Photo of Kenya Elizabeth Brown, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenya Elizabeth Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
Hi, I see counseling as a space for acceptance and understanding, designed to promote and nurture change. For some, counseling may involve using the counselor as a sounding board, while for others, it can be a means to overcome life's obstacles. I tailor my support to each individual's needs. I'm an ally to everyone because I love people, and we all deserve kindness and respect.
Hi, I see counseling as a space for acceptance and understanding, designed to promote and nurture change. For some, counseling may involve using the counselor as a sounding board, while for others, it can be a means to overcome life's obstacles. I tailor my support to each individual's needs. I'm an ally to everyone because I love people, and we all deserve kindness and respect.
(704) 610-1275 View (704) 610-1275
Photo of Kimberly Murrell, LCMHC
Kimberly Murrell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) based in North Carolina.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) based in North Carolina.
(704) 908-6204 View (704) 908-6204
Photo of Kenetra Devonne Dandridge (Moore) - Kaydium Therapy Services, LCAS, LCMHC, CCS, Sexolog, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaydium Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAS, LCMHC, CCS, Sexolog
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
I am accepting NEW CLIENTS!! I am a Charlotte native. I have been passionate about working with people that seek Substance Use and Mental Health support for over 15 years. I enjoy collaborating and empowering my patients to reach their desired outcomes. My approach is based on the individual needs and I believe that the person sitting in front of me is actually the expert, I’m simply the tool that gets to help navigate the journey!
I am accepting NEW CLIENTS!! I am a Charlotte native. I have been passionate about working with people that seek Substance Use and Mental Health support for over 15 years. I enjoy collaborating and empowering my patients to reach their desired outcomes. My approach is based on the individual needs and I believe that the person sitting in front of me is actually the expert, I’m simply the tool that gets to help navigate the journey!
(980) 243-4181 View (980) 243-4181
Photo of Lakira S Williams - L.S. Williams Consulting, LLC , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
L.S. Williams Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you with the tools you need to attain your goals and reach your full potential! I am a Licensed Psychotherapist residing in the state of North Carolina. I am also fully licensed in the state of New York. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you with the tools you need to attain your goals and reach your full potential! I am a Licensed Psychotherapist residing in the state of North Carolina. I am also fully licensed in the state of New York. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
(704) 237-6629 View (704) 237-6629
Photo of Valari Knight Boston, MDiv, CCP, GRC, Pastoral Counselor
Valari Knight Boston
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, CCP, GRC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
We are always reaching to be the best in all we do. This often times causes pressure as we try to meet standards other have set. We often feel that we are failures. Sometimes you may be pushed to bring the experiences of others into your life and that does not work. Have you set you own personal goals? Do you utilize the skills that are within? Are you feeling lost or abandoned? Dealing with losses and grief? How is your self esteem? Are you interested in learning something new? Are you ready to overcome fears? Did you know that you are gifted and equipped? Let’s talk about your growth and begin building your journey together!
We are always reaching to be the best in all we do. This often times causes pressure as we try to meet standards other have set. We often feel that we are failures. Sometimes you may be pushed to bring the experiences of others into your life and that does not work. Have you set you own personal goals? Do you utilize the skills that are within? Are you feeling lost or abandoned? Dealing with losses and grief? How is your self esteem? Are you interested in learning something new? Are you ready to overcome fears? Did you know that you are gifted and equipped? Let’s talk about your growth and begin building your journey together!
(704) 387-3234 View (704) 387-3234
Photo of Danielle Cisney, LCMHC
Danielle Cisney
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
Do you find your thoughts are getting in your way? I help people get their difficult thoughts and emotions out of their way so they can become more like the person they want to be. I'd love to help you learn strategies for skillfully managing what your mind tries to throw at you. Danielle Cisney, LCMHC . I use a combination of creativity, curiosity, and playfulness to share what I know about how our minds work. Through evidenced-based approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I'll teach you skills that will help you reach your goals in a healthy and effective way.
