Therapists in Plainview, NY

Photo of Miriam Varghese, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Miriam Varghese
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
Many of us live life feeling fragmented, disconnected, and alone. We desire deep and meaningful connection but often shy away from truly being known. We feel unsure about change, and we hold onto the way things are, even if it no longer serves us. The more we avoid, the more stuck, anxious, and depressed we feel. As your therapist, I work hard to help you feel unstuck. I meet you with full acceptance and hold space for you to bring all of yourself (yes, the messy parts, too!) into our relationship. You don't have to be ready or committed to change in order to seek therapy. In fact, you can benefit greatly just by being curious.
Many of us live life feeling fragmented, disconnected, and alone. We desire deep and meaningful connection but often shy away from truly being known. We feel unsure about change, and we hold onto the way things are, even if it no longer serves us. The more we avoid, the more stuck, anxious, and depressed we feel. As your therapist, I work hard to help you feel unstuck. I meet you with full acceptance and hold space for you to bring all of yourself (yes, the messy parts, too!) into our relationship. You don't have to be ready or committed to change in order to seek therapy. In fact, you can benefit greatly just by being curious.
(516) 980-2653 View (516) 980-2653
Photo of Jamie Silverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Jamie Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults with an array of needs. This has provided me the opportunity to hone my craft gaining experience with individuals from all walks of life. Regardless of setting, each individual is unique. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel free to be themselves. Asking for help can sometimes feel overwhelming. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My down-to-earth nature is often what clients are drawn to. I would love the opportunity to assist you on your journey of growth and healing.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults with an array of needs. This has provided me the opportunity to hone my craft gaining experience with individuals from all walks of life. Regardless of setting, each individual is unique. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel free to be themselves. Asking for help can sometimes feel overwhelming. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My down-to-earth nature is often what clients are drawn to. I would love the opportunity to assist you on your journey of growth and healing.
(631) 791-6524 View (631) 791-6524
Photo of Mary Zekrya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Mary Zekrya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
My goal is to be with you every step of the way as you explore your concerns alongside me. To explore the depths of your thoughts and feelings and understand them. We would work together on the goals that you have! Therapy motivates you to reach your highest potential and improves the quality of your life.
My goal is to be with you every step of the way as you explore your concerns alongside me. To explore the depths of your thoughts and feelings and understand them. We would work together on the goals that you have! Therapy motivates you to reach your highest potential and improves the quality of your life.
(516) 407-7240 View (516) 407-7240
Photo of Sherry Henig, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Sherry Henig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
Put simply, I'd like to help you and/or your family member(s), feel less worried, less sad, and, in general, less distressed. With over 40 years of experience, I feel that I've been able to provide that to many hundreds of people with whom I've worked. Whether it's your child or teen who is suffering (I work with all manner of child and adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic underachievement, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression and limitations in social skills) or whether it's you, your relationship or your family that is troubled, I have the experience to help resolve issues.
Put simply, I'd like to help you and/or your family member(s), feel less worried, less sad, and, in general, less distressed. With over 40 years of experience, I feel that I've been able to provide that to many hundreds of people with whom I've worked. Whether it's your child or teen who is suffering (I work with all manner of child and adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic underachievement, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression and limitations in social skills) or whether it's you, your relationship or your family that is troubled, I have the experience to help resolve issues.
(516) 586-0640 View (516) 586-0640
Photo of Alysia Sobhraj, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Plainview, NY
Alysia Sobhraj
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
We are living a life where we always have to be “on.” Life is nonstop, whatever the focus is. You are anxious constantly and feeling overwhelmed daily. You are the person everyone goes to for support but now it’s time to focus on you. Therapy is a space for you to put a stop to the nonstop. Every individual deserves to have a therapeutic space to unpack some of the baggage that is weighing on him/her/them. As sessions progress, you’ll feel equipped in managing your busy days as well as build skills and insight towards what may have been holding you back from living the life you want to live.
We are living a life where we always have to be “on.” Life is nonstop, whatever the focus is. You are anxious constantly and feeling overwhelmed daily. You are the person everyone goes to for support but now it’s time to focus on you. Therapy is a space for you to put a stop to the nonstop. Every individual deserves to have a therapeutic space to unpack some of the baggage that is weighing on him/her/them. As sessions progress, you’ll feel equipped in managing your busy days as well as build skills and insight towards what may have been holding you back from living the life you want to live.
