Therapists in Bantam, CT

Photo of Andrew Matusiak, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Matusiak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bantam, CT 06750
Waitlist for new clients
Do you want to live a life with greater freedom? What if I told you that you could be truly happy, live without anxiety, and have mastery over your body and mind? I understand that everyone is in a different part of the healing process and will design a plan with you to meet your specific goals.
Do you want to live a life with greater freedom? What if I told you that you could be truly happy, live without anxiety, and have mastery over your body and mind? I understand that everyone is in a different part of the healing process and will design a plan with you to meet your specific goals.
(860) 960-0282 View (860) 960-0282
Photo of Lisa Marie Beaulieu, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Marie Beaulieu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bantam, CT 06750
I take a collaborative approach towards helping clients develop insight and create fresh alternatives to ineffective patterns, assisting them with examining intergenerational transmissions of trauma, relational trauma, and maladaptive coping strategies. My ideal client is looking for a psychotherapist that integrates evidence-based practices, including EMDR and Clinical Hypnosis, with Shamanic, alternative and energy healing approaches into sessions. My ideal client is looking to gain insight, learn to regulate emotions and listen to their emotions, manage their energy and is committed to doing the work to become their best self.
I take a collaborative approach towards helping clients develop insight and create fresh alternatives to ineffective patterns, assisting them with examining intergenerational transmissions of trauma, relational trauma, and maladaptive coping strategies. My ideal client is looking for a psychotherapist that integrates evidence-based practices, including EMDR and Clinical Hypnosis, with Shamanic, alternative and energy healing approaches into sessions. My ideal client is looking to gain insight, learn to regulate emotions and listen to their emotions, manage their energy and is committed to doing the work to become their best self.
(860) 249-1578 View (860) 249-1578
Photo of Rebecca Antonaccio, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Antonaccio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bantam, CT 06750
I believe in working with clients through a collaborative person-centered and strength-based approach to help clients reach their goals. It is my goal to create and hold a safe therapeutic space for clients to work towards the changes they want to make in their lives.
I believe in working with clients through a collaborative person-centered and strength-based approach to help clients reach their goals. It is my goal to create and hold a safe therapeutic space for clients to work towards the changes they want to make in their lives.
(860) 854-4935 View (860) 854-4935
Photo of Candace I Boden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace I Boden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bantam, CT 06750
You don't have to suffer with the painful symptoms of depression, high anxiety, panic disorder, unresolved grief, or repercussions from abuse and difficult life transitions. Talk therapy helps change brain chemistry and relieve those difficult symptoms that are keeping you from leading the quality life you deserve. I hope you'll consider psychotherapy with me in a relaxed, country environment. You can feel better.
You don't have to suffer with the painful symptoms of depression, high anxiety, panic disorder, unresolved grief, or repercussions from abuse and difficult life transitions. Talk therapy helps change brain chemistry and relieve those difficult symptoms that are keeping you from leading the quality life you deserve. I hope you'll consider psychotherapy with me in a relaxed, country environment. You can feel better.
(860) 331-8080 View (860) 331-8080
Photo of Lisa R Ford - Horticulture Therapy Farm, LLC, LPC, LADC, LMHC, DOT SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Horticulture Therapy Farm, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC, LMHC, DOT SAP
Verified Verified
Bantam, CT 06750
Outdoor Ecotherapy or telehealth. Lisa grew up on a farm property in Litchfield County, CT. Experiences here led her to an early appreciation for the relationship of the natural environment and healing through restorative modalities. She believes that connecting with nature improves mental health and well being. She studied horticulture and incorporated knowledge and skills in landscape design, project management, growing, and all aspects of greenhouse activities for over twenty years. Lisa then studied psychology and practiced in several settings including psychiatric group homes, hospitals, agencies, rehabs and private practice.
Outdoor Ecotherapy or telehealth. Lisa grew up on a farm property in Litchfield County, CT. Experiences here led her to an early appreciation for the relationship of the natural environment and healing through restorative modalities. She believes that connecting with nature improves mental health and well being. She studied horticulture and incorporated knowledge and skills in landscape design, project management, growing, and all aspects of greenhouse activities for over twenty years. Lisa then studied psychology and practiced in several settings including psychiatric group homes, hospitals, agencies, rehabs and private practice.
(203) 307-5881 View (203) 307-5881
Photo of Sarah Pelligrinelli, LMSW, CTRS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Pelligrinelli
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bantam, CT 06750
All are welcome here, let me show you that you are enough! I would love to demonstrate that therapy doesn't have to be intimidating. Together, we can create a balanced path to healing, self-understanding, and meaningful work. The beauty of alternative therapy lies in its person-centered nature, allowing you to take proactive steps and witness the results you deserve.
