Therapists in Everett, WA

View neighborhoods in Everett
Photo of Thomas Armstrong, Psychologist in Everett, WA
Thomas Armstrong
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
I'm a Psychologist specializing in anxiety-related disorders, including panic disorder, health anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, worry, and stress/adjustment disorders. I earned my PhD at Vanderbilt University, with my fellowship and post-doctoral training at McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School. I'm also an Associate Professor of Psychology at Whitman College, with numerous publications on the assessment and treatment of anxiety. In 2023, I opened a private practice after gaining over 10 years of experience working with teens and adults in university, hospital, and community mental health settings.
I'm a Psychologist specializing in anxiety-related disorders, including panic disorder, health anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, worry, and stress/adjustment disorders. I earned my PhD at Vanderbilt University, with my fellowship and post-doctoral training at McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School. I'm also an Associate Professor of Psychology at Whitman College, with numerous publications on the assessment and treatment of anxiety. In 2023, I opened a private practice after gaining over 10 years of experience working with teens and adults in university, hospital, and community mental health settings.
(509) 739-3628 View (509) 739-3628
Photo of Charlene D. Takeuchi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Everett, WA
Charlene D. Takeuchi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Not accepting new clients
Adjustments, stress, dis-order, and dis-ease occur throughout our lifetime requiring our attention. My therapeutic style is informed from experience & education, and influenced through holistic (whole person) & clinical systems. Today, our community and personal lives are overwhelmed by chronic stress of information bombardment, employment & financial concerns, safety for ourselves & family, and concerns for community & country. Anxiety is amplified by excessive stress, and those feelings once under control may now need reinforcement. Mental health check-ups reassure perceptions are adaptable, and hope for tomorrow a reality.
Adjustments, stress, dis-order, and dis-ease occur throughout our lifetime requiring our attention. My therapeutic style is informed from experience & education, and influenced through holistic (whole person) & clinical systems. Today, our community and personal lives are overwhelmed by chronic stress of information bombardment, employment & financial concerns, safety for ourselves & family, and concerns for community & country. Anxiety is amplified by excessive stress, and those feelings once under control may now need reinforcement. Mental health check-ups reassure perceptions are adaptable, and hope for tomorrow a reality.
(425) 329-8973 View (425) 329-8973
Photo of George Manter Duwors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Everett, WA
George Manter Duwors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Maybe you already know you have a problem with alcohol or drugs, or maybe someone else thinks so. I start by asking what you think. The question is not what label to give you, but what, if anything, you might be considering changing. You might be surprised to hear me ask what is good about your use. What are your reasons to keep doing what you already do? And then we can look at what is not so good about it, from your point of view. No change is going to happen that does not make sense to you.
Maybe you already know you have a problem with alcohol or drugs, or maybe someone else thinks so. I start by asking what you think. The question is not what label to give you, but what, if anything, you might be considering changing. You might be surprised to hear me ask what is good about your use. What are your reasons to keep doing what you already do? And then we can look at what is not so good about it, from your point of view. No change is going to happen that does not make sense to you.
(425) 298-7938 View (425) 298-7938
Photo of Pat Martinelli, Counselor in Everett, WA
Pat Martinelli
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Not accepting new clients
As a client-focused, strength based, brief therapist I believe clients lead the way. It is my privilege to help you move towards your goals through self awareness and skills-based guidance. A person is much more than a diagnosis and at times labels can get in the way. Changes that match who a person is and where they are in their life lead to success. What we create together should be manageable so that "better" continues after our relationship ends.
As a client-focused, strength based, brief therapist I believe clients lead the way. It is my privilege to help you move towards your goals through self awareness and skills-based guidance. A person is much more than a diagnosis and at times labels can get in the way. Changes that match who a person is and where they are in their life lead to success. What we create together should be manageable so that "better" continues after our relationship ends.
(425) 217-8040 View (425) 217-8040
Photo of Erika Baxter, Counselor in Everett, WA
Erika Baxter
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Therapies that focus on brain change, heal symptoms more rapidly and get to the deepest part of the issue. I work from a positive perspective that is both challenging and supportive simultaneously. Some people come to me to grow in areas of peak performance and others come to break free from the gridlock they experience in their significant relationships. Many people are stuck in a depressive or anxious cycle that doesn't allow them to be authentic in how they engage the world. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I love it.
Therapies that focus on brain change, heal symptoms more rapidly and get to the deepest part of the issue. I work from a positive perspective that is both challenging and supportive simultaneously. Some people come to me to grow in areas of peak performance and others come to break free from the gridlock they experience in their significant relationships. Many people are stuck in a depressive or anxious cycle that doesn't allow them to be authentic in how they engage the world. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I love it.
