Therapists in Bradford, VT

Photo of Hilary Coons, PhD, Psychologist
Hilary Coons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bradford, VT 05033
Good psychological care offers people relief from acute pain and new ways of framing the challenges they face. We will work together using a variety of tools, strategies, and insights that support your recovery and growth. Seeing you through this process is my greatest honor. My approach is integrative and responsive, intelligent and professional.
Good psychological care offers people relief from acute pain and new ways of framing the challenges they face. We will work together using a variety of tools, strategies, and insights that support your recovery and growth. Seeing you through this process is my greatest honor. My approach is integrative and responsive, intelligent and professional.
(802) 427-7121 View (802) 427-7121
Photo of Cynthia Abry, LCMHC, CCATP, NCC, NCCMHC, Counselor
Cynthia Abry
Counselor, LCMHC, CCATP, NCC, NCCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with adults to improve communication and facilitate healing from trauma and/or issues that are impacting life in a negative way. I have extensive experience working to address the effects of sexual and physical abuse history, PTSD, OCD, as well as anxiety and depression. I am passionate about working with women who are dealing with transitions, marital, relationship and other challenges. I focus on building a trusting relationship, identifying solutions and strengths in order to facilitate transformation. I am trained in IFS, EMDR, and Play Therapy, among other approaches.
My specialty is working with adults to improve communication and facilitate healing from trauma and/or issues that are impacting life in a negative way. I have extensive experience working to address the effects of sexual and physical abuse history, PTSD, OCD, as well as anxiety and depression. I am passionate about working with women who are dealing with transitions, marital, relationship and other challenges. I focus on building a trusting relationship, identifying solutions and strengths in order to facilitate transformation. I am trained in IFS, EMDR, and Play Therapy, among other approaches.
(802) 529-4054 View (802) 529-4054
Photo of Theressa Harrigan, MS, JD, LCMHC, Counselor
Theressa Harrigan
Counselor, MS, JD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Over the last several years, we have all learned a great deal about our values. We have learned what we do and do not want out of life and our relationships. What is important is much clearer than before. Therapy can help navigate the way to that new life and to healthier relationships. I work with adults and couples of all ages with an emphasis on providing uncomplicated tools and communication skills strongly supported by research. Many clients struggle to stand up for themselves. I can teach that! Client sessions include humor, as it is a coping skill available to all of us.
Over the last several years, we have all learned a great deal about our values. We have learned what we do and do not want out of life and our relationships. What is important is much clearer than before. Therapy can help navigate the way to that new life and to healthier relationships. I work with adults and couples of all ages with an emphasis on providing uncomplicated tools and communication skills strongly supported by research. Many clients struggle to stand up for themselves. I can teach that! Client sessions include humor, as it is a coping skill available to all of us.
(802) 454-3144 View (802) 454-3144
Photo of Theressa Harrigan, MS, JD, LCPC , LCMHC, Counselor
Theressa Harrigan
Counselor, MS, JD, LCPC , LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Over the last several years, we have all learned a great deal about our values. We have learned what we do and do not want out of life and our relationships. What is important is much clearer than before. Therapy can help navigate the way to that new life and to healthier relationships. I work with adults and couples of all ages with an emphasis on providing uncomplicated tools and communication skills strongly supported by research. Many clients struggle to stand up for themselves. I can teach that! Client sessions include humor, as it is a coping skill available to all of us.
Over the last several years, we have all learned a great deal about our values. We have learned what we do and do not want out of life and our relationships. What is important is much clearer than before. Therapy can help navigate the way to that new life and to healthier relationships. I work with adults and couples of all ages with an emphasis on providing uncomplicated tools and communication skills strongly supported by research. Many clients struggle to stand up for themselves. I can teach that! Client sessions include humor, as it is a coping skill available to all of us.
(207) 618-8832 View (207) 618-8832
Photo of Meghan Garcia, MS, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Meghan Garcia
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC
Verified Verified
Bradford, VT 05033
Asking for help can be one of the hardest decisions/actions an individual takes when they are struggling with actively using alcohol and/or substances. I also believe it is the most courageous decision/action you may make in your life. An individual who does this is allowing themselves to be vulnerable. When done with the right support can be the most rewarding and empowering experience for an individual. My goal as a counselor is to provide a safe, warm space for you as the client to explore your relationship with alcohol and/or substances.
Asking for help can be one of the hardest decisions/actions an individual takes when they are struggling with actively using alcohol and/or substances. I also believe it is the most courageous decision/action you may make in your life. An individual who does this is allowing themselves to be vulnerable. When done with the right support can be the most rewarding and empowering experience for an individual. My goal as a counselor is to provide a safe, warm space for you as the client to explore your relationship with alcohol and/or substances.
(802) 613-0015 View (802) 613-0015
Photo of Renee L Schulze, MSW, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee L Schulze
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Bradford, VT 05033
Not accepting new clients
I have treated people with all forms of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I’m an EAP therapist and help employees with work stress and coping with difficult situations at work . I’m also trained in relief from narcissistic abuse and understanding “gaslighting” and “deflection” skills . I believe that people can feel better emotionally. I moved to VT in 2002 from CT where I worked for 14 years as a therapist in state facilities for the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Corrections.
I have treated people with all forms of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I’m an EAP therapist and help employees with work stress and coping with difficult situations at work . I’m also trained in relief from narcissistic abuse and understanding “gaslighting” and “deflection” skills . I believe that people can feel better emotionally. I moved to VT in 2002 from CT where I worked for 14 years as a therapist in state facilities for the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Corrections.
(802) 789-8467 View (802) 789-8467
Photo of Carol Elissa Owen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Elissa Owen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bradford, VT 05033
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to support clients in developing the specific skills, and taking the new actions, that will allow them to more effectively cope with the many challenges they face with the aging process. In addition, clients also find that one’s personal residence is the ideal place where a nurturing, supportive, and therapeutic relationship is established.
My goal is to support clients in developing the specific skills, and taking the new actions, that will allow them to more effectively cope with the many challenges they face with the aging process. In addition, clients also find that one’s personal residence is the ideal place where a nurturing, supportive, and therapeutic relationship is established.
(802) 424-9543 View (802) 424-9543

