Therapists in Dellslow, WV

Photo of Valerie Stansberry - Sonder, MS, LPC, CRC, Counselor
Sonder
Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Dellslow, WV 26531  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When you go through challenging situations in life, therapy can provide you with long lasting benefits to help you cope and manage difficult challenges. Let the therapists at Sonder help you develop a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and attain a better understanding of self, goals, and values. We provide a comfortable, safe environment that encourages positive change for healing to begin. Please call for additional information and/or consultation about services. You can also view our website at www.TherapyatSonder.com. We look forward to hear from you!
When you go through challenging situations in life, therapy can provide you with long lasting benefits to help you cope and manage difficult challenges. Let the therapists at Sonder help you develop a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and attain a better understanding of self, goals, and values. We provide a comfortable, safe environment that encourages positive change for healing to begin. Please call for additional information and/or consultation about services. You can also view our website at www.TherapyatSonder.com. We look forward to hear from you!
(304) 907-0363 View (304) 907-0363

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sidney Sheets, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sidney Sheets
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
Are you struggling to navigate through your evolving identity? Are you becoming exhausted with the same old patterns and habits? Perhaps body image and self-esteem are a daily struggle, or you’re unhappy with your relationship to food or substances. Maybe you need a space to explore your thoughts and feelings about your gender and sexuality. If any of these concerns sound familiar, then you’ve come to the right place. I hear you, I believe you, and I understand.
Are you struggling to navigate through your evolving identity? Are you becoming exhausted with the same old patterns and habits? Perhaps body image and self-esteem are a daily struggle, or you’re unhappy with your relationship to food or substances. Maybe you need a space to explore your thoughts and feelings about your gender and sexuality. If any of these concerns sound familiar, then you’ve come to the right place. I hear you, I believe you, and I understand.
(681) 522-3272 View (681) 522-3272
Photo of Sheli Bernstein-Goff, MSW, LICSW, CTS, CFS, DAAETS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheli Bernstein-Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CTS, CFS, DAAETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508  (Online Only)
I strongly believe that everyone is unique and everyone’s story is unique; therefore, different approaches are essential in working with a wide variety of people. I am a true believer in the concept of “words shape beliefs” and, in that vein, saying “I do not know” or “please help” are powerful words since vulnerability often leads to growth and healing. One of my favorite quotes is by Viktor Frankl who said "When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves."
I strongly believe that everyone is unique and everyone’s story is unique; therefore, different approaches are essential in working with a wide variety of people. I am a true believer in the concept of “words shape beliefs” and, in that vein, saying “I do not know” or “please help” are powerful words since vulnerability often leads to growth and healing. One of my favorite quotes is by Viktor Frankl who said "When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves."
(304) 403-7124 View (304) 403-7124
Photo of Samantha Stahl, MS, NCC, Counselor
Samantha Stahl
Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26501
I believe that no two individuals are the same or come into therapy with the same experiences. Therefore, I would define my counseling approach as eclectic/integrative because I believe in meeting my clients where they are at- then tailoring my approach to meet specific needs. To support the therapeutic relationship, my goal is to provide my clients a space to come as they are and be met with empathetic understanding, support, and genuineness.
I believe that no two individuals are the same or come into therapy with the same experiences. Therefore, I would define my counseling approach as eclectic/integrative because I believe in meeting my clients where they are at- then tailoring my approach to meet specific needs. To support the therapeutic relationship, my goal is to provide my clients a space to come as they are and be met with empathetic understanding, support, and genuineness.
(681) 321-9155 View (681) 321-9155
Photo of Travis L Watson - Restore Addiction Recovery and Wellness, LPC, MAC, SAP
Restore Addiction Recovery and Wellness
LPC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
We serve those who are suffering from Substance Use Disorder who are looking for quality treatment in the form of Therapy and/or Medicine.
We serve those who are suffering from Substance Use Disorder who are looking for quality treatment in the form of Therapy and/or Medicine.
(304) 337-5953 View (304) 337-5953
Photo of Leisa Barrett, LICSW, MSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leisa Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MPA
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
