Therapists in Artesia, CA

Photo of Katie Plumb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Artesia, CA
Katie Plumb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced stressors so severe that you cannot seem to move on? You may try to put it out of your mind and avoid triggering things, but you continue to feel stuck reliving those painful and frightening memories. Feeling controlled by your past can make it feel like you are destined to suffer. I have wonderful news though—recovery is possible. Having worked extensively with trauma and Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD), I can say with certainty that there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is nothing more rewarding to me than walking alongside clients as they emerge from the grips of their past.
Have you experienced stressors so severe that you cannot seem to move on? You may try to put it out of your mind and avoid triggering things, but you continue to feel stuck reliving those painful and frightening memories. Feeling controlled by your past can make it feel like you are destined to suffer. I have wonderful news though—recovery is possible. Having worked extensively with trauma and Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD), I can say with certainty that there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is nothing more rewarding to me than walking alongside clients as they emerge from the grips of their past.
(562) 731-0549 View (562) 731-0549
Photo of Christal Vizcarra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Christal Vizcarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701
Life right now can feel especially overwhelming with challenging situations, creating feelings of depression, anxiety, or a sense of feeling lost. I can offer you a safe, supportive, and judgement free environment, helping guide you towards healthier relationships, emotions, and life choices. If you are struggling with life's demands, seeking help is a great way to begin making changes in your life. I work primarily client-centered, which means each person is unique and my goal is to build a specific experience that is best for you.
Life right now can feel especially overwhelming with challenging situations, creating feelings of depression, anxiety, or a sense of feeling lost. I can offer you a safe, supportive, and judgement free environment, helping guide you towards healthier relationships, emotions, and life choices. If you are struggling with life's demands, seeking help is a great way to begin making changes in your life. I work primarily client-centered, which means each person is unique and my goal is to build a specific experience that is best for you.
(562) 268-5748 View (562) 268-5748
Photo of Alma Ortiz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Alma Ortiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701  (Online Only)
I work with creatives, artist, empaths, visionaries, storytellers, eccentrics and healers who are called to use their unique gifts to attend to their personal wellbeing, heal intergenerational trauma, and are called to be of service to the community and the planet. I provide trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapy to people in the BIPOC community.
I work with creatives, artist, empaths, visionaries, storytellers, eccentrics and healers who are called to use their unique gifts to attend to their personal wellbeing, heal intergenerational trauma, and are called to be of service to the community and the planet. I provide trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapy to people in the BIPOC community.
(562) 526-1287 View (562) 526-1287
Photo of Tina D. Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Tina D. Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701
I focus on harnessing positive energy to help clients create personal success in their lives and relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore difficult emotions and identify negative patterns that may be hindering their happiness and success. Together, I work with my clients to help them let go of negative patterns and create positive changes in their lives.
I focus on harnessing positive energy to help clients create personal success in their lives and relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore difficult emotions and identify negative patterns that may be hindering their happiness and success. Together, I work with my clients to help them let go of negative patterns and create positive changes in their lives.
(562) 418-5589 View (562) 418-5589
Photo of Chelsea Rocha, Counselor in Artesia, CA
Chelsea Rocha
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701
Hi there, I'm Chelsea! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have a School Counseling (Pupil Personnel Services) Credential. I provide mental health services in English and Spanish. I have assisted clients who struggle with grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, ADHD, suicidal behavior, and attachment disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and a Humanistic paradigm to guide my treatment with Clients.
Hi there, I'm Chelsea! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have a School Counseling (Pupil Personnel Services) Credential. I provide mental health services in English and Spanish. I have assisted clients who struggle with grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, ADHD, suicidal behavior, and attachment disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and a Humanistic paradigm to guide my treatment with Clients.
(951) 257-9158 View (951) 257-9158
Photo of April Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
April Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701
I believe therapy is only successful through a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to establish that relationship quickly so that progress can be made toward one's goals. Empathy, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard are key to establishing that trust. I have over 20 years of experience working with children, teenagers, and adults in a variety of therapeutic settings. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and relational modalities to facilitate change and growth.
I believe therapy is only successful through a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to establish that relationship quickly so that progress can be made toward one's goals. Empathy, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard are key to establishing that trust. I have over 20 years of experience working with children, teenagers, and adults in a variety of therapeutic settings. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and relational modalities to facilitate change and growth.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Holly M Hooton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Holly M Hooton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT115
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701
My volunteering at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Aids Project led me to a volunteer management career. I went on to work with volunteers in a medical center, humane society, and adult literacy program. I returned to college later in life to pursue a career in counseling. My desire to become a therapist developed over time as I gained more insight into my own life. A failed marriage landed me in therapy, where I was able to deal with my anger and emotional pain. After some years of antidepressant medication and therapy, I gained a new lease on life.