(425) 249-3548 View (425) 249-3548
Photo of Kira Mauseth, Psychologist in Everett, WA
Kira Mauseth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with teenagers and adults on a variety of mental health issues including anxiety and coping, relationships, peer issues, job and performance, trauma, grief and loss. My approach is based on your needs and goals, and I typically use a combination of therapeutic styles in my work.
I specialize in working with teenagers and adults on a variety of mental health issues including anxiety and coping, relationships, peer issues, job and performance, trauma, grief and loss. My approach is based on your needs and goals, and I typically use a combination of therapeutic styles in my work.
(425) 967-8627 View (425) 967-8627
Photo of Grief is the New Normal Psychological Services, Psychologist in Everett, WA
Grief is the New Normal Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I hope that therapy will be a safe place to process life and better understand who you are. My main therapy focus is grief and loss, AND grief is a universal lived experience. Many challenges and complications we encounter fall under that umbrella from trauma to fertility to relationship dynamics evolving to identity changing. I'd be honored to walk with you through this season of grief (both death and non-death losses) and the myriad of feelings that come with it. It's okay to ask for help and prioritize yourself. I'm glad you're here.
I hope that therapy will be a safe place to process life and better understand who you are. My main therapy focus is grief and loss, AND grief is a universal lived experience. Many challenges and complications we encounter fall under that umbrella from trauma to fertility to relationship dynamics evolving to identity changing. I'd be honored to walk with you through this season of grief (both death and non-death losses) and the myriad of feelings that come with it. It's okay to ask for help and prioritize yourself. I'm glad you're here.
(425) 517-1778 View (425) 517-1778
Photo of Owen Bargreen, Psychologist in Everett, WA
Owen Bargreen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Psychology works because it is a way to help people understand their problems and correct or change so that they can live more healthy or satisfying lives. Many people come for therapy if they are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety or relationship issues. Some other common problems that I help treat are problems with work injuries, sleep, weight, stress, trauma, and sexual problems. These problems can be greatly helped through therapy. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, meeting each individual’s needs rather than using one form of treatment.
Psychology works because it is a way to help people understand their problems and correct or change so that they can live more healthy or satisfying lives. Many people come for therapy if they are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety or relationship issues. Some other common problems that I help treat are problems with work injuries, sleep, weight, stress, trauma, and sexual problems. These problems can be greatly helped through therapy. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, meeting each individual’s needs rather than using one form of treatment.
(425) 470-5190 View (425) 470-5190
Photo of Tobi Ricca, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Everett, WA
Tobi Ricca, MSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, FAAETS
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Come in. Bring your baggage. We'll sit together, unpack it, and figure out what has gone wrong and what now to do about it. It will be a journey, your journey; and I will be alongside you as a guide. Feeling overwhelmed and without direction is often what brings people into therapy. Once you take that step, you are no longer alone. Whether you are coping with a situational concern or a life-long condition, I have a range of approaches, honed during my 30 years in the profession that will be useful on your journey.
Come in. Bring your baggage. We'll sit together, unpack it, and figure out what has gone wrong and what now to do about it. It will be a journey, your journey; and I will be alongside you as a guide. Feeling overwhelmed and without direction is often what brings people into therapy. Once you take that step, you are no longer alone. Whether you are coping with a situational concern or a life-long condition, I have a range of approaches, honed during my 30 years in the profession that will be useful on your journey.
(833) 944-0699 View (833) 944-0699
Photo of Sandy Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Everett, WA
Sandy Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, SWAICL, MSW
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
The process of seeking and making the decision to come to therapy can be a challenging one. The state of the world today presents unique challenges for each of us. People are afraid, overwhelmed and "stuck". My hope is to ease some of these concerns around starting our work together to build a strong therapeutic relationship that will aid you in progressing towards your goals. The secure and supportive therapeutic space, which we will create together, will allow you to explore past and present issues where you feel stuck.
The process of seeking and making the decision to come to therapy can be a challenging one. The state of the world today presents unique challenges for each of us. People are afraid, overwhelmed and "stuck". My hope is to ease some of these concerns around starting our work together to build a strong therapeutic relationship that will aid you in progressing towards your goals. The secure and supportive therapeutic space, which we will create together, will allow you to explore past and present issues where you feel stuck.
(425) 406-3347 View (425) 406-3347
Photo of Billie-June Damon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Everett, WA
Billie-June Damon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98203
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about working with others to overcome challenges, so they may live the life they want and find their true self! Please reach out to me directly regarding availability.
