Therapists in Marietta, GA

Photo of Shelly D Daniel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Shelly D Daniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
Helping individuals and couples learn skills that result in useful thinking, mindful living and healthy relationships is deeply satisfying to me. I enjoy working with couples who are either preparing for marriage, strengthening their connection or hoping to restore trust and wholeness. I also work well with individuals who recognize a need for change and are willing to try new ways of thinking and behaving.
Helping individuals and couples learn skills that result in useful thinking, mindful living and healthy relationships is deeply satisfying to me. I enjoy working with couples who are either preparing for marriage, strengthening their connection or hoping to restore trust and wholeness. I also work well with individuals who recognize a need for change and are willing to try new ways of thinking and behaving.
(678) 846-3246 View (678) 846-3246
Photo of Katie Noll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Katie Noll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCISM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
My therapeutic style is empathetic, energetic, relatable, approachable, and passionate. I know therapy can be scary, so I try to create a safe and positive environment. Clients will feel that I’m truly in their corner while not shying away from pointing out blind spots to aid in their growth. My ideal patient is someone who truly wants to break cycles, heal, and do the work to feel better holistically.
My therapeutic style is empathetic, energetic, relatable, approachable, and passionate. I know therapy can be scary, so I try to create a safe and positive environment. Clients will feel that I’m truly in their corner while not shying away from pointing out blind spots to aid in their growth. My ideal patient is someone who truly wants to break cycles, heal, and do the work to feel better holistically.
(470) 802-2787 View (470) 802-2787
Photo of Mackenzie Suttles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Mackenzie Suttles
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
We all want to feel heard and express ourselves in a way that feels comfortable. For some, it may not solely be through verbal communication. I enjoy working alongside my clients to establish a therapeutic relationship that provides a foundation to identify goals and move toward them together utilizing mindfulness, skill building and person-centered talk therapy as appropriate. I focus on each individuals journey and meeting the individual where they are.
We all want to feel heard and express ourselves in a way that feels comfortable. For some, it may not solely be through verbal communication. I enjoy working alongside my clients to establish a therapeutic relationship that provides a foundation to identify goals and move toward them together utilizing mindfulness, skill building and person-centered talk therapy as appropriate. I focus on each individuals journey and meeting the individual where they are.
(678) 336-6835 View (678) 336-6835
Photo of Amanda L Marks | Emdr Intensives, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Amanda L Marks | Emdr Intensives
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
Are you ready to feel like something is actually changing as a result of therapy? Are you ready to heal from the root instead of just "faking it until you make it?" Tired of numbing yourself with work, alcohol and other distractions and start being present in your life? And in turn being more present in your relationships with your partner, friends, and children?
Are you ready to feel like something is actually changing as a result of therapy? Are you ready to heal from the root instead of just "faking it until you make it?" Tired of numbing yourself with work, alcohol and other distractions and start being present in your life? And in turn being more present in your relationships with your partner, friends, and children?
(678) 616-9157 View (678) 616-9157
Photo of Meschelle King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Meschelle King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
Hello! By looking for help online you have taken the first step to a deeper understanding of all the emotions you experience in your mind and body. Depression and anxiety can affect your physical well-being. I can help you learn the skills to manage your emotions in a less disruptive manner.
Hello! By looking for help online you have taken the first step to a deeper understanding of all the emotions you experience in your mind and body. Depression and anxiety can affect your physical well-being. I can help you learn the skills to manage your emotions in a less disruptive manner.
(404) 227-4312 View (404) 227-4312
Photo of Lyndey Caddell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Lyndey Caddell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Utilizing a person centered approach for navigating your life makes the most sense to me! I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, and I am passionate about helping people navigate traumas, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, work stress, health challenges, self-esteem, and self-exploration related to sexual orientations and gender identities. I truly enjoy empowering each client in their exploration of finding peace and acceptance.
