Therapists in Prospect, KY

Photo of Jessica Gibo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Gibo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
Life is complicated. Stress is inevitable. I can help you get your feet back on the ground and move forward. I work with individuals, couples and families to make small changes that can make a big difference. I work with Teens through end of life. I especially work well with issues like OCD, Addiction, ADHD, thought disorders, grief, and those with chronic or complex health issues. As your therapist I will work with you to find your sources of strength, resources to help support you and continually check in with you to make sure you are getting what you need. With safety, compassion and support you can heal.
Life is complicated. Stress is inevitable. I can help you get your feet back on the ground and move forward. I work with individuals, couples and families to make small changes that can make a big difference. I work with Teens through end of life. I especially work well with issues like OCD, Addiction, ADHD, thought disorders, grief, and those with chronic or complex health issues. As your therapist I will work with you to find your sources of strength, resources to help support you and continually check in with you to make sure you are getting what you need. With safety, compassion and support you can heal.
(502) 586-4096 View (502) 586-4096
Photo of Elizabeth B. Walden - GrowthPoint360, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
GrowthPoint360
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I offer a supportive, thoughtful space grounded in unconditional positive regard, where exploration, growth, and lasting change can unfold safely. Our sessions are collaborative and individualized, shaped by your unique goals, challenges, and strengths. There are no “right” or “wrong” ways to be—only patterns that move you toward what matters and those that don’t. We’ll approach the work with curiosity, practicality, and even humor, building insight, confidence, and grounded self-awareness. You are the expert on you; my role is to support, challenge, and catalyze growth—so the best of you shows up, everywhere.
I offer a supportive, thoughtful space grounded in unconditional positive regard, where exploration, growth, and lasting change can unfold safely. Our sessions are collaborative and individualized, shaped by your unique goals, challenges, and strengths. There are no “right” or “wrong” ways to be—only patterns that move you toward what matters and those that don’t. We’ll approach the work with curiosity, practicality, and even humor, building insight, confidence, and grounded self-awareness. You are the expert on you; my role is to support, challenge, and catalyze growth—so the best of you shows up, everywhere.
(502) 806-2337 View (502) 806-2337
Photo of Brandon Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Brandon Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
I help people find hope and relief from distress created by life circumstances and relationships. Together we can work on establishing healthy emotional, psychological and relational rhythms and boundaries as a part of healing and growth. It is my strong belief that all people have access to the power of hope and compassion as means to live out a better story.
I help people find hope and relief from distress created by life circumstances and relationships. Together we can work on establishing healthy emotional, psychological and relational rhythms and boundaries as a part of healing and growth. It is my strong belief that all people have access to the power of hope and compassion as means to live out a better story.
(502) 230-1901 View (502) 230-1901
Photo of Gabrielle Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gabrielle Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Prospect, KY 40059
Beneath every behavior there is a feeling. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, teenagers and their families on the idea of how thoughts and feelings influence behaviors, and the control they can have over those behaviors. My goal is to connect clients with appropriate coping skills and tools to defeat negative thoughts, take control of their emotions, and improve their communication with others.
Beneath every behavior there is a feeling. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, teenagers and their families on the idea of how thoughts and feelings influence behaviors, and the control they can have over those behaviors. My goal is to connect clients with appropriate coping skills and tools to defeat negative thoughts, take control of their emotions, and improve their communication with others.
(502) 906-6644 View (502) 906-6644
Photo of Christy Weber - Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Prospect, KY 40059
Anthem BCBS: Several of our providers are now in-network! Welcome to Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio! Our compassionate providers offer counseling & medication management services for children, adults, couples & families with a specialty in preconception, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting support. We also help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions & more. In addition, we have a contract with Oldham County Schools to provide in-school sessions. Reach out today to get more information or schedule an appointment!
Anthem BCBS: Several of our providers are now in-network! Welcome to Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio! Our compassionate providers offer counseling & medication management services for children, adults, couples & families with a specialty in preconception, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting support. We also help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions & more. In addition, we have a contract with Oldham County Schools to provide in-school sessions. Reach out today to get more information or schedule an appointment!
(502) 661-6028 View (502) 661-6028