(516) 550-5272 View (516) 550-5272
Photo of Annette Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Annette Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
I believe that certain patterns of behavior that impede personal growth are deeply rooted in our early experiences and relationships. They are largely outside of our awareness. Insight into how these experiences shape our perceptions, views and behaviors are illuminated through our work together within the therapeutic relationship. With clarity and a greater understanding of one's repetitive patterns, lasting change can be achieved as well as a sense of personal empowerment.
I believe that certain patterns of behavior that impede personal growth are deeply rooted in our early experiences and relationships. They are largely outside of our awareness. Insight into how these experiences shape our perceptions, views and behaviors are illuminated through our work together within the therapeutic relationship. With clarity and a greater understanding of one's repetitive patterns, lasting change can be achieved as well as a sense of personal empowerment.
(516) 342-4413 View (516) 342-4413
Photo of Joanne Ditchik-Stutz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Joanne Ditchik-Stutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
The best version of you is not determined by other people's opinions, how much money you have, the way you look or feel, or what is going on in your life. Your value is reflected in your perspective - the personal stories that you have created and believe about yourself. There are choices in how you think about yourself, other people and situations. It may not change the situations, but it can change YOU! The miracle of seeing possibilities when you see no hope, to believe that you are so much more than your problems and pain, to understand that the biggest thing that you are missing in your life is YOU.
The best version of you is not determined by other people's opinions, how much money you have, the way you look or feel, or what is going on in your life. Your value is reflected in your perspective - the personal stories that you have created and believe about yourself. There are choices in how you think about yourself, other people and situations. It may not change the situations, but it can change YOU! The miracle of seeing possibilities when you see no hope, to believe that you are so much more than your problems and pain, to understand that the biggest thing that you are missing in your life is YOU.
(516) 518-6306 View (516) 518-6306
Photo of Martine Rosenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Martine Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
You may be thinking, “I just don’t feel like myself.” but don’t know where to start to feel better. Did you imagine your life would be at a different place by now? Sometimes as great as family and friends are, they may not truly understand and an outside unbiased perspective is helpful. I know that it can be hard to reach out for help, let alone find a therapist who is right for you. I provide my clients with a warm, supportive, non-judgmental space to help empower you and give you the coping skills needed to live the life you deserve.
You may be thinking, “I just don’t feel like myself.” but don’t know where to start to feel better. Did you imagine your life would be at a different place by now? Sometimes as great as family and friends are, they may not truly understand and an outside unbiased perspective is helpful. I know that it can be hard to reach out for help, let alone find a therapist who is right for you. I provide my clients with a warm, supportive, non-judgmental space to help empower you and give you the coping skills needed to live the life you deserve.
(516) 346-5823 View (516) 346-5823
Photo of Aemma Bethon, Counselor in Plainview, NY
Aemma Bethon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
Aemma Bethon received her Masters of the Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She received a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Psychology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Criminology. Aemma was adopted from South Korea and has a very diverse personal and professional background. Aemma is empathetic and compassionate, she loves giving people the space to truly be themselves and a space to be comfortable in. In sessions, Aemma is understanding and collaborative, and understands that no two clients are ever the same and every individual deserves a well-suited approach to what they are experiencing.
Aemma Bethon received her Masters of the Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She received a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Psychology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Criminology. Aemma was adopted from South Korea and has a very diverse personal and professional background. Aemma is empathetic and compassionate, she loves giving people the space to truly be themselves and a space to be comfortable in. In sessions, Aemma is understanding and collaborative, and understands that no two clients are ever the same and every individual deserves a well-suited approach to what they are experiencing.
(516) 908-5993 View (516) 908-5993
Photo of Steven George Wolbeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Steven George Wolbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
It takes courage to engage in professional counseling and when you do it is important that there is a match with your counselor and the modality used. As a counselor I serve people using mindfulness, meditation, whole person approaches. I also incorporate faith based approaches. I work with counselee's that struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma related issues and a variety of other emotional disturbances. I will help you identify the core issues that resulted in your emotional or personal problems and immediately help to develop strategies to resolve these issues.
It takes courage to engage in professional counseling and when you do it is important that there is a match with your counselor and the modality used. As a counselor I serve people using mindfulness, meditation, whole person approaches. I also incorporate faith based approaches. I work with counselee's that struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma related issues and a variety of other emotional disturbances. I will help you identify the core issues that resulted in your emotional or personal problems and immediately help to develop strategies to resolve these issues.
