Therapists in Annapolis, MD

Photo of Melanie Joyce Coates, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Melanie Joyce Coates
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Your life is spinning out of control and you’re about to crash. You’ve tried everything, but you’re overwhelmed and struggling to find balance. You’re confused, anxious, numb, and emotional and don’t even know why. You probably feel ashamed that you feel this way, but no one knows that. You’re a Christian and you know we’re supposed to have it together, but for you it’s different. Life has left you heartbroken, your spirit shattered, and you feel like God has forgotten you.
Your life is spinning out of control and you’re about to crash. You’ve tried everything, but you’re overwhelmed and struggling to find balance. You’re confused, anxious, numb, and emotional and don’t even know why. You probably feel ashamed that you feel this way, but no one knows that. You’re a Christian and you know we’re supposed to have it together, but for you it’s different. Life has left you heartbroken, your spirit shattered, and you feel like God has forgotten you.
(301) 381-1910 View (301) 381-1910
Photo of Mark C Good, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Mark C Good
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Dr. Good specializes in marital therapy. He is a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work and has worked with couples, families & individuals in the Annapolis community since 1978. Marriage work is about repair: to hear, be honest, build a team, rebuild trust & deepen intimacy. We find our way to do marriage - not my way or your way. Everyone is precious, worthy, broken & competent (in some areas). Everyone walks through life a little differently. The person is more important than the problem. In individual work I help you hear where you are coming from. When you know the impact on you & others, you make a better decision.
Dr. Good specializes in marital therapy. He is a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work and has worked with couples, families & individuals in the Annapolis community since 1978. Marriage work is about repair: to hear, be honest, build a team, rebuild trust & deepen intimacy. We find our way to do marriage - not my way or your way. Everyone is precious, worthy, broken & competent (in some areas). Everyone walks through life a little differently. The person is more important than the problem. In individual work I help you hear where you are coming from. When you know the impact on you & others, you make a better decision.
(410) 489-1557 View (410) 489-1557
Photo of Eric Weinstein in Annapolis, MD
Eric Weinstein
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Want to change your life, but not sure about (or done with) conventional therapy? Want less talk and more action? A holistic approach? I combine coaching, energetic, and therapeutic techniques to help clients solve problems by quickly figuring out what's keeping them from getting what they want out of life, "healing" the past, and changing limiting beliefs, troubling emotions, and unwanted behaviors. Clients (including therapists) describe me as "compassionate, knowledgeable, dedicated, perceptive, productive. . . " And while I don't take insurance, I try to be affordable to anyone who thinks I might be right for them.
Want to change your life, but not sure about (or done with) conventional therapy? Want less talk and more action? A holistic approach? I combine coaching, energetic, and therapeutic techniques to help clients solve problems by quickly figuring out what's keeping them from getting what they want out of life, "healing" the past, and changing limiting beliefs, troubling emotions, and unwanted behaviors. Clients (including therapists) describe me as "compassionate, knowledgeable, dedicated, perceptive, productive. . . " And while I don't take insurance, I try to be affordable to anyone who thinks I might be right for them.
(240) 201-2733 View (240) 201-2733
Photo of Ida L Walsch in Annapolis, MD
Ida L Walsch
MA, CAC-AD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am offering in-person sessions for those who have been vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic
I am offering in-person sessions for those who have been vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic
(410) 936-4002 View (410) 936-4002
Photo of Casey Gunther, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Casey Gunther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
You are longing for a better and more fulfilling life, yet there is something standing in your way. Depression and/or anxiety can feel overwhelming, debilitating, and out of control. They can impair your daily life and inhibit you from functioning at your full potential. It is my goal to help you realize your strengths, and utilize them in order to create the life that you desire. Together, we will grow your skill set so that you can make positive changes and cope with the difficult aspects of life. I will provide you with a compassionate, warm, non-judgemental, and confidential space in order to evoke change, growth, and healing.
You are longing for a better and more fulfilling life, yet there is something standing in your way. Depression and/or anxiety can feel overwhelming, debilitating, and out of control. They can impair your daily life and inhibit you from functioning at your full potential. It is my goal to help you realize your strengths, and utilize them in order to create the life that you desire. Together, we will grow your skill set so that you can make positive changes and cope with the difficult aspects of life. I will provide you with a compassionate, warm, non-judgemental, and confidential space in order to evoke change, growth, and healing.
