Photo of Jessica G Dashevsky, MS, LPC, PMH-C, CSTIP, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica G Dashevsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C, CSTIP, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
Currently accepting Superviseed! As a therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders, fertility challenges, intimacy and sex issues, sexual kink, and lactation difficulties. As a mother who has personally struggled with fertility and loss, I understand how difficult these issues can be. That's why I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and receive customized treatment that meets your unique needs. I do also have expertise in the poly/Enm lifestyle and can help navigate your journey of exploration.
Currently accepting Superviseed! As a therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders, fertility challenges, intimacy and sex issues, sexual kink, and lactation difficulties. As a mother who has personally struggled with fertility and loss, I understand how difficult these issues can be. That's why I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and receive customized treatment that meets your unique needs. I do also have expertise in the poly/Enm lifestyle and can help navigate your journey of exploration.
(267) 463-4281 View (267) 463-4281
Photo of Eugene G Devers - Dr E. Devers, Philly Family Life Counseling LLC, DMin, AAMFT, BCCC, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr E. Devers, Philly Family Life Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, AAMFT, BCCC, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
I focus upon all things relational. We all occasionally find ourselves facing a transition/change, problem, concern, or conflict that we are unable to resolve; despite our determined attempts. I maintain that what we get "stuck-in" is living life and relational; no matter with whom or to what we are relating. If you desire, and are ready to learn how to get "un-stuck", I am prepared to help you create positive lasting changes in your life. I promise to provide you respectful, culturally sensitive, person centered, and solution focused counseling care. I look forward to hearing from you.
I focus upon all things relational. We all occasionally find ourselves facing a transition/change, problem, concern, or conflict that we are unable to resolve; despite our determined attempts. I maintain that what we get "stuck-in" is living life and relational; no matter with whom or to what we are relating. If you desire, and are ready to learn how to get "un-stuck", I am prepared to help you create positive lasting changes in your life. I promise to provide you respectful, culturally sensitive, person centered, and solution focused counseling care. I look forward to hearing from you.
(215) 352-3145 View (215) 352-3145
Photo of Alfi Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alfi Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
We are the expert of our lives, but at times we may need some additional support or guidance. While we often give priority to taking care of our physical health, I believe our mental and emotional health needs just as much attention.
We are the expert of our lives, but at times we may need some additional support or guidance. While we often give priority to taking care of our physical health, I believe our mental and emotional health needs just as much attention.
(469) 423-8757 View (469) 423-8757
Photo of Victor Tsan, MD, LAC, CHP
Victor Tsan
MD, LAC, CHP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
My name is Dr. Tsan and I'm medical doctor, certified hypnotherapist, homeopath, acupuncturist and reiki master. I am also the Medical Director of Philadelphia Holistic Clinic. In this clinic all holistic modalities reside under one roof. Holistic treatment is my specialty and I use it in my medical practice during the period of last 40+ years. The core concept of acupuncture is related to the qi energy that presents in our body. Hypnotherapy is a technique that combines the power of suggestion and an altered state of consciousness to change in behavior.
My name is Dr. Tsan and I'm medical doctor, certified hypnotherapist, homeopath, acupuncturist and reiki master. I am also the Medical Director of Philadelphia Holistic Clinic. In this clinic all holistic modalities reside under one roof. Holistic treatment is my specialty and I use it in my medical practice during the period of last 40+ years. The core concept of acupuncture is related to the qi energy that presents in our body. Hypnotherapy is a technique that combines the power of suggestion and an altered state of consciousness to change in behavior.
(267) 460-4560 View (267) 460-4560
Photo of Irene Feigin, MA, Psychologist
Irene Feigin
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and I have been treating clients in private practice for the past 10 years in Philadelphia. I work with adults, children and families. I support my clients and help them learn how to cope with and overcome personal challenges, build inner strength and develop self-confidence. I create therapeutic atmosphere of respect, safety, and trust. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I listen and take interest in each client. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and I have been treating clients in private practice for the past 10 years in Philadelphia. I work with adults, children and families. I support my clients and help them learn how to cope with and overcome personal challenges, build inner strength and develop self-confidence. I create therapeutic atmosphere of respect, safety, and trust. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I listen and take interest in each client. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
(215) 874-7287 View (215) 874-7287
Photo of Ciara Ivey, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Ciara Ivey
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
Are you ready to make a much-needed change in your life? Does it feel like you do not have the support you want and need? Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, or general stress, I am here to help. I help motivated individuals develop a healthier relationship with themselves and with others. While working together, I seek to create a safe space for you to express yourself, process your thoughts and feelings, and work towards overcoming challenges and reaching personal goals.
