Therapists in Avon, IN

Photo of Shawna Tully, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, IN
Shawna Tully
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Shawna Tully is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1995. She studied at Purdue University and University of Kentucky. Shawna offers encouragement, hope, and reframes the clients' situation in new ways in which they had not thought about so that it feels better to them. Outside of work, Shawna loves sports, scrapbooking, reading, and crocheting unique items.
Shawna Tully is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1995. She studied at Purdue University and University of Kentucky. Shawna offers encouragement, hope, and reframes the clients' situation in new ways in which they had not thought about so that it feels better to them. Outside of work, Shawna loves sports, scrapbooking, reading, and crocheting unique items.
(463) 250-8742 View (463) 250-8742
Photo of Mindful Innovations Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Mindful Innovations Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
We empower & embrace neurodiversity by supporting children, adults, and families live to their fullest potential! Neurodiversity is a term to describe individuals striving daily to manage any of the following conditions, ADHD Autism Spectrum, Dyslexia, Social Communication Disorder, Tourette Syndrome, Learning Disabilities, and others. We help children and youth learn strategies to improve behaviors at home, school, and in their community. Our approach in couples therapy is teaching tools and strategies to you move your relationship into a more positive direction. Our clients are typical as well as neurodiverse couples!
We empower & embrace neurodiversity by supporting children, adults, and families live to their fullest potential! Neurodiversity is a term to describe individuals striving daily to manage any of the following conditions, ADHD Autism Spectrum, Dyslexia, Social Communication Disorder, Tourette Syndrome, Learning Disabilities, and others. We help children and youth learn strategies to improve behaviors at home, school, and in their community. Our approach in couples therapy is teaching tools and strategies to you move your relationship into a more positive direction. Our clients are typical as well as neurodiverse couples!
(317) 754-7953 View (317) 754-7953
Avon Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, IN 46123
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying therapy approaches and techniques, we will alter long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying therapy approaches and techniques, we will alter long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(317) 494-7525 View (317) 494-7525
Photo of Peyton Sutton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Avon, IN
Peyton Sutton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, IN 46123
Hello, I'm Peyton! As a Mental Health Counselor and former collegiate athlete, I'm dedicated to breaking down the barriers to seeking help within the athletic community. Drawing from my own journey navigating sports performance challenges and anxiety, I understand the unique pressures athletes face. But you don't have to be an athlete to benefit—I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, offering individual and couples counseling. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions freely. Let's work together to promote mental well-being and resilience.
Hello, I'm Peyton! As a Mental Health Counselor and former collegiate athlete, I'm dedicated to breaking down the barriers to seeking help within the athletic community. Drawing from my own journey navigating sports performance challenges and anxiety, I understand the unique pressures athletes face. But you don't have to be an athlete to benefit—I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, offering individual and couples counseling. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions freely. Let's work together to promote mental well-being and resilience.
(317) 548-1401 View (317) 548-1401
Photo of Jennifer Hutchens, Psychologist in Avon, IN
Jennifer Hutchens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
I am a passionate practitioner-scholar in the field of clinical psychology with a true desire to help individuals see and experience life differently through the therapeutic process to resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. I like to utilize Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and other evidence-based treatments to adult and adolescent clients with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, pain management and addictions.
I am a passionate practitioner-scholar in the field of clinical psychology with a true desire to help individuals see and experience life differently through the therapeutic process to resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. I like to utilize Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and other evidence-based treatments to adult and adolescent clients with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, pain management and addictions.
(463) 238-3626 View (463) 238-3626
Photo of Cassady Cantu, Pre-Licensed Professional in Avon, IN
Cassady Cantu
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, IN 46123
I aim to help my clients by providing a safe and comfy space to express themselves, without fear of judgement or persecution. My clients may be in transition, feeling a loss of identity, struggling in their relationships, or looking to feel empowered within. Perhaps you feel as though no one could understand what you're going through; let me try.
I aim to help my clients by providing a safe and comfy space to express themselves, without fear of judgement or persecution. My clients may be in transition, feeling a loss of identity, struggling in their relationships, or looking to feel empowered within. Perhaps you feel as though no one could understand what you're going through; let me try.