It is my goal to help with understanding and resolving the challenges and effects of trauma, grief, and adversity, to restore balance in daily life. I am driven to support people through circumstances that cause uncertainty and distress, such as abusive relationships, infertility, loss, and substance misuse, to name a few. I strive to assist in achieving long-term success through various treatment approaches, based on mutually determined therapeutic goals.
It is my goal to help with understanding and resolving the challenges and effects of trauma, grief, and adversity, to restore balance in daily life. I am driven to support people through circumstances that cause uncertainty and distress, such as abusive relationships, infertility, loss, and substance misuse, to name a few. I strive to assist in achieving long-term success through various treatment approaches, based on mutually determined therapeutic goals.
(681) 248-8501 View (681) 248-8501
Photo of Shannon Waliser, MSW, MPA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Waliser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Waitlist for new clients
Overwhelmed. Anxious. Depressed. Stuck. These are the words that come to mind more often than not when you pause long enough to really consider how you are doing. You know it is time to regain control over your life. Seeking help is one of the most courageous acts of self-love an individual can do for himself or herself. Together, we work towards health, resilience, and well-being so that you can deal with life transitions, stress and illness. You will learn the skills necessary to approach life with greater ease when life’s unexpected difficulties happen.
Overwhelmed. Anxious. Depressed. Stuck. These are the words that come to mind more often than not when you pause long enough to really consider how you are doing. You know it is time to regain control over your life. Seeking help is one of the most courageous acts of self-love an individual can do for himself or herself. Together, we work towards health, resilience, and well-being so that you can deal with life transitions, stress and illness. You will learn the skills necessary to approach life with greater ease when life’s unexpected difficulties happen.
Photo of Lorin Parker, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorin Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Seeking therapy can feel very daunting, overwhelming and feeling as if you are not sure it is right for you. You think, “what will this person think of me after I share all my struggles”, or “how will they judge me”. I am here to offer a free space for you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported while working through your inner struggles. You don’t have to feel alone or afraid of the things you are struggling with anymore. Let’s face it, life can be hard to manage sometimes and that’s why I’m here. I am here to help you get through those tough days.
Seeking therapy can feel very daunting, overwhelming and feeling as if you are not sure it is right for you. You think, “what will this person think of me after I share all my struggles”, or “how will they judge me”. I am here to offer a free space for you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported while working through your inner struggles. You don’t have to feel alone or afraid of the things you are struggling with anymore. Let’s face it, life can be hard to manage sometimes and that’s why I’m here. I am here to help you get through those tough days.
(304) 249-3798 View (304) 249-3798
Photo of Kari Kahl, MS, CMHC, AADC, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari Kahl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CMHC, AADC, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
I’m Kari Kahl, a Licensed Professional Counselor at Thomas Integrative Psychotherapy and with PSIMED, Inc. in Morgantown, WV. I am focused on collaborating with clients, ensuring they see real progress and feel safe and heard throughout the therapeutic process. I am sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges. I work with my clients to revise the narrative of their lives, heal old wounds, and move forward with a newfound feeling of freedom and relief. I guide clients through understanding how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected and help them make a targeted change.
I’m Kari Kahl, a Licensed Professional Counselor at Thomas Integrative Psychotherapy and with PSIMED, Inc. in Morgantown, WV. I am focused on collaborating with clients, ensuring they see real progress and feel safe and heard throughout the therapeutic process. I am sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges. I work with my clients to revise the narrative of their lives, heal old wounds, and move forward with a newfound feeling of freedom and relief. I guide clients through understanding how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected and help them make a targeted change.
(304) 902-8056 View (304) 902-8056
Photo of Stephanie Carter, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
I work with individuals to help manage life’s big transitions and decisions. You may be wrestling with anxiety or low self-esteem, and feeling frustrated that things which once came easily are now more of a struggle. You do not have to manage these difficulties alone.
I work with individuals to help manage life’s big transitions and decisions. You may be wrestling with anxiety or low self-esteem, and feeling frustrated that things which once came easily are now more of a struggle. You do not have to manage these difficulties alone.
(304) 449-5724 View (304) 449-5724
Photo of Ashleigh Mills - WM Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
