Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists in Mission, KS
![Photo of Leah Swindle, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6e5e203-ee67-4910-852a-2c4b31b78db4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Swindle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mission, KS 66205
Life is a challenge all on its own. When you add things like feeling depressed, anxious, or just struggling with life in general, it's tough. You want to find your way from here to the life you imagine: successful, people treat you well, you have healthy relationships and it doesn't take much energy just to exist. It can happen. When you're trying to sort it out yourself you can easily get stuck. With a little bit of guidance, we can work together to get you the skills you need to move to a healthier place. Call me and let's get started!
Life is a challenge all on its own. When you add things like feeling depressed, anxious, or just struggling with life in general, it's tough. You want to find your way from here to the life you imagine: successful, people treat you well, you have healthy relationships and it doesn't take much energy just to exist. It can happen. When you're trying to sort it out yourself you can easily get stuck. With a little bit of guidance, we can work together to get you the skills you need to move to a healthier place. Call me and let's get started!
![Photo of Ian A Newlin, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f7d56d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have seen the pain and dysfunction caused by mental health and behavioral issues. Not only do these issues affect the client directly, but everyone in their lives. My greatest satisfaction comes from helping these individuals understand the cause of their behaviors so that they can move past them. My ideal client genuinely wants to change the way they think and behave. They feel helpless and hopeless. Those are the individuals who benefit the most from hypnotherapy. Treatment allows them to develop an enthusiasm for life that allows them to start each new day. That's when we are both successful.
I have seen the pain and dysfunction caused by mental health and behavioral issues. Not only do these issues affect the client directly, but everyone in their lives. My greatest satisfaction comes from helping these individuals understand the cause of their behaviors so that they can move past them. My ideal client genuinely wants to change the way they think and behave. They feel helpless and hopeless. Those are the individuals who benefit the most from hypnotherapy. Treatment allows them to develop an enthusiasm for life that allows them to start each new day. That's when we are both successful.
![Photo of Larsen K Barnds Jr, MS, LCMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/805afbc4-90ca-425b-b6a6-cadea3b59ba2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larsen K Barnds Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission, KS 66205 (Online Only)
Here you are, looking for some help-so well done, you! Sometimes part of us wants help and another part wants to "do it on our own". Therefore, it is understandable that it might be no small task to make that first call. AND since sorting thoughts, feelings, and worries can feel overwhelming, I appreciate your courage and wisdom in seeking professional assistance, because no one has to do this alone. Getting to "better" is often very collaborative. Together, we can find a healthy and safe way to discover, sort and map the confusion/worry and then move forward. When you are ready, please give me a call. I am right here.
Here you are, looking for some help-so well done, you! Sometimes part of us wants help and another part wants to "do it on our own". Therefore, it is understandable that it might be no small task to make that first call. AND since sorting thoughts, feelings, and worries can feel overwhelming, I appreciate your courage and wisdom in seeking professional assistance, because no one has to do this alone. Getting to "better" is often very collaborative. Together, we can find a healthy and safe way to discover, sort and map the confusion/worry and then move forward. When you are ready, please give me a call. I am right here.
![Photo of Jessica Willemsen, MSW, LSCSW, LMAC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d30f2dee-e71f-4ea9-b658-400c3d86a0ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Willemsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW, LMAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mission, KS 66201
Hello, I'm Jessica, and congratulations on taking the first step towards healing. Therapy provides a new beginning for your journey toward increased hope, happiness, and emotional health. For women of all ages looking for a new beginning...from sleepless nights, fear and isolation, debilitating sadness, a haunting painful past, or entrapment by drugs or alcohol; I want to offer you a better tomorrow, a new beginning. This is the place for you, without shame or judgment, to find sanctuary and peace, and rekindle your inner strength, courage and wisdom.