(463) 210-1895 View (463) 210-1895
Photo of Ellie Mental Health , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Ellie Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Ellie Mental Health Avon is a new mental health clinic who is on a mission to break the stigma of mental health. We have 6 full time therapists who have immediate availability for those individuals aged 6 and up. We are passionate about helping all people! We accept most major insurances and have self-pay options. We hope to fill the gap in the Hendricks County area when it comes to mental health care!
Ellie Mental Health Avon is a new mental health clinic who is on a mission to break the stigma of mental health. We have 6 full time therapists who have immediate availability for those individuals aged 6 and up. We are passionate about helping all people! We accept most major insurances and have self-pay options. We hope to fill the gap in the Hendricks County area when it comes to mental health care!
(317) 676-1302 View (317) 676-1302
Photo of Ciemone Rose, Psychologist in Avon, IN
Ciemone Rose
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Dr. Ciemone Rose is a licensed psychologist and Health Service Provider (HSPP) in the state of Indiana. She earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, Master of Arts (M. A. ) in Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington. She began her clinical work in 2010 and is experienced in providing individual, couples, family, and group counseling interventions. Dr. Rose works with individuals ages 12 and over, from a variety of backgrounds and varied presenting concerns.
Dr. Ciemone Rose is a licensed psychologist and Health Service Provider (HSPP) in the state of Indiana. She earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, Master of Arts (M. A. ) in Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington. She began her clinical work in 2010 and is experienced in providing individual, couples, family, and group counseling interventions. Dr. Rose works with individuals ages 12 and over, from a variety of backgrounds and varied presenting concerns.
(463) 263-7923 View (463) 263-7923
Photo of Moriah Veach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Moriah Veach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
What makes people do what they do? That question has fascinated me since childhood, so it’s no surprise when I found herself called to counseling. While earning my undergraduate degree in psychology from Cedarville University, I served an internship at Care to Change and was particularly impressed with the approach combining the evidence-based practices I was learning in classrooms with the Biblical foundation that has long been at the center of my life.
What makes people do what they do? That question has fascinated me since childhood, so it’s no surprise when I found herself called to counseling. While earning my undergraduate degree in psychology from Cedarville University, I served an internship at Care to Change and was particularly impressed with the approach combining the evidence-based practices I was learning in classrooms with the Biblical foundation that has long been at the center of my life.
(317) 751-5667 View (317) 751-5667
Photo of Rachel Kreilein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Rachel Kreilein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, IN 46123  (Online Only)
Therapy can help you understand your thoughts and feelings, recognize your strengths, and help you make meaningful steps to a healthier you. One of my main goals is to provide you with the insight and tools so that you can live your life in a healthy way.
Therapy can help you understand your thoughts and feelings, recognize your strengths, and help you make meaningful steps to a healthier you. One of my main goals is to provide you with the insight and tools so that you can live your life in a healthy way.
View
Photo of Theresa Miele, Counselor in Avon, IN
Theresa Miele
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we all need a moment... just to be heard. Life can get overwhelming at times, and we forget that we are only human, and sometimes need a little help to navigate the challenges. Whether you are facing a life crisis, relationship issue, or serious mental illness-- there is a way back to happiness and well-being. Let me help you find that path.
Sometimes we all need a moment... just to be heard. Life can get overwhelming at times, and we forget that we are only human, and sometimes need a little help to navigate the challenges. Whether you are facing a life crisis, relationship issue, or serious mental illness-- there is a way back to happiness and well-being. Let me help you find that path.
(317) 210-5565 View (317) 210-5565
Photo of Amanda Sharkey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Avon, IN
Amanda Sharkey
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avon, IN 46123
Hi there! I'm Amanda :) I have a passion for creating genuine connections with my clients, and I approach each person with compassion and empathy. My goal is to help you feel empowered and to walk this journey with you. I have experience working with adults in a variety of settings, with focus on anxiety and traumas and helping clients navigate their life transitions of all forms and sizes. I want to offer a safe space for you to be heard and seen, and to come as you are without fear of judgement.
