Therapists in Windsor, WI

Photo of Austine Roney, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austine Roney
Licensed Professional Counselor
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You have spent years pushing through fear, anxiety, self-doubt, or painful experiences from your past. You may look like you have it together on the outside, but inside you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted from carrying it all alone. Maybe you struggle in relationships, second-guess yourself, avoid opportunities, or find yourself suddenly flooded with emotion and unsure why. Many of the people I work with are carrying the impact of trauma, childhood wounds, emotional abuse, difficult relationships, or experiences that continue to shape how they see themselves and move through the world.
You have spent years pushing through fear, anxiety, self-doubt, or painful experiences from your past. You may look like you have it together on the outside, but inside you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted from carrying it all alone. Maybe you struggle in relationships, second-guess yourself, avoid opportunities, or find yourself suddenly flooded with emotion and unsure why. Many of the people I work with are carrying the impact of trauma, childhood wounds, emotional abuse, difficult relationships, or experiences that continue to shape how they see themselves and move through the world.
(608) 593-5235 View (608) 593-5235
Photo of Katie Geiser, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Katie Geiser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
1 Endorsed
Windsor, WI 53598
Hello! I’m Katie and I specialize in helping people feel less anxious in their life. Therapy with me is a place where you can exhale and feel seen. I show up as a real human—warm, curious, and grounded—and together we explore the experiences, patterns, and emotions that are shaping your life. I draw from trauma-informed, somatic, and EMDR approaches to help you understand not just what you feel, but why, and what those feelings are trying to protect or express. My goal is to help you feel more at home in yourself, more connected to your strengths, and more able live in a way that feels aligned and peaceful.
Hello! I’m Katie and I specialize in helping people feel less anxious in their life. Therapy with me is a place where you can exhale and feel seen. I show up as a real human—warm, curious, and grounded—and together we explore the experiences, patterns, and emotions that are shaping your life. I draw from trauma-informed, somatic, and EMDR approaches to help you understand not just what you feel, but why, and what those feelings are trying to protect or express. My goal is to help you feel more at home in yourself, more connected to your strengths, and more able live in a way that feels aligned and peaceful.
(608) 200-2444 View (608) 200-2444
Photo of Joseph Leonard, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joseph Leonard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'm Joe Leonard, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I take a systemic approach to therapy, looking at all the dimensions of life that may be affecting a client's mental health and functioning. My focus is on restoring mental health, social/occupational functioning, and healthy relationships.
I'm Joe Leonard, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I take a systemic approach to therapy, looking at all the dimensions of life that may be affecting a client's mental health and functioning. My focus is on restoring mental health, social/occupational functioning, and healthy relationships.
(414) 240-2168 View (414) 240-2168

