Photo of Dr. Gloria M. Lanoux Phd, PhD, D-MFT, LPC, NCC, LPN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Gloria M. Lanoux Phd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, D-MFT, LPC, NCC, LPN
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056
I have the knowledge, wisdom, experience and professionalism to help you with your problems. Ask yourself what will it take to lessen the pain you are experiencing. I can help! Now, ask yourself what makes you feel alive, content and happy? Recognize that working together we can change your desires into realities. I approach psycho-therapeutic counseling in a holistic fashion. I have great successes in assisting patients to cope with anxiety and depression, the traumas of abuse, teen-age cutters, divorce, death/loss, self-injury and debilitating physical injuries. My style of psychotherapy is more than just emotional support.
I have the knowledge, wisdom, experience and professionalism to help you with your problems. Ask yourself what will it take to lessen the pain you are experiencing. I can help! Now, ask yourself what makes you feel alive, content and happy? Recognize that working together we can change your desires into realities. I approach psycho-therapeutic counseling in a holistic fashion. I have great successes in assisting patients to cope with anxiety and depression, the traumas of abuse, teen-age cutters, divorce, death/loss, self-injury and debilitating physical injuries. My style of psychotherapy is more than just emotional support.
(504) 667-5775 View (504) 667-5775
Photo of Elaine J Lane, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaine J Lane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Terrytown, LA 70056
My treatment approach is to help clients gain insight and increase awareness in those areas of their lives that most need attention. Clients learn to identify the unconscious forces holding them back from being all that they are intended to be and to challenge and eventually replace the self-destructive beliefs and messages that have guided their thoughts, feelings and behavior. I help clients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
My treatment approach is to help clients gain insight and increase awareness in those areas of their lives that most need attention. Clients learn to identify the unconscious forces holding them back from being all that they are intended to be and to challenge and eventually replace the self-destructive beliefs and messages that have guided their thoughts, feelings and behavior. I help clients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
(504) 383-5908 View (504) 383-5908
Photo of Melva M. Young - Melva M. Young, LPC-S, NCC, LPC-S, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melva M. Young, LPC-S, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Terrytown, LA 70056
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, worried, or depressed? Are you feeling sad, angry, abandoned, or rejected? Have you made choices that were not in your best interest? Whether you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, anxious, afraid, dealing with trauma-issues, fear, self-defeating behaviors, or self-sabotage, I will work with you to understand the origin of your issues. We will form an alliance to examine and change, the patterns or obstacles preventing you from living the balanced, healthy, authentic life that you deserve. We will work with your strengths to form effective strategies to help you be the author of the life you desire.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, worried, or depressed? Are you feeling sad, angry, abandoned, or rejected? Have you made choices that were not in your best interest? Whether you are feeling sad, overwhelmed, anxious, afraid, dealing with trauma-issues, fear, self-defeating behaviors, or self-sabotage, I will work with you to understand the origin of your issues. We will form an alliance to examine and change, the patterns or obstacles preventing you from living the balanced, healthy, authentic life that you deserve. We will work with your strengths to form effective strategies to help you be the author of the life you desire.
(504) 414-7893 View (504) 414-7893
Photo of Sudeeptha Bowie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sudeeptha Bowie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Terrytown, LA 70056
I am a licensed social worker with over twenty years of experience in counseling diverse groups of people. I take a holistic approach to counseling including; cognitive/behavioral , analytical, and goal/solution oriented models. We provide a private, safe, trusting, compassionate, and respectful atmosphere. I am passionate about a goal oriented practical approach to bring about positive change. Take that first step; call or email me for an appointment, free consult or more information. I will contact you within 24 hrs. 504-250-3337. ssdl@live.com Thank you for your consideration.
I am a licensed social worker with over twenty years of experience in counseling diverse groups of people. I take a holistic approach to counseling including; cognitive/behavioral , analytical, and goal/solution oriented models. We provide a private, safe, trusting, compassionate, and respectful atmosphere. I am passionate about a goal oriented practical approach to bring about positive change. Take that first step; call or email me for an appointment, free consult or more information. I will contact you within 24 hrs. 504-250-3337. ssdl@live.com Thank you for your consideration.