Utilizing a person centered approach for navigating your life makes the most sense to me! I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, and I am passionate about helping people navigate traumas, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, work stress, health challenges, self-esteem, and self-exploration related to sexual orientations and gender identities. I truly enjoy empowering each client in their exploration of finding peace and acceptance.
(706) 425-8900 x727 View (706) 425-8900 x727
Photo of Innovations in Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Innovations in Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
Are you living your best life? Do you even know what that might look like? How do you really feel behind the profile pics and hashtags? Are you in need of connection, support, motivation or tools to help you figure it all out? You are not alone and change is possible. Innovations in Counseling works hard with you, drawing out your strengths and making sure that you walk away equipped to conquer your life, your demons and your goals. Individual and couples therapy is available for GA, IN and VA residence. Pre-marital and marital counseling, life coaching and Consulting is available everywhere.
Are you living your best life? Do you even know what that might look like? How do you really feel behind the profile pics and hashtags? Are you in need of connection, support, motivation or tools to help you figure it all out? You are not alone and change is possible. Innovations in Counseling works hard with you, drawing out your strengths and making sure that you walk away equipped to conquer your life, your demons and your goals. Individual and couples therapy is available for GA, IN and VA residence. Pre-marital and marital counseling, life coaching and Consulting is available everywhere.
(770) 285-1543 View (770) 285-1543
Photo of Aleah Morrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Aleah Morrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
I am a graduate of Auburn University and received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have 20 years of counseling experience. My practice is an outpatient, private practice located on Kennesaw Avenue in Marietta. Office hours are by appointment, and most appointments are 45-minutes. I offer services to individuals for a wide range of issues or situations. My services may be covered in part by your health insurance. I am on most insurance panels.
I am a graduate of Auburn University and received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have 20 years of counseling experience. My practice is an outpatient, private practice located on Kennesaw Avenue in Marietta. Office hours are by appointment, and most appointments are 45-minutes. I offer services to individuals for a wide range of issues or situations. My services may be covered in part by your health insurance. I am on most insurance panels.
(678) 374-2923 View (678) 374-2923
Photo of Silas Wheeler, LPC Intern in Marietta, GA
Silas Wheeler
LPC Intern, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
I am a counselor working with clients ranging in age from adolescents to adults. I work with clients focusing on a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, navigating relationships, neurodivergence, life transitions, and with those who are feeling lost in life.
I am a counselor working with clients ranging in age from adolescents to adults. I work with clients focusing on a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, navigating relationships, neurodivergence, life transitions, and with those who are feeling lost in life.
(678) 679-7064 View (678) 679-7064
Photo of Emma Rowell, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Marietta, GA
Emma Rowell
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
“To be human is to need others, and this is no flaw or weakness.” –Dr. Sue Johnson. I believe we all have unique and complex stories that revolve around the important relationships in our lives. Unraveling these stories can often feel overwhelming, so I aim to create a calm and accepting atmosphere to help you feel safe identifying and addressing your concerns, as well as cultivating your strengths. Our work together could be brief and focus on a few distinct issues, or it could be longer-term and focus on processing deeper concerns.
“To be human is to need others, and this is no flaw or weakness.” –Dr. Sue Johnson. I believe we all have unique and complex stories that revolve around the important relationships in our lives. Unraveling these stories can often feel overwhelming, so I aim to create a calm and accepting atmosphere to help you feel safe identifying and addressing your concerns, as well as cultivating your strengths. Our work together could be brief and focus on a few distinct issues, or it could be longer-term and focus on processing deeper concerns.
(678) 922-4273 View (678) 922-4273
Photo of Michelle T. Rhue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Michelle T. Rhue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever felt off track? Imbalanced? Lost a sense of direction? Or after experiencing so many changes in life, you just don't recognize who you are anymore? It's not uncommon. Yet, it can feel overwhelming and lonely. In therapy, I can assist you with finding balance. I can help you overcome the negative thinking/behavioral patterns, relationship issues, and past problematic experiences that have led to the struggle to cope with life's challenges. My primary focus is on empowering clients to achieve healthy self-awareness, develop positive relationships, and build progressive coping skills towards positive change.
Have you ever felt off track? Imbalanced? Lost a sense of direction? Or after experiencing so many changes in life, you just don't recognize who you are anymore? It's not uncommon. Yet, it can feel overwhelming and lonely. In therapy, I can assist you with finding balance. I can help you overcome the negative thinking/behavioral patterns, relationship issues, and past problematic experiences that have led to the struggle to cope with life's challenges. My primary focus is on empowering clients to achieve healthy self-awareness, develop positive relationships, and build progressive coping skills towards positive change.
(470) 297-6071 View (470) 297-6071
Photo of Anne S. Mayfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Anne S. Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
(404) 982-4403 View (404) 982-4403
Photo of Jenna Elliott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Jenna Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
Making the decision to reach out for counseling can be a scary step to take, but it is often times the first step towards a healthy and happy life. You could be struggeling with a broken relationship, life stressors, loss/grief, depression, anxiety, or perhaps you can't describe how you feel, but you know it's just not "right". As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and warm environment for you to share your story with me, to work together to set goals, and to set off on a path towards healing and wholeness.
Making the decision to reach out for counseling can be a scary step to take, but it is often times the first step towards a healthy and happy life. You could be struggeling with a broken relationship, life stressors, loss/grief, depression, anxiety, or perhaps you can't describe how you feel, but you know it's just not "right". As a counselor, my goal is to provide a safe and warm environment for you to share your story with me, to work together to set goals, and to set off on a path towards healing and wholeness.
(404) 236-6102 View (404) 236-6102
Photo of Scott Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Scott Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Family dynamics can be stressful! Certified as a Prepare-Enrich and Level III Gottman Therapist, Scott works with couples, married or not, to build a healthy foundation & improve overall family relationships for the couple and with kids. With the "Prepare and Enrich" system, he uses a comprehensive assessment to evaluate a couple's strengths and weaknesses while the Gottman philosophy helps improve communication, appreciation, and empathy. Scott earned a BS in Psychology and a Master's in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and has worked in a clinical environment and private practice for over 10 yrs.
Family dynamics can be stressful! Certified as a Prepare-Enrich and Level III Gottman Therapist, Scott works with couples, married or not, to build a healthy foundation & improve overall family relationships for the couple and with kids. With the "Prepare and Enrich" system, he uses a comprehensive assessment to evaluate a couple's strengths and weaknesses while the Gottman philosophy helps improve communication, appreciation, and empathy. Scott earned a BS in Psychology and a Master's in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and has worked in a clinical environment and private practice for over 10 yrs.
(770) 464-5978 View (770) 464-5978
Photo of Leisa A Bailey, Psychologist in Marietta, GA
Leisa A Bailey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
You may be reluctant to contact a therapist believing you should be able to solve life's problems without help. That is not necessary!! All of us, with complicated and stressful lives can have struggles. Therapy can help you learn the skills you have not had a chance to develop. Psychotherapy can help when sadness or anxiey is interfering with your happiness and can help identify the obstacles that interfere with you reaching your goals. Additionally, your marriage and family relationships can improve greatly with therapy by helping you develop better communication skills and understand the underlying issues.
You may be reluctant to contact a therapist believing you should be able to solve life's problems without help. That is not necessary!! All of us, with complicated and stressful lives can have struggles. Therapy can help you learn the skills you have not had a chance to develop. Psychotherapy can help when sadness or anxiey is interfering with your happiness and can help identify the obstacles that interfere with you reaching your goals. Additionally, your marriage and family relationships can improve greatly with therapy by helping you develop better communication skills and understand the underlying issues.
(770) 428-6698 View (770) 428-6698
Photo of Elana M Klemm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Elana M Klemm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
How do you handle stress? Do you suffer from Anxiety? Grief? Depression? Divorce Issues? Codependency? Is your marriage under stress? Infertility? Bi-Polar? Poor Self-Esteem? Feel Bullied at School? Suicidal Ideation? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I work with Adolescents, Adults, Individuals, Couples, and Groups. I see people as unique individuals, each one requiring different interventions and techniques. I am patient and sensitive to your needs and I am committed to helping you along your path. I apply a number of theories and modes of treatment in my practice to best suit individual needs.
How do you handle stress? Do you suffer from Anxiety? Grief? Depression? Divorce Issues? Codependency? Is your marriage under stress? Infertility? Bi-Polar? Poor Self-Esteem? Feel Bullied at School? Suicidal Ideation? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I work with Adolescents, Adults, Individuals, Couples, and Groups. I see people as unique individuals, each one requiring different interventions and techniques. I am patient and sensitive to your needs and I am committed to helping you along your path. I apply a number of theories and modes of treatment in my practice to best suit individual needs.
(404) 491-8814 View (404) 491-8814
Photo of Ann Guzman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Ann Guzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
*Intensively Trained DBT Therapist* Deciding to begin therapy can be an anxiety provoking decision. That is why I provide an ease about coming to therapy and attempt to make my clients feel comfortable beginning this process. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults helping them get through difficult transitions in their lives. I do a lot of work challenging people to explore their aggression, self-harming behaviors, drugs and alcohol use, suicidal ideations, depression and anxiety. I also enjoy working with adults dealing with life transitions and helping them improve their moods and perspectives on life.
*Intensively Trained DBT Therapist* Deciding to begin therapy can be an anxiety provoking decision. That is why I provide an ease about coming to therapy and attempt to make my clients feel comfortable beginning this process. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults helping them get through difficult transitions in their lives. I do a lot of work challenging people to explore their aggression, self-harming behaviors, drugs and alcohol use, suicidal ideations, depression and anxiety. I also enjoy working with adults dealing with life transitions and helping them improve their moods and perspectives on life.
(678) 733-9172 View (678) 733-9172
Photo of Keir Brady, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marietta, GA
Keir Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
(404) 341-4163 View (404) 341-4163
Photo of Phil Zaffos, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Phil Zaffos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
Safety. Honesty. Freedom. Come as you are. I believe in creating a safe atmosphere without judgment, allowing you to freely come for the help you want and deserve. In this safety, we will journey together honestly to the root of these burdens facing you, seeking healing and insight in order to create true and lasting freedom in your life. Every person is different and therefore the process for each will be unique. Knowing this, I enjoy helping each person by adapting to his or her personality and comfort zone in order to make the process the most effective and fulfilling.
Safety. Honesty. Freedom. Come as you are. I believe in creating a safe atmosphere without judgment, allowing you to freely come for the help you want and deserve. In this safety, we will journey together honestly to the root of these burdens facing you, seeking healing and insight in order to create true and lasting freedom in your life. Every person is different and therefore the process for each will be unique. Knowing this, I enjoy helping each person by adapting to his or her personality and comfort zone in order to make the process the most effective and fulfilling.
(678) 374-2842 View (678) 374-2842
Photo of Dana Frederick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marietta, GA
Dana Frederick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
Not accepting new clients
Couples often experience the frustration of being stuck in a pattern of having the same conflicts over and over. The vision of loving one person for a lifetime seems easy in the early stages of love. But, when the inevitable stress of life comes, you may find yourself questioning the decision to be together. Many couples today know they want better relationships than their own parents had, but need role models and help building lasting marriages. You are not alone.
Couples often experience the frustration of being stuck in a pattern of having the same conflicts over and over. The vision of loving one person for a lifetime seems easy in the early stages of love. But, when the inevitable stress of life comes, you may find yourself questioning the decision to be together. Many couples today know they want better relationships than their own parents had, but need role models and help building lasting marriages. You are not alone.
(678) 257-4513 View (678) 257-4513

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Marietta, GA

900+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Marietta, GA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
67% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Marietta, GA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Marietta?

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.