Therapists in North Bergen, NJ

Photo of Jeff Ferrera, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Jeff Ferrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist who best fits your needs and expectations can be hard, and at times cause stress or anxiety. Taking that first step toward beginning your healing journey may seem overwhelming, however it’s a step well worth the investment. It’s my hope that I can assist you in this journey by creating and maintaining a safe, nonjudgmental and consistent therapeutic relationship, which will help to promote growth, change, insight and potential breakthrough. Once this foundation is established, we will then be able to co-create goals, objectives and a clear plan to help you achieve the results you’re looking for.
Finding a therapist who best fits your needs and expectations can be hard, and at times cause stress or anxiety. Taking that first step toward beginning your healing journey may seem overwhelming, however it’s a step well worth the investment. It’s my hope that I can assist you in this journey by creating and maintaining a safe, nonjudgmental and consistent therapeutic relationship, which will help to promote growth, change, insight and potential breakthrough. Once this foundation is established, we will then be able to co-create goals, objectives and a clear plan to help you achieve the results you’re looking for.
(551) 243-6358 View (551) 243-6358
Photo of Roshnee Vázquez, Psychologist in North Bergen, NJ
Roshnee Vázquez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience, working in various settings, with a variety of issues. I have particular interest in: women's health, perinatal mental health, life transitions, severe depression, mood disorders, managing intense emotions with individuals and within partnerships, and supporting individuals in recovery/sobriety. Additionally, my practice is LGBTQ+ friendly.
I have extensive experience, working in various settings, with a variety of issues. I have particular interest in: women's health, perinatal mental health, life transitions, severe depression, mood disorders, managing intense emotions with individuals and within partnerships, and supporting individuals in recovery/sobriety. Additionally, my practice is LGBTQ+ friendly.
(551) 224-0242 View (551) 224-0242
Photo of Larry Levine: Couples Coaching; Clinical Hypnosis in North Bergen, NJ
Larry Levine: Couples Coaching; Clinical Hypnosis
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
With couples, I teach effective and respectful communications. If couples cannot talk to each other with kindness and respect, little can be accomplished. I do take sides, and I name names. Not all issues are 50-50. In fact, most are not. It is important for both members of the couple to understand and realize why they are in crisis, and the role that each party plays. Only then, can each person do the work they need to do alone (in front of their partner).
With couples, I teach effective and respectful communications. If couples cannot talk to each other with kindness and respect, little can be accomplished. I do take sides, and I name names. Not all issues are 50-50. In fact, most are not. It is important for both members of the couple to understand and realize why they are in crisis, and the role that each party plays. Only then, can each person do the work they need to do alone (in front of their partner).
(201) 800-6953 View (201) 800-6953
Photo of Michael DeVita, Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Michael DeVita
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
No one decides to struggle. There are normally very complex and deeply personal reasons a person reaches out for help. Our goal at North Jersey Wellness Center is to help guide you through your life’s journey. Our dedicated team of therapists will help you with any mental health or substance abuse concerns you may be experiencing. ​We use our own unique program and practice in a safe and warm environment of mutual understanding. We aim to put you back in control of your life, help you reconcile with your past, and empower you to embrace the future.
No one decides to struggle. There are normally very complex and deeply personal reasons a person reaches out for help. Our goal at North Jersey Wellness Center is to help guide you through your life’s journey. Our dedicated team of therapists will help you with any mental health or substance abuse concerns you may be experiencing. ​We use our own unique program and practice in a safe and warm environment of mutual understanding. We aim to put you back in control of your life, help you reconcile with your past, and empower you to embrace the future.
(201) 740-5587 View (201) 740-5587
Photo of Luz Melendez, Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Luz Melendez
Counselor, MA, LAC, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Seeking therapy is a deeply personal and courageous decision. As a counselor, I believe that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their thoughts and feeling, free from judgement. With specialties in anger management, anxiety, and gambling addiction, I offer a range of services to support your mental health and well-being. However, my practice extends beyond these areas, and I work with individuals facing a variety of challenges. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and centered around your unique needs and experiences.
Seeking therapy is a deeply personal and courageous decision. As a counselor, I believe that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their thoughts and feeling, free from judgement. With specialties in anger management, anxiety, and gambling addiction, I offer a range of services to support your mental health and well-being. However, my practice extends beyond these areas, and I work with individuals facing a variety of challenges. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and centered around your unique needs and experiences.