I am passionate about working with others to overcome challenges, so they may live the life they want and find their true self! Please reach out to me directly regarding availability.
(425) 537-6651 View (425) 537-6651
Photo of Raman Kaur, Counselor in Everett, WA
Raman Kaur
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I work with a wide range of clients across the life span with a specialty in trauma, generational trauma, generational healing, and identity. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach in therapy. I have experience doing evaluations and therapy with neurodivergent individuals. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, self-discovery, trauma processing, and healing. I use a holistic approach in my work and believe that healing requires integrating mind, body, and spirit.
I work with a wide range of clients across the life span with a specialty in trauma, generational trauma, generational healing, and identity. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach in therapy. I have experience doing evaluations and therapy with neurodivergent individuals. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, self-discovery, trauma processing, and healing. I use a holistic approach in my work and believe that healing requires integrating mind, body, and spirit.
(425) 437-2190 View (425) 437-2190
Photo of Regina A. BlackWolf, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Everett, WA
Regina A. BlackWolf, MSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUD-P, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
Not accepting new clients
Approaching Authenticity: Life presents challenges that can feel like barriers to our true selves. Whether struggling to cope with major life changes, managing feelings, substance abuse issues, sense of self, relationships, or "feeling OK in my own skin," we can all benefit from a therapeutic relationship. My role is to help people find perspective, empower people to take steps to make positive change, and provide a safe, supportive atmosphere that is free of judgment. My approach is client-centered, strength-perspective, and I work to create a therapeutic relationship in which people can discover and take actions appropriate to improve one's life.
Approaching Authenticity: Life presents challenges that can feel like barriers to our true selves. Whether struggling to cope with major life changes, managing feelings, substance abuse issues, sense of self, relationships, or "feeling OK in my own skin," we can all benefit from a therapeutic relationship. My role is to help people find perspective, empower people to take steps to make positive change, and provide a safe, supportive atmosphere that is free of judgment. My approach is client-centered, strength-perspective, and I work to create a therapeutic relationship in which people can discover and take actions appropriate to improve one's life.
(206) 504-3358 View (206) 504-3358
Photo of Stanley Wilson, Psychologist in Everett, WA
Stanley Wilson
Psychologist, PhD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98208
Not accepting new clients
As a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I enjoy working with anyone seeking relief from the inevitable sufferings of life, e.g., depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, physical pain, relationship difficulties. I passionately believe you can learn to cultivate positive emotions and authentic happiness, regardless of your circumstances. My work is based on the following principles: (1) the process of healing always takes place in the context of a relationship, (2) that relationship is ideally characterized by trust, support and validation of your experience, and (3) you are not the problem, the “problem” is the problem.
As a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I enjoy working with anyone seeking relief from the inevitable sufferings of life, e.g., depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, physical pain, relationship difficulties. I passionately believe you can learn to cultivate positive emotions and authentic happiness, regardless of your circumstances. My work is based on the following principles: (1) the process of healing always takes place in the context of a relationship, (2) that relationship is ideally characterized by trust, support and validation of your experience, and (3) you are not the problem, the “problem” is the problem.
(425) 224-6842 View (425) 224-6842
Photo of Dr. Maria Yearout, Counselor in Everett, WA
Dr. Maria Yearout
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about offering specialized services to individuals, couples, and families in gender transition, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ2S+ community, including letter writing in support of gender affirming medical and surgical care. I use culturally competent, research-based modalities to help you shape the change and growth you want to see, and I honor your pace as we approach and engage with the work. Family Therapy fee same as Couples.
I am passionate about offering specialized services to individuals, couples, and families in gender transition, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ2S+ community, including letter writing in support of gender affirming medical and surgical care. I use culturally competent, research-based modalities to help you shape the change and growth you want to see, and I honor your pace as we approach and engage with the work. Family Therapy fee same as Couples.
(425) 217-8846 View (425) 217-8846
Photo of Port Gardner Counseling and Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Everett, WA
Port Gardner Counseling and Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical focus is children and teens in their families. My work with families is through an attachment lens. With the goal of helping families grow in relationship with each other so that emotions can be experienced in a new, meaningful and healing way. I help caregivers shift their perspective on their child's tantrums, meltdowns, and testing/defiant behaviors to grow the caregiver/child relationship to a secure and safe training ground. The child will learn to trust their emotions and through this practice grow into teens and adults who can set boundaries, trust their gut and take healthy risks as their sense of self grows.