(410) 498-7728 View (410) 498-7728
Photo of Zhane Thomas-Hemingway, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Zhane Thomas-Hemingway
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Zhane Thomas-Hemingway is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University and an M. A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, D. C. Campus. Zhane offers to help clients feel welcomed by being comfortable with understanding these thoughts and emotions that are connected to how they are responding to issues in their life. As a client shows up willing to receive support, Zhane helps them with understanding things that lead to effective change.
Zhane Thomas-Hemingway is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University and an M. A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, D. C. Campus. Zhane offers to help clients feel welcomed by being comfortable with understanding these thoughts and emotions that are connected to how they are responding to issues in their life. As a client shows up willing to receive support, Zhane helps them with understanding things that lead to effective change.
(410) 618-0450 View (410) 618-0450
Photo of Bradley Lake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Bradley Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy, as well as supervision to clinicians. I create a safe working environment where I will caringly challenge you to learn, explore, and ultimately grow. Everyone has a rich internal world full of aspirations. Everyone needs to be seen and heard to recognize and achieve their goals. However, we often feel stuck, lost or depressed. We need to be challenged to see from new perspectives, to feel profoundly, and to make life changes. I am here to help you, to see and hear you, to challenge you to grow and make your external life reflect your internal world.
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy, as well as supervision to clinicians. I create a safe working environment where I will caringly challenge you to learn, explore, and ultimately grow. Everyone has a rich internal world full of aspirations. Everyone needs to be seen and heard to recognize and achieve their goals. However, we often feel stuck, lost or depressed. We need to be challenged to see from new perspectives, to feel profoundly, and to make life changes. I am here to help you, to see and hear you, to challenge you to grow and make your external life reflect your internal world.
(202) 517-0967 View (202) 517-0967
Photo of Mother Hunger Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Mother Hunger Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Lisa Eschbach
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Mother Hunger (trademarked by Kelly McDaniel, author of the book Mother Hunger)“is a term that helps women name the unspeakable heartbreak that emerges from missing essential elements of maternal care. When we grow up with inadequate nurturance, protection or guidance, we struggle with symptoms of depression or anxiety as we yearn for a certain type of love.” Understanding what a mother provides in such a detailed and profound way creates the path to fully understanding what you may have not gotten and what you did receive. In this space we will expand your view as daughters through the lens of protection, guidance and nurturance.
Mother Hunger (trademarked by Kelly McDaniel, author of the book Mother Hunger)“is a term that helps women name the unspeakable heartbreak that emerges from missing essential elements of maternal care. When we grow up with inadequate nurturance, protection or guidance, we struggle with symptoms of depression or anxiety as we yearn for a certain type of love.” Understanding what a mother provides in such a detailed and profound way creates the path to fully understanding what you may have not gotten and what you did receive. In this space we will expand your view as daughters through the lens of protection, guidance and nurturance.
(667) 222-1954 View (667) 222-1954
Photo of Sally A Mays, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Sally A Mays
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I treat teenagers, college students, and adults with issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to adjusting to life changes (such as relationship challenges, new parenthood, aging, and chronic medical conditions). I balance evidence-based practices with building a comfortable relationship to allow patients to share concerns freely. After getting to know my patients and their circumstances, I work with them to identify where they may challenge their beliefs and try new strategies. Depending on your concerns, you might work with me on exposure therapy, social and communication skills, mindfulness, and emotion regulation.
I treat teenagers, college students, and adults with issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to adjusting to life changes (such as relationship challenges, new parenthood, aging, and chronic medical conditions). I balance evidence-based practices with building a comfortable relationship to allow patients to share concerns freely. After getting to know my patients and their circumstances, I work with them to identify where they may challenge their beliefs and try new strategies. Depending on your concerns, you might work with me on exposure therapy, social and communication skills, mindfulness, and emotion regulation.
