Therapists in Sunnyside, WA

Photo of Monica Guillen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Monica Guillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Unresolved trauma can deeply affect your daily life. I help individuals across Washington State heal from abuse, neglect, and complex trauma through compassionate, culturally responsive virtual therapy. In our sessions, we’ll explore your unique symptoms and identify root causes. My goal is to empower you with tools that foster calm, resilience, and lasting change. With over 25 years of experience and certification in EMDR, I offer trauma-informed care tailored to your needs. Services are available in English and Spanish. Visit my website to schedule your intake today!
Unresolved trauma can deeply affect your daily life. I help individuals across Washington State heal from abuse, neglect, and complex trauma through compassionate, culturally responsive virtual therapy. In our sessions, we’ll explore your unique symptoms and identify root causes. My goal is to empower you with tools that foster calm, resilience, and lasting change. With over 25 years of experience and certification in EMDR, I offer trauma-informed care tailored to your needs. Services are available in English and Spanish. Visit my website to schedule your intake today!
(206) 737-1404 View (206) 737-1404
Photo of Dr. Maria Gricelda Chacon - Sunrise Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LICSW
Sunrise Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Our Behavioral Health Practice experience enables us to offer individualized and effective outpatient and psychological services. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. Our treatment focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward.
Our Behavioral Health Practice experience enables us to offer individualized and effective outpatient and psychological services. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. Our treatment focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward.
(509) 553-5518 View (509) 553-5518
Photo of Dana Smith - Dana Smith, Smith Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, ICST, MHP
Dana Smith, Smith Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, ICST, MHP
3 Endorsed
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Not accepting new clients
Change is hard, talking about change is challenging & making change can be life altering. I believe each person is worth the hard work & is capable of the change that can allow them a new perspective & hope. I am a Child Mental Health Specialist with specialty training in Play Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am confident & competent in supporting youth with symptoms of ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression & trauma. In my 20 plus years of practice, I have worked extensively with youth experiencing loss, suicidal thoughts & self harm behaviors. I am also an International Credentialed Sandtray Therapist.
Change is hard, talking about change is challenging & making change can be life altering. I believe each person is worth the hard work & is capable of the change that can allow them a new perspective & hope. I am a Child Mental Health Specialist with specialty training in Play Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am confident & competent in supporting youth with symptoms of ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression & trauma. In my 20 plus years of practice, I have worked extensively with youth experiencing loss, suicidal thoughts & self harm behaviors. I am also an International Credentialed Sandtray Therapist.
(509) 740-3394 View (509) 740-3394
Photo of Sarah Guel - Creating our Path Counseling, LMHC, MS
Creating our Path Counseling
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunnyside, WA 98944
My passion is to serve clients committed to their self-development, and that are seeking intentional change in their life. Therapy is a sacred place that is often met with anguishing discomfort but as your therapist, I aim to provide a safe environment where vulnerability is welcomed.
My passion is to serve clients committed to their self-development, and that are seeking intentional change in their life. Therapy is a sacred place that is often met with anguishing discomfort but as your therapist, I aim to provide a safe environment where vulnerability is welcomed.
(509) 253-5857 View (509) 253-5857
Photo of Heidi Graf, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Heidi Graf
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Sunnyside, WA 98944
Life challenges all of us. At times we need support in recovering from our experiences and learning new skills to move into our future with hope and confidence. I offer counseling for children, adolescents, and adults individually or as families. I have experience working with grief and loss, trauma and abuse recovery, divorce recovery, parenting issues, depression and anxiety. I incorporate many different therapeutic techniques but draw more strongly from cognitive-behavioral therapy. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Life challenges all of us. At times we need support in recovering from our experiences and learning new skills to move into our future with hope and confidence. I offer counseling for children, adolescents, and adults individually or as families. I have experience working with grief and loss, trauma and abuse recovery, divorce recovery, parenting issues, depression and anxiety. I incorporate many different therapeutic techniques but draw more strongly from cognitive-behavioral therapy. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(509) 295-6226 View (509) 295-6226