All are welcome here, let me show you that you are enough! I would love to demonstrate that therapy doesn't have to be intimidating. Together, we can create a balanced path to healing, self-understanding, and meaningful work. The beauty of alternative therapy lies in its person-centered nature, allowing you to take proactive steps and witness the results you deserve.
(860) 552-2582 View (860) 552-2582
Photo of Bryan Kelly, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bantam, CT 06750
Whatever it is that you are struggling with, I am certain of one thing, it has been beating you up and convincing you that there is no hope. You’re tired of it, you’ve been fighting it tooth and nail and yet it still persists. You are surviving without any tools and my role to you is to give you a hammer. As someone who has ten years experience working with people who struggle with anger, anxiety, relationship issues, and who struggle with conventional therapy, I have found reliable methods to elevate people to where they want to be in life.
Whatever it is that you are struggling with, I am certain of one thing, it has been beating you up and convincing you that there is no hope. You’re tired of it, you’ve been fighting it tooth and nail and yet it still persists. You are surviving without any tools and my role to you is to give you a hammer. As someone who has ten years experience working with people who struggle with anger, anxiety, relationship issues, and who struggle with conventional therapy, I have found reliable methods to elevate people to where they want to be in life.
(203) 872-9355 View (203) 872-9355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelly W Mays, LPCA
Kelly W Mays
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750  (Online Only)
I offer remote tele-health and video therapy sessions to anyone seeking mental health support. I earned my MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford following earning a BA in Psychology, minoring in Women's Studies, from Uconn. I served at York Correctional Maximum Security Prison as a Post Graduate Clinical Intern. I worked as an IICAPS clinician following graduation. I am now working as an Outpatient Clinician serving clients of varying ages and clinical needs. I take the trust my clients offer very seriously and I only take a limited amount of clients ensuring I can give the best care possible.
I offer remote tele-health and video therapy sessions to anyone seeking mental health support. I earned my MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford following earning a BA in Psychology, minoring in Women's Studies, from Uconn. I served at York Correctional Maximum Security Prison as a Post Graduate Clinical Intern. I worked as an IICAPS clinician following graduation. I am now working as an Outpatient Clinician serving clients of varying ages and clinical needs. I take the trust my clients offer very seriously and I only take a limited amount of clients ensuring I can give the best care possible.
(860) 909-8469 View (860) 909-8469
Photo of Sasha Medina, LPC, LMHC, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sasha Medina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeside, CT 06758  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with everyday stress? Are life transitions becoming overwhelming? Hi! I'm Sasha. I'm fully bilingual (English/Spanish). I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in treating anxiety, behavioral challenges, life transitions, trauma and supporting the challenges of parenting. I meet clients and their families where they are and together we develop goals and strategies to help them become the best versions of themselves. I am Licensed in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Accepting new clients!
Are you struggling with everyday stress? Are life transitions becoming overwhelming? Hi! I'm Sasha. I'm fully bilingual (English/Spanish). I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in treating anxiety, behavioral challenges, life transitions, trauma and supporting the challenges of parenting. I meet clients and their families where they are and together we develop goals and strategies to help them become the best versions of themselves. I am Licensed in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Accepting new clients!
(860) 598-4151 View (860) 598-4151
Photo of Scott Paul Ogurick, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Paul Ogurick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
"Change is not about moving forward, it is letting go of where you are". I really value this quote and refer to it daily; not only in my life but also when helping with the lives of others. I aim to offer supports and guidance to individuals, couples and families seeking assistance in making a change for the better. My goal is to collaborate with the individual, couple and or family to build rapport, gain trust and meet the individual(s) where he or she is at in their lives in order to build resistance and move towards the solution to the presented issue(s).
"Change is not about moving forward, it is letting go of where you are". I really value this quote and refer to it daily; not only in my life but also when helping with the lives of others. I aim to offer supports and guidance to individuals, couples and families seeking assistance in making a change for the better. My goal is to collaborate with the individual, couple and or family to build rapport, gain trust and meet the individual(s) where he or she is at in their lives in order to build resistance and move towards the solution to the presented issue(s).
(860) 910-4174 View (860) 910-4174
Photo of Eileen Kelly, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eileen Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750  (Online Only)
I thank you for reaching out during these challenging times. I have been in private practice for the last 16 yrs. My approach is to create a climate of support, empathy and compassion where together we can develop solutions for your concerns. I specialize in helping adults with relationships of all kinds - whether it be in a marriage - with family members (siblings or parents) or even in the workplace - reach out if you could use some help.
