Therapists in Whites Bend, Nashville, TN

Ashton Ross Landers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
4 Endorsed
Whites Bend, Nashville, TN 37209
You don’t have to arrive here with clarity or answers. Most people don’t. More often, they come in carrying something unspoken, like an ache, a pattern that won’t shift, or a quiet sense of disconnection from themselves or the people they love. If that’s you, you are in the right place. This is a space where we slow things down together, listen more closely, and begin to understand what’s been beneath the surface. I tend to notice what isn’t always said out loud, the subtle shifts, the deeper emotional undercurrents, and the parts of you that may have been overlooked or misunderstood.
You don’t have to arrive here with clarity or answers. Most people don’t. More often, they come in carrying something unspoken, like an ache, a pattern that won’t shift, or a quiet sense of disconnection from themselves or the people they love. If that’s you, you are in the right place. This is a space where we slow things down together, listen more closely, and begin to understand what’s been beneath the surface. I tend to notice what isn’t always said out loud, the subtle shifts, the deeper emotional undercurrents, and the parts of you that may have been overlooked or misunderstood.
(629) 276-4631 View (629) 276-4631
Hannah Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Whites Bend, Nashville, TN 37209
You're not in crisis — but you're tired. Tired of understanding your patterns without actually changing them, of talking about the same things and leaving sessions feeling like nothing moved. You're ready to go deeper, even if that feels scary. That's where experiential work comes in. I use EMDR, body-based techniques, and other active, in-the-moment approaches to help you actually process what's stuck — not just talk around it. I'll be honest with you, curious about you, and genuinely invested in what changes. Sustainable healing comes from going to the root, not just managing symptoms.
You're not in crisis — but you're tired. Tired of understanding your patterns without actually changing them, of talking about the same things and leaving sessions feeling like nothing moved. You're ready to go deeper, even if that feels scary. That's where experiential work comes in. I use EMDR, body-based techniques, and other active, in-the-moment approaches to help you actually process what's stuck — not just talk around it. I'll be honest with you, curious about you, and genuinely invested in what changes. Sustainable healing comes from going to the root, not just managing symptoms.
(775) 269-3964 View (775) 269-3964
Beth Nelson
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have been a licensed counselor for 18 years and I have been in the helping profession for nearly thirty-five years. Much of my experience is working with people who have experienced trauma, especially within relationships. I work best with individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and issues of empowerment. I feel you are the expert concerning your life. Maybe you just need some help exploring that. My style is not to give advice, but rather to provide a safe environment and relationship where you can feel free to grow and transform. DBT informed.
I have been a licensed counselor for 18 years and I have been in the helping profession for nearly thirty-five years. Much of my experience is working with people who have experienced trauma, especially within relationships. I work best with individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and issues of empowerment. I feel you are the expert concerning your life. Maybe you just need some help exploring that. My style is not to give advice, but rather to provide a safe environment and relationship where you can feel free to grow and transform. DBT informed.
(615) 212-8002 View (615) 212-8002
John Verbos
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Each of us shapes and is shaped by the relationships we have with others, with our bodies, with our stories, with our cultures, and with our worlds. We find ourselves here and now because of where we’ve been and what has happened, because of how we carry our experiences forward and how they have made us. I am awed by the creative resilience with which we integrate or shoulder the burdens we’ve felt. I find astonishing and courageous the ways in which we not only survive, but find ways to thrive, to express ourselves, and live into the fullness of human experience despite those things that have hurt us and that hurt us now.
Each of us shapes and is shaped by the relationships we have with others, with our bodies, with our stories, with our cultures, and with our worlds. We find ourselves here and now because of where we’ve been and what has happened, because of how we carry our experiences forward and how they have made us. I am awed by the creative resilience with which we integrate or shoulder the burdens we’ve felt. I find astonishing and courageous the ways in which we not only survive, but find ways to thrive, to express ourselves, and live into the fullness of human experience despite those things that have hurt us and that hurt us now.
(615) 239-6267 View (615) 239-6267
