Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

View neighborhoods in Phoenix
Photo of Heather Koch Gonzales in Phoenix, AZ
Heather Koch Gonzales
PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a firm believer that autism is a distinct neurotype and that neurodivergence is not a condition to be cured or an autistic person radically changed. Instead, I believe that autistic people can be supported in learning skills that can improve their quality of life in a nurturing and collaborative teaching environment that builds on their strengths and interests. I am not qualified to diagnose autism. I am not a counselor or a psychologist. I specifically focus on skill building and problem behavior reduction through ABA.
I am a firm believer that autism is a distinct neurotype and that neurodivergence is not a condition to be cured or an autistic person radically changed. Instead, I believe that autistic people can be supported in learning skills that can improve their quality of life in a nurturing and collaborative teaching environment that builds on their strengths and interests. I am not qualified to diagnose autism. I am not a counselor or a psychologist. I specifically focus on skill building and problem behavior reduction through ABA.
(623) 462-1632 View (623) 462-1632
Photo of Soundmind Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Soundmind Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
Not accepting new clients
We serve individuals who are currently finding it difficult to manage life stressors as it relates to work, relationships, dealing with losses, school stress and/or other life challenges.
We serve individuals who are currently finding it difficult to manage life stressors as it relates to work, relationships, dealing with losses, school stress and/or other life challenges.
(480) 382-6522 View (480) 382-6522
Photo of Eva Cristina Norheim, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Eva Cristina Norheim
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85086
It takes time to pick up the pieces. Parts of you may feel broken, paralyzed, and unheard. With intergenerational systems of dysfunction, very few of us grew up with anything approaching healthy relating. As mammals, we can use the natural force towards connection along with regulating our autonomic fitness to return to our joyful and intuitive self. I can help adults and teens create movement in the isolated "stuck places" and integrate unprocessed pain and suffering. I am passionate about serving children who also highly benefit from therapy by communicating their inner world through play.
It takes time to pick up the pieces. Parts of you may feel broken, paralyzed, and unheard. With intergenerational systems of dysfunction, very few of us grew up with anything approaching healthy relating. As mammals, we can use the natural force towards connection along with regulating our autonomic fitness to return to our joyful and intuitive self. I can help adults and teens create movement in the isolated "stuck places" and integrate unprocessed pain and suffering. I am passionate about serving children who also highly benefit from therapy by communicating their inner world through play.
(480) 613-4993 View (480) 613-4993
Photo of Divine Health and Counseling Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Divine Health and Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
Are you in need of a safe space to process personal experiences and life challenges? Are you struggling with racing thoughts and managing your mood effectively? I'm here to help. I work with individuals, couples, and families to utilize their unique talents and capacities to overcome interpersonal issues, family challenges, and traumatic experiences. My approach to therapy is collaborative and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength Base, EMDR, and Psycho-Education. I am passionate, authentic, and dedicated to providing services to individuals and families from a culturally sensitive lens and a nonjudgmental stance.
Are you in need of a safe space to process personal experiences and life challenges? Are you struggling with racing thoughts and managing your mood effectively? I'm here to help. I work with individuals, couples, and families to utilize their unique talents and capacities to overcome interpersonal issues, family challenges, and traumatic experiences. My approach to therapy is collaborative and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength Base, EMDR, and Psycho-Education. I am passionate, authentic, and dedicated to providing services to individuals and families from a culturally sensitive lens and a nonjudgmental stance.
(651) 273-9029 View (651) 273-9029
Photo of Shanika Toms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Shanika Toms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Are you struggling to know which direction to go in life? Are you looking to begin to address issues that are making your life unmanageable or are you looking to continue to work through issues that are more complicated than you expected? I am an independently licensed therapist that specializes in working with individuals who feel imbalanced, lost and disconnected. I have been told that I have a natural ability to draw out the authentic self and assist those who want to achieve a higher level of emotional and spiritual awareness.
Are you struggling to know which direction to go in life? Are you looking to begin to address issues that are making your life unmanageable or are you looking to continue to work through issues that are more complicated than you expected? I am an independently licensed therapist that specializes in working with individuals who feel imbalanced, lost and disconnected. I have been told that I have a natural ability to draw out the authentic self and assist those who want to achieve a higher level of emotional and spiritual awareness.
(928) 473-1064 View (928) 473-1064
Photo of Kelsey Cody Skowronski, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Kelsey Cody Skowronski
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My ideal client is someone navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, stress, and stage-of-life issues. They seek support to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Their goal is to cultivate a more fulfilling life, fostering self-discovery and healthier connections. I aim to empower them in their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth.
My ideal client is someone navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, stress, and stage-of-life issues. They seek support to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Their goal is to cultivate a more fulfilling life, fostering self-discovery and healthier connections. I aim to empower them in their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth.
(623) 462-0862 View (623) 462-0862
Photo of Suzana Adams Psy.D. LLC, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Suzana Adams Psy.D. LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Most of my work involves working with depression, anxiety, trauma, losses, and life adaptations with early and late adolescents, adults, and couples. I have a strong experience working cross-culturally and including the family in the therapy if necessary. My approach is Existential-Humanistic with a strong Psychodynamic base. I may use cognitive therapy, and techniques such as EMDR, Play, Art, or IFS when necessary.
Most of my work involves working with depression, anxiety, trauma, losses, and life adaptations with early and late adolescents, adults, and couples. I have a strong experience working cross-culturally and including the family in the therapy if necessary. My approach is Existential-Humanistic with a strong Psychodynamic base. I may use cognitive therapy, and techniques such as EMDR, Play, Art, or IFS when necessary.
(602) 714-9326 View (602) 714-9326
Photo of Shuheng Hu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Shuheng Hu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can help us gain a better understanding of ourselves, our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and develop new skills and strategies to cope with life's challenges. Sometimes it's a slow realization that what worked in the past isn't cutting it anymore. Other times, it's a sudden, painful event that leaves us feeling unmoored. Maybe it's been a long-running sense that our experiences or emotions are just different from the people around us. In therapy, we work together to find a new path so that you can feel grounded, happier, and more confident.
Therapy can help us gain a better understanding of ourselves, our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and develop new skills and strategies to cope with life's challenges. Sometimes it's a slow realization that what worked in the past isn't cutting it anymore. Other times, it's a sudden, painful event that leaves us feeling unmoored. Maybe it's been a long-running sense that our experiences or emotions are just different from the people around us. In therapy, we work together to find a new path so that you can feel grounded, happier, and more confident.
(480) 418-8738 View (480) 418-8738
Photo of Lorin Clinkenbeard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Lorin Clinkenbeard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85086
Accepting new clients: Are you struggling with feelings of negative emotions that are paralyzing? Ever have thoughts such as "I'm not deserving, I'm not good enough, I'm a failure, or I can't trust myself"? These can be healed and addressed with counseling while learning how to appropriately manage emotions through effective coping and healing of past traumas. EMDR is a form of treatment that allows the body to heal by eliminating the impact of negative beliefs from unresolved trauma and emotional distress. I integrate parts work and the goal is to let all parts of you feel seen and heard.
Accepting new clients: Are you struggling with feelings of negative emotions that are paralyzing? Ever have thoughts such as "I'm not deserving, I'm not good enough, I'm a failure, or I can't trust myself"? These can be healed and addressed with counseling while learning how to appropriately manage emotions through effective coping and healing of past traumas. EMDR is a form of treatment that allows the body to heal by eliminating the impact of negative beliefs from unresolved trauma and emotional distress. I integrate parts work and the goal is to let all parts of you feel seen and heard.
(628) 561-2384 View (628) 561-2384
Photo of Hannah Osmanