Therapists in Great Neck, NY

Cindy Jill Cassiere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11020  (Online Only)
I’ve been a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 28 years. I have experience with those who have depression, anxiety and those who are neurodivergent. I work with ages 13 and up. I also do marriage counseling and family therapy. I do take certain insurance companies. I offer affordable private pay at $50 for 45 minutes. All sessions are virtual. Please message me for inquires
I’ve been a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 28 years. I have experience with those who have depression, anxiety and those who are neurodivergent. I work with ages 13 and up. I also do marriage counseling and family therapy. I do take certain insurance companies. I offer affordable private pay at $50 for 45 minutes. All sessions are virtual. Please message me for inquires
(516) 518-2646 View (516) 518-2646
Photo of Leslie E Popoff, Psychologist in Great Neck, NY
Leslie E Popoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Psychologist with over 30 years of experience treating clients who span all age groups. I have advanced training beyond my Ph.D. that includes a certificate in Psychotherapy from Adelphi University. I view the therapeutic process as a collaborative one in which the client and I work together to explore current concerns, past experiences as they may relate to patterns of behavior, roadblocks to achieving one's goals, leading to an enhanced awareness of one's personal control. Building resilience is the key to coping with the challenges and transitions that life brings.
I am a licensed Psychologist with over 30 years of experience treating clients who span all age groups. I have advanced training beyond my Ph.D. that includes a certificate in Psychotherapy from Adelphi University. I view the therapeutic process as a collaborative one in which the client and I work together to explore current concerns, past experiences as they may relate to patterns of behavior, roadblocks to achieving one's goals, leading to an enhanced awareness of one's personal control. Building resilience is the key to coping with the challenges and transitions that life brings.
(516) 613-3011 View (516) 613-3011
Photo of Dustin Kahoud, Psychologist in Great Neck, NY
Dustin Kahoud
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
If you are reading this, it is likely that you are searching for change. Something new to impact your life. You might be searching for a way to feel and live your life differently. You might be seeking more satisfying relationships. Many are looking for relief from painful feelings and experiences. Maybe you are desiring more meaningful perspectives on stressful situations and relationship conflicts. In striving to achieve any of these ends, you cannot underestimate the impact of processing your feelings and communicating your experiences through a discussion like you have never had prior to coming in.
If you are reading this, it is likely that you are searching for change. Something new to impact your life. You might be searching for a way to feel and live your life differently. You might be seeking more satisfying relationships. Many are looking for relief from painful feelings and experiences. Maybe you are desiring more meaningful perspectives on stressful situations and relationship conflicts. In striving to achieve any of these ends, you cannot underestimate the impact of processing your feelings and communicating your experiences through a discussion like you have never had prior to coming in.
(516) 342-7683 View (516) 342-7683
Photo of Anne Liblich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
Anne Liblich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist for yourself, or loved one and unsure where to begin? Finding a new therapist can be quite daunting, and time consuming. Do you worry about connecting with your new therapist, or aligning with values? I believe the rapport built between therapist and client is a critical component in receiving adequate treatment, and support. I pride myself on creating a safe, nonjudgmental and compassionate space allowing one to feel comfortable discussing sensitive and private matters. I am available for tele-health sessions from the comfort of your own home in both MA & NY.
Are you looking for a therapist for yourself, or loved one and unsure where to begin? Finding a new therapist can be quite daunting, and time consuming. Do you worry about connecting with your new therapist, or aligning with values? I believe the rapport built between therapist and client is a critical component in receiving adequate treatment, and support. I pride myself on creating a safe, nonjudgmental and compassionate space allowing one to feel comfortable discussing sensitive and private matters. I am available for tele-health sessions from the comfort of your own home in both MA & NY.
(347) 321-9642 View (347) 321-9642
Photo of North Shore LI Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
North Shore LI Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a licensed psychotherapist in New York, and I’ll be with you, offering support, guidance and compassion when all that might be felt is helplessness, sadness, overwhelmed, anxiety, fear. But there is relief. I'm with you. Empathy, gratitude, humility and passion serve as my four cornerstones in helping to bring healing to pain. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to guide you through any obstacles you may face.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a licensed psychotherapist in New York, and I’ll be with you, offering support, guidance and compassion when all that might be felt is helplessness, sadness, overwhelmed, anxiety, fear. But there is relief. I'm with you. Empathy, gratitude, humility and passion serve as my four cornerstones in helping to bring healing to pain. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to guide you through any obstacles you may face.
