Therapists in Lynnwood, WA

Photo of Lonnie G Kaman, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Lonnie G Kaman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I have 23 years of experience in the fields of mental health and law enforcement. I believe in empowering my clients and working collaboratively so you can become the most effective, best version of you. I can help you overcome vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue and other stressors in your life; depression, anxiety, criminal justice involvement, substance abuse, sexual deviancy and "fit for duty issues". Let me help you to help yourself.
I have 23 years of experience in the fields of mental health and law enforcement. I believe in empowering my clients and working collaboratively so you can become the most effective, best version of you. I can help you overcome vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue and other stressors in your life; depression, anxiety, criminal justice involvement, substance abuse, sexual deviancy and "fit for duty issues". Let me help you to help yourself.
(206) 800-7156 View (206) 800-7156
Photo of Jodie Solberg in Lynnwood, WA
Jodie Solberg
CHT, CPRT
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Everyone Needs To Hit The Reset Button At Some Point In Their Life. Hi, I’m Jodie. High-achieving professionals come to me when their burnout, anxiety and effects from trauma are so bad that it’s affecting their work and personal life and they are ready for a proven solution NOW. In my tried and true signature program, I combine holistic practices such as hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and somatic release with cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reconnect with your inner wisdom and release past traumas that are keeping unhealthy patterns in place.
Everyone Needs To Hit The Reset Button At Some Point In Their Life. Hi, I’m Jodie. High-achieving professionals come to me when their burnout, anxiety and effects from trauma are so bad that it’s affecting their work and personal life and they are ready for a proven solution NOW. In my tried and true signature program, I combine holistic practices such as hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and somatic release with cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reconnect with your inner wisdom and release past traumas that are keeping unhealthy patterns in place.
(425) 368-9782 View (425) 368-9782
Photo of Melissa Watson, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Melissa Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I can help you to feel heard and understood and to connect with your strengths and authenticity. I encourage a foundation of acceptance & self-compassion, providing space for all parts to be discovered and expressed so that healing can occur. I will meet you where you’re at and adjust my approach to support your needs, values, and cultural background. I offer guidance in working with dreams and active imagination for those wanting to explore the depths in this way. I enjoy supporting clients to get unstuck, develop self-love and confidence, to live the life they want to live.
My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I can help you to feel heard and understood and to connect with your strengths and authenticity. I encourage a foundation of acceptance & self-compassion, providing space for all parts to be discovered and expressed so that healing can occur. I will meet you where you’re at and adjust my approach to support your needs, values, and cultural background. I offer guidance in working with dreams and active imagination for those wanting to explore the depths in this way. I enjoy supporting clients to get unstuck, develop self-love and confidence, to live the life they want to live.
(206) 495-6232 View (206) 495-6232
Photo of Kadi Cooke, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Kadi Cooke
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Life presents its challenges, and in navigating them, having a dedicated space to share your thoughts, emotions, and feelings becomes paramount. My commitment lies in assisting individuals in discovering a sanctuary for self-expression. Whether contending with issues of self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, interpersonal dynamics, or grappling with perceptions of oneself in the external world, the journey can be demanding.
Life presents its challenges, and in navigating them, having a dedicated space to share your thoughts, emotions, and feelings becomes paramount. My commitment lies in assisting individuals in discovering a sanctuary for self-expression. Whether contending with issues of self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, interpersonal dynamics, or grappling with perceptions of oneself in the external world, the journey can be demanding.
(425) 470-6029 View (425) 470-6029
Photo of Nina Rhys, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Nina Rhys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Have you identified a desire to work toward personal growth and transformation? Is there painful past trauma or events creating obstacles in your life today? Do you perceive a disconnect between what you have accomplished thus far, and what you believe you are capable of? Are interpersonal relationships challenging for you? Is a satisfying and equitable love relationship eluding you? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression and looking for solutions to cope with every day living? Do you have a goal to improve your overall wellbeing and happiness? Are you asking for what you need in your life?
Have you identified a desire to work toward personal growth and transformation? Is there painful past trauma or events creating obstacles in your life today? Do you perceive a disconnect between what you have accomplished thus far, and what you believe you are capable of? Are interpersonal relationships challenging for you? Is a satisfying and equitable love relationship eluding you? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression and looking for solutions to cope with every day living? Do you have a goal to improve your overall wellbeing and happiness? Are you asking for what you need in your life?