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Siera Daniels, Counselor, LPC-IT, NCC, MS
Siera Daniels
Counselor, LPC-IT, NCC, MS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
My passion is being able to walk the journey of exploring your mental health with you. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment that allows you to speak about anything you feel and experience. As we build our therapeutic bond, we can collaborate to create a personalized treatment plan that will benefit you as an individual. The main focus of my practice is creating a space where you feel heard and supported so that your true self can shine through!
My passion is being able to walk the journey of exploring your mental health with you. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment that allows you to speak about anything you feel and experience. As we build our therapeutic bond, we can collaborate to create a personalized treatment plan that will benefit you as an individual. The main focus of my practice is creating a space where you feel heard and supported so that your true self can shine through!
(262) 381-3720 View (262) 381-3720
Photo of Stephanie Marie Franzoni - Snow Lake Counseling PLLC., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Snow Lake Counseling PLLC.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
10 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53714
Each of our clinicians have extensive training to support individuals and couples looking to cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling sex life. We specialize in restoring sexual confidence, addressing sexual dysfunction, consensual non-monogamy, and providing support for those facing challenges related to depression, ADHD, anxiety, and relational dynamics. In our work, we trust that you are the expert of your life and we are committed to meeting you where you are while facilitating an environment for change and empowerment. Visit our website to explore which style and fit might be right for you.
Each of our clinicians have extensive training to support individuals and couples looking to cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling sex life. We specialize in restoring sexual confidence, addressing sexual dysfunction, consensual non-monogamy, and providing support for those facing challenges related to depression, ADHD, anxiety, and relational dynamics. In our work, we trust that you are the expert of your life and we are committed to meeting you where you are while facilitating an environment for change and empowerment. Visit our website to explore which style and fit might be right for you.
(773) 770-8613 View (773) 770-8613
Photo of Elizabeth Schrimpf, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Elizabeth Schrimpf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Madison, WI 53711
A graduate of Lakeland College in Sheboygan, WI, Elizabeth Schrimpf, LPC has worked in a variety of counseling settings since 2014. As a therapist, Elizabeth is skilled in helping teens and adults process and adapt to significant life changes such as grief, religious trauma recovery / deconstruction, job loss, divorce and other changes to family situations. Her clinical experience focuses on treating the anxiety and depression that come with these changes and she uses a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support her clients in learning to build the life they want.
A graduate of Lakeland College in Sheboygan, WI, Elizabeth Schrimpf, LPC has worked in a variety of counseling settings since 2014. As a therapist, Elizabeth is skilled in helping teens and adults process and adapt to significant life changes such as grief, religious trauma recovery / deconstruction, job loss, divorce and other changes to family situations. Her clinical experience focuses on treating the anxiety and depression that come with these changes and she uses a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support her clients in learning to build the life they want.
(608) 200-5433 View (608) 200-5433
Photo of Tyler Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tyler Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
You’re thoughtful and used to handling things on your own, but something has started to feel heavier than it used to. Maybe you’re grieving, angry, anxious, or quietly overwhelmed. From the outside things might still look fine, but inside you know something is off and it’s beginning to affect your work, your relationships, or how you see yourself. You’re not looking to be “fixed,” and you’re not interested in being talked down to. You want clarity, steadiness, and space to think honestly about what’s going on. You’re willing to look at difficult things if it leads to living with more integrity and less quiet strain.
You’re thoughtful and used to handling things on your own, but something has started to feel heavier than it used to. Maybe you’re grieving, angry, anxious, or quietly overwhelmed. From the outside things might still look fine, but inside you know something is off and it’s beginning to affect your work, your relationships, or how you see yourself. You’re not looking to be “fixed,” and you’re not interested in being talked down to. You want clarity, steadiness, and space to think honestly about what’s going on. You’re willing to look at difficult things if it leads to living with more integrity and less quiet strain.
(608) 459-1519 View (608) 459-1519
Photo of Dr. Valerie Burns Cathers, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CSAC, NCC, DARTT
Dr. Valerie Burns Cathers
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CSAC, NCC, DARTT
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
Many people ask me, "Why would I want to feel my feelings?” Whether you are constantly staring at a screen, filling every space on your calendar to avoid being alone with your thoughts, putting on a new mask for every person you encounter, or using alcohol as "social lubricant" to quiet the noise, many of us have mastered the art of avoidance. Some of us neatly tuck our feelings away, trading our emotions for a nicely organized life with lots of explanations and justifications, while others stuff the jumbled up mess under the bed.
Many people ask me, "Why would I want to feel my feelings?” Whether you are constantly staring at a screen, filling every space on your calendar to avoid being alone with your thoughts, putting on a new mask for every person you encounter, or using alcohol as "social lubricant" to quiet the noise, many of us have mastered the art of avoidance. Some of us neatly tuck our feelings away, trading our emotions for a nicely organized life with lots of explanations and justifications, while others stuff the jumbled up mess under the bed.
(608) 535-6362 View (608) 535-6362
Photo of Rachel Gordon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rachel Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
