Therapists in Madison Heights, VA

Photo of Latoya Horsley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latoya Horsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison Heights, VA 24572  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Latoya. Do you ever feel stuck? Have you ever felt bruised, broken, and felt like giving up? These feelings often tie back to some anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. If this is you then I am the right person to come and see. I am open to helping anyone, but see a lot of patients that have issues with the aforementioned three issues.
Hello there! My name is Latoya. Do you ever feel stuck? Have you ever felt bruised, broken, and felt like giving up? These feelings often tie back to some anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. If this is you then I am the right person to come and see. I am open to helping anyone, but see a lot of patients that have issues with the aforementioned three issues.
(434) 595-4167 View (434) 595-4167
Photo of Ashley Butt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Butt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are unnoticed, invisible or not listened to? Maybe you feel like you don't fit in, that no one understands your experience, or perhaps you don't feel anything at all. Many people come to sessions overwhelmed by the demands of life and feel stress as a result of expectations they worry they are unable or don't want to meet. Some clients carry the weight of the world, while others struggle with feeling like they don't belong. Many clients have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships with themselves and/or others.
Do you feel like you are unnoticed, invisible or not listened to? Maybe you feel like you don't fit in, that no one understands your experience, or perhaps you don't feel anything at all. Many people come to sessions overwhelmed by the demands of life and feel stress as a result of expectations they worry they are unable or don't want to meet. Some clients carry the weight of the world, while others struggle with feeling like they don't belong. Many clients have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships with themselves and/or others.
(804) 889-2559 View (804) 889-2559
Photo of Marie Boyd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572
Marie Boyd is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a wide range of experience working with children and adults who struggle with anger, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Marie has extensive experience in trauma-informed care and she strives to help those healing from these experiences to create a safe space in processing trauma and developing coping skills to manage their symptoms and make strides in eliminating maladaptive behaviors.
Marie Boyd is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a wide range of experience working with children and adults who struggle with anger, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Marie has extensive experience in trauma-informed care and she strives to help those healing from these experiences to create a safe space in processing trauma and developing coping skills to manage their symptoms and make strides in eliminating maladaptive behaviors.
(434) 838-4377 View (434) 838-4377
Photo of Megan Hunt, Counselor
Megan Hunt
Counselor
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my page, I am dedicated to providing you with a safe and comfortable space to explore your emotions and personal struggles. My goal is to help you challenge your fears and insecurities, and ultimately find the path to the fulfilling life you desire. My approach is rooted in evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These techniques allow me to tailor my approach to your specific needs, and to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique circumstances.
Hello and welcome to my page, I am dedicated to providing you with a safe and comfortable space to explore your emotions and personal struggles. My goal is to help you challenge your fears and insecurities, and ultimately find the path to the fulfilling life you desire. My approach is rooted in evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These techniques allow me to tailor my approach to your specific needs, and to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique circumstances.
(321) 343-3635 View (321) 343-3635
Photo of Melinda Dickinson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed professional therapist and have been actively working with children, teenagers and families/adults since 2014. I obtained my master's in professional counseling in 2015. My counseling perspective comes from an integrative style, tailoring treatment needs with wisdom and respect, based on client centered care.
Hello! I am a licensed professional therapist and have been actively working with children, teenagers and families/adults since 2014. I obtained my master's in professional counseling in 2015. My counseling perspective comes from an integrative style, tailoring treatment needs with wisdom and respect, based on client centered care.
(434) 216-0205 View (434) 216-0205
Photo of Pamela Pierce, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572  (Online Only)
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
(434) 505-4907 View (434) 505-4907
Photo of Kimberly Plourde, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Plourde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572