WM Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Coping with life's challenges can feel overwhelming. At WM Counseling, we are here to help listen and guide you to achieve balance within yourself and your life. Whatever you are struggling with, you are not alone. As your therapist, we can help you to make positive changes in your daily life and bring hope to the future. It is our goal to bring the most supportive, nonjudgmental, and ethical practice in our work with you.
Coping with life's challenges can feel overwhelming. At WM Counseling, we are here to help listen and guide you to achieve balance within yourself and your life. Whatever you are struggling with, you are not alone. As your therapist, we can help you to make positive changes in your daily life and bring hope to the future. It is our goal to bring the most supportive, nonjudgmental, and ethical practice in our work with you.
(304) 409-2741 View (304) 409-2741
Photo of Joanne L. Morrissey, MSW, LISW-S, RYT500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne L. Morrissey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, RYT500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508  (Online Only)
I am a Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Columbia College and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. I am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT500) with 500+ hours of classroom study and has been teaching in studios, schools, corporate businesses, gyms, prison, hospitals and private homes for 20 years. I am a Level II Certificate in Integrative Restoration Meditation, an adjunct evidenced based approach in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, addiction and insomnia. I have available sessions for immediate online scheduling!
I am a Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Columbia College and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. I am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT500) with 500+ hours of classroom study and has been teaching in studios, schools, corporate businesses, gyms, prison, hospitals and private homes for 20 years. I am a Level II Certificate in Integrative Restoration Meditation, an adjunct evidenced based approach in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, addiction and insomnia. I have available sessions for immediate online scheduling!
(380) 207-1557 View (380) 207-1557
Photo of Amanda Lewis, MA, NCC, LPC, ALPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Waitlist for new clients
Trust is my guiding principle. As a way to earn your trust, I will listen to you and strive to understand your point of view. You don’t have to manage life alone! When it seems too difficult to move forward, it is my goal to help you find clarity and motivation! I strive to provide an atmopshere where you can feel safe to heal and gain insight for personal growth. Life and relationships with others can be challenging at times. The counseling relationship can serve as a helpful tool when navigating these challenges, providing you with a clearer understanding and a plan moving forward.
Trust is my guiding principle. As a way to earn your trust, I will listen to you and strive to understand your point of view. You don’t have to manage life alone! When it seems too difficult to move forward, it is my goal to help you find clarity and motivation! I strive to provide an atmopshere where you can feel safe to heal and gain insight for personal growth. Life and relationships with others can be challenging at times. The counseling relationship can serve as a helpful tool when navigating these challenges, providing you with a clearer understanding and a plan moving forward.
(304) 244-0326 View (304) 244-0326
Photo of Holly Thomas - Thomas Integrative Psychotherapy
Thomas Integrative Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
If you are taking the time to read this, life likely feels chaotic, overwhelming, or just plain difficult right now. It is rare for someone to seek a therapist during an encouraging or joyful season in their life. We understand that searching for the right therapist and scheduling that first appointment can feel daunting. Your thoughts and feelings are valid and understandable, and we can help. We create a comfortable space where you can take a break from caring for others and focus on yourself. It can be challenging to take time to attend to your mental health, but it is also essential for your well-being.
If you are taking the time to read this, life likely feels chaotic, overwhelming, or just plain difficult right now. It is rare for someone to seek a therapist during an encouraging or joyful season in their life. We understand that searching for the right therapist and scheduling that first appointment can feel daunting. Your thoughts and feelings are valid and understandable, and we can help. We create a comfortable space where you can take a break from caring for others and focus on yourself. It can be challenging to take time to attend to your mental health, but it is also essential for your well-being.
(681) 221-6730 View (681) 221-6730
Photo of Caitlin Cunningham Teeter, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Cunningham Teeter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Waitlist for new clients
Now more than ever I see individuals struggling to get through their daily lives, having a hard time being themselves and finding it difficult to connect with others. This may happen over time when living a life that is in conflict with your inner truth(s). You may be struggling to express who you are or what you want. These kinds of struggles, on top of other factors such as anxiety, burn out, compassion fatigue, the stressors of daily living and showing up for loved ones are all just some reasons to consider contacting a therapist.