Do you find your thoughts are getting in your way? I help people get their difficult thoughts and emotions out of their way so they can become more like the person they want to be. I'd love to help you learn strategies for skillfully managing what your mind tries to throw at you. Danielle Cisney, LCMHC . I use a combination of creativity, curiosity, and playfulness to share what I know about how our minds work. Through evidenced-based approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I'll teach you skills that will help you reach your goals in a healthy and effective way.
(980) 350-7635 View (980) 350-7635
Photo of Melissa J Gary, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa J Gary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges and seeking support on your journey towards healing and personal growth? Melissa, therapist with Behind The Smile, PLLC, provides a welcoming sanctuary where the journey of healing commences and optimism is rekindled. With a comprehension of trauma's complexities and its profound impact on individuals, families, and communities, she brings forth empathy, expertise, and unwavering commitment to her practice. As a clinician, Melissa is devoted to providing a personalized approach to therapy that emphasizes empathy, trust, and collaboration.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges and seeking support on your journey towards healing and personal growth? Melissa, therapist with Behind The Smile, PLLC, provides a welcoming sanctuary where the journey of healing commences and optimism is rekindled. With a comprehension of trauma's complexities and its profound impact on individuals, families, and communities, she brings forth empathy, expertise, and unwavering commitment to her practice. As a clinician, Melissa is devoted to providing a personalized approach to therapy that emphasizes empathy, trust, and collaboration.
(980) 575-1776 View (980) 575-1776
Photo of Alison Siepker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Siepker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
My name is Alison Siepker and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Jacksonville, NC, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and use a variety of therapy models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better
My name is Alison Siepker and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Jacksonville, NC, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and use a variety of therapy models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better
(980) 944-8755 View (980) 944-8755
Photo of Harrison Flood, LCMHCA, NCC
Harrison Flood
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Fear can cause us to sometimes forget everything and run, and you may be stuck wondering “why?”. However, we can also stand in our fears where we face everything and rise. If you are reading this, that means you are already taking the courageous steps to face that fear and you’re ready to rise above your current challenges and circumstances. You are brave for walking in that fear to seek help and I am here to support you in your healing journey. My clinical background includes working with young and older adults experiencing a range of different issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, relationship issues, and grief.
Fear can cause us to sometimes forget everything and run, and you may be stuck wondering “why?”. However, we can also stand in our fears where we face everything and rise. If you are reading this, that means you are already taking the courageous steps to face that fear and you’re ready to rise above your current challenges and circumstances. You are brave for walking in that fear to seek help and I am here to support you in your healing journey. My clinical background includes working with young and older adults experiencing a range of different issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, relationship issues, and grief.
(704) 754-5296 View (704) 754-5296
Photo of Chadwick Royal, LCMHC, Counselor
Chadwick Royal
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
My name is Dr. Chad Royal and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) based in Mebane, North Carolina and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently a Professor of Counseling and Chair of the Department of Counseling and Higher Education at North Carolina Central University. I work with individuals, couples, and families and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and partner/relationship problems.
My name is Dr. Chad Royal and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) based in Mebane, North Carolina and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently a Professor of Counseling and Chair of the Department of Counseling and Higher Education at North Carolina Central University. I work with individuals, couples, and families and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and partner/relationship problems.
(980) 303-5838 View (980) 303-5838
Photo of Andrea Symes, MSW, LCSW, CGCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Symes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CGCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
Recently I have been working with so many ladies who have been feeling like they are not worthy. As a result, many of my clients struggle with people-pleasing behaviors, anxiety, depression, and a feeling of brokenness. If that's you, just know you are not alone! If you desire to feel whole again, to stop worrying, and to start enjoying your life again, I'm here to help. I understand what you are going through as a result, I am offering a FREE 15-minute consultation. For a LIMITED time, qualified individuals may receive FREE sessions. Call me for more information. We are accepting new clients.
Recently I have been working with so many ladies who have been feeling like they are not worthy. As a result, many of my clients struggle with people-pleasing behaviors, anxiety, depression, and a feeling of brokenness. If that's you, just know you are not alone! If you desire to feel whole again, to stop worrying, and to start enjoying your life again, I'm here to help. I understand what you are going through as a result, I am offering a FREE 15-minute consultation. For a LIMITED time, qualified individuals may receive FREE sessions. Call me for more information. We are accepting new clients.
