Therapists in Cedar Hill, TX

Photo of Keyhole Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Keyhole Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma from childhood, teenage, and young adulthood? Or perhaps you struggle with motivation, burnout, work-life balance, or moving from one phase of life to the next. Many of us are. The ways in which we choose to make meaning of these experiences are fundamentally personal choices.
Are you struggling with trauma from childhood, teenage, and young adulthood? Or perhaps you struggle with motivation, burnout, work-life balance, or moving from one phase of life to the next. Many of us are. The ways in which we choose to make meaning of these experiences are fundamentally personal choices.
(469) 529-7298 View (469) 529-7298
Photo of Shani Lutricia Leal, Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Shani Lutricia Leal
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
I appreciate your time to reach out for help. I am a licensed professional counselor in the mental health field for seven years. I have had the opportunity to work with various ages, ethnicities, and international cultures.
I appreciate your time to reach out for help. I am a licensed professional counselor in the mental health field for seven years. I have had the opportunity to work with various ages, ethnicities, and international cultures.
(469) 947-6356 View (469) 947-6356
Photo of D'Erica Davis in Cedar Hill, TX
D'Erica Davis
MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
I work with emerging young adults, and those processing how to actually adult with the age group 16-30. I feel that my purpose has always been to advocate for those that haven't quite found their voice yet, as well as advocating for those that may have lost their voice somewhere down the line in their lives. I use CBT/REBT techniques to challenge my clients to dig deep into their inner thoughts, and in return this allows them to slowly begin to change those toxic thinking patterns. Continuously helping others realize that regardless of their struggles, life is still just beginning for you!
I work with emerging young adults, and those processing how to actually adult with the age group 16-30. I feel that my purpose has always been to advocate for those that haven't quite found their voice yet, as well as advocating for those that may have lost their voice somewhere down the line in their lives. I use CBT/REBT techniques to challenge my clients to dig deep into their inner thoughts, and in return this allows them to slowly begin to change those toxic thinking patterns. Continuously helping others realize that regardless of their struggles, life is still just beginning for you!
(469) 256-6472 View (469) 256-6472
Photo of Suzanne Glover, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Suzanne Glover
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
As a psychotherapist, I understand that there are many different paths to healing and living your best life. Psychotherapy and counseling are about building a trusting relationship between you and your therapist and making a connection through your journey of change and growth within yourself and your relationships. I work with individuals, families, and, couples. I work with people who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and stress. I work with couples that have experienced disappointments in their relationships and have forgotten the importance of liking their significant other even though the love exists.
As a psychotherapist, I understand that there are many different paths to healing and living your best life. Psychotherapy and counseling are about building a trusting relationship between you and your therapist and making a connection through your journey of change and growth within yourself and your relationships. I work with individuals, families, and, couples. I work with people who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and stress. I work with couples that have experienced disappointments in their relationships and have forgotten the importance of liking their significant other even though the love exists.
(469) 382-4809 View (469) 382-4809
Photo of Marie E. Benjamin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Marie E. Benjamin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
A great quote says that without a goal, you can't score. The same concept is taken a step further in the Bible, where it says that without a vision, people perish. It's easy to overlook the importance of courageous goals and bold, new visions--that can create a new quality of life for ourselves and those we love.
A great quote says that without a goal, you can't score. The same concept is taken a step further in the Bible, where it says that without a vision, people perish. It's easy to overlook the importance of courageous goals and bold, new visions--that can create a new quality of life for ourselves and those we love.
(214) 974-3310 View (214) 974-3310
Photo of I.M. Resilient Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
I.M. Resilient Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. I have 5 years experience serving children, adolescents, families, and veterans through individual or group therapy who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. More specifically, addressing a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and personality disorders. My counseling philosophy includes Rational Emotive Behavior and Choice Reality Therapy, placing emphasis on reshaping core beliefs in those individuals experiencing a variety of mental health conditions,
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. I have 5 years experience serving children, adolescents, families, and veterans through individual or group therapy who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. More specifically, addressing a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and personality disorders. My counseling philosophy includes Rational Emotive Behavior and Choice Reality Therapy, placing emphasis on reshaping core beliefs in those individuals experiencing a variety of mental health conditions,
(469) 812-5498 View (469) 812-5498
Photo of Adrianna White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Adrianna White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Adrianna White is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Adrianna helps clients increase awareness of situations they may struggle with, which will help them approach life with a different perspective, instill hope, and bridge healthier interactions with individuals they come in contact with. She will help them learn how to deal with different situations and bring about a positive change within their lives.