(516) 302-4225 View (516) 302-4225
Photo of Elissa Siony, Psychologist in Great Neck, NY
Elissa Siony
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
I have been a clinical psychologist for over 20 years and have experience with a myriad of circumstances, disorders, and difficulties people face in life. I believe in establishing a safe environment in which one can freely express what they feel, think, believe, question, and share anything without worrying about judgment. Many circumstances in life have clouded one's ability to fulfill one's true potential and live life as one's best self. Together we will gain insight into the genesis of what troubles you and work to strengthen skills and strategies to cope effectively and establish personal growth.
I have been a clinical psychologist for over 20 years and have experience with a myriad of circumstances, disorders, and difficulties people face in life. I believe in establishing a safe environment in which one can freely express what they feel, think, believe, question, and share anything without worrying about judgment. Many circumstances in life have clouded one's ability to fulfill one's true potential and live life as one's best self. Together we will gain insight into the genesis of what troubles you and work to strengthen skills and strategies to cope effectively and establish personal growth.
(516) 217-2219 View (516) 217-2219
Photo of Yvette Mazloumi, Counselor in Great Neck, NY
Yvette Mazloumi
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I am a culturally sensitive, board certified mental health counselor, passionate about bringing healing to people and helping them overcome their personal and relational struggles in order to live more meaningful, empowered, and peaceful lives.
I am a culturally sensitive, board certified mental health counselor, passionate about bringing healing to people and helping them overcome their personal and relational struggles in order to live more meaningful, empowered, and peaceful lives.
(347) 705-0337 View (347) 705-0337
Photo of Christopher Warmann in Great Neck, NY
Christopher Warmann
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
Life is full of hardships. Sometimes we get overwhelmed and feel like there's no hope for tomorrow. As your therapist, I'm here to help you overcome your struggles and find your footing again. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and stress. I offer a non-judgmental, inclusive space where we can explore your thoughts and emotions at a pace comfortable for you.
Life is full of hardships. Sometimes we get overwhelmed and feel like there's no hope for tomorrow. As your therapist, I'm here to help you overcome your struggles and find your footing again. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and stress. I offer a non-judgmental, inclusive space where we can explore your thoughts and emotions at a pace comfortable for you.
(917) 912-2925 View (917) 912-2925
Photo of Robert Prince, Psychologist in Great Neck, NY
Robert Prince
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
People have different needs- some thrive in a therapy that is open ended, emphasizing self exploration and personal growth while others need a more focused approach. Sometimes a supportive, non-judgmental setting is essential, other times people may need a push to help them confront their problems and current life dilemmas. At times having a space of your own is necessary while other times the problem is in a relationship and it makes sense to come in with your significant other. Whatever the situation, the most important factor in successful therapy is the fit between therapist and client.
People have different needs- some thrive in a therapy that is open ended, emphasizing self exploration and personal growth while others need a more focused approach. Sometimes a supportive, non-judgmental setting is essential, other times people may need a push to help them confront their problems and current life dilemmas. At times having a space of your own is necessary while other times the problem is in a relationship and it makes sense to come in with your significant other. Whatever the situation, the most important factor in successful therapy is the fit between therapist and client.
(917) 287-1140 View (917) 287-1140
Photo of Jacklyn Krol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
Jacklyn Krol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11020  (Online Only)
WWW.PsychotherapistJackie.COM .....Are you finding yourself in the same relationship patterns that just aren't working for you? Are you struggling in your relationships with your partner, family, or friends? I am an attachment-based therapist and work with both individuals and couples. I help my clients recognize unhealthy patterns in their relationships and improve their communication skills. In addition, I also treat OCD by using the gold standard in treatment which is ERP.
WWW.PsychotherapistJackie.COM .....Are you finding yourself in the same relationship patterns that just aren't working for you? Are you struggling in your relationships with your partner, family, or friends? I am an attachment-based therapist and work with both individuals and couples. I help my clients recognize unhealthy patterns in their relationships and improve their communication skills. In addition, I also treat OCD by using the gold standard in treatment which is ERP.
(516) 418-8845 View (516) 418-8845
Photo of Carol Weissman, Psychologist in Great Neck, NY
Carol Weissman
Psychologist, EdD, PhD
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
Dr. Weissman is a licensed Psychologist with over thirty years experience. She works with individuals, couples, families, and groups. She specializes in life transitions including career and relationship changes, moving into retirement, parenthood, relocating, and creating a balanced life style. She works with clients conquering anxiety and depression, managing anger and stress, enhancing self-esteem, conquering addictions, weight loss and smoking. She practices eclectically, utilizing clinical and coaching interventions that she believes will work for the individual.