(504) 290-0750 View (504) 290-0750
Photo of Madelynn Fellon, LPC-S, LMFT-SC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madelynn Fellon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT-SC, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Terrytown, LA 70056
It is very brave of you and your family to seek a counselor to make the improvements needed for your lives. It is the intention to create a judgement free zone so that, together, we can collaborate and explore any concerns or issues that have been set in front of you. I see counseling as teamwork so we can achieve what you are searching for. With collaboration, we will work towards the goals you have set for yourself or your relationship, or even assist in helping you to set them if you are not sure where to start.
It is very brave of you and your family to seek a counselor to make the improvements needed for your lives. It is the intention to create a judgement free zone so that, together, we can collaborate and explore any concerns or issues that have been set in front of you. I see counseling as teamwork so we can achieve what you are searching for. With collaboration, we will work towards the goals you have set for yourself or your relationship, or even assist in helping you to set them if you are not sure where to start.
(504) 370-4154 View (504) 370-4154
Photo of Michael G Frederick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael G Frederick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gretna, LA 70056
I have over 20 years of experience providing individual, group and family therapy to adults as well as adolescents. I have worked in a variety of settings and use several different therapeutic techniques. I believe in a highly individualized, solution focused treatment approach to help you identify issues which may be preventing your living the life you want, and help you identify the life changes needed to reach life goals long thought unattainable!
I have over 20 years of experience providing individual, group and family therapy to adults as well as adolescents. I have worked in a variety of settings and use several different therapeutic techniques. I believe in a highly individualized, solution focused treatment approach to help you identify issues which may be preventing your living the life you want, and help you identify the life changes needed to reach life goals long thought unattainable!
(504) 315-1778 View (504) 315-1778
Photo of Charles Strong III, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Strong III
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056  (Online Only)
Are you feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, anxious, or generally not your best you? Have you experienced difficulty navigating through hard times and sorting through your own thoughts? Allow me to assist in establishing and maintaining a safe space of comfort, without judgment, to find your balance. I support clients in processing the obstacles they face, challenging and strengthening them to identify hidden resources and reflect upon past successes to adapt and grow going forward.
Are you feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, anxious, or generally not your best you? Have you experienced difficulty navigating through hard times and sorting through your own thoughts? Allow me to assist in establishing and maintaining a safe space of comfort, without judgment, to find your balance. I support clients in processing the obstacles they face, challenging and strengthening them to identify hidden resources and reflect upon past successes to adapt and grow going forward.
(504) 370-9106 View (504) 370-9106
Photo of Phyllis Jackson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phyllis Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gretna, LA 70056
Life gets hard and we ALL go through it. People sometimes find themselves in a rut and need help digging themselves out. Finding understanding, empathy, and support during those difficult times can be tough. I am passionate about helping others heal, grow, and reach their goals in a safe space without judgment. You are not alone!
Life gets hard and we ALL go through it. People sometimes find themselves in a rut and need help digging themselves out. Finding understanding, empathy, and support during those difficult times can be tough. I am passionate about helping others heal, grow, and reach their goals in a safe space without judgment. You are not alone!
(504) 547-6553 View (504) 547-6553
Photo of Maureen Dombourian, LCSW, EMDR, Cert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen Dombourian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, Cert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gretna, LA 70056
I have 20 years experience working with adults, children, and families. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive/behavioral therapy, insight oriented treatment, and solution focused counseling. I am also EMDR certified which helps clients to process trauma memories and often helps when a client feels "stuck" in a particular phase of therapy. I have worked as an Early Intervention Specialist in the school system for 19 years. I have extensive training in play therapy, using both directive and non-directive techniques
I have 20 years experience working with adults, children, and families. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive/behavioral therapy, insight oriented treatment, and solution focused counseling. I am also EMDR certified which helps clients to process trauma memories and often helps when a client feels "stuck" in a particular phase of therapy. I have worked as an Early Intervention Specialist in the school system for 19 years. I have extensive training in play therapy, using both directive and non-directive techniques
(504) 684-5348 View (504) 684-5348
Photo of Blair Boggs, MSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blair Boggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056  (Online Only)
Looking for help in these stressful times? Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Grieving from loss or isolation due to the pandemic? Trouble regulating emotions? Difficulty setting boundaries? I would love the opportunity to meet and discuss goals that you would like to achieve. I am a very open, warm, inviting person with zero judgement. I am trauma informed in my practice.
Looking for help in these stressful times? Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Grieving from loss or isolation due to the pandemic? Trouble regulating emotions? Difficulty setting boundaries? I would love the opportunity to meet and discuss goals that you would like to achieve. I am a very open, warm, inviting person with zero judgement. I am trauma informed in my practice.