Kimberly Plourde is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Maine and Virginia with many years of experience in the fields of mental health and child welfare. We are all impacted by traumatic events or serious life stressors, which can make us stronger. Kimberly has a desire to help people find the strength and joy that can come through healing the wounds from those events. Kimberly enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families. She brings a warm and friendly approach to this very important process.
Kimberly Plourde is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Maine and Virginia with many years of experience in the fields of mental health and child welfare. We are all impacted by traumatic events or serious life stressors, which can make us stronger. Kimberly has a desire to help people find the strength and joy that can come through healing the wounds from those events. Kimberly enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families. She brings a warm and friendly approach to this very important process.
(434) 602-6234 View (434) 602-6234
Photo of R. Mike Anderson, EdD, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
R. Mike Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572
Hello, As a clinical director, I understand the importance of understanding and honoring the needs of my clients. My Life experience and clinical understanding inspires me to co-create change with and for my clients. My faith and family have helped me stay balanced and energized for service. I love helping clients uncover facts that were hidden from view. I love seeing a person's eyes light up when they uncover unconscious truths that emerge during counseling. I love seeing the smile and life come back into a person who had begun to doubt whether solutions could be found. It’s exciting! I love my job!
Hello, As a clinical director, I understand the importance of understanding and honoring the needs of my clients. My Life experience and clinical understanding inspires me to co-create change with and for my clients. My faith and family have helped me stay balanced and energized for service. I love helping clients uncover facts that were hidden from view. I love seeing a person's eyes light up when they uncover unconscious truths that emerge during counseling. I love seeing the smile and life come back into a person who had begun to doubt whether solutions could be found. It’s exciting! I love my job!
(434) 478-0743 View (434) 478-0743
Photo of Sophia D Strange, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia D Strange
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison Heights, VA 24572
Not accepting new clients
Sophia D. Strange, MA., is a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have almost 20 years of experience helping children, adults and families navigate the struggles of mental health problems, communication needs and adjustment demands. I work children and young adults.
Sophia D. Strange, MA., is a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have almost 20 years of experience helping children, adults and families navigate the struggles of mental health problems, communication needs and adjustment demands. I work children and young adults.
(434) 216-2410 View (434) 216-2410
Photo of Nicole Carson, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572
I have worked with many children, adolescents, adults, and families since 2017. Conflict in relationships, issues in communication, adverse patterns of behavior, and many more have been successfully addressed through counseling. Life is a journey that includes a lot of ups and downs. Sometimes all we need is for someone to walk along side us for a time as we face challenges that come along. I would like to equip you with the tools you need to address these. As we work together, my objective is that you gain insight and understanding about your personal struggles and feel confident enough to face them autonomously.
I have worked with many children, adolescents, adults, and families since 2017. Conflict in relationships, issues in communication, adverse patterns of behavior, and many more have been successfully addressed through counseling. Life is a journey that includes a lot of ups and downs. Sometimes all we need is for someone to walk along side us for a time as we face challenges that come along. I would like to equip you with the tools you need to address these. As we work together, my objective is that you gain insight and understanding about your personal struggles and feel confident enough to face them autonomously.
(434) 595-3538 View (434) 595-3538
Photo of Ashly Bradley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashly Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, VA 24572
Ashly Bradley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia who has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings. Ashly has primarily provided services in school-based therapeutic programs to include therapeutic day treatment, school-based outpatient, group therapy, and individual therapy to provide support for ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and life stressors.
Ashly Bradley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia who has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings. Ashly has primarily provided services in school-based therapeutic programs to include therapeutic day treatment, school-based outpatient, group therapy, and individual therapy to provide support for ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and life stressors.
(434) 577-8236 View (434) 577-8236