Now more than ever I see individuals struggling to get through their daily lives, having a hard time being themselves and finding it difficult to connect with others. This may happen over time when living a life that is in conflict with your inner truth(s). You may be struggling to express who you are or what you want. These kinds of struggles, on top of other factors such as anxiety, burn out, compassion fatigue, the stressors of daily living and showing up for loved ones are all just some reasons to consider contacting a therapist.
(304) 826-2461 View (304) 826-2461
Photo of Judith Keatley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Keatley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508  (Online Only)
No Waitlist! You don’t have to accept that you’re feeling misunderstood, isolated, stuck, angry, sad, or anxious. Pain is natural, but struggle and suffering are what happens when we don’t act. My goal is to gently approach the hurdle(s) that are keeping you from fulfilling a wholesome and authentic life. I understand that throughout life, changes and events may cause emotional conflict, confusion, and feel unbearable. I believe strongly that people are very resilient, and I’m passionate about assisting individuals find their inner strength to overcome.
No Waitlist! You don’t have to accept that you’re feeling misunderstood, isolated, stuck, angry, sad, or anxious. Pain is natural, but struggle and suffering are what happens when we don’t act. My goal is to gently approach the hurdle(s) that are keeping you from fulfilling a wholesome and authentic life. I understand that throughout life, changes and events may cause emotional conflict, confusion, and feel unbearable. I believe strongly that people are very resilient, and I’m passionate about assisting individuals find their inner strength to overcome.
(304) 814-2479 View (304) 814-2479
Photo of Holly Danner, MSW, LGSW, MHA, EMDR-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Danner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, MHA, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Living in fight, flight, or freeze mode? Experiencing numbness or difficulty regulating strong emotions? As a trauma-informed therapist, I can help you move from surviving to thriving mode. You deserve to live your life to its fullest and I can help you get there. Although I've worked with many issues, I've had success helping people experiencing single incident to complex trauma/dissociation, attachment issues, disordered eating, codependency, and phobia and meet their goals.
Living in fight, flight, or freeze mode? Experiencing numbness or difficulty regulating strong emotions? As a trauma-informed therapist, I can help you move from surviving to thriving mode. You deserve to live your life to its fullest and I can help you get there. Although I've worked with many issues, I've had success helping people experiencing single incident to complex trauma/dissociation, attachment issues, disordered eating, codependency, and phobia and meet their goals.
(304) 249-9409 View (304) 249-9409
Photo of Renee Bair - Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia, Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia
Counselor
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawv.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawv.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(304) 721-1755 View (304) 721-1755
Photo of Brooke Nicole Anderson, MS, NCC, Counselor
Brooke Nicole Anderson
Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Therapy is meant to be a warm, welcoming, and safe space for you to come when you need help processing things, need support, or aren't sure where to turn next. I am here to be that person and place for you.
Therapy is meant to be a warm, welcoming, and safe space for you to come when you need help processing things, need support, or aren't sure where to turn next. I am here to be that person and place for you.
(304) 467-4367 View (304) 467-4367
Photo of Jude Enrichment Counseling Black - Appalachian Life Enrichment Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Appalachian Life Enrichment Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Now in Morgantown! Therapy is a place to pause, reflect on what you are seeking in life and explore the barriers preventing you from taking that next step in your journey. Life changes or chronic situations can throw us off course, leaving us to feel out of sync, confused, & disconnected from life. Whether you are looking to reconnect, find purpose, learn new coping skills, process trauma or loss, manage anxiety, deal with shame or make a life changing decision, therapy can be a safe place to discover the power you have within yourself to design your own solutions & find new ways to navigate challenging situations. Multisites!
Now in Morgantown! Therapy is a place to pause, reflect on what you are seeking in life and explore the barriers preventing you from taking that next step in your journey. Life changes or chronic situations can throw us off course, leaving us to feel out of sync, confused, & disconnected from life. Whether you are looking to reconnect, find purpose, learn new coping skills, process trauma or loss, manage anxiety, deal with shame or make a life changing decision, therapy can be a safe place to discover the power you have within yourself to design your own solutions & find new ways to navigate challenging situations. Multisites!
(304) 467-4175 View (304) 467-4175

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dellslow, WV

< 10

Therapists in Dellslow, WV who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Chronic Pain
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Highmark

How Therapists in Dellslow, WV see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dellslow?

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.