Therapists in Palmyra, WI

Photo of Laura Mathis, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Laura Mathis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Palmyra, WI 53156
Note: Accepting new short-term (ending 12/31/26) clients. I can also assist while you are on a waiting list for another therapist. Entering therapy can be one of the most important things that you can do for yourself. I also realize for some people, it is the scariest thing they could do. My promise to you is that I will provide you a nonjudgmental place to sort out whatever you bring to our space and time. As an Adlerian therapist, I believe therapy is a collaborative process; it is two people working together to solve a problem. Therapy can be hard work, but it's life-changing work that lasts a lifetime.
Note: Accepting new short-term (ending 12/31/26) clients. I can also assist while you are on a waiting list for another therapist. Entering therapy can be one of the most important things that you can do for yourself. I also realize for some people, it is the scariest thing they could do. My promise to you is that I will provide you a nonjudgmental place to sort out whatever you bring to our space and time. As an Adlerian therapist, I believe therapy is a collaborative process; it is two people working together to solve a problem. Therapy can be hard work, but it's life-changing work that lasts a lifetime.
(920) 547-4770 View (920) 547-4770
Photo of Darlene Meiners, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Darlene Meiners
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am an experienced clinician who finds deep meaning and reward in my work with individuals and families. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting children, adults, and families across a variety of settings, helping them navigate challenges and build resilience. As an older clinician, I bring both professional expertise and life experience into my practice, allowing me to connect with clients in a thoughtful, compassionate, and grounded way. I consider it an honor to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life.
I am an experienced clinician who finds deep meaning and reward in my work with individuals and families. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting children, adults, and families across a variety of settings, helping them navigate challenges and build resilience. As an older clinician, I bring both professional expertise and life experience into my practice, allowing me to connect with clients in a thoughtful, compassionate, and grounded way. I consider it an honor to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life.
(262) 624-0755 View (262) 624-0755