(551) 305-3244 View (551) 305-3244
Photo of Claudia Ceron, Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Claudia Ceron
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Muchas veces nuestra vida está consumida por miedos e incertidumbres que no logramos controlar. Hay siempre una esperanza y tenemos la capacidad de cambiar y vivir mejor a través de la terapia. Nuestra misión en North Wellness Jersey Center es ayudarte a reencontrar tus fortalezas y ambiciones para que transformes tu vida de una manera más feliz y saludable. Vivir bien, vivir felices es algo a lo que todos aspiramos y todos podemos alcanzarlo. Permitenos ayudarte en tu camino a tu re-encuentro personal. Nuestro empático y dedicado equipo de terapeutas te ayudará con cualquier problema de salud mental. Llamanos para una consulta.
Muchas veces nuestra vida está consumida por miedos e incertidumbres que no logramos controlar. Hay siempre una esperanza y tenemos la capacidad de cambiar y vivir mejor a través de la terapia. Nuestra misión en North Wellness Jersey Center es ayudarte a reencontrar tus fortalezas y ambiciones para que transformes tu vida de una manera más feliz y saludable. Vivir bien, vivir felices es algo a lo que todos aspiramos y todos podemos alcanzarlo. Permitenos ayudarte en tu camino a tu re-encuentro personal. Nuestro empático y dedicado equipo de terapeutas te ayudará con cualquier problema de salud mental. Llamanos para una consulta.
(201) 862-4937 View (201) 862-4937
Photo of Tali Marcus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Tali Marcus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
If you are reading this, you are looking to make changes in your life. The three areas where I can help you make the changes you are looking for, even if you do not yet know the specifics yourself, are changing how you feel, changing specific behaviors, and changing patterns of thought. I like to work quickly and honestly, but I will tailor your therapy to your individual needs. What this means is that you will be given a safe and judgment free space in which to examine and execute the changes that will lead to a happier and more enjoyable life.
If you are reading this, you are looking to make changes in your life. The three areas where I can help you make the changes you are looking for, even if you do not yet know the specifics yourself, are changing how you feel, changing specific behaviors, and changing patterns of thought. I like to work quickly and honestly, but I will tailor your therapy to your individual needs. What this means is that you will be given a safe and judgment free space in which to examine and execute the changes that will lead to a happier and more enjoyable life.
(551) 213-6298 View (551) 213-6298
Photo of Yen Liao, Pre-Licensed Professional in North Bergen, NJ
Yen Liao
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHCI
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Are you having a hard time managing your emotions or thoughts? Perhaps the combination of personal and systemic stressors is making life more challenging. Navigating America as a person of color and/or first-generation identity can be particularly tough, putting your authentic self to the test. This may be affecting your capacity to focus on work, relationships, or daily tasks. Amidst these challenges, it's important to feel understood and seen. You deserve a nurturing and inclusive space where you can express or discover your needs and desires to be your best self.
Are you having a hard time managing your emotions or thoughts? Perhaps the combination of personal and systemic stressors is making life more challenging. Navigating America as a person of color and/or first-generation identity can be particularly tough, putting your authentic self to the test. This may be affecting your capacity to focus on work, relationships, or daily tasks. Amidst these challenges, it's important to feel understood and seen. You deserve a nurturing and inclusive space where you can express or discover your needs and desires to be your best self.
(551) 296-7634 View (551) 296-7634
Photo of Mark Alan Zilberman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Mark Alan Zilberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I work with adults and adolescents facing difficulties and/or wanting to better their lives from the inside out. I am assisting you to find the irrational thoughts that cause problematic moods.. Sessions are collaborative, interesting, challenging.... I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, grief and loss, stress management and work/career issues.
I work with adults and adolescents facing difficulties and/or wanting to better their lives from the inside out. I am assisting you to find the irrational thoughts that cause problematic moods.. Sessions are collaborative, interesting, challenging.... I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, grief and loss, stress management and work/career issues.