Hello, I'm Jessica, and congratulations on taking the first step towards healing. Therapy provides a new beginning for your journey toward increased hope, happiness, and emotional health. For women of all ages looking for a new beginning...from sleepless nights, fear and isolation, debilitating sadness, a haunting painful past, or entrapment by drugs or alcohol; I want to offer you a better tomorrow, a new beginning. This is the place for you, without shame or judgment, to find sanctuary and peace, and rekindle your inner strength, courage and wisdom.
![Photo of Victoria Gordon, LPC, PLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02774c67-588e-4ca4-9bc4-722fcc955dad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Victoria and I’m glad you’re here! Have you ever felt like the trauma you’ve experienced or your diagnosis is something that holds you back or you’re navigating it all on your own? I have, and it’s one of the primary reasons I became a therapist myself. With a history of childhood trauma and being neurodivergent, I’ve come to understand that relational support is essential to healing, growing, and creating the life we long for. I know firsthand how lonely trauma recovery can be and I aim to provide a soft space for you to unmask and be “selfish” long enough for you to find relief and heal.
Hi, I’m Victoria and I’m glad you’re here! Have you ever felt like the trauma you’ve experienced or your diagnosis is something that holds you back or you’re navigating it all on your own? I have, and it’s one of the primary reasons I became a therapist myself. With a history of childhood trauma and being neurodivergent, I’ve come to understand that relational support is essential to healing, growing, and creating the life we long for. I know firsthand how lonely trauma recovery can be and I aim to provide a soft space for you to unmask and be “selfish” long enough for you to find relief and heal.
![Photo of Melissa Donaghy - Melissa Donaghy, LCMFT, MSFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dc65e55-3b97-4f58-b8b3-bf5fe950d061/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Donaghy, LCMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission, KS 66202
Not accepting new clients
I feel called to come alongside individuals wounded by painful life experiences (abuse, trauma, attachment injury) as well as individuals navigating life transitions that most, if not all, of us walk through (adulthood, marriage, illness, divorce, death. etc). I consider the healing process to be both sacred and deeply personal, so I work very hard to honor and appreciate the need to "tailor" individual's needs, abilities, and treatment objectives to their healing journey.
I feel called to come alongside individuals wounded by painful life experiences (abuse, trauma, attachment injury) as well as individuals navigating life transitions that most, if not all, of us walk through (adulthood, marriage, illness, divorce, death. etc). I consider the healing process to be both sacred and deeply personal, so I work very hard to honor and appreciate the need to "tailor" individual's needs, abilities, and treatment objectives to their healing journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Thressa Newell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f441b70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Did you feel neglected and unloved when you were a child? Did you feel lonely and ostracized if you tried to tell your parents or other adults about your feelings or if you tried to ask them questions about life? In your adult life, do you have difficulty relating to others? Do you feel depressed and alienated from others? Do you have difficulty knowing your own feelings or how you feel in your own body? Are you afraid to trust yourself, to be yourself? I've worked for 20 years with adults abused, traumatized, and/or neglected in childhood. .
Did you feel neglected and unloved when you were a child? Did you feel lonely and ostracized if you tried to tell your parents or other adults about your feelings or if you tried to ask them questions about life? In your adult life, do you have difficulty relating to others? Do you feel depressed and alienated from others? Do you have difficulty knowing your own feelings or how you feel in your own body? Are you afraid to trust yourself, to be yourself? I've worked for 20 years with adults abused, traumatized, and/or neglected in childhood. .
![Photo of Heather Hingston, LCMFT, LMAC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de069c1b-9a45-4108-934a-532be0dda867/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Hingston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I believe that you can find hope in a lot places. You can see it in a stranger's smile, feel it in a parent's embrace, or hear it in the sweet sound of an old hymn. More than any other place, I believe we look for hope in our relationships. Unfortunately, the reality for most of us is that our relationships are where we find our greatest pain. Whether we have been hurt or maybe we have done the hurting, the pain of disconnection, rejection and abandonment leave their mark on our lives.