(516) 412-6985 View (516) 412-6985
Photo of Janet Mueller, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Janet Mueller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Plainview, NY. In my sessions I help people ages 4 through adulthood learn and practice skills to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties using CBT and dynamic therapy. I work closely with parents to help implement the skills that have been taught to their kids in our sessions.
I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Plainview, NY. In my sessions I help people ages 4 through adulthood learn and practice skills to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties using CBT and dynamic therapy. I work closely with parents to help implement the skills that have been taught to their kids in our sessions.
(516) 604-7235 View (516) 604-7235
Photo of Randi Zimmerman @ Randi Z. Therapy Consulting , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Randi Zimmerman @ Randi Z. Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
At The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, Randi Zimmerman, LCSW-R, CEDS-S and her team are ready for you! "What lies before you and what lies behind you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. For those who wish to be the best they can be, to heal and strive and connect, therapy can help you achieve the highest quality of your life. Your unique strengths will be uncovered and cultivated to help you meet the challenges before you. You will be guided and nurtured to achieve and exceed your goals, to take the risks necessary to fulfill your dreams. The time to start is now!
At The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, Randi Zimmerman, LCSW-R, CEDS-S and her team are ready for you! "What lies before you and what lies behind you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. For those who wish to be the best they can be, to heal and strive and connect, therapy can help you achieve the highest quality of your life. Your unique strengths will be uncovered and cultivated to help you meet the challenges before you. You will be guided and nurtured to achieve and exceed your goals, to take the risks necessary to fulfill your dreams. The time to start is now!
(516) 986-4345 View (516) 986-4345
Photo of Dr. Fred L. Holtz, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Dr. Fred L. Holtz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
NEW! Sliding scale fees for daytime appointments and four FREE sessions with our graduate interns! We provide therapy for personal growth and confidence in a comfortable, supportive atmosphere. Therapy motivates you to reach your highest potential and improve the quality of your life. Treatment is individualized, goals are mutually established, and feedback is given frequently. The supportive, engaging style of therapy encourages self-worth, achievement, relaxation, and better ability to cope with challenges. Visit our website to see all of our therapists.
NEW! Sliding scale fees for daytime appointments and four FREE sessions with our graduate interns! We provide therapy for personal growth and confidence in a comfortable, supportive atmosphere. Therapy motivates you to reach your highest potential and improve the quality of your life. Treatment is individualized, goals are mutually established, and feedback is given frequently. The supportive, engaging style of therapy encourages self-worth, achievement, relaxation, and better ability to cope with challenges. Visit our website to see all of our therapists.
(516) 701-2231 View (516) 701-2231
Photo of TherapyMyWay.com, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
TherapyMyWay.com
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
You want individualized therapy in a private, comfortable environment. You want only experienced therapists with specific background in working with your unique challenges and issues. You are looking for caring, focused, effective therapists who will develop strategies that will work for you.
You want individualized therapy in a private, comfortable environment. You want only experienced therapists with specific background in working with your unique challenges and issues. You are looking for caring, focused, effective therapists who will develop strategies that will work for you.
(516) 874-6366 View (516) 874-6366
Photo of Jaimie Zelinger in Plainview, NY
Jaimie Zelinger
MFT
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
Do you feel stuck sometimes or feel lost with no one to turn to? Are you facing a significant life transition? Have you been trying to get yourself out of the same old patterns and it’s just not working? I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families on improving anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, communication struggles, self-care, and life changes. I will work with you to create coping skills and empower you to work towards increased happiness.
Do you feel stuck sometimes or feel lost with no one to turn to? Are you facing a significant life transition? Have you been trying to get yourself out of the same old patterns and it’s just not working? I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families on improving anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, communication struggles, self-care, and life changes. I will work with you to create coping skills and empower you to work towards increased happiness.
(516) 774-1434 View (516) 774-1434
Suzanne Filardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
I believe that everyone has the potential to live happy and fulfilling lives. Many life circumstances and stressors can make this feel extremely difficult. Seeking out help at these times is a very courageous step.
I believe that everyone has the potential to live happy and fulfilling lives. Many life circumstances and stressors can make this feel extremely difficult. Seeking out help at these times is a very courageous step.