My volunteering at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Aids Project led me to a volunteer management career. I went on to work with volunteers in a medical center, humane society, and adult literacy program. I returned to college later in life to pursue a career in counseling. My desire to become a therapist developed over time as I gained more insight into my own life. A failed marriage landed me in therapy, where I was able to deal with my anger and emotional pain. After some years of antidepressant medication and therapy, I gained a new lease on life.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Soultenders, Inc, Psychologist in Artesia, CA
Soultenders, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701
I have a special interest in working with couples and families and in doing Dream Work with my individual clients. Much of the therapeutic work I do is based on the theories of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, & James Hillman. However, I do balance my practice using other therapeutic techniques from other theorists as well. It is not so important for me to apply a certain theory or my own beliefs on a client but instead it is my intention to really understand my clients' own personal beliefs and expectations of therapy. This aids in
I have a special interest in working with couples and families and in doing Dream Work with my individual clients. Much of the therapeutic work I do is based on the theories of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, & James Hillman. However, I do balance my practice using other therapeutic techniques from other theorists as well. It is not so important for me to apply a certain theory or my own beliefs on a client but instead it is my intention to really understand my clients' own personal beliefs and expectations of therapy. This aids in
(626) 498-2187 View (626) 498-2187
Photo of Susan Sosa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Susan Sosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Hi there, I'm Susan! I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 20 years. My clinical experience has been working with adults, adolescents, and children providing individual, couple, & group psychotherapy. Psychotherapy refers to different techniques and methods used to help people who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Although there are different types of psychotherapy, each relies on communication as the basic tool for bringing about change in a person's feelings and behaviors.
Hi there, I'm Susan! I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 20 years. My clinical experience has been working with adults, adolescents, and children providing individual, couple, & group psychotherapy. Psychotherapy refers to different techniques and methods used to help people who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Although there are different types of psychotherapy, each relies on communication as the basic tool for bringing about change in a person's feelings and behaviors.
(213) 566-7186 View (213) 566-7186
Photo of Krystal Faraz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Artesia, CA
Krystal Faraz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Hello there! My name is Krystal Faraz and I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Washington state as well as California. I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-centered, solution focused therapy (SFT) along with other modalities as indicated. I take a very direct approach with practical skills to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. I assist individuals dealing with anxiety and depression.
Hello there! My name is Krystal Faraz and I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Washington state as well as California. I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-centered, solution focused therapy (SFT) along with other modalities as indicated. I take a very direct approach with practical skills to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. I assist individuals dealing with anxiety and depression.
(323) 922-4014 View (323) 922-4014
Photo of Zully Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Zully Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Hi! My name is Zully Garcia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California. I provide mental health services statewide through telehealth. I work with women, teens, and children. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, and children's issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy to help my clients feel better. Every client is different and therefore my approach varies on the client's unique needs and strengths.
Hi! My name is Zully Garcia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California. I provide mental health services statewide through telehealth. I work with women, teens, and children. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, and children's issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy to help my clients feel better. Every client is different and therefore my approach varies on the client's unique needs and strengths.
(323) 641-4789 View (323) 641-4789
Photo of Kaela Pangburn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Kaela Pangburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Kaela Pangburn, MA, LMFT 128505. I believe therapy should be highly individualized and client-centered. My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship so that clients can feel safe enough to explore the most difficult parts of themselves. I have a wide range of experience when it comes to clients. While I specialize in treating complex trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, I am confident in supporting clients with a variety of mental health issues. I have experience working with diverse populations including BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, as well as non-binary and trans clients.
Kaela Pangburn, MA, LMFT 128505. I believe therapy should be highly individualized and client-centered. My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship so that clients can feel safe enough to explore the most difficult parts of themselves. I have a wide range of experience when it comes to clients. While I specialize in treating complex trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, I am confident in supporting clients with a variety of mental health issues. I have experience working with diverse populations including BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, as well as non-binary and trans clients.
(916) 602-4594 View (916) 602-4594
Photo of Bernadette Guidry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Bernadette Guidry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with many years of experience. I specialize in depth psychotherapy and the treatment of trauma with mindfulness, somatic awareness and compassionate presence. My area of focus includes managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, authentic self expression, PTSD and healing from life and relational trauma. The process of helping people to unfold more of who they really are and step more fully into living the lives they long for is a deep commitment and my life's work.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with many years of experience. I specialize in depth psychotherapy and the treatment of trauma with mindfulness, somatic awareness and compassionate presence. My area of focus includes managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, authentic self expression, PTSD and healing from life and relational trauma. The process of helping people to unfold more of who they really are and step more fully into living the lives they long for is a deep commitment and my life's work.