I thank you for reaching out during these challenging times. I have been in private practice for the last 16 yrs. My approach is to create a climate of support, empathy and compassion where together we can develop solutions for your concerns. I specialize in helping adults with relationships of all kinds - whether it be in a marriage - with family members (siblings or parents) or even in the workplace - reach out if you could use some help.
(203) 423-0287 View (203) 423-0287
Photo of Kate Fillion - Anchor Wellness LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anchor Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
We are a Neurodiversity and LQBTQIA+-affirming group practice with physical locations in Clinton and New London. Each clinician at Anchor Wellness holds a specific focus of practice, from perinatal mental health to parenting, relationships/couples/family work, trauma, as well as general mental health conditions. All therapists are trauma-informed and person-centered, so you can always expect thorough assessment and individualized treatment. Telehealth and in-person options are available for all clinicians.
We are a Neurodiversity and LQBTQIA+-affirming group practice with physical locations in Clinton and New London. Each clinician at Anchor Wellness holds a specific focus of practice, from perinatal mental health to parenting, relationships/couples/family work, trauma, as well as general mental health conditions. All therapists are trauma-informed and person-centered, so you can always expect thorough assessment and individualized treatment. Telehealth and in-person options are available for all clinicians.
(959) 207-1851 View (959) 207-1851
Photo of Caitlin McAvoy - Sky Meadow Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sky Meadow Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
Do you often times leave appointments feeling misunderstood, invalidated or not heard by providers? Sky Meadow Counseling is an office comprised of two Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each bringing over 10 years of experience to counseling. Sky Meadow Counseling utilizes a client center approach with a combination of traditional psychotherapy and holistic practices with individuals age 10 and above. We are here to provide clients, families and/or caregivers with a safe environment through processing and healing. Together we will work through challenging life situations that disrupt emotional, mental, and physical well being.
Do you often times leave appointments feeling misunderstood, invalidated or not heard by providers? Sky Meadow Counseling is an office comprised of two Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each bringing over 10 years of experience to counseling. Sky Meadow Counseling utilizes a client center approach with a combination of traditional psychotherapy and holistic practices with individuals age 10 and above. We are here to provide clients, families and/or caregivers with a safe environment through processing and healing. Together we will work through challenging life situations that disrupt emotional, mental, and physical well being.
(860) 813-3499 View (860) 813-3499
Photo of Skylar Kelly Sandel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Skylar Kelly Sandel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield, CT 06750
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has spent the past decade serving individuals, children, and families in various capacities within the human service field. I specialized in crisis-based intervention, co-dependency, relational communication and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I take a responsive client-focused approach to treating trauma exposure which allows me to establish strong therapeutic alliances with clients in their most vulnerable moments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has spent the past decade serving individuals, children, and families in various capacities within the human service field. I specialized in crisis-based intervention, co-dependency, relational communication and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I take a responsive client-focused approach to treating trauma exposure which allows me to establish strong therapeutic alliances with clients in their most vulnerable moments.
(860) 390-5099 View (860) 390-5099
Photo of Jaymie Naclerio, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaymie Naclerio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has spent over 12 years working with children, parents, and families in various capacities within the human services field. I specialize in working with clients who have diverse behavioral, mental health, and educational needs including but not limited to anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, relational communication needs, life transitions, and parenting. I utilize patient-centered therapy and trauma-assisted therapy to support clients with developing goals that are unique for their personal needs and preferences.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has spent over 12 years working with children, parents, and families in various capacities within the human services field. I specialize in working with clients who have diverse behavioral, mental health, and educational needs including but not limited to anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, relational communication needs, life transitions, and parenting. I utilize patient-centered therapy and trauma-assisted therapy to support clients with developing goals that are unique for their personal needs and preferences.
(860) 854-3657 View (860) 854-3657
Photo of Ed Bacigalupo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ed Bacigalupo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
In a nonjudgmental format, I will help you improve your self-esteem and self-worth, as well as focus and motivation. It is my honor to assist you with reaching your true potential. Stop letting worry, fear and anger stand in the way of your goals and dreams. Awaken to the strengths you possess and learn new strategies to increase life enjoyment.
In a nonjudgmental format, I will help you improve your self-esteem and self-worth, as well as focus and motivation. It is my honor to assist you with reaching your true potential. Stop letting worry, fear and anger stand in the way of your goals and dreams. Awaken to the strengths you possess and learn new strategies to increase life enjoyment.
