Therapists in Whitestown, IN

Photo of Sandy Uhland Borth, LMHC, Counselor
Sandy Uhland Borth
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075  (Online Only)
I offer a compassionate, respectful environment to help my clients resolve problems, discover strengths, and enhance behavior and relationships. I have experience working with adolescents, individuals, couples and families helping to deal with life's stressors and transitions. My approach is flexible and customized to each person and I believe behavioral adjustments are strong in influencing positive change as to our thoughts and feelings. I have interests in helping people with anxiety and depression, relational issues and trauma, such as sexual abuse, infertility and post-traumatic stress syndrome.
I offer a compassionate, respectful environment to help my clients resolve problems, discover strengths, and enhance behavior and relationships. I have experience working with adolescents, individuals, couples and families helping to deal with life's stressors and transitions. My approach is flexible and customized to each person and I believe behavioral adjustments are strong in influencing positive change as to our thoughts and feelings. I have interests in helping people with anxiety and depression, relational issues and trauma, such as sexual abuse, infertility and post-traumatic stress syndrome.
(317) 214-8174 View (317) 214-8174
Photo of Lydia Miller, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Lydia Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Social Work with a Concentration in Mental Health and Addictions from the Indiana University School of Social Work. Lydia works with individuals and their families to identify and work through barriers currently affecting the individual's and family's functioning. She has more than seven years of experience providing individual, couples, and family therapy for clients across the lifespan.
Lydia Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Social Work with a Concentration in Mental Health and Addictions from the Indiana University School of Social Work. Lydia works with individuals and their families to identify and work through barriers currently affecting the individual's and family's functioning. She has more than seven years of experience providing individual, couples, and family therapy for clients across the lifespan.
(463) 243-6560 View (463) 243-6560
Photo of Aaron Goldsberry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Goldsberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Aaron Goldsberry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health and specializes in treating chronic mental health issues including mood, personality, trauma, and substance dependence disorders. Aaron utilizes Person-centered and Strengths-based approaches to therapy with a focus on Motivational Interviewing. Aaron works with adults, families, and couples to achieve their personal treatment goals and reach the outcomes they desire.
Aaron Goldsberry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health and specializes in treating chronic mental health issues including mood, personality, trauma, and substance dependence disorders. Aaron utilizes Person-centered and Strengths-based approaches to therapy with a focus on Motivational Interviewing. Aaron works with adults, families, and couples to achieve their personal treatment goals and reach the outcomes they desire.
(463) 222-4723 View (463) 222-4723
Photo of Pamela Arias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Arias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Pamela Arias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with individuals and their families to identify and work through barriers currently affecting the individual's and family's functioning capacity. She earned her bachelors in social work from Syracuse University and her master's degree in social work from Hunter College School of Social Work. She has over 8 years of experience working with individuals, families, and children in community based, school based, and private practice settings.
Pamela Arias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with individuals and their families to identify and work through barriers currently affecting the individual's and family's functioning capacity. She earned her bachelors in social work from Syracuse University and her master's degree in social work from Hunter College School of Social Work. She has over 8 years of experience working with individuals, families, and children in community based, school based, and private practice settings.
(463) 263-6935 View (463) 263-6935
Photo of MacKenzie Abney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MacKenzie Abney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
MacKenzie Abney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BSW from University of Southern Indiana and an MSW from University of Southern Indiana. MacKenzie believes in focusing on the client's individual needs to make treatment plans specifically for them. She offers an open-minded environment, a willingness to discuss all lifestyles and any hardships, and a playful office that provides comfort to clients of all ages. Outside of work, MacKenzie enjoys reading, watching movies, painting, and crocheting.
MacKenzie Abney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BSW from University of Southern Indiana and an MSW from University of Southern Indiana. MacKenzie believes in focusing on the client's individual needs to make treatment plans specifically for them. She offers an open-minded environment, a willingness to discuss all lifestyles and any hardships, and a playful office that provides comfort to clients of all ages. Outside of work, MacKenzie enjoys reading, watching movies, painting, and crocheting.