(410) 862-4422 View (410) 862-4422
Photo of Julie Roberts, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Julie Roberts
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
I believe every client has a story to tell and I feel deeply about learning about my clients. I want to know how they got to where they are today and where they want to be in their lives. I am ready to take that journey with each of them. I am passionate about helping them achieve whatever goals they are trying to. I work with individuals with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, relational issues, and trauma. I believe in looking at our well-being from a holistic approach. My therapy focuses on empowering the client to achieve a sense of self-acceptance, self-confidence and affect change in their lives.
I believe every client has a story to tell and I feel deeply about learning about my clients. I want to know how they got to where they are today and where they want to be in their lives. I am ready to take that journey with each of them. I am passionate about helping them achieve whatever goals they are trying to. I work with individuals with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, relational issues, and trauma. I believe in looking at our well-being from a holistic approach. My therapy focuses on empowering the client to achieve a sense of self-acceptance, self-confidence and affect change in their lives.
(240) 410-6486 View (240) 410-6486
Photo of Daniel Holler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Daniel Holler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
No one gets through life without collecting emotional cuts and scars. Some cuts seem too small to matter much, but continue to be triggers for anger, depression and anxiety. I have been using Emotional Freedom Techniques (also known as Tapping) to promote healing of the triggers. As the triggers heal anger, anxiety and depression lose their grip on life. Special notice for VETS: TheTapping method is the most effective treatment for battlefield traumas I have found. While working with IBM I acquired a Masters Degree in Counseling from Loyola of Baltimore and later I earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work.
No one gets through life without collecting emotional cuts and scars. Some cuts seem too small to matter much, but continue to be triggers for anger, depression and anxiety. I have been using Emotional Freedom Techniques (also known as Tapping) to promote healing of the triggers. As the triggers heal anger, anxiety and depression lose their grip on life. Special notice for VETS: TheTapping method is the most effective treatment for battlefield traumas I have found. While working with IBM I acquired a Masters Degree in Counseling from Loyola of Baltimore and later I earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work.
(410) 584-3970 View (410) 584-3970
Photo of Matthew Yeazel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Matthew Yeazel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
We are all unique individuals and bring so much to the world. My goal is to empower you to tap into your uniqueness and help you overcome any issues that might be causing you to not reach your full potential. Life can sometimes be quite difficult- I welcome the opportunity to be of assistance on your journey.
We are all unique individuals and bring so much to the world. My goal is to empower you to tap into your uniqueness and help you overcome any issues that might be causing you to not reach your full potential. Life can sometimes be quite difficult- I welcome the opportunity to be of assistance on your journey.
(410) 983-6586 View (410) 983-6586
Photo of Jolene Farmer, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Jolene Farmer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCSP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My work is focused on helping people find and develop their intrinsic resiliency as they move through the many challenges in life. Reaching out for help is not easy and taking that first courageous step is worth celebrating. I would describe my style as warm, supportive, and hopeful. I have experience working with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, self-harming behaviors, and trauma. I have training in positive psychology, mindfulness-based therapy, CBT, and DBT. I am offering virtual supervision for LGPCs in Maryland who are pursuing their LCPC, as well as direct therapy.
My work is focused on helping people find and develop their intrinsic resiliency as they move through the many challenges in life. Reaching out for help is not easy and taking that first courageous step is worth celebrating. I would describe my style as warm, supportive, and hopeful. I have experience working with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, self-harming behaviors, and trauma. I have training in positive psychology, mindfulness-based therapy, CBT, and DBT. I am offering virtual supervision for LGPCs in Maryland who are pursuing their LCPC, as well as direct therapy.
(443) 733-6552 View (443) 733-6552
Photo of Accepting New Clients! Contact Us to Schedule!, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Accepting New Clients! Contact Us to Schedule!