(504) 677-8423 View (504) 677-8423
Photo of Keshia Weaver, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keshia Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Keshia Weaver, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental, emotional, and behavioral health. With extensive experience in crisis counseling, trauma-informed therapy, and community outreach, I have dedicated my career to supporting clients in their journey toward healing and growth. Let's work together to create the life you deserve.
Welcome! I'm Keshia Weaver, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental, emotional, and behavioral health. With extensive experience in crisis counseling, trauma-informed therapy, and community outreach, I have dedicated my career to supporting clients in their journey toward healing and growth. Let's work together to create the life you deserve.
(504) 500-4393 View (504) 500-4393
Photo of Kimberly Marie Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Marie Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist in private practice. By far, we are destined to change. I am seeking clients who are ready to build something new in order to change something old. I am ready to help you jump start your life transformation. With utilizing various evidence based practices, I will be able to help you refocus and reconnect with yourself despite life adversities. Another successful key part to my approach is helping clients build resilience in the face of a problem. My goal is to meet clients where they and provide tools to help them on a positive path to growth and wellbeing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist in private practice. By far, we are destined to change. I am seeking clients who are ready to build something new in order to change something old. I am ready to help you jump start your life transformation. With utilizing various evidence based practices, I will be able to help you refocus and reconnect with yourself despite life adversities. Another successful key part to my approach is helping clients build resilience in the face of a problem. My goal is to meet clients where they and provide tools to help them on a positive path to growth and wellbeing.
(504) 608-0796 View (504) 608-0796
Photo of Ebony R Evans - Blossoming Minds , LPC-S, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blossoming Minds
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056
As a hard working individual, stressed out and anxious have become your new normal. Every morning, you put on a brave face and smile as you step onto the corporate battle field. There are times that you fly off the handle over the simplest things, and yet can't explain why something so small would get you so bent out of shape. Day by day, the irritation seems to be tightening its grasp. You find yourself losing sleep, wondering if you left any tasks undone. It's becoming impossible to enjoy the activities you love because you are such a tightly wound ball of nerves. Work-life balance is starting to sound like a fairy tale.
As a hard working individual, stressed out and anxious have become your new normal. Every morning, you put on a brave face and smile as you step onto the corporate battle field. There are times that you fly off the handle over the simplest things, and yet can't explain why something so small would get you so bent out of shape. Day by day, the irritation seems to be tightening its grasp. You find yourself losing sleep, wondering if you left any tasks undone. It's becoming impossible to enjoy the activities you love because you are such a tightly wound ball of nerves. Work-life balance is starting to sound like a fairy tale.
(504) 370-9608 View (504) 370-9608
Photo of Lexus Andry, MEd, PLPC, NCC
Lexus Andry
MEd, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gretna, LA 70056  (Online Only)
My virtual practice focuses on helping adults of various cultural backgrounds who may have difficulties adjusting to life transitions or related to their role as a primary caregiver. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, and adjustment problems.
My virtual practice focuses on helping adults of various cultural backgrounds who may have difficulties adjusting to life transitions or related to their role as a primary caregiver. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, and adjustment problems.
(504) 827-3974 View (504) 827-3974
Photo of Unique Benoit, MA, P-LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Unique Benoit
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, P-LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Terrytown, LA 70056
With four years of experience as a dedicated school counselor, I specialize in providing support to adolescents aged 6-15. I aim to empower them to recognize their triggers and effectively communicate their needs.
With four years of experience as a dedicated school counselor, I specialize in providing support to adolescents aged 6-15. I aim to empower them to recognize their triggers and effectively communicate their needs.
(504) 399-0476 View (504) 399-0476
Photo of Laura Jaen Garcia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Jaen Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Terrytown, LA 70056
Implementing therapy into your life is one of the many ways you can improve and better your life mentally, emotionally, and physically. I am a bilingual social worker who provides therapy to those who may be experiencing conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. If you are looking for ways to manage the stress of every day life, therapy may be the first step to emotional freedom. We are all often burdened with stress, but ultimately, how we react to the stress is what impacts us most. Regaining some control over your emotions and distress may bring some peace to your life.
Implementing therapy into your life is one of the many ways you can improve and better your life mentally, emotionally, and physically. I am a bilingual social worker who provides therapy to those who may be experiencing conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. If you are looking for ways to manage the stress of every day life, therapy may be the first step to emotional freedom. We are all often burdened with stress, but ultimately, how we react to the stress is what impacts us most. Regaining some control over your emotions and distress may bring some peace to your life.
