Therapists in Kountze, TX

Photo of Joshua Eldredge Loflin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Joshua Eldredge Loflin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As someone who is no stranger to anxiety, depression, uncertainty, familial troubles, and the challenge of managing life's (sometimes MANY) stressors; I understand how difficult things can get. I'm here for you—an empathetic ear, a metaphorical shoulder to cry on (thanks to telehealth), a sounding board, an impartial eye, and a devil's advocate.
As someone who is no stranger to anxiety, depression, uncertainty, familial troubles, and the challenge of managing life's (sometimes MANY) stressors; I understand how difficult things can get. I'm here for you—an empathetic ear, a metaphorical shoulder to cry on (thanks to telehealth), a sounding board, an impartial eye, and a devil's advocate.
(409) 405-6408 View (409) 405-6408
Photo of Sherri A Wood, MS, LPC, LCDC, CFBC
Sherri A Wood
MS, LPC, LCDC, CFBC
Verified Verified
Kountze, TX 77625
Hi, I am a mother of 5 and grandmother of 8 (so far :-) ). I specialize in couples counseling, children, adolescents, individuals and addictions. I believe that we all have a journey to take and sometimes having someone to help along the way gets us motivated for change. I believe you have what it takes to make a happy and productive life and I'm just here to help you find it! Call me if you don't want to be judged, but want to work together to reach your happiness!
Hi, I am a mother of 5 and grandmother of 8 (so far :-) ). I specialize in couples counseling, children, adolescents, individuals and addictions. I believe that we all have a journey to take and sometimes having someone to help along the way gets us motivated for change. I believe you have what it takes to make a happy and productive life and I'm just here to help you find it! Call me if you don't want to be judged, but want to work together to reach your happiness!
(337) 343-3600 View (337) 343-3600
Photo of Tiffanie Hampton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Tiffanie Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Tiffanie Hampton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with 15 years of experience. I have worked with a broad spectrum of people, including military veterans, LGBTQIA+, marriage, divorce, and everything from fertility issues to end-of-life issues, including grief. I enjoy helping couples find spontaneity in their relationships again, supporting folks who want to manage anxiety before it has a chance to take over and assisting families who may be coping with major life changes. I have a straightforward approach and use humor to make people feel comfortable and human in the space.
Hello! My name is Tiffanie Hampton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with 15 years of experience. I have worked with a broad spectrum of people, including military veterans, LGBTQIA+, marriage, divorce, and everything from fertility issues to end-of-life issues, including grief. I enjoy helping couples find spontaneity in their relationships again, supporting folks who want to manage anxiety before it has a chance to take over and assisting families who may be coping with major life changes. I have a straightforward approach and use humor to make people feel comfortable and human in the space.
(346) 559-1444 View (346) 559-1444
Photo of Regina Tate - NewPath Therapy & Wellness w/Psychiatry, Licensed Professional Counselor
NewPath Therapy & Wellness w/Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
At NewPath we know that your journey in life matters! We believe in a collaborative and connected team approach to be the most important quality of our group because you get many brains working for you for the price of one! Our environment is super laid back, and we are all down-to-earth and genuine. Our goal is to create a comfortable place for you to work on feeling better!
At NewPath we know that your journey in life matters! We believe in a collaborative and connected team approach to be the most important quality of our group because you get many brains working for you for the price of one! Our environment is super laid back, and we are all down-to-earth and genuine. Our goal is to create a comfortable place for you to work on feeling better!
(409) 515-7287 View (409) 515-7287
Photo of Rick Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CMHC, CACREP
Rick Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CMHC, CACREP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you willing to work in and out of a counseling session to better yourself and your relationships? Would you like to set goals to help assist you out of bad patterns and into new ones? Would you like to enhance your natural abilities while being transparent and open about your weaknesses? Do you need to work through marital struggles, anxiety, depression, trauma, a multitude of addictions, childhood abuse/developmental issues, or other mental health difficulties that are negatively impacting your life?
Are you willing to work in and out of a counseling session to better yourself and your relationships? Would you like to set goals to help assist you out of bad patterns and into new ones? Would you like to enhance your natural abilities while being transparent and open about your weaknesses? Do you need to work through marital struggles, anxiety, depression, trauma, a multitude of addictions, childhood abuse/developmental issues, or other mental health difficulties that are negatively impacting your life?
(409) 263-4113 View (409) 263-4113

