Therapists in Huffman, TX

Photo of Quinn Heavrin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Quinn Heavrin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huffman, TX 77336
Hi! My name is Quinn, and I am here to offer hope and practical solutions to the emotional, behavioral or mental struggle causing you stress or pain. Whether you have been privately dealing with this struggle for years or just want to tackle some current life issues head on, I am ready to help you begin a proactive journey of growth that will lead you toward healing, repair and enjoyment in your everyday life and relationships.
Hi! My name is Quinn, and I am here to offer hope and practical solutions to the emotional, behavioral or mental struggle causing you stress or pain. Whether you have been privately dealing with this struggle for years or just want to tackle some current life issues head on, I am ready to help you begin a proactive journey of growth that will lead you toward healing, repair and enjoyment in your everyday life and relationships.
(281) 801-5828 View (281) 801-5828
Photo of Wendy C McWhorter, MABC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy C McWhorter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABC, LPC
Verified Verified
Huffman, TX 77336
Wendy works with adults and teens dealing with trauma, anxiety and depression among other difficulties.
Wendy works with adults and teens dealing with trauma, anxiety and depression among other difficulties.
(281) 626-8683 View (281) 626-8683

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sabrina Morales, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Have you been seeking change, but cannot quite find your route? Are you or your child struggling, but have not found help? Have you noticed changes in your child’s mood, appearance, or behavior? Are you or your child coping with feelings of anger, anxiety and depression or feelings of worthlessness? If you are, I can help by providing evidence-based treatments and approaches specific to the issues you are currently experiencing.
Have you been seeking change, but cannot quite find your route? Are you or your child struggling, but have not found help? Have you noticed changes in your child’s mood, appearance, or behavior? Are you or your child coping with feelings of anger, anxiety and depression or feelings of worthlessness? If you are, I can help by providing evidence-based treatments and approaches specific to the issues you are currently experiencing.
(281) 609-3237 View (281) 609-3237
Photo of Hannah Hanz, MEd, LPC A
Hannah Hanz
LPC Associate, MEd, LPC A
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Welcome! My goal as a counselor is to create warm, genuine, authentic, and empathetic relationships with my clients. My theoretical approach is primarily person-centered, but I integrate other research-backed techniques as well. I believe that every person possesses the innate ability and responsibility to change, and I will act as a facilitator for this change process. My treatment approach is unique for every client, as we develop a plan to reach your goals.
Welcome! My goal as a counselor is to create warm, genuine, authentic, and empathetic relationships with my clients. My theoretical approach is primarily person-centered, but I integrate other research-backed techniques as well. I believe that every person possesses the innate ability and responsibility to change, and I will act as a facilitator for this change process. My treatment approach is unique for every client, as we develop a plan to reach your goals.
(281) 990-4082 View (281) 990-4082
Photo of Marcia Jackson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcia Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
If you are looking at this website maybe it is because it feels like something is missing, or the knot in your stomach is telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your chest is tense or your throat is tight and you really are struggling to figure out the reason. If this sounds like you, therapy might be exactly the starting place to understand the messages your body and mind are sending you. Therapy is a partnership that requires commitment from both therapist and client and I want my clients to know that I am fully invested in the process. I will continually strive to learn and grow alongside you.
If you are looking at this website maybe it is because it feels like something is missing, or the knot in your stomach is telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your chest is tense or your throat is tight and you really are struggling to figure out the reason. If this sounds like you, therapy might be exactly the starting place to understand the messages your body and mind are sending you. Therapy is a partnership that requires commitment from both therapist and client and I want my clients to know that I am fully invested in the process. I will continually strive to learn and grow alongside you.
(281) 248-8938 View (281) 248-8938
Photo of Ellen Ortega, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77345  (Online Only)
I believe that hope for improvement or personal growth requires two things. The first is willpower, or motivation for change. If you're considering therapy, you probably already have that. The second is Waypower, or clarity on what the path forward looks like. If you know you want to make some changes but you're not sure how to get there, that's where I can help. If you are looking for relief from symptoms of anxiety or depression...if you are navigating a major life transition and it feels harder than you think it should...if you are feeling "stuck"... or your relationships are not quite what you want them to be, therapy can help.
I believe that hope for improvement or personal growth requires two things. The first is willpower, or motivation for change. If you're considering therapy, you probably already have that. The second is Waypower, or clarity on what the path forward looks like. If you know you want to make some changes but you're not sure how to get there, that's where I can help. If you are looking for relief from symptoms of anxiety or depression...if you are navigating a major life transition and it feels harder than you think it should...if you are feeling "stuck"... or your relationships are not quite what you want them to be, therapy can help.
