Therapists in Cleveland, MS

Photo of Solutions For Change, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, MS
Solutions For Change, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, MS 38732
Do you feel like you can't move forward, invisible, misunderstood, outcasted, unappreciated, or your voice doesn't matter? Finding spaces where you can truly show up as your whole self without fear of judgment can be challenging. More than ever, people need a support system that guides them through life changes. You may feel like you have lost yourself in the twist and turns of life, but you can talk about it, and together, we can find solutions for change.
Do you feel like you can't move forward, invisible, misunderstood, outcasted, unappreciated, or your voice doesn't matter? Finding spaces where you can truly show up as your whole self without fear of judgment can be challenging. More than ever, people need a support system that guides them through life changes. You may feel like you have lost yourself in the twist and turns of life, but you can talk about it, and together, we can find solutions for change.
(662) 793-3085 View (662) 793-3085
Photo of Cathy C Foster Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Cathy C Foster Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC- S
Verified Verified
Cleveland, MS 38732
Life is a journey. It is full of ups and downs. You need balance to promote your mental, physical, and spiritual health to become the whole person that God intended you to be. Sometimes there are obstacles in your lives that keep you from reaching your full potential. Life can throw curve balls such as divorce, family issues, behavioral problems with your children. Whatever the problem, you need help in redefining your situation and getting better insight and resources into solutions for those problems. You have strengths and abilities within that can be utilized to help regain your hope and healing. Let's begin the journey together
Life is a journey. It is full of ups and downs. You need balance to promote your mental, physical, and spiritual health to become the whole person that God intended you to be. Sometimes there are obstacles in your lives that keep you from reaching your full potential. Life can throw curve balls such as divorce, family issues, behavioral problems with your children. Whatever the problem, you need help in redefining your situation and getting better insight and resources into solutions for those problems. You have strengths and abilities within that can be utilized to help regain your hope and healing. Let's begin the journey together
(662) 985-6884 View (662) 985-6884
Photo of Ginny Pantin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, MS
Ginny Pantin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, MS 38732
Are you looking to gain insight and work to engage your best self? I think treatment offers the opportunity to share feelings, thoughts, and situations in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I take a person-centered generalist approach in treatment to ensure that your treatment plan is adapted to best fit your desires and personality style. I offer over 10 years of experience in treating individuals, families, and couples. I offer treatment to all age groups to include children as young as three, teens, adults, and seniors.
Are you looking to gain insight and work to engage your best self? I think treatment offers the opportunity to share feelings, thoughts, and situations in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I take a person-centered generalist approach in treatment to ensure that your treatment plan is adapted to best fit your desires and personality style. I offer over 10 years of experience in treating individuals, families, and couples. I offer treatment to all age groups to include children as young as three, teens, adults, and seniors.
(662) 214-6983 View (662) 214-6983
Photo of Count It All Joy Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Count It All Joy Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, MS 38732
Many of us live our lives balancing one life event after another. All is well until that ONE MORE THING happens! Some people lash out on others or suddenly experience an overwhelming flood of emotions. Others lose interest in activities or have a change in their sleeping or eating habits. Coping with stress, relationship issues, and other life events may cause depression, anxiety, or other emotional responses. Many of my clients have been able to find better ways to cope with their "series of unfortunate events." Empowering clients to find positive strategies to COUNT IT ALL JOY again is at the heart of what I do.
Many of us live our lives balancing one life event after another. All is well until that ONE MORE THING happens! Some people lash out on others or suddenly experience an overwhelming flood of emotions. Others lose interest in activities or have a change in their sleeping or eating habits. Coping with stress, relationship issues, and other life events may cause depression, anxiety, or other emotional responses. Many of my clients have been able to find better ways to cope with their "series of unfortunate events." Empowering clients to find positive strategies to COUNT IT ALL JOY again is at the heart of what I do.
(769) 287-7027 View (769) 287-7027
Photo of Verlon Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, MS
Verlon Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSWS
Verified Verified
Cleveland, MS 38732
Being a therapist motivates and give me purpose. Everyone experience life changes, but not everyone is prepared to manage the emotional, physical, social or financial changes that come with life changes. Feelings emotionally overwhelmed can affect the ability to make rational decisions. The inability to make rational decisions disrupts connection with self, reality, family and friends. As a Licensed Clinical social worker I am licensed to diagnose and treat. You are not alone and should never feel you are. I practice in an outpatient setting. My passion is helping patients move from a place of despair to optimism.
Being a therapist motivates and give me purpose. Everyone experience life changes, but not everyone is prepared to manage the emotional, physical, social or financial changes that come with life changes. Feelings emotionally overwhelmed can affect the ability to make rational decisions. The inability to make rational decisions disrupts connection with self, reality, family and friends. As a Licensed Clinical social worker I am licensed to diagnose and treat. You are not alone and should never feel you are. I practice in an outpatient setting. My passion is helping patients move from a place of despair to optimism.
(662) 262-6486 View (662) 262-6486
Photo of Dr. Kristy Laster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Dr. Kristy Laster
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC-S, NCSC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, MS 38732
Not accepting new clients
Life happens, and when it does it may seem that things are out of control and just aren’t getting better. Sometimes trials of life happen all at once, and at other times it seems like they build up over time causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. Life’s trials can cause you to go into survival mode where you struggle to make it from day to day and week to week. Does this sound familiar? Do you need support in resolving your current concerns to restore your life to a better state and a more balanced way of living?
Life happens, and when it does it may seem that things are out of control and just aren’t getting better. Sometimes trials of life happen all at once, and at other times it seems like they build up over time causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. Life’s trials can cause you to go into survival mode where you struggle to make it from day to day and week to week. Does this sound familiar? Do you need support in resolving your current concerns to restore your life to a better state and a more balanced way of living?
(601) 488-3128 View (601) 488-3128