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kimberly Arrington - Connected Path Recovery Center , Licensed Professional Counselor, LCDC, LPC
Connected Path Recovery Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCDC, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77706
Struggling to find a path to lasting recovery? At Connected Path Recovery, we help individuals overcome substance use challenges with compassionate care, evidence-based strategies, and a supportive community. We understand the weight of addiction and are here to guide you toward healing and a fulfilling, substance-free life. Whether you’re just starting your journey or seeking continued support, we’ll help you break free from the past and embrace a brighter future. Recovery is possible—take the next step with us today.
Struggling to find a path to lasting recovery? At Connected Path Recovery, we help individuals overcome substance use challenges with compassionate care, evidence-based strategies, and a supportive community. We understand the weight of addiction and are here to guide you toward healing and a fulfilling, substance-free life. Whether you’re just starting your journey or seeking continued support, we’ll help you break free from the past and embrace a brighter future. Recovery is possible—take the next step with us today.
(409) 204-0872 View (409) 204-0872
Photo of Alan Wayne Apperson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, LCCA
Alan Wayne Apperson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, LCCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77706
The ideal client is one that is willing to work in session and practice out of session. I work best with clients that are willing to be honest and raw with me. I respect someone that can voice their truest thoughts/feelings/and behaviors because I will be equally direct with my identification of distortions in their thoughts and actions. The greatest acceptance of ourselves can only be achieved with an honest look inward. This honesty allows us see what strengths we desire to build and what needs we can reduce. With this direct, loving, and accepting approach, the counseling process can be maximized in its efficacy.
The ideal client is one that is willing to work in session and practice out of session. I work best with clients that are willing to be honest and raw with me. I respect someone that can voice their truest thoughts/feelings/and behaviors because I will be equally direct with my identification of distortions in their thoughts and actions. The greatest acceptance of ourselves can only be achieved with an honest look inward. This honesty allows us see what strengths we desire to build and what needs we can reduce. With this direct, loving, and accepting approach, the counseling process can be maximized in its efficacy.
(409) 515-8342 View (409) 515-8342
Photo of Shy Seaman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Shy Seaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silsbee, TX 77656
Negative events have affected each and every one of us at some point. I am committed to digging deep with you in therapy. Are you ready to: cleanse wounds so they can heal? -empower yourself? -learn to cope? -strengthen relationships? Without judgement, I will work with you in the trenches no matter the depths. The counseling relationship is unique because it is non-judgmental and confidential in a safe, supportive environment. Together, we construct your goals. I am challenging and direct in our sessions, resulting in you challenging and understanding yourself while obtaining your goals.
Negative events have affected each and every one of us at some point. I am committed to digging deep with you in therapy. Are you ready to: cleanse wounds so they can heal? -empower yourself? -learn to cope? -strengthen relationships? Without judgement, I will work with you in the trenches no matter the depths. The counseling relationship is unique because it is non-judgmental and confidential in a safe, supportive environment. Together, we construct your goals. I am challenging and direct in our sessions, resulting in you challenging and understanding yourself while obtaining your goals.
(409) 204-0063 View (409) 204-0063
Photo of Kelly Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
(346) 553-0051 View (346) 553-0051
Photo of Jennifer Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Jennifer Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77706
In a world of work, career focus, stress, parenting, responsibilities, fast-paced daily lives, Generation X and Y are the backbone of society. Our generations take up more than 137 million people! We are caretakers of our Boomer parents and our Gen Z children. We make a difference in the world, it's time to make a difference in ourselves. Gen-Xers and Millennials are a breed of their own. We are known for resilience, independence and forward thinking.
In a world of work, career focus, stress, parenting, responsibilities, fast-paced daily lives, Generation X and Y are the backbone of society. Our generations take up more than 137 million people! We are caretakers of our Boomer parents and our Gen Z children. We make a difference in the world, it's time to make a difference in ourselves. Gen-Xers and Millennials are a breed of their own. We are known for resilience, independence and forward thinking.
(409) 207-9134 View (409) 207-9134
Photo of Melissa Walker Fleming, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Melissa Walker Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
How are you actually doing? Feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, confused, or aggravated? It happens to the best of us. Counseling may make things easier to deal with. I believe that change is possible- with support and a fresh game plan. I aim to create a safe, empathic environment to help my clients reach their goals, whatever they may be. I am a board certified and licensed professional counselor and supervisor. I offer telehealth sessions in both Louisiana and Texas. I am paneled with BCBS, PPO, Aetna Commercial, United Commercial, UMR, and Gilsbar for insurance.