(425) 842-3094 View (425) 842-3094
Photo of Runjhun Pandit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Runjhun Pandit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98037  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with Adolescents and Young adults struggling with body image, emotion regulation concerns, anxiety and depression. I also work with clients who struggle with low self-esteem, trauma and phase of life transitions. Clients who are open to learning new skills, process emotions and work through their eating disorder in order to focus on their career goals and achieve their true potential in life. I offer clinical supervision to associates in California and workshops and trainings on mental health.
I enjoy working with Adolescents and Young adults struggling with body image, emotion regulation concerns, anxiety and depression. I also work with clients who struggle with low self-esteem, trauma and phase of life transitions. Clients who are open to learning new skills, process emotions and work through their eating disorder in order to focus on their career goals and achieve their true potential in life. I offer clinical supervision to associates in California and workshops and trainings on mental health.
(650) 899-6246 View (650) 899-6246
Photo of Mindy Jones, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Mindy Jones
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I draw on several approaches for treatment including EMDR, mindfulness-based CBT, and traditional talk therapy, tailoring my practice toward the needs of each person. I use a humanistic attachment lens informed by interpersonal neurobiology. I primarily work with people who have complex intersections of identity and those who have experienced trauma. The trauma may surface through symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, or difficulty managing relationships. I work with a lot of individuals who have experienced complex trauma, developmental trauma, a single traumatic event, emotional neglect, and physical neglect.
I draw on several approaches for treatment including EMDR, mindfulness-based CBT, and traditional talk therapy, tailoring my practice toward the needs of each person. I use a humanistic attachment lens informed by interpersonal neurobiology. I primarily work with people who have complex intersections of identity and those who have experienced trauma. The trauma may surface through symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, or difficulty managing relationships. I work with a lot of individuals who have experienced complex trauma, developmental trauma, a single traumatic event, emotional neglect, and physical neglect.
(425) 584-2463 View (425) 584-2463
Photo of Tracy Kalloway, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Tracy Kalloway
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Something happens...or someone says something...and before you know it you're reacting. And it's big. In the heat of the moment, you're sure you are right - and maybe you really are-but it pushes others away. They tell you things like "you're making a big deal out of nothing" or "just chill". And that just makes things worse. Later, when the moment has passed, you can have regrets...or even shame. And then the self-hatred sets in. You've got to change. You've probably done therapy before, and it just didn't help.
Something happens...or someone says something...and before you know it you're reacting. And it's big. In the heat of the moment, you're sure you are right - and maybe you really are-but it pushes others away. They tell you things like "you're making a big deal out of nothing" or "just chill". And that just makes things worse. Later, when the moment has passed, you can have regrets...or even shame. And then the self-hatred sets in. You've got to change. You've probably done therapy before, and it just didn't help.
View
Photo of Alanna Dombrowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Alanna Dombrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98037
I am guided to work with you through a holistic lens that supports connection with the mind, body, and spirit. Drawing from the Psychodynamic Approach, we can begin to focus on unearthing the unconscious beliefs that cause present day anxiety, depression, and feelings of uneasiness. Interested in learning more? Please explore my website: www.Mindfulhealingwa.com
I am guided to work with you through a holistic lens that supports connection with the mind, body, and spirit. Drawing from the Psychodynamic Approach, we can begin to focus on unearthing the unconscious beliefs that cause present day anxiety, depression, and feelings of uneasiness. Interested in learning more? Please explore my website: www.Mindfulhealingwa.com
(425) 600-7635 View (425) 600-7635
Photo of Jeanine M. O'Connell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Jeanine M. O'Connell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I work with people of all ages committed to developing self-awareness in order to change or enhance their quality of life. I work with children experiencing anxiety, depression, and home/school challenges. Supporting children usually involves working with parents/guardians and families. I enjoy working with individual adults interested in understanding themselves, their relationships, and their actions. My therapy practice includes play therapy and art therapy, sand-play, active listening, family systems work, and parenting education. I am curious and compassionate in my relationship to clients with varying needs and backgrounds.
