Therapists in Carterville, IL

Photo of Amanda Sneed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Sneed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carterville, IL 62918
Namaste! My name is Amanda Sneed, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nineteen years of clinical experience. My experience includes working with various individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, difficult life transitions, and trauma (including working with women in a domestic violence shelter). I work with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and incorporate education and mindfulness approaches in conjunction to support each other. I firmly believe that creating a safe space for people will be essential to make connections during therapy.
Namaste! My name is Amanda Sneed, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nineteen years of clinical experience. My experience includes working with various individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, difficult life transitions, and trauma (including working with women in a domestic violence shelter). I work with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and incorporate education and mindfulness approaches in conjunction to support each other. I firmly believe that creating a safe space for people will be essential to make connections during therapy.
(773) 974-8833 View (773) 974-8833
Photo of Tim Buehler - Buehler Wellness Center, LCPC, Counselor
Buehler Wellness Center
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Carterville, IL 62918
I provide counseling services to clients in Southern Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. In 2021, I founded the Buehler Wellness Center to introduce NeurOptimal neurofeedback to individuals. I strongly believed that combining neuro-somatic techniques like ART, EMDR, and Brainspotting with neurofeedback would further enhance the flexibility and resilience of our clients' brains. The positive outcomes of our services are evident in our Google reviews, and our main goal has always been to promote overall wellness by delivering effective solutions that produce noticeable results.
I provide counseling services to clients in Southern Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. In 2021, I founded the Buehler Wellness Center to introduce NeurOptimal neurofeedback to individuals. I strongly believed that combining neuro-somatic techniques like ART, EMDR, and Brainspotting with neurofeedback would further enhance the flexibility and resilience of our clients' brains. The positive outcomes of our services are evident in our Google reviews, and our main goal has always been to promote overall wellness by delivering effective solutions that produce noticeable results.
(618) 389-5254 View (618) 389-5254
Photo of Adam Jackson, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Carterville, IL 62918  (Online Only)
My hope is to offer clients a new and different perspective, and empower them to attain greater insight. I believe that every client possesses the ability to find their own path that leads to meaning, joy, and fulfillment in their life. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, or other traumatic experiences. We also address family and relationship issues, such as boundary setting, difficult life transitions, emotional abuse, and social trauma. My ideal client is one who is ready to do the hard work of self-reflection, and to seize control and responsibility for living their own best life.
My hope is to offer clients a new and different perspective, and empower them to attain greater insight. I believe that every client possesses the ability to find their own path that leads to meaning, joy, and fulfillment in their life. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, or other traumatic experiences. We also address family and relationship issues, such as boundary setting, difficult life transitions, emotional abuse, and social trauma. My ideal client is one who is ready to do the hard work of self-reflection, and to seize control and responsibility for living their own best life.
(618) 243-0502 View (618) 243-0502

