Therapists in Westerville, OH
Peggy L Lucas
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
Gail Clendenin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Gail Clendenin is a licensed social worker and graduate of The Ohio State University College of Social Work. She treats people age 18 and older and is enthusiastic about working with members of the LGBTQ+, ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous, and kink communities. Gail is working towards certification in EMDR therapy and uses EMDR therapy to help clients work through PTSD and trauma. In Gail's free time, she enjoys writing and running role-playing games.
Gail Clendenin is a licensed social worker and graduate of The Ohio State University College of Social Work. She treats people age 18 and older and is enthusiastic about working with members of the LGBTQ+, ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous, and kink communities. Gail is working towards certification in EMDR therapy and uses EMDR therapy to help clients work through PTSD and trauma. In Gail's free time, she enjoys writing and running role-playing games.
Bradley K. Fox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we hit a wall. Maybe we would usually describe our life as going pretty well, but lately we find it harder to find motivation, or we’re more irritable, anxious, or just plain sad. Sometimes we’ve struggled a long time (with nightmares, stress, bad memories, or feeling depressed) and it's beyond what a friend can help with. Whether your goals are to manage emotions, sleep better, think more clearly, feel better about yourself or key relationships, finally accept what can't be changed, better understand relationship patterns, or find a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life, counseling / psychotherapy may be helpful.
Sometimes we hit a wall. Maybe we would usually describe our life as going pretty well, but lately we find it harder to find motivation, or we’re more irritable, anxious, or just plain sad. Sometimes we’ve struggled a long time (with nightmares, stress, bad memories, or feeling depressed) and it's beyond what a friend can help with. Whether your goals are to manage emotions, sleep better, think more clearly, feel better about yourself or key relationships, finally accept what can't be changed, better understand relationship patterns, or find a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life, counseling / psychotherapy may be helpful.
Eric C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Jill M. McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
Cassandra Tapia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Bonnie Frye
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
Allison Fagan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
Doug Bennett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
Friedman Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
15 Second Videos
Eric C Miller
Jill M. McCullough
Bowen Marshall
Henry Stringer
Diana Cofsky
Carol E McClure
Edward Luersman
Jacqueline Lewis-Lyons
Andie Loiseau
Juliette R Savitscus
Dana Moody
Marcy Lusk
Monarch Counseling
Collin Weekes
Stephanie Ann Jones
Nicole Lawson
Rebecca Austin
Barbara Turman
Joel T Hardin
Kristin McConnell
Sophie Hans
Nikol Bowen
Dani Hanlin
Julia A King
Lacy Purdum
Ann Rippel
Wellness Coaching & Therapy, LLC
Michael Crowdes
Zion Counseling and Wellness Enrichment Center
Capri Cafaro
Shannon Braxton
Davida I. Arnold
Angela Kim
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Wild Hope Therapy
Maggie Reinmann
Kade Hirth
Madison Eagle
Rebecca Flowers Schamess
Erin Beach
Jon Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Jon Lucas is a Licensed Independent Social Worker, who has been practicing for 10 years. He graduated from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH with his Master's Degree in Social Work with a focus on Community practice. Jon believes in client centered therapy and that each person is the expert in the own lives and that each person carriers with them the capacity to overcome life's challenges, sometimes they just need a bit of help to identify this.
Jon Lucas is a Licensed Independent Social Worker, who has been practicing for 10 years. He graduated from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH with his Master's Degree in Social Work with a focus on Community practice. Jon believes in client centered therapy and that each person is the expert in the own lives and that each person carriers with them the capacity to overcome life's challenges, sometimes they just need a bit of help to identify this.
Edwin C Huston
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My life experiences and education have contributed to my interactive CBT approach towards counseling. This approach is a combination of compassion, encouragement and reflective therapeutic focus towards growth and change. My therapy experience includes a successful career in telecommunications, changing careers to provide 15 years of therapeutic guidance in individual, group and family settings.
My life experiences and education have contributed to my interactive CBT approach towards counseling. This approach is a combination of compassion, encouragement and reflective therapeutic focus towards growth and change. My therapy experience includes a successful career in telecommunications, changing careers to provide 15 years of therapeutic guidance in individual, group and family settings.
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43086 (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
Eva Shinka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
Katherine McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Katie McCullough is a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio, Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from The Ohio State University in May 2021. She is currently a graduate student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program and plans to graduate with her MSW in May 2024. Katie is currently interested in utilizing holistic, mind-body-spirit, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy frameworks to treat a wide range of client populations.
Katie McCullough is a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio, Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from The Ohio State University in May 2021. She is currently a graduate student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program and plans to graduate with her MSW in May 2024. Katie is currently interested in utilizing holistic, mind-body-spirit, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy frameworks to treat a wide range of client populations.
Tao Wilkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082 (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
Sara Trembath
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience working with all types of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and complex trauma. My secondary specialties include severe chronic mental illness, relationship problems, recovery from previous domestic violence, LTGBQ+ concerns, self-harm, and developmental or attachment wounds from childhood. I continue to take continuing education classes to improve my knowledge and skills in these areas. I especially enjoy working with clients motivated to improve their lives and willing to take responsibility for their success rather than expecting others to do their work.
I have experience working with all types of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and complex trauma. My secondary specialties include severe chronic mental illness, relationship problems, recovery from previous domestic violence, LTGBQ+ concerns, self-harm, and developmental or attachment wounds from childhood. I continue to take continuing education classes to improve my knowledge and skills in these areas. I especially enjoy working with clients motivated to improve their lives and willing to take responsibility for their success rather than expecting others to do their work.
See more therapy options for Westerville
Nearby Searches for Westerville
- Bexley
- Blacklick
- Columbus
- Dublin
- Gahanna
- Galena
- Lewis Center
- New Albany
- Powell
- Upper Arlington
- Whitehall
- Worthington
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH
300+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
72% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Self Esteem |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
75% | Optum |
69% | Medical Mutual |
How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Westerville?
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
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.
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.
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.