licensed Master Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Registered Nurse. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology degree at Antioch University. Christie provides counseling for adults of all ages, couples and same sex couples. Christie’s treatment approach is client centered, integrative and holistic. Christie believes in the life transforming power of mindfulness and self-compassion to invite transformation of difficult places. Christie has experience working with those who are invested in finding recovery from a variety of mental health and addictions.
(603) 207-8422 View (603) 207-8422
Photo of Laurence Merrill Kelly Sr, Psychologist in Manchester, NH
Laurence Merrill Kelly Sr
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03103
I think the ideal client is someone who is motivated to change. I am a practitioner of positive psychology and believe that every person has tremendous resources and just needs to discover these gifts. I think the Psychologist must build upon assets and strengths. I think that humans can build pyramids or travel to the moon when given the right encouragement and belief.
I think the ideal client is someone who is motivated to change. I am a practitioner of positive psychology and believe that every person has tremendous resources and just needs to discover these gifts. I think the Psychologist must build upon assets and strengths. I think that humans can build pyramids or travel to the moon when given the right encouragement and belief.
(603) 392-7341 x1 View (603) 392-7341 x1
Photo of Brian Driscoll, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manchester, NH
Brian Driscoll
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103
I believe in the power of healing and the ability of everyone to be able to overcome trauma and adversity. Having previously served in the military and first responder, and now as a school counselor for children, I am dedicated to the service of others with a humanistic, person-centered, and strengths-based approach. My passion is in helping others heal from the effects of trauma and the many other obstacles that life will present. Often times the hardest step is the first step. With a soft voice, compassion, understanding, and acceptance, I want to take that first step with you and empower you to find strength and resilience.
I believe in the power of healing and the ability of everyone to be able to overcome trauma and adversity. Having previously served in the military and first responder, and now as a school counselor for children, I am dedicated to the service of others with a humanistic, person-centered, and strengths-based approach. My passion is in helping others heal from the effects of trauma and the many other obstacles that life will present. Often times the hardest step is the first step. With a soft voice, compassion, understanding, and acceptance, I want to take that first step with you and empower you to find strength and resilience.
(603) 696-4872 View (603) 696-4872
Photo of Mackenzie Seely, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Manchester, NH
Mackenzie Seely
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102  (Online Only)
LICSW & MLADC! I have a strong personal belief that all individuals who seek to change their lives are capable of doing so. I enjoy working with both those who are just starting to explore areas of their lives they are unhappy with or those who know what they want to change and are looking for guidance or new perspectives. Many clients come in with goals targeting their mental health and addiction, others are seeking changes in lifestyle or just need someone to listen. I am also available to provide evaluations as requested by clients, courts, or other entities! Happy to help! Reach out today!
LICSW & MLADC! I have a strong personal belief that all individuals who seek to change their lives are capable of doing so. I enjoy working with both those who are just starting to explore areas of their lives they are unhappy with or those who know what they want to change and are looking for guidance or new perspectives. Many clients come in with goals targeting their mental health and addiction, others are seeking changes in lifestyle or just need someone to listen. I am also available to provide evaluations as requested by clients, courts, or other entities! Happy to help! Reach out today!
(978) 301-8794 View (978) 301-8794
Photo of Aprel Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manchester, NH
Aprel Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03103
Aprel Davis is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2010. She has an MSW, Master of Divinity. Life and relationships are challenging to navigate in the best of times. Aprel can help guide you to utilize the tools you already have to build new skills to help you gain positive control over your life. Aprel has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Aprel Davis is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2010. She has an MSW, Master of Divinity. Life and relationships are challenging to navigate in the best of times. Aprel can help guide you to utilize the tools you already have to build new skills to help you gain positive control over your life. Aprel has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(888) 491-5017 View (888) 491-5017
Photo of Jessica Janus, Counselor in Manchester, NH
Jessica Janus
Counselor, LCHMC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102
Jessica Janus is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2018. She earned a Bachelor's in Psychology at Castleton University and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Antioch University New England. We all have a story. Jessica believes our stories and experiences deserve a trusting space to process free from judgment. Within the therapeutic relationship, Jessica aims to empower individuals to honor their stories with empathy through nuances of language and self-exploration.