Are you ready to make a much-needed change in your life? Does it feel like you do not have the support you want and need? Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, or general stress, I am here to help. I help motivated individuals develop a healthier relationship with themselves and with others. While working together, I seek to create a safe space for you to express yourself, process your thoughts and feelings, and work towards overcoming challenges and reaching personal goals.
(267) 633-8322 View (267) 633-8322
Photo of Care Connection
Care Connection
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
We are a group of graduate-level psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors who provide quality mental health care to the Northeast Philadelphia community. As a mental health collective, we assist members by providing therapy, medication management, coaching, and more. Let us help you connect with one of our therapists who meets your needs and is available to see you, online or in-person.
We are a group of graduate-level psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors who provide quality mental health care to the Northeast Philadelphia community. As a mental health collective, we assist members by providing therapy, medication management, coaching, and more. Let us help you connect with one of our therapists who meets your needs and is available to see you, online or in-person.
(267) 544-1825 View (267) 544-1825
Photo of Dr. Ida Devers Diplomate Of Med Cannabinoid Science, DHA, MBA, MS, LN, ASN
Dr. Ida Devers Diplomate Of Med Cannabinoid Science
DHA, MBA, MS, LN, ASN
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
I’m Dr. Ida Devers. With a passion for holistic health and a dedication to improving lives, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field of health administration and wellness. I hold a Doctoral degree in Health Administration and an MBA in Health Administration, equipping me with a robust understanding of the healthcare landscape. My academic journey also includes a Master of Science in Integrative and Functional Medicine, reflecting my commitment to a comprehensive approach to health.
I’m Dr. Ida Devers. With a passion for holistic health and a dedication to improving lives, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field of health administration and wellness. I hold a Doctoral degree in Health Administration and an MBA in Health Administration, equipping me with a robust understanding of the healthcare landscape. My academic journey also includes a Master of Science in Integrative and Functional Medicine, reflecting my commitment to a comprehensive approach to health.
(267) 459-8511 View (267) 459-8511
Photo of Shanee Oiknine, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanee Oiknine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
As a mother to teen and school-aged kids, I know how worried we can get when our kids are sad or not acting like their 'regular ' selves. That said, I also know that with the right support, positive change is possible. As a child-adolescent counselor with over 21 years of experience, I understand how to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients to explore what they are experiencing and how best to help them overcome challenges. I also encourage you, as parents, to work with me to uncover the strengths, insights, and resources that will enable your teen or child to achieve their goals to live a more fulfilling life.
As a mother to teen and school-aged kids, I know how worried we can get when our kids are sad or not acting like their 'regular ' selves. That said, I also know that with the right support, positive change is possible. As a child-adolescent counselor with over 21 years of experience, I understand how to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients to explore what they are experiencing and how best to help them overcome challenges. I also encourage you, as parents, to work with me to uncover the strengths, insights, and resources that will enable your teen or child to achieve their goals to live a more fulfilling life.
(440) 659-1171 View (440) 659-1171
Photo of Paulette Chobot, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paulette Chobot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting this page and allowing me to be a part of your healing journey. I am honored that you have chosen to review my experience to see if we are a good match. I provide a safe space for you to feel empowered to change at your pace and experience the freedom to grow. My approach is each person has life experience that needs to be honored. In honoring you for who you are and where you are in life, I can assist you with moving through the emotional discomfort as well as offer techniques and skills to bring comfort.
Thank you for visiting this page and allowing me to be a part of your healing journey. I am honored that you have chosen to review my experience to see if we are a good match. I provide a safe space for you to feel empowered to change at your pace and experience the freedom to grow. My approach is each person has life experience that needs to be honored. In honoring you for who you are and where you are in life, I can assist you with moving through the emotional discomfort as well as offer techniques and skills to bring comfort.