(463) 263-4528 View (463) 263-4528
Photo of Phillip Graybiel, MA,  LMHC, Counselor
Phillip Graybiel
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Phil Graybiel, LMHC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Indiana navigate their mental health journeys. As a mental health counselor, Phil has worked with people at all stages of life to overcome difficult emotions and manage life transitions. Whether you are dealing with grief and loss or have long struggled with depression and anxiety, Phil uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients from diverse backgrounds. Phil is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma.
Phil Graybiel, LMHC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Indiana navigate their mental health journeys. As a mental health counselor, Phil has worked with people at all stages of life to overcome difficult emotions and manage life transitions. Whether you are dealing with grief and loss or have long struggled with depression and anxiety, Phil uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients from diverse backgrounds. Phil is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma.
(463) 287-7608 View (463) 287-7608
Photo of Molly Walsh, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075  (Online Only)
One of the things that is most important to me in any relationship is authenticity. We want to know that we are able to form trusting and honest connections with others. I think this is true in any relationships but has special importance in the therapeutic relationship. I want to learn about who you really are and what it is you value. I work well with those who are willing to be open and a little uncomfortable in order to make meaningful changes. In therapy, we share a stance of curiosity. I have found that when we replace judgement with this curiosity, we can make the meaningful changes we desire.
One of the things that is most important to me in any relationship is authenticity. We want to know that we are able to form trusting and honest connections with others. I think this is true in any relationships but has special importance in the therapeutic relationship. I want to learn about who you really are and what it is you value. I work well with those who are willing to be open and a little uncomfortable in order to make meaningful changes. In therapy, we share a stance of curiosity. I have found that when we replace judgement with this curiosity, we can make the meaningful changes we desire.
(317) 548-6788 View (317) 548-6788
Photo of Jayson Harvey, LMHC, Counselor
Jayson Harvey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Jayson Harvey graduated from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Minor in Psychology. Jayson continued his education at Capella University and completed a Master's in Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He currently holds a Licensee in Mental Health Counseling and Addiction Counseling. Jayson has worked for 7 years in the Indiana Department of Correction with both mental health and addictions populations.
Jayson Harvey graduated from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Minor in Psychology. Jayson continued his education at Capella University and completed a Master's in Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He currently holds a Licensee in Mental Health Counseling and Addiction Counseling. Jayson has worked for 7 years in the Indiana Department of Correction with both mental health and addictions populations.
(463) 218-9232 View (463) 218-9232
Photo of Kathryn Sebo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Sebo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Kathy Sebo, LCSW Kathy Sebo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana who has been practicing since 2003. She has a BA in Sociology from Butler and an MSW from UIC. Kathy believes in a treatment philosophy that includes CBT, Family Systems, ACT, and Psychodynamic. In her spare time, Kathy enjoys gardening, crafts, and spending time with family and friends.
Kathy Sebo, LCSW Kathy Sebo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana who has been practicing since 2003. She has a BA in Sociology from Butler and an MSW from UIC. Kathy believes in a treatment philosophy that includes CBT, Family Systems, ACT, and Psychodynamic. In her spare time, Kathy enjoys gardening, crafts, and spending time with family and friends.
(317) 406-4431 View (317) 406-4431
Photo of Amber L. Schenck, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber L. Schenck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
It takes a lot of strength and bravery to reach out for help. You might want to be heard and understood, and gain understanding of your experience. You might want relief, direction, tools, and to really thrive. If you or your child are struggling with healing from trauma, are feeling down and depressed, or having difficulty managing anxiety, I'd love to help. If you are experiencing a life adjustment, parenting challenges, or are needing support related to perinatal mental health, I'd love to come alongside you. The courage clients have in opening up and sharing their vulnerabilities with me is something I admire and value.
It takes a lot of strength and bravery to reach out for help. You might want to be heard and understood, and gain understanding of your experience. You might want relief, direction, tools, and to really thrive. If you or your child are struggling with healing from trauma, are feeling down and depressed, or having difficulty managing anxiety, I'd love to help. If you are experiencing a life adjustment, parenting challenges, or are needing support related to perinatal mental health, I'd love to come alongside you. The courage clients have in opening up and sharing their vulnerabilities with me is something I admire and value.
