Therapists in Gloucester, MA

Photo of Jessica Perrine, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Perrine
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist independently licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I earned my Associate of Science degree in Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation at NSCC, a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Growth & Development W/SI in Criminal Justice at Lesley University and a Master of Education degree in Counseling Psychology W/SI in Forensic Psychology at Cambridge College. My experience is extensive in the areas of: Addictions/Recovery, Interventions; Relationship Issues, including but not limited to Survivors of Domestic Violence, Narcissistic Abuse & Toxic Family Dynamics; ADHD Tried & True Strategies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist independently licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I earned my Associate of Science degree in Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation at NSCC, a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Growth & Development W/SI in Criminal Justice at Lesley University and a Master of Education degree in Counseling Psychology W/SI in Forensic Psychology at Cambridge College. My experience is extensive in the areas of: Addictions/Recovery, Interventions; Relationship Issues, including but not limited to Survivors of Domestic Violence, Narcissistic Abuse & Toxic Family Dynamics; ADHD Tried & True Strategies.
(978) 391-6046 View (978) 391-6046
Photo of Charlee Bianchini, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlee Bianchini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
Waitlist for new clients
After growing up in Massachusetts, a lifetime of travel opened my eyes and heart to the many ways people live and make meaning of experience. This perspective has informed the strengths-based, person-centered approach to my work as a therapist. Social work has been central to my professional life long before receiving my degree. I began my career leading youth programs, have worked in domestic abuse advocacy, facilitation of women's groups and dialogue facilitation. Through a narrative therapy lens, I work with clients to make meaning of their life experiences and live more closely to the values they feel are most important.
After growing up in Massachusetts, a lifetime of travel opened my eyes and heart to the many ways people live and make meaning of experience. This perspective has informed the strengths-based, person-centered approach to my work as a therapist. Social work has been central to my professional life long before receiving my degree. I began my career leading youth programs, have worked in domestic abuse advocacy, facilitation of women's groups and dialogue facilitation. Through a narrative therapy lens, I work with clients to make meaning of their life experiences and live more closely to the values they feel are most important.
(978) 736-3702 View (978) 736-3702
Photo of Mark S Konecky, PhD, Psychologist
Mark S Konecky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
The most important aspect of talk therapy is establishing empathy with the unique perspective of each client. Feeling and communicating empathy to the client allows us to work on the issues that bring the client to treatment. I am trained in all the major therapeutic modalities and strive to match each person's needs to the particular therapeutic modalities that seem best suited for our work.
The most important aspect of talk therapy is establishing empathy with the unique perspective of each client. Feeling and communicating empathy to the client allows us to work on the issues that bring the client to treatment. I am trained in all the major therapeutic modalities and strive to match each person's needs to the particular therapeutic modalities that seem best suited for our work.
(978) 307-1149 View (978) 307-1149
Photo of Jennifer A Camp, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer A Camp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
Welcome! Mental wellness is an essential element of a satisfied human experience. By cultivating our own well-being, we are more empowered to enjoy functional and rewarding relationships with ourselves and those around us. We can then experience deep engagement with our passions and the ability to participate fully in the vast sea of life. My practice, Blue Ocean Mental Wellness aspires to deliver empathetic and impactful psychotherapy so that you can be present for life’s joys and find resilience through its inevitable hardships. We find purpose in partnering with clients to facilitate an unbiased exploration of self.
Welcome! Mental wellness is an essential element of a satisfied human experience. By cultivating our own well-being, we are more empowered to enjoy functional and rewarding relationships with ourselves and those around us. We can then experience deep engagement with our passions and the ability to participate fully in the vast sea of life. My practice, Blue Ocean Mental Wellness aspires to deliver empathetic and impactful psychotherapy so that you can be present for life’s joys and find resilience through its inevitable hardships. We find purpose in partnering with clients to facilitate an unbiased exploration of self.
(978) 915-6784 View (978) 915-6784
Photo of Katie Batt Cahill, MA, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Katie Batt Cahill
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gloucester, MA 01930
Not accepting new clients
*Not Accepting New Clients. Click on my website to join the waitlist * As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist, I have a variety of methods to meet the needs of those I work with. I utilize skills-based (CBT, DBT, mindfulness), process-oriented and relational approaches depending on the goals we make. I believe therapy is an active and collaborative process to facilitate insight and change.