I believe that you can find hope in a lot places. You can see it in a stranger's smile, feel it in a parent's embrace, or hear it in the sweet sound of an old hymn. More than any other place, I believe we look for hope in our relationships. Unfortunately, the reality for most of us is that our relationships are where we find our greatest pain. Whether we have been hurt or maybe we have done the hurting, the pain of disconnection, rejection and abandonment leave their mark on our lives.
![Photo of Eric Christopher Joens, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48a32552-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression overtaken your life? Asking for help takes a tremendous amount of courage. Whether you are a child or an adult, we will all need help at some point in our lives. One of my favorite quotes is “The greatest source of human suffering is the lies we tell ourselves”. Are you telling yourself that you are alone, losing control, or going crazy? Your problems are normal. And help is possible.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression overtaken your life? Asking for help takes a tremendous amount of courage. Whether you are a child or an adult, we will all need help at some point in our lives. One of my favorite quotes is “The greatest source of human suffering is the lies we tell ourselves”. Are you telling yourself that you are alone, losing control, or going crazy? Your problems are normal. And help is possible.
![Photo of J. Craig Waddle, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9d33bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
J. Craig Waddle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66204
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
![Photo of Lauri M Edwards, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b45c26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauri M Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawnee, KS 66203
Waitlist for new clients
My passion lies in working with adults, adolescents, and families. My experience has been working on a variety of issues including trauma, mood d/o, anxiety, self-exploration and understanding how our thinking affects our feelings and behavior. I enjoy assisting patients with identifying messages taken from life experiences that drive our choices and behavior in order to give each individual a better understanding of self. It is this understanding that brings awareness of habituated behavior patterns, effective communication skills and balance in our daily lives. Skills that are useful to patients outside of the therapeutic setting.
My passion lies in working with adults, adolescents, and families. My experience has been working on a variety of issues including trauma, mood d/o, anxiety, self-exploration and understanding how our thinking affects our feelings and behavior. I enjoy assisting patients with identifying messages taken from life experiences that drive our choices and behavior in order to give each individual a better understanding of self. It is this understanding that brings awareness of habituated behavior patterns, effective communication skills and balance in our daily lives. Skills that are useful to patients outside of the therapeutic setting.
![Photo of Lily Siebert, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4815f02b-a5ec-4b20-91b0-ecd9777b343a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lily Siebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
If you are a human person looking to improve and understand your experiences with living, I am here to help. Whether this is your first experience with counseling or you are well-seasoned in the ways of talk therapy, I'm glad you are exploring the idea. Counseling can and will help work through things like depression, anxiety, trauma, body image issues, relationship concerns, general dissatisfaction with life, and numerous other bumps in the road.
If you are a human person looking to improve and understand your experiences with living, I am here to help. Whether this is your first experience with counseling or you are well-seasoned in the ways of talk therapy, I'm glad you are exploring the idea. Counseling can and will help work through things like depression, anxiety, trauma, body image issues, relationship concerns, general dissatisfaction with life, and numerous other bumps in the road.
![Photo of Jenni Marie Baker, LCP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3897efc-412d-4cb2-af5a-f66d3b38ac24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel Overwhelmed, Angry, Sad, Anxious, Guilty or Hopeless About Your Situation? Do you need help Resolving past traumas, Changing negative beliefs or letting go of toxic relationships? Are you Confused about your goals moving forward and what you really want? Are you grieving or struggling with an addiction? Are you feeling out of control with your behaviors? Is it hard to communicate your needs and feelings to others? Do you lack Connection and Trust? Is your Marriage in trouble? Are you struggling to like or accept yourself? Are you continuing to Repeat the Same Mistakes? You are Not the Only one
Do you feel Overwhelmed, Angry, Sad, Anxious, Guilty or Hopeless About Your Situation? Do you need help Resolving past traumas, Changing negative beliefs or letting go of toxic relationships? Are you Confused about your goals moving forward and what you really want? Are you grieving or struggling with an addiction? Are you feeling out of control with your behaviors? Is it hard to communicate your needs and feelings to others? Do you lack Connection and Trust? Is your Marriage in trouble? Are you struggling to like or accept yourself? Are you continuing to Repeat the Same Mistakes? You are Not the Only one
![Photo of Alexandra Ross, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cd1d067-f1cd-42a9-94fa-de90bf941fc2/2/320x400.png)
Alexandra Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Hills, KS 66208
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Alex, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I utilize a variety of science-based theories and techniques, such as DBT and EMDR, that have been clinically shown to help people change, experience relief from suffering, and improve their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder. By offering unconditional acceptance and support, I provide a safe space for us to work together so that you can reach your goals.
