Therapists in Troy, PA

Photo of Diana Lea Holton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Lea Holton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Troy, PA 16947
The counseling approach is determined by the client's preference and personal goals as well as the nature of the issue. Any approach will incorporate a strengths-based, client-centered focus that seeks to enhance a person's level of motivation for personal growth and change. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.
The counseling approach is determined by the client's preference and personal goals as well as the nature of the issue. Any approach will incorporate a strengths-based, client-centered focus that seeks to enhance a person's level of motivation for personal growth and change. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.
(570) 206-8256 View (570) 206-8256

Online Therapists

Photo of Cortnee L Shuey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cortnee L Shuey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pine Grove Mills, PA 16868  (Online Only)
Hello there! Thank you for stopping by, and congratulations on taking the first step towards a more self-improved you. I have been in the mental health field for almost 15 years, practicing as an LPC for almost 3 years. Counseling can be scary but being open to change and vulnerability shows great courage. I have always been passionate about people, and helping others, showing compassionate and empathy. As a valued listener, people often seek me out when they have experienced personal issues, trauma and stressors.
Hello there! Thank you for stopping by, and congratulations on taking the first step towards a more self-improved you. I have been in the mental health field for almost 15 years, practicing as an LPC for almost 3 years. Counseling can be scary but being open to change and vulnerability shows great courage. I have always been passionate about people, and helping others, showing compassionate and empathy. As a valued listener, people often seek me out when they have experienced personal issues, trauma and stressors.
(814) 259-8061 View (814) 259-8061
Photo of Steven Mehl, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Mehl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kunkletown, PA 18058  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, older adults and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. I have worked with clients with different levels of motivation, ability level and insight. I draw satisfaction from helping clients raise awareness, insight, motivation and develop effective coping and habits. Change is a gradual process, that can move either quickly or slowly, depending on where someone is at in the overall change process. Momentum towards one's goal(s) and towards problem resolution can be nurtured through open communication, self compassion and an openness to learning.
I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, older adults and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. I have worked with clients with different levels of motivation, ability level and insight. I draw satisfaction from helping clients raise awareness, insight, motivation and develop effective coping and habits. Change is a gradual process, that can move either quickly or slowly, depending on where someone is at in the overall change process. Momentum towards one's goal(s) and towards problem resolution can be nurtured through open communication, self compassion and an openness to learning.
(484) 310-8889 View (484) 310-8889
Photo of Lyndi Roberts, LSW, HSV
Lyndi Roberts
LSW, HSV
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawley, PA 18428
Hi there, I'm Lyndi! First, I want to congratulate you for taking this time to focus on yourself and your mental health. Life can be overwhelming and if our mental health is struggling, often it can impact all aspects of life including our physical health. Whether you are new to the counseling process or continuing your journey, finding the right therapist you can connect with is one of the most important parts of the process.
Hi there, I'm Lyndi! First, I want to congratulate you for taking this time to focus on yourself and your mental health. Life can be overwhelming and if our mental health is struggling, often it can impact all aspects of life including our physical health. Whether you are new to the counseling process or continuing your journey, finding the right therapist you can connect with is one of the most important parts of the process.
(272) 225-6453 View (272) 225-6453
Photo of Cynthia Anne Conklin, LCSW, CCTP, CMHIMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Anne Conklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Millheim, PA 16854
Your Story Matters and So Do You! Each of us tell ourselves a story about who we are, what we believe, and where we come from. Understanding our story releases the capacity to influence it in creative and valuable ways. Using complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will explore cognitive perceptions and behavioral strategies to help promote resiliency, balance, and emotional prosperity. Focusing on your unique strengths, the goal is to move through any challenging situation you may be facing right now and tap into your true potential allowing you to enjoy a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience.
Your Story Matters and So Do You! Each of us tell ourselves a story about who we are, what we believe, and where we come from. Understanding our story releases the capacity to influence it in creative and valuable ways. Using complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will explore cognitive perceptions and behavioral strategies to help promote resiliency, balance, and emotional prosperity. Focusing on your unique strengths, the goal is to move through any challenging situation you may be facing right now and tap into your true potential allowing you to enjoy a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience.