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Licia L Berry-Berard, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Licia L Berry-Berard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Thetford, VT 05054
With over 25 years of experience working with individuals and families, I offer three services: Counseling, Care Management and End-of-Life Doula. Through Counseling, we will explore challenges, opportunities and steps to support you in moving toward your goals. As a Care Manager, I will work with you and your loved ones to effectively manage health conditions and support care plans. We will identify needs and ways to work to meet those needs. As an End-of-Life Doula, I offer emotional and physical support, education about the dying process, preparation for what’s to come and support while grieving.
With over 25 years of experience working with individuals and families, I offer three services: Counseling, Care Management and End-of-Life Doula. Through Counseling, we will explore challenges, opportunities and steps to support you in moving toward your goals. As a Care Manager, I will work with you and your loved ones to effectively manage health conditions and support care plans. We will identify needs and ways to work to meet those needs. As an End-of-Life Doula, I offer emotional and physical support, education about the dying process, preparation for what’s to come and support while grieving.
(802) 441-6685 View (802) 441-6685
Photo of Aubrey Welch, LCMHC, Counselor
Aubrey Welch
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wells River, VT 05081
I think the connection between a therapist and client is the most important aspect of the counseling work. When a good relationship is established you can reach your goals and challenge yourself in an environment that feels safe. I enjoy working with children, teens, and families in a variety of ways. I also enjoy supporting parents with the many challenges of raising children in todays society. My theoretical approach is supported by Internal Family Systems theory where we will work with parts of self to help understand, and support a healthier version of ourselves.
I think the connection between a therapist and client is the most important aspect of the counseling work. When a good relationship is established you can reach your goals and challenge yourself in an environment that feels safe. I enjoy working with children, teens, and families in a variety of ways. I also enjoy supporting parents with the many challenges of raising children in todays society. My theoretical approach is supported by Internal Family Systems theory where we will work with parts of self to help understand, and support a healthier version of ourselves.
(802) 424-8349 View (802) 424-8349
Photo of Rebekah Doweyko - Bardwell Behavioral, LCMHC, CEDS-C, Counselor
Bardwell Behavioral
Counselor, LCMHC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
(802) 328-9305 View (802) 328-9305
Photo of Gregory V Wilson, DMin, Pastoral Counselor
Gregory V Wilson
Pastoral Counselor, DMin
Not Verified Not Verified
Vershire, VT 05079
Dr. Gregory Wilson offers affordable counseling for individuals, families, couples, and children. He has thirty years' experience, including working with codependency, anxiety and depression, and intimacy and communication issues. The focus is based on this question,” What needs to change to get you going where you want to go?, and what is gong on that the change has yet to happen? “The more the drive toward life is thwarted, the stronger is the drive toward destruction; the more life is realized, the less is the strength of destructiveness. Destructiveness is the outcome of unlived life.”
Dr. Gregory Wilson offers affordable counseling for individuals, families, couples, and children. He has thirty years' experience, including working with codependency, anxiety and depression, and intimacy and communication issues. The focus is based on this question,” What needs to change to get you going where you want to go?, and what is gong on that the change has yet to happen? “The more the drive toward life is thwarted, the stronger is the drive toward destruction; the more life is realized, the less is the strength of destructiveness. Destructiveness is the outcome of unlived life.”
(772) 919-8043 View (772) 919-8043
Photo of Laura Babineau, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Babineau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about supporting people who are experiencing grief and recovering from trauma. Everyone experiences grief differently, but my personal experience with grief and trauma informs my work and allows me to approach it from a place of empathy and understanding. My years of experience have taught me that working with a client’s natural strengths can help promote lasting healing and change. I make every effort to create a partnership in which clients feel seen, understood, and supported. In addition to helping clients learn useful coping strategies, I am a trained and experienced EMDR practitioner.
I am passionate about supporting people who are experiencing grief and recovering from trauma. Everyone experiences grief differently, but my personal experience with grief and trauma informs my work and allows me to approach it from a place of empathy and understanding. My years of experience have taught me that working with a client’s natural strengths can help promote lasting healing and change. I make every effort to create a partnership in which clients feel seen, understood, and supported. In addition to helping clients learn useful coping strategies, I am a trained and experienced EMDR practitioner.