Jessica Janus is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2018. She earned a Bachelor's in Psychology at Castleton University and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Antioch University New England. We all have a story. Jessica believes our stories and experiences deserve a trusting space to process free from judgment. Within the therapeutic relationship, Jessica aims to empower individuals to honor their stories with empathy through nuances of language and self-exploration.
(844) 714-3696 View (844) 714-3696
Photo of Matthew Kobs in Manchester, NH
Matthew Kobs
PsyD
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
Everyone has a story to tell, a thread that consciously or unconsciously guides his or her behavior, wants, and motivations. In my practice, I try to help people who have become unhappy with their current pattern of living and have begun to think about building a clearer understanding of who they are and who they feel they would like to "be." I work to build a mutual appreciation for each other's story. Having received extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral and Analytical Theory, I am able to provide an eclectic approach to working with a wide variety of clients' needs.
Everyone has a story to tell, a thread that consciously or unconsciously guides his or her behavior, wants, and motivations. In my practice, I try to help people who have become unhappy with their current pattern of living and have begun to think about building a clearer understanding of who they are and who they feel they would like to "be." I work to build a mutual appreciation for each other's story. Having received extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral and Analytical Theory, I am able to provide an eclectic approach to working with a wide variety of clients' needs.
(855) 805-4668 View (855) 805-4668
Photo of Fatma Salem, Counselor in Manchester, NH
Fatma Salem
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that human suffering happens when the way we live our lives falls out of alignment with our internal compass. We are inherently driven to self-actualize and become the best version possible of ourselves; however, the reality is that we live in a very complex world that often steers us away from what we value. We often fall into this trap and begin to chase what society deems valuable, while being convinced that it's our true calling. This behavioral pattern is often piloted by our anxieties and relational trauma, which is what I am most fluent in, as a fellow human first, and a therapist second.
I believe that human suffering happens when the way we live our lives falls out of alignment with our internal compass. We are inherently driven to self-actualize and become the best version possible of ourselves; however, the reality is that we live in a very complex world that often steers us away from what we value. We often fall into this trap and begin to chase what society deems valuable, while being convinced that it's our true calling. This behavioral pattern is often piloted by our anxieties and relational trauma, which is what I am most fluent in, as a fellow human first, and a therapist second.
(603) 810-7952 View (603) 810-7952
Photo of Alyson Little, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manchester, NH
Alyson Little
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
I value the therapeutic relationship and prioritize creating a safe space for all clients to be their authentic selves. As a client, therapy is self-care and your time to show up for you. As your therapist, I will show up with you and offer unconditional support to help you reach your goals. I believe change happens when we are uncomfortable and so, as your therapist, I will gently challenge you as a way to uncover the happiest and healthiest version of yourself.
I value the therapeutic relationship and prioritize creating a safe space for all clients to be their authentic selves. As a client, therapy is self-care and your time to show up for you. As your therapist, I will show up with you and offer unconditional support to help you reach your goals. I believe change happens when we are uncomfortable and so, as your therapist, I will gently challenge you as a way to uncover the happiest and healthiest version of yourself.
(978) 414-5397 View (978) 414-5397
Photo of Anna Coleman in Manchester, NH
Anna Coleman
MA, RDT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103
Do you ever feel like you are stuck in your own head? Logically you know one thing to be true, but emotionally you cannot embrace that truth? My professional interests include working with all ages and stages in areas of trauma recovery, recovery from abusive and/or narcissist-driven relationships, anxiety, and grief. Together, we can create your sacred therapeutic space and discover ways to play with previously unplayable matter.
Do you ever feel like you are stuck in your own head? Logically you know one thing to be true, but emotionally you cannot embrace that truth? My professional interests include working with all ages and stages in areas of trauma recovery, recovery from abusive and/or narcissist-driven relationships, anxiety, and grief. Together, we can create your sacred therapeutic space and discover ways to play with previously unplayable matter.
(603) 625-0010 View (603) 625-0010
Photo of Nia Normand Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manchester, NH
Nia Normand Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and parents to work through mental health issues and behavioral problems.
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and parents to work through mental health issues and behavioral problems.