(980) 294-1034 View (980) 294-1034
Photo of DeNea Gibbs, LPC, LCMHC
DeNea Gibbs
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Trauma leaves us feeling shattered, hurt, and disconnected from who we truly are. You may be tired of feeling overwhelmed in everyday situations, distanced from friends who can’t comprehend your experience, or burdened by the weight of what occurred. Perhaps, these feelings have consumed you for so long that you can't even recall a time when you felt differently. Regardless, one thing is clear: you're seeking relief. You're yearning to cultivate meaningful relationships without the shadow of your past looming over you. You're eager to greet each day with a sense of purpose. Above all, you're longing to rediscover self-love and hope.
Trauma leaves us feeling shattered, hurt, and disconnected from who we truly are. You may be tired of feeling overwhelmed in everyday situations, distanced from friends who can’t comprehend your experience, or burdened by the weight of what occurred. Perhaps, these feelings have consumed you for so long that you can't even recall a time when you felt differently. Regardless, one thing is clear: you're seeking relief. You're yearning to cultivate meaningful relationships without the shadow of your past looming over you. You're eager to greet each day with a sense of purpose. Above all, you're longing to rediscover self-love and hope.
(980) 983-1585 View (980) 983-1585
Photo of Lemuel Rawls, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lemuel Rawls
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
Welcome! I'm Lemuel Congratulations on taking the first step towards bettering your mental health! Acknowledging that you aren’t living your best life is difficult, and seeking assistance in improving your quality of life requires honesty, bravery, and vulnerability. Your being here is a huge step in your personal development and should be commended!
Welcome! I'm Lemuel Congratulations on taking the first step towards bettering your mental health! Acknowledging that you aren’t living your best life is difficult, and seeking assistance in improving your quality of life requires honesty, bravery, and vulnerability. Your being here is a huge step in your personal development and should be commended!
(757) 731-4697 View (757) 731-4697
Photo of Jessica S Johnson, MACM, LCMHC, LPCC
Jessica S Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACM, LCMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Everyday life brings a variety of situations that can cause us to feel unsure. We can be left feeling mentally or emotionally exhausted. Like most of us you want to make positive changes in your life and improve your relationships, but you just don’t know how to effectively make it happen. I know what it’s like to feel stuck, trying to navigate the waters of life filled with anxiety, depression, self-sabotage, substance misuse, relationship issues, an existential or spiritual crisis, and more. You want to show up for yourself, but you just don’t know how. Which is why I’ve dedicated my life to helping people get unstuck .
Everyday life brings a variety of situations that can cause us to feel unsure. We can be left feeling mentally or emotionally exhausted. Like most of us you want to make positive changes in your life and improve your relationships, but you just don’t know how to effectively make it happen. I know what it’s like to feel stuck, trying to navigate the waters of life filled with anxiety, depression, self-sabotage, substance misuse, relationship issues, an existential or spiritual crisis, and more. You want to show up for yourself, but you just don’t know how. Which is why I’ve dedicated my life to helping people get unstuck .
(704) 810-2380 View (704) 810-2380
Photo of Theresa W McCormick-Dunlap, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa W McCormick-Dunlap
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Many today feel dis-empowered and overwhelmed by their own lives. Some seem to 'have it all together' while other struggle in their day-to-day existence. Some of are facing life changes while others are grappling with past issues. Either way I can help you gain insight into the factors that drive you and shape your world.
Many today feel dis-empowered and overwhelmed by their own lives. Some seem to 'have it all together' while other struggle in their day-to-day existence. Some of are facing life changes while others are grappling with past issues. Either way I can help you gain insight into the factors that drive you and shape your world.
(704) 228-7401 View (704) 228-7401
Photo of Kadi-Ann Wong, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kadi-Ann Wong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
Hello! My name is Kadi-Ann Wong. I work with men, woman & teens who struggle with low self esteem, trauma, divorce, depression and anxiety! Life is full of ups and downs. We ALL go through it. It's important to know that you're not alone. Your struggles and trauma do not define you. You can heal, move forward and still be the best versions of yourself! It would be a pleasure and honor to help you along that journey. I am here to help! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions for me! Blessings!