(281) 699-9674 View (281) 699-9674
Photo of Capstone Connect Pllc Counseling And Trauma Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Capstone Connect Pllc Counseling And Trauma Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Hi I'm Margo, I know life can be hard; you don't have to navigate it alone. I believe in creating a nonjudgmental environment where all clients can feel safe. I am open to working with all individuals. My passion for helping others has been evident throughout the last 20 years of working with children and families. Through my experiences I have learned how to interact with a diverse group of people, which has increased my ability to relate to others. I am passionate about walking alongside clients as they navigate changes and growth. I would be honored in working together with you in creating a journey of joy, peace, and healing.
Hi I'm Margo, I know life can be hard; you don't have to navigate it alone. I believe in creating a nonjudgmental environment where all clients can feel safe. I am open to working with all individuals. My passion for helping others has been evident throughout the last 20 years of working with children and families. Through my experiences I have learned how to interact with a diverse group of people, which has increased my ability to relate to others. I am passionate about walking alongside clients as they navigate changes and growth. I would be honored in working together with you in creating a journey of joy, peace, and healing.
(281) 290-4551 View (281) 290-4551
Photo of Kenya L Moore - Capstone Connect PLLC Counseling & Trauma Services, LMSW
Capstone Connect PLLC Counseling & Trauma Services
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Hello, I'm Kenya L Moore, LMSW. Welcome to a safe space of healing and wholeness! I am honored to have the opportunity to partner with you on your counseling journey. I am passionate about whole-person healing that addresses the mind, body, and soul. I am fully aware that experiences of trauma, hurt, and wounds can cause instabilities in mental and emotional wellbeing. This awareness helps me connect with those I serve. I desire to create a welcoming space for clients to come as they are without fear of judgment. I am passionate about working with young children, pre-teens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Hello, I'm Kenya L Moore, LMSW. Welcome to a safe space of healing and wholeness! I am honored to have the opportunity to partner with you on your counseling journey. I am passionate about whole-person healing that addresses the mind, body, and soul. I am fully aware that experiences of trauma, hurt, and wounds can cause instabilities in mental and emotional wellbeing. This awareness helps me connect with those I serve. I desire to create a welcoming space for clients to come as they are without fear of judgment. I am passionate about working with young children, pre-teens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(281) 306-5032 View (281) 306-5032
Photo of Deanna Ramirez, LPC-A, MEd
Deanna Ramirez
LPC Associate, LPC-A, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346
My name is Deanna Ramirez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Vikki Sears, LPC-S. I want you to know that I see you. I hear you. I help people grow through the uneasy transitions, the uncomfortable feelings, and the challenging emotional storms that we go through as we journey through life. I work with children, teens, and adults in many areas but my specialty is in navigating issues with identity, dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and emotional regulation, so they feel more connected and whole.
My name is Deanna Ramirez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Vikki Sears, LPC-S. I want you to know that I see you. I hear you. I help people grow through the uneasy transitions, the uncomfortable feelings, and the challenging emotional storms that we go through as we journey through life. I work with children, teens, and adults in many areas but my specialty is in navigating issues with identity, dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and emotional regulation, so they feel more connected and whole.
(832) 909-1748 View (832) 909-1748
Photo of Jonathan Rea, MS , Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Rea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
Are you experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety; addiction; or the residual effects of trauma? I believe that you, as the client, are the expert of your own story. I am here to provide you with a unique personalized approach to psychotherapy that is person-centered; and focuses on your strengths and your potential. If you are someone who experienced relational trauma as a child, you may be experiencing difficulty navigating relationships as an adult. Through a therapeutic relationship, you will find a stepping stone from which to develop a more meaningful way of being in the world.
Are you experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety; addiction; or the residual effects of trauma? I believe that you, as the client, are the expert of your own story. I am here to provide you with a unique personalized approach to psychotherapy that is person-centered; and focuses on your strengths and your potential. If you are someone who experienced relational trauma as a child, you may be experiencing difficulty navigating relationships as an adult. Through a therapeutic relationship, you will find a stepping stone from which to develop a more meaningful way of being in the world.
(281) 549-8518 View (281) 549-8518
Photo of Dr. Esmeralda Delgadillo, DPC, LPC, NCC, CCSAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Esmeralda Delgadillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC, NCC, CCSAS
