Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA

Photo of Refresh Therapy, Inc - Spokane Valley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Refresh Therapy, Inc - Spokane Valley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC, LICSW, LMFTA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99216
We are a group of dynamic therapists, in multiple Washington state locations. Our goal was to create a place for you to settle in and tell your story. Everybody has one, and we want to hear yours. Counseling is a process that encourages you to examine your choices, your thoughts, your dreams, your barriers and your pain in an effort to create the positive change you are seeking in your life. We believe that successful counseling is a collaborative experience between you and your therapist; that finding the right fit is vital to that success.
We are a group of dynamic therapists, in multiple Washington state locations. Our goal was to create a place for you to settle in and tell your story. Everybody has one, and we want to hear yours. Counseling is a process that encourages you to examine your choices, your thoughts, your dreams, your barriers and your pain in an effort to create the positive change you are seeking in your life. We believe that successful counseling is a collaborative experience between you and your therapist; that finding the right fit is vital to that success.
(509) 260-2776 View (509) 260-2776
Photo of David Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
David Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about working with older teens as they make their way into the world and adults as they build healthy, successful lives. I partners with clients who struggle with unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem /or ADHD. My goals is to help them process their past, gain coping skills, and find a new perspective on the way to healing and inner peace. I provide a lot is a lot of psychoeducation and vocabulary as I have found that sometimes clients (to no fault of their own) just don’t have the words to describe what is causing the distress. I love to utilize EMDR to help process hopefully resolve the distress
I am passionate about working with older teens as they make their way into the world and adults as they build healthy, successful lives. I partners with clients who struggle with unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem /or ADHD. My goals is to help them process their past, gain coping skills, and find a new perspective on the way to healing and inner peace. I provide a lot is a lot of psychoeducation and vocabulary as I have found that sometimes clients (to no fault of their own) just don’t have the words to describe what is causing the distress. I love to utilize EMDR to help process hopefully resolve the distress
(509) 740-0237 View (509) 740-0237
Photo of Krystyl W. Miyamoto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Krystyl W. Miyamoto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99016  (Online Only)
As a licensed mental health clinician, I am here to help you achieve personal empowerment in all areas of your life. I will help guide you in addressing issues that may be present in your life, that you feel, might be holding you back from reaching your goals. I offer help with navigating anxiety, depression, phase of life transitions, parenting, sexuality, gender, chronic pain/illness, perinatal mood disorders and more. I am an LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming therapist navigating gender identity, inclusion and equity. Let’s work together to actively identify and start living by your own personally empowered best life!
As a licensed mental health clinician, I am here to help you achieve personal empowerment in all areas of your life. I will help guide you in addressing issues that may be present in your life, that you feel, might be holding you back from reaching your goals. I offer help with navigating anxiety, depression, phase of life transitions, parenting, sexuality, gender, chronic pain/illness, perinatal mood disorders and more. I am an LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming therapist navigating gender identity, inclusion and equity. Let’s work together to actively identify and start living by your own personally empowered best life!
(509) 260-2598 View (509) 260-2598
Photo of Laura Schrotenboer, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Laura Schrotenboer
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Not accepting new clients
Everything we do is an attempt to meet our needs. Life is full of unexpected challenges, and sometimes these challenges overwhelm us. We may find that our old ways of handling challenges are no longer working, and we need some help finding new strategies or new supports. I am here to help you express your needs in a healthier way and develop new skills. I have worked with both youth and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, helping them understand what lies beneath the here and now.
Everything we do is an attempt to meet our needs. Life is full of unexpected challenges, and sometimes these challenges overwhelm us. We may find that our old ways of handling challenges are no longer working, and we need some help finding new strategies or new supports. I am here to help you express your needs in a healthier way and develop new skills. I have worked with both youth and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, helping them understand what lies beneath the here and now.
(509) 215-1595 View (509) 215-1595
Photo of Alicia J Loiler, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Alicia J Loiler
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
As a therapist, I believe everyone has inherent value, and I want to create a space where every person feels safe, confident and comfortable. As well as meeting people where they are and help them rediscover their intrinsic value, worth, and develop self-compassion and self-worth. There are challenges in life that are hard. I will work to empower you and to help you become the best and strongest version of yourself. My goal is to walk along side you through this process. We all face challenges in life but sometimes we need someone to support and cheer us on.