(814) 980-7961 View (814) 980-7961
Photo of Dr. Chet Muklewicz, EdD, Psychologist
Dr. Chet Muklewicz
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18509
I partner with my patients to find solutions to their life challenges. Often, they want to feel better, improve relationship communication, help a child, handle a situational problem, or cope with a difficult life transition. I treat both children and adults for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, emotional dysregulation and problems related to separation and divorce. I also provide couples counseling, co-parenting, and parent coaching. Think of me as a copilot helping patients navigate their way to a better place. I rely on a variety of evidence-based therapeutic orientations to craft customized treatment plans.
I partner with my patients to find solutions to their life challenges. Often, they want to feel better, improve relationship communication, help a child, handle a situational problem, or cope with a difficult life transition. I treat both children and adults for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, emotional dysregulation and problems related to separation and divorce. I also provide couples counseling, co-parenting, and parent coaching. Think of me as a copilot helping patients navigate their way to a better place. I rely on a variety of evidence-based therapeutic orientations to craft customized treatment plans.
(570) 284-3507 View (570) 284-3507
Photo of Sara Whitney Ansell - Rose and Thorn Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rose and Thorn Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, PA 17821
At Rose and Thorn Counseling we believe that everyone has the ability to find peace and have a meaningful and fulfilling life. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that mental and emotional well-being are integral to overall health, and that therapy can be a powerful tool for achieving this balance.
At Rose and Thorn Counseling we believe that everyone has the ability to find peace and have a meaningful and fulfilling life. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that mental and emotional well-being are integral to overall health, and that therapy can be a powerful tool for achieving this balance.
(570) 802-6436 View (570) 802-6436
Photo of Wes Scala, PhD, Psychologist
Wes Scala
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801
The best way to contact me is through email with a brief statement about why you are seeking therapy. College and early career life can be especially difficult times in life to navigate, and stress can lead to unhealthy ways of coping (e.g., emotional eating, focusing too much on work, lack of self-care, etc.) and feelings of loneliness. The experiences we have can lead us to feel disconnected in various ways, from our own sense of self and values, important people in our life, and our emotions.
The best way to contact me is through email with a brief statement about why you are seeking therapy. College and early career life can be especially difficult times in life to navigate, and stress can lead to unhealthy ways of coping (e.g., emotional eating, focusing too much on work, lack of self-care, etc.) and feelings of loneliness. The experiences we have can lead us to feel disconnected in various ways, from our own sense of self and values, important people in our life, and our emotions.
(814) 205-0622 View (814) 205-0622
Photo of Pamela West, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, PA 18704
Do you struggle with having a healthy relationship with yourself and/or others? Do you feel like you’ve lost your “spark” and don’t know how to get it back? Do you ever feel like the difficult things you’ve been through or the changes you are facing are just too much for you to handle? I am here to assure you that you are not alone and there is hope! Therapy can assist you on the road to healing and change how you feel about yourself and improve your relationships with others. I would be honored to work alongside you and provide you the tools to actually create positive long lasting change.
Do you struggle with having a healthy relationship with yourself and/or others? Do you feel like you’ve lost your “spark” and don’t know how to get it back? Do you ever feel like the difficult things you’ve been through or the changes you are facing are just too much for you to handle? I am here to assure you that you are not alone and there is hope! Therapy can assist you on the road to healing and change how you feel about yourself and improve your relationships with others. I would be honored to work alongside you and provide you the tools to actually create positive long lasting change.
(272) 205-5639 View (272) 205-5639
Photo of Brent Rounsville, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brent Rounsville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bradford, PA 16701
Hi! My name is Brent. I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space where we can discuss any concerns and gain more insight into your anxiety, depression, or trauma. We will work together as a team to identify your strengths, develop therapeutic goals, and learn new tools to better your own well-being. I can also work with you on managing any behaviors in the home your child may be struggling with.
Hi! My name is Brent. I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space where we can discuss any concerns and gain more insight into your anxiety, depression, or trauma. We will work together as a team to identify your strengths, develop therapeutic goals, and learn new tools to better your own well-being. I can also work with you on managing any behaviors in the home your child may be struggling with.
(412) 754-3822 View (412) 754-3822
Photo of Leah Losavich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Losavich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
(272) 268-7453 View (272) 268-7453
