Therapists in Nevada, TX

Photo of Katherine L. Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CBT, EMDR
Katherine L. Crane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CBT, EMDR
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I will walk alongside you as a fellow traveler, helping you explore the beliefs and ideas you hold about yourself and how they align—or don’t—with your lived experiences. Together, we’ll focus on any incongruence between the two, using that awareness as a foundation for meaningful change. I believe that every person has an inherent capacity for growth. Don't let your past hold you down from the life you want now! During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan in a way that helps you get your life back! I’ll help you have the life you love or love the life you have!
I will walk alongside you as a fellow traveler, helping you explore the beliefs and ideas you hold about yourself and how they align—or don’t—with your lived experiences. Together, we’ll focus on any incongruence between the two, using that awareness as a foundation for meaningful change. I believe that every person has an inherent capacity for growth. Don't let your past hold you down from the life you want now! During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan in a way that helps you get your life back! I’ll help you have the life you love or love the life you have!
(214) 716-0267 View (214) 716-0267
Photo of Jill Yarbrough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jill Yarbrough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy providing support across the lifespan, to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have experience working with individuals experiencing acute traumatic events as well as coping with lengthy and challenging medical issues. The majority of my experience is in the areas of coping with chronic medical issues, grief and loss, stressful life events, mental health disorders and trauma. I also enjoy working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and body image issues. I offer play therapy for younger clients and provide an individualized treatment approach based on the needs of each unique person
I enjoy providing support across the lifespan, to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have experience working with individuals experiencing acute traumatic events as well as coping with lengthy and challenging medical issues. The majority of my experience is in the areas of coping with chronic medical issues, grief and loss, stressful life events, mental health disorders and trauma. I also enjoy working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and body image issues. I offer play therapy for younger clients and provide an individualized treatment approach based on the needs of each unique person
(214) 214-4908 View (214) 214-4908
Photo of Logen Ashford, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Logen Ashford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I offer counseling for children, teens, adult individuals, and couples facing a wide range of challenges, including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, relationship issues, spiritual struggles, and much more. Some of my goals are to help you understand what you are going through and help you develop useful skills so you can overcome the trials and hardships you face. Using a person-centered approach, I believe you are the expert on your life. Part of my role is to guide you toward skills and tools that will be most useful for you to help you accomplish the specific goals you’d like to achieve in your life.
I offer counseling for children, teens, adult individuals, and couples facing a wide range of challenges, including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, relationship issues, spiritual struggles, and much more. Some of my goals are to help you understand what you are going through and help you develop useful skills so you can overcome the trials and hardships you face. Using a person-centered approach, I believe you are the expert on your life. Part of my role is to guide you toward skills and tools that will be most useful for you to help you accomplish the specific goals you’d like to achieve in your life.
(469) 966-2520 View (469) 966-2520
Photo of Erica Meshell, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Erica Meshell
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
All people at their core desire to be seen, heard, and valued as their most authentic self, but being vulnerable is the ultimate POWER move, but it can be unfamiliar, uncomfortable, and freaking scary. My hope is to honor that and do what I can to make it less so. I'm a neurodivergent extravert whose passions include people and stories, and my goal is to give your story a safe place to land, help you find the magic in it, and help you feel less alone in the messiness. Building a life worth living begins and ends with connection, regulation, and acceptance, but getting there doesn't have to be a lonely road.
All people at their core desire to be seen, heard, and valued as their most authentic self, but being vulnerable is the ultimate POWER move, but it can be unfamiliar, uncomfortable, and freaking scary. My hope is to honor that and do what I can to make it less so. I'm a neurodivergent extravert whose passions include people and stories, and my goal is to give your story a safe place to land, help you find the magic in it, and help you feel less alone in the messiness. Building a life worth living begins and ends with connection, regulation, and acceptance, but getting there doesn't have to be a lonely road.
(972) 833-6439 View (972) 833-6439
Photo of Elanderia Rowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elanderia Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Elanderia Rowe, LCSW, NSW-C. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of professional experience in providing emotional support to patients with Chronic Medical Conditions as well as clients who are experiencing situational life adjustment issues resulting in increased signs/symptoms of depression and anxiety. My goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges by fostering resilience, empowerment, and positive change. By integrating lived experiences with clinical expertise, I am known for creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Elanderia Rowe, LCSW, NSW-C. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of professional experience in providing emotional support to patients with Chronic Medical Conditions as well as clients who are experiencing situational life adjustment issues resulting in increased signs/symptoms of depression and anxiety. My goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges by fostering resilience, empowerment, and positive change. By integrating lived experiences with clinical expertise, I am known for creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(346) 626-3883 View (346) 626-3883

