Therapists in Oviedo, FL

Photo of Connie Dawson, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Connie Dawson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
I would love to talk with you about how we can work together! I will support you during sessions so that you better understand how you experience life, resulting in feeling more comfortable as you approach challenges. I work with adults, teens, and children. I have spent my career learning how to find the best approach that feels right for each person. For adults this often includes getting to know yourself better with increased compassion. For children, I support learning new ways to reduce childhood stressors and acting out behaviors, often through play. This results in positive feelings between parents and their children.
I would love to talk with you about how we can work together! I will support you during sessions so that you better understand how you experience life, resulting in feeling more comfortable as you approach challenges. I work with adults, teens, and children. I have spent my career learning how to find the best approach that feels right for each person. For adults this often includes getting to know yourself better with increased compassion. For children, I support learning new ways to reduce childhood stressors and acting out behaviors, often through play. This results in positive feelings between parents and their children.
(407) 490-0691 View (407) 490-0691
Photo of Tom Daniele, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Tom Daniele
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Tom Daniele is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2019. He has a B. A: History, Religious Studies, a B. S: Psychology, and a Master of Arts: Counselor Education- Mental Health Counseling from University of Central Florida. Tom seeks to provide clients with the support and methods that will help them achieve their goals within a framework they desire. He offers a unique perspective on the challenges of life through the lenses of philosophy, cognitive science, and biology. Tom looks to create a comfortable space for clients to be both totally honest as well as focused on their present needs.
Tom Daniele is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2019. He has a B. A: History, Religious Studies, a B. S: Psychology, and a Master of Arts: Counselor Education- Mental Health Counseling from University of Central Florida. Tom seeks to provide clients with the support and methods that will help them achieve their goals within a framework they desire. He offers a unique perspective on the challenges of life through the lenses of philosophy, cognitive science, and biology. Tom looks to create a comfortable space for clients to be both totally honest as well as focused on their present needs.
(407) 871-6684 View (407) 871-6684
Photo of Deanna G McCaskill, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Deanna G McCaskill
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Proficient in treating eating disorders, nonsuicidal self-injury, and anxiety disorders. Everyone deserves peace in their lives but often times experience fear and self-doubt from difficult experiences or perhaps invalidating environments. I have had the dream of becoming a therapist since I was in high school, and I am grateful to be living that dream. My counseling approach involves genuineness, fostering self-compassion and instilling empowerment for those I work with. It would be an honor and privilege to hear what led you to therapy, and assist you in your journey toward healing and igniting your passion for life.
Proficient in treating eating disorders, nonsuicidal self-injury, and anxiety disorders. Everyone deserves peace in their lives but often times experience fear and self-doubt from difficult experiences or perhaps invalidating environments. I have had the dream of becoming a therapist since I was in high school, and I am grateful to be living that dream. My counseling approach involves genuineness, fostering self-compassion and instilling empowerment for those I work with. It would be an honor and privilege to hear what led you to therapy, and assist you in your journey toward healing and igniting your passion for life.
(321) 765-3073 View (321) 765-3073
Photo of Mirella Caro-Cortes, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Mirella Caro-Cortes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Do you feel like you’re not being heard by your partner? Or not appreciated? Whether aimed at addressing small issues or dealing with potentially relationship-breaking challenges, therapy can help you each feel valued, heard, and connected. In a non-judgmental, supportive environment I meet with couples or individuals online from all over Florida, in the privacy of their own homes. We dive deep into the issues that are creating anger, hurt, or frustration. I help the couple or individual turn conflict into an opportunity for self-growth. The process is virtually identical to the work done in the office.
Do you feel like you’re not being heard by your partner? Or not appreciated? Whether aimed at addressing small issues or dealing with potentially relationship-breaking challenges, therapy can help you each feel valued, heard, and connected. In a non-judgmental, supportive environment I meet with couples or individuals online from all over Florida, in the privacy of their own homes. We dive deep into the issues that are creating anger, hurt, or frustration. I help the couple or individual turn conflict into an opportunity for self-growth. The process is virtually identical to the work done in the office.
(407) 512-8815 View (407) 512-8815
Photo of Kristal Pollack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oviedo, FL
Kristal Pollack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Our life experiences, stressors, and coping mechanisms can sometimes lead us to make choices that can produce more challenges than benefits. I view the therapeutic relationship as a non-judgmental partnership. It is my goal to collaboratively develop new effective ways to manage your distress, improve your relationships, and gain a better sense of who you are.