As a therapist, I believe everyone has inherent value, and I want to create a space where every person feels safe, confident and comfortable. As well as meeting people where they are and help them rediscover their intrinsic value, worth, and develop self-compassion and self-worth. There are challenges in life that are hard. I will work to empower you and to help you become the best and strongest version of yourself. My goal is to walk along side you through this process. We all face challenges in life but sometimes we need someone to support and cheer us on.
(509) 517-7754 View (509) 517-7754
Photo of Victoria Facciola Riverside Therapy Center, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Victoria Facciola Riverside Therapy Center
Counselor, PhDCand, LMHC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99016
Now accepting new clients! I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes! I want to honor that and I want to make your experience in therapy meaningful and purposeful in your life. We all experience mental health challenges throughout life and we are all deserving of help. I hope that you trust me with your life stories.
Now accepting new clients! I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes! I want to honor that and I want to make your experience in therapy meaningful and purposeful in your life. We all experience mental health challenges throughout life and we are all deserving of help. I hope that you trust me with your life stories.
(509) 774-3449 View (509) 774-3449
Photo of Angela Dee Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Angela Dee Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Let’s nourish and find clarity within ourselves by healing. Through your life experiences you have gained the ability to manage these life challenges. Today you may find yourself struggling with the skills that once helped you overcome your Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Traumatic Event’s. Through therapeutic approach’s together we can find your healing. Together we will learn and process these life challenges no matter what your life-stage might be. Let’s empower your deeper scene of hope, purpose, and positive self-esteem. Allowing yourself to live your best possible life.
Let’s nourish and find clarity within ourselves by healing. Through your life experiences you have gained the ability to manage these life challenges. Today you may find yourself struggling with the skills that once helped you overcome your Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Traumatic Event’s. Through therapeutic approach’s together we can find your healing. Together we will learn and process these life challenges no matter what your life-stage might be. Let’s empower your deeper scene of hope, purpose, and positive self-esteem. Allowing yourself to live your best possible life.
(509) 213-1704 View (509) 213-1704
Photo of Matthias James Barker, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Matthias James Barker
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
My goal is to help the people I work with move towards what is meaningful in life amidst a history of trauma and hardship.
My goal is to help the people I work with move towards what is meaningful in life amidst a history of trauma and hardship.
Photo of Juliann K Haffey, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Juliann K Haffey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I treat adolescents and adults. My most common method of treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy. I provide assistance to those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, sadness or grief, adjustment issues, relationship issues, problem-solving skills, and life skills. I also specialize in parent/child attachment and sports psychology. Please contact me by voicemail or text at 509.385.0292. You can also reach me by email at juliann.haffey@gmail.com
I treat adolescents and adults. My most common method of treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy. I provide assistance to those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, sadness or grief, adjustment issues, relationship issues, problem-solving skills, and life skills. I also specialize in parent/child attachment and sports psychology. Please contact me by voicemail or text at 509.385.0292. You can also reach me by email at juliann.haffey@gmail.com
(509) 822-2913 View (509) 822-2913
Photo of Skybridge Counseling and Psychiatry, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Skybridge Counseling and Psychiatry
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Experiencing mental health challenges is a normal part of being human: in adulthood, adolescence, and childhood. Sometimes those challenges feel too big to untangle on your own. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, there is hope. It can be scary to take the first steps, but we at Skybridge Counseling are here to help.
Experiencing mental health challenges is a normal part of being human: in adulthood, adolescence, and childhood. Sometimes those challenges feel too big to untangle on your own. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, there is hope. It can be scary to take the first steps, but we at Skybridge Counseling are here to help.
(509) 581-5343 View (509) 581-5343
Photo of Cortney Rasley, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Cortney Rasley
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206  (Online Only)
Whether you struggle with depression or anxiety, have experienced abuse or other traumas, want help with marital issues or other relationships, have difficulties with family dynamics or parenting, or just need a sounding board and safe place to manage other life struggles; my desire is to help you improve your emotional well-being and overall quality of life. I believe that all people deserve to feel safety, security, love, hope, and a sense of belonging; no matter what they have endured. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, adults, families and married couples.