*Not Accepting New Clients. Click on my website to join the waitlist * As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist, I have a variety of methods to meet the needs of those I work with. I utilize skills-based (CBT, DBT, mindfulness), process-oriented and relational approaches depending on the goals we make. I believe therapy is an active and collaborative process to facilitate insight and change.
(978) 582-3730 View (978) 582-3730
Photo of Ifemide S Ayo, MEd, LMHC
Ifemide S Ayo
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'd like to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to cultivate a healthier version of yourself. Which includes, but is not limited to identifying emotions, triggers, and coping skills. Helping you understand what you're going through in order to make necessary change. Learning your personal patterns and behaviors to improving quality of life. (Telehealth Only)
I'd like to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to cultivate a healthier version of yourself. Which includes, but is not limited to identifying emotions, triggers, and coping skills. Helping you understand what you're going through in order to make necessary change. Learning your personal patterns and behaviors to improving quality of life. (Telehealth Only)
View
Photo of Alison M Landoni, LMHC, CLYL, REAT, CHP, Counselor
Alison M Landoni
Counselor, LMHC, CLYL, REAT, CHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gloucester, MA 01930
Midday openings are available at this time! I work with adult clients who want to use expressive arts therapy and therapeutic humor in addition to traditional talk therapy to help overcome the obstacles that are keeping them from living their best life. This approach can benefit those who have experienced trauma, are struggling with depression or anxiety, or would like a new way of coping with ADHD. There is no need to be an artist to reap the many benefits of expressive arts therapy! Note: Most days, I am accompanied by my bunny, Molly, as we prepare to offer Animal-Assisted Therapy eventually.
Midday openings are available at this time! I work with adult clients who want to use expressive arts therapy and therapeutic humor in addition to traditional talk therapy to help overcome the obstacles that are keeping them from living their best life. This approach can benefit those who have experienced trauma, are struggling with depression or anxiety, or would like a new way of coping with ADHD. There is no need to be an artist to reap the many benefits of expressive arts therapy! Note: Most days, I am accompanied by my bunny, Molly, as we prepare to offer Animal-Assisted Therapy eventually.
(978) 381-8972 View (978) 381-8972
Photo of Barbara J Oliver, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara J Oliver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe that every person deserves a therapist they feel understood and supported by. I provide a compassionate, respectful and non-judgmental approach and collaborate with clients to recognize and strengthen their inner resources and values toward developing positive solutions - whether struggling with a long-time chronic issue or with an adjustment to a difficult life event or crisis. I offer both brief and longer-term therapy, as appropriate, and work with clients through video, phone and in-person sessions.I believe that committing to work through life's challenges in therapy can often result in unimaginable joy and meaning.
I believe that every person deserves a therapist they feel understood and supported by. I provide a compassionate, respectful and non-judgmental approach and collaborate with clients to recognize and strengthen their inner resources and values toward developing positive solutions - whether struggling with a long-time chronic issue or with an adjustment to a difficult life event or crisis. I offer both brief and longer-term therapy, as appropriate, and work with clients through video, phone and in-person sessions.I believe that committing to work through life's challenges in therapy can often result in unimaginable joy and meaning.
(978) 381-1768 View (978) 381-1768
Photo of Patricia Clayman, PhD, Psychologist
Patricia Clayman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed Psychologist and work with adults in individual therapy and with couples from diverse backgrounds. I work with clients coping with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress and relationships, trauma/post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, life transitions, anger management and chronic and acute health issues. I have confidence in the value of insight oriented / psychodynamic therapy. I integrate a humanistic, relational therapeutic approach with evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, solution focused and strength based therapy.
I am a licensed Psychologist and work with adults in individual therapy and with couples from diverse backgrounds. I work with clients coping with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress and relationships, trauma/post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, life transitions, anger management and chronic and acute health issues. I have confidence in the value of insight oriented / psychodynamic therapy. I integrate a humanistic, relational therapeutic approach with evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, solution focused and strength based therapy.
(617) 500-2368 View (617) 500-2368
Photo of Jessica Redis, Jessica Redis, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Redis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Jessica Redis, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
January 2024: Accepting BCBS and private pay clients for telehealth only. In my 15 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, I have had the privilege to support clients through a range of challenges, issues and successes. I thrive most when the therapeutic process is collaborative, and clients are enthusiastic, curious and engaged.
January 2024: Accepting BCBS and private pay clients for telehealth only. In my 15 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, I have had the privilege to support clients through a range of challenges, issues and successes. I thrive most when the therapeutic process is collaborative, and clients are enthusiastic, curious and engaged.
