Therapists in Johnston, IA

Photo of Keri Clark - Counseling Insights, LLC, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Insights, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Waitlist for new clients
If you or a loved one is struggling with grief, trauma, life changes, and/or anxiety, want to gain better understanding of self, others, and environment, and appreciate a down-to-earth, tailored to you, therapeutic approach, I would be honored to be a part of your wellness journey.
If you or a loved one is struggling with grief, trauma, life changes, and/or anxiety, want to gain better understanding of self, others, and environment, and appreciate a down-to-earth, tailored to you, therapeutic approach, I would be honored to be a part of your wellness journey.
(515) 585-1034 View (515) 585-1034
Photo of Charlie Saunders, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charlie Saunders
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) who especially enjoys helping clients find, accept, and appreciate who they are by identifying and celebrating their strengths. I strive to create a space without judgment where clients are free to be their authentic selves - to feel, process, grieve, and celebrate together in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In this spirit, I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and their life experience, and that this expertise can and should be used in therapy alongside a my professional knowledge and skills.
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) who especially enjoys helping clients find, accept, and appreciate who they are by identifying and celebrating their strengths. I strive to create a space without judgment where clients are free to be their authentic selves - to feel, process, grieve, and celebrate together in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In this spirit, I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and their life experience, and that this expertise can and should be used in therapy alongside a my professional knowledge and skills.
(515) 709-4784 View (515) 709-4784
Photo of Jade Dilliner, tLMHC, Counselor
Jade Dilliner
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, so you will find that my office consists of many toys and games. I also spend a lot of time at the gym, so I like to advocate for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Incorporating physical movement in session can be beneficial especially when working with children, but it is not required.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, so you will find that my office consists of many toys and games. I also spend a lot of time at the gym, so I like to advocate for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Incorporating physical movement in session can be beneficial especially when working with children, but it is not required.
(515) 474-7640 View (515) 474-7640
Photo of Terry Smith, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Terry Smith
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
We all have times in our lives when we could use a supportive place to explore life’s challenges. I recognize the difficulty of taking the first steps toward making change and I am here to support you. I look forward to providing a safe, supportive space for you as you determine your path and begin to take the steps toward your goals. I have spent my career working with individuals through the process of change. I have worked with adolescents and adults coping with depression and anxiety, substance use disorders, grief & loss, career counseling, parenting, relationship stress, life transitions and disabilities.
We all have times in our lives when we could use a supportive place to explore life’s challenges. I recognize the difficulty of taking the first steps toward making change and I am here to support you. I look forward to providing a safe, supportive space for you as you determine your path and begin to take the steps toward your goals. I have spent my career working with individuals through the process of change. I have worked with adolescents and adults coping with depression and anxiety, substance use disorders, grief & loss, career counseling, parenting, relationship stress, life transitions and disabilities.
(515) 220-2842 View (515) 220-2842
Photo of Sarah Price, BSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
Do you feel stuck or unhappy? Do you wonder why everyone seems to have it all together but you don’t? Do you want to stop living in fear and better yourself? Taking the steps to take control of your life is an act of bravery and self-love. We all get one life on this earth, it is up to us to make the most of it. I have been working as a therapist for over 10 years helping adults and adolescents make small changes that with time lead to big results. My specialties include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and improving interpersonal relationship dynamics and boundaries.
Do you feel stuck or unhappy? Do you wonder why everyone seems to have it all together but you don’t? Do you want to stop living in fear and better yourself? Taking the steps to take control of your life is an act of bravery and self-love. We all get one life on this earth, it is up to us to make the most of it. I have been working as a therapist for over 10 years helping adults and adolescents make small changes that with time lead to big results. My specialties include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and improving interpersonal relationship dynamics and boundaries.
(515) 337-0842 View (515) 337-0842
Photo of Susan Lang, MA MHA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Susan Lang
Counselor, MA MHA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and need a calm, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts? You deserve to live a life that you feel excited about and leaves you looking forward to the day ahead! Anxiety and depression can feel like a weight that drags you down and feels like a burden. You really can have the life that you dream of and brings you happiness and fulfillment. I love to help people explore their thoughts and make connections between how their thoughts impact their choices and behavior while also learning how to make changes so that you design the life you want and the life that fulfils you.!
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and need a calm, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts? You deserve to live a life that you feel excited about and leaves you looking forward to the day ahead! Anxiety and depression can feel like a weight that drags you down and feels like a burden. You really can have the life that you dream of and brings you happiness and fulfillment. I love to help people explore their thoughts and make connections between how their thoughts impact their choices and behavior while also learning how to make changes so that you design the life you want and the life that fulfils you.!
(515) 902-5472 View (515) 902-5472
Photo of Teresa M Bear, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Teresa M Bear
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
“We do not grow by knowing all of the answers, but rather by living with the questions.” - Max De Pree. “Be curious, not judgmental.” -Ted Lasso These two quotes sum up my approach to therapy, and hopefully, to life. Our brains are naturally wired to make sense of things, to organize information into understandable experiences and thoughts. This relentless pursuit of understanding can lead to new discoveries, new technologies, new medicines. However, it can also lead to stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. Balance between curiosity and living with the questions is necessary to a life of integrity.
“We do not grow by knowing all of the answers, but rather by living with the questions.” - Max De Pree. “Be curious, not judgmental.” -Ted Lasso These two quotes sum up my approach to therapy, and hopefully, to life. Our brains are naturally wired to make sense of things, to organize information into understandable experiences and thoughts. This relentless pursuit of understanding can lead to new discoveries, new technologies, new medicines. However, it can also lead to stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. Balance between curiosity and living with the questions is necessary to a life of integrity.
(515) 599-3104 View (515) 599-3104
Photo of Lauren Flynn, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Immediate availability for ages 12+! No cost consultations. Life can present a facade of having it all together, yet internally, it can feel noisy, chaotic. You have valuable and important aspirations, and it can be a struggle to know where to start. If you are looking to embark on a journey with authenticity, mindfulness, and intentionality, you've found an ally. It won't always be easy, but may bring on moments of invigoration, sparks of joy, and an enhanced ability to deal with life's challenges. I work with individuals experiencing: parenting/relationship issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, executive functioning concerns.
Immediate availability for ages 12+! No cost consultations. Life can present a facade of having it all together, yet internally, it can feel noisy, chaotic. You have valuable and important aspirations, and it can be a struggle to know where to start. If you are looking to embark on a journey with authenticity, mindfulness, and intentionality, you've found an ally. It won't always be easy, but may bring on moments of invigoration, sparks of joy, and an enhanced ability to deal with life's challenges. I work with individuals experiencing: parenting/relationship issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, executive functioning concerns.
(515) 516-3665 View (515) 516-3665
Photo of Julie McClatchey - Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
(515) 585-1272 View (515) 585-1272
Photo of Lauren Kern, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Kern
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I believe that every path is courageous and so I value providing clients with a safe space to explore their struggles with patience and compassion. My goal in the therapeutic process is to guide clients to insights and to recognize their own strengths while working toward their identified goals. People often come to me for support with trauma, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I provide individual therapy to clients who are adolescents, teens, and adults with a special interest for young adults.
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I believe that every path is courageous and so I value providing clients with a safe space to explore their struggles with patience and compassion. My goal in the therapeutic process is to guide clients to insights and to recognize their own strengths while working toward their identified goals. People often come to me for support with trauma, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I provide individual therapy to clients who are adolescents, teens, and adults with a special interest for young adults.
(515) 854-0545 View (515) 854-0545
Photo of Dr. Kevin Allemagne, PhD, LMFT, LISW, LIMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kevin Allemagne
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LISW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Having been a clinical mental health therapist for 25 years, I recognize the decision to seek help can be difficult and challenging. My practice endeavors to create a comfortable and safe environment exploring your concerns in a collaborative and professional manner. I am committed in working to provide real solutions empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve their personal and professional goals. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how therapy may be helpful with your needs.
Having been a clinical mental health therapist for 25 years, I recognize the decision to seek help can be difficult and challenging. My practice endeavors to create a comfortable and safe environment exploring your concerns in a collaborative and professional manner. I am committed in working to provide real solutions empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve their personal and professional goals. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how therapy may be helpful with your needs.
(515) 446-9765 View (515) 446-9765
Photo of Sarah J Garcia, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah J Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
I have 16 years’ experience in social services, including 10 years engaged in adolescent and adult therapy. During that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in people’s lives starts with understanding their needs in a safe, judgement-free environment.
I have 16 years’ experience in social services, including 10 years engaged in adolescent and adult therapy. During that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in people’s lives starts with understanding their needs in a safe, judgement-free environment.
(515) 361-7935 View (515) 361-7935
Photo of Erin Young, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Young
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
With a blend of warmth, candor, and a sense of humor, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth. I offer a multifaceted approach to address a wide range of concerns. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, or perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, I'm here to provide compassionate support and effective strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll work to uncover underlying patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and cultivate new perspectives that empower you to thrive.
With a blend of warmth, candor, and a sense of humor, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth. I offer a multifaceted approach to address a wide range of concerns. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, or perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, I'm here to provide compassionate support and effective strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll work to uncover underlying patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and cultivate new perspectives that empower you to thrive.
(515) 379-8560 View (515) 379-8560
Photo of Caitlin Silveira, LMHC, Counselor
Caitlin Silveira
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
(515) 212-7324 View (515) 212-7324
Photo of Ann Latham, PhD, Psychologist
Ann Latham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I feel it is a privilege to meet with people of all ages and backgrounds who are willing to seek professional input regarding their personal situations. I work with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults to address a variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, stress, family issues, learning difficulties, life transitions, and parenting.
I feel it is a privilege to meet with people of all ages and backgrounds who are willing to seek professional input regarding their personal situations. I work with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults to address a variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, stress, family issues, learning difficulties, life transitions, and parenting.
(515) 497-2119 View (515) 497-2119
Photo of Colin W Priest - Calm Tree Therapy, LMHC, CRC, Counselor
Calm Tree Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
If you’re reading this right now you’ve likely experienced a lot of pain. Maybe you feel lost and don’t know what to do, or you’ve tried many things and nothing seems to work. Maybe things have felt “off” for some time and you are tired of the way you feel. One thing is for sure, you’re sick and tired of feeling the way you do right now and you want someone who can help. You want someone who you can trust, someone who respects you and sees the struggle you’ve had to endure. Most importantly, however, you want someone who can help you fix your problem so you can get back to living a happy life, and finally have some peace of mind.
If you’re reading this right now you’ve likely experienced a lot of pain. Maybe you feel lost and don’t know what to do, or you’ve tried many things and nothing seems to work. Maybe things have felt “off” for some time and you are tired of the way you feel. One thing is for sure, you’re sick and tired of feeling the way you do right now and you want someone who can help. You want someone who you can trust, someone who respects you and sees the struggle you’ve had to endure. Most importantly, however, you want someone who can help you fix your problem so you can get back to living a happy life, and finally have some peace of mind.
(515) 585-1239 View (515) 585-1239
Photo of Ricc Terranova, tLMHC, CH, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ricc Terranova
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC, CH
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
Inspired by Milton Erickson's metaphor of guiding the horse gently, I see my ideal client's issues as disconnection and uncertainty. They need support for growth and self-awareness, aiming to access inner resources. Their goal: embrace change and self-discovery for personal empowerment and fulfillment.
Inspired by Milton Erickson's metaphor of guiding the horse gently, I see my ideal client's issues as disconnection and uncertainty. They need support for growth and self-awareness, aiming to access inner resources. Their goal: embrace change and self-discovery for personal empowerment and fulfillment.
(515) 966-8905 View (515) 966-8905
Photo of Sharon Winkel-, MBA, LNHA, NLP, CHT
Sharon Winkel-
MBA, LNHA, NLP, CHT
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
(515) 212-7066 View (515) 212-7066
Photo of Kristy Lynn Brown, LMHC, NCC, CADC, Counselor
Kristy Lynn Brown
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Immediate on line registration and appointment scheduling available. Accepting clients 18 + if you have Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or private pay. Trying to find a therapist that is a good fit can be overwhelming. With over 20 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession, I specialize in working with individuals struggling with emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, substances, stress management, communication, overall relationship dynamics, family conflict, school issues, and trauma.
Accepting new clients! Immediate on line registration and appointment scheduling available. Accepting clients 18 + if you have Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance or private pay. Trying to find a therapist that is a good fit can be overwhelming. With over 20 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession, I specialize in working with individuals struggling with emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, substances, stress management, communication, overall relationship dynamics, family conflict, school issues, and trauma.
(515) 975-9915 View (515) 975-9915
Photo of Derek Michael Potthoff, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Michael Potthoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
(515) 303-3557 View (515) 303-3557
1

See more therapy options for Johnston

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnston, IA

60+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Johnston, IA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
79% Trauma and PTSD
79% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Wellmark BCBS
65% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Johnston, IA see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Johnston?

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.