Photo of Yeanet Ramos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Yeanet Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Online Only
Welcome and friendly Greetings! I hold a Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University which was awarded in 2008. I am licensed in the State of Washington as a Licensed Social Worker Independent Associate Clinical Provider (LSWIAC). As a private practitioner my objective is to prompt respect, dignity, and individualism. I strive to establish a trusting relationship with my clients in which they can express themselves freely.
Welcome and friendly Greetings! I hold a Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University which was awarded in 2008. I am licensed in the State of Washington as a Licensed Social Worker Independent Associate Clinical Provider (LSWIAC). As a private practitioner my objective is to prompt respect, dignity, and individualism. I strive to establish a trusting relationship with my clients in which they can express themselves freely.
(509) 383-8562 View (509) 383-8562
Photo of Nicole M Browning - Beach Side Counseling, PLLC, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Beach Side Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! For years I wondered why I struggled with focusing, poor memory, high energy, listening, deadlines, or remembering to eat. It was only after I was diagnosed with ADHD before I realized "hey, I am not making this up," or "I am not dumb- I learn differently." Attempts to meet the expectations of a neurotypical society creates a harmful cycle where we feel it is relentless and never ending. Past life experiences can and still haunt us, as society continues to "inform" us of what "normal" looks like. Trying to mask who we are daily is exhausting and painful, and only breeds more pain and internal hurt.
Accepting New Clients! For years I wondered why I struggled with focusing, poor memory, high energy, listening, deadlines, or remembering to eat. It was only after I was diagnosed with ADHD before I realized "hey, I am not making this up," or "I am not dumb- I learn differently." Attempts to meet the expectations of a neurotypical society creates a harmful cycle where we feel it is relentless and never ending. Past life experiences can and still haunt us, as society continues to "inform" us of what "normal" looks like. Trying to mask who we are daily is exhausting and painful, and only breeds more pain and internal hurt.
(206) 647-7426 View (206) 647-7426
Photo of Derrick Conley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Derrick Conley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Emotions are the backbone that makes us who we are. I am here to help you work through these emotions rather than shutting them away and letting them ultimately consume you. I have over thirteen years of experience in the community mental health system with several different approaches including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am dedicated to serving individuals of all ages achieve their health goals. I would love to walk beside you in your journey to healing as you gain mastery of your reality.
Emotions are the backbone that makes us who we are. I am here to help you work through these emotions rather than shutting them away and letting them ultimately consume you. I have over thirteen years of experience in the community mental health system with several different approaches including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am dedicated to serving individuals of all ages achieve their health goals. I would love to walk beside you in your journey to healing as you gain mastery of your reality.
(509) 260-2904 View (509) 260-2904
Photo of Shaunna Harding, Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Shaunna Harding
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Serves Area
My guess is that you are struggling with how to cope with the life that’s around you. Your relationships likely have reoccurring disagreements. You’re stuck in a pattern that you don’t understand or at least don’t know how to change. You may feel overwhelmed, tired, angry, sad. My second guess is you’d like things to change and you’re ready to find someone who can help you do that. You probably want to feel joy, peace, and that you can be fully yourself without fear of what anyone else thinks.
My guess is that you are struggling with how to cope with the life that’s around you. Your relationships likely have reoccurring disagreements. You’re stuck in a pattern that you don’t understand or at least don’t know how to change. You may feel overwhelmed, tired, angry, sad. My second guess is you’d like things to change and you’re ready to find someone who can help you do that. You probably want to feel joy, peace, and that you can be fully yourself without fear of what anyone else thinks.
(509) 794-3699 View (509) 794-3699
Photo of Kishore S.h.m. Varada - Reliance Health Systems, PA-C
Reliance Health Systems
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Psychiatric Physican Assistant who has been practicing for 17 years. I work with patients 12 and older at Reliance Health Systems, where I offer Medication Management, ADHD Evaluations, and Advanced Brain Stimulation Services.
I am Psychiatric Physican Assistant who has been practicing for 17 years. I work with patients 12 and older at Reliance Health Systems, where I offer Medication Management, ADHD Evaluations, and Advanced Brain Stimulation Services.