My name is Rachel Gordon. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2017. I also hold my Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor license and have been working with addictions professionally since 2014. I am eclectic, using techniques from Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am trained in Seeking Safety, and Autism Assessment and have completed two stages of Brainspotting training. I vary my approach depending on each client and their unique needs. I enjoy using somatic and sensory interventions, as appropriate.
My name is Rachel Gordon. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2017. I also hold my Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor license and have been working with addictions professionally since 2014. I am eclectic, using techniques from Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am trained in Seeking Safety, and Autism Assessment and have completed two stages of Brainspotting training. I vary my approach depending on each client and their unique needs. I enjoy using somatic and sensory interventions, as appropriate.
(414) 710-0947 View (414) 710-0947
Photo of Dr. Vivian Tamkin, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Dr. Vivian Tamkin
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Madison, WI 53711
Dr. Tamkin's theoretical approach to clinical practice is rooted in a relational, life course lens. Through this framework and the therapeutic relationship, she aims to co-create increased understanding of one's lived experiences through a multilayered systemic context, i.e., we are born and reared in a family system that lives in a community system, that also shares connections with and to a greater societal system. Dr.
Dr. Tamkin's theoretical approach to clinical practice is rooted in a relational, life course lens. Through this framework and the therapeutic relationship, she aims to co-create increased understanding of one's lived experiences through a multilayered systemic context, i.e., we are born and reared in a family system that lives in a community system, that also shares connections with and to a greater societal system. Dr.
(608) 557-8762 View (608) 557-8762
Photo of Baine Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Baine Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults in individual and couples therapy to help address the challenges of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, divorce, and relationship problems. I believe that psychotherapy is collaborative and that the relationship between the therapist and client is essential to the process of change. I work to develop this relationship through gaining a deep understanding and respect for each individual and their unique circumstances.
I work with adults in individual and couples therapy to help address the challenges of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, divorce, and relationship problems. I believe that psychotherapy is collaborative and that the relationship between the therapist and client is essential to the process of change. I work to develop this relationship through gaining a deep understanding and respect for each individual and their unique circumstances.
(608) 200-2652 View (608) 200-2652
Photo of Mimi E Porat, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Mimi E Porat
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
As a therapist, I so value the healing potential of human connection. Emotion and suffering are natural reactions to life, and the ability to sit with and process life’s challenges with another person can be a gift. Sharing moments of loss, shame, joy, and disappointment can lead to stronger self-acceptance and connection with others. I strive to be welcoming, open, and empathetic to all clients who walk through the door.
As a therapist, I so value the healing potential of human connection. Emotion and suffering are natural reactions to life, and the ability to sit with and process life’s challenges with another person can be a gift. Sharing moments of loss, shame, joy, and disappointment can lead to stronger self-acceptance and connection with others. I strive to be welcoming, open, and empathetic to all clients who walk through the door.
(414) 409-5379 View (414) 409-5379
Photo of Angel Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW, SAC-IT
Angel Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW, SAC-IT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You are not alone! When things get hard, we can all use a bit of inspiration and guidance. I’m here to help you take control of your life; to recognize your ability, to find meaning, and belonging.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You are not alone! When things get hard, we can all use a bit of inspiration and guidance. I’m here to help you take control of your life; to recognize your ability, to find meaning, and belonging.
(608) 440-2263 View (608) 440-2263
Photo of Merija Eisen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Merija Eisen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Madison, WI 53703
Not accepting new clients
The confusion that comes with anxiety, depression, or conflicted relationships can make any person feels as if they are stumbling in the dark, unable to remember positive experiences such as simple happiness, curiosity, and fulfillment. Effective psychotherapy is like "turning on the lights" of awareness, allowing us to recover internal clarity, healthy connection with others, and meaningful sense of direction.
The confusion that comes with anxiety, depression, or conflicted relationships can make any person feels as if they are stumbling in the dark, unable to remember positive experiences such as simple happiness, curiosity, and fulfillment. Effective psychotherapy is like "turning on the lights" of awareness, allowing us to recover internal clarity, healthy connection with others, and meaningful sense of direction.
(608) 473-3192 x10 View (608) 473-3192 x10
Photo of Sarah Jaeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Jaeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, I’m Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals through a variety of mental health challenges. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin Parkside and my Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and substance use concerns. My goal is to provide a supportive and compassionate space where you can better understand your experiences, strengthen coping skills, and move toward greater emotional balance and well being.
Hi, I’m Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals through a variety of mental health challenges. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin Parkside and my Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and substance use concerns. My goal is to provide a supportive and compassionate space where you can better understand your experiences, strengthen coping skills, and move toward greater emotional balance and well being.
(608) 605-6823 View (608) 605-6823