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley N Brooks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Ashley N Brooks
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, NCC, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Boyle, MS 38730
Ashley Brooks Counseling Services, Inc. In Ms Brooks Counseling & Consultants, LLc in Little Rock, AR Striving for person centered and trauma informed care. Depression, anxiety, grief, behavior disorders, mood disorders, couples relates issues, work stress, alcohol and drug abuse counseling, addiction counselling, etc
Ashley Brooks Counseling Services, Inc. In Ms Brooks Counseling & Consultants, LLc in Little Rock, AR Striving for person centered and trauma informed care. Depression, anxiety, grief, behavior disorders, mood disorders, couples relates issues, work stress, alcohol and drug abuse counseling, addiction counselling, etc
(855) 598-3824 View (855) 598-3824

Online Therapists

Photo of Adole Muruako, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Adole Muruako
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Oxford, MS 38655
Waitlist for new clients
Are you someone experiencing unresolved trauma and chronic stress? Does this show up in physical ways for you, like tiredness, physical pain, etc.? So many of us long for resolution, aiming to heal physically and navigate the world with emotional well-being. If so, I'd like to provide a safe space for you to explore what you're experiencing and offer support in your healing journey. Our ultimate goal together will be for you to find transformation, identify root causes, and develop resilience and healthy coping mechanisms to restore balance, reclaim agency, and live authentically, free from the constraints of your past.
Are you someone experiencing unresolved trauma and chronic stress? Does this show up in physical ways for you, like tiredness, physical pain, etc.? So many of us long for resolution, aiming to heal physically and navigate the world with emotional well-being. If so, I'd like to provide a safe space for you to explore what you're experiencing and offer support in your healing journey. Our ultimate goal together will be for you to find transformation, identify root causes, and develop resilience and healthy coping mechanisms to restore balance, reclaim agency, and live authentically, free from the constraints of your past.
(662) 503-8716 View (662) 503-8716
Photo of Wendy Maxwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, MS
Wendy Maxwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgeland, MS 39157
If you desire to decrease anxiety and depression, I can help. I work with women and teenagers to improve their ability to handle stress, hardship, and change so that they can achieve a new perspective and peace of mind. You may have come to realize the same old responses and attitudes are not helping and maybe even hurting. Perhaps it is debilitating thoughts and fears of what comes next that are paralyzing you.
If you desire to decrease anxiety and depression, I can help. I work with women and teenagers to improve their ability to handle stress, hardship, and change so that they can achieve a new perspective and peace of mind. You may have come to realize the same old responses and attitudes are not helping and maybe even hurting. Perhaps it is debilitating thoughts and fears of what comes next that are paralyzing you.
(769) 201-1392 View (769) 201-1392
Photo of Daniel A Barnes, Psychologist in Cleveland, MS
Daniel A Barnes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clinton, MS 39056
Dr. Barnes is a native Mississippian, earning his B.A. in Psychology from Delta State University in Cleveland, MS, and his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Jackson State University in Jackson, MS. He has worked in academic, private, community, school, and state psychiatric settings as well as VA medical centers. Dr. Barnes completed his internship at the VA North Texas Health Care System followed by a fellowship at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, specializing in addictive disorders.
Dr. Barnes is a native Mississippian, earning his B.A. in Psychology from Delta State University in Cleveland, MS, and his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Jackson State University in Jackson, MS. He has worked in academic, private, community, school, and state psychiatric settings as well as VA medical centers. Dr. Barnes completed his internship at the VA North Texas Health Care System followed by a fellowship at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, specializing in addictive disorders.
(601) 488-2618 View (601) 488-2618
Photo of Dawn M Ellison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Dawn M Ellison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, MS 39110
Waitlist for new clients
In today's fast-paced world it is easy to become overwhelmed. Having someone to provide support and insight can lessen the burden. Whether you are struggling from past issues that were never addressed, current issues that have popped up, or both, I am here to help. I believe that in dealing with the effects the past has on us in the present, suffering can not only be healed but transformed. I want my clients to find resolution with their past, peace in the present, and excitement for what their future holds.