Adrianna White is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Adrianna helps clients increase awareness of situations they may struggle with, which will help them approach life with a different perspective, instill hope, and bridge healthier interactions with individuals they come in contact with. She will help them learn how to deal with different situations and bring about a positive change within their lives.
(469) 871-6438 View (469) 871-6438
Photo of Trinity M Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Trinity M Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC-S, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
I am available to encourage and motivate you, while helping you to navigate through the current issues in your life. I provide a therapeutic, relaxed, and confidential atmosphere in which to explore your feelings, beliefs, & behaviors. Collaboratively, we will work together to help you become your "best self". My counseling approach is person centered with a mixture of solution focused. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, co occurring disorders, and addiction issues. I believe my experience in varied sectors of mental health service delivery makes me an ideal therapist to guide you through life's difficulties.
I am available to encourage and motivate you, while helping you to navigate through the current issues in your life. I provide a therapeutic, relaxed, and confidential atmosphere in which to explore your feelings, beliefs, & behaviors. Collaboratively, we will work together to help you become your "best self". My counseling approach is person centered with a mixture of solution focused. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, co occurring disorders, and addiction issues. I believe my experience in varied sectors of mental health service delivery makes me an ideal therapist to guide you through life's difficulties.
(469) 904-0307 View (469) 904-0307
Photo of Dawn W. Blunt, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Cedar Hill, TX
Dawn W. Blunt
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MHR, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
I work with adults, couples, teens and families from diverse backgrounds that are dealing with life’s challenges. I am passionate about helping clients who are working through trauma and neglect. I understand that survivors of emotional, physical, and childhood abuse carry wounds that others cannot see. Stress management, anxiety, depression, couple’s conflict, relationships, family issues, and trauma are also my specialties. I provide a supportive, open, and judgement-free zone where clients can be authentic and express themselves, so they connect, heal, and grow.
I work with adults, couples, teens and families from diverse backgrounds that are dealing with life’s challenges. I am passionate about helping clients who are working through trauma and neglect. I understand that survivors of emotional, physical, and childhood abuse carry wounds that others cannot see. Stress management, anxiety, depression, couple’s conflict, relationships, family issues, and trauma are also my specialties. I provide a supportive, open, and judgement-free zone where clients can be authentic and express themselves, so they connect, heal, and grow.
(469) 454-8629 View (469) 454-8629
Photo of Tamara Jackson | Lpc -A Supervised By Trinity Ward Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Cedar Hill, TX
Tamara Jackson | Lpc -A Supervised By Trinity Ward Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, RYT
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75106  (Online Only)
Welcome! The therapeutic relationship is a sacred space for growth, insight, and change. I work collaboratively with clients helping them to connect to their best selves and maximize their strengths in a non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space. I practice a strength-based, trauma-informed approach that includes integrative modalities individualized to each client, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions. This work is a process; we explore and examine your desired goals and story together.
Welcome! The therapeutic relationship is a sacred space for growth, insight, and change. I work collaboratively with clients helping them to connect to their best selves and maximize their strengths in a non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space. I practice a strength-based, trauma-informed approach that includes integrative modalities individualized to each client, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions. This work is a process; we explore and examine your desired goals and story together.
(469) 414-5068 View (469) 414-5068
Photo of Michael Anthony Johnson Sr., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Hill, TX
Michael Anthony Johnson Sr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
The impact of childhood trauma, trust and intimacy issues, communicating effectively, parenting, relationship discord, divorce, depression, are all life issues that can be overwhelming if not unpacked and addressed. The fact that you are ready for change is an important attribute to bring to therapy. I commend you for seeking counseling. Seeking counsel is considered as a wise decision, so you are doing the right thing.