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristie Keeling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kristie Keeling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Prosper, TX 75078
Kristie utilizes a strength-based approach to boost self-esteem and confidence to provide a supportive environment catered to each client. Children, especially younger ones, often struggle to express what is bothering them or why they feel the way they do. Play, as a child’s first language, helps bridge this communication gap. By integrating play into therapy, Kristie creates an environment where children can express themselves naturally, making counseling both fun and effective.
Kristie utilizes a strength-based approach to boost self-esteem and confidence to provide a supportive environment catered to each client. Children, especially younger ones, often struggle to express what is bothering them or why they feel the way they do. Play, as a child’s first language, helps bridge this communication gap. By integrating play into therapy, Kristie creates an environment where children can express themselves naturally, making counseling both fun and effective.
(214) 571-7908 View (214) 571-7908
Photo of Traci Alisia Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Traci Alisia Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has provided behavioral health services to individuals since 2011. My practice approach is to start where you are in your life. I will compassionately listen to help you gain insight and develop tools to cope with life's challenges. Life transitions are normal, but sometimes living life can become so overwhelming you need someone to talk to about it. My goal is to help you cope with these changes and to move forward.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has provided behavioral health services to individuals since 2011. My practice approach is to start where you are in your life. I will compassionately listen to help you gain insight and develop tools to cope with life's challenges. Life transitions are normal, but sometimes living life can become so overwhelming you need someone to talk to about it. My goal is to help you cope with these changes and to move forward.
(469) 947-9811 View (469) 947-9811
Photo of Erica Carpenter, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Erica Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
5 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Relationships and life transitions can stir up uncertainty, disconnection, and old patterns that no longer serve you. Whether you're navigating changes in your relationship, career, family life, or identity, therapy can offer a space to pause, reflect, and realign with what matters most.
Relationships and life transitions can stir up uncertainty, disconnection, and old patterns that no longer serve you. Whether you're navigating changes in your relationship, career, family life, or identity, therapy can offer a space to pause, reflect, and realign with what matters most.
(832) 730-4288 View (832) 730-4288
Photo of Brenda Cochran - Zoe Integrated Health PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Zoe Integrated Health PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I have over 23 years experience working exclusively with complex issues related to women. My approach is client centered & integrative: I provide a “whole-person” therapeutic approach. I take into account spiritual, emotional, physical and social factors in your treatment. I work in the present, the future and will address the past if it is appropriate for your circumstance. I am trauma sensitive, I am a survivor of trauma and deeply understand the dynamic that comes with the decision to heal & change. My priority is creating safety and rapport. I listen and we decide together the most appropriate path or approach for your care
I have over 23 years experience working exclusively with complex issues related to women. My approach is client centered & integrative: I provide a “whole-person” therapeutic approach. I take into account spiritual, emotional, physical and social factors in your treatment. I work in the present, the future and will address the past if it is appropriate for your circumstance. I am trauma sensitive, I am a survivor of trauma and deeply understand the dynamic that comes with the decision to heal & change. My priority is creating safety and rapport. I listen and we decide together the most appropriate path or approach for your care
(602) 362-9012 View (602) 362-9012
Photo of Alyssa Nicole Williamson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alyssa Nicole Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
If you've tried other therapies and haven't gotten results, then let's talk! I bring over five years of experience in working in social services with children who are refugees, asylees, and trafficking survivors in foster care, followed by my 9 years of experience as a private practice therapist working with adults and teens. There are losses and hurts in life that you can’t just get off your chest, talk to a friend, walk off and get over. These kids knew that. I knew that. I have therapies in my toolkit that have been shown to get those chronic conditions and stuck problems moving.
If you've tried other therapies and haven't gotten results, then let's talk! I bring over five years of experience in working in social services with children who are refugees, asylees, and trafficking survivors in foster care, followed by my 9 years of experience as a private practice therapist working with adults and teens. There are losses and hurts in life that you can’t just get off your chest, talk to a friend, walk off and get over. These kids knew that. I knew that. I have therapies in my toolkit that have been shown to get those chronic conditions and stuck problems moving.
(972) 268-7839 View (972) 268-7839
Photo of Jessica Scott Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Jessica Scott Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Addison, TX 75001