(765) 266-3331 View (765) 266-3331
Photo of Laura Fizel, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Fizel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Dr. Laura Fizel is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience treating individuals through the lifespan. She earned her bachelor's degree from The New School for Social Research and her doctorate from Pace University in New York City. She works with school-age children, adolescents, adults and the elderly and provides individual, group, and family therapy. She has provided services in hospital, clinic and school settings. She has taught undergraduate psychology courses as an adjunct professor.
Dr. Laura Fizel is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience treating individuals through the lifespan. She earned her bachelor's degree from The New School for Social Research and her doctorate from Pace University in New York City. She works with school-age children, adolescents, adults and the elderly and provides individual, group, and family therapy. She has provided services in hospital, clinic and school settings. She has taught undergraduate psychology courses as an adjunct professor.
(463) 218-6815 View (463) 218-6815
Photo of Anne Conley-Goldstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Anne Conley-Goldstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Anne Conley-Goldstein, PhD Dr. Conley-Goldstein is a Clinical Child Psychologist. She earned her bachelor? s degree from Earlham College with a major in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. She earned her master? s and doctorial degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology. Dr. Conley-Goldstein has focused her education, training and work experience on children, adolescents and families for over 20 years and is fluent in Spanish. She has been a member of the American Psychological Association since 1996 and a member of the Indiana Psychological Association since 2005.
Anne Conley-Goldstein, PhD Dr. Conley-Goldstein is a Clinical Child Psychologist. She earned her bachelor? s degree from Earlham College with a major in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. She earned her master? s and doctorial degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology. Dr. Conley-Goldstein has focused her education, training and work experience on children, adolescents and families for over 20 years and is fluent in Spanish. She has been a member of the American Psychological Association since 1996 and a member of the Indiana Psychological Association since 2005.
(463) 583-2960 View (463) 583-2960
Photo of Jane Roell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Roell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
One of the bravest things that someone can do is find a supportive environment where you can be honest and take care of yourself. I look forward to being able to walk beside you and your family through this journey. Please email me to find a time to connect!
One of the bravest things that someone can do is find a supportive environment where you can be honest and take care of yourself. I look forward to being able to walk beside you and your family through this journey. Please email me to find a time to connect!
(317) 204-8122 View (317) 204-8122
Photo of Monica Erk, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Erk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
We all go through seasons in our lives where it would be beneficial to have someone come along side and help us get out of our own muck. I work with a variety of people but particularly like helping people get past traumatic events or to have better relationships with others.
We all go through seasons in our lives where it would be beneficial to have someone come along side and help us get out of our own muck. I work with a variety of people but particularly like helping people get past traumatic events or to have better relationships with others.
(765) 212-3712 View (765) 212-3712
Photo of Merry Thoe, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merry Thoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, anxious? As your therapist, I will support you when challenges such as anxiety, relationships, parenting, trauma, addictions, low self esteem or transitions keep you from living your very best life. I will work collaboratively with you to gain insight into why you feel the way you do and to assist in the development of adaptive coping skills so you can experience more hope, confidence and balance in your life. My top priority is to create a nonjudgmental space where you will feel understood and validated. The majority of my clients are women who are working to find their voice and purpose.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, anxious? As your therapist, I will support you when challenges such as anxiety, relationships, parenting, trauma, addictions, low self esteem or transitions keep you from living your very best life. I will work collaboratively with you to gain insight into why you feel the way you do and to assist in the development of adaptive coping skills so you can experience more hope, confidence and balance in your life. My top priority is to create a nonjudgmental space where you will feel understood and validated. The majority of my clients are women who are working to find their voice and purpose.