Photo of Carl Heffermehl, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carl Heffermehl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience working with individuals to help them with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, relationships, and interpersonal issues across their life. I mainly work with individuals, one-on-one, but have worked with couples and families, and troubled populations like youth on probation. My goal is to help individuals find a balance in their life where they are able to reduce their mental health stress/impact, and their overall life stress, by establishing and implementing healthy balance, coping skills, and boundaries in their life to improve not only their life, but their sense of self.
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience working with individuals to help them with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, relationships, and interpersonal issues across their life. I mainly work with individuals, one-on-one, but have worked with couples and families, and troubled populations like youth on probation. My goal is to help individuals find a balance in their life where they are able to reduce their mental health stress/impact, and their overall life stress, by establishing and implementing healthy balance, coping skills, and boundaries in their life to improve not only their life, but their sense of self.
(717) 912-9718 View (717) 912-9718
Photo of Kelly Vermeerensmith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Vermeerensmith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
I am a licensed clinical social worker that specializes in applied behavior analysis and dual diagnosis with 12 years of experience. I have been successful in working with people find obtainable and realistic solutions to their problems. I want to help people gain new insight and self-awareness while developing healthy skills to address stressors
I am a licensed clinical social worker that specializes in applied behavior analysis and dual diagnosis with 12 years of experience. I have been successful in working with people find obtainable and realistic solutions to their problems. I want to help people gain new insight and self-awareness while developing healthy skills to address stressors
(570) 672-5705 View (570) 672-5705
Photo of Michelle Zapotoski - Mountaintop Counseling LLC, LPC, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mountaintop Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountain Top, PA 18707
Sometimes it just seems like we are going through life without direction. Sometimes we have never really been able to express who we are to another person. Sometimes we just feel lost. Whatever the reason, know that you don’t have to go through each day feeling this way. Through counseling, you can learn what the next steps might be for you and how to manage your thoughts and emotions. At Mountaintop Counseling, we will be empathetic and honest. The therapeutic alliance can be such a powerful force to help you see your issues in a different light.
Sometimes it just seems like we are going through life without direction. Sometimes we have never really been able to express who we are to another person. Sometimes we just feel lost. Whatever the reason, know that you don’t have to go through each day feeling this way. Through counseling, you can learn what the next steps might be for you and how to manage your thoughts and emotions. At Mountaintop Counseling, we will be empathetic and honest. The therapeutic alliance can be such a powerful force to help you see your issues in a different light.
(570) 600-5658 View (570) 600-5658
Photo of Krystin Devine, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krystin Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Selinsgrove, PA 17870
LIfe can be challenging. We struggle, we make mistakes, we suffer loss, and we are often faced with uncertainty. My work is geared towards allowing individuals and couples to gain relief and grow from these experiences. I can help you navigate through relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger, and other hardships life may bring.
LIfe can be challenging. We struggle, we make mistakes, we suffer loss, and we are often faced with uncertainty. My work is geared towards allowing individuals and couples to gain relief and grow from these experiences. I can help you navigate through relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger, and other hardships life may bring.
(570) 373-9512 View (570) 373-9512
Photo of Paul Janeski - Paul Janeski Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Janeski Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Clarks Summit, PA 18411  (Online Only)
The voice in the head has a life of its own. Most people are at the mercy of that voice; they are possessed by thought & by the mind. Since the mind is conditioned by the past, you are then forced to reenact the past again and again. This quote by Eckart Tolle is at the core of my belief in what troubles most of us. We live in our minds, incessantly thinking about our fears, failings, troubled relationships, losses, & shortcomings. We spend too much time inside the mind. The trouble is that when we treat our thoughts and feelings as facts, we allow anxiety, doubt, sadness, hopelessness & self-loathing to take hold and thrive.
The voice in the head has a life of its own. Most people are at the mercy of that voice; they are possessed by thought & by the mind. Since the mind is conditioned by the past, you are then forced to reenact the past again and again. This quote by Eckart Tolle is at the core of my belief in what troubles most of us. We live in our minds, incessantly thinking about our fears, failings, troubled relationships, losses, & shortcomings. We spend too much time inside the mind. The trouble is that when we treat our thoughts and feelings as facts, we allow anxiety, doubt, sadness, hopelessness & self-loathing to take hold and thrive.