Photo of Sarah Luetzow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Luetzow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Your messiness is welcome. Your inner contradictions are welcome. Through the process of therapy, you will practice seeing and being seen. It takes incredible courage to reach for connection, within ourselves and with others. I am committed to building a connected relationship with you that will be the foundation and vehicle of healing that occurs in therapy. I have experience working with people with a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including complex and acute trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, relationship and attachment issues, grief/loss, major life transitions, and identity exploration.
Your messiness is welcome. Your inner contradictions are welcome. Through the process of therapy, you will practice seeing and being seen. It takes incredible courage to reach for connection, within ourselves and with others. I am committed to building a connected relationship with you that will be the foundation and vehicle of healing that occurs in therapy. I have experience working with people with a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including complex and acute trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, relationship and attachment issues, grief/loss, major life transitions, and identity exploration.
(608) 557-3707 View (608) 557-3707
Photo of Melissa Geurtsen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Melissa Geurtsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve been there for others-now it’s time for you. I’m Melissa, a Licensed Therapist, providing therapy for teens, adults, and older adults. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or simply wanting a safe space to process and reflect, therapy can help you find clarity and balance. My goal is to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported to make meaningful changes. With years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges, I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a powerful step toward healing and growth.
You’ve been there for others-now it’s time for you. I’m Melissa, a Licensed Therapist, providing therapy for teens, adults, and older adults. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or simply wanting a safe space to process and reflect, therapy can help you find clarity and balance. My goal is to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported to make meaningful changes. With years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges, I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a powerful step toward healing and growth.
(608) 292-4529 View (608) 292-4529
Photo of Amber Colby-Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-IT, MPH
Amber Colby-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-IT, MPH
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
You may look like you're holding everything together on the outside, but internally you're exhausted. Maybe you feel stuck in the same relationship patterns, feel disconnected from yourself, struggle with anxiety, or are navigating a major life transition. I work with teens and adults who want more than temporary coping strategies. Together, we'll explore the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that have shaped the way you relate to yourself and others. My goal is to help you better understand your emotions, build self-trust, and create meaningful change that aligns with the person you want to become.
You may look like you're holding everything together on the outside, but internally you're exhausted. Maybe you feel stuck in the same relationship patterns, feel disconnected from yourself, struggle with anxiety, or are navigating a major life transition. I work with teens and adults who want more than temporary coping strategies. Together, we'll explore the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that have shaped the way you relate to yourself and others. My goal is to help you better understand your emotions, build self-trust, and create meaningful change that aligns with the person you want to become.
(608) 677-6873 View (608) 677-6873
Photo of David Comparetto, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
David Comparetto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I work with couples and individuals ages 13 and up. During individual therapy, I use a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy to help individuals change thought patterns to improve how they feel and interact with the world. I am level 2 trained in Gottman couples therapy, I help couples improve communication, conflict management, friendship and intimacy and rebuilding trust after infidelity. I provide a down to earth and humorous approach to meeting clients where they are at in order to develop goals that fit where the client is trying to make changes in their life. I am licensed In Minnesota, Wisconsin and Nebraska, by office is
I work with couples and individuals ages 13 and up. During individual therapy, I use a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy to help individuals change thought patterns to improve how they feel and interact with the world. I am level 2 trained in Gottman couples therapy, I help couples improve communication, conflict management, friendship and intimacy and rebuilding trust after infidelity. I provide a down to earth and humorous approach to meeting clients where they are at in order to develop goals that fit where the client is trying to make changes in their life. I am licensed In Minnesota, Wisconsin and Nebraska, by office is
(651) 705-4041 View (651) 705-4041
Photo of Stephanie Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MC-ASD, CTTP
Stephanie Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MC-ASD, CTTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, losing time, loss of a sense of self, masking, sensory overload, or trauma that affects activities of daily life, life goals, relationships, or work? Do you find yourself feeling exhausted, frustrated, lost, overwhelmed, or just plain done by trying get through the day or live up to other’s standards? Do you question whether life could be better? Now more than ever, folks are feeling uncertain about finding a life that they want to live.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, losing time, loss of a sense of self, masking, sensory overload, or trauma that affects activities of daily life, life goals, relationships, or work? Do you find yourself feeling exhausted, frustrated, lost, overwhelmed, or just plain done by trying get through the day or live up to other’s standards? Do you question whether life could be better? Now more than ever, folks are feeling uncertain about finding a life that they want to live.
(608) 640-3303 View (608) 640-3303

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Windsor, WI

< 10

Therapists in Windsor, WI who prioritize treating:

100% Self Esteem
100% Codependency
100% Life Transitions
100% Stress
67% Anxiety
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Windsor, WI see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Windsor?

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.