Our life experiences, stressors, and coping mechanisms can sometimes lead us to make choices that can produce more challenges than benefits. I view the therapeutic relationship as a non-judgmental partnership. It is my goal to collaboratively develop new effective ways to manage your distress, improve your relationships, and gain a better sense of who you are.
(407) 917-8462 View (407) 917-8462
Photo of Jennifer Pazmino-Safken, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Jennifer Pazmino-Safken
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Jennifer Safken is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Master's in Counseling. Jennifer believes that growth is the objective in life, whether it will be physically or introspectively. To grow, we must learn about ourselves, our insights, values, thoughts, feelings, reactions, and motivations. Therapy offers unconditional acceptance and tools to pave your path to change.Jennifer Safken is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Master's in Counseling. Jennifer believes that growth is the objective in life, whether it will be p
Jennifer Safken is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Master's in Counseling. Jennifer believes that growth is the objective in life, whether it will be physically or introspectively. To grow, we must learn about ourselves, our insights, values, thoughts, feelings, reactions, and motivations. Therapy offers unconditional acceptance and tools to pave your path to change.Jennifer Safken is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Master's in Counseling. Jennifer believes that growth is the objective in life, whether it will be p
(407) 537-7026 View (407) 537-7026
Photo of Jeremy W Scott, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Jeremy W Scott
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Many experiences over the years led me to value authenticity and to help others find their authentic self. It is my philosophy that we cannot be authentic because of the blockage inside of us; this blockage can inhibit life and cause us to seek many substitutes for true happiness. Many times we encounter difficulties in life and cannot find the answer or tool(s) to help us to continue to be successful. Or, maybe you are a person that feels as though you have never achieved success in your life? Regardless of the reason for you visiting this page today, I am available to help you.
Many experiences over the years led me to value authenticity and to help others find their authentic self. It is my philosophy that we cannot be authentic because of the blockage inside of us; this blockage can inhibit life and cause us to seek many substitutes for true happiness. Many times we encounter difficulties in life and cannot find the answer or tool(s) to help us to continue to be successful. Or, maybe you are a person that feels as though you have never achieved success in your life? Regardless of the reason for you visiting this page today, I am available to help you.
(386) 200-9797 View (386) 200-9797
Photo of Emily Berndt, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Oviedo, FL
Emily Berndt
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Feeling weighed down by life's challenges? Whether you're grappling with anxiety, navigating relationship issues, or feeling stuck in a rut, know that you don't have to do it alone. As a seasoned counselor with a background in supporting children and adolescents, I'm here to offer compassionate guidance to adolescents and adults seeking to improve their mental well-being.
Feeling weighed down by life's challenges? Whether you're grappling with anxiety, navigating relationship issues, or feeling stuck in a rut, know that you don't have to do it alone. As a seasoned counselor with a background in supporting children and adolescents, I'm here to offer compassionate guidance to adolescents and adults seeking to improve their mental well-being.
(407) 205-2802 View (407) 205-2802
Photo of William John Barnett, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
William John Barnett
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Not accepting new clients
I believe everyone has a story to tell. Helping people tell their story can lead to healing. In addition to planning treatment, I believe the therapist's role is to partner with families to uncover the meaning behind the untold story. I currently work as a private practitioner covering a broad range of treatment concerns. My areas of specialty include relationship difficulties, childhood behavior disorders and parenting, as well as specialization with helping teens overcome social and behavior concerns. I also specialize in anxiety disorders, self-esteem and mood disorders.
I believe everyone has a story to tell. Helping people tell their story can lead to healing. In addition to planning treatment, I believe the therapist's role is to partner with families to uncover the meaning behind the untold story. I currently work as a private practitioner covering a broad range of treatment concerns. My areas of specialty include relationship difficulties, childhood behavior disorders and parenting, as well as specialization with helping teens overcome social and behavior concerns. I also specialize in anxiety disorders, self-esteem and mood disorders.
(407) 801-4861 View (407) 801-4861
Photo of Kimberly Fann, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Kimberly Fann
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Not accepting new clients
WOMEN AND YOUNG ADULTS! Ready for support? I'm here for you! When someone seeks counseling in a time of transition, need or stress, they take the first step in self-care. Beginning the counseling process can be scary - but also incredibly rewarding. Maybe you're going through a big change in life, maybe you're a new mom or trying to become a mom, maybe you're having relationship issues, maybe you're trying to navigate all the changes of young adulthood, maybe your teen is struggling and needs help. I believe that developing trust and connection is a very important part of feeling safe and being able to open up, explore and heal.