Dean Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Why do I feel so stuck? Why can’t I get it together? I should have it figured out by now. Sound familiar? This is a pattern that takes work to get out of. If you found your way here, that's a huge first step. I’m here to help you explore what’s keeping you stuck and to develop practical tools that help you shift your thinking and behavior. Together we can find a path forward. You want something to change but may feel overwhelmed with where to start. There is no magic bullet or secret answer but there is potential in you if you're willing to try. As the old man in The Legend of Zelda says, "It's dangerous to go alone, take this!"
Why do I feel so stuck? Why can’t I get it together? I should have it figured out by now. Sound familiar? This is a pattern that takes work to get out of. If you found your way here, that's a huge first step. I’m here to help you explore what’s keeping you stuck and to develop practical tools that help you shift your thinking and behavior. Together we can find a path forward. You want something to change but may feel overwhelmed with where to start. There is no magic bullet or secret answer but there is potential in you if you're willing to try. As the old man in The Legend of Zelda says, "It's dangerous to go alone, take this!"
(615) 235-6923 View (615) 235-6923
Laura Grafham Knapp
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
8 Endorsed
Whites Bend, Nashville, TN 37209
Waitlist for new clients
When you cut a tree down and look at the growth rings added every year, you can see the way fire, water, wind, and people have impacted its life each year. I believe that people are no different. Our environment shapes us, and nevertheless we grow. Some years are harder than others, but even within the hard years, growth takes place.
When you cut a tree down and look at the growth rings added every year, you can see the way fire, water, wind, and people have impacted its life each year. I believe that people are no different. Our environment shapes us, and nevertheless we grow. Some years are harder than others, but even within the hard years, growth takes place.
(629) 201-2710 View (629) 201-2710
Sarah Ketron
Counselor, AAC
Online Only
Have you spent a long time feeling unseen, misunderstood, or like you have to work twice as hard to explain yourself? Maybe you’re carrying the weight of trauma, rejection, stigma, or mistreatment due to disability, neurodivergence, or your LGBTQ+ identity. Or maybe you just know you want something in your life to feel different, even though you’re not sure where to start. I work with people who have felt different, marginalized, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. In therapy with me, I strive to create a space where you don’t have to mask, perform, or have everything figured out. We can begin right where you are.
Have you spent a long time feeling unseen, misunderstood, or like you have to work twice as hard to explain yourself? Maybe you’re carrying the weight of trauma, rejection, stigma, or mistreatment due to disability, neurodivergence, or your LGBTQ+ identity. Or maybe you just know you want something in your life to feel different, even though you’re not sure where to start. I work with people who have felt different, marginalized, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. In therapy with me, I strive to create a space where you don’t have to mask, perform, or have everything figured out. We can begin right where you are.
(615) 422-4169 View (615) 422-4169
Guided Path Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCMHSP, LPCCS
Online Only
Guided Path Counseling provides a high-quality network of therapists who tailor their therapeutic approach to meet the needs of each client in Tennessee and Kentucky. GPC provides these services virtually, which allows for increased client anonymity and the ability to receive therapy services from your own home! GPC therapists have dedicated their lives to helping others. Therefore, you can expect to be in an authentic, warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment. Besides traditional therapy, the director offers assessments for emotional support animals and evaluations for gender affirming care procedures.
Guided Path Counseling provides a high-quality network of therapists who tailor their therapeutic approach to meet the needs of each client in Tennessee and Kentucky. GPC provides these services virtually, which allows for increased client anonymity and the ability to receive therapy services from your own home! GPC therapists have dedicated their lives to helping others. Therefore, you can expect to be in an authentic, warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment. Besides traditional therapy, the director offers assessments for emotional support animals and evaluations for gender affirming care procedures.
(629) 240-2448 View (629) 240-2448
Stacey Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m an experienced therapist with specialized training in maternal mental health, motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, rooted in empathy, mindfulness, and encouragement. I’m here to support individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges, build coping skills, and strengthen their communication. Whether you're adjusting to new motherhood, facing relationship struggles, or simply seeking more balance, I provide a safe, supportive space where healing and growth can unfold.
