Therapists in Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA

Photo of Dr. Carmen D Lasby - New Leaf Neuro Care, Psychologist, PsyD
New Leaf Neuro Care
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or chronically stuck—even after trying therapy or other treatments? I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and chronic stress utilizing Low Energy Neurofeedback (LENS), a gentle, non-invasive brain-based approach that supports deep and lasting change. LENS works by helping the brain “reset” and regulate itself more efficiently. Most clients notice improved emotional balance, clarity, sleep, and resilience—often within just a few sessions. It’s especially helpful when talk therapy alone hasn’t been enough.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or chronically stuck—even after trying therapy or other treatments? I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and chronic stress utilizing Low Energy Neurofeedback (LENS), a gentle, non-invasive brain-based approach that supports deep and lasting change. LENS works by helping the brain “reset” and regulate itself more efficiently. Most clients notice improved emotional balance, clarity, sleep, and resilience—often within just a few sessions. It’s especially helpful when talk therapy alone hasn’t been enough.
(253) 331-2597 View (253) 331-2597
Photo of Lance Watson, Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Lance Watson
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
2 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Whether as an individual or couple, I care about implementing the things you haven’t yet tried, while amplifying strengths that already work. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness. You will find my approach to counseling is relational as I help you discover ways to practically apply what happens session to your day to day life.
Whether as an individual or couple, I care about implementing the things you haven’t yet tried, while amplifying strengths that already work. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness. You will find my approach to counseling is relational as I help you discover ways to practically apply what happens session to your day to day life.
(206) 752-5729 View (206) 752-5729
Photo of Alexandra Brooke Mathewes, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCPC
Alexandra Brooke Mathewes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Many of my clients are high performing professionals who appear outwardly successful but feel internally overwhelmed, disconnected, or facing unexpected life challenges such as cancer and other illness. They want clarity, support, and skills to move toward a life that feels more grounded, manageable and connected to meaning and purpose. Some of my specific specialties with individuals and couples include living with high functioning anxiety, perfectionism & depression, coping with trauma, substance use, disordered eating, and the emotional toll of cancer and other chronic illnesses. I also run tailored grief support groups.
Many of my clients are high performing professionals who appear outwardly successful but feel internally overwhelmed, disconnected, or facing unexpected life challenges such as cancer and other illness. They want clarity, support, and skills to move toward a life that feels more grounded, manageable and connected to meaning and purpose. Some of my specific specialties with individuals and couples include living with high functioning anxiety, perfectionism & depression, coping with trauma, substance use, disordered eating, and the emotional toll of cancer and other chronic illnesses. I also run tailored grief support groups.
(206) 922-4354 View (206) 922-4354
Photo of Jaclyn Watson, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Jaclyn Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
5 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I am so glad you have decided to embark on this journey to live a fuller, happier, and purpose-filled life. I love working alongside clients to maximize their potential and help them find hope and healing for the many difficulties that come with life. My counseling approach integrates research supported techniques with your personal value system. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness.
I am so glad you have decided to embark on this journey to live a fuller, happier, and purpose-filled life. I love working alongside clients to maximize their potential and help them find hope and healing for the many difficulties that come with life. My counseling approach integrates research supported techniques with your personal value system. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness.
(253) 201-4069 View (253) 201-4069
Photo of Deena Eastern, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Deena Eastern
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Thank you for visiting the referral website and researching this important decision. You have accomplished the difficult first step to creating change in your life. As a therapist I draw from the best evidence based practices to provide a holistic treatment approach for my clients. My primary specialty is working with adolescents, teens and young adults, and parents. I aspire to create therapeutic relationships founded in connection, understanding, acceptance and compassion. I would love to sit down with you, or your child and listen to whatever struggle you are facing and work collaboratively with you to reach a solution.
Thank you for visiting the referral website and researching this important decision. You have accomplished the difficult first step to creating change in your life. As a therapist I draw from the best evidence based practices to provide a holistic treatment approach for my clients. My primary specialty is working with adolescents, teens and young adults, and parents. I aspire to create therapeutic relationships founded in connection, understanding, acceptance and compassion. I would love to sit down with you, or your child and listen to whatever struggle you are facing and work collaboratively with you to reach a solution.