How are you actually doing? Feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, confused, or aggravated? It happens to the best of us. Counseling may make things easier to deal with. I believe that change is possible- with support and a fresh game plan. I aim to create a safe, empathic environment to help my clients reach their goals, whatever they may be. I am a board certified and licensed professional counselor and supervisor. I offer telehealth sessions in both Louisiana and Texas. I am paneled with BCBS, PPO, Aetna Commercial, United Commercial, UMR, and Gilsbar for insurance.
(225) 314-7189 View (225) 314-7189
Photo of Marion Marold Vickerman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Marion Marold Vickerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Lumberton, TX 77657
Do you feel alone in your relationships? Do you feel like you are talking, and no one is listening? If you want to connect more and communicate better with people in your life, then I am the relationship therapist for you. I help individuals and couples that are prepared to transform and better understand their relationships in order to have enhanced emotional, intellectual, sexual, and spiritual connectedness. I do this by listening and problem solving with a confident, creative, and curious mind. This technique allows for a broader range of thought for problem solving that is "out of the box."
Do you feel alone in your relationships? Do you feel like you are talking, and no one is listening? If you want to connect more and communicate better with people in your life, then I am the relationship therapist for you. I help individuals and couples that are prepared to transform and better understand their relationships in order to have enhanced emotional, intellectual, sexual, and spiritual connectedness. I do this by listening and problem solving with a confident, creative, and curious mind. This technique allows for a broader range of thought for problem solving that is "out of the box."
(409) 219-0712 View (409) 219-0712
Photo of Catherine Purser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LNFA, CCHP
Catherine Purser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LNFA, CCHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that everyone’s journey through life is unique and deserving of empathy, respect, and expert guidance. My mission is to empower individuals, couples, and families to navigate life’s challenges and transitions. I aim to provide compassionate, evidence-based therapeutic services that foster resilience, insight, and growth for every life stage.
I believe that everyone’s journey through life is unique and deserving of empathy, respect, and expert guidance. My mission is to empower individuals, couples, and families to navigate life’s challenges and transitions. I aim to provide compassionate, evidence-based therapeutic services that foster resilience, insight, and growth for every life stage.
(409) 403-5264 View (409) 403-5264
Photo of Gregory Mark Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd CMH, MA CE
Gregory Mark Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd CMH, MA CE
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77706
Life can get messy, confusing, and depressing. Sometimes it happens at a moment’s notice, or often conflict occurs because choices are made that create turmoil over time. I would like to guide you to find clarity and peace on your journey toward a richer, fuller life. I desire to help people in a time of need. Staying true to this heart strategy, I became a licensed professional counselor in 2019. My goal is simple: I will work with you to promote a healthier mental and emotional state that leads to victory in your life.
Life can get messy, confusing, and depressing. Sometimes it happens at a moment’s notice, or often conflict occurs because choices are made that create turmoil over time. I would like to guide you to find clarity and peace on your journey toward a richer, fuller life. I desire to help people in a time of need. Staying true to this heart strategy, I became a licensed professional counselor in 2019. My goal is simple: I will work with you to promote a healthier mental and emotional state that leads to victory in your life.
(409) 403-5857 View (409) 403-5857
Photo of James Jude Richardelle, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
James Jude Richardelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Planning your treatment is the first step to success. We will plan your treatment together. I may be an expert in the mental health field, however I'm not an expert in your life. Only you are the expert in your life, and working together we can achieve goals.
Planning your treatment is the first step to success. We will plan your treatment together. I may be an expert in the mental health field, however I'm not an expert in your life. Only you are the expert in your life, and working together we can achieve goals.
(409) 207-9497 View (409) 207-9497
Photo of Maria Valentich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maria Valentich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm Maria Valentich, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Texas. I take a client-centered approach to therapy. My personal belief and goal is to make therapy easy to access for you. I can help you with common life stressors like symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship problems, and conflict resolution. I operate primarily through a cognitive behavioral approach, meaning as we work together, attention is focused on your thoughts, emotions and behaviors and how they impact your life. I also am skilled in other approaches and will adjust according to what you need.