Dr. Weissman is a licensed Psychologist with over thirty years experience. She works with individuals, couples, families, and groups. She specializes in life transitions including career and relationship changes, moving into retirement, parenthood, relocating, and creating a balanced life style. She works with clients conquering anxiety and depression, managing anger and stress, enhancing self-esteem, conquering addictions, weight loss and smoking. She practices eclectically, utilizing clinical and coaching interventions that she believes will work for the individual.
(516) 268-0681 View (516) 268-0681
Photo of Judith Merbaum, Psychologist in Great Neck, NY
Judith Merbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
Life is filled with joy and pain. An emotionally healthy person is able to utilize internal resources to maximize the joy and navigate the pain. For many people, the most significant gratification in life comes from engaging in successful work and satisfying interpersonal relationships. I am interested in working with people to resolve the obstacles that keep them from achieving these goals.
Life is filled with joy and pain. An emotionally healthy person is able to utilize internal resources to maximize the joy and navigate the pain. For many people, the most significant gratification in life comes from engaging in successful work and satisfying interpersonal relationships. I am interested in working with people to resolve the obstacles that keep them from achieving these goals.
(516) 469-3833 View (516) 469-3833
Photo of Lynda Savyon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
Lynda Savyon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
You try your best to get along with everyone. But lately, it’s been difficult. You're upset about all the disagreements with your husband/wife/ significant other. You don’t feel heard. You find yourself lashing out at your kids. Bickering with your long-term partner. Thinking about divorce. Angry at your parents. Strained relations with your adult child. Disappointed by friends. You feel misunderstood. Hurt. Confused. You may feel stuck in depression or anxiety. Low energy. Stressed out. Every day is so overwhelming and exhausting. How can you dig yourself out of this rut? Therapy can help…
You try your best to get along with everyone. But lately, it’s been difficult. You're upset about all the disagreements with your husband/wife/ significant other. You don’t feel heard. You find yourself lashing out at your kids. Bickering with your long-term partner. Thinking about divorce. Angry at your parents. Strained relations with your adult child. Disappointed by friends. You feel misunderstood. Hurt. Confused. You may feel stuck in depression or anxiety. Low energy. Stressed out. Every day is so overwhelming and exhausting. How can you dig yourself out of this rut? Therapy can help…
(516) 586-0232 View (516) 586-0232
Photo of Fayina Cohen- Emdr Hypnosis Ketamine Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
Fayina Cohen- Emdr Hypnosis Ketamine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CHT
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
Have you tried traditional therapy and are now looking for a new "out of the box" way of addressing your life struggles, relational difficulties of spiritual questions ? Are you looking to take a deep dive into your subconscious mind and/or body's intelligence to get to the root causes and create the life changes that you desire? I am an integrative psychotherapist who incorporates, somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness and in some cases ketamine assisted psychotherapy. I support and empower my clients in their healing, transformation, and spiritual growth, while creating a life of joy, love and personal fulfillment.
Have you tried traditional therapy and are now looking for a new "out of the box" way of addressing your life struggles, relational difficulties of spiritual questions ? Are you looking to take a deep dive into your subconscious mind and/or body's intelligence to get to the root causes and create the life changes that you desire? I am an integrative psychotherapist who incorporates, somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness and in some cases ketamine assisted psychotherapy. I support and empower my clients in their healing, transformation, and spiritual growth, while creating a life of joy, love and personal fulfillment.
(516) 882-6719 View (516) 882-6719
Photo of Patricia Newmark-Carren, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
Patricia Newmark-Carren, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
Together we will identify and modify existing actions and behaviors to move off "dead center." We'll find a more productive and positive place that works for you. Working from a strength based perspective will enable individuals, families, children and their parents to meet life's challenges better. My many years of experience will facilitate the process.
Together we will identify and modify existing actions and behaviors to move off "dead center." We'll find a more productive and positive place that works for you. Working from a strength based perspective will enable individuals, families, children and their parents to meet life's challenges better. My many years of experience will facilitate the process.
(516) 272-4319 View (516) 272-4319
Photo of Tyler Stimpson in Great Neck, NY
Tyler Stimpson
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021
“Even in the midst of our deepest Winters, there is, within each of us, an invincible Summer.” My goal as a therapist is to assist you through this transition. I have specific experience working with adolescents and young adults in wilderness therapy and residential treatment programs. I place an emphasis on our therapeutic relationship, and through this alliance my clients have seen great progress in dealing with behavioral challenges, depression, anxiety, motivation issues, etc. I operate from a client-centered / Rogerian theoretical standpoint and incorporate elements of CBT, ACT, MI, DBT, and other techniques into sessions.