Hello! My name is Kadi-Ann Wong. I work with men, woman & teens who struggle with low self esteem, trauma, divorce, depression and anxiety! Life is full of ups and downs. We ALL go through it. It's important to know that you're not alone. Your struggles and trauma do not define you. You can heal, move forward and still be the best versions of yourself! It would be a pleasure and honor to help you along that journey. I am here to help! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions for me! Blessings!
(704) 703-3421 View (704) 703-3421
Photo of Megan Bryant, MS, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Megan Bryant
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
I strive to provide assistance to individuals who are looking to proactively and constructively manage life challenges and stressors, along with supporting them emotionally along their journey. I currently serve children, adolescents, adults, and families in need of coping skills to better manage mental and emotional distress caused by stress, life's transitions, traumatic experiences, and mental and emotional illness.
I strive to provide assistance to individuals who are looking to proactively and constructively manage life challenges and stressors, along with supporting them emotionally along their journey. I currently serve children, adolescents, adults, and families in need of coping skills to better manage mental and emotional distress caused by stress, life's transitions, traumatic experiences, and mental and emotional illness.
(704) 286-8234 View (704) 286-8234
Photo of Demetrius Hill, LCMHC, Counselor
Demetrius Hill
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
Hello. My name is Demetrius Hill. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, who is Fully Licensed. I obtained my Master’s Degree in Counseling from Webster University (2013) with an emphasis in mental health counseling. I have 34 years of experience in the Mental Health field providing services to children and adults and have found the experience to be very rewarding.
Hello. My name is Demetrius Hill. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, who is Fully Licensed. I obtained my Master’s Degree in Counseling from Webster University (2013) with an emphasis in mental health counseling. I have 34 years of experience in the Mental Health field providing services to children and adults and have found the experience to be very rewarding.
(980) 294-7691 View (980) 294-7691
Photo of Kenzie Mizell, MA, LMFT, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenzie Mizell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Relationships are hard and the struggles we experience can be complex. We don’t always understand or have the words to explain what's going on in our lives- but we know we aren't feeling how we want to. The traditional approach to therapy can be intimidating and at times, hard to understand. In my sessions, we will build our relationship with humor and compassion. I believe that everyone's problems are unique. I'm here to help guide you to discover the best ways to heal in your situation. I am passionate in helping couples, families and individuals heal through reframing and normalizing your conflicts while creating new experiences.
Relationships are hard and the struggles we experience can be complex. We don’t always understand or have the words to explain what's going on in our lives- but we know we aren't feeling how we want to. The traditional approach to therapy can be intimidating and at times, hard to understand. In my sessions, we will build our relationship with humor and compassion. I believe that everyone's problems are unique. I'm here to help guide you to discover the best ways to heal in your situation. I am passionate in helping couples, families and individuals heal through reframing and normalizing your conflicts while creating new experiences.
View
Photo of Misty Brown Pearson, LCMHC
Misty Brown Pearson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
I have been working in the Behavior and Mental Health Field since 2003. I attended Georgia Southern University, where I received a BS in Sociology with a Minor in Criminal Justice and continued to receive a Master’s in Education, Community Counseling. I am currently licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina. I have been fully licensed since 2012. I became certified as a Life Coach through The Tony Gaskins Life Coach Academy in 2020. I use a variety of therapeutic models as I believe no two people are exactly alike.
I have been working in the Behavior and Mental Health Field since 2003. I attended Georgia Southern University, where I received a BS in Sociology with a Minor in Criminal Justice and continued to receive a Master’s in Education, Community Counseling. I am currently licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina. I have been fully licensed since 2012. I became certified as a Life Coach through The Tony Gaskins Life Coach Academy in 2020. I use a variety of therapeutic models as I believe no two people are exactly alike.
(980) 300-7042 View (980) 300-7042
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28216

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 28216 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
93% Anxiety
74% Stress
72% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
60% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Aetna
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 28216 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28216?

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.