Hi, I'm Maria Valentich, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Texas. I take a client-centered approach to therapy. My personal belief and goal is to make therapy easy to access for you. I can help you with common life stressors like symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship problems, and conflict resolution. I operate primarily through a cognitive behavioral approach, meaning as we work together, attention is focused on your thoughts, emotions and behaviors and how they impact your life. I also am skilled in other approaches and will adjust according to what you need.
(737) 250-6584 View (737) 250-6584
Photo of Alissa Sladek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alissa Sladek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Alissa and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in the mental health field since 2012. I work with adults 18 and over on many different mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, BPD, Bipolar, Adjustment Disorder, relationship issues, work issues, and family stress, among other things. I use CBT, DBT, and Strength-based approaches to help individuals achieve the life they want and enjoy using different approaches with therapy as I know everyone is an individual and has individual needs.
Welcome! My name is Alissa and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in the mental health field since 2012. I work with adults 18 and over on many different mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, BPD, Bipolar, Adjustment Disorder, relationship issues, work issues, and family stress, among other things. I use CBT, DBT, and Strength-based approaches to help individuals achieve the life they want and enjoy using different approaches with therapy as I know everyone is an individual and has individual needs.
(832) 479-2812 View (832) 479-2812
Photo of Steve Lackey, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CAMF
Steve Lackey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CAMF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77701
As an Individual Psychology and Humanistic professional counselor, I believe you, the client, have the ability to choose how best to resolve your problems and make decisions with my assistance as facilitator. You are responsible for your behaviors, thoughts, and feelings and are the world's leading expert on yourself. I encourage you to develop greater self-awareness and mental health through life experiences, building increased confidence, self-esteem, independence, and capacity to effectively navigate the challenges of life. I believe your sense of self-awareness and ability to make healthy choices are key to developing self-direction and independence.
As an Individual Psychology and Humanistic professional counselor, I believe you, the client, have the ability to choose how best to resolve your problems and make decisions with my assistance as facilitator. You are responsible for your behaviors, thoughts, and feelings and are the world's leading expert on yourself. I encourage you to develop greater self-awareness and mental health through life experiences, building increased confidence, self-esteem, independence, and capacity to effectively navigate the challenges of life. I believe your sense of self-awareness and ability to make healthy choices are key to developing self-direction and independence.
(409) 420-1527 View (409) 420-1527
Photo of Carla Badgett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, DMin, MS, LPC
Carla Badgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, DMin, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77706
Everyone goes through difficult times. We all have issues and there are moments that we can benefit by having a professional counselor listen and help us deal with anxiety, brokenness, confusion, depression, pain, grief, or problems in our relationships. Counseling can provide insights and guide us to discover new ways to cope, improve ourselves, find more enjoyment in life, increase self esteem, be healthier, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.
Everyone goes through difficult times. We all have issues and there are moments that we can benefit by having a professional counselor listen and help us deal with anxiety, brokenness, confusion, depression, pain, grief, or problems in our relationships. Counseling can provide insights and guide us to discover new ways to cope, improve ourselves, find more enjoyment in life, increase self esteem, be healthier, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.
(409) 999-3054 View (409) 999-3054
Photo of Sonia Torres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sonia Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Sonia Torres and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Austin, TX. I work with adolescents and young adults and specialize in working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma and are struggling with anxiety and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy to create the best care for my clients. Some of the therapeutic modalities I use are Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based practices. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for you to process experiences.
My name is Sonia Torres and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Austin, TX. I work with adolescents and young adults and specialize in working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma and are struggling with anxiety and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy to create the best care for my clients. Some of the therapeutic modalities I use are Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based practices. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for you to process experiences.
(346) 482-2549 View (346) 482-2549

See more therapy options for Kountze

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kountze, TX

< 10

Therapists in Kountze, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Family Conflict
100% Coping Skills
80% Relationship Issues
80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Parenting
80% Suicidal Ideation

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Kountze, TX see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kountze?

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.