(737) 345-4457 View (737) 345-4457
David K Pellegrino
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bethel, VT 05032
I have expertise in working with affective disorders, stress management, family and marital issues. I am happy to work with individuals who would like to discuss existential or religious issues, and I work with people from all religious and spiritual backgrounds. I integrate psychodynamic psychotherapy with existential and cognitive/behavioral methods.
I have expertise in working with affective disorders, stress management, family and marital issues. I am happy to work with individuals who would like to discuss existential or religious issues, and I work with people from all religious and spiritual backgrounds. I integrate psychodynamic psychotherapy with existential and cognitive/behavioral methods.
(802) 365-1534 View (802) 365-1534
Photo of Michell Greenidge - MAG Consulting Service LLC, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MAG Consulting Service LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello there! My name is Dr. Michell Greenidge and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of psychotherapy experience. I have worked with many populations including the military. Clients I have worked with have had a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, career challenges, substance abuse, PTSD and a range of personality disorders. I have also assisted people who experienced child and adulthood sexual trauma. My counseling style is adaptive and interactive. I make it a point to adjust to the client I am serving in order to provide the best care possible.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Michell Greenidge and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of psychotherapy experience. I have worked with many populations including the military. Clients I have worked with have had a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, career challenges, substance abuse, PTSD and a range of personality disorders. I have also assisted people who experienced child and adulthood sexual trauma. My counseling style is adaptive and interactive. I make it a point to adjust to the client I am serving in order to provide the best care possible.
(802) 526-6770 View (802) 526-6770
Photo of Kimberly Lawrence Kol, PsyD, Psychologist
Kimberly Lawrence Kol
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
East Thetford, VT 05043
I am an active therapist, sensitive and authentic, with a deep respect for diversity and the individual's own path. Together we'll examine your life, alert to possible contradictions, exploring the wisdom or effectiveness of certain behaviors or beliefs. Through supportive listening, education, empowerment and expert guidance, you can become more aware of unhealthy patterns and hidden strengths, leading you to make positive changes to improve your life experience, strengthening your sense of what you want and what makes you feel good, moment to moment and long term. I do therapy with people struggling with a range of problems:
I am an active therapist, sensitive and authentic, with a deep respect for diversity and the individual's own path. Together we'll examine your life, alert to possible contradictions, exploring the wisdom or effectiveness of certain behaviors or beliefs. Through supportive listening, education, empowerment and expert guidance, you can become more aware of unhealthy patterns and hidden strengths, leading you to make positive changes to improve your life experience, strengthening your sense of what you want and what makes you feel good, moment to moment and long term. I do therapy with people struggling with a range of problems:
(802) 858-4993 View (802) 858-4993
Photo of Jessica B Londa, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica B Londa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thetford, VT 05074
The guiding philosophy of my practice is to help people understand themselves in the service of personal development within the context of a safe and reliable relationship with another person. I believe that deep and rich self-examination requires rigorous and systematic pursuit on the part of both therapist and patient as they work together. My philosophy places a high value on curiosity, creativity, purposeful aims, tolerance of discomfort, and the strength for meaningful work and satisfying relationships. These are experienced or learned through the medium of the psychotherapeutic relationship.
The guiding philosophy of my practice is to help people understand themselves in the service of personal development within the context of a safe and reliable relationship with another person. I believe that deep and rich self-examination requires rigorous and systematic pursuit on the part of both therapist and patient as they work together. My philosophy places a high value on curiosity, creativity, purposeful aims, tolerance of discomfort, and the strength for meaningful work and satisfying relationships. These are experienced or learned through the medium of the psychotherapeutic relationship.
(802) 785-2434 View (802) 785-2434
Photo of Robin B Osborne, PhD, Psychologist
Robin B Osborne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Thetford, VT 05043
Not accepting new clients