(206) 339-3389 View (206) 339-3389
Photo of Jarim Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Jarim Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I provide individual psychotherapy to adults 25+, including adults 65+.
I provide individual psychotherapy to adults 25+, including adults 65+.
(425) 534-7034 View (425) 534-7034
Photo of Karla Obernesser, Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Karla Obernesser
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Hi - I am so glad you are here, reading my profile. You are researching ways to process the stuff of life. Your life. It would be my honor to be your companion on the journey of discovering what would be your best life. Often what brings people to therapy is a problem they have been coping with for a long time and they want to bring new ideas to that issue or problem. Uncomfortable emotions like anxiety, anger and sadness usually get our attention to look deeper into the issues of our lives. Processing these issues in therapy can ease the discomfort and lead to a more fulfilled life as you discover what is most important to you.
Hi - I am so glad you are here, reading my profile. You are researching ways to process the stuff of life. Your life. It would be my honor to be your companion on the journey of discovering what would be your best life. Often what brings people to therapy is a problem they have been coping with for a long time and they want to bring new ideas to that issue or problem. Uncomfortable emotions like anxiety, anger and sadness usually get our attention to look deeper into the issues of our lives. Processing these issues in therapy can ease the discomfort and lead to a more fulfilled life as you discover what is most important to you.
(425) 358-4740 View (425) 358-4740
Photo of Steve Best, Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Steve Best
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I have openings for both in-person and tele-therapy (video or phone sessions) and would be honored to support you during whatever challenges you or your loved ones may be facing. My principle areas of expertise are working with couples, children, teens, and adults experiencing depression and anxiety as a result of stresses in their lives caused by relationship difficulties, family conflict, work/career issues, school-related problems, and unresolved issues from childhood or other trauma. I have extensive experience working with grief and loss issues due to death, injury, illness or disability. I am myself a cancer survivor.
I have openings for both in-person and tele-therapy (video or phone sessions) and would be honored to support you during whatever challenges you or your loved ones may be facing. My principle areas of expertise are working with couples, children, teens, and adults experiencing depression and anxiety as a result of stresses in their lives caused by relationship difficulties, family conflict, work/career issues, school-related problems, and unresolved issues from childhood or other trauma. I have extensive experience working with grief and loss issues due to death, injury, illness or disability. I am myself a cancer survivor.
(425) 615-6891 x425451 View (425) 615-6891 x425451
Photo of Benjamin Dobmeier, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Benjamin Dobmeier
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
2 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Washington University in St. Louis and my Master’s degree in Applied Child and Adolescent Psychology from the University of Washington. I completed my 12-month clinical internship at Sound Mental Health in Northgate. I specialize in working with anxiety, OCD, depression, traumatic stress, behavioral problems, parent training, and ADHD, and I use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, ERP and BPT. I enjoy working with clients aged six through young adulthood and strive to partner with and include the entire family throughout the course of treatment.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Washington University in St. Louis and my Master’s degree in Applied Child and Adolescent Psychology from the University of Washington. I completed my 12-month clinical internship at Sound Mental Health in Northgate. I specialize in working with anxiety, OCD, depression, traumatic stress, behavioral problems, parent training, and ADHD, and I use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, ERP and BPT. I enjoy working with clients aged six through young adulthood and strive to partner with and include the entire family throughout the course of treatment.
(425) 358-9382 View (425) 358-9382
Photo of Phyllis Ann Eicher Dickenson, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, EMDR
Phyllis Ann Eicher Dickenson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, EMDR
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I am passionate about helping clients find the awareness, insight, and resilience to live a joyful, meaningful, and fulfilling life. I respect that you are the expert of your life experience and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and challenging environment for clients to increase their awareness, identify patterns, beliefs, and make changes. I work with teens, adults, and couples and enjoy working with diverse cultures, the LGBTQ+ community and first responders. My approach to therapy is holistic and strengths-based and comes from a systems perspective.
I am passionate about helping clients find the awareness, insight, and resilience to live a joyful, meaningful, and fulfilling life. I respect that you are the expert of your life experience and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and challenging environment for clients to increase their awareness, identify patterns, beliefs, and make changes. I work with teens, adults, and couples and enjoy working with diverse cultures, the LGBTQ+ community and first responders. My approach to therapy is holistic and strengths-based and comes from a systems perspective.
(425) 405-6213 View (425) 405-6213