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leah Featherstone - Professional Services Group, Psychologist, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Professional Services Group
Psychologist, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Waukesha, WI 53188
Professional Services Group (PSG) provides individual, group, family, and couples therapy in Kenosha, Racine, West Allis, West Bend, Fort Atkinson, Waukesha, and Janesville for individuals struggling with a variety of mental health and substance abuse issues. We have therapists who work with clients as young as 4 years old, as well as adolescents, and adults. We are a trauma-informed practice that believes that it is our job to help clients reach their goals, on their terms. We also offer holistic services, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Reiki, Sound Healing, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and Neurobiofeedback.
Professional Services Group (PSG) provides individual, group, family, and couples therapy in Kenosha, Racine, West Allis, West Bend, Fort Atkinson, Waukesha, and Janesville for individuals struggling with a variety of mental health and substance abuse issues. We have therapists who work with clients as young as 4 years old, as well as adolescents, and adults. We are a trauma-informed practice that believes that it is our job to help clients reach their goals, on their terms. We also offer holistic services, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Reiki, Sound Healing, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and Neurobiofeedback.
(262) 419-3694 View (262) 419-3694
Photo of Jessica Lange, Counselor, MA, LPC
Jessica Lange
Counselor, MA, LPC
Brookfield, WI 53005
My specialty is working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide a relaxed environment and friendly approach to therapy. I work to help my clients feel at ease and engaged during therapy sessions by utilizing play therapy, art, games, and imagination to help my younger clients communicate their feelings and practice new coping skills.
My specialty is working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide a relaxed environment and friendly approach to therapy. I work to help my clients feel at ease and engaged during therapy sessions by utilizing play therapy, art, games, and imagination to help my younger clients communicate their feelings and practice new coping skills.
(262) 684-2295 View (262) 684-2295
Photo of Lexi Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TIC
Lexi Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TIC
Waukesha, WI 53188
Are you or your teen feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or life transitions? Are challenges at home, school, work, or in your relationships starting to feel difficult to manage on your own? You’re not alone. Reaching out for support can feel intimidating, but it’s also a powerful first step toward feeling better. I work with pre-teens, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, life stressors, transitions, and unresolved past trauma. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences. I believe therapy works best when you feel heard, understood, and supported.
Are you or your teen feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or life transitions? Are challenges at home, school, work, or in your relationships starting to feel difficult to manage on your own? You’re not alone. Reaching out for support can feel intimidating, but it’s also a powerful first step toward feeling better. I work with pre-teens, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, life stressors, transitions, and unresolved past trauma. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences. I believe therapy works best when you feel heard, understood, and supported.
(262) 394-8089 View (262) 394-8089
Photo of Lisa Miles, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Lisa Miles
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
4 Endorsed
Pewaukee, WI 53072
We all experience challenges in life where we need someone to listen, understand, and support us. I am here to provide you with that support. Together, we'll explore ways to navigate through life's challenges successfully. I enjoy working with adults, providing individual, couples, family, and group counseling.
We all experience challenges in life where we need someone to listen, understand, and support us. I am here to provide you with that support. Together, we'll explore ways to navigate through life's challenges successfully. I enjoy working with adults, providing individual, couples, family, and group counseling.
(262) 228-4890 View (262) 228-4890
Photo of Mary Kemmeter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Kemmeter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, stress depression, grief and relationship problems. I work collaboratively with patients to come up with creative and effective ways to address their symptoms and identify their strengths, so they may live a more fulfilled life.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, stress depression, grief and relationship problems. I work collaboratively with patients to come up with creative and effective ways to address their symptoms and identify their strengths, so they may live a more fulfilled life.
(414) 246-9139 View (414) 246-9139
Photo of Kayla E Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSM, SAC
Kayla E Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSM, SAC
Brookfield, WI 53005
Waitlist for new clients
Heavenly Oasis Christian Counseling Center (HOCCC) passionately focuses on instilling hope and life balance through the intergration of biblical principles and research-based therapeutic interventions. Services rendered in a peaceful oasis dedicated to uplifting Jesus Christ's core commandment, LOVE. I receive genuine pleasure from seeing people transformed and empowered by the renewing of their minds and the cultivation of their God-given strengths, talents and gifts. With over 20 years of experience advocating, assisting and partnering with families "I promise to serve my community with excellence”.
Heavenly Oasis Christian Counseling Center (HOCCC) passionately focuses on instilling hope and life balance through the intergration of biblical principles and research-based therapeutic interventions. Services rendered in a peaceful oasis dedicated to uplifting Jesus Christ's core commandment, LOVE. I receive genuine pleasure from seeing people transformed and empowered by the renewing of their minds and the cultivation of their God-given strengths, talents and gifts. With over 20 years of experience advocating, assisting and partnering with families "I promise to serve my community with excellence”.
(414) 501-7492 View (414) 501-7492
Photo of Julia Shaughnessy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Julia Shaughnessy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Waukesha, WI 53186
Julia Shaughnessy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Julia offers a flexible approach that can be tailored to almost any client. As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), her experience is in working with complex family and couples issues including infidelity, behavioral issues, and family dysfunction of all types. Julia has training in several evidence-based modalities which she can integrate into a personalized treatment. She has a kind but forthright style that draws from solution-focused therapy.