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Dr. Delgadillo specializes in marriage and relationship counseling with a focus on therapy for couples experiencing infidelity, pornography, sexual addictions and intimacy disorders. Counseling from a perspective of accountability, mutual respect and transparency, her approach provides for a strong foundation and catalyst towards restoration and recovery.
Dr. Delgadillo specializes in marriage and relationship counseling with a focus on therapy for couples experiencing infidelity, pornography, sexual addictions and intimacy disorders. Counseling from a perspective of accountability, mutual respect and transparency, her approach provides for a strong foundation and catalyst towards restoration and recovery.
(281) 677-3501 View (281) 677-3501
Photo of Calien 'cat' Choi - Nova Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nova Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
We totally get that starting therapy can feel intimidating which is why were giving therapy a modern makeover, making it cooler and more relatable than ever. Therapy is about understanding the self that you are and sometimes getting to know yourself is to unknow yourself. It's all about being real and feeling heard, exactly as you are in a space where you're free to be YOU. The greatest act of self-love is to no longer accept a life you are unhappy with. Happiness is not something you can chase. It is something you have to allow. If trauma can be passed down so can healing.
We totally get that starting therapy can feel intimidating which is why were giving therapy a modern makeover, making it cooler and more relatable than ever. Therapy is about understanding the self that you are and sometimes getting to know yourself is to unknow yourself. It's all about being real and feeling heard, exactly as you are in a space where you're free to be YOU. The greatest act of self-love is to no longer accept a life you are unhappy with. Happiness is not something you can chase. It is something you have to allow. If trauma can be passed down so can healing.
(281) 843-9256 View (281) 843-9256
Photo of Yolanda Cosey, EdD, MA, LCPC, NCC, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yolanda Cosey
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LCPC, NCC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Hello! Do you find it difficult to stay focused, falling and remaining asleep, or enjoy daily activities? Are you looking for a counselor who is willing to listen to your concerns? Look no further, I am dedicated to welcoming those who are experiencing challenges in their lives and find themselves needing support, safety, and comfort in order to create improved relationships and better lives. I offer a nonjudgmental and safe environment where we can explore challenges and develop solutions together. The use of talk therapy helps us gain a better understanding of ourselves, our patterns and our goals.
Hello! Do you find it difficult to stay focused, falling and remaining asleep, or enjoy daily activities? Are you looking for a counselor who is willing to listen to your concerns? Look no further, I am dedicated to welcoming those who are experiencing challenges in their lives and find themselves needing support, safety, and comfort in order to create improved relationships and better lives. I offer a nonjudgmental and safe environment where we can explore challenges and develop solutions together. The use of talk therapy helps us gain a better understanding of ourselves, our patterns and our goals.
(281) 572-8606 View (281) 572-8606
Photo of Pamela Salaam, MSSW, LCSW, Counselor
Pamela Salaam
Counselor, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77345  (Online Only)
Who among us hasn't felt out-of-sync, overwhelmed or alone? It's not a matter of if something hits us, but when, and I'm not being pessimistic. What determines how well we ride out a crisis is how many healthy coping skills we learn through our life transitions. Even a loving family can’t teach what it doesn’t know. I want clients coming to therapy with me to know that therapy is not about changing you, but about evolving into your more authentic self, dropping unhelpful thinking habits that keep us imprisoned in old hurts, and learning to forgive ourselves & others for not knowing any better. “When we know better, we do better.”
Who among us hasn't felt out-of-sync, overwhelmed or alone? It's not a matter of if something hits us, but when, and I'm not being pessimistic. What determines how well we ride out a crisis is how many healthy coping skills we learn through our life transitions. Even a loving family can’t teach what it doesn’t know. I want clients coming to therapy with me to know that therapy is not about changing you, but about evolving into your more authentic self, dropping unhelpful thinking habits that keep us imprisoned in old hurts, and learning to forgive ourselves & others for not knowing any better. “When we know better, we do better.”
(832) 663-0750 View (832) 663-0750
Photo of Bilalah Turner, LPC- A, MEd
Bilalah Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC- A, MEd
Verified Verified
New Caney, TX 77357  (Online Only)
Sometimes life brings its challenges and a need for help. Dealing with the past, working through the present, and uncertainty about the future can leave us with feelings of frustration, confusion, and lack of security. However when we do the needed self-work, we find healing of our hearts and soul. Be lifted dispite your past... Be shifted in your present circumstances... Be elevated into your God given destiny through professional counseling and therapeutic practices with Texas Therapy Coach, PLLC. Let's work together to for your true healing!
Sometimes life brings its challenges and a need for help. Dealing with the past, working through the present, and uncertainty about the future can leave us with feelings of frustration, confusion, and lack of security. However when we do the needed self-work, we find healing of our hearts and soul. Be lifted dispite your past... Be shifted in your present circumstances... Be elevated into your God given destiny through professional counseling and therapeutic practices with Texas Therapy Coach, PLLC. Let's work together to for your true healing!
(346) 584-4255 View (346) 584-4255