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jeffrey Brower - LifeThrive T M S, MD
LifeThrive T M S
MD
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
(618) 620-1882 x1 View (618) 620-1882 x1
Photo of Dr. Jacquelyn A Muniz, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jacquelyn A Muniz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Understanding-Professionalism-Compassion-Confidentiality-Hope-Help There are times in life when we need help coping. We need better tools to help us navigate the stressors which surface as we go through life. We need help understanding our emotions and our reactions and how to work for positive changes. We might have behaviors that are holding us back that we need assistance in addressing. Sometimes we feel stuck and unable to make and carry out the plans that would improve our situation. I want you to know that help is available and to encourage you to get the support you need to have the life you want and deserve.
Understanding-Professionalism-Compassion-Confidentiality-Hope-Help There are times in life when we need help coping. We need better tools to help us navigate the stressors which surface as we go through life. We need help understanding our emotions and our reactions and how to work for positive changes. We might have behaviors that are holding us back that we need assistance in addressing. Sometimes we feel stuck and unable to make and carry out the plans that would improve our situation. I want you to know that help is available and to encourage you to get the support you need to have the life you want and deserve.
(618) 668-0642 View (618) 668-0642
Photo of Erin Wold, LPCC
Erin Wold
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Erin has 5 years of clinical counseling experience, from residential, inpatient and outpatient care. Erin has passion to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples as healthy relationships are the foundation for support to overcome hardships and trauma to create a more meaningful life. I prefer to work with adults and children who have past trauma experiences who need to develop coping and communication skills to express needs, set boundaries and manage emotions.
Erin has 5 years of clinical counseling experience, from residential, inpatient and outpatient care. Erin has passion to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples as healthy relationships are the foundation for support to overcome hardships and trauma to create a more meaningful life. I prefer to work with adults and children who have past trauma experiences who need to develop coping and communication skills to express needs, set boundaries and manage emotions.
(773) 345-9646 View (773) 345-9646
Photo of Evonne Stephenson, MS, LCPC
Evonne Stephenson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 740-3607 x1 View (618) 740-3607 x1
Photo of Alex Stevens, LPC Intern
Alex Stevens
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
No two people are alike and that's the same way I treat therapy. Your therapy is just that..yours. I take a multidisciplinary and individualized approach to offer support that is genuine and non-judgmental. I offer a comfortable atmosphere that allows for genuine growth that creates a positive change.
No two people are alike and that's the same way I treat therapy. Your therapy is just that..yours. I take a multidisciplinary and individualized approach to offer support that is genuine and non-judgmental. I offer a comfortable atmosphere that allows for genuine growth that creates a positive change.
(618) 602-2430 x1 View (618) 602-2430 x1
Photo of Brittany Brookshire, LCPC, Counselor
Brittany Brookshire
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marion, IL 62959  (Online Only)
Are you feeling paralyzed by anxiety or uncertainty? Are you feeling stuck in your daily life? Are you going through a major life transition? Do you want to get to know yourself better, or learn better tools for managing? If this sounds familiar to you, I might be the counselor for you! Many of my clients are people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and adult ADHD, or those going through grief, stress, or a curveball life has thrown their way.
Are you feeling paralyzed by anxiety or uncertainty? Are you feeling stuck in your daily life? Are you going through a major life transition? Do you want to get to know yourself better, or learn better tools for managing? If this sounds familiar to you, I might be the counselor for you! Many of my clients are people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and adult ADHD, or those going through grief, stress, or a curveball life has thrown their way.
(872) 274-2313 View (872) 274-2313
Photo of Megan Harmon, MS, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Harmon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP
Verified Verified
Carbondale, IL 62901
Not accepting new clients
Finding a balance in life can be challenging, these days. In our complex world and demanding lives, we often find ourselves with feelings of stress, anxiety and depression without knowing how to cope. As a psychotherapist, I can help identify the root causes and how to manage them with a full assessment, diagnosis and treatment plan. I don't believe that one therapeutic approach fits all. I take an eclectic approach to therapy. I like to listen to my clients issues, establish a healthy working relationship, and draw from different theories and techniques that are appropriate to meet their needs and improve their quality of life.
Finding a balance in life can be challenging, these days. In our complex world and demanding lives, we often find ourselves with feelings of stress, anxiety and depression without knowing how to cope. As a psychotherapist, I can help identify the root causes and how to manage them with a full assessment, diagnosis and treatment plan. I don't believe that one therapeutic approach fits all. I take an eclectic approach to therapy. I like to listen to my clients issues, establish a healthy working relationship, and draw from different theories and techniques that are appropriate to meet their needs and improve their quality of life.
View
Photo of Megan Fletcher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Welcome! Feeling overwhelmed and unsure on where to start? One thing about me, I am passionate about assisting my patients through life transitions and improving their quality of life. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and pursuing the journey of self-discovery and purpose in life. I am a trauma informed provider and take a select amount patients with a focus on PTSD, childhood experiences and attachment. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy.