Julia Shaughnessy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Julia offers a flexible approach that can be tailored to almost any client. As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), her experience is in working with complex family and couples issues including infidelity, behavioral issues, and family dysfunction of all types. Julia has training in several evidence-based modalities which she can integrate into a personalized treatment. She has a kind but forthright style that draws from solution-focused therapy.
(262) 537-5208 View (262) 537-5208
Photo of Shannon L Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC, SAP, ICS
Shannon L Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC, SAP, ICS
Serves Area
Are you depressed, easily angered, or stressed out? My name is Shannon Smith with SLS Counseling Group, LLC, specializing in providing high quality behavioral and mental health services. I am a licensed Psychotherapist, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor and Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), and I am committed to building self-esteem, improving decision making, thought process and developing appropriate coping skills to adults in the community. I focus on individual therapy, which ranges from academic underachievement to substance abuse. Each individual has a trait to be resilient and the inherent capability of achieving goals.
Are you depressed, easily angered, or stressed out? My name is Shannon Smith with SLS Counseling Group, LLC, specializing in providing high quality behavioral and mental health services. I am a licensed Psychotherapist, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor and Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), and I am committed to building self-esteem, improving decision making, thought process and developing appropriate coping skills to adults in the community. I focus on individual therapy, which ranges from academic underachievement to substance abuse. Each individual has a trait to be resilient and the inherent capability of achieving goals.
(414) 376-9024 View (414) 376-9024
Photo of LaKeesha Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
LaKeesha Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Welcome to REAL Counseling! My approach to therapy is REAL - Realistic, Empowering, Authentic and Learning I specialize in supporting adult women, teens, adolescents, and young children (ages 3 and up) who are navigating emotional and behavioral challenges focusing on anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I create a safe and nurturing space where individuals can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. My goal is to empower my clients with the tools and confidence they need to foster emotional well-being and lead fulfilling lives.
Welcome to REAL Counseling! My approach to therapy is REAL - Realistic, Empowering, Authentic and Learning I specialize in supporting adult women, teens, adolescents, and young children (ages 3 and up) who are navigating emotional and behavioral challenges focusing on anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I create a safe and nurturing space where individuals can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. My goal is to empower my clients with the tools and confidence they need to foster emotional well-being and lead fulfilling lives.
(414) 310-6724 View (414) 310-6724
Photo of Sandra Eiler - Thrive Therapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, CPT, ICS
Thrive Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, CPT, ICS
1 Endorsed
Twin Lakes, WI 53181
Ready for change??? I help my clients by listening to and assessing their needs without judgment and with complete acceptance that they are where they are and THAT IS OKAY! We can only move forward from here. I am very passionate about the mental health field, which is evident through the care of services that I provide for my clients. I have observed clients move from severe depression to thriving in all areas of their lives. As a therapist, there is nothing more rewarding for me than to see clients live the abundant, peaceful lives they are meant to live.
Ready for change??? I help my clients by listening to and assessing their needs without judgment and with complete acceptance that they are where they are and THAT IS OKAY! We can only move forward from here. I am very passionate about the mental health field, which is evident through the care of services that I provide for my clients. I have observed clients move from severe depression to thriving in all areas of their lives. As a therapist, there is nothing more rewarding for me than to see clients live the abundant, peaceful lives they are meant to live.
(414) 375-2791 View (414) 375-2791
Photo of Patrice Shanta Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Patrice Shanta Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
P Moore Consulting offers Comprehensive assessments and mental health treatment services for children, adults and families. We provide crisis therapy interventions that are based on empirical research combined with years of clinical experience and training. Treatment is tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients.
P Moore Consulting offers Comprehensive assessments and mental health treatment services for children, adults and families. We provide crisis therapy interventions that are based on empirical research combined with years of clinical experience and training. Treatment is tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients.
(262) 624-0329 View (262) 624-0329
Photo of Dr. Annette Vielleux, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Annette Vielleux
Psychologist, PsyD
Burlington, WI 53105
You’re not competitive. You’re competent. Even though you’re a leader you feel more like an employee just taking orders. At times you feel so much crushing sadness. At other times, like you’re a failure. You compare yourself to those who seem to have it all — the resources, the confidence, the right connections. You know there are so many wounds here that you’ve attended to but have never fully healed. I work with women navigating burnout, complex trauma, dissociative patterns and grief. You may be carrying stories that aren’t yours: about success, safety and how much space you’re allowed to take up. It's time to take the leap.
You’re not competitive. You’re competent. Even though you’re a leader you feel more like an employee just taking orders. At times you feel so much crushing sadness. At other times, like you’re a failure. You compare yourself to those who seem to have it all — the resources, the confidence, the right connections. You know there are so many wounds here that you’ve attended to but have never fully healed. I work with women navigating burnout, complex trauma, dissociative patterns and grief. You may be carrying stories that aren’t yours: about success, safety and how much space you’re allowed to take up. It's time to take the leap.
(262) 537-5189 View (262) 537-5189