Whether you struggle with depression or anxiety, have experienced abuse or other traumas, want help with marital issues or other relationships, have difficulties with family dynamics or parenting, or just need a sounding board and safe place to manage other life struggles; my desire is to help you improve your emotional well-being and overall quality of life. I believe that all people deserve to feel safety, security, love, hope, and a sense of belonging; no matter what they have endured. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, adults, families and married couples.
(509) 769-3200 View (509) 769-3200
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99216
We are taking new clients! My name is Matthew and I am a clinical social worker who uses a person centered, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach with an emphasis on mindfulness. I specialize in working with clients who are coping with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and other major mental health issues.
We are taking new clients! My name is Matthew and I am a clinical social worker who uses a person centered, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach with an emphasis on mindfulness. I specialize in working with clients who are coping with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and other major mental health issues.
(509) 400-4923 View (509) 400-4923
Jared Tawney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99212  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal clients struggle with communication in their relationships, feeling disconnected and stuck in negative cycles. They seek practical ways to improve dialogue, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust. Their goals are to enhance their relationships for greater support and satisfaction. Sessions are online, providing flexibility for those with busy schedules or preferring the privacy of home. Through virtual therapy, clients learn effective communication skills and strategies to foster understanding and emotional well-being in a supportive environment.
My ideal clients struggle with communication in their relationships, feeling disconnected and stuck in negative cycles. They seek practical ways to improve dialogue, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust. Their goals are to enhance their relationships for greater support and satisfaction. Sessions are online, providing flexibility for those with busy schedules or preferring the privacy of home. Through virtual therapy, clients learn effective communication skills and strategies to foster understanding and emotional well-being in a supportive environment.
(509) 400-5025 View (509) 400-5025
Photo of Cece Ann Crowe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Cece Ann Crowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99037
"I’m tired of feeling this way. I want help. I want something to change." I hear you, I see you, and I want to sit with you in these moments. You want to feel comfortable in your life, in your relationships, and with yourself. You want to feel sure of yourself and content, with coping skills and new ways of engaging in life and with others. Let’s work together to learn new ways of behaving, and grow in your understanding of yourself and family. My strength as a therapist is to get to know you, relate to you and offer another perspective.
"I’m tired of feeling this way. I want help. I want something to change." I hear you, I see you, and I want to sit with you in these moments. You want to feel comfortable in your life, in your relationships, and with yourself. You want to feel sure of yourself and content, with coping skills and new ways of engaging in life and with others. Let’s work together to learn new ways of behaving, and grow in your understanding of yourself and family. My strength as a therapist is to get to know you, relate to you and offer another perspective.
(509) 233-4817 View (509) 233-4817
Photo of Advanced Behavioral Health, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Advanced Behavioral Health, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Life is too short to just wait for things to get better. When you’re experiencing anxiety or depression, it feels isolating, defeating, sometimes even shameful. It’s so exhausting and what worked for you in the past isn’t working anymore. Regardless if you've experienced a job loss or retirement, a new marriage or recent divorce, a complicated mid-life crisis, or addiction to social media or gaming. Whatever the reason, you know you need things to change, and you need them to change NOW. You can achieve a sense of well being, direction, and happiness. Don't wait any longer...the help, support, and tools you need are available here.
Life is too short to just wait for things to get better. When you’re experiencing anxiety or depression, it feels isolating, defeating, sometimes even shameful. It’s so exhausting and what worked for you in the past isn’t working anymore. Regardless if you've experienced a job loss or retirement, a new marriage or recent divorce, a complicated mid-life crisis, or addiction to social media or gaming. Whatever the reason, you know you need things to change, and you need them to change NOW. You can achieve a sense of well being, direction, and happiness. Don't wait any longer...the help, support, and tools you need are available here.
(509) 402-1182 View (509) 402-1182
Photo of Cindy Sahagun, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Cindy Sahagun
Counselor, LMHC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99037  (Online Only)
Hello there! I am passionate about intersectionality sensitivity and inclusivity and emphasize the importance of whole-person wellness. Humans are complex beings with emotional, physical, spiritual, and cultural needs with unique experiences. I find it important to incorporate a holistic understanding and collaborative approach to treatment to foster whole-person wellness. I am committed to holding a safe space for individuals to be their true authentic selves and foster unconditional positive regard in the therapeutic relationship.