The impact of childhood trauma, trust and intimacy issues, communicating effectively, parenting, relationship discord, divorce, depression, are all life issues that can be overwhelming if not unpacked and addressed. The fact that you are ready for change is an important attribute to bring to therapy. I commend you for seeking counseling. Seeking counsel is considered as a wise decision, so you are doing the right thing.
(972) 360-9503 View (972) 360-9503
Photo of Cynthia Sanchez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Cynthia Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Cynthia loves working with children, tweens, teens, and young adults by creating a fun and creative space to express their unique individual identities. Cynthia strives to create a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment for the clients she serves. Cynthia hopes to establish a collaborative relationship not only with her child and adolescent clients, but also with their parents to create a loving, positive, and healthy family system in the household. Cynthia strives to help her clients increase their self-esteem and helping them overcome obstacles and identify strengths and goals to become resilient in future challenges.
Cynthia loves working with children, tweens, teens, and young adults by creating a fun and creative space to express their unique individual identities. Cynthia strives to create a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment for the clients she serves. Cynthia hopes to establish a collaborative relationship not only with her child and adolescent clients, but also with their parents to create a loving, positive, and healthy family system in the household. Cynthia strives to help her clients increase their self-esteem and helping them overcome obstacles and identify strengths and goals to become resilient in future challenges.
(214) 380-3713 View (214) 380-3713
Photo of Brooklyn Pete, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Brooklyn Pete
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Brooke 'Brooklyn' Gordon, I am a licensed therapist who is passionate about being a catalyst of healing, change, and radical advocacy in the lives of others. My values are rooted in the truth that we heal in community. Through ethical practice and striving to reach the highest competency I desire to leave an undeniable legacy in the field of Mental Health and Counseling. It would be my joy to journey through your healing process with you. I work from an existential lens coupled with a solution focused approach.I specialize in trauma, grief, and loss; relationship and family dynamics. I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT.
Hello my name is Brooke 'Brooklyn' Gordon, I am a licensed therapist who is passionate about being a catalyst of healing, change, and radical advocacy in the lives of others. My values are rooted in the truth that we heal in community. Through ethical practice and striving to reach the highest competency I desire to leave an undeniable legacy in the field of Mental Health and Counseling. It would be my joy to journey through your healing process with you. I work from an existential lens coupled with a solution focused approach.I specialize in trauma, grief, and loss; relationship and family dynamics. I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT.
(469) 947-7781 View (469) 947-7781
Photo of Tamika D Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Tamika D Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
In life we all face obstacles that can leave us confused, scared and even anxious. These obstacles can affect our emotional state, our relationships with loved ones and even our careers. My desire is to help clients address these obstacles and reach their full potential. I will use a technical integration approach of researched based theoretical modalities to meet each clients individual needs.
In life we all face obstacles that can leave us confused, scared and even anxious. These obstacles can affect our emotional state, our relationships with loved ones and even our careers. My desire is to help clients address these obstacles and reach their full potential. I will use a technical integration approach of researched based theoretical modalities to meet each clients individual needs.
(469) 291-9445 View (469) 291-9445
Photo of Trinity Consulting & Psychological Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Trinity Consulting & Psychological Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
To a customer, service. To all men, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.
To a customer, service. To all men, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.
(469) 378-9399 View (469) 378-9399
Photo of Kaylie Oliver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Kaylie Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone brings something special to the table and I aim to help clients explore and maintain self-confidence. I work with people of all ages suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, sex issues, substance abuse, and behavioral issues. I work hard to get to know my clients so that we can then build a collaborative plan for achieving personal goals. I believe that I am the expert on clinical mental health and my clients are the experts on themselves. Together we make a great team!
I believe that everyone brings something special to the table and I aim to help clients explore and maintain self-confidence. I work with people of all ages suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, sex issues, substance abuse, and behavioral issues. I work hard to get to know my clients so that we can then build a collaborative plan for achieving personal goals. I believe that I am the expert on clinical mental health and my clients are the experts on themselves. Together we make a great team!