(978) 297-8407 View (978) 297-8407
Photo of Brian Simpson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
My ideal client has hope that by understanding their own habitual patterns of thought and emotion they can improve the quality of their lives. It could be a recurrent pattern in a relationship or tendency that is not recognized in other areas. Most of these patterns are unconscious or partly conscious. Everyone has recurrent patterns of thinking and feeling that are just more or less dysfunctional. We tend to repeat what is familiar to us.
My ideal client has hope that by understanding their own habitual patterns of thought and emotion they can improve the quality of their lives. It could be a recurrent pattern in a relationship or tendency that is not recognized in other areas. Most of these patterns are unconscious or partly conscious. Everyone has recurrent patterns of thinking and feeling that are just more or less dysfunctional. We tend to repeat what is familiar to us.
(508) 715-9484 View (508) 715-9484
Photo of Maureen Lane, LMHC, Counselor
Maureen Lane
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
Hi there, I'm Maureen! Welcome! I am a dedicated therapist committed to providing compassionate and individualized care for children, teens, families, and adults. My approach is person-centered, meaning I focus on understanding each client's unique perspective, feelings, and experiences. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where every individual can explore their thoughts and emotions, and work towards personal growth and well-being. Together, we can navigate the challenges of life and foster resilience and healing.
Hi there, I'm Maureen! Welcome! I am a dedicated therapist committed to providing compassionate and individualized care for children, teens, families, and adults. My approach is person-centered, meaning I focus on understanding each client's unique perspective, feelings, and experiences. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where every individual can explore their thoughts and emotions, and work towards personal growth and well-being. Together, we can navigate the challenges of life and foster resilience and healing.
(978) 209-5888 View (978) 209-5888
Photo of Jill Hurley, LICSW, ACHP-SW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHP-SW, RYT
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
I create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment in which clients can feel comfortable sharing their experience of grief, sorting through confusion, overcoming challenges, improving relationships and expressing themselves fully. My practice is rooted in mindfulness. Mindfulness is a skill that can be learned by anyone, and can help us to become more aware of what we are thinking, feeling, and doing that stands in the way of accessing our most authentic and healthy self. I take a holistic approach to my work, with a belief that the mind, emotions and body are interconnected.
I create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment in which clients can feel comfortable sharing their experience of grief, sorting through confusion, overcoming challenges, improving relationships and expressing themselves fully. My practice is rooted in mindfulness. Mindfulness is a skill that can be learned by anyone, and can help us to become more aware of what we are thinking, feeling, and doing that stands in the way of accessing our most authentic and healthy self. I take a holistic approach to my work, with a belief that the mind, emotions and body are interconnected.
(617) 849-9563 View (617) 849-9563
Photo of Christine Anne Routhier, LMHC, MT-BC, Counselor
Christine Anne Routhier
Counselor, LMHC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
The decision to seek counseling can often bring up a lot of anxiety, but I believe it can also be the beginning of a positive, productive, and transforming experience. I am committed to creating a safe and trusting relationship with my clients so that they may feel supported and heard. I work with people who come with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, young adult issues, grief and loss, and difficult childhood memories. By connecting with their inner resources, my clients carry the benefits of our work together into their daily lives, ensuring meaningful change.
The decision to seek counseling can often bring up a lot of anxiety, but I believe it can also be the beginning of a positive, productive, and transforming experience. I am committed to creating a safe and trusting relationship with my clients so that they may feel supported and heard. I work with people who come with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, young adult issues, grief and loss, and difficult childhood memories. By connecting with their inner resources, my clients carry the benefits of our work together into their daily lives, ensuring meaningful change.
(978) 377-8003 View (978) 377-8003
Photo of Dr. Rachel W Bush, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachel W Bush
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
For 30 years, I have been helping clients improve their love lives, and working with more freedom and time for relationships and hobbies. Therapy is a collaboration: my job is to listen carefully to the issues and concerns that worry and frustrate you, and your job is to present your problems to me. We will develop a working relationship to help you overcome your issues and fears. It is my pleasure to accompany you on this journey. People in my practice tell me that our relationship has helped them make positive changes and always report feeling more hopeful. Self-esteem, feelings of self-confidence, and competence flourish.
For 30 years, I have been helping clients improve their love lives, and working with more freedom and time for relationships and hobbies. Therapy is a collaboration: my job is to listen carefully to the issues and concerns that worry and frustrate you, and your job is to present your problems to me. We will develop a working relationship to help you overcome your issues and fears. It is my pleasure to accompany you on this journey. People in my practice tell me that our relationship has helped them make positive changes and always report feeling more hopeful. Self-esteem, feelings of self-confidence, and competence flourish.