Photo of Richard Wemhoff - Emmaus Counseling Center, Psychologist, PhD, LICSW, LMHC, LMFT, CSAT
Emmaus Counseling Center
Psychologist, PhD, LICSW, LMHC, LMFT, CSAT
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Our psychologists and therapists are among the most respected in the area and have been selected because of their expertise in a variety of presenting issues and vast experience of therapeutic approaches. And because each of our clients are unique, our therapists offer an exciting and varied approach for each of their clients struggling with issues preventing them from living their best life.
Our psychologists and therapists are among the most respected in the area and have been selected because of their expertise in a variety of presenting issues and vast experience of therapeutic approaches. And because each of our clients are unique, our therapists offer an exciting and varied approach for each of their clients struggling with issues preventing them from living their best life.
(425) 842-2671 View (425) 842-2671
Photo of Megan Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Megan Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Empowered Counseling for Mid-Life Women. On the outside, it looks like you have it all. You feel like you really shouldn’t have anything to complain about, right? You are there for everyone in your life who needs you…your partner, kids, parents, friends, charities, volunteer boards. Everyone can depend on you. Yet, you feel like you are not handling anything well and you don’t know why. You just don't feel like yourself anymore. You don’t know what the next chapter of your life looks like…and this one is almost over. What will you do? Who will you be?
Empowered Counseling for Mid-Life Women. On the outside, it looks like you have it all. You feel like you really shouldn’t have anything to complain about, right? You are there for everyone in your life who needs you…your partner, kids, parents, friends, charities, volunteer boards. Everyone can depend on you. Yet, you feel like you are not handling anything well and you don’t know why. You just don't feel like yourself anymore. You don’t know what the next chapter of your life looks like…and this one is almost over. What will you do? Who will you be?
(425) 584-2556 View (425) 584-2556
Photo of Ferda Celen, Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Ferda Celen
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Life feels like constant struggle, your worries keep you awake at night. Yet, you get up, put your best face on, and pretend that everything is OK. You wanted to get help but you hesitated. It is hard to share what you are going through. You have been suffering; your relationships are suffering and deep down you know that something needs to change. If any of these applies to you, I can help. Sometimes all it takes finding a safe place and someone who are willing to listen without judgement. I can provide you a safe place and help you find your strength and build skills for a better life.
Life feels like constant struggle, your worries keep you awake at night. Yet, you get up, put your best face on, and pretend that everything is OK. You wanted to get help but you hesitated. It is hard to share what you are going through. You have been suffering; your relationships are suffering and deep down you know that something needs to change. If any of these applies to you, I can help. Sometimes all it takes finding a safe place and someone who are willing to listen without judgement. I can provide you a safe place and help you find your strength and build skills for a better life.
(425) 728-7595 View (425) 728-7595
Photo of Whitney Iverson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Whitney Iverson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
​I believe every person is unique and holds the capacity to find resilience and strength on the journey towards recovery. My clinical interests include working with youth, families, and young adults experiencing the challenges of emotion dysregulation, mood and anxiety disorders, and eating disorders. I enjoy working with individuals throughout the lifespan, specifically school aged children, adolescents, young adults, and families.
​I believe every person is unique and holds the capacity to find resilience and strength on the journey towards recovery. My clinical interests include working with youth, families, and young adults experiencing the challenges of emotion dysregulation, mood and anxiety disorders, and eating disorders. I enjoy working with individuals throughout the lifespan, specifically school aged children, adolescents, young adults, and families.
(425) 699-3844 View (425) 699-3844
Photo of Jason Peruchini, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jason Peruchini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I’m Jason Peruchini, a licensed therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and panic. Over the past 10 years I’ve worked in both private and clinic settings to help adults better manage fear and uncertainty. I’m also a member of the International OCD Foundation and the Anxiety & Depression Association of America.
I’m Jason Peruchini, a licensed therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and panic. Over the past 10 years I’ve worked in both private and clinic settings to help adults better manage fear and uncertainty. I’m also a member of the International OCD Foundation and the Anxiety & Depression Association of America.
(425) 585-2249 View (425) 585-2249