(603) 525-7697 View (603) 525-7697
Photo of Luke Gagne Counseling &Life Coach, Counselor in Manchester, NH
Luke Gagne Counseling &Life Coach
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, BCC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03103
I provide counseling and coaching to those whose vision of their life purpose and direction has been blurred by self medicating painful experiences with alcohol and drugs, a DUI, overwhelming stress in their relationship or job, an episode of depression or anxiety, or the loss of a loved one. These are common issues and challenges that clients struggle with on their journey to live meaningful and satisfying lives. I have been privileged to assist clients in their journey As they regain awareness one day at a time of their life's purpose and direction.
I provide counseling and coaching to those whose vision of their life purpose and direction has been blurred by self medicating painful experiences with alcohol and drugs, a DUI, overwhelming stress in their relationship or job, an episode of depression or anxiety, or the loss of a loved one. These are common issues and challenges that clients struggle with on their journey to live meaningful and satisfying lives. I have been privileged to assist clients in their journey As they regain awareness one day at a time of their life's purpose and direction.
(734) 336-7450 View (734) 336-7450
Photo of Julie St.onge in Manchester, NH
Julie St.onge
RN BSN , CPC-c , ACSTH, C-SASI
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
I am a trauma informed life coach with a background in extensive nursing experience over 20 years. I have been trained in the psychotherapy of brainspotting. This therapy has been used with 911 victims and the Sandy Hook School shooting community to bring healing to those who have suffered from deep emotional trauma. it is also effective in treating: anxiety, depression, focus issues, trauma, performance anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, and addictions. I have extensive experience in this therapy and typically see results within 4 sessions. Most levels of struggle drop by half at that point.
I am a trauma informed life coach with a background in extensive nursing experience over 20 years. I have been trained in the psychotherapy of brainspotting. This therapy has been used with 911 victims and the Sandy Hook School shooting community to bring healing to those who have suffered from deep emotional trauma. it is also effective in treating: anxiety, depression, focus issues, trauma, performance anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, and addictions. I have extensive experience in this therapy and typically see results within 4 sessions. Most levels of struggle drop by half at that point.
(603) 931-4717 View (603) 931-4717
Photo of Emma Conant, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manchester, NH
Emma Conant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. Everyone is deserving of an experience of finally putting themselves first. You deserve a space to feel heard and accepted which is what I am here to do. I am here to provide you support, help you develop new skills to cope with trauma and/or everyday stressors, and hopefully help you make connections to find patterns in your story and your symptoms. You know yourself better than anyone, you will lead us in how you think, feel, and act which will then create an open dialogue between us where I may use evidence-based techniques from CBT, EMDR,ACT, DBT, & other trauma-focused modalities.
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. Everyone is deserving of an experience of finally putting themselves first. You deserve a space to feel heard and accepted which is what I am here to do. I am here to provide you support, help you develop new skills to cope with trauma and/or everyday stressors, and hopefully help you make connections to find patterns in your story and your symptoms. You know yourself better than anyone, you will lead us in how you think, feel, and act which will then create an open dialogue between us where I may use evidence-based techniques from CBT, EMDR,ACT, DBT, & other trauma-focused modalities.
(603) 696-4872 View (603) 696-4872
Photo of Nina DeMarco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manchester, NH
Nina DeMarco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
I have built a passion in supporting individuals to create their own sense of empowerment and resilience. I use a person - centered, trauma informed approach to support those who may be struggling with co - occurring disorders to include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. I most commonly use EMDR, in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and mindfulness. I strive to work collaboratively with each individual to determine what healing path will work best for them. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable space towards healing and lasting positive change.
I have built a passion in supporting individuals to create their own sense of empowerment and resilience. I use a person - centered, trauma informed approach to support those who may be struggling with co - occurring disorders to include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. I most commonly use EMDR, in conjunction with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and mindfulness. I strive to work collaboratively with each individual to determine what healing path will work best for them. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable space towards healing and lasting positive change.
(855) 305-2675 View (855) 305-2675
Photo of Katalyst Psychological Family Center LLC, Psychologist in Manchester, NH
Katalyst Psychological Family Center LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
We are licensed clinical mental health providers with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. We complete Neuropsychological Evaluations, and work with individuals and families who have parenting concerns, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ODD, and Autism.