Photo of Ann Young - Ann Young Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Ann Young Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you in perimenopause or postpartum? Medical trauma? Perhaps experiencing a divorce, scared or over-worked? I'm here for you. Maybe it's loss, loneliness, shame, frustration as a parent, betrayal, or feeling disconnected from who you truly are. Or something you can't quite put your finger on. Let's figure this out together. I'm a trauma therapist with extensive training and know I can help you. Text me and let's connect: 502-323-0015. I see adult women, virtually, from all over Kentucky, especially in Bowling Green, Louisville, Lexington and Owensboro.
Are you in perimenopause or postpartum? Medical trauma? Perhaps experiencing a divorce, scared or over-worked? I'm here for you. Maybe it's loss, loneliness, shame, frustration as a parent, betrayal, or feeling disconnected from who you truly are. Or something you can't quite put your finger on. Let's figure this out together. I'm a trauma therapist with extensive training and know I can help you. Text me and let's connect: 502-323-0015. I see adult women, virtually, from all over Kentucky, especially in Bowling Green, Louisville, Lexington and Owensboro.
(270) 512-0997 View (270) 512-0997
Photo of Dr. Jamie Brodarick, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Jamie Brodarick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
For over 18 years, I have helped clients improve their most important relationships. I have found that when we experience conflict, communication challenges, a lack of emotional/physical intimacy, or have unmet needs, we can struggle to feel complete. Whether I am working with an individual client, a couple, or an entire family system, I can support you in strengthening your intimate relationships. I specialize in maternal mental health (infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum), premarital and marital counseling, parent-child interactions, and extended family (in-laws, siblings, and family of origin) dynamics.
For over 18 years, I have helped clients improve their most important relationships. I have found that when we experience conflict, communication challenges, a lack of emotional/physical intimacy, or have unmet needs, we can struggle to feel complete. Whether I am working with an individual client, a couple, or an entire family system, I can support you in strengthening your intimate relationships. I specialize in maternal mental health (infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum), premarital and marital counseling, parent-child interactions, and extended family (in-laws, siblings, and family of origin) dynamics.
(502) 236-5075 View (502) 236-5075
Photo of Charlie Marshall, Art Therapist, ATR-BC , LPAT
Charlie Marshall
Art Therapist, ATR-BC , LPAT
Prospect, KY 40059
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, stress and grief is all too common today. Therapy with me will help with communication, coping skills and processing experiences verbally and non-verbally in a safe and nurturing way. Imagine a different perspective on your thoughts and feelings so you can visualize an reach your goals. I've helped clients face Depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, substance use, grief, adjustment disorders and mental health issues. I would feel privileged to be part of your recovery and self discovery. I take feeling safe and your confidentiality seriously.
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, stress and grief is all too common today. Therapy with me will help with communication, coping skills and processing experiences verbally and non-verbally in a safe and nurturing way. Imagine a different perspective on your thoughts and feelings so you can visualize an reach your goals. I've helped clients face Depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, substance use, grief, adjustment disorders and mental health issues. I would feel privileged to be part of your recovery and self discovery. I take feeling safe and your confidentiality seriously.
(502) 289-6379 View (502) 289-6379
Photo of Haley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Haley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
You are overwhelmed, overtired, and so used to taking care of everyone else that you don't know how to even take care of yourself anymore. It seems like everyone depends on you for every little thing anymore, but deep down you want to be left alone before you fall apart. You know a change needs to happen, but you don't know where to begin. Take that first step of reaching out to me for support, and we can figure out the next steps together.
You are overwhelmed, overtired, and so used to taking care of everyone else that you don't know how to even take care of yourself anymore. It seems like everyone depends on you for every little thing anymore, but deep down you want to be left alone before you fall apart. You know a change needs to happen, but you don't know where to begin. Take that first step of reaching out to me for support, and we can figure out the next steps together.
(859) 203-1253 View (859) 203-1253
Photo of Courtney Morgan, LPCC-S
Courtney Morgan
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
Feeling overwhelmed by relentless self-criticism, anxiety, or the weight of feeling like you're never enough? I am here to support you along your journey of remembering your purpose, releasing unhelpful internal narratives, and reinforcing your inherent value along the way. Reserving an intake session with me is the first, most powerful step on your therapy journey.
Feeling overwhelmed by relentless self-criticism, anxiety, or the weight of feeling like you're never enough? I am here to support you along your journey of remembering your purpose, releasing unhelpful internal narratives, and reinforcing your inherent value along the way. Reserving an intake session with me is the first, most powerful step on your therapy journey.
(502) 677-3249 View (502) 677-3249
Photo of Melanie Kim Summers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Melanie Kim Summers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Prospect, KY 40059
Do you struggle with regulating your emotions, overwhelm, C-PTSD/PTSD, grief, or a loss of a sense of who you are that is affecting your relationships and/or your ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated with getting through the day. Do you feel you have put in the work to heal, but there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question if life could be more easeful and less stressful? Now more than ever we are talking about how our mental health affects not only our minds but our bodies and relationships, ultimately affecting our abilities to feel joy.