“Even in the midst of our deepest Winters, there is, within each of us, an invincible Summer.” My goal as a therapist is to assist you through this transition. I have specific experience working with adolescents and young adults in wilderness therapy and residential treatment programs. I place an emphasis on our therapeutic relationship, and through this alliance my clients have seen great progress in dealing with behavioral challenges, depression, anxiety, motivation issues, etc. I operate from a client-centered / Rogerian theoretical standpoint and incorporate elements of CBT, ACT, MI, DBT, and other techniques into sessions.
(516) 703-3934 View (516) 703-3934
Photo of N. Lael Telfeyan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
N. Lael Telfeyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW, R, ACSW
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
As an adult or teenager your feelings and experiences are unique. You may need to have someone who can acknowledge what is important to you and to help you find ways to improve the way you feel about yourself, your loved ones, your life and your environment! Because we live in a materialistic society, people often feel isolated or alone, unsupported, conflicted or pressured to change your values. My goal is to help you to discover your needs and to help you achieve a strong sense of self and an ability to utilize the resources and relationships available to you.
As an adult or teenager your feelings and experiences are unique. You may need to have someone who can acknowledge what is important to you and to help you find ways to improve the way you feel about yourself, your loved ones, your life and your environment! Because we live in a materialistic society, people often feel isolated or alone, unsupported, conflicted or pressured to change your values. My goal is to help you to discover your needs and to help you achieve a strong sense of self and an ability to utilize the resources and relationships available to you.
(917) 791-1021 View (917) 791-1021
Photo of David Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
David Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021
Since you have come to this place I will assume that you are struggling with something very difficult for you and that you are searching for effective ways to ease or finally end the pain. Sometimes your suffering can be traced to emotional, physical or spiritual injury, trauma or loss that you experienced many years ago, or it may have been very recent. At this moment only you know how you are suffering, what it is doing to you and your loved ones and the price that you are paying. Dealing with it alone can be very challenging, frustrating and frightening. This does not have to continue. Support is available.
Since you have come to this place I will assume that you are struggling with something very difficult for you and that you are searching for effective ways to ease or finally end the pain. Sometimes your suffering can be traced to emotional, physical or spiritual injury, trauma or loss that you experienced many years ago, or it may have been very recent. At this moment only you know how you are suffering, what it is doing to you and your loved ones and the price that you are paying. Dealing with it alone can be very challenging, frustrating and frightening. This does not have to continue. Support is available.
(516) 715-4548 View (516) 715-4548
Photo of Dr. Victoria Grinman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Great Neck, NY
Dr. Victoria Grinman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R, LICSW, CFTP, CA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021
I am a clinical therapist and professor who practices in New York and Massachusetts. Many times, challenges, pain, loss, and even suffering hold just as much a place in our lives as happiness, joy, peace and triumph. Utilizing best-practices and empirical knowledge, my hope is for our journey to be an intricate process of joining and receiving; discovering and growing; learning and practicing. My approach is integrative, taking into consideration all the systems within you, including race, culture and environment. I aim to hold a warm and supportive space wherein empowerment, balance and growth can be achieved.
I am a clinical therapist and professor who practices in New York and Massachusetts. Many times, challenges, pain, loss, and even suffering hold just as much a place in our lives as happiness, joy, peace and triumph. Utilizing best-practices and empirical knowledge, my hope is for our journey to be an intricate process of joining and receiving; discovering and growing; learning and practicing. My approach is integrative, taking into consideration all the systems within you, including race, culture and environment. I aim to hold a warm and supportive space wherein empowerment, balance and growth can be achieved.
(646) 791-3364 View (646) 791-3364
Photo of Mary Cho, Counselor in Great Neck, NY
Mary Cho
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
In this journey of life, as we go through the seasons, we all need someone to walk with. Whether young or old, at the core of our being, we want to be heard in the midst of all of life's "noises". My desire is to walk with you and hear you.
In this journey of life, as we go through the seasons, we all need someone to walk with. Whether young or old, at the core of our being, we want to be heard in the midst of all of life's "noises". My desire is to walk with you and hear you.
(516) 774-1925 View (516) 774-1925

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Great Neck, NY

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Great Neck, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
86% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
65% Family Conflict
64% Grief

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Great Neck, NY see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Great Neck?

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.