Photo of Crystal Baxter - Embracing Minds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Embracing Minds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77338
My preferred clientele consists of individuals, couples, and families willing to engage in introspection and embark on a journey of personal growth and healing. I seek clients committed to attaining their objectives and striving toward self-improvement.
My preferred clientele consists of individuals, couples, and families willing to engage in introspection and embark on a journey of personal growth and healing. I seek clients committed to attaining their objectives and striving toward self-improvement.
(281) 916-8889 View (281) 916-8889
Photo of Sherry Butler Loeb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry Butler Loeb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Sherry Butler Loeb is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2002. She earned an MS in Counseling at The University of Houston-Clear Lake and a BS in Elementary Education at Texas A&M University in College Station. Sherry has been trained in HeartMath, the medical approach to changing the neurons in the heart that control the brain when it goes into fight, flight, or freeze. She can help a client look at their behavioral patterns and allow them to decide how these patterns have shaped their approaches to life issues. Sherry can help them look at Family of Origin issues in the process.
Sherry Butler Loeb is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2002. She earned an MS in Counseling at The University of Houston-Clear Lake and a BS in Elementary Education at Texas A&M University in College Station. Sherry has been trained in HeartMath, the medical approach to changing the neurons in the heart that control the brain when it goes into fight, flight, or freeze. She can help a client look at their behavioral patterns and allow them to decide how these patterns have shaped their approaches to life issues. Sherry can help them look at Family of Origin issues in the process.
(281) 729-5116 View (281) 729-5116
Photo of Stefanie Semper, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stefanie Semper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atascocita, TX 77346  (Online Only)
The world would have you believe that being superhuman is a pre-requisite to being a mom, wife, professional, a woman. While you try to do the best you can, are you often left feeling drained, anxious, self-conscious, irritable, or, at times, alone? Does talking to loved ones, friends, or partners make you feel guilty, unappreciative, or not quite giving you the clarity that you’ve looking for? Fortunately, you are not alone, as this is a very common feeling women experience. It is painful, affects our confidence, and often leaves us lost, not knowing where to turn.
The world would have you believe that being superhuman is a pre-requisite to being a mom, wife, professional, a woman. While you try to do the best you can, are you often left feeling drained, anxious, self-conscious, irritable, or, at times, alone? Does talking to loved ones, friends, or partners make you feel guilty, unappreciative, or not quite giving you the clarity that you’ve looking for? Fortunately, you are not alone, as this is a very common feeling women experience. It is painful, affects our confidence, and often leaves us lost, not knowing where to turn.
(281) 729-8533 View (281) 729-8533
Photo of Jerrie Smith Muehr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerrie Smith Muehr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Jerrie Smith Muehr, LPC Jerrie Smith Muehr is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 1995. She has an MS in Psychology. Jerrie helps clients by being focused on them as individuals with their own unique needs and pulling from her toolbox of therapies to best serve them. Outside of work, Jerrie enjoys reading, going to sporting events, beaches, and traveling.
Jerrie Smith Muehr, LPC Jerrie Smith Muehr is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 1995. She has an MS in Psychology. Jerrie helps clients by being focused on them as individuals with their own unique needs and pulling from her toolbox of therapies to best serve them. Outside of work, Jerrie enjoys reading, going to sporting events, beaches, and traveling.
(346) 637-4079 View (346) 637-4079
Photo of Sydney Adams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
I work with those in their late teens through geriatrics in individual, marital or family therapy. I thoroughly assess each client and work with their own unique circumstances and strengths to address their issues, resolve presenting problems and accomplish goals. I specialize in the treatment of issues including: mental illness, phase of life, grief and loss, reconciliation, divorce, adjustment to medical or mental health diagnosis, occupational, spiritual, trauma, abuse and women’s issues. Beyond my education and professional experience, I draw from a myriad of personal life experiences that have made me a better therapist.
I work with those in their late teens through geriatrics in individual, marital or family therapy. I thoroughly assess each client and work with their own unique circumstances and strengths to address their issues, resolve presenting problems and accomplish goals. I specialize in the treatment of issues including: mental illness, phase of life, grief and loss, reconciliation, divorce, adjustment to medical or mental health diagnosis, occupational, spiritual, trauma, abuse and women’s issues. Beyond my education and professional experience, I draw from a myriad of personal life experiences that have made me a better therapist.
(832) 906-4658 View (832) 906-4658

See more therapy options for Huffman

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Huffman, TX

< 10

Therapists in Huffman, TX who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Spirituality
100% Life Transitions
50% Geriatric and Seniors
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in Huffman, TX see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Huffman?

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.