(570) 279-4708 View (570) 279-4708
Photo of Amber Thomas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellefonte, PA 16823
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked & trained in the mental health field for more than 10 years. During the course of my career, I have had the privilege of working with clients who were diverse in the areas of age, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability status, socioeconomic status, & spiritual/religious affiliation. I have worked in various settings & in different roles such as an Outpatient Therapist, a Mental Health Professional in a Partial Hospitalization Program, a Sexual Assault Counselor in a Domestic Violence Shelter & an Assistant Director of Clinical Services in a psychiatric hospital.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked & trained in the mental health field for more than 10 years. During the course of my career, I have had the privilege of working with clients who were diverse in the areas of age, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability status, socioeconomic status, & spiritual/religious affiliation. I have worked in various settings & in different roles such as an Outpatient Therapist, a Mental Health Professional in a Partial Hospitalization Program, a Sexual Assault Counselor in a Domestic Violence Shelter & an Assistant Director of Clinical Services in a psychiatric hospital.
(814) 257-5062 View (814) 257-5062
Photo of Deanna Dixon, Deanna Dixon, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, Deanna Dixon, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mountain Top, PA 18707
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a broad spectrum of needs which include but are not limited to Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Level One Autism, and Mood Disorders. I also have some experience working with Borderline Personality Disorder. I've practiced with my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling since 2019 in a variety of settings which have included School Based and Outpatient. Prior to completing my Master's degree I spent 6 years working in Autism under a Behavioral Consultant. I work with lifespan, typically starting at the age of 4, and assist in identifying individual needs and goals and forming individualized treatment.
I work with a broad spectrum of needs which include but are not limited to Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Level One Autism, and Mood Disorders. I also have some experience working with Borderline Personality Disorder. I've practiced with my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling since 2019 in a variety of settings which have included School Based and Outpatient. Prior to completing my Master's degree I spent 6 years working in Autism under a Behavioral Consultant. I work with lifespan, typically starting at the age of 4, and assist in identifying individual needs and goals and forming individualized treatment.
(570) 483-9795 View (570) 483-9795
Photo of Diana C. Cuello, PhD, Psychologist
Diana C. Cuello
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mountain Top, PA 18707  (Online Only)
Let's invent together a way beyond your suffering or problematic repetitions. I use creative language play to release unconscious tensions manifesting as symptoms. In psychoanalysis you can elevate your agency by recognizing your own unfolding processes without the pressure to change. My attention will be focused on the linguistic and homophonous patterns of your unconscious as manifested in your speech, with the aim of distilling the suffering from your words and possibly producing a creative practice in its stead. To that end I will invite you to speak.
Let's invent together a way beyond your suffering or problematic repetitions. I use creative language play to release unconscious tensions manifesting as symptoms. In psychoanalysis you can elevate your agency by recognizing your own unfolding processes without the pressure to change. My attention will be focused on the linguistic and homophonous patterns of your unconscious as manifested in your speech, with the aim of distilling the suffering from your words and possibly producing a creative practice in its stead. To that end I will invite you to speak.
(570) 471-5727 View (570) 471-5727
Photo of Kelsey Williams, MEd, NCC
Kelsey Williams
Associate Professional Counselor , MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
I enjoy supporting young adults 17+ and adults who feel "stuck" and desire to heal from past trauma or PTSD, improve relationships, navigate current overwhelming situations, change unhelpful/harmful behaviors, develop emotional experiencing skills, strengthen executive functioning or increase self-understanding to build a life with less unnecessary suffering and more commitment towards what matters most. I love working with people from a variety of backgrounds, cultures and identities (including LGBTQIA+ and ADHD/Autistic folks) and commit to honoring each diverse experience.
I enjoy supporting young adults 17+ and adults who feel "stuck" and desire to heal from past trauma or PTSD, improve relationships, navigate current overwhelming situations, change unhelpful/harmful behaviors, develop emotional experiencing skills, strengthen executive functioning or increase self-understanding to build a life with less unnecessary suffering and more commitment towards what matters most. I love working with people from a variety of backgrounds, cultures and identities (including LGBTQIA+ and ADHD/Autistic folks) and commit to honoring each diverse experience.
(814) 801-3289 View (814) 801-3289

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Troy, PA

< 10

Therapists in Troy, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Life Coaching

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Troy, PA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Troy?

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.