(469) 908-3157 View (469) 908-3157
Photo of Shanequiwa Sledge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Shanequiwa Sledge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Shanequiwa Sledge. I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed chemical dependency counselor intern. My experience is in trauma, grief, and loss; as well as, child and family/relationship dynamics. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience in working with a variety of traumas and other life adjusting experiences. I have worked with children within the school system, children and families in underserved communities, survivors and families of domestic violence and other abuse; and I have worked with severe mental illness in a behavioral health hospital.
Hello my name is Shanequiwa Sledge. I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed chemical dependency counselor intern. My experience is in trauma, grief, and loss; as well as, child and family/relationship dynamics. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience in working with a variety of traumas and other life adjusting experiences. I have worked with children within the school system, children and families in underserved communities, survivors and families of domestic violence and other abuse; and I have worked with severe mental illness in a behavioral health hospital.
(469) 838-5849 View (469) 838-5849
Photo of Monica Y Davis, LPC Intern in Cedar Hill, TX
Monica Y Davis
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
My long-life mission is to Empower and Strengthen Families. Style of therapy is informal, compassionate, and responsive to each person’s unique needs. We will work together by guiding you to explore your concerns and build greater understanding of the different aspects of your experience, from the emotional, mental, and physical to the family, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. I have experience in working with individuals and families that struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Family Conflict, Grief and Loss, Parenting-children and adolescent issues, Stress, and Relational Issues.
My long-life mission is to Empower and Strengthen Families. Style of therapy is informal, compassionate, and responsive to each person’s unique needs. We will work together by guiding you to explore your concerns and build greater understanding of the different aspects of your experience, from the emotional, mental, and physical to the family, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. I have experience in working with individuals and families that struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Family Conflict, Grief and Loss, Parenting-children and adolescent issues, Stress, and Relational Issues.
(214) 983-1464 View (214) 983-1464
Photo of Marlene Hood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Hill, TX
Marlene Hood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75106  (Online Only)
My counseling philosophy is simple, “It is okay, not to be okay”. Many of us do not completely understand this essential and fundamentally important concept. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care. I enjoy working with teenagers, ages 13 to 18, adults and married couples. My heart beats for those who are in pain. I take pleasure in assisting clients learn healthy and therapeutic tools to cope with life’s curve balls.
My counseling philosophy is simple, “It is okay, not to be okay”. Many of us do not completely understand this essential and fundamentally important concept. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care. I enjoy working with teenagers, ages 13 to 18, adults and married couples. My heart beats for those who are in pain. I take pleasure in assisting clients learn healthy and therapeutic tools to cope with life’s curve balls.
(469) 874-0731 View (469) 874-0731
Photo of Dr. James M in Cedar Hill, TX
Dr. James M
DBA , NLP, CMLC, ScD
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
I'm Dr. James I have a DBA in Business Administration, and Sc.D in Science. I'm a Certified NLP Therapist. I'm also a Certified Master Life Coach. I have a DM in Metaphysics from Universal Life Church . I'm here to serve you, I'm looking forward to helping you grow and improve.Go to aunlp.org and look me up. This is the NLP state wide site for Therapist. NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. NLP is an approach to Psychotherapy and Behavioral change.It is based on the relationship between behavioral patterns and patterns of thought. We also help change mental and emotional behavior patterns. Looking forward to meeting you.
I'm Dr. James I have a DBA in Business Administration, and Sc.D in Science. I'm a Certified NLP Therapist. I'm also a Certified Master Life Coach. I have a DM in Metaphysics from Universal Life Church . I'm here to serve you, I'm looking forward to helping you grow and improve.Go to aunlp.org and look me up. This is the NLP state wide site for Therapist. NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. NLP is an approach to Psychotherapy and Behavioral change.It is based on the relationship between behavioral patterns and patterns of thought. We also help change mental and emotional behavior patterns. Looking forward to meeting you.
(469) 629-7513 View (469) 629-7513

See more therapy options for Cedar Hill

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cedar Hill, TX

90+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Cedar Hill, TX who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
86% Anxiety
82% Relationship Issues
76% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
72% Stress
62% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
76% Aetna

How Therapists in Cedar Hill, TX see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Cedar Hill?

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.