WOMEN AND YOUNG ADULTS! Ready for support? I'm here for you! When someone seeks counseling in a time of transition, need or stress, they take the first step in self-care. Beginning the counseling process can be scary - but also incredibly rewarding. Maybe you're going through a big change in life, maybe you're a new mom or trying to become a mom, maybe you're having relationship issues, maybe you're trying to navigate all the changes of young adulthood, maybe your teen is struggling and needs help. I believe that developing trust and connection is a very important part of feeling safe and being able to open up, explore and heal.
(407) 604-7322 View (407) 604-7322
Photo of Wade Arnold, Psychologist in Oviedo, FL
Wade Arnold
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
You are here because you want tomorrow to be better than today. You want your marriage to be better. You want your job and relationships to be more meaningful and satisfying. You want to be healthier and feel better about how you look and feel physically. You want tomorrow to be more joyful. You want to feel more alive. You want to love and be loved more deeply. You want more hope! You want to find a therapist who takes the time to know and understand you deeply. You want to find someone you can trust to help you find your better tomorrow.
You are here because you want tomorrow to be better than today. You want your marriage to be better. You want your job and relationships to be more meaningful and satisfying. You want to be healthier and feel better about how you look and feel physically. You want tomorrow to be more joyful. You want to feel more alive. You want to love and be loved more deeply. You want more hope! You want to find a therapist who takes the time to know and understand you deeply. You want to find someone you can trust to help you find your better tomorrow.
(321) 384-3662 View (321) 384-3662
Photo of Jess Loerop, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Oviedo, FL
Jess Loerop
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
It can be frustrating wanting to live a more fulfilling and authentic life but not knowing where or how to start. As your therapist, I aim to help you build a strong foundation for lasting change and personal growth. It's important to me that you feel comfortable and empowered throughout our therapeutic journey together. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself and explore difficult emotions without fear of criticism or rejection.
It can be frustrating wanting to live a more fulfilling and authentic life but not knowing where or how to start. As your therapist, I aim to help you build a strong foundation for lasting change and personal growth. It's important to me that you feel comfortable and empowered throughout our therapeutic journey together. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself and explore difficult emotions without fear of criticism or rejection.
(321) 455-0360 View (321) 455-0360
Photo of Mandy M. Albaugh, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Mandy M. Albaugh
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
People come to my office with hopes of experiencing some sort of positive change. I see my role as creating the environment for change to happen. I view my work with people as collaborative. In other words, the counselor and client work together to set goals and develop the means to meet these goals. I hope to make the person sitting across from me in my office realize that they are their most important resource for making life “work”.
People come to my office with hopes of experiencing some sort of positive change. I see my role as creating the environment for change to happen. I view my work with people as collaborative. In other words, the counselor and client work together to set goals and develop the means to meet these goals. I hope to make the person sitting across from me in my office realize that they are their most important resource for making life “work”.
(407) 494-4526 View (407) 494-4526
Photo of Greater Changes, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Greater Changes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
At Greater Changes, our mission is to empower individuals and communities through the promotion and provision of ethical, evidence-based, and culturally-intentional behavioral health services. We envision a community where the unique cultural perspectives of each individual are valued. We envision a collaborative approach to growth and positive change in a liberated environment. We envision a community that promotes not only individual wellness but also the well-being of families and the community as a whole. Our vision is rooted in liberation, inclusion, and the belief that everyone deserves to thrive.
At Greater Changes, our mission is to empower individuals and communities through the promotion and provision of ethical, evidence-based, and culturally-intentional behavioral health services. We envision a community where the unique cultural perspectives of each individual are valued. We envision a collaborative approach to growth and positive change in a liberated environment. We envision a community that promotes not only individual wellness but also the well-being of families and the community as a whole. Our vision is rooted in liberation, inclusion, and the belief that everyone deserves to thrive.
(321) 334-4680 View (321) 334-4680
Photo of Rob Cravatta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oviedo, FL
Rob Cravatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
Life has taken a toll on you. The people, places, and things you have experienced have brought on this false sense of not being worthy. The traumas of your past cannot be changed but they can be used as tools to make you stronger. Let me help you gather those tools and make it work to your advantage. If you are having difficulty having your needs met in a relationship I can help you express yourself in a way so that you can be understood by communicating effectively. If self-esteem and motivation are lacking, let's come up with some ideas and solutions that can help you gain success.