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re juggling career, family, relationships, and expectations—yet still feeling stuck or unfulfilled. My clients are often women navigating change: returning to work after a break, changing careers, grief or loss, divorce, or shifting relationships. Many have spent years focused on others and are now ready to reconnect with themselves. They want clarity, support, and a space where they feel seen and heard. Together, we work to establish meaningful goals and create a life and career aligned with their values—so they can move forward with confidence and a renewed sense of empowerment.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re juggling career, family, relationships, and expectations—yet still feeling stuck or unfulfilled. My clients are often women navigating change: returning to work after a break, changing careers, grief or loss, divorce, or shifting relationships. Many have spent years focused on others and are now ready to reconnect with themselves. They want clarity, support, and a space where they feel seen and heard. Together, we work to establish meaningful goals and create a life and career aligned with their values—so they can move forward with confidence and a renewed sense of empowerment.
(469) 639-1612 View (469) 639-1612
Photo of Ehsan Adib Shabahang, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LCMHC, LMHC
Ehsan Adib Shabahang
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LCMHC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
When communication keeps breaking down, every talk can land in the same painful loop. Partners feel lonely, rejected, or invisible. I help couples and individuals rebuild trust, repair injuries, and shift from fighting to understanding. In our work we slow down the cycle, name the patterns, and make room for the needs, fears, and hopes underneath. I use CBT, DBT, the Gottman Method, mindfulness, and my Self Reflective Relationship Therapy workbook to build awareness, compassion, and practical skills. You will learn to pause, speak clearly, listen fully, and reconnect with the closeness you want.
When communication keeps breaking down, every talk can land in the same painful loop. Partners feel lonely, rejected, or invisible. I help couples and individuals rebuild trust, repair injuries, and shift from fighting to understanding. In our work we slow down the cycle, name the patterns, and make room for the needs, fears, and hopes underneath. I use CBT, DBT, the Gottman Method, mindfulness, and my Self Reflective Relationship Therapy workbook to build awareness, compassion, and practical skills. You will learn to pause, speak clearly, listen fully, and reconnect with the closeness you want.
(339) 231-8690 View (339) 231-8690
Photo of Morgan Taylor Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Morgan Taylor Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Dallas, TX 75230
Morgan works with young children, adolescents, and young adults. Morgan also works with adolescents and young adults entering or already in college. She helps with goal setting, time manage
Morgan works with young children, adolescents, and young adults. Morgan also works with adolescents and young adults entering or already in college. She helps with goal setting, time manage
(214) 240-5407 View (214) 240-5407
Photo of Kayla Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kayla Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the DFW area in Texas. I have lived here most of my life, but received my Bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University and my Master's degree from Texas State University. My passion is working with children and adolescents between the ages of 8-18. I am currently working towards becoming a certified eating disorder specialist, as building a healthy relationship with food is often such a crucial part of our mental health foundation.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the DFW area in Texas. I have lived here most of my life, but received my Bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University and my Master's degree from Texas State University. My passion is working with children and adolescents between the ages of 8-18. I am currently working towards becoming a certified eating disorder specialist, as building a healthy relationship with food is often such a crucial part of our mental health foundation.
(469) 224-1683 View (469) 224-1683
Photo of Latreanna White, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Latreanna White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Latreanna! I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Trauma Professional (CPT) integrating Psychodynamic & Existential Approaches. My passion is helping individuals navigate the complex emotions that come with life's significant changes. I aim to be fully present with my clients in their human experience, helping them understand where they are in life, how they arrived there, and where they want to go next.
Hi there, I'm Latreanna! I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Trauma Professional (CPT) integrating Psychodynamic & Existential Approaches. My passion is helping individuals navigate the complex emotions that come with life's significant changes. I aim to be fully present with my clients in their human experience, helping them understand where they are in life, how they arrived there, and where they want to go next.
(346) 585-8277 View (346) 585-8277
Photo of Mindy Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mindy Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Frisco, TX 75034
You may be a parent watching your child struggle with behavioral issues, anxiety, or depression—and you’re unsure how to help. Or perhaps you’re facing the emotional toll of divorce, custody disputes, adoption, or infertility. These moments can feel isolating and overwhelming. My ideal clients are families navigating complex emotional terrain who want compassionate, experienced guidance and practical support. You want to strengthen your family, support your child, and find clarity during life’s most challenging transitions.