Hi there! I'm Amanda :) I have a passion for creating genuine connections with my clients, and I approach each person with compassion and empathy. My goal is to help you feel empowered and to walk this journey with you. I have experience working with adults in a variety of settings, with focus on anxiety and traumas and helping clients navigate their life transitions of all forms and sizes. I want to offer a safe space for you to be heard and seen, and to come as you are without fear of judgement.
(317) 653-6759 View (317) 653-6759
Photo of April Bordeau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
April Bordeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
A common phrase I hear is "I just feel stuck." The people who say that know there is something better out there, but they don't know how to move in that direction. My role is to help you better understand yourself, heal from whatever life has thrown at you, and make the most of who you want to be. Many people reach out because their lives seem to lack meaning, they don't feel worthwhile, they find some challenges overwhelming, or they just don't seem to feel joy from their relationships or activities. That's where we begin the work. We start where you are.
A common phrase I hear is "I just feel stuck." The people who say that know there is something better out there, but they don't know how to move in that direction. My role is to help you better understand yourself, heal from whatever life has thrown at you, and make the most of who you want to be. Many people reach out because their lives seem to lack meaning, they don't feel worthwhile, they find some challenges overwhelming, or they just don't seem to feel joy from their relationships or activities. That's where we begin the work. We start where you are.
(317) 622-4912 View (317) 622-4912
Photo of Poonam Ishanpara, Psychologist in Avon, IN
Poonam Ishanpara
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Poonam Ishanpara is a licensed clinical psychologist who has been practicing for 8 years. She completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Iowa with degrees in Psychology and Pre-medicine. She earned her Master's and Doctoral degrees in clinical psychology with focus in Health Psychology from Adler University in Chicago, IL in 2013. Her clinical experience includes work within hospital centers and long-term care facilities. She focuses working with adults (18+) including the elderly experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, life stage changes, stress, health & wellness.
Poonam Ishanpara is a licensed clinical psychologist who has been practicing for 8 years. She completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Iowa with degrees in Psychology and Pre-medicine. She earned her Master's and Doctoral degrees in clinical psychology with focus in Health Psychology from Adler University in Chicago, IL in 2013. Her clinical experience includes work within hospital centers and long-term care facilities. She focuses working with adults (18+) including the elderly experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, life stage changes, stress, health & wellness.
(463) 250-8657 View (463) 250-8657
Photo of Liesa Etheridge, Counselor in Avon, IN
Liesa Etheridge
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck in your feelings, old habits, a relationship, etc., may be your body’s way of telling you you’re ready for change. If you’re new to therapy, or had a bad therapy experience in the past, however, finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. We’re meant to experience many emotions; the problem comes when we’re immobilized by them, we only feel the difficult ones, or when our thoughts and feelings keep us from living our values. If a therapist promises you that therapy will “fix” you, and they have the formula to achieve 100% happiness - I advise you to run or roll (for my wheelchair using friends!) past their bios.
Feeling stuck in your feelings, old habits, a relationship, etc., may be your body’s way of telling you you’re ready for change. If you’re new to therapy, or had a bad therapy experience in the past, however, finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. We’re meant to experience many emotions; the problem comes when we’re immobilized by them, we only feel the difficult ones, or when our thoughts and feelings keep us from living our values. If a therapist promises you that therapy will “fix” you, and they have the formula to achieve 100% happiness - I advise you to run or roll (for my wheelchair using friends!) past their bios.
(317) 279-6675 View (317) 279-6675
Photo of Darnesha Gaskew, Counselor in Avon, IN
Darnesha Gaskew
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Congratulations. If you have made it this far that indicates that you have already taken the first step in the right direction. Way to go! I’ve been where you are. I’ve been saddened, confused, hopeless, and felt no sense of direction. I’ve experienced grief, guilt, defeat, and anger. You’re not alone in this journey. One of the best decisions I have made and that you can make for yourself is the decision to heal. If you are interested in starting your healing journey, please feel free to contact me for your free 15 minute consultation.