(201) 357-6657 View (201) 357-6657
Photo of Valentin Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Valentin Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angelina. I go beyond labels to focus on the individual, taking a holistic, person-centered approach to treatment. I specialize working with individuals experiencing major life transitions, trauma, grief/loss and scary but exciting new beginnings. I help individuals discover the great wisdom and truth that they have already hidden within them! No matter where in your life you are struggling, together we will establish a personalized care plan. With compassion, experience, skill, and a bit of humor; I aim to help my clients get out of their own way and achieve greater satisfaction with their life and relationships.
Hello! My name is Angelina. I go beyond labels to focus on the individual, taking a holistic, person-centered approach to treatment. I specialize working with individuals experiencing major life transitions, trauma, grief/loss and scary but exciting new beginnings. I help individuals discover the great wisdom and truth that they have already hidden within them! No matter where in your life you are struggling, together we will establish a personalized care plan. With compassion, experience, skill, and a bit of humor; I aim to help my clients get out of their own way and achieve greater satisfaction with their life and relationships.
(201) 431-0565 View (201) 431-0565
Photo of Salvador Reyes, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Salvador Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCS, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Everyone’s mental health and wellness journey is different. We, at the North Jersey Wellness Center take your experiences, background, beliefs, and lifestyle to help you navigate through your life. We will work together to create a treatment plan based on your unique needs, challenges, and goals. Finding the right care for our clients is our primary goal. We focus on what matters to you, to achieve the results you want.
Everyone’s mental health and wellness journey is different. We, at the North Jersey Wellness Center take your experiences, background, beliefs, and lifestyle to help you navigate through your life. We will work together to create a treatment plan based on your unique needs, challenges, and goals. Finding the right care for our clients is our primary goal. We focus on what matters to you, to achieve the results you want.
(551) 239-1297 View (551) 239-1297
Photo of Crystal Beckwith, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Crystal Beckwith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you or your child struggling with worry and panic? Do you find emotions and coping with life overwhelming? When anxiety feels out of control, it can take it's toll on every aspect of life. Whether you are struggling with social anxiety or the parent of child with high stress levels; now might be the time to get help.
Are you or your child struggling with worry and panic? Do you find emotions and coping with life overwhelming? When anxiety feels out of control, it can take it's toll on every aspect of life. Whether you are struggling with social anxiety or the parent of child with high stress levels; now might be the time to get help.
(732) 204-8195 View (732) 204-8195
Photo of Mindful Living Counseling & Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Mindful Living Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Mindful Living Counseling & Wellness Center, our aim is to help you achieve your best self and overcome obstacles that hinder your progress and growth. We work with a positive focus on each individual and provide a multicultural environment where compassionate support aligns with professional expertise. We're pleased to share that Marcela had the honor of being featured as an expert on a popular Telemundo television program, where she shared her insights and guidance. This recognition reflects the exceptional skills and knowledge of our practice in the field of psychology.
Mindful Living Counseling & Wellness Center, our aim is to help you achieve your best self and overcome obstacles that hinder your progress and growth. We work with a positive focus on each individual and provide a multicultural environment where compassionate support aligns with professional expertise. We're pleased to share that Marcela had the honor of being featured as an expert on a popular Telemundo television program, where she shared her insights and guidance. This recognition reflects the exceptional skills and knowledge of our practice in the field of psychology.
(201) 920-7566 View (201) 920-7566
Photo of Lara Seymour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Lara Seymour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Seeking help is a sign of strength. You don't have to feel alone or helpless. Dealing promptly with your psychological and social problems is essential for you and the people you love and care about. Together we can uncover solutions to help you live your happy, healthy life. Are you going through difficult times? You and I will work together to help you gain control over emotions, achieve safer and closer relationships, bring improvements in your behavior, reduce or eliminate unwanted and distressing thoughts, restore lost motivation, or just recover the joy of life.
Seeking help is a sign of strength. You don't have to feel alone or helpless. Dealing promptly with your psychological and social problems is essential for you and the people you love and care about. Together we can uncover solutions to help you live your happy, healthy life. Are you going through difficult times? You and I will work together to help you gain control over emotions, achieve safer and closer relationships, bring improvements in your behavior, reduce or eliminate unwanted and distressing thoughts, restore lost motivation, or just recover the joy of life.