In today's fast-paced world it is easy to become overwhelmed. Having someone to provide support and insight can lessen the burden. Whether you are struggling from past issues that were never addressed, current issues that have popped up, or both, I am here to help. I believe that in dealing with the effects the past has on us in the present, suffering can not only be healed but transformed. I want my clients to find resolution with their past, peace in the present, and excitement for what their future holds.
(601) 427-9154 View (601) 427-9154
Photo of Marty Forsythe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Marty Forsythe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, - LTC, USAF, Retired
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38672
I believe that all people have the capacity for immense change and growth. Together, we work to solve problems, confront relationship conflict and address personal concerns. My goal as a clinician is to assist you with making life affirming choices that lead to a healthier lifestyle. Often times, people have experienced negative life experiences that block a person's natural processing abilities. By using EMDR Therapy, we can reprocess those negative life experiences and allow the natural process of healing to take place, resulting in the reduction of suffering and symptoms.
I believe that all people have the capacity for immense change and growth. Together, we work to solve problems, confront relationship conflict and address personal concerns. My goal as a clinician is to assist you with making life affirming choices that lead to a healthier lifestyle. Often times, people have experienced negative life experiences that block a person's natural processing abilities. By using EMDR Therapy, we can reprocess those negative life experiences and allow the natural process of healing to take place, resulting in the reduction of suffering and symptoms.
(833) 929-1283 View (833) 929-1283
Photo of Ashley Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Ashley Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Madison, MS 39110
I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2005, and have professional experience working with children/teens and adults as they walk through anxiety, grief, parenting, school issues, bullying, food allergies, family changes, and many other challenges that impact people or their family. I especially enjoy working with women who are navigating life transitions (such as parenting or empty nesting) as well as children who experience anxiety. I became a counselor because I believe every life has an inherent, priceless worth. It is my honor to walk alongside others as they discover how valuable they truly are.
I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2005, and have professional experience working with children/teens and adults as they walk through anxiety, grief, parenting, school issues, bullying, food allergies, family changes, and many other challenges that impact people or their family. I especially enjoy working with women who are navigating life transitions (such as parenting or empty nesting) as well as children who experience anxiety. I became a counselor because I believe every life has an inherent, priceless worth. It is my honor to walk alongside others as they discover how valuable they truly are.
(601) 800-5515 View (601) 800-5515
Photo of Bethany Glass, Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Bethany Glass
Counselor, LPC, MA MHC, MBA
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, MS 39157
I have a wide range of experience in addiction, complex trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and family issues. I use a wide range of methods including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and talk therapy to help clients in working through past trauma and to build coping skills to live a healthier and happier life.
I have a wide range of experience in addiction, complex trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and family issues. I use a wide range of methods including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and talk therapy to help clients in working through past trauma and to build coping skills to live a healthier and happier life.
(601) 891-1822 View (601) 891-1822
Photo of Matthew G Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, MS
Matthew G Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vicksburg, MS 39180
Often times life presents many us challenges causing us to need the support of someone else. For the past 14 years, I have been working with clients as a mental health provider recover from life's challenges successfully. I strive to provide a safe space for my clients to; heal from their past hurts, become mindful of the present moment, and identify goals for their future.
Often times life presents many us challenges causing us to need the support of someone else. For the past 14 years, I have been working with clients as a mental health provider recover from life's challenges successfully. I strive to provide a safe space for my clients to; heal from their past hurts, become mindful of the present moment, and identify goals for their future.
(601) 843-2938 View (601) 843-2938
Photo of Meaghan O'Connor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Meaghan O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oxford, MS 38655
I especially enjoy working with are those who have had no prior counseling experience or who have had negative experiences in counseling settings; I value the time it takes to build the foundation for a trusting and safe relationship.
I especially enjoy working with are those who have had no prior counseling experience or who have had negative experiences in counseling settings; I value the time it takes to build the foundation for a trusting and safe relationship.
(662) 291-7675 View (662) 291-7675
Photo of Kevin W Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Kevin W Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ridgeland, MS 39157
Waitlist for new clients
Kevin Armstrong provides professional counseling to families, couples and adult individuals. Kevin received his undergraduate degree from Mississippi State University and his Masters of Arts in Counseling from Colorado Christian University. Kevin is dedicated to providing the highest standard of professional service while remaining respectful, nonjudgmental, and is well equipped to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, marriage and family problems, addiction, parenting difficulties, and more.
Kevin Armstrong provides professional counseling to families, couples and adult individuals. Kevin received his undergraduate degree from Mississippi State University and his Masters of Arts in Counseling from Colorado Christian University. Kevin is dedicated to providing the highest standard of professional service while remaining respectful, nonjudgmental, and is well equipped to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, marriage and family problems, addiction, parenting difficulties, and more.
(662) 246-2425 View (662) 246-2425
Photo of LeFleur Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Cleveland, MS
LeFleur Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, MS 39110
LeFleur Behavioral Health offers gold-standard, evidence based psychological testing and psychotherapy solutions for a wide variety of mental health needs. We specialize in psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain, stress, and bereavement, as well as many other psychological difficulties. We also provide psychological testing for intellectual and academic functioning, ADHD, personality testing, and pre-procedure evaluation for pain and bariatric procedures. Our psychologists, Dr. Walter Rueff and Dr. James Broussard are happy to speak with you.
LeFleur Behavioral Health offers gold-standard, evidence based psychological testing and psychotherapy solutions for a wide variety of mental health needs. We specialize in psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain, stress, and bereavement, as well as many other psychological difficulties. We also provide psychological testing for intellectual and academic functioning, ADHD, personality testing, and pre-procedure evaluation for pain and bariatric procedures. Our psychologists, Dr. Walter Rueff and Dr. James Broussard are happy to speak with you.
(769) 227-4067 View (769) 227-4067
Photo of Collin Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, MS
Collin Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Oxford, MS 38655
Hey there, superstar! You've decided to open Pandora's box into the remarkable world of...YOU! Get ready to take on the roller-coaster ride of understanding your emotions. Itching to meet your worries like anxiety, depression, or trauma up close and personal? Maybe you're wrestling with the confusion of life transitions, or untangling the mystery of your sexuality? Welcome aboard the wild ride of healing! Young or old, I've got your back! Don’t worry, we’ll work together at your pace, whether that's a baby crawl or a marathon sprint. Looking forward to becoming your dedicated personal trainer… for the soul. Excited? I sure am!
Hey there, superstar! You've decided to open Pandora's box into the remarkable world of...YOU! Get ready to take on the roller-coaster ride of understanding your emotions. Itching to meet your worries like anxiety, depression, or trauma up close and personal? Maybe you're wrestling with the confusion of life transitions, or untangling the mystery of your sexuality? Welcome aboard the wild ride of healing! Young or old, I've got your back! Don’t worry, we’ll work together at your pace, whether that's a baby crawl or a marathon sprint. Looking forward to becoming your dedicated personal trainer… for the soul. Excited? I sure am!
(662) 570-4022 View (662) 570-4022
Photo of Camille Eiland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, MS
Camille Eiland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ridgeland, MS 39157
By providing a client-centered approach to therapy, I hope to bring safety and warmth to the therapy room. I utilize an integrated approach that synthesizes my Christian values with research-based practices in order to give the very best care unique to each individual. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental atmosphere where you can be truly heard and understood. My desire is to work together collaboratively as a team with you, providing acceptance and support.
By providing a client-centered approach to therapy, I hope to bring safety and warmth to the therapy room. I utilize an integrated approach that synthesizes my Christian values with research-based practices in order to give the very best care unique to each individual. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental atmosphere where you can be truly heard and understood. My desire is to work together collaboratively as a team with you, providing acceptance and support.
(601) 202-5339 View (601) 202-5339

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cleveland, MS

< 10

Therapists in Cleveland, MS who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Coping Skills
83% Anger Management

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% Aetna

How Therapists in Cleveland, MS see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cleveland?

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.