Do you struggle with regulating your emotions, overwhelm, C-PTSD/PTSD, grief, or a loss of a sense of who you are that is affecting your relationships and/or your ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated with getting through the day. Do you feel you have put in the work to heal, but there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question if life could be more easeful and less stressful? Now more than ever we are talking about how our mental health affects not only our minds but our bodies and relationships, ultimately affecting our abilities to feel joy.
(502) 289-6569 View (502) 289-6569
Photo of Whitney Bozarth, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Whitney Bozarth
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
1 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
You look like you have it together, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally numb. You overthink, people-please, and carry responsibility for others while your own needs go unmet. You may feel stuck in shame, guilt, fear, or painful relationship patterns. You may be healing from religious/spiritual trauma or leadership pressure. You want internal peace, self-trust, healthy boundaries, and connection that doesn’t require you to always be “okay."
You look like you have it together, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally numb. You overthink, people-please, and carry responsibility for others while your own needs go unmet. You may feel stuck in shame, guilt, fear, or painful relationship patterns. You may be healing from religious/spiritual trauma or leadership pressure. You want internal peace, self-trust, healthy boundaries, and connection that doesn’t require you to always be “okay."
(502) 317-2855 View (502) 317-2855
Photo of Justin Goff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Justin Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Break the generational cycles that compromise your clarity and presence. I provide a framework to navigate the 'unwritten rules'—the inherited expectations and family scripts—that drive burnout. We move beyond venting into a structured roadmap, designed to optimize your mental capacity for your family, your career, and your future stewardship. This approach is for those who feels the weight of performance and expectations. We focus on Relational Integrity: the ability to be the person you want to be even when the pressure is high.
Break the generational cycles that compromise your clarity and presence. I provide a framework to navigate the 'unwritten rules'—the inherited expectations and family scripts—that drive burnout. We move beyond venting into a structured roadmap, designed to optimize your mental capacity for your family, your career, and your future stewardship. This approach is for those who feels the weight of performance and expectations. We focus on Relational Integrity: the ability to be the person you want to be even when the pressure is high.
(502) 443-7211 View (502) 443-7211
Photo of Monica DuShane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Monica DuShane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Clinical Social Worker who holds licenses in eight states. I have over 18 years of experience as a social worker and over 9 years of providing therapy. I have experience in assisting adult clients with stress & anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, isolation & loneliness, serious illness, aging and geriatric issues, end-of-life counseling, and coping with grief and loss.
I am a Clinical Social Worker who holds licenses in eight states. I have over 18 years of experience as a social worker and over 9 years of providing therapy. I have experience in assisting adult clients with stress & anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, isolation & loneliness, serious illness, aging and geriatric issues, end-of-life counseling, and coping with grief and loss.
(502) 308-4157 View (502) 308-4157
Photo of Jessica Gibo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Gibo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Prospect, KY 40059
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in Kentucky. I have over 13 years of experience in healthcare and mental health. I work with individuals, families, and couples across the life span. I typically see clients ages 14 and above. I have had success with short term (3-5 sessions) and long term (weekly or bi-weekly) therapy sessions. I provide couples counseling services as a Prepare and Enrich provider, and a Gottman-informed therapist. I also offer Premarital Counseling services. I offer assessments and will work with you to advocate for your individual needs with your medical providers, workplace or school.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in Kentucky. I have over 13 years of experience in healthcare and mental health. I work with individuals, families, and couples across the life span. I typically see clients ages 14 and above. I have had success with short term (3-5 sessions) and long term (weekly or bi-weekly) therapy sessions. I provide couples counseling services as a Prepare and Enrich provider, and a Gottman-informed therapist. I also offer Premarital Counseling services. I offer assessments and will work with you to advocate for your individual needs with your medical providers, workplace or school.
(502) 673-1846 View (502) 673-1846
Photo of Christy Marie Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christy Marie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Prospect, KY 40059
I became a therapist to help others. More importantly, to assist others in learning to help themselves. This is especially true with adolescents, young adults and their families. We can often be both the reasons for and products of poorly functioning family environments. I enjoy getting to know teens, adults and families as we identify their shared goals and needs. My best days come when clients and families laugh more than they cry, love more than they fight and succeed more than they struggle. With better knowledge, skills and communication, we can create more positive environments for yourselves and others