You may be a parent watching your child struggle with behavioral issues, anxiety, or depression—and you’re unsure how to help. Or perhaps you’re facing the emotional toll of divorce, custody disputes, adoption, or infertility. These moments can feel isolating and overwhelming. My ideal clients are families navigating complex emotional terrain who want compassionate, experienced guidance and practical support. You want to strengthen your family, support your child, and find clarity during life’s most challenging transitions.
(817) 993-4019 View (817) 993-4019
Photo of Lisa O'Connor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Lisa O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
The life you want is possible. Love. Understanding. Connection. Peace. Healing. They are all possible…if you are willing to work to discover, understand and change what gets in the way of experiencing these blessings. Counseling can help you do this. I am a client-centered, attachment-oriented Licensed Professional Counselor with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health counseling from Texas A & M Commerce. Using a psychodynamic approach in a non-judgmental environment, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to uncover the unconscious beliefs, assumptions and fears that keep you from having the life and relationships you desire.
The life you want is possible. Love. Understanding. Connection. Peace. Healing. They are all possible…if you are willing to work to discover, understand and change what gets in the way of experiencing these blessings. Counseling can help you do this. I am a client-centered, attachment-oriented Licensed Professional Counselor with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health counseling from Texas A & M Commerce. Using a psychodynamic approach in a non-judgmental environment, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to uncover the unconscious beliefs, assumptions and fears that keep you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(903) 418-3410 View (903) 418-3410
Photo of Jamesa Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jamesa Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
With a background in medical social work, I support adults navigating grief, caregiving stress, chronic illness, and life transitions. My style is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented. I create space for you to feel heard without pressure while gently helping you explore patterns, clarify emotions, and build tools for relief and resilience. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change with steadiness, self-awareness, and compassion. I also use practical tools tailored to your goals.
With a background in medical social work, I support adults navigating grief, caregiving stress, chronic illness, and life transitions. My style is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented. I create space for you to feel heard without pressure while gently helping you explore patterns, clarify emotions, and build tools for relief and resilience. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change with steadiness, self-awareness, and compassion. I also use practical tools tailored to your goals.
(469) 654-3972 View (469) 654-3972
Photo of Dr. Sarah Hill, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Dr. Sarah Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Dallas, TX 75251
You’re tired of repeating patterns—overthinking, people-pleasing, anxiety that won’t quiet down. As an adult, you may feel stuck in roles, relationships, or cycles that no longer serve you, but aren’t sure how to break free. Whether you’re navigating grief, trauma, or depression, you want more than symptom relief—you want insight, clarity, and lasting change. My ideal client is curious about their inner world and ready to explore the “why” beneath their struggles. I offer psychodynamic therapy and psychological assessment to support diagnostic clarity, increase self-awareness, and guide meaningful healing.
You’re tired of repeating patterns—overthinking, people-pleasing, anxiety that won’t quiet down. As an adult, you may feel stuck in roles, relationships, or cycles that no longer serve you, but aren’t sure how to break free. Whether you’re navigating grief, trauma, or depression, you want more than symptom relief—you want insight, clarity, and lasting change. My ideal client is curious about their inner world and ready to explore the “why” beneath their struggles. I offer psychodynamic therapy and psychological assessment to support diagnostic clarity, increase self-awareness, and guide meaningful healing.
(469) 689-0714 View (469) 689-0714
Photo of Claire Bedford, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Claire Bedford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Dallas, TX 75206
I hold a strong belief that most, if not all, people could benefit from counseling in some form or fashion. My hope is to provide my clients a warm and nonjudgmental space so that we may explore their past and present and give them the opportunity to use their newfound insight to pave new paths that may better serve them.
I hold a strong belief that most, if not all, people could benefit from counseling in some form or fashion. My hope is to provide my clients a warm and nonjudgmental space so that we may explore their past and present and give them the opportunity to use their newfound insight to pave new paths that may better serve them.
(469) 535-7245 View (469) 535-7245

See more therapy options for Nevada

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Nevada, TX

< 10

Therapists in Nevada, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Self Esteem
100% Life Transitions
80% Relationship Issues
80% Parenting

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Nevada, TX see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Nevada?

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.