Photo of Alli Marifke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alli Marifke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Alli Marifke, LCSW graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelor’s in Social work and completed her Master’s program at George Williams College of Aurora in clinical social work, as well as completing a Master’s program in School Social Work. She has previously worked for a non-profit organization and during her time there, she worked primarily with adolescents and their families. She worked in different areas and has experience working with adolescents and young adults who struggle with substance abuse within an inpatient setting, crisis assessment and treatment, as well as outpatient individual and group therapy.
Alli Marifke, LCSW graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelor’s in Social work and completed her Master’s program at George Williams College of Aurora in clinical social work, as well as completing a Master’s program in School Social Work. She has previously worked for a non-profit organization and during her time there, she worked primarily with adolescents and their families. She worked in different areas and has experience working with adolescents and young adults who struggle with substance abuse within an inpatient setting, crisis assessment and treatment, as well as outpatient individual and group therapy.
(779) 256-4408 View (779) 256-4408
Photo of Claire Layton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, ICS
Claire Layton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, ICS
Waukesha, WI 53188
Welcome! I specialize in providing positive, compassionate care for all clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. I have experience helping people in all different circumstances, stages in life, with very different backgrounds. In the end, I believe that we all want kindness, respect, and to be heard. I focus on active listening and helping clients create their own path to wellness.
Welcome! I specialize in providing positive, compassionate care for all clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. I have experience helping people in all different circumstances, stages in life, with very different backgrounds. In the end, I believe that we all want kindness, respect, and to be heard. I focus on active listening and helping clients create their own path to wellness.
(262) 393-3937 View (262) 393-3937
Photo of Rachel Tillman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rachel Tillman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Greenfield, WI 53228
Life gets heavy. There is no way around it. Even the most evolved, positive, balanced people get stuck sometimes. There is no reason why we need to feel stuck by ourselves. Therapy can be the gift we give ourselves to get through the times when things feel hopeless. It also doesn’t need to be used only when we hit rock bottom. Therapy can be used as a way to continue growing through challenging life changes, navigating relationships, and help you learn more about yourself.
Life gets heavy. There is no way around it. Even the most evolved, positive, balanced people get stuck sometimes. There is no reason why we need to feel stuck by ourselves. Therapy can be the gift we give ourselves to get through the times when things feel hopeless. It also doesn’t need to be used only when we hit rock bottom. Therapy can be used as a way to continue growing through challenging life changes, navigating relationships, and help you learn more about yourself.
View
Photo of Phillip N Woods, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Phillip N Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Serves Area
Has your "I do" turned into "I'm not sure"? Or perhaps you've discovered the love you have for your spouse doesn't seem to be enough? Maybe feelings of emptiness are overpowering every area of your life? You want relief from those feelings of loneliness and emptiness, but it seems you can't seem to find it.
Has your "I do" turned into "I'm not sure"? Or perhaps you've discovered the love you have for your spouse doesn't seem to be enough? Maybe feelings of emptiness are overpowering every area of your life? You want relief from those feelings of loneliness and emptiness, but it seems you can't seem to find it.
(414) 420-0194 View (414) 420-0194
Photo of Dr. Patricia Stanik, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Dr. Patricia Stanik
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Brookfield, WI 53005
Dr. Stanik completed her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology in 1995. Since then she has provided neuropsychological and psychological assessments throughout the state of Wisconsin. She has worked in Neurorehabilitation facilities providing assessment and therapeutic interventions to patients who sustained traumatic brain injury or other organic sequalae. Her experience in brain injury recovery includes working with persons recovering from coma, acute, sub-acute, post-acute, acute day treatment and post-acute day treatment. She has been in private practice for 20 years as a clinical psychologist.
Dr. Stanik completed her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology in 1995. Since then she has provided neuropsychological and psychological assessments throughout the state of Wisconsin. She has worked in Neurorehabilitation facilities providing assessment and therapeutic interventions to patients who sustained traumatic brain injury or other organic sequalae. Her experience in brain injury recovery includes working with persons recovering from coma, acute, sub-acute, post-acute, acute day treatment and post-acute day treatment. She has been in private practice for 20 years as a clinical psychologist.
(262) 588-4088 View (262) 588-4088
Photo of Dione M Gisch, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP, NCC
Dione M Gisch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP, NCC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a firm believer in the value of personal growth and the unlimited benefits it encompasses. I work collaboratively with my clients in setting and reaching their goals, while providing a safe, genuine, therapeutic relationship. I am a psychotherapist in private practice with a graduate degree from Marquette University in Counseling, with a Community Counseling emphasis. The majority of my life has been spent serving young adult, adult, and senior members of my community. My experiences include work with physical medicine & rehab, chronic pain, survivors of sexual abuse, grief/loss, cancer survivors, and homeless women and their children.
I am a firm believer in the value of personal growth and the unlimited benefits it encompasses. I work collaboratively with my clients in setting and reaching their goals, while providing a safe, genuine, therapeutic relationship. I am a psychotherapist in private practice with a graduate degree from Marquette University in Counseling, with a Community Counseling emphasis. The majority of my life has been spent serving young adult, adult, and senior members of my community. My experiences include work with physical medicine & rehab, chronic pain, survivors of sexual abuse, grief/loss, cancer survivors, and homeless women and their children.
(414) 616-7310 View (414) 616-7310

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Palmyra, WI

< 10

Therapists in Palmyra, WI who prioritize treating:

100% Parenting
100% Anger Management
50% Relationship Issues
50% Eating Disorders
50% Depression
50% Anxiety
50% Chronic Pain

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Palmyra, WI see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Palmyra?

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.