Therapists in Charlotte, NC
Katie Wagoner
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCMHC, PMH-C, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I understand that life can bring its joys and challenges, and oftentimes they come without us expecting them. Sometimes these challenges feel so heavy, that we struggle to bear them alone. These challenges can leave us feeling stuck or they can be difficult to find our way through. I work to create an authentic and safe place for clients to process the burdens they carry. I consider it a privilege to walk with my clients as they navigate the challenges in their lives.
I understand that life can bring its joys and challenges, and oftentimes they come without us expecting them. Sometimes these challenges feel so heavy, that we struggle to bear them alone. These challenges can leave us feeling stuck or they can be difficult to find our way through. I work to create an authentic and safe place for clients to process the burdens they carry. I consider it a privilege to walk with my clients as they navigate the challenges in their lives.
Katherine Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Katherine Evans a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been a therapist for over 20 years. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work from East Carolina University. I have been a Medical Social Worker for over 25 years and can offer my clients things that can be going on with them medically that can present itself as a Mental Health issue. I serve clients from the ages of 6-100 in a myriad of areas. I can impact your life by giving you the knowledge and skills needed to overcome any obstacle in life.
Hi, I am Katherine Evans a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been a therapist for over 20 years. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work from East Carolina University. I have been a Medical Social Worker for over 25 years and can offer my clients things that can be going on with them medically that can present itself as a Mental Health issue. I serve clients from the ages of 6-100 in a myriad of areas. I can impact your life by giving you the knowledge and skills needed to overcome any obstacle in life.
Hannah M. (Lgbtq+ Therapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Empathic. Easygoing. Humorist. You create happiness for others, but you struggle to find your own bliss. The mask of being the happy-go-lucky friend is tiring. It's beginning to wear you down. You're always expected to bring the jokes. But, it feels like your pain is fake & unworthy of being heard. Putting the sarcasm & punchlines aside can be foreign & painful when you're so used to always bringing the wit to the table. You deserve to give yourself permission to prioritize your needs & set boundaries. Now is the time to heal the pain you've been avoiding. I will help you find joy again with some laughs along the way.
Empathic. Easygoing. Humorist. You create happiness for others, but you struggle to find your own bliss. The mask of being the happy-go-lucky friend is tiring. It's beginning to wear you down. You're always expected to bring the jokes. But, it feels like your pain is fake & unworthy of being heard. Putting the sarcasm & punchlines aside can be foreign & painful when you're so used to always bringing the wit to the table. You deserve to give yourself permission to prioritize your needs & set boundaries. Now is the time to heal the pain you've been avoiding. I will help you find joy again with some laughs along the way.
Ashley Burke
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Does life feel overwhelming right now? Anxiety, depression, and trauma have a way of dictating our thoughts and taking control. In other words, emotions are hard! It’s incredible how long the human body can hold in all the chaos that life brings. I want to help you let go of all of the distress you’ve been holding on to and take back that control. Life will always be unpredictable, however, together we can find ways to navigate through the storms.
Does life feel overwhelming right now? Anxiety, depression, and trauma have a way of dictating our thoughts and taking control. In other words, emotions are hard! It’s incredible how long the human body can hold in all the chaos that life brings. I want to help you let go of all of the distress you’ve been holding on to and take back that control. Life will always be unpredictable, however, together we can find ways to navigate through the storms.
John B. Rowe, Ph.D, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Are you looking for a therapist who can help you create a more authentic and hope-filled life? Look no further! With over 35 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome their struggles and achieve their goals. At my practice, I specialize in depth psychology, which promotes the idea that we all have untapped inner resources for healing. So, our dreams, then, can be a powerful tool for unlocking the unconscious mind and the treasures hidden within. By listening deeply to the images and symbols in our dreams, we can uncover essential truths about your life, gaining insight into your deepest desires and fears.
Are you looking for a therapist who can help you create a more authentic and hope-filled life? Look no further! With over 35 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome their struggles and achieve their goals. At my practice, I specialize in depth psychology, which promotes the idea that we all have untapped inner resources for healing. So, our dreams, then, can be a powerful tool for unlocking the unconscious mind and the treasures hidden within. By listening deeply to the images and symbols in our dreams, we can uncover essential truths about your life, gaining insight into your deepest desires and fears.