Hi! I'm Alex, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I utilize a variety of science-based theories and techniques, such as DBT and EMDR, that have been clinically shown to help people change, experience relief from suffering, and improve their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder. By offering unconditional acceptance and support, I provide a safe space for us to work together so that you can reach your goals.
![Photo of Alicia M. Hegarty, LPC, CTP, CAIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4daef980-c422-40e5-95f3-cb63e677411e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia M. Hegarty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTP, CAIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66204 (Online Only)
In a world full of judgment, we need someone we can be vulnerable with. We need someone we can talk to about the uncomfortable thoughts and emotions associated with fears and insecurities. We need someone we can bounce ideas off of to find perspective. In a world full of judgment, we need a nonjudgmental someone who can be kind, empathetic, and psychological educated to help us grow in self and life contentment. My 32 years of cosmetology and services industry work, along with my achievement of honors in both my BA and MA, has allowed me to build acceptance, wisdom, perspective, and awareness in my therapeutic approach.
In a world full of judgment, we need someone we can be vulnerable with. We need someone we can talk to about the uncomfortable thoughts and emotions associated with fears and insecurities. We need someone we can bounce ideas off of to find perspective. In a world full of judgment, we need a nonjudgmental someone who can be kind, empathetic, and psychological educated to help us grow in self and life contentment. My 32 years of cosmetology and services industry work, along with my achievement of honors in both my BA and MA, has allowed me to build acceptance, wisdom, perspective, and awareness in my therapeutic approach.
![Photo of Ryan Allison, MA, PsyA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d580a0d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Nationally-Certified Psychoanalyst, I have been in the private practice of individual and group psychotherapy, couples therapy and psychoanalysis for the past 12 years. I have worked with a wide range of issues and have successfully treated a wide range of problems. These include (to name a few) depression, anxiety, eating disorders,problems of life, couples and group therapy, recovering from divorce or separation, substance abuse, sexual abuse, and sexual dysfunction.
In addition to my clinical work, I am also a Professor, and serve as Secretary of the local division (39) of the American Psychological Association (KCAPP).
A Nationally-Certified Psychoanalyst, I have been in the private practice of individual and group psychotherapy, couples therapy and psychoanalysis for the past 12 years. I have worked with a wide range of issues and have successfully treated a wide range of problems. These include (to name a few) depression, anxiety, eating disorders,problems of life, couples and group therapy, recovering from divorce or separation, substance abuse, sexual abuse, and sexual dysfunction.
In addition to my clinical work, I am also a Professor, and serve as Secretary of the local division (39) of the American Psychological Association (KCAPP).
![Photo of Jill Hamilton, MS , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1278584a-ecc3-4703-8843-1b580c642614/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maybe you're feeling stuck. Maybe you are seeking answers but not able to see through the darkness. Maybe peace feels impossible. Maybe you're questioning who you are or going through a life transition. Maybe it's your relationship or parenting or past hurts. This life experience is filled with highs, lows, and in-between moments. At times, we all want someone to join in our journey and walk alongside us so we can feel supported. I am here to meet you where you are in your life right now. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe that all of life is relational, whether that is within or outside with family, friends, society.