(504) 608-7356 View (504) 608-7356
Photo of Dr. Wellington John Coleman Jr - Insight Professional Counseling Services LLC, PhD, MSN, M Ed, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Insight Professional Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MSN, M Ed, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Terrytown, LA 70056
I have had the opportunity to work in the medical profession prior to my working as a therpaist. I worked as a nurse in many disciplines and particularly psychiatry, learning how to treat mental health issues at the extreme of the mental health disorders. I am now working as an independent therpist and have worked primarily in the field of chemical dependency treatment and am presently treating clients in my private practice with diagnoses of chemical dependency, anxiety, depression, and other issues with mental health. I prefer to work collaratively with clients where we, together develop a plan of care for the client's goals.
I have had the opportunity to work in the medical profession prior to my working as a therpaist. I worked as a nurse in many disciplines and particularly psychiatry, learning how to treat mental health issues at the extreme of the mental health disorders. I am now working as an independent therpist and have worked primarily in the field of chemical dependency treatment and am presently treating clients in my private practice with diagnoses of chemical dependency, anxiety, depression, and other issues with mental health. I prefer to work collaratively with clients where we, together develop a plan of care for the client's goals.
(504) 527-8048 View (504) 527-8048
Photo of Naomi Dugar - New Orleans Multicultural Institute of Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
New Orleans Multicultural Institute of Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gretna, LA 70056
Dr. Hernandez & Mrs. Dugar thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to view our profile! Choosing to seek therapy of any form is never an easy decision, but it's a step in the right direction. The choice of choosing a counselor is an important one, but the relationship is even greater. Counseling is a journey between you and the counselor. You are the pilot and your counselor is your co-pilot. Let me be your co-pilot! Therapy provides the opportunity for growth and change,and moving forward a better understanding of the self.
Dr. Hernandez & Mrs. Dugar thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to view our profile! Choosing to seek therapy of any form is never an easy decision, but it's a step in the right direction. The choice of choosing a counselor is an important one, but the relationship is even greater. Counseling is a journey between you and the counselor. You are the pilot and your counselor is your co-pilot. Let me be your co-pilot! Therapy provides the opportunity for growth and change,and moving forward a better understanding of the self.
(504) 814-4480 View (504) 814-4480
Photo of Dr. Stephanie B. Lester Haywood, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Stephanie B. Lester Haywood
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gretna, LA 70056
I opened Center For Therapeutic Change, LLC., to help clients learn the skills required to maximize the overall joy in their lives. I truly believe everyone wants better for themselves and their families, they just feel stuck now and then in the process. If you want a counselor who will walk with you every step of the way, I'm your girl. Call me now, so the healing can begin.
I opened Center For Therapeutic Change, LLC., to help clients learn the skills required to maximize the overall joy in their lives. I truly believe everyone wants better for themselves and their families, they just feel stuck now and then in the process. If you want a counselor who will walk with you every step of the way, I'm your girl. Call me now, so the healing can begin.
(504) 784-6498 View (504) 784-6498
Photo of @ Darius - Anjali Healing Arts, LLC, MA, MHP, RYT-500
Anjali Healing Arts, LLC
MA, MHP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056
How you see yourself might be deeply influenced by the emotional distress, negative thought patterns, or destructive and addictive behaviors you struggle with. As a Holistic Health Practitioner, I believe these conditions cover up, rather than define, who you truly are. My unique approach to holistic health and wellness encourages a balanced integration of the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of your wellbeing. I'd like to support you in creating optimal conditions for the safe, mindful, and deep exploration of your innate capacity for self-healing and radical transformation.
How you see yourself might be deeply influenced by the emotional distress, negative thought patterns, or destructive and addictive behaviors you struggle with. As a Holistic Health Practitioner, I believe these conditions cover up, rather than define, who you truly are. My unique approach to holistic health and wellness encourages a balanced integration of the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of your wellbeing. I'd like to support you in creating optimal conditions for the safe, mindful, and deep exploration of your innate capacity for self-healing and radical transformation.
(504) 882-9581 View (504) 882-9581
1

See more therapy options for 70056

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 70056

30+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in 70056 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Depression
80% Coping Skills
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Self Esteem
66% Relationship Issues
66% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 70056 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 70056?

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.