I work with people of all ages committed to developing self-awareness in order to change or enhance their quality of life. I work with children experiencing anxiety, depression, and home/school challenges. Supporting children usually involves working with parents/guardians and families. I enjoy working with individual adults interested in understanding themselves, their relationships, and their actions. My therapy practice includes play therapy and art therapy, sand-play, active listening, family systems work, and parenting education. I am curious and compassionate in my relationship to clients with varying needs and backgrounds.
(425) 382-6897 View (425) 382-6897
Photo of Tyler Higgins, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Tyler Higgins
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Both the past and present contribute to who we are and how we are, and either can have a place in counseling. Some of the relationships between our past and present selves may be obvious to us, while others may not. I believe that you are capable of change and of forging new ways of being. I care about people and am invested in their stories, and I believe counseling can help us gain more authorship of our own stories. I value diverse perspectives and social justice and will strive to understand and work within your worldview. This is your journey, and you are its author - I'm honored to be a part of it.
Both the past and present contribute to who we are and how we are, and either can have a place in counseling. Some of the relationships between our past and present selves may be obvious to us, while others may not. I believe that you are capable of change and of forging new ways of being. I care about people and am invested in their stories, and I believe counseling can help us gain more authorship of our own stories. I value diverse perspectives and social justice and will strive to understand and work within your worldview. This is your journey, and you are its author - I'm honored to be a part of it.
(425) 385-0204 View (425) 385-0204
Photo of Christine Kay Cuhaciyan, Counselor in Lynnwood, WA
Christine Kay Cuhaciyan
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98037
Waitlist for new clients
Are you currently in a relationship where you're not happy but can't seem to get yourself to leave? Maybe you feel emotionally stuck or confused and have tried leaving only to return to the same unhappy relationship where nothing seems to change. On the other hand, you might feel that you keep entering into relationships in which you are treated poorly but can't figure out why. Perhaps you're dating and finding "the one" seems impossible. You feel sad and disappointed, no one seems to understand, and you don't know what else to do to make things better. I'm here to tell you that things can change and I am here to help!
Are you currently in a relationship where you're not happy but can't seem to get yourself to leave? Maybe you feel emotionally stuck or confused and have tried leaving only to return to the same unhappy relationship where nothing seems to change. On the other hand, you might feel that you keep entering into relationships in which you are treated poorly but can't figure out why. Perhaps you're dating and finding "the one" seems impossible. You feel sad and disappointed, no one seems to understand, and you don't know what else to do to make things better. I'm here to tell you that things can change and I am here to help!
(206) 312-2649 View (206) 312-2649
Photo of Julie Madsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Julie Madsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Welcome. Whatever your reasons for seeking therapy at this time, my goal as a provider is to make the experience both a comfortable and value added one for you. I've been a psychotherapist for thirty-plus years and know it’s not always easy to take the first step, or open up to a stranger. I've never had a one size fits all approach to psychotherapy. Instead I try to tailor my practice to fit the needs of each person as an individual with a unique set of experiences and concerns.
Welcome. Whatever your reasons for seeking therapy at this time, my goal as a provider is to make the experience both a comfortable and value added one for you. I've been a psychotherapist for thirty-plus years and know it’s not always easy to take the first step, or open up to a stranger. I've never had a one size fits all approach to psychotherapy. Instead I try to tailor my practice to fit the needs of each person as an individual with a unique set of experiences and concerns.
(425) 532-3829 View (425) 532-3829
Photo of Jess Paquin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Jess Paquin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Deciding to participate in therapy is a huge step in your journey of healing. I feel deeply honored to join with folx on this journey. I will unite with you to explore ways in which your experiences and current life circumstances may be leaving you feeling empty, unfulfilled, or lost. I am here to support you through this and to use your unique strengths as a basis for growth. I am a strengths-based, person-centered, and relational therapist. I emphasize our relationship as a container for change and believe that healing can occur in many different ways, therapy being one of these routes.
Deciding to participate in therapy is a huge step in your journey of healing. I feel deeply honored to join with folx on this journey. I will unite with you to explore ways in which your experiences and current life circumstances may be leaving you feeling empty, unfulfilled, or lost. I am here to support you through this and to use your unique strengths as a basis for growth. I am a strengths-based, person-centered, and relational therapist. I emphasize our relationship as a container for change and believe that healing can occur in many different ways, therapy being one of these routes.
