Therapists in Benton, AR

Photo of Angie Bates, MS MFT, LPC, LMFT, CSAT-c, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS MFT, LPC, LMFT, CSAT-c, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72019
Infidelity, sex addiction, communication struggles, and other relationships issues can wreak havoc with a couple, as well as individuals. I can help by providing support through individual, couple, and family sessions. I am a Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist (CSAT) candidate and work on treating the root causes of relationship issues, including addiction and trauma. Whether you are looking for healing, recovery, rebuilding, improvement, or support for you, your partner, or your family, we will work together to achieve your goals. I will meet you where you are on your journey as we work through your struggles together.
Infidelity, sex addiction, communication struggles, and other relationships issues can wreak havoc with a couple, as well as individuals. I can help by providing support through individual, couple, and family sessions. I am a Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist (CSAT) candidate and work on treating the root causes of relationship issues, including addiction and trauma. Whether you are looking for healing, recovery, rebuilding, improvement, or support for you, your partner, or your family, we will work together to achieve your goals. I will meet you where you are on your journey as we work through your struggles together.
(501) 300-2821 View (501) 300-2821
Photo of Cristal T Ellis, LAC, Counselor
Cristal T Ellis
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
Hi, my name is Cristal. I specialize in trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. I'm here to provide a safe space for your growth, healing, and recovery by utilizing Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Person-Centered approaches. If you have been feeling ungrounded and searching for a sense of purpose, direction and wanting to regain control of your life, then I can help you.
Hi, my name is Cristal. I specialize in trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. I'm here to provide a safe space for your growth, healing, and recovery by utilizing Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Person-Centered approaches. If you have been feeling ungrounded and searching for a sense of purpose, direction and wanting to regain control of your life, then I can help you.
(501) 588-7806 View (501) 588-7806
Photo of Brandi Alcacio, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi Alcacio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72019
Mental health challenges affect us all and I firmly believe that access to help shouldn't be a barrier. Whether you have childhood trauma, relationship issues, struggle with anxiety or depression (postpartum or not), or simply need a listening ear or sounding board to help you through a difficult time, I'm trained to assist with a myriad of daily and long-term issues. I work well with youth and adults and take most major insurances, including Medicaid, to ensure access to affordable, effective care for all. I also actively seek out trainings to hone my skills often to better serve you!
Mental health challenges affect us all and I firmly believe that access to help shouldn't be a barrier. Whether you have childhood trauma, relationship issues, struggle with anxiety or depression (postpartum or not), or simply need a listening ear or sounding board to help you through a difficult time, I'm trained to assist with a myriad of daily and long-term issues. I work well with youth and adults and take most major insurances, including Medicaid, to ensure access to affordable, effective care for all. I also actively seek out trainings to hone my skills often to better serve you!
(501) 530-9546 View (501) 530-9546
Photo of Shannon J Gachot-Ridgley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon J Gachot-Ridgley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
If you are looking at this page you are taking the first brave step toward help. Distress is not a choice, but getting help is. I believe that therapy is about change, hope and reconnection. Often times devastation of betrayal, abandonment, divorce, disease, or death can change you instantly. Your struggle is part of your story and I want to hear it. Perhaps anger, depression and anxiety are constant companions. Sometimes others only see what we allow them to see and that is just the tip of the iceberg, the real pain and emotions are below the surface. Past trauma or current stressful life situations can make us feel stuck.
If you are looking at this page you are taking the first brave step toward help. Distress is not a choice, but getting help is. I believe that therapy is about change, hope and reconnection. Often times devastation of betrayal, abandonment, divorce, disease, or death can change you instantly. Your struggle is part of your story and I want to hear it. Perhaps anger, depression and anxiety are constant companions. Sometimes others only see what we allow them to see and that is just the tip of the iceberg, the real pain and emotions are below the surface. Past trauma or current stressful life situations can make us feel stuck.
(501) 510-6057 x501326 View (501) 510-6057 x501326
Photo of LaQuita Norris, LCSW, CCM, CCTP, EMDR-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaQuita Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM, CCTP, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with depression, have unaddressed trauma, or are you anxious all the time? Are you seeing a pattern of unhealthy relationships in your life and would like to change that? Are you struggling with your identity or feel like an imposter? Do you feel like your life is spiraling out of control and want to see things get back on track? I'm the owner of Gateway Family Therapy Services and I specialize in helping individuals and couples find the gateway to healing, wholeness, and happiness.