Hello there! I am passionate about intersectionality sensitivity and inclusivity and emphasize the importance of whole-person wellness. Humans are complex beings with emotional, physical, spiritual, and cultural needs with unique experiences. I find it important to incorporate a holistic understanding and collaborative approach to treatment to foster whole-person wellness. I am committed to holding a safe space for individuals to be their true authentic selves and foster unconditional positive regard in the therapeutic relationship.
(509) 581-2550 View (509) 581-2550
Photo of Tracy Nielsen, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Spokane Valley, WA
Tracy Nielsen
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
We all have a story that deserves to be delighted in and held with compassion and gentleness. Your story might include hopelessness, grief, trauma, abuse, or shame. It might be a story of anxiety, confusion, guilt, or disappointment. My goal is to supply a path toward growth and healing. I believe people deserve to be met right where they are, amid the pain and chaos, and choose to view each individual uniquely.
We all have a story that deserves to be delighted in and held with compassion and gentleness. Your story might include hopelessness, grief, trauma, abuse, or shame. It might be a story of anxiety, confusion, guilt, or disappointment. My goal is to supply a path toward growth and healing. I believe people deserve to be met right where they are, amid the pain and chaos, and choose to view each individual uniquely.
(509) 204-8909 View (509) 204-8909
Photo of Maggie Inge, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Maggie Inge
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Maggie has experience working with all ages from toddlers to adults. She has spent time working in private practice, a community mental health agency and in an inpatient drug and alcohol facility providing counseling and group therapy in the Spokane area. Maggie believes that counseling can be used in a variety of ways to help clients and their families utilize strengths, accomplish goals, gain empowerment, as well as achieve growth and positive change. Maggie views her counselor role as a guide for clients to assist them in accomplishing a positive outcome from treatment.
Maggie has experience working with all ages from toddlers to adults. She has spent time working in private practice, a community mental health agency and in an inpatient drug and alcohol facility providing counseling and group therapy in the Spokane area. Maggie believes that counseling can be used in a variety of ways to help clients and their families utilize strengths, accomplish goals, gain empowerment, as well as achieve growth and positive change. Maggie views her counselor role as a guide for clients to assist them in accomplishing a positive outcome from treatment.
(509) 646-7718 View (509) 646-7718
Photo of Steffie Genevieve, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Steffie Genevieve
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, SAP
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99037  (Online Only)
Good therapy recognizes that we are greater than the problem believing people grow, heal, and transform. Change occurs when we experience grace through awareness of self, challenging old beliefs, learning new skills, and letting go of pain. My task and privilege is to assist you in the process. So to that end I will work with you in a collaborative way in a human to human connection to provide the foundation for change. I take a holistic approach viewing the body, mind, and spirit as interrelated.
Good therapy recognizes that we are greater than the problem believing people grow, heal, and transform. Change occurs when we experience grace through awareness of self, challenging old beliefs, learning new skills, and letting go of pain. My task and privilege is to assist you in the process. So to that end I will work with you in a collaborative way in a human to human connection to provide the foundation for change. I take a holistic approach viewing the body, mind, and spirit as interrelated.
(509) 774-2568 View (509) 774-2568
Photo of Claire Roman, Mental Health Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Claire Roman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
I am passionate about relational and trauma healing and hold a trauma-informed, attachment- centered lens when working with individuals or families. In therapy, I aim to help clients identify, understand, and heal emotional wounds. As I get to know you and your needs more, I integrate techniques from several counseling theories to best support your therapeutic goals. My eclectic approach includes CBT, EFT, IFS, play therapy and attachment theory. I believe our past can shape and influence our present thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, but doesn’t determine our future.
I am passionate about relational and trauma healing and hold a trauma-informed, attachment- centered lens when working with individuals or families. In therapy, I aim to help clients identify, understand, and heal emotional wounds. As I get to know you and your needs more, I integrate techniques from several counseling theories to best support your therapeutic goals. My eclectic approach includes CBT, EFT, IFS, play therapy and attachment theory. I believe our past can shape and influence our present thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, but doesn’t determine our future.
(509) 287-4559 x07 View (509) 287-4559 x07

See more therapy options for Spokane Valley

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
72% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Premera
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Aetna

How Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Spokane Valley?

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.