Thank you for your interest in my practice. At this time, I am no longer accepting new clients as I wind down my practice over time. I am maintaining this profile so that current/recent clients can contact me if they wish to schedule a session. If you are a current or recent client, or if you are seeking projective personality testing, you can reach me at 603-359-1339 - by text or voicemail. I will be moving my office on June 1, 2021 and will be located about a hundred yards away from my current office in the Bushway Insurance building on Rt. 5 in E. Thetford. The building is brown and sits just south of the Post Office.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. At this time, I am no longer accepting new clients as I wind down my practice over time. I am maintaining this profile so that current/recent clients can contact me if they wish to schedule a session. If you are a current or recent client, or if you are seeking projective personality testing, you can reach me at 603-359-1339 - by text or voicemail. I will be moving my office on June 1, 2021 and will be located about a hundred yards away from my current office in the Bushway Insurance building on Rt. 5 in E. Thetford. The building is brown and sits just south of the Post Office.
(802) 735-0681 View (802) 735-0681
Photo of Dr. Christopher A Randolph, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Christopher A Randolph
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand that making the decision to seek therapy is a personal and soul-searching process. At times it can be difficult to admit that we need help and when we reach out we need a compassionate and understanding psychotherapist to listen, support, and encourage us on our journey back to wellness. It has been my privilege to be invited into the lives of some of the finest people I have ever known, my clients. Helping you find your way through difficult times and confusing circumstances is my specialty and my calling.
I understand that making the decision to seek therapy is a personal and soul-searching process. At times it can be difficult to admit that we need help and when we reach out we need a compassionate and understanding psychotherapist to listen, support, and encourage us on our journey back to wellness. It has been my privilege to be invited into the lives of some of the finest people I have ever known, my clients. Helping you find your way through difficult times and confusing circumstances is my specialty and my calling.
(802) 200-2848 View (802) 200-2848
Photo of Hetty Thomae, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Hetty Thomae
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Not accepting new clients
Children are often puzzling, but when they behave in unexpected ways they are telling us something important. Students who are struggling in school need a system of support to help them succeed. When families, schools, and medical practitioners all work together, the 'picture' starts to emerge. My experience as a family therapist and a school counselor gives me insight into what they are trying to tell us and how their systems can work together to support them. My studies in School Psychology help me to assess issues and write positive behavior support plans.
Children are often puzzling, but when they behave in unexpected ways they are telling us something important. Students who are struggling in school need a system of support to help them succeed. When families, schools, and medical practitioners all work together, the 'picture' starts to emerge. My experience as a family therapist and a school counselor gives me insight into what they are trying to tell us and how their systems can work together to support them. My studies in School Psychology help me to assess issues and write positive behavior support plans.
(802) 275-4495 View (802) 275-4495
Photo of Kumari Patricia S Younce - Kumari Patricia Coach, MSW, MFA, CTA, Registered Psychotherapist
Kumari Patricia Coach
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, MFA, CTA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a life coach, counselor with a social work background. I believe in empowerment and the power of resiliency. I work with clients who are going through challenges and I lead them to transformations by listening, affirming and guiding their strengths. I believe in never giving up and the importance of community and reaching out to others. The first step in healing and creating change is walking through the door. I respect all differences and all stories and I work with individuals and I encourage stories to unfold over time. I work well with single parents and those who struggle with parenting, life transitions, stress.
I am a life coach, counselor with a social work background. I believe in empowerment and the power of resiliency. I work with clients who are going through challenges and I lead them to transformations by listening, affirming and guiding their strengths. I believe in never giving up and the importance of community and reaching out to others. The first step in healing and creating change is walking through the door. I respect all differences and all stories and I work with individuals and I encourage stories to unfold over time. I work well with single parents and those who struggle with parenting, life transitions, stress.
(802) 347-6642 View (802) 347-6642

See more therapy options for Bradford

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bradford, VT

< 10

Therapists in Bradford, VT who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
86% Grief
86% Trauma and PTSD
71% Anxiety
57% Family Conflict
57% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
57% Medicare
57% Other

How Therapists in Bradford, VT see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bradford?

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.