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth B. Farnsworth, LPC, LMFT, FT, PhD, CCTMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth B. Farnsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, FT, PhD, CCTMH
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
I have over 25 years' experience working with individuals adjusting to major life transitions and grief issues, depression, and anxiety. I have particular interest in helping individuals adjust to the illness and death of a child, parent, sibling, friend, or other family member. I received my doctoral education in Family Studies which integrated counseling, sociology, and psychology in understanding and treating major life transitions and family changes. I am also interested in working with caregivers and individuals dealing with career concerns. I will be very pleased to offer services to you!
I have over 25 years' experience working with individuals adjusting to major life transitions and grief issues, depression, and anxiety. I have particular interest in helping individuals adjust to the illness and death of a child, parent, sibling, friend, or other family member. I received my doctoral education in Family Studies which integrated counseling, sociology, and psychology in understanding and treating major life transitions and family changes. I am also interested in working with caregivers and individuals dealing with career concerns. I will be very pleased to offer services to you!
(434) 260-5010 View (434) 260-5010
Photo of Bryan Hunsley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan Hunsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Bryan Hunsley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 5 years experience working alongside children, adolescents, adults, and couples who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, and crisis intervention.
Bryan Hunsley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 5 years experience working alongside children, adolescents, adults, and couples who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, and crisis intervention.
(434) 325-5180 View (434) 325-5180
Photo of Bryan John Prinzivalli, MA, LPC, ACS, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan John Prinzivalli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Having worked extensively with children, adolescents and their families, I would say my ideal client is pre-teen to adult working through behavioral struggles including impulse control, defiance, hyperactivity, etc. I work closely with and honor the family unit and also work with couples, relationship and marriage counseling for the betterment of that unit. I also have worked with and specialize in treatment of dual diagnosis, particularly when addictive behaviors are a primary concern. Being trained in ASAM criteria I also work with additive behaviors in both adolescent and adults.
Having worked extensively with children, adolescents and their families, I would say my ideal client is pre-teen to adult working through behavioral struggles including impulse control, defiance, hyperactivity, etc. I work closely with and honor the family unit and also work with couples, relationship and marriage counseling for the betterment of that unit. I also have worked with and specialize in treatment of dual diagnosis, particularly when addictive behaviors are a primary concern. Being trained in ASAM criteria I also work with additive behaviors in both adolescent and adults.
(434) 478-1721 View (434) 478-1721
Photo of Jeanie Felty, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanie Felty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Jeanie Felty is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia who has 6 years of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals in a variety of outpatient settings. She has a passion to support those seeking help with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal loss and infertility, trauma and adjustment issues, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and life transitions. She is trained in perinatal mental health, trauma crisis response, Christian counseling and is an adoption competent counselor. Jeanie completed her Master's in Professional Counseling at Liberty University.
Jeanie Felty is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia who has 6 years of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals in a variety of outpatient settings. She has a passion to support those seeking help with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal loss and infertility, trauma and adjustment issues, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and life transitions. She is trained in perinatal mental health, trauma crisis response, Christian counseling and is an adoption competent counselor. Jeanie completed her Master's in Professional Counseling at Liberty University.
(434) 577-6609 View (434) 577-6609
Photo of Rebeccah McCully, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebeccah McCully
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Rebeccah is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. Her professional journey has been focused on serving in school-based therapeutic programs, including group counseling, school-based outpatient services, and providing individual therapy. Rebeccah is deeply committed to supporting women through various challenges, including struggles with self-esteem, infertility, miscarriages, postpartum depression, and the complex stressors of motherhood and life. Her aim is to empower women to improve their self-perception and self-esteem and reframe negative thought patterns to pursue their desired life paths.
Rebeccah is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. Her professional journey has been focused on serving in school-based therapeutic programs, including group counseling, school-based outpatient services, and providing individual therapy. Rebeccah is deeply committed to supporting women through various challenges, including struggles with self-esteem, infertility, miscarriages, postpartum depression, and the complex stressors of motherhood and life. Her aim is to empower women to improve their self-perception and self-esteem and reframe negative thought patterns to pursue their desired life paths.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Andrew Savill, LPC, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Savill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Welcome! If you are looking for someone who is deeply committed to listening and caring for you in your unique situation, who has been equipped with knowledge and skill to truly help you in your journey, and has had significant experience working with a wide variety of clients and issues, I may be a good fit for you. I have an undergraduate degree in psychology, an MDIV and a Masters in Counseling, and am a life long learner who engages my clients with warm evidenced based care.
Welcome! If you are looking for someone who is deeply committed to listening and caring for you in your unique situation, who has been equipped with knowledge and skill to truly help you in your journey, and has had significant experience working with a wide variety of clients and issues, I may be a good fit for you. I have an undergraduate degree in psychology, an MDIV and a Masters in Counseling, and am a life long learner who engages my clients with warm evidenced based care.
(434) 838-3499 View (434) 838-3499
Photo of Sierra Klotz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sierra Klotz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Sierra Klotz is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in the community and office setting. Sierra has worked with clients through life transitions, anxiety, depression, and managing stress. She provides an accepting environment for clients to feel safe within the therapeutic relationship and utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, understanding that each client is different in their needs and goals.
Sierra Klotz is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in the community and office setting. Sierra has worked with clients through life transitions, anxiety, depression, and managing stress. She provides an accepting environment for clients to feel safe within the therapeutic relationship and utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, understanding that each client is different in their needs and goals.
(434) 602-6239 View (434) 602-6239
Photo of Kimberly Plourde - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Lynchburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Lynchburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(434) 443-6808 View (434) 443-6808
Photo of Katie Oliver, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Katie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 13 years of clinical experience working in community mental health with adolescents, teens, young adults, and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, grief, loss, phase of life problems, self-esteem, identity issues, and relationship issues. Katie received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Elon University her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
Katie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 13 years of clinical experience working in community mental health with adolescents, teens, young adults, and families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, grief, loss, phase of life problems, self-esteem, identity issues, and relationship issues. Katie received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Elon University her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
(434) 215-0355 View (434) 215-0355

See more therapy options for Madison Heights

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Madison Heights, VA

10+

Average cost per session

$95

Therapists in Madison Heights, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
73% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
64% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
82% Anthem | Elevance
73% Aetna

How Therapists in Madison Heights, VA see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Madison Heights?

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.