Counselor
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
As a therapist I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns and find healing and growth. With years of experience and specialized training, I offer expertise in treating a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. I tailor the therapy to your unique needs, using a personalized and holistic approach that takes into account your individual circumstances and strengths. I prioritize your well-being and work with you to develop practical strategies and tools that can be applied to real-life situations, enabling lasting change. Together, we will put you on a path toward healing
As a therapist I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns and find healing and growth. With years of experience and specialized training, I offer expertise in treating a wide range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. I tailor the therapy to your unique needs, using a personalized and holistic approach that takes into account your individual circumstances and strengths. I prioritize your well-being and work with you to develop practical strategies and tools that can be applied to real-life situations, enabling lasting change. Together, we will put you on a path toward healing
(240) 376-5877 View (240) 376-5877
Photo of Lotus Psychotherapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lotus Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409
Our therapy practice embodies a variety of niches and areas of focus. Ideal client's for Lotus Psychotherapy are folks who are motivated to change and value the process of self awareness. We work with tweens, couples, and adults who might be struggling with a multitude of stressors, feelings and barriers. As a collective practice, we have experience with addiction, postpartum, adolescent behaviors, depression, trauma work, grief and anxiety.
Our therapy practice embodies a variety of niches and areas of focus. Ideal client's for Lotus Psychotherapy are folks who are motivated to change and value the process of self awareness. We work with tweens, couples, and adults who might be struggling with a multitude of stressors, feelings and barriers. As a collective practice, we have experience with addiction, postpartum, adolescent behaviors, depression, trauma work, grief and anxiety.
(410) 267-4566 View (410) 267-4566
Photo of Linda Nnaji, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Linda Nnaji
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My name is Linda Nnaji and I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in the state of Maryland with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Trinity University located in Washington, DC.
My name is Linda Nnaji and I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in the state of Maryland with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Trinity University located in Washington, DC.
(443) 707-2828 View (443) 707-2828
Photo of Jaime Nowell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Jaime Nowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCADC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Are you depressed? Lonely? Anxious? Are you trapped in a bad relationship? Do others think you drink too much? I can help you take control of your life. You need a therapist who listens to you and understands your problems. I treat people with relationship problems, substance abuse and addictions, depression, anxiety and ADHD.
Are you depressed? Lonely? Anxious? Are you trapped in a bad relationship? Do others think you drink too much? I can help you take control of your life. You need a therapist who listens to you and understands your problems. I treat people with relationship problems, substance abuse and addictions, depression, anxiety and ADHD.
(410) 279-1400 View (410) 279-1400
Photo of Maryann Boyle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Maryann Boyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
It's not easy to take these first steps in your healing journey (or to start again if this isn't the first time you've done this). I look forward to helping you discover your own strength and inner resources as we work together toward your healing and overall wellness.
It's not easy to take these first steps in your healing journey (or to start again if this isn't the first time you've done this). I look forward to helping you discover your own strength and inner resources as we work together toward your healing and overall wellness.
(410) 873-7838 View (410) 873-7838
Photo of Samantha Arfin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Samantha Arfin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for support? Is it hard to imagine someone else could possibly understand what's going on inside your head or why your body feels that way? Do you act in ways that don’t quite make sense to you? Or maybe you just learned something that isn't sitting well with you and are looking for ways to manage. You’re not alone!
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for support? Is it hard to imagine someone else could possibly understand what's going on inside your head or why your body feels that way? Do you act in ways that don’t quite make sense to you? Or maybe you just learned something that isn't sitting well with you and are looking for ways to manage. You’re not alone!
(410) 709-4743 View (410) 709-4743
Photo of Debra D Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Debra D Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with a relationship with a spouse/partner, adult child, parent, other family member, friend, or colleague? Misunderstandings and conflict can cause us tremendous emotional, and even significant physical, distress. I specialize in helping clients consider their troubled relationship through a different lens. We’ll focus on what you CAN control and change, with special attention given to “cleaning up” unhelpful thought patterns and beliefs that may be self-defeating. We’ll also focus on YOU - identifying your needs and life priorities, and how best to support those in this relationship and other areas of your life.
Are you struggling with a relationship with a spouse/partner, adult child, parent, other family member, friend, or colleague? Misunderstandings and conflict can cause us tremendous emotional, and even significant physical, distress. I specialize in helping clients consider their troubled relationship through a different lens. We’ll focus on what you CAN control and change, with special attention given to “cleaning up” unhelpful thought patterns and beliefs that may be self-defeating. We’ll also focus on YOU - identifying your needs and life priorities, and how best to support those in this relationship and other areas of your life.
(443) 737-4475 View (443) 737-4475

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Annapolis, MD

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Annapolis, MD who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
87% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% CareFirst
65% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Annapolis, MD see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Annapolis?

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.