(267) 310-1175 View (267) 310-1175
Photo of Dr. Jonathan J Tomlin, EdD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jonathan J Tomlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Dr. Tomlin, and I am a licensed and nationally certified professional counselor and traumatologist. I specialize in various modalities, including strength-based coaching, existentialism, multicultural awareness, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am passionate about helping others achieve social, emotional, and behavioral improvements and providing them with the fundamental tools to overcome life struggles so they can prosper. Life is full of obstacles and difficult circumstances, which can feel overwhelming and all-consuming.
Hello! My name is Dr. Tomlin, and I am a licensed and nationally certified professional counselor and traumatologist. I specialize in various modalities, including strength-based coaching, existentialism, multicultural awareness, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am passionate about helping others achieve social, emotional, and behavioral improvements and providing them with the fundamental tools to overcome life struggles so they can prosper. Life is full of obstacles and difficult circumstances, which can feel overwhelming and all-consuming.
(215) 484-3421 View (215) 484-3421
Photo of Lauren Green, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
I want to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. You can talk to me about anything that’s bothering you. I’m an expert listener and will guide you in finding effective solutions to your problems. When you sit with me, I give you my complete attention and support. Talking with me in an accepting, caring space can be healing. Learning new ways to cope and understand things can lift your mood. I believe that entering into therapy is an excellent start. That’s why I do this – because I see positive changes in my clients. My style is warm, interactive and compassionate.
I want to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. You can talk to me about anything that’s bothering you. I’m an expert listener and will guide you in finding effective solutions to your problems. When you sit with me, I give you my complete attention and support. Talking with me in an accepting, caring space can be healing. Learning new ways to cope and understand things can lift your mood. I believe that entering into therapy is an excellent start. That’s why I do this – because I see positive changes in my clients. My style is warm, interactive and compassionate.
(267) 214-8722 View (267) 214-8722
Photo of Kim Finnie, MSW, CSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Finnie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
(856) 942-4717 View (856) 942-4717
Photo of Marsha J Friedman, PhD, Psychologist
Marsha J Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
The challenges of recent years and their unique stresses and isolation may have increased the feeling that no one understands the difficult world that you carry around inside. Seeking therapy is an important decision that may mean you are ready to grow and change and understand more fully the roadblocks that get in the way of living the life you want for yourself. You are seeking an experienced, empathic and trusted professional who will come to learn your inner landscape along with you and will support and guide you as you make the changes you seek. Together we will work toward your creating a more joyful and meaningful life.
The challenges of recent years and their unique stresses and isolation may have increased the feeling that no one understands the difficult world that you carry around inside. Seeking therapy is an important decision that may mean you are ready to grow and change and understand more fully the roadblocks that get in the way of living the life you want for yourself. You are seeking an experienced, empathic and trusted professional who will come to learn your inner landscape along with you and will support and guide you as you make the changes you seek. Together we will work toward your creating a more joyful and meaningful life.
(215) 240-1305 View (215) 240-1305
Photo of Sarah Halpern, JD, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Halpern
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
If you are reading this, you have already begun your journey towards transformation. Change happens from the inside out. It starts with a desire or longing for something in your life to be different. If you are single or in a relationship and looking for enhanced connection with another or greater understanding of yourself, I would be honored to work with you, beside you and support you in the process of growth, healing and discovery.
If you are reading this, you have already begun your journey towards transformation. Change happens from the inside out. It starts with a desire or longing for something in your life to be different. If you are single or in a relationship and looking for enhanced connection with another or greater understanding of yourself, I would be honored to work with you, beside you and support you in the process of growth, healing and discovery.
(610) 981-1554 View (610) 981-1554
Photo of Bonnie Jean Kane - Mind Body Soul Wellness Center, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mind Body Soul Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Finally science and spirit integrated services... Bonnie combines the mind, the body and the soul into my therapy and offers multiple services to treat each aspect of them. We specialize in helping those who are still spiritually connected and still treat all. Our team also does massage and myofascial Release. however, these services are at an out-of-pocket expense. Our waitlist is with Bonnie for mental health, our out-of-pocket services have limited spaces open.