(201) 561-8544 View (201) 561-8544
Photo of Christian Muriel, Counselor in North Bergen, NJ
Christian Muriel
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Everyone’s journey to better their mental health is different and I will work with you to meet your goals. We will work together to create a treatment plan based on your unique needs, challenges, and goals. Finding the right care for my clients is my primary goal. I focus on what matters to you, to achieve the results you want.
Everyone’s journey to better their mental health is different and I will work with you to meet your goals. We will work together to create a treatment plan based on your unique needs, challenges, and goals. Finding the right care for my clients is my primary goal. I focus on what matters to you, to achieve the results you want.
(201) 584-9035 View (201) 584-9035
Photo of The Psych Center, Psychologist in North Bergen, NJ
The Psych Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Welcome to the Psych Center. We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call: 201-606-2592 or email us.
Welcome to the Psych Center. We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call: 201-606-2592 or email us.
(201) 559-8797 View (201) 559-8797
Photo of Luisa A Contreras, Psychologist in North Bergen, NJ
Luisa A Contreras
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Psychologist licensed in New York and New Jersey. I have extensive experience working with such conditions as anxiety, depression, work-related stress, grief/loss, life transitions, parenting issues, relationship issues, developmental trauma, racial trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I trained in psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral and emotionally-focused therapy with individuals, couples, parents and families. My approach to psychotherapy is integrative as I draw from traditional insight-oriented and cognitive therapies as well as experiential body/mind, and psychobiological techniques.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Psychologist licensed in New York and New Jersey. I have extensive experience working with such conditions as anxiety, depression, work-related stress, grief/loss, life transitions, parenting issues, relationship issues, developmental trauma, racial trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I trained in psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral and emotionally-focused therapy with individuals, couples, parents and families. My approach to psychotherapy is integrative as I draw from traditional insight-oriented and cognitive therapies as well as experiential body/mind, and psychobiological techniques.
(201) 907-2120 View (201) 907-2120
Photo of Mark Chapman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Mark Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047
The belief here is that we are born with the ability to self-generate the changes we might be seeking at any point in the life-span. Therapy, then, is collaboration: client and therapist cooperatively removing those "inner" obstacles that can block the natural growth process--that can make us feel so dishearteningly stuck or so hopelessly overwhelmed. Therapy represents a challenging opportunity. The expectation is always that my clients will find reward in this focused collaboration, as well as in its results--and in as few sessions as possible.
The belief here is that we are born with the ability to self-generate the changes we might be seeking at any point in the life-span. Therapy, then, is collaboration: client and therapist cooperatively removing those "inner" obstacles that can block the natural growth process--that can make us feel so dishearteningly stuck or so hopelessly overwhelmed. Therapy represents a challenging opportunity. The expectation is always that my clients will find reward in this focused collaboration, as well as in its results--and in as few sessions as possible.
(201) 977-6415 View (201) 977-6415
Photo of Maritza I Bido, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Maritza I Bido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Therapy helps! So if you are feeling anxious, depressed or stuck in self-defeating actions that don't allow you to reach your goals, I am committed to work with you in finding those solutions. I am a psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 20 years. My experience has focused on children and adolescents with ADHD, Teen Issues, Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Family Struggles.
Therapy helps! So if you are feeling anxious, depressed or stuck in self-defeating actions that don't allow you to reach your goals, I am committed to work with you in finding those solutions. I am a psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 20 years. My experience has focused on children and adolescents with ADHD, Teen Issues, Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Family Struggles.
(201) 877-5020 View (201) 877-5020
Photo of Dolly R Sacristan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bergen, NJ
Dolly R Sacristan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New Jersey and I have been in practice for over fifteen years. I provide individual (children and adults), couples and family therapy. My work is guided by humanist principles that foster the growth of individuals in a therapeutic milieu. These include genuineness, acceptance and empathy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New Jersey and I have been in practice for over fifteen years. I provide individual (children and adults), couples and family therapy. My work is guided by humanist principles that foster the growth of individuals in a therapeutic milieu. These include genuineness, acceptance and empathy.
(201) 528-1740 View (201) 528-1740

See more therapy options for North Bergen

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in North Bergen, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in North Bergen, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
98% Depression
88% Stress
72% Life Transitions
68% Family Conflict
65% Trauma and PTSD
63% Grief

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
16% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in North Bergen, NJ see their clients

80% Online Only
20% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in North Bergen?

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.