(463) 403-0446 View (463) 403-0446
Photo of Aimee Dershowitz, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Aimee Dershowitz
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
(317) 344-8736 View (317) 344-8736
Photo of Larry Larson, MSW, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitestown, IN 46075
I am currently accepting new clients. We accept Anthem insurance, Anthem Medicaids, United/UMR, Aetna, and Self Pay. I can meet virtual or face to face in our Brownsburg office. I have decades of experience working with couples and families. I also work with individuals and older teens (approximately ages 14 and up). I have had training for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a Masters degree in Divinity and a Masters in Social Work. My passion is serving others to find a healthier sense of self, healing, and happiness. I look forward to working together.
I am currently accepting new clients. We accept Anthem insurance, Anthem Medicaids, United/UMR, Aetna, and Self Pay. I can meet virtual or face to face in our Brownsburg office. I have decades of experience working with couples and families. I also work with individuals and older teens (approximately ages 14 and up). I have had training for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a Masters degree in Divinity and a Masters in Social Work. My passion is serving others to find a healthier sense of self, healing, and happiness. I look forward to working together.
(463) 210-1824 View (463) 210-1824
Photo of Jen O'Rourke, MA, MFT, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen O'Rourke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
Waitlist for new clients
You've read every parenting book out there and none of it works. Strict punishments and behavior charts make things worse and yet gentle parenting makes you feel walked all over. Initially perhaps you thought your child would grow out of some of these things or maybe even "forget" something bad that happened but now you are starting to second guess yourself. Something just doesn't seem right with your child and your gut is telling you that professional help is the way to go. And you are right, research shows that early intervention is far more effective than waiting until later in childhood to deal with problems.
You've read every parenting book out there and none of it works. Strict punishments and behavior charts make things worse and yet gentle parenting makes you feel walked all over. Initially perhaps you thought your child would grow out of some of these things or maybe even "forget" something bad that happened but now you are starting to second guess yourself. Something just doesn't seem right with your child and your gut is telling you that professional help is the way to go. And you are right, research shows that early intervention is far more effective than waiting until later in childhood to deal with problems.
(317) 342-5479 View (317) 342-5479
Photo of Pete Vischer, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pete Vischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Whitestown, IN 46075
It’s so easy in this day and age to lose sight of one’s self and wake up one day and not recognize the person in the mirror. It’s my passion to come alongside those individuals or couples that have lost their way in life and need a listening ear or a fresh perspective. I firmly believe that every dry and painful season of life can be a springboard into hope for the next. It does not matter who you are, what’s been done or what you have done, there is hope.
It’s so easy in this day and age to lose sight of one’s self and wake up one day and not recognize the person in the mirror. It’s my passion to come alongside those individuals or couples that have lost their way in life and need a listening ear or a fresh perspective. I firmly believe that every dry and painful season of life can be a springboard into hope for the next. It does not matter who you are, what’s been done or what you have done, there is hope.
(317) 316-3414 View (317) 316-3414
Photo of Michelle Whitaker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Whitaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitestown, IN 46075
There are many reasons why someone might want to come to therapy. Are you feeling sad, worried, irritable or angry most of the time? Maybe it just feels hard to regulate your mood. You may have experienced trauma. You could be going through a difficult time in your life due to stress, grief or life changes. Your relationships with your friends or responsibilities at school might feel overwhelming or hard to manage. If you're a parent, you might notice these changes in your child or teen. Any of these situations can leave you feeling lonely, stuck or hopeless. I am here to help provide compassion, hope and trauma-informed care.
There are many reasons why someone might want to come to therapy. Are you feeling sad, worried, irritable or angry most of the time? Maybe it just feels hard to regulate your mood. You may have experienced trauma. You could be going through a difficult time in your life due to stress, grief or life changes. Your relationships with your friends or responsibilities at school might feel overwhelming or hard to manage. If you're a parent, you might notice these changes in your child or teen. Any of these situations can leave you feeling lonely, stuck or hopeless. I am here to help provide compassion, hope and trauma-informed care.
(317) 961-5817 View (317) 961-5817

See more therapy options for Whitestown

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Whitestown, IN

20+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Whitestown, IN who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
60% Grief
60% Life Transitions
55% Relationship Issues
50% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Anthem | Elevance
74% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Whitestown, IN see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Whitestown?

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.