Courtney Wyche
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Serving adolescents and families in-person with virtual availability on a need-to-need basis. Specializes in Anxiety and Depression, PTSD, life transitions, spirituality development, and identity development.
Serving adolescents and families in-person with virtual availability on a need-to-need basis. Specializes in Anxiety and Depression, PTSD, life transitions, spirituality development, and identity development.
Kristin K Hodgson, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
Parenting a child who learns, interacts, and develops differently than their peers can be a joy and a challenge. You may have wondered if your child has Autism, ADHD, or another developmental difference, or if your child is twice exceptional (2e). I specialize in comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for children (infants/toddlers through school-age) to identify their unique diagnostic profile and to provide answers and guidance to their parents. I also provide treatment, including direct child therapy and caregiver coaching, to address areas of need and build on the many strengths of neurodivergent thinkers.
Parenting a child who learns, interacts, and develops differently than their peers can be a joy and a challenge. You may have wondered if your child has Autism, ADHD, or another developmental difference, or if your child is twice exceptional (2e). I specialize in comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for children (infants/toddlers through school-age) to identify their unique diagnostic profile and to provide answers and guidance to their parents. I also provide treatment, including direct child therapy and caregiver coaching, to address areas of need and build on the many strengths of neurodivergent thinkers.
Chris Nealy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself setting goals that you rarely reach? Do you often feel that you've worked your hardest all day yet failed to complete the tasks in front of you? Living with executive functioning challenges can present invisible obstacles that others may minimize or dismiss as excuses. If you have ADHD and/or Autism, you are likely familiar with these situations, as well as the impact these repeated experiences can have on your emotional and mental well-being. As a person with ADHD, I assure you there are solutions!
Do you find yourself setting goals that you rarely reach? Do you often feel that you've worked your hardest all day yet failed to complete the tasks in front of you? Living with executive functioning challenges can present invisible obstacles that others may minimize or dismiss as excuses. If you have ADHD and/or Autism, you are likely familiar with these situations, as well as the impact these repeated experiences can have on your emotional and mental well-being. As a person with ADHD, I assure you there are solutions!
Dynika Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262 (Online Only)
Starting therapy is the first step towards your healing journey, your success in this journey stems from the work that you put in to face your oppositions and challenges. Life’s path was never meant to be taken alone and many questions often come with the unknown and constant changes in society. You may ask yourself, will this be helpful, let’s take the first step to empowerment and emotional betterment so that you can become the best version of you. I have worked in the field of child welfare, Foster Care, and mental health for over fifteen years. I use a multisystemic modality and take a client-centered approach.
Starting therapy is the first step towards your healing journey, your success in this journey stems from the work that you put in to face your oppositions and challenges. Life’s path was never meant to be taken alone and many questions often come with the unknown and constant changes in society. You may ask yourself, will this be helpful, let’s take the first step to empowerment and emotional betterment so that you can become the best version of you. I have worked in the field of child welfare, Foster Care, and mental health for over fifteen years. I use a multisystemic modality and take a client-centered approach.
Keshia Ginn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203 (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist who has worked with diverse populations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for connecting with women of color who are experiencing emotional & relational issues. Treatment focus includes depression, anxiety, identity concerns, grief/loss, boundary setting & healthy relationships.
I am a licensed therapist who has worked with diverse populations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for connecting with women of color who are experiencing emotional & relational issues. Treatment focus includes depression, anxiety, identity concerns, grief/loss, boundary setting & healthy relationships.
Michael "CoachMike" Jackson
INHC, CHHP, HCEC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I focus on "whole person" coaching. An Integrative approach to finding and maintaining new habits in various areas of your life that lead to a better version of yourself. I do not diagnose or treat mental health. I'm a life coach and a holistic health coach. I coach clients on nutrition, relationships, overall wellness, etc.
I focus on "whole person" coaching. An Integrative approach to finding and maintaining new habits in various areas of your life that lead to a better version of yourself. I do not diagnose or treat mental health. I'm a life coach and a holistic health coach. I coach clients on nutrition, relationships, overall wellness, etc.