(657) 300-3734 View (657) 300-3734
Photo of Samantha Tomarchio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Samantha Tomarchio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Ciao, I'm Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, LMFT. I am a licensed trauma, sex, and relationship psychotherapist. My work is intersectional, attachment-based, and rooted in somatic awareness of the body with a mindfulness twist. I have extensive experience working with folks who hold multicultural identities, who are of the LBGTQIA+ population, as well as, though not limited to, those struggling with sexual / sexuality-related intimacy and relationship issues.
Ciao, I'm Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, LMFT. I am a licensed trauma, sex, and relationship psychotherapist. My work is intersectional, attachment-based, and rooted in somatic awareness of the body with a mindfulness twist. I have extensive experience working with folks who hold multicultural identities, who are of the LBGTQIA+ population, as well as, though not limited to, those struggling with sexual / sexuality-related intimacy and relationship issues.
(323) 990-4309 View (323) 990-4309
Photo of Rebecca Ann Rice, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Rebecca Ann Rice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Hi there, I'm Rebecca Rice, LMFT. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, complex and developmental trauma, acute and chronic PTSD, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional and sexual abuse, relationship problems, grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is drawn from many theories: EMDR, CBT, Attachment Theory, Solution-Focused, trauma-informed care and a holistic mind body approach. I'm guided by individual needs and reinforce strengths and abilities to facilitate change in the briefest time possible. You get to decide who you invite on your journey; I feel blessed to be a part of yours.
Hi there, I'm Rebecca Rice, LMFT. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, complex and developmental trauma, acute and chronic PTSD, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional and sexual abuse, relationship problems, grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is drawn from many theories: EMDR, CBT, Attachment Theory, Solution-Focused, trauma-informed care and a holistic mind body approach. I'm guided by individual needs and reinforce strengths and abilities to facilitate change in the briefest time possible. You get to decide who you invite on your journey; I feel blessed to be a part of yours.
(707) 876-0605 View (707) 876-0605
Photo of Rebecca Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Artesia, CA
Rebecca Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701  (Online Only)
I support individuals in search of an objective point of view and conceptualizing occurring problems or issues. I am comfortable working with a diverse population and a diversity of presenting problems. I like to include educational facts that could be helpful to your situation but also focus on casual conversation to increase rapport and comfort. Helping others through tough transitions and mental health difficulties is my passion.
I support individuals in search of an objective point of view and conceptualizing occurring problems or issues. I am comfortable working with a diverse population and a diversity of presenting problems. I like to include educational facts that could be helpful to your situation but also focus on casual conversation to increase rapport and comfort. Helping others through tough transitions and mental health difficulties is my passion.
(562) 784-8278 View (562) 784-8278
Photo of Samantha Romero Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Artesia, CA
Samantha Romero Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.” Seeking help is one of the bravest things someone can do. Therapy is a journey about healing and growth. Allow me to walk alongside you on your journey.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.” Seeking help is one of the bravest things someone can do. Therapy is a journey about healing and growth. Allow me to walk alongside you on your journey.
(209) 279-2202 View (209) 279-2202
Photo of Veronica Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Artesia, CA
Veronica Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
(657) 837-3875 View (657) 837-3875
Photo of Sheila Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Sheila Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
I'm Sheila Henry, LMFT and I have been practicing for over 25 years. I am passionate about helping you remove obstacles standing in your way so that you can lead the life you desire. I focus on depression, anxiety, and loneliness. My passion is to help single individuals overcome the barriers to building meaningful, healthy relationships. I believe that the mind and the body are connected so I use EFT or "tapping" on the meridian acupuncture points along with Western modalities. I am also certified in cognitive therapy, solution-oriented, hypnosis, and gestalt therapy.
I'm Sheila Henry, LMFT and I have been practicing for over 25 years. I am passionate about helping you remove obstacles standing in your way so that you can lead the life you desire. I focus on depression, anxiety, and loneliness. My passion is to help single individuals overcome the barriers to building meaningful, healthy relationships. I believe that the mind and the body are connected so I use EFT or "tapping" on the meridian acupuncture points along with Western modalities. I am also certified in cognitive therapy, solution-oriented, hypnosis, and gestalt therapy.
(805) 424-5179 View (805) 424-5179
Photo of Joyce La Bianco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Artesia, CA
Joyce La Bianco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Graduate of Chapman University and the California State University of Fullerton, this California Based therapist has over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Feelings of Self Worth, and ADHD. In addition, I have experience working with those inflicted with a Persistent Mental Illness. Origins of self-limiting beliefs, which often affect how we feel about ourselves, are explored. Using a Mindful, Holistic and Cognitive Behavioral approach, therapeutic services aim to empower and propel clients toward living a happy and fulfilling life.
Graduate of Chapman University and the California State University of Fullerton, this California Based therapist has over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Feelings of Self Worth, and ADHD. In addition, I have experience working with those inflicted with a Persistent Mental Illness. Origins of self-limiting beliefs, which often affect how we feel about ourselves, are explored. Using a Mindful, Holistic and Cognitive Behavioral approach, therapeutic services aim to empower and propel clients toward living a happy and fulfilling life.
(951) 724-4391 View (951) 724-4391

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Artesia, CA

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Artesia, CA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Stress
70% Grief
70% Women's Issues
70% Life Transitions
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
87% Health Net
87% MHN | Health Net

How Therapists in Artesia, CA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Artesia?

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.