Welcome! Feeling overwhelmed and unsure on where to start? One thing about me, I am passionate about assisting my patients through life transitions and improving their quality of life. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and pursuing the journey of self-discovery and purpose in life. I am a trauma informed provider and take a select amount patients with a focus on PTSD, childhood experiences and attachment. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy.
(618) 591-2635 View (618) 591-2635
Photo of Mark M Schloemann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark M Schloemann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
As a therapist with over 40 years of experience, I believe the patient and therapist relationship is the foundation needed to provide a safe environment to help others develop healthier adaptive responses to life challenges.
As a therapist with over 40 years of experience, I believe the patient and therapist relationship is the foundation needed to provide a safe environment to help others develop healthier adaptive responses to life challenges.
(618) 620-1951 View (618) 620-1951
Photo of Megan Bates, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Bates
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
(618) 495-3544 View (618) 495-3544
Photo of Austin Fishback, MSE, Pre-Licensed Professional
Austin Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSE
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
(618) 243-0288 View (618) 243-0288
Photo of Rachel Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959  (Online Only)
Hi there, I admire you for recognizing your courage seek mindful transformation! I specialize with disorders such as, Traumatic experiences, devastation, grief, anxiety, depression and, Borderline personality disorder. As a member of the NASW, Educator of the Trauma fellowship, I'm an eclectic therapist with a variety of specialties using DBT to assist with Borderline, A.R.T and EMDR for Trauma work, CBT and ACT to process Grief and a variety of other evidence based practices.
Hi there, I admire you for recognizing your courage seek mindful transformation! I specialize with disorders such as, Traumatic experiences, devastation, grief, anxiety, depression and, Borderline personality disorder. As a member of the NASW, Educator of the Trauma fellowship, I'm an eclectic therapist with a variety of specialties using DBT to assist with Borderline, A.R.T and EMDR for Trauma work, CBT and ACT to process Grief and a variety of other evidence based practices.
(618) 300-5748 View (618) 300-5748
Photo of Jessica Moreno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herrin, IL 62948
Hello! My name is Jessica Moreno, and I currently hold my LCSW. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. I have worked with people who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. I'm comfortable treating the previously noted diagnosis. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. try to create an open and interactive environment in which clients can express themselves.
Hello! My name is Jessica Moreno, and I currently hold my LCSW. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. I have worked with people who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. I'm comfortable treating the previously noted diagnosis. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. try to create an open and interactive environment in which clients can express themselves.
(872) 266-2943 View (872) 266-2943
Photo of Alaina Brown, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alaina Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.
‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.
(618) 602-2463 View (618) 602-2463
Photo of Savannah McCall, LCPC, RPT
Savannah McCall
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marion, IL 62959
You're hurting. You wake up each morning not sure how (or even if) you'll be able to make it through the day. Overwhelming thoughts and emotions threaten to overtake you. Anxiety and self-doubt may be constant, unwelcome companions. Memories that you don't want to recall may be constantly creeping into your thoughts. And all of these things affect your life in ways that aren't working for you. Whether it's the impact on your performance at work, relationships with family and friends, disruptions in sleep, or all of the above, you just don't feel like you can keep going. I am here for you.
You're hurting. You wake up each morning not sure how (or even if) you'll be able to make it through the day. Overwhelming thoughts and emotions threaten to overtake you. Anxiety and self-doubt may be constant, unwelcome companions. Memories that you don't want to recall may be constantly creeping into your thoughts. And all of these things affect your life in ways that aren't working for you. Whether it's the impact on your performance at work, relationships with family and friends, disruptions in sleep, or all of the above, you just don't feel like you can keep going. I am here for you.
(618) 495-3870 View (618) 495-3870
Photo of Dr. Rachel Mae Dawkins, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Rachel Mae Dawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I am qualified to help clients with trauma using EMDR and TFCBT. I also have experience with addiction and substance use treatment. I have experience with couples, individuals, families, and adolescents.
I am qualified to help clients with trauma using EMDR and TFCBT. I also have experience with addiction and substance use treatment. I have experience with couples, individuals, families, and adolescents.
View
Photo of Lisa Feldmann, LCPC, Counselor
Lisa Feldmann
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Herrin, IL 62948  (Online Only)
Hello! So glad you are here! Do you get into relationships hoping that this time things will be different? Do you feel overwhelmed and have a hard time exploring and working towards your goals or just life fulfillment? Would you like a more kind and loving relationship with yourself? I love helping people who are ready to identify patterns that hold them back from happiness and fulfillment in both relationship and other areas of life.
Hello! So glad you are here! Do you get into relationships hoping that this time things will be different? Do you feel overwhelmed and have a hard time exploring and working towards your goals or just life fulfillment? Would you like a more kind and loving relationship with yourself? I love helping people who are ready to identify patterns that hold them back from happiness and fulfillment in both relationship and other areas of life.
(618) 226-8952 View (618) 226-8952

See more therapy options for Carterville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Carterville, IL

< 10

Therapists in Carterville, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Parenting
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Family Conflict
100% Peer Relationships

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in Carterville, IL see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Carterville?

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.