Maybe you're feeling stuck. Maybe you are seeking answers but not able to see through the darkness. Maybe peace feels impossible. Maybe you're questioning who you are or going through a life transition. Maybe it's your relationship or parenting or past hurts. This life experience is filled with highs, lows, and in-between moments. At times, we all want someone to join in our journey and walk alongside us so we can feel supported. I am here to meet you where you are in your life right now. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe that all of life is relational, whether that is within or outside with family, friends, society.
![Photo of Twoana Clark-Walker, LCSW, LSCSW, CLC, CHW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f24777d-139f-464b-b192-d43a60324611/2/320x400.jpeg)
Twoana Clark-Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, CLC, CHW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66103
I offer guidance and support through Trauma-informed Counseling and Coaching in the areas of emotional/behavioral, relational, and spiritual. I specialize in Holistic therapeutic interventions and utilize a very unique and individualized approach to empower people toward change. In either individual or group settings I work with individuals to identify areas of their lives that have become problematic. We then work together to design a "package" unique to the person or group that encompasses both internal and external resources to equip them to become positive change agents within their homes, families, and communities.
I offer guidance and support through Trauma-informed Counseling and Coaching in the areas of emotional/behavioral, relational, and spiritual. I specialize in Holistic therapeutic interventions and utilize a very unique and individualized approach to empower people toward change. In either individual or group settings I work with individuals to identify areas of their lives that have become problematic. We then work together to design a "package" unique to the person or group that encompasses both internal and external resources to equip them to become positive change agents within their homes, families, and communities.
![Photo of Heather Bedell, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd3a9eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, or just not feeling like yourself anymore? Do negative emotions or memories seem to make unexpected appearances at the worst times? If these are things you are struggling with, I can help. I provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to work through difficult emotions. I can help you or your adolescent find ways to improve the important relationships in your life, including how you feel about yourself.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, or just not feeling like yourself anymore? Do negative emotions or memories seem to make unexpected appearances at the worst times? If these are things you are struggling with, I can help. I provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to work through difficult emotions. I can help you or your adolescent find ways to improve the important relationships in your life, including how you feel about yourself.
![Photo of Kali Miller, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bff398d4-3d85-4d21-8010-d8f34b3a26a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kali Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee Mission, KS 66201
In the midst of life’s chaos, you’re grappling with uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of your emotions. Anxiety and depression wage war within, hindering your ability to express and seek help. It's tough to open up to others, fearing judgment and misunderstanding. But you're amazing, having navigated through the storm so far, let’s keep going. You're not alone - I've supported many through similar storms. Let's journey together, overcoming obstacles and finding peace, strength, and clarity amidst the chaos.
In the midst of life’s chaos, you’re grappling with uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of your emotions. Anxiety and depression wage war within, hindering your ability to express and seek help. It's tough to open up to others, fearing judgment and misunderstanding. But you're amazing, having navigated through the storm so far, let’s keep going. You're not alone - I've supported many through similar storms. Let's journey together, overcoming obstacles and finding peace, strength, and clarity amidst the chaos.
See more therapy options for Mission
Nearby Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists Searches for Mission
See More Dissociative Disorders (DID) TherapistsDissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists
How does therapy for dissociative disorders work?
Dissociation may be triggered by stress or other upsetting circumstances, and therapy can address the traumatic events at the core of an individual’s dissociation. Understanding why a person may dissociate can help the therapist and the individual come up with alternative methods of coping. A person with a dissociative disorder may get stuck on negative thinking, for example, and treatment like Cognitive behavioral therapy is a gold standard for breaking such thinking. And dialectical behavior therapy, for example, can help a person manage their anguish through better emotion regulation.
Which therapies are best for dissociative disorders?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, schema therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful memories and past traumas. These therapies work to integrate an individual's different identities into one person.
Are there specific medications for dissociation?
There are no specific medications prescribed for dissociative disorders. However, psychosis, depression, anxiety, and/or panic often co-occur in dissociative disorders. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for any accompanying symptom—which may include antipsychotics like aripiprazole, antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines.
How often and how long are therapy sessions?
Like any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. There are still other patients, especially those who have co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety, who may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months.