Photo of Kate Hannah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kate Hannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Reaching out for support can be hard to do, congratulations on taking the first step. My focus as a therapist is to provide effective treatment, support the goals you want to work on, and help you live the life that you want. I enjoy working with adults and older teens who are excited to collaborate and work as a team. I come from strengths based approach that focuses on providing quality treatment that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my cats, running, playing soccer, and watching horror movies.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Reaching out for support can be hard to do, congratulations on taking the first step. My focus as a therapist is to provide effective treatment, support the goals you want to work on, and help you live the life that you want. I enjoy working with adults and older teens who are excited to collaborate and work as a team. I come from strengths based approach that focuses on providing quality treatment that is tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my cats, running, playing soccer, and watching horror movies.
(425) 696-9389 View (425) 696-9389
Photo of Andrea Lynn Shirey - Sigh Of Relief Counseling, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Sigh Of Relief Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
My practice supports children, teens, and adults through a blend of developmentally attuned and evidence‑based approaches. With young children, I use play therapy to help them express emotions, build coping skills, and process experiences in a way that feels natural and safe. For older children, adolescents, and adults, I integrate CBT, DBT, and trauma‑informed practices to address challenges such as anxiety, emotional regulation, stress, and the impact of difficult life events.
My practice supports children, teens, and adults through a blend of developmentally attuned and evidence‑based approaches. With young children, I use play therapy to help them express emotions, build coping skills, and process experiences in a way that feels natural and safe. For older children, adolescents, and adults, I integrate CBT, DBT, and trauma‑informed practices to address challenges such as anxiety, emotional regulation, stress, and the impact of difficult life events.
(509) 236-8603 View (509) 236-8603
Photo of Brian L Imber, Psychologist, PhD, MA, MBA, BCN, BCB
Brian L Imber
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MBA, BCN, BCB
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Dr. Imber's approach to your mental health concerns is with the utmost of individualized care throughout the entire therapeutic relationship. Dr. Imber supports a person-centered holistic approach to behavioral healthcare. He applies an integrated model of psychotherapy that individualizes your mental healthcare to your specific needs. He specializes in a wide range of issues from ADHD, anxiety, mood, trauma, stress, life changes, obsessions and compulsions, attachment, partner, work/career, family, and aging. Dr. Imber applies evidence-based therapies and well validated psychological assessments.
Dr. Imber's approach to your mental health concerns is with the utmost of individualized care throughout the entire therapeutic relationship. Dr. Imber supports a person-centered holistic approach to behavioral healthcare. He applies an integrated model of psychotherapy that individualizes your mental healthcare to your specific needs. He specializes in a wide range of issues from ADHD, anxiety, mood, trauma, stress, life changes, obsessions and compulsions, attachment, partner, work/career, family, and aging. Dr. Imber applies evidence-based therapies and well validated psychological assessments.
(206) 577-7994 View (206) 577-7994
Photo of Akiko Sakai-Kinney, Counselor, MA, MM, LMHC
Akiko Sakai-Kinney
Counselor, MA, MM, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
Your life must be lived by you alone, and you need to have self knowledge to pursue that authenticity. You are both your conscious self and the unconscious underneath it. You need to become aware how the unconscious is affecting the conscious part of your life so that you don't keep repeating the same painful experiences. I will guide and accompany you to find and explore the undiscovered self through bringing harmony between the conscious and unconscious parts of you.
Your life must be lived by you alone, and you need to have self knowledge to pursue that authenticity. You are both your conscious self and the unconscious underneath it. You need to become aware how the unconscious is affecting the conscious part of your life so that you don't keep repeating the same painful experiences. I will guide and accompany you to find and explore the undiscovered self through bringing harmony between the conscious and unconscious parts of you.
(206) 855-3670 View (206) 855-3670
Photo of Matthew McMillon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Matthew McMillon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
2 Endorsed
Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA 98004
I am an individual, couples, and family therapist working in the Seattle area at Sound Refuge Therapy. My aim is to provide a safe and grounding space for growing, exploring, and healing in your relationships and within yourself. I use evidenced based and trauma informed care that honors your identity and experiences. As we work together, I hope to encourage, challenge, and provide the tools for your own journey of change.
I am an individual, couples, and family therapist working in the Seattle area at Sound Refuge Therapy. My aim is to provide a safe and grounding space for growing, exploring, and healing in your relationships and within yourself. I use evidenced based and trauma informed care that honors your identity and experiences. As we work together, I hope to encourage, challenge, and provide the tools for your own journey of change.
(425) 243-0575 View (425) 243-0575

See more therapy options for Hidden Valley, Bellevue

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA

70+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
97% Social Anxiety
97% Health Anxiety
97% Driving Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
75% Relationship Anxiety

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Premera Blue Cross
55% BlueCross and BlueShield
55% Regence

How Therapists in Hidden Valley, Bellevue, WA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hidden Valley?

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.