Are you struggling with depression, have unaddressed trauma, or are you anxious all the time? Are you seeing a pattern of unhealthy relationships in your life and would like to change that? Are you struggling with your identity or feel like an imposter? Do you feel like your life is spiraling out of control and want to see things get back on track? I'm the owner of Gateway Family Therapy Services and I specialize in helping individuals and couples find the gateway to healing, wholeness, and happiness.
(501) 732-7357 View (501) 732-7357
Photo of Katherine Woodworth, LPC, CRC, ICCDP-D, CCDP-D, DCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Woodworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, ICCDP-D, CCDP-D, DCC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
I believe clients DESERVE to be treated fairly and honestly. I prefer to work with my clients to help them achieve the life of their choosing, not my choosing. We all have an idea of what we want in life and how we want our lives to be, "our ultimate goal". Many times in life we experience obstacles and challenges which can interfere with us reaching that goal and making the most out of life. We will work together to help you achieve "YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL"!!!
I believe clients DESERVE to be treated fairly and honestly. I prefer to work with my clients to help them achieve the life of their choosing, not my choosing. We all have an idea of what we want in life and how we want our lives to be, "our ultimate goal". Many times in life we experience obstacles and challenges which can interfere with us reaching that goal and making the most out of life. We will work together to help you achieve "YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL"!!!
(501) 458-4343 View (501) 458-4343
Photo of Dr. Jj LaMaster, EdD, LPC, DCC, EMDR-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jj LaMaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, DCC, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72019  (Online Only)
Do you find it difficult to handle your emotions? You've taken the first step towards healing, let me guide you through the others in a safe and relaxing environment. Together, we will process what is holding you back and I will assist you in learning how to enjoy life again. We are a team in this journey. I offer technology assisted sessions so you can experience therapy in YOUR environment, which prompts more healing!
Do you find it difficult to handle your emotions? You've taken the first step towards healing, let me guide you through the others in a safe and relaxing environment. Together, we will process what is holding you back and I will assist you in learning how to enjoy life again. We are a team in this journey. I offer technology assisted sessions so you can experience therapy in YOUR environment, which prompts more healing!
(501) 697-4993 View (501) 697-4993
Photo of Finola Buckley, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Finola Buckley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
Counseling is beneficial for anybody, even if you just need someone to talk to about stressors. To be honest, life be "life-ing!" Fear is an intense emotion that paralyzes and influences inactivity and sometimes we just get STUCK! We are continuing to become who we are everyday and at times we just are not okay. I'm ready to listen when your ready to share
Counseling is beneficial for anybody, even if you just need someone to talk to about stressors. To be honest, life be "life-ing!" Fear is an intense emotion that paralyzes and influences inactivity and sometimes we just get STUCK! We are continuing to become who we are everyday and at times we just are not okay. I'm ready to listen when your ready to share
(501) 602-7760 View (501) 602-7760
Photo of Briana Harrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
Are you or your child struggling with depression, making relationships work, or worrying all the time? Do you feel like an imposter despite your accomplishments? Are you trying your best as a parent but you still feel like a failure? Do you feel unheard or unseen by others in your life? Do you have a child struggling with bullying, anxiety or behavioral problems?
Are you or your child struggling with depression, making relationships work, or worrying all the time? Do you feel like an imposter despite your accomplishments? Are you trying your best as a parent but you still feel like a failure? Do you feel unheard or unseen by others in your life? Do you have a child struggling with bullying, anxiety or behavioral problems?
(501) 501-4101 View (501) 501-4101
Photo of Janice J Suskey, MEd, EdS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Janice J Suskey
Counselor, MEd, EdS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015  (Online Only)
Tired of doing the same thing again and again expecting different results? How do you get off the treadmill towards a life that works for you? Relationship difficulties are my specialty. Learn to step off the path of ineffective communication to discovering communication that is heard by your significant other. At this time, I am offering telehealth sessions only via a HIPPA certified, confidential platform called SimplePractice. The app can be downloaded on any device on which you would like to use for sessions. I am seeing Florida and Arkansas residents.
Tired of doing the same thing again and again expecting different results? How do you get off the treadmill towards a life that works for you? Relationship difficulties are my specialty. Learn to step off the path of ineffective communication to discovering communication that is heard by your significant other. At this time, I am offering telehealth sessions only via a HIPPA certified, confidential platform called SimplePractice. The app can be downloaded on any device on which you would like to use for sessions. I am seeing Florida and Arkansas residents.
(386) 742-4739 View (386) 742-4739
Photo of LaEartha Soko, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaEartha Soko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
I am an LPC with over 10 years of experience in mental health counseling. I have worked in outpatient sectors with various populations in the capacity of individual, couple, and family therapy. I have experience with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, family/relational conflict, suicide, and grief. I utilized a Person-Centered approach that encompasses a holistic, team-oriented, and integrative modality of treatment that best fits the needs of my clients. I am here to be a guide in your journey to being the best version of yourself. Let’s foster your healing together.
I am an LPC with over 10 years of experience in mental health counseling. I have worked in outpatient sectors with various populations in the capacity of individual, couple, and family therapy. I have experience with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, family/relational conflict, suicide, and grief. I utilized a Person-Centered approach that encompasses a holistic, team-oriented, and integrative modality of treatment that best fits the needs of my clients. I am here to be a guide in your journey to being the best version of yourself. Let’s foster your healing together.
(501) 356-4968 View (501) 356-4968
Photo of Lauren Johnson - Moonlight Mental Health, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moonlight Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
At Moonlight Mental Health, we offer a safe and nurturing environment to help you find your path out of the dark. We aid clients in developing tools with evidence based practices, compassion and understanding, to help them work through challenges and create meaning and joy in their journey through life. We have six therapists, between our two locations, who are passionate about their client's growth and are all experienced in different types of therapeutic practices that have helped hundreds of clients succeed over the past decade. Don't delay your potential, contact us-we love to help in any way we can.
At Moonlight Mental Health, we offer a safe and nurturing environment to help you find your path out of the dark. We aid clients in developing tools with evidence based practices, compassion and understanding, to help them work through challenges and create meaning and joy in their journey through life. We have six therapists, between our two locations, who are passionate about their client's growth and are all experienced in different types of therapeutic practices that have helped hundreds of clients succeed over the past decade. Don't delay your potential, contact us-we love to help in any way we can.
(501) 302-4307 View (501) 302-4307
Photo of Mike Juola - Reach Behavioral Health - Mike Juola, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reach Behavioral Health - Mike Juola, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72019
I am a person-centered therapist focused on meeting my clients as they are with unconditional positive regard and active listening. As your counselor, my job is to meet you just as you are. We can explore your life's journey together. When we reach a block or problem along your way, I consider it a therapeutic door. It's not my door to open -you actually hold the key- and I'm here with the skilled support to help my clients experience growth, progress, and emotional wellness.
I am a person-centered therapist focused on meeting my clients as they are with unconditional positive regard and active listening. As your counselor, my job is to meet you just as you are. We can explore your life's journey together. When we reach a block or problem along your way, I consider it a therapeutic door. It's not my door to open -you actually hold the key- and I'm here with the skilled support to help my clients experience growth, progress, and emotional wellness.
(501) 300-8851 View (501) 300-8851
Photo of Rosemary L Burns - Meridiem Psychological Services, Inc., MA, LPE-I, LPC, NCC
Meridiem Psychological Services, Inc.
MA, LPE-I, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
I have been working in the mental health field since 2002. I have been nationally certified since 2004. I am EMDR certified, EMDRIA approved Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. I use a trauma-focused approach to treatment because it is a very holistic approach to care (body, mind, and emotional reactions to stress). I prefer to work with adolescents and adults in therapy services. I also offer consultation services for therapists and other mental health providers. I received my credential to be an EMDR trainier on 9/12/2023 and offer both online and in-person trainings.
I have been working in the mental health field since 2002. I have been nationally certified since 2004. I am EMDR certified, EMDRIA approved Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. I use a trauma-focused approach to treatment because it is a very holistic approach to care (body, mind, and emotional reactions to stress). I prefer to work with adolescents and adults in therapy services. I also offer consultation services for therapists and other mental health providers. I received my credential to be an EMDR trainier on 9/12/2023 and offer both online and in-person trainings.
(501) 232-2717 View (501) 232-2717
Photo of Jeannie Fetting, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeannie Fetting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
I am NOT taking new clients at this time. Stop the Pain. Do you worry that others can see that you are barely hanging on despite your best efforts? Sometimes accomplished people feel they are crumbling under the strain of expectations they have for themselves. You do not need to feel this way. Depression, anxiety and chronic pain do not have to control every waking minute of your life. There is help and hope.
I am NOT taking new clients at this time. Stop the Pain. Do you worry that others can see that you are barely hanging on despite your best efforts? Sometimes accomplished people feel they are crumbling under the strain of expectations they have for themselves. You do not need to feel this way. Depression, anxiety and chronic pain do not have to control every waking minute of your life. There is help and hope.
(501) 725-6457 View (501) 725-6457
Photo of John M Ray, PhD, Psychologist
John M Ray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
It can be difficult to balance all the needs and demands of life, as well as those of people you love and care for, while still taking care of yourself. Circumstances can be made even more difficult when a person is dealt a major setback in the form of depression, anxiety, family or work stress, or a traumatic experience. The good news is that each of us has the strength and courage necessary to overcome even the most challenging obstacles. Sometimes we just need some help to realize our strengths and then put together a plan to make the most of them.
It can be difficult to balance all the needs and demands of life, as well as those of people you love and care for, while still taking care of yourself. Circumstances can be made even more difficult when a person is dealt a major setback in the form of depression, anxiety, family or work stress, or a traumatic experience. The good news is that each of us has the strength and courage necessary to overcome even the most challenging obstacles. Sometimes we just need some help to realize our strengths and then put together a plan to make the most of them.
(501) 404-2714 View (501) 404-2714
Photo of Leslie J. Chesshir, LCSW, MSW, LMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie J. Chesshir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LMT
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
Not accepting new clients
Thank You for your interest in my practice and taking the first step to healing and wellness. I specialize in assisting others with healing from the effects of Trauma and Eating Disorders while honoring the mind/body connection that is essential for recovery. I believe that each individual, family, and community can heal from trauma, and other associated issues, to reach our full potential and live a valued, meaningful life. Visit my website at: risinglotustherapyar.com for more information.
Thank You for your interest in my practice and taking the first step to healing and wellness. I specialize in assisting others with healing from the effects of Trauma and Eating Disorders while honoring the mind/body connection that is essential for recovery. I believe that each individual, family, and community can heal from trauma, and other associated issues, to reach our full potential and live a valued, meaningful life. Visit my website at: risinglotustherapyar.com for more information.
(501) 575-1460 View (501) 575-1460
Photo of Heather Ramsay, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Ramsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
If you are someone who experienced a difficult childhood/early adulthood, I can probably guess a bit about you. You’re painfully hard on yourself…You feel like you are going crazy…You feel like you can’t trust yourself or anyone else and you wonder when those sleepless nights will ever end. There is another way! You can start to believe that you are ENOUGH and you MATTER! My 'heartbeat' is to guide women to find emotional freedom!
If you are someone who experienced a difficult childhood/early adulthood, I can probably guess a bit about you. You’re painfully hard on yourself…You feel like you are going crazy…You feel like you can’t trust yourself or anyone else and you wonder when those sleepless nights will ever end. There is another way! You can start to believe that you are ENOUGH and you MATTER! My 'heartbeat' is to guide women to find emotional freedom!
(870) 568-0832 View (870) 568-0832
Photo of Karen Rineheart, LPE-I
Karen Rineheart
LPE-I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
There was a time in each of our lives, before hurt and fear took over, when our hearts were whole. For some of us, the pain is new and unfamiliar. For others, it’s been there as long as we can remember. For my clients, it’s something that they’ve decided to stop running from and to face it head-on. Whether you’re an individual picking up the pieces of a broken heart, or a couple or family trying to keep your world from falling apart, I’m ready to help you conquer your past. I can help you regain emotional control to breath and feel present and whole again.
There was a time in each of our lives, before hurt and fear took over, when our hearts were whole. For some of us, the pain is new and unfamiliar. For others, it’s been there as long as we can remember. For my clients, it’s something that they’ve decided to stop running from and to face it head-on. Whether you’re an individual picking up the pieces of a broken heart, or a couple or family trying to keep your world from falling apart, I’m ready to help you conquer your past. I can help you regain emotional control to breath and feel present and whole again.
(501) 443-0838 View (501) 443-0838
Photo of Marcela Johnston, PhD, Psychologist
Marcela Johnston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
As a psychologist, I help people change the thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that interfere with their physical and psychological health. As individuals begin to examine their feelings and attitudes and develop more effective patterns of behavior, they begin to feel happier and more content with their lives. Each individual, couple or family is provided with a supportive environment to talk openly about concerns, solve problems and achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle as quickly as possible.
As a psychologist, I help people change the thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that interfere with their physical and psychological health. As individuals begin to examine their feelings and attitudes and develop more effective patterns of behavior, they begin to feel happier and more content with their lives. Each individual, couple or family is provided with a supportive environment to talk openly about concerns, solve problems and achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle as quickly as possible.
(501) 588-8029 View (501) 588-8029

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Benton, AR

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Benton, AR who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Trauma and PTSD
79% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
75% Coping Skills
75% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Ambetter
70% Health Advantage

How Therapists in Benton, AR see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Benton?

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.