I’m an experienced therapist with specialized training in maternal mental health, motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, rooted in empathy, mindfulness, and encouragement. I’m here to support individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges, build coping skills, and strengthen their communication. Whether you're adjusting to new motherhood, facing relationship struggles, or simply seeking more balance, I provide a safe, supportive space where healing and growth can unfold.
(629) 302-2497 View (629) 302-2497
Aunge Cory - Cory Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be reaching a point where old roles no longer fit: scapegoat, caretaker, emotional stabilizer, or “the strong one.” What follows can feel disorienting, including grief, anger, relief, and a growing refusal to contort yourself for systems that relied on your silence. I work with adults who are ready to step out of survival roles and into sovereignty—people who want to understand how they adapted, not stay stuck retelling what hurt. Many of my clients are navigating estrangement, enmeshed family systems, complex trauma, identity shifts, or the consequences of choosing themselves for the first time.
You may be reaching a point where old roles no longer fit: scapegoat, caretaker, emotional stabilizer, or “the strong one.” What follows can feel disorienting, including grief, anger, relief, and a growing refusal to contort yourself for systems that relied on your silence. I work with adults who are ready to step out of survival roles and into sovereignty—people who want to understand how they adapted, not stay stuck retelling what hurt. Many of my clients are navigating estrangement, enmeshed family systems, complex trauma, identity shifts, or the consequences of choosing themselves for the first time.
(615) 392-1879 View (615) 392-1879
Mary Ibrahim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults and couples in Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Virginia. My clients may feel consumed by anxiety, OCD, intrusive thoughts, relationship concerns, or painful patterns they cannot seem to break. I also support men navigating frustration tolerance, relationships, and emotional expression, as well as women facing stress related to identity, relationships, life transitions, and hormonal changes. Some clients want faith and values to be welcomed into therapy. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, connection, and a more fulfilling life.
I work with adults and couples in Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Virginia. My clients may feel consumed by anxiety, OCD, intrusive thoughts, relationship concerns, or painful patterns they cannot seem to break. I also support men navigating frustration tolerance, relationships, and emotional expression, as well as women facing stress related to identity, relationships, life transitions, and hormonal changes. Some clients want faith and values to be welcomed into therapy. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, connection, and a more fulfilling life.
(615) 543-6719 View (615) 543-6719
Christy Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to New Story Therapy! My hope is to provide you with a safe, supportive space to navigate your relationship with yourself and with others. I currently work primarily with adults who are seeking healing from trauma, anxiety, and depression that may stem from family of origin issues, physical, sexual, & emotional abuse, relationship conflict, and other difficult life experiences. Many of my clients are entrepreneurs, creatives, students, Asian Americans & people of color, and people within the helping profession. You have taken the first step of courage in being here, and it is my honor to connect with you.
Welcome to New Story Therapy! My hope is to provide you with a safe, supportive space to navigate your relationship with yourself and with others. I currently work primarily with adults who are seeking healing from trauma, anxiety, and depression that may stem from family of origin issues, physical, sexual, & emotional abuse, relationship conflict, and other difficult life experiences. Many of my clients are entrepreneurs, creatives, students, Asian Americans & people of color, and people within the helping profession. You have taken the first step of courage in being here, and it is my honor to connect with you.
(615) 392-1592 View (615) 392-1592
Sherrie E. McKinney
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LADC II, NCAC II, SAP, P4LIFE
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with clients who have some desire to move toward abstinence and/or recovery. Many of my clients have experienced negative consequences due to alcohol or drug use, including contact with the criminal justice system, loss of their driver's license, job, children, etc. I provide substance abuse counseling, drug education and an Alcohol and Drug Assessment that will satisfy most state requirements.
I work with clients who have some desire to move toward abstinence and/or recovery. Many of my clients have experienced negative consequences due to alcohol or drug use, including contact with the criminal justice system, loss of their driver's license, job, children, etc. I provide substance abuse counseling, drug education and an Alcohol and Drug Assessment that will satisfy most state requirements.
(615) 454-9428 View (615) 454-9428