We are licensed clinical mental health providers with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. We complete Neuropsychological Evaluations, and work with individuals and families who have parenting concerns, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ODD, and Autism.
(603) 206-5844 View (603) 206-5844
Photo of Yasmin Adam, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manchester, NH
Yasmin Adam
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
I'm a pre-licensed therapist in NH trained in EMDR. I specialize in combining evidence based interventions with holistic techniques to support a solution-focused approach in healing the mind, body, and spirit. This includes Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, reiki/energy healing, past life regression, somatic healing, meditation and hypnosis techniques. These techniques help me to navigate you through challenging healing work, so that you meet your goals and see symptoms improve.
I'm a pre-licensed therapist in NH trained in EMDR. I specialize in combining evidence based interventions with holistic techniques to support a solution-focused approach in healing the mind, body, and spirit. This includes Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, reiki/energy healing, past life regression, somatic healing, meditation and hypnosis techniques. These techniques help me to navigate you through challenging healing work, so that you meet your goals and see symptoms improve.
(603) 207-2105 x702 View (603) 207-2105 x702
Photo of Dina M Molina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manchester, NH
Dina M Molina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
My unique style of therapy is a Holistic Approach with conversational sessions where I offer a warm, compassionate, genuine approach to all of my clients. I combine talk therapy models such as CBT &Solution Focused Therapy. When working with adolescents & teens I create a rapport that supports healing by providing play therapy along with age appropriate talk therapy to understand challenges within their lives. When working with couples, I incorporate Gottman Methods, CBT & Solution Focused Therapy principals to allow partners to understand communication & attachment styles to help increase understanding & intimacy.
My unique style of therapy is a Holistic Approach with conversational sessions where I offer a warm, compassionate, genuine approach to all of my clients. I combine talk therapy models such as CBT &Solution Focused Therapy. When working with adolescents & teens I create a rapport that supports healing by providing play therapy along with age appropriate talk therapy to understand challenges within their lives. When working with couples, I incorporate Gottman Methods, CBT & Solution Focused Therapy principals to allow partners to understand communication & attachment styles to help increase understanding & intimacy.
(718) 550-8192 View (718) 550-8192
Photo of John Michael Spellacy, Counselor in Manchester, NH
John Michael Spellacy
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients. Everyone is at a crossroads during their life that they need to talk about issues that they struggle with. Whether it be loss of a love one, battling a substance use issue, a mood disorder or coping with an intellectual disability. Clients have a wide variety of issues that they are seeking to manage and to cope with in a better way. Many times a client is seeking someone to help them make sense out of something that, at least to them in the beginning, seems to be senseless. Answers and ways of moving their life into a forward motion is what many people seek in counseling.
Now accepting new clients. Everyone is at a crossroads during their life that they need to talk about issues that they struggle with. Whether it be loss of a love one, battling a substance use issue, a mood disorder or coping with an intellectual disability. Clients have a wide variety of issues that they are seeking to manage and to cope with in a better way. Many times a client is seeking someone to help them make sense out of something that, at least to them in the beginning, seems to be senseless. Answers and ways of moving their life into a forward motion is what many people seek in counseling.
(603) 709-4806 View (603) 709-4806
Photo of Denise Gaertner, Counselor in Manchester, NH
Denise Gaertner
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
I offer individual therapy to older adolescents and adults in a small private practice setting which allows me to personalize my service to you. I specialize in working with those who have problems as a result of having suffered trauma at some time in their lives, whether during childhood or more recently. I am able to offer help regulating difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety and anger. I can also work with you to strengthen your sense of self-worth and relationships with others. I most enjoy helping people gain greater self-knowledge for a more fulfilling life.
I offer individual therapy to older adolescents and adults in a small private practice setting which allows me to personalize my service to you. I specialize in working with those who have problems as a result of having suffered trauma at some time in their lives, whether during childhood or more recently. I am able to offer help regulating difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety and anger. I can also work with you to strengthen your sense of self-worth and relationships with others. I most enjoy helping people gain greater self-knowledge for a more fulfilling life.
(603) 685-3705 View (603) 685-3705

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Manchester, NH

300+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Manchester, NH who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
67% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Manchester, NH see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Manchester?

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.