15 Second Videos
Emily Soukhanouvong
Arise Wellness, LLC
Cyrena B Wooster
Sonya Warren
Jemarian Blair- Marriage Couples And Family
Eden Hyder
Grace Healing Journey, PLLC
Kristen Lynn McClure
Uyen Dinh
Embodied Care Wellness Center
La'Tracia S Jones
Jasmine Garrison
Connie Mele
Lindsey Jefferies Jones
Logan Cohen
Robin Fine
Serenity Counseling of the Carolinas PLLC
Jessycka French
Blake Clemmons
Kimberleigh Hagar
Cedar Tree Empowerment Center LLC
Dan O'Sullivan
Mackenzie Weigel
Moriah Cockerham
Galina Olivera-Celdran
Terri Ray
Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist
Megan Ashley Smith
Taylor Cummins(Vinson)
Markel Limbacker
Hallie Amat
Kaitlyn Stickley
ShiftingParadigms Counseling and Consulting, PC
Erica Lindenberg LCSW, PLLC
Terrence L. Lassiter
Betsy Leinbach
Brittany A Flora
Darlene Mew
Meghan Blair Walk And Talk And Online Therapy
Tameka Whittlesey
Welltheology Counseling Center
Gretchen Natale
Ellie Bensinger
Elise Comber
Kayla Patterson
Danaan Yo
Sarah Webber
Ariel T. (The Young Adult Specialist)
Crystal Dawn O'Gorman
Erika Larsen
Jessie Penner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Waitlist for new clients
Life presents challenges, and we are compelled to adapt, but this does not mean we have to do it alone. Whether you need a helping hand, or are simply looking for someone to confide in, I want to offer you a judgment-free space of support. I strongly believe that having a place to be present with your emotions can make all the difference. We all have our own struggles that make us feel vulnerable and uncertain. However, I have always trusted that the human brain is innately programmed to be resilient and powerful. And your mind is nothing short of incredible.
Life presents challenges, and we are compelled to adapt, but this does not mean we have to do it alone. Whether you need a helping hand, or are simply looking for someone to confide in, I want to offer you a judgment-free space of support. I strongly believe that having a place to be present with your emotions can make all the difference. We all have our own struggles that make us feel vulnerable and uncertain. However, I have always trusted that the human brain is innately programmed to be resilient and powerful. And your mind is nothing short of incredible.
Emily Soukhanouvong
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
You learned that to get through life, you must be perfect, “proper,” and stay invisible. But operating down this path comes at a cost: overwhelming pressure, self-hatred, and feeling like an imposter in your skin. Belonging has never been easy for me, especially as a child of Asian immigrant parents. The pressure to be "enough" for others or to offset the guilt I felt for all the sacrifices my parents made to succeed in the United States has contributed to my resilience and anxious attempts to hide my imperfections. So, this is an invitation to those who want permission to mess up, be imperfect, and recover from unmet needs.
You learned that to get through life, you must be perfect, “proper,” and stay invisible. But operating down this path comes at a cost: overwhelming pressure, self-hatred, and feeling like an imposter in your skin. Belonging has never been easy for me, especially as a child of Asian immigrant parents. The pressure to be "enough" for others or to offset the guilt I felt for all the sacrifices my parents made to succeed in the United States has contributed to my resilience and anxious attempts to hide my imperfections. So, this is an invitation to those who want permission to mess up, be imperfect, and recover from unmet needs.
Cara Lima
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Feeling disconnected from yourself, friends, family? Experiencing a life transition? Struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel like something is missing from your sex life? Are you longing to re-ignite your intimacy and/or sexuality? Would you like to repair or strengthen your relationship? Are you single & looking to discover your potential for pleasure? I believe people have the desire & capacity to heal & grow, & that our quality of life is impacted by our relationship with others. I help clients increase intimacy, passion, sexual satisfaction, & pleasure so they can develop a deeper connection with Self & others.
Feeling disconnected from yourself, friends, family? Experiencing a life transition? Struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel like something is missing from your sex life? Are you longing to re-ignite your intimacy and/or sexuality? Would you like to repair or strengthen your relationship? Are you single & looking to discover your potential for pleasure? I believe people have the desire & capacity to heal & grow, & that our quality of life is impacted by our relationship with others. I help clients increase intimacy, passion, sexual satisfaction, & pleasure so they can develop a deeper connection with Self & others.
Laura D Waters
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Sometimes life becomes complicated, overwhelming and confusing and you may find yourself at a crossroads needing some direction. It's okay if you need help and I am here to assist you in a non-judgmental way and provide you a listening ear. My passion is to help you make sense of it all, set attainable goals, and live life complete. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, stress, grief/loss in addition to challenges women face. You need a listening ear, understanding, and a steering partner and that's where I can help you.
Sometimes life becomes complicated, overwhelming and confusing and you may find yourself at a crossroads needing some direction. It's okay if you need help and I am here to assist you in a non-judgmental way and provide you a listening ear. My passion is to help you make sense of it all, set attainable goals, and live life complete. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, stress, grief/loss in addition to challenges women face. You need a listening ear, understanding, and a steering partner and that's where I can help you.
Sejal Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Sejal Patel. I am a LMFT in North and South Carolina and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate. My greatest strength is my innate compassion, empathy, and creative ability to present information tactfully that empowers my clients' autonomy.
Hi, my name is Sejal Patel. I am a LMFT in North and South Carolina and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate. My greatest strength is my innate compassion, empathy, and creative ability to present information tactfully that empowers my clients' autonomy.
Nicole Brito
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
Taking this brave step in your healing journey is something to be truly proud of. I'm here to support you through exploration, navigating challenges, and embracing your strengths. Whether navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-confidence, or seeking self-forgiveness, I offer a supportive space where you're empowered, validated, and truly heard. Your expertise in your life is valued, and I provide personalized tools to address your unique challenges. Together, we'll focus on your strengths, well-being, and prioritize your path to acceptance. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate the personal growth you deserve.
Taking this brave step in your healing journey is something to be truly proud of. I'm here to support you through exploration, navigating challenges, and embracing your strengths. Whether navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-confidence, or seeking self-forgiveness, I offer a supportive space where you're empowered, validated, and truly heard. Your expertise in your life is valued, and I provide personalized tools to address your unique challenges. Together, we'll focus on your strengths, well-being, and prioritize your path to acceptance. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate the personal growth you deserve.
Dr Tracey & Healing Connections
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I am Dr. Tracey and here at Healing Connections we provide individual, couple and family therapy to address a wide range of issues. Some of the challenges we can help with include things like depression, anxiety, grief & loss, anger issues, communication problems, couples conflict, parent-child conflict, intimacy and sexual problems, infidelity, trauma and PTSD.
I am Dr. Tracey and here at Healing Connections we provide individual, couple and family therapy to address a wide range of issues. Some of the challenges we can help with include things like depression, anxiety, grief & loss, anger issues, communication problems, couples conflict, parent-child conflict, intimacy and sexual problems, infidelity, trauma and PTSD.
Marcus Lee Robinson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
What's going on family! I'm Marcus Robinson, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor serving both North and South Carolina. I am dedicated to working with those seeking assistance to put their best foot forward. I use a great deal of humor in my style as I understand working on one's self can be a complicated task. Granted, it doesn't have to be. I have a slew of experience working with teens, adults and couples from all walks of life, grappling with an array of complications. I look at the therapy process as examining attributes you possess and bringing out the ones you want, while showing you, you have everything you need.
What's going on family! I'm Marcus Robinson, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor serving both North and South Carolina. I am dedicated to working with those seeking assistance to put their best foot forward. I use a great deal of humor in my style as I understand working on one's self can be a complicated task. Granted, it doesn't have to be. I have a slew of experience working with teens, adults and couples from all walks of life, grappling with an array of complications. I look at the therapy process as examining attributes you possess and bringing out the ones you want, while showing you, you have everything you need.
Alexandra Latta
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Alexandra Latta is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of South Carolina who has over 6 years of professional experience providing clinical services to adolescents, and adults who are exploring issues including life transitions like leaving for college, career growth/ development, and retirement. She also provides counseling support for stress, anxiety, and grief associated with unanticipated events such as a change in health status, loss of income, or the sudden end of a valuable relationship(s).
Alexandra Latta is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of South Carolina who has over 6 years of professional experience providing clinical services to adolescents, and adults who are exploring issues including life transitions like leaving for college, career growth/ development, and retirement. She also provides counseling support for stress, anxiety, and grief associated with unanticipated events such as a change in health status, loss of income, or the sudden end of a valuable relationship(s).
See more therapy options for Charlotte
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Charlotte, NC
3,000+
Average cost per session
$135
Therapists in Charlotte, NC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
77% | Self Esteem |
73% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Coping Skills |
69% | Stress |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
73% | Aetna |
62% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Charlotte, NC see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Charlotte?
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
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.
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.
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.