(860) 544-2473 View (860) 544-2473
Photo of Nicole Kroeber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Kroeber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
As a licensed psychotherapist and NeuroAffective touch practitioner, I offer talk and therapeutic touch. Our bodies tell the story of our struggles to love & be loved leading to emotional injuries of abandonment, neglect and betrayal. NaTouch enables the release of tensions in the muscles & viscera and nurtures a dysregulated physiology. I have blended all that I’ve learned in education & professional somatic training domains to share with you the vital importance of nervous system regulation - true health & healing that leads to lasting change.
As a licensed psychotherapist and NeuroAffective touch practitioner, I offer talk and therapeutic touch. Our bodies tell the story of our struggles to love & be loved leading to emotional injuries of abandonment, neglect and betrayal. NaTouch enables the release of tensions in the muscles & viscera and nurtures a dysregulated physiology. I have blended all that I’ve learned in education & professional somatic training domains to share with you the vital importance of nervous system regulation - true health & healing that leads to lasting change.
(475) 473-8342 View (475) 473-8342
Photo of Joel Behar - Dr. Joel Behar, PhD, BCD, ABMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Joel Behar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, BCD, ABMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield, CT 06759
Waitlist for new clients
With over 4 decades of experience in clinical practice, I have helped people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures to face and resolve their problems, manage or eliminate their fears and anxieties and to get more out of life. Clients and colleagues have described me as a clinician who is empathic, caring, kind and highly effective. As a clinician with a Ph.D. in medical psychotherapy my treatment approach and training encompasses the following range: cognitive behavioral therapy, child and family therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, Morita therapy, among others.
With over 4 decades of experience in clinical practice, I have helped people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures to face and resolve their problems, manage or eliminate their fears and anxieties and to get more out of life. Clients and colleagues have described me as a clinician who is empathic, caring, kind and highly effective. As a clinician with a Ph.D. in medical psychotherapy my treatment approach and training encompasses the following range: cognitive behavioral therapy, child and family therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, Morita therapy, among others.
(860) 390-5242 View (860) 390-5242
Photo of Shelly McNulty - Shelly McNulty, LCSW, MSW, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly McNulty, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06750
Want to live your best life? I have many years of experience supporting children, teens, adults and seniors in managing anxiety, depression, complex trauma, family issues and other complex social issues. My years of experience has allowed me to build trusting relationships with my clients. Through my professional and personal experience, I have come to realize that each person I work with is a unique individual looking to achieve their fullest potential, despite the challenges they face on a daily basis. Learning to prioritize yourself is key to a successful life journey - contact me and let's see how far you can go!
Want to live your best life? I have many years of experience supporting children, teens, adults and seniors in managing anxiety, depression, complex trauma, family issues and other complex social issues. My years of experience has allowed me to build trusting relationships with my clients. Through my professional and personal experience, I have come to realize that each person I work with is a unique individual looking to achieve their fullest potential, despite the challenges they face on a daily basis. Learning to prioritize yourself is key to a successful life journey - contact me and let's see how far you can go!
(203) 594-8054 View (203) 594-8054
Photo of Richard H Raskin, PhD, Psychologist
Richard H Raskin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Litchfield, CT 06759  (Online Only)
I've helped many people cope with excessive life stress, resolve problems in relationships, recover from difficult divorces, manage traumatic bereavement and loss, cope with major life transitions, and develop effective strategies to manage changes in their lives. I served as the director of the Counseling Center at Pace University for 24 years. I've also worked in multiple settings with diverse populations including active duty military personnel, veterans of military service, persons in 12-step programs (AA NA DA), adolescents and their families. I also enjoy helping men to better understand and talk about their feelings.
I've helped many people cope with excessive life stress, resolve problems in relationships, recover from difficult divorces, manage traumatic bereavement and loss, cope with major life transitions, and develop effective strategies to manage changes in their lives. I served as the director of the Counseling Center at Pace University for 24 years. I've also worked in multiple settings with diverse populations including active duty military personnel, veterans of military service, persons in 12-step programs (AA NA DA), adolescents and their families. I also enjoy helping men to better understand and talk about their feelings.
(646) 386-2208 View (646) 386-2208

See more therapy options for Bantam

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bantam, CT

< 10

Therapists in Bantam, CT who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
71% ADHD
57% Relationship Issues
57% Addiction
57% Spirituality

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicaid

How Therapists in Bantam, CT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bantam?

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.