I became a therapist to help others. More importantly, to assist others in learning to help themselves. This is especially true with adolescents, young adults and their families. We can often be both the reasons for and products of poorly functioning family environments. I enjoy getting to know teens, adults and families as we identify their shared goals and needs. My best days come when clients and families laugh more than they cry, love more than they fight and succeed more than they struggle. With better knowledge, skills and communication, we can create more positive environments for yourselves and others
(502) 514-0576 View (502) 514-0576
Photo of Ashley Kash, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Kash
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Prospect, KY 40059
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Ashley Kash a counselor-in-training currently completing my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Kentucky. I believe that therapy is a powerful space for self-exploration, healing, and growth, and I strive to create an environment that feels warm, collaborative, and empowering. My goal is to help clients feel seen, heard, and equipped with tools that support their unique healing process. I aim to bring curiosity, empathy, and a deep commitment to connection into each session, and I value authenticity in the therapeutic relationship.
Hi, I’m Ashley Kash a counselor-in-training currently completing my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Kentucky. I believe that therapy is a powerful space for self-exploration, healing, and growth, and I strive to create an environment that feels warm, collaborative, and empowering. My goal is to help clients feel seen, heard, and equipped with tools that support their unique healing process. I aim to bring curiosity, empathy, and a deep commitment to connection into each session, and I value authenticity in the therapeutic relationship.
(502) 218-3510 View (502) 218-3510
Photo of Jessica Ann VanBuren Curtis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Ann VanBuren Curtis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I work with adults who are moving through grief, loss, and life transitions—especially those who’ve lost a loved one or are supporting someone at the end of life. You may feel overwhelmed, unsure how to carry the weight of what’s happened, or like others don’t fully understand what you’re going through. I’m here for people who are ready to be honest, even when it’s hard, and who want a steady, compassionate space to sort through emotions, make sense of their experience, and begin to find their footing again.
I work with adults who are moving through grief, loss, and life transitions—especially those who’ve lost a loved one or are supporting someone at the end of life. You may feel overwhelmed, unsure how to carry the weight of what’s happened, or like others don’t fully understand what you’re going through. I’m here for people who are ready to be honest, even when it’s hard, and who want a steady, compassionate space to sort through emotions, make sense of their experience, and begin to find their footing again.
(502) 837-7912 View (502) 837-7912
Photo of Jack Justin Dreher, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LPCMHSP, NCC
Jack Justin Dreher
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LPCMHSP, NCC
Online Only
Starting therapy isn’t easy—you may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in your life and relationships. I provide a safe, respectful, and supportive space where you can explore yourself honestly while being challenged to grow. I help you better understand your patterns, build practical skills, and create meaningful change. My approach integrates trauma-informed DBT with psychodynamic, existential, and cognitive behavioral therapies, balancing deep insight with real-world tools so that your progress actually lasts.
Starting therapy isn’t easy—you may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in your life and relationships. I provide a safe, respectful, and supportive space where you can explore yourself honestly while being challenged to grow. I help you better understand your patterns, build practical skills, and create meaningful change. My approach integrates trauma-informed DBT with psychodynamic, existential, and cognitive behavioral therapies, balancing deep insight with real-world tools so that your progress actually lasts.
(502) 754-3429 View (502) 754-3429
Photo of Barbara Beauchamp, Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Barbara Beauchamp
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
There are times when a person simply needs a sanctuary in which one can focus on what is working and not working in life. Therapy is an ideal place for this type of reflection. Therapy is also an active process that requires considerable patience, empathy, and a willingness to explore those parts of ourselves that require some attention and perhaps even need to change. I believe that you hold within yourself the capacity for change, and I am very willing to journey with you as a guide toward a more healthy and peaceful way of being.
There are times when a person simply needs a sanctuary in which one can focus on what is working and not working in life. Therapy is an ideal place for this type of reflection. Therapy is also an active process that requires considerable patience, empathy, and a willingness to explore those parts of ourselves that require some attention and perhaps even need to change. I believe that you hold within yourself the capacity for change, and I am very willing to journey with you as a guide toward a more healthy and peaceful way of being.
(502) 324-3750 View (502) 324-3750

See more therapy options for Prospect

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Prospect, KY

90+

Average cost per session

$147

Therapists in Prospect, KY who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
92% Social Anxiety
92% Health Anxiety
92% Driving Anxiety
82% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
72% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
64% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% Aetna

How Therapists in Prospect, KY see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
14% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Prospect?

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.