(509) 204-8650 View (509) 204-8650
Photo of Katherine D Soto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIC MSW
Katherine D Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIC MSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an authentic person, and I believe that this allows me to connect with people and help them navigate and overcome challenges that impact their mental, emotional, and social well-being. I engage clients with an eclectic approach and match what will help them the most. I use various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment (ACT), compassion-focused therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, strength-based therapy, and trauma therapy.
I am an authentic person, and I believe that this allows me to connect with people and help them navigate and overcome challenges that impact their mental, emotional, and social well-being. I engage clients with an eclectic approach and match what will help them the most. I use various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment (ACT), compassion-focused therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, strength-based therapy, and trauma therapy.
(509) 257-4544 View (509) 257-4544
Photo of Diana Tellez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Diana Tellez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Serves Area
Life can often feel stressful, overwhelming, and even hopeless at times. Perhaps you are going through a difficult life transition. If so, it would be an honor to be able to work alongside with you on this. I believe that having a safe and nonjudgmental space to process these stressors can be a truly transformative experience. My goal is to form a therapeutic alliance that could help you develop healthy coping mechanisms that could help you overcome these stressors as well as help you reduce barriers and find tools to enjoy a happier and healthier life.
Life can often feel stressful, overwhelming, and even hopeless at times. Perhaps you are going through a difficult life transition. If so, it would be an honor to be able to work alongside with you on this. I believe that having a safe and nonjudgmental space to process these stressors can be a truly transformative experience. My goal is to form a therapeutic alliance that could help you develop healthy coping mechanisms that could help you overcome these stressors as well as help you reduce barriers and find tools to enjoy a happier and healthier life.
(509) 299-8049 View (509) 299-8049
Photo of Kimberly Husch - Eunoia Wellness with Kimberly Husch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Eunoia Wellness with Kimberly Husch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have the challenges in life become overwhelming? Are you looking for helpful support for making positive changes? Do you need someone who will listen and allow you to process your own thoughts and feelings without judgement? Begin a healing journey with me through counseling. Many difficulties are effectively addressed with counseling, including depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, communication skills, decision making, and relationships with others. I will tailor my approach to help you meet your goals, in your own time, on your terms, with a caring, non-judgmental, and practical approach, in a safe and confidential environment.
Have the challenges in life become overwhelming? Are you looking for helpful support for making positive changes? Do you need someone who will listen and allow you to process your own thoughts and feelings without judgement? Begin a healing journey with me through counseling. Many difficulties are effectively addressed with counseling, including depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, communication skills, decision making, and relationships with others. I will tailor my approach to help you meet your goals, in your own time, on your terms, with a caring, non-judgmental, and practical approach, in a safe and confidential environment.
(509) 397-7633 View (509) 397-7633
Photo of Gary William Brouwer - Mid Valley Counseling, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Mid Valley Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
08-07-2020. Currently not accepting new Clients. My desire is to provide a safe space for individuals and/or families to collaboratively address a full range of mental health Issues. I am an EMDR therapist and approach mental health with this model of care. EMDR is an effective evidenced based trauma therapy that is not limited to PTSD. Trauma is any negative unexpected experience that can leave a person feeling confused, overwhelmed, powerless and stuck. This is a broad definition that can include a wide range of experiences that are unique to each person. Symptoms are often the consequence of unprocessed memories.
08-07-2020. Currently not accepting new Clients. My desire is to provide a safe space for individuals and/or families to collaboratively address a full range of mental health Issues. I am an EMDR therapist and approach mental health with this model of care. EMDR is an effective evidenced based trauma therapy that is not limited to PTSD. Trauma is any negative unexpected experience that can leave a person feeling confused, overwhelmed, powerless and stuck. This is a broad definition that can include a wide range of experiences that are unique to each person. Symptoms are often the consequence of unprocessed memories.
(509) 203-4577 View (509) 203-4577