(516) 650-2618 View (516) 650-2618
Photo of Judie Rokofsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Judie Rokofsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R, RN
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
Why choose me? As an energetic and innovative health care professional with an eclectic background and over 15 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families, my practice embodies the mind, body and spirit. My background is in both psychiatric nursing and social work and I utilize many tools and techniques to nurture and empower clients. I can offer clients a varied experience in several modalities; my post-graduate certificates are in Couples and Family Therapy, Hypnosis, Addictions as well as Holistic Nursing, Holistic Nutrition and EMDR.
Why choose me? As an energetic and innovative health care professional with an eclectic background and over 15 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families, my practice embodies the mind, body and spirit. My background is in both psychiatric nursing and social work and I utilize many tools and techniques to nurture and empower clients. I can offer clients a varied experience in several modalities; my post-graduate certificates are in Couples and Family Therapy, Hypnosis, Addictions as well as Holistic Nursing, Holistic Nutrition and EMDR.
(516) 822-8064 View (516) 822-8064
Photo of Chauncée Ventura, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plainview, NY
Chauncée Ventura
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
Limited Availability - - - Have you ever felt like everyone was given a manual for life except you? Life is a beautiful journey filled with moments of joy and meaning. However, it can also throw us challenges leaving us feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, or physically and emotionally unwell. If you find yourself in this space, know that your mind and body are trying to communicate that something needs attention. Approaching change can be intimidating, but you don't need to navigate it alone. I will create a warm, safe space, free of judgment, to guide you towards self-discovery and resilience.
Limited Availability - - - Have you ever felt like everyone was given a manual for life except you? Life is a beautiful journey filled with moments of joy and meaning. However, it can also throw us challenges leaving us feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, or physically and emotionally unwell. If you find yourself in this space, know that your mind and body are trying to communicate that something needs attention. Approaching change can be intimidating, but you don't need to navigate it alone. I will create a warm, safe space, free of judgment, to guide you towards self-discovery and resilience.
(516) 550-5943 View (516) 550-5943
Photo of Taylor Perlman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plainview, NY
Taylor Perlman
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
Not accepting new clients
Post Doctorate Clinical Psychologist at Therapy My Way- I believe in cultivating a nonjudgmental, safe space to meet people where they are, mentally and emotionally, and use their strengths to achieve their highest level of functioning. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of presenting concerns, and collaborate to find an approach to best fit their needs. I conduct psychological evaluations to assess cognitive, academic, social-emotional, and behavioral functioning to provide diagnoses and recommendations to individuals, children, and their families.
Post Doctorate Clinical Psychologist at Therapy My Way- I believe in cultivating a nonjudgmental, safe space to meet people where they are, mentally and emotionally, and use their strengths to achieve their highest level of functioning. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of presenting concerns, and collaborate to find an approach to best fit their needs. I conduct psychological evaluations to assess cognitive, academic, social-emotional, and behavioral functioning to provide diagnoses and recommendations to individuals, children, and their families.
(516) 856-1695 View (516) 856-1695
Photo of Keith C Moss, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Keith C Moss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
People experiencing anxiety, depression and personal conflicts are riddled with pain and fear. Daily functioning, be it, personal, work or family matters can be a struggle. Sometimes people may say to you "just get over it". This can lead to increased social isolation and lowered self-esteem. Work or academic performance can suffer and relationships can be adversely affected. I, as an experienced psychologist, will work in collaborative effort with you so that these problems can be addressed through a thoughtful and sensitive approach utilizing evidence-based cognitive behavioral psychotherapeutic treatment.
People experiencing anxiety, depression and personal conflicts are riddled with pain and fear. Daily functioning, be it, personal, work or family matters can be a struggle. Sometimes people may say to you "just get over it". This can lead to increased social isolation and lowered self-esteem. Work or academic performance can suffer and relationships can be adversely affected. I, as an experienced psychologist, will work in collaborative effort with you so that these problems can be addressed through a thoughtful and sensitive approach utilizing evidence-based cognitive behavioral psychotherapeutic treatment.
(631) 271-8800 View (631) 271-8800

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plainview, NY

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Plainview, NY who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
89% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
81% Self Esteem
75% Coping Skills
70% Family Conflict
66% Stress

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Oxford

How Therapists in Plainview, NY see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plainview?

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.