Life has taken a toll on you. The people, places, and things you have experienced have brought on this false sense of not being worthy. The traumas of your past cannot be changed but they can be used as tools to make you stronger. Let me help you gather those tools and make it work to your advantage. If you are having difficulty having your needs met in a relationship I can help you express yourself in a way so that you can be understood by communicating effectively. If self-esteem and motivation are lacking, let's come up with some ideas and solutions that can help you gain success.
(321) 730-3113 View (321) 730-3113
Photo of Thriving Minds Psychological Services, Psychologist in Oviedo, FL
Thriving Minds Psychological Services
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
Aceptamos pacientes nuevos para citas virtuales. Accepting new patients for Telehealth.
Aceptamos pacientes nuevos para citas virtuales. Accepting new patients for Telehealth.
(407) 982-2047 View (407) 982-2047
Photo of Ute Krantz, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Ute Krantz
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Do you feel "stuck" repeating the same things over and over? Does it feel like you can't seem to move forward? Is anxiety and depression overwhelming you? Do you have trouble creating boundaries and sticking to them? It is very important that you make sure you find the right therapist for you, after all it is about YOUR journey to healing. Contact me for a consultation and see if we are a good fit and if not, I have a vast referral list because healing can only happen if you are working with the right therapist.
Do you feel "stuck" repeating the same things over and over? Does it feel like you can't seem to move forward? Is anxiety and depression overwhelming you? Do you have trouble creating boundaries and sticking to them? It is very important that you make sure you find the right therapist for you, after all it is about YOUR journey to healing. Contact me for a consultation and see if we are a good fit and if not, I have a vast referral list because healing can only happen if you are working with the right therapist.
(321) 337-0209 View (321) 337-0209
Photo of Marylon A. Larkins, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Marylon A. Larkins
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RN
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Marylon Larkins, MA-LMHC-RN and Founder of Complete Life Counseling. She served 25+ yrs as an Oncology RN at Univ Hosp. in Cleveland Ohio. Marylon completed a MA in Counseling at Reformed Theological Seminary. There she developed the skills to counsel for various needs but her passion is Trauma and Faith-Based issues. She is versatile and compassionate with experience to support clients through Trauma, Couples relationship and Stress related to critical health diagnosis. Marylon has extensive understanding of her clients as a complete person and encourages each of them to live a complete life because "All Of Your Life Matters."
Marylon Larkins, MA-LMHC-RN and Founder of Complete Life Counseling. She served 25+ yrs as an Oncology RN at Univ Hosp. in Cleveland Ohio. Marylon completed a MA in Counseling at Reformed Theological Seminary. There she developed the skills to counsel for various needs but her passion is Trauma and Faith-Based issues. She is versatile and compassionate with experience to support clients through Trauma, Couples relationship and Stress related to critical health diagnosis. Marylon has extensive understanding of her clients as a complete person and encourages each of them to live a complete life because "All Of Your Life Matters."
(440) 565-2211 View (440) 565-2211
Photo of Alan Bruns, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Oviedo, FL
Alan Bruns
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Welcome! My name is Alan. I specialize in working with trauma, identity, relationship, and men's issues. We may face various challenges such as anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship issues, and trauma. I provide validation, empathy, and a warm, nurturing environment where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions. This helps to unearth our true selves, cultivate resilience in the face of adversity, and instigate positive transformations. -"By sharing our stories, we realize that we are not alone." - Janet Mock.
Welcome! My name is Alan. I specialize in working with trauma, identity, relationship, and men's issues. We may face various challenges such as anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship issues, and trauma. I provide validation, empathy, and a warm, nurturing environment where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions. This helps to unearth our true selves, cultivate resilience in the face of adversity, and instigate positive transformations. -"By sharing our stories, we realize that we are not alone." - Janet Mock.
(321) 529-0688 View (321) 529-0688
Photo of Blessing E. Pereira, Counselor in Oviedo, FL
Blessing E. Pereira
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
As a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, I see myself as a guide in the counseling relationship to help clients navigate life challenges. I aim to create a culturally sensitive, safe, non-judgmental space that allows for collaboration and exploration of strengths and the development of new skills to promote self-growth.
As a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, I see myself as a guide in the counseling relationship to help clients navigate life challenges. I aim to create a culturally sensitive, safe, non-judgmental space that allows for collaboration and exploration of strengths and the development of new skills to promote self-growth.
(386) 259-6823 View (386) 259-6823

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Oviedo, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Oviedo, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Self Esteem
77% Coping Skills
73% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Cigna and Evernorth
84% Aetna
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Oviedo, FL see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Oviedo?

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.