(425) 728-2536 View (425) 728-2536
Photo of Rosie Benzonelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Rosie Benzonelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, APHSW-C, CTMH
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults from all walks of life navigating complex trauma, demoralization, anxiety, transitions, grief, end of life and chronic medical issues. Many clients are striving to move beyond "stuck" and the feeling they are just surviving to a more hopeful perspective allowing healing and growth.To move through change there is often a feeling of loss, uncertainty, a redefinition of roles or self-identity.
I enjoy working with adults from all walks of life navigating complex trauma, demoralization, anxiety, transitions, grief, end of life and chronic medical issues. Many clients are striving to move beyond "stuck" and the feeling they are just surviving to a more hopeful perspective allowing healing and growth.To move through change there is often a feeling of loss, uncertainty, a redefinition of roles or self-identity.
(425) 434-5922 View (425) 434-5922
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
We are accepting new clients. My name is Monica Muliro, and I am a Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical in WA State. I specialize in helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and substance use.
We are accepting new clients. My name is Monica Muliro, and I am a Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical in WA State. I specialize in helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and substance use.
(425) 333-2628 View (425) 333-2628
Photo of Brie Chang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Brie Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98087  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My background in psychology, massage therapy, and social work is here to guide your mental health journey with a mind, body, and sociocultural lens. People with experiences, identities, and presentations that do not fit the status quo may find working with me a refreshing experience. While I serve all, I have a special interest serving the LGBTQAI+ community, specifically gender diverse individuals. My practice specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, Queer issues, attachment wounds, life transitions, spiritual narratives, and stress management.
My background in psychology, massage therapy, and social work is here to guide your mental health journey with a mind, body, and sociocultural lens. People with experiences, identities, and presentations that do not fit the status quo may find working with me a refreshing experience. While I serve all, I have a special interest serving the LGBTQAI+ community, specifically gender diverse individuals. My practice specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, Queer issues, attachment wounds, life transitions, spiritual narratives, and stress management.
(206) 307-0513 View (206) 307-0513
Photo of Paul Clark LaFond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Paul Clark LaFond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am passionately committed to helping you with issues of loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am comfortable working with preteens, teens, young and older adults, couples, and families. I offer you a warm, safe nonjudgmental space in which you and I can work together to discover tools which will enable you to build more authentic joyful connections and intimacy with yourself and within your interpersonal relationships. I draw from a wide variety of theories, techniques, and approaches that will enable you to move deliberately and comfortably towards your goals.
I am passionately committed to helping you with issues of loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am comfortable working with preteens, teens, young and older adults, couples, and families. I offer you a warm, safe nonjudgmental space in which you and I can work together to discover tools which will enable you to build more authentic joyful connections and intimacy with yourself and within your interpersonal relationships. I draw from a wide variety of theories, techniques, and approaches that will enable you to move deliberately and comfortably towards your goals.
(360) 207-2554 View (360) 207-2554
Photo of Marlene Bowman Sexton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Marlene Bowman Sexton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98037
Feeling better about yourself, your life and others around you are all big steps toward getting healthier. Helping patients get past life-disrupting issues and get back on track to living happier, more fulfilling lives.
Feeling better about yourself, your life and others around you are all big steps toward getting healthier. Helping patients get past life-disrupting issues and get back on track to living happier, more fulfilling lives.
(425) 510-5324 View (425) 510-5324
Photo of Jamie Elzea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lynnwood, WA
Jamie Elzea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98087
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, low mood, or in need of big change? I support clients facing challenges across life circumstances: pregnancy, parenting, college, career, health changes, relationship shifts, identity exploration, or grief & loss. My clients are interested in looking closer at how thoughts and behavior patterns get in the way of living the life they want to live--with a willingness to discover what matters most and try new ways of dealing with stressors to achieve the vision you have for your life.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, low mood, or in need of big change? I support clients facing challenges across life circumstances: pregnancy, parenting, college, career, health changes, relationship shifts, identity exploration, or grief & loss. My clients are interested in looking closer at how thoughts and behavior patterns get in the way of living the life they want to live--with a willingness to discover what matters most and try new ways of dealing with stressors to achieve the vision you have for your life.
(425) 272-6753 View (425) 272-6753

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lynnwood, WA

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Lynnwood, WA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
67% Stress
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Premera
78% Regence
66% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Lynnwood, WA see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lynnwood?

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.