Finally science and spirit integrated services... Bonnie combines the mind, the body and the soul into my therapy and offers multiple services to treat each aspect of them. We specialize in helping those who are still spiritually connected and still treat all. Our team also does massage and myofascial Release. however, these services are at an out-of-pocket expense. Our waitlist is with Bonnie for mental health, our out-of-pocket services have limited spaces open.
(215) 660-5198 View (215) 660-5198
Photo of Ella Chrelashvili, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Ella Chrelashvili
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Navigating the complexities of the human experience can be hard and confusing. Despite our best efforts to construct a life aligned with our dreams and aspirations, we often find ourselves confronted by waves of pain, anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, stress, and guilt. In the midst of these struggles, it's natural to question ourselves and our behaviors, wondering, “What's wrong with me?” We feel exhausted as we desperately try to change ourselves, seeking any form of relief from the relentless tide of inner turmoil, yet it seems that nothing we do brings the desired results.
Navigating the complexities of the human experience can be hard and confusing. Despite our best efforts to construct a life aligned with our dreams and aspirations, we often find ourselves confronted by waves of pain, anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, stress, and guilt. In the midst of these struggles, it's natural to question ourselves and our behaviors, wondering, “What's wrong with me?” We feel exhausted as we desperately try to change ourselves, seeking any form of relief from the relentless tide of inner turmoil, yet it seems that nothing we do brings the desired results.
(267) 710-9141 View (267) 710-9141
Photo of Tracy Varghese, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Varghese
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115
I see my role as an honor and privilege to be able to walk alongside each one of my clients in order to find hope, and healing. Healing requires a safe place to explore deeper emotions and thoughts that may arise. I recognize the importance of providing that secure and safe space to help clients feel comfortable enough to share their stories, struggles and pain. Being a second generation American, I want to bring cultural humility to my approach and seek to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to client’s specific needs.
I see my role as an honor and privilege to be able to walk alongside each one of my clients in order to find hope, and healing. Healing requires a safe place to explore deeper emotions and thoughts that may arise. I recognize the importance of providing that secure and safe space to help clients feel comfortable enough to share their stories, struggles and pain. Being a second generation American, I want to bring cultural humility to my approach and seek to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to client’s specific needs.
(267) 356-5885 View (267) 356-5885
Photo of Diane Sizer - Growth Opportunity Center, PhD, Psychologist
Growth Opportunity Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Growth Opportunity Center is a caring and responsive mental health therapy practice providing comprehensive psychotherapy and psychiatric services to the community both in-person and through telehealth. Our staff of skilled and experienced therapists will help you manage struggles and reach your fullest potential. Our therapists have experience and training in specialized treatment approaches to match your unique needs. GOC has been successfully serving individuals and families in the Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia county communities for over 50 years and welcomes you to reach out to learn more about us.
Growth Opportunity Center is a caring and responsive mental health therapy practice providing comprehensive psychotherapy and psychiatric services to the community both in-person and through telehealth. Our staff of skilled and experienced therapists will help you manage struggles and reach your fullest potential. Our therapists have experience and training in specialized treatment approaches to match your unique needs. GOC has been successfully serving individuals and families in the Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia county communities for over 50 years and welcomes you to reach out to learn more about us.
(267) 641-3836 View (267) 641-3836
Photo of Samuel B Means, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samuel B Means
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115  (Online Only)
My training and expertise, as a Licensed Professional Counselor, is shaped and molded by my academic and seminary education. I feel that I am uniquely qualified to address the spiritual, cultural, emotional and mental challenges of my clients.
My training and expertise, as a Licensed Professional Counselor, is shaped and molded by my academic and seminary education. I feel that I am uniquely qualified to address the spiritual, cultural, emotional and mental challenges of my clients.
(717) 922-5347 View (717) 922-5347
1

See more therapy options for 19115

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 19115

20+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in 19115 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
90% Depression
81% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Coping Skills
76% Stress
71% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% Other
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 19115 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 19115?

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.