(413) 299-2634 View (413) 299-2634
Photo of James Mercier, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Mercier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
(I currently have openings for telehealth sessions on Saturday mornings.) In meeting with folks for therapeutic conversations, I value being present, curious, and caring. I take a de-centered and non-expert stance, creating space for you to develop a sense of agency and support as you face the problems and struggles of life. My hope is to help you feel not-so-alone with problems in life and to give you a space to develop clarity about what is important to you, about what your hopes and values are, and about what steps you would like to take that support your preferred ways of living.
(I currently have openings for telehealth sessions on Saturday mornings.) In meeting with folks for therapeutic conversations, I value being present, curious, and caring. I take a de-centered and non-expert stance, creating space for you to develop a sense of agency and support as you face the problems and struggles of life. My hope is to help you feel not-so-alone with problems in life and to give you a space to develop clarity about what is important to you, about what your hopes and values are, and about what steps you would like to take that support your preferred ways of living.
(508) 625-7101 View (508) 625-7101
Photo of Kathleen Kelliher-Ostrowski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Kelliher-Ostrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Let me help you move forward. Life can be complicated with a mix of twists and turns which can be hard to negotiate. Making the decision to speak with a therapist is a first step towards relieving some pressure and a courageous step forward. Although asking for help can be overwhelming, why wait?
Let me help you move forward. Life can be complicated with a mix of twists and turns which can be hard to negotiate. Making the decision to speak with a therapist is a first step towards relieving some pressure and a courageous step forward. Although asking for help can be overwhelming, why wait?
(978) 481-3136 View (978) 481-3136
Photo of Cherilyn F Enos, BAS, MS, LADC I, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Cherilyn F Enos
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BAS, MS, LADC I
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930
I have been in the counseling field for 30 years and have been involved in the treatment of substance use disorders, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I have my own personal recovery experience and have worked in a diverse array of therapeutic settings. Other areas of experience include domestic violence, childhood and family issues, along with grief work. My style is very engaging and I am very open and honest with who ever is before me. I show compassion and respect to those who choose to work with me and in this difficult time I will be incorporating phone sessions to ensure safety for all.
I have been in the counseling field for 30 years and have been involved in the treatment of substance use disorders, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I have my own personal recovery experience and have worked in a diverse array of therapeutic settings. Other areas of experience include domestic violence, childhood and family issues, along with grief work. My style is very engaging and I am very open and honest with who ever is before me. I show compassion and respect to those who choose to work with me and in this difficult time I will be incorporating phone sessions to ensure safety for all.
(978) 675-3219 View (978) 675-3219
Photo of Emily DeBenedictis, MA, ATR, Art Therapist
Emily DeBenedictis
Art Therapist, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gloucester, MA 01930
What if you only knew the wonder that has truly been you all along? Welcome to the safe discovery of your true self beyond life's past and present struggles and learn to feel better having improved skills to heal and thrive.
What if you only knew the wonder that has truly been you all along? Welcome to the safe discovery of your true self beyond life's past and present struggles and learn to feel better having improved skills to heal and thrive.
(978) 231-9256 View (978) 231-9256
Photo of Seyrel Williams, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seyrel Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Testimonials: "I just want to say thank you for everything as you have expertly guided me through some of life’s biggest challenges. You have had a huge, positive impact" & "You are my amazing healer", Anonymous. I want two things in my life; peace and truth. I assume most people would like that as well. What is causing you the most stress in your life? We cannot change anyone else but the good news is that we can change ourselves. Power comes from understanding that we have choice about our beliefs and our actions. You can learn what is stopping you from having peace in your life and then how to obtain it.
Testimonials: "I just want to say thank you for everything as you have expertly guided me through some of life’s biggest challenges. You have had a huge, positive impact" & "You are my amazing healer", Anonymous. I want two things in my life; peace and truth. I assume most people would like that as well. What is causing you the most stress in your life? We cannot change anyone else but the good news is that we can change ourselves. Power comes from understanding that we have choice about our beliefs and our actions. You can learn what is stopping you from having peace in your life and then how to obtain it.
(978) 338-6583 View (978) 338-6583
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Gloucester, MA

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Gloucester, MA who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
83% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
70% Stress

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% Tufts
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Gloucester, MA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Gloucester?

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.