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Natalie Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Natalie Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You might be feeling overwhelmed by constant self-pressure, self-doubt, or the sense that you're “never enough”—even though others see you as capable and strong. I support individuals who are ready to understand themselves on a deeper level, especially those navigating cycles of shame, people-pleasing, or harsh inner criticism. Through a warm and curious approach, I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) to help you reconnect with your inner resilience and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. For couples, I offer a collaborative space to rebuild emotional connection and deepen
You might be feeling overwhelmed by constant self-pressure, self-doubt, or the sense that you're “never enough”—even though others see you as capable and strong. I support individuals who are ready to understand themselves on a deeper level, especially those navigating cycles of shame, people-pleasing, or harsh inner criticism. Through a warm and curious approach, I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) to help you reconnect with your inner resilience and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. For couples, I offer a collaborative space to rebuild emotional connection and deepen
(509) 316-2930 View (509) 316-2930
Zoe Baily
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
West Richland, WA 99353
Hi, I'm interested in letting you thrive! Overcome the challenges you face using DBT and other methods. I work with kids, teens, and adults with any challenges. Looking forward to meeting you!
Hi, I'm interested in letting you thrive! Overcome the challenges you face using DBT and other methods. I work with kids, teens, and adults with any challenges. Looking forward to meeting you!
(509) 732-9074 View (509) 732-9074
Photo of Rusty Whitehall, Counselor, LMHC
Rusty Whitehall
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma can quietly disrupt your relationships, daily rhythm, and sense of self. You may find yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you—overthinking, withdrawing, or feeling like you're always falling short. I understand that you're balancing a lot, and finding time for therapy shouldn't add to your stress. That's why I offer sessions Monday through Friday, day or night, and on Saturdays until noon, working around your schedule—not mine. In therapy, we’ll work to understand what’s behind your feelings and help you feel more steady, capable, and connected to your life.
Depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma can quietly disrupt your relationships, daily rhythm, and sense of self. You may find yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you—overthinking, withdrawing, or feeling like you're always falling short. I understand that you're balancing a lot, and finding time for therapy shouldn't add to your stress. That's why I offer sessions Monday through Friday, day or night, and on Saturdays until noon, working around your schedule—not mine. In therapy, we’ll work to understand what’s behind your feelings and help you feel more steady, capable, and connected to your life.
(360) 615-2852 View (360) 615-2852
Photo of Jade L Myers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Jade L Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
2 Endorsed
Zillah, WA 98953
Not accepting new clients
Imagine this: you’re navigating a significant life transition—whether you’re preparing for marriage, expecting a baby, facing challenges in building your family or adjusting to a new stage of parenthood. The excitement is real, but so is the uncertainty. Maybe you’re struggling to balance your own needs with those of your family. Perhaps you’re dealing with neurodiversity or postpartum anxiety, depression, or rage. What you really want is to feel grounded and confident in the midst of all these changes. You want to strengthen your foundation as life throws challenges your way, knowing you have the tools and support to handle them.
Imagine this: you’re navigating a significant life transition—whether you’re preparing for marriage, expecting a baby, facing challenges in building your family or adjusting to a new stage of parenthood. The excitement is real, but so is the uncertainty. Maybe you’re struggling to balance your own needs with those of your family. Perhaps you’re dealing with neurodiversity or postpartum anxiety, depression, or rage. What you really want is to feel grounded and confident in the midst of all these changes. You want to strengthen your foundation as life throws challenges your way, knowing you have the tools and support to handle them.
(509) 285-9611 View (509) 285-9611
Photo of Dustin J Jindra, Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS, DCR, NCC
Dustin J Jindra
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS, DCR, NCC
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or a reduction in concentration/focus?Perhaps communication breakdown? It's not a matter of "if", but "when" adversity will come to test your commitment to growth, and I am here to offer a skill-based action-oriented approach with measurable results (not your typical talk therapy). Ready for change- let's get started!
Experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or a reduction in concentration/focus?Perhaps communication breakdown? It's not a matter of "if", but "when" adversity will come to test your commitment to growth, and I am here to offer a skill-based action-oriented approach with measurable results (not your typical talk therapy). Ready for change- let's get started!
(509) 486-7993 View (509) 486-7993
Photo of Magalie Roman-Estrada, Counselor, LMHCA
Magalie Roman-Estrada
Counselor, LMHCA
Granger, WA 98932
In my practice, I prioritize developing strong rapport with each client. I believe that rapport is the foundation of effective therapy—it allows clients to feel heard, understood, and supported without fear of criticism or rejection. By cultivating this sense of trust, clients are empowered to explore their feelings, challenges, and goals with honesty, ultimately leading to more meaningful and lasting change.
In my practice, I prioritize developing strong rapport with each client. I believe that rapport is the foundation of effective therapy—it allows clients to feel heard, understood, and supported without fear of criticism or rejection. By cultivating this sense of trust, clients are empowered to explore their feelings, challenges, and goals with honesty, ultimately leading to more meaningful and lasting change.
(509) 478-1656 x9322 View (509) 478-1656 x9322

See more therapy options for Sunnyside

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Sunnyside, WA

10+

Average cost per session

$155

Therapists in Sunnyside, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
86% Anxiety
71% Trauma and PTSD
64% Self Esteem
64% Stress
57% Grief
57% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Premera Blue Cross
85% Regence
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Sunnyside, WA see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Sunnyside?

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.