My clinical focus is children and teens in their families. My work with families is through an attachment lens. With the goal of helping families grow in relationship with each other so that emotions can be experienced in a new, meaningful and healing way. I help caregivers shift their perspective on their child's tantrums, meltdowns, and testing/defiant behaviors to grow the caregiver/child relationship to a secure and safe training ground. The child will learn to trust their emotions and through this practice grow into teens and adults who can set boundaries, trust their gut and take healthy risks as their sense of self grows.
(425) 470-4047 View (425) 470-4047
Photo of Robyn Renee, Counselor in Everett, WA
Robyn Renee
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CIIP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Pursuing optimal intimacy improves your mental and physical health. I am an experienced therapist who is direct, affirming and effective in helping couples and individuals 'do what works' in and out of the bedroom. This requires facing and dealing with what holds you back, shuts you down, turns you off and intimidates you--in order to potentially open you up, draw you closer, and strengthen your bonds of authentic love. In our dynamic therapeutic process, you can also learn how to become irresistibly desirable and pursuable (once again)! The lovers' dance is born anew. I work with individuals and couples. Let's connect.
Pursuing optimal intimacy improves your mental and physical health. I am an experienced therapist who is direct, affirming and effective in helping couples and individuals 'do what works' in and out of the bedroom. This requires facing and dealing with what holds you back, shuts you down, turns you off and intimidates you--in order to potentially open you up, draw you closer, and strengthen your bonds of authentic love. In our dynamic therapeutic process, you can also learn how to become irresistibly desirable and pursuable (once again)! The lovers' dance is born anew. I work with individuals and couples. Let's connect.
(425) 654-1763 View (425) 654-1763
Photo of Ellen Soukup-Landeau, Psychologist in Everett, WA
Ellen Soukup-Landeau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
I work with a wide range of clients across the lifespan, with a specialty in neurodiversity, children, and adolescents. I use a person-centered and strengths based approach in therapy and assessment. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, parenting challenges, and self-discovery. If you are curious about how your or your child's mind works, how you can see change and growth in your life, or how you can live a life in line with your personal values, I can help.
I work with a wide range of clients across the lifespan, with a specialty in neurodiversity, children, and adolescents. I use a person-centered and strengths based approach in therapy and assessment. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, parenting challenges, and self-discovery. If you are curious about how your or your child's mind works, how you can see change and growth in your life, or how you can live a life in line with your personal values, I can help.
(425) 371-7108 View (425) 371-7108
Photo of Cerissa Rhodes in Everett, WA
Cerissa Rhodes
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
Struggling with your kiddo's anxiety and those overwhelming emotions? Unsure when to step in or let them handle it? Are you struggling with your own guilt and mixed emotions? Been there! As a licensed therapist turned parent coach, I specialize in supporting mamas of kiddos with anxiety. Let me help you understand your kiddo's behavior, provide concrete tools to manage meltdowns and refusals and teach you the skills you need to effectively manage your kiddo's anxiety. You want to be the best support for your little one, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's tackle this together!
Struggling with your kiddo's anxiety and those overwhelming emotions? Unsure when to step in or let them handle it? Are you struggling with your own guilt and mixed emotions? Been there! As a licensed therapist turned parent coach, I specialize in supporting mamas of kiddos with anxiety. Let me help you understand your kiddo's behavior, provide concrete tools to manage meltdowns and refusals and teach you the skills you need to effectively manage your kiddo's anxiety. You want to be the best support for your little one, and I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's tackle this together!
(425) 491-1841 View (425) 491-1841
Photo of Higher Vibration Counseling Mental Coaching PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Everett, WA
Higher Vibration Counseling Mental Coaching PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
Immediate Openings for Premera, Aetna, and Cigna. Email preferred. Feeling stuck? Ready to make changes but are unsure where to start? Do you find yourself self-sabotaging before you reach your goals? Have you experienced past trauma that seems to be impacting your present? I'm here to lend a hand through collaboration and therapeutic modality's designed to address your needs, and help you get "Unstuck"
Immediate Openings for Premera, Aetna, and Cigna. Email preferred. Feeling stuck? Ready to make changes but are unsure where to start? Do you find yourself self-sabotaging before you reach your goals? Have you experienced past trauma that seems to be impacting your present? I'm here to lend a hand through collaboration and therapeutic modality's designed to address your needs, and help you get "Unstuck"
(425) 470-4185 View (425) 470-4185

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Everett, WA

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Everett, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
70% Stress
69% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera
68% Regence
62% Aetna

How Therapists in Everett, WA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
25% Male
2% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Everett?

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.