Online Therapists

Chris Gonzalez Ph.D., LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
13 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Taking care of yourself, your relationships, and your soul are some the most important things you can do. However, sometimes stress can pile up, relationships get strained, or unexpected losses leave an empty place in life. Sometimes even church can hurt. When these things happen it can get overwhelming resulting in many more questions than answers. It is a privilege for me to walk with people who experience challenges and help them heal from wounds, solve problems and glean some redemptive meaning from the challenges they face.
Taking care of yourself, your relationships, and your soul are some the most important things you can do. However, sometimes stress can pile up, relationships get strained, or unexpected losses leave an empty place in life. Sometimes even church can hurt. When these things happen it can get overwhelming resulting in many more questions than answers. It is a privilege for me to walk with people who experience challenges and help them heal from wounds, solve problems and glean some redemptive meaning from the challenges they face.
(615) 721-2482 View (615) 721-2482
Susan Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NPT-C
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Now Accepting New Clients - Beyond "talk therapy": Healing for high-functioning women. You’re the one everyone turns to—but who supports you? On the surface you're high-achieving, capable, and composed. But inside, you may feel anxious, exhausted, and stretched far too thin. If you’re tired of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and emotional overload, I help women like you stop just surviving and start living authentically. My work focuses on nervous system regulation, trauma resolution, anxiety, and burnout. Together, we’ll uncover what’s beneath the mask and help you feel safe, confident, and connected in your own skin.
Now Accepting New Clients - Beyond "talk therapy": Healing for high-functioning women. You’re the one everyone turns to—but who supports you? On the surface you're high-achieving, capable, and composed. But inside, you may feel anxious, exhausted, and stretched far too thin. If you’re tired of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and emotional overload, I help women like you stop just surviving and start living authentically. My work focuses on nervous system regulation, trauma resolution, anxiety, and burnout. Together, we’ll uncover what’s beneath the mask and help you feel safe, confident, and connected in your own skin.
(629) 205-3855 View (629) 205-3855
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Nashville, TN 37203
We welcome clients from all backgrounds who are navigating life’s challenges, seeking personal growth, or looking for support through periods of change. Clients come to us for concerns including anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, trauma, stress, and questions about identity or life direction. Our diverse team provides affirming, individualized care, helping each client feel seen, understood, and supported as they move toward meaningful change. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs.
We welcome clients from all backgrounds who are navigating life’s challenges, seeking personal growth, or looking for support through periods of change. Clients come to us for concerns including anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, trauma, stress, and questions about identity or life direction. Our diverse team provides affirming, individualized care, helping each client feel seen, understood, and supported as they move toward meaningful change. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs.
(615) 802-9644 View (615) 802-9644
Elise Rhodes ( Motherhood Burnout Alignment Self-Trust )
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, PMH-C
9 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
You were always the high-achieving "good girl" — the one no one had to worry about. Then you became a mother, and everything felt different: • Snapping, then spiraling—worried you're "ruining" your kids • Feeling everything but relaxed when finally having a moment to "rest" • Not trusting anyone to do the planning or execution as well as you • Resenting the load, your partner, the dog, and the systems that put it all on you • Feeling touched-out and overstimulated—and it's affecting your marriage, not just your patience • Feeling less capable • Feeling disillusioned and ashamed for not enjoying the life you've always dreamed of
You were always the high-achieving "good girl" — the one no one had to worry about. Then you became a mother, and everything felt different: • Snapping, then spiraling—worried you're "ruining" your kids • Feeling everything but relaxed when finally having a moment to "rest" • Not trusting anyone to do the planning or execution as well as you • Resenting the load, your partner, the dog, and the systems that put it all on you • Feeling touched-out and overstimulated—and it's affecting your marriage, not just your patience • Feeling less capable • Feeling disillusioned and ashamed for not enjoying the life you've always dreamed of
(615) 492-8361 View (615) 492-8361
Rita Cuellar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Ready to support Individuals, Couples and Families through conflicts and difficult times. Life has many ups and downs, but when we understand ourselves and those around us, life struggles can be easier to process. "Building one another up" is a great way to get started.
Ready to support Individuals, Couples and Families through conflicts and difficult times. Life has many ups and downs, but when we understand ourselves and those around us, life struggles can be easier to process. "Building one another up" is a great way to get started.
(629) 205-9638 View (629) 205-9638
Jenna Dalfino
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, M.Ed.
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
For the Chronically Misunderstood & Bodies that Haven't Been Believed: What if I AM the problem? AM I crazy? Constant rejection & dismissal can turn questioning inwards. The doubt can spiral so deep the world doesn’t feel real. I offer a pathway back to yourself, one where you can learn to rely on your experiences & trust yourself again. Maybe you find yourself people-pleasing, masking, overfunctioning, burning out, flaring into collapse. Pause here. What do you notice? Do your traps kiss your ears, chronically tight? If you’ve worn the label of too much, not enough, too intense or sensitive, bring every part of yourself. You belong
For the Chronically Misunderstood & Bodies that Haven't Been Believed: What if I AM the problem? AM I crazy? Constant rejection & dismissal can turn questioning inwards. The doubt can spiral so deep the world doesn’t feel real. I offer a pathway back to yourself, one where you can learn to rely on your experiences & trust yourself again. Maybe you find yourself people-pleasing, masking, overfunctioning, burning out, flaring into collapse. Pause here. What do you notice? Do your traps kiss your ears, chronically tight? If you’ve worn the label of too much, not enough, too intense or sensitive, bring every part of yourself. You belong
(629) 240-4849 View (629) 240-4849
Carrie Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SD
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
It takes courage to ask for support and seek a path toward wholeness. I provide a safe non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to navigate life's challenges and strengthen relationships. We will work together to help you identify your goals for building a healthier and more fulfilling life. In our time together we will develop techniques to help you practice and integrate skills to meet your goals. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment focused EMDR trauma therapy. with experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or addiction/codependency directly or within their family systems. I am certified in dream work.
It takes courage to ask for support and seek a path toward wholeness. I provide a safe non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to navigate life's challenges and strengthen relationships. We will work together to help you identify your goals for building a healthier and more fulfilling life. In our time together we will develop techniques to help you practice and integrate skills to meet your goals. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment focused EMDR trauma therapy. with experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or addiction/codependency directly or within their family systems. I am certified in dream work.
(615) 471-6414 View (615) 471-6414

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Whites Bend, Nashville, TN

10+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Whites Bend, Nashville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
92% Life Transitions
92% Social Anxiety
92% Health Anxiety
92% Driving Anxiety
85% Relationship Issues
85% Depression

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% BlueCross and BlueShield
29% Aetna
29% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Whites Bend, Nashville, TN see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
15% Male
8% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Whites Bend?

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.