Congratulations. If you have made it this far that indicates that you have already taken the first step in the right direction. Way to go! I’ve been where you are. I’ve been saddened, confused, hopeless, and felt no sense of direction. I’ve experienced grief, guilt, defeat, and anger. You’re not alone in this journey. One of the best decisions I have made and that you can make for yourself is the decision to heal. If you are interested in starting your healing journey, please feel free to contact me for your free 15 minute consultation.
(463) 241-3830 View (463) 241-3830
Photo of Healing H.E.R. 365, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Healing H.E.R. 365
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avon, IN 46123  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Ciera Jackson. I have been in social services over 15 years. I have a passion for serving people who desire wholeness, compassionate accountability, and growth. Narcissistic abuse, kinship care, and pastoral care are issues close to my heart. It's my niche. I counsel a wide range of people with the goal of dealing with heartbreak, emotional wounds, and rejection. I believe when those issues are addressed people can see themselves with clear lenses. Additionally, they can fully operate in their purpose and build future generations that are whole, heard, and understood.
Hello! My name is Ciera Jackson. I have been in social services over 15 years. I have a passion for serving people who desire wholeness, compassionate accountability, and growth. Narcissistic abuse, kinship care, and pastoral care are issues close to my heart. It's my niche. I counsel a wide range of people with the goal of dealing with heartbreak, emotional wounds, and rejection. I believe when those issues are addressed people can see themselves with clear lenses. Additionally, they can fully operate in their purpose and build future generations that are whole, heard, and understood.
(317) 548-8851 View (317) 548-8851
Photo of William Andrews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
William Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
William R. Andrews is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor with over 40 years of experience in the mental health field. He earned a Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University and a BA in Psychology from IUPUI. He has experience as a therapist working with adults and teenagers in various settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health, residential facilities, and community-based addiction programs. He primarily uses a person-centered approach and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
William R. Andrews is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor with over 40 years of experience in the mental health field. He earned a Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University and a BA in Psychology from IUPUI. He has experience as a therapist working with adults and teenagers in various settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health, residential facilities, and community-based addiction programs. He primarily uses a person-centered approach and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(463) 218-6986 View (463) 218-6986
Photo of Dr. Melissa Ann Ketner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Dr. Melissa Ann Ketner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHSc, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123  (Online Only)
I love working with clients across the lifespan. I csee children as young as elementary school and work with clients/families up into the time of death. I have provided many of these services in-person in a hospital or home care setting while working 10 years in hospice & oncology programs. Supporting folks during their grief is my specialty, whether due to changes in the life cycle, chronic illness, and terminality. I also personally am a guardian and caregiver for my parent who lives with Bipolar Disorder and advanced Alzheimer's Disease, so I bring several years of personal advocacy and practice experience based on this role.
I love working with clients across the lifespan. I csee children as young as elementary school and work with clients/families up into the time of death. I have provided many of these services in-person in a hospital or home care setting while working 10 years in hospice & oncology programs. Supporting folks during their grief is my specialty, whether due to changes in the life cycle, chronic illness, and terminality. I also personally am a guardian and caregiver for my parent who lives with Bipolar Disorder and advanced Alzheimer's Disease, so I bring several years of personal advocacy and practice experience based on this role.
(317) 676-6631 View (317) 676-6631
Photo of Stephanie Guingrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, IN
Stephanie Guingrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Stephanie Guingrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana with 20+ years of experience in the social services field. She has experience providing individual, group, and family therapy to diverse populations in an inpatient and residential setting as well as a Community Mental Health Center. Stephanie's passion is working with children, adolescents and their families. She focuses on connecting with her clients and using their strengths to help them achieve their goals.
Stephanie Guingrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Indiana with 20+ years of experience in the social services field. She has experience providing individual, group, and family therapy to diverse populations in an inpatient and residential setting as well as a Community Mental Health Center. Stephanie's passion is working with children, adolescents and their families. She focuses on connecting with her clients and using their strengths to help them achieve their goals.
(317) 623-4936 View (317) 623-4936

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Avon, IN

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Avon, IN who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
92% Anxiety
74% Coping Skills
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Stress
65% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Anthem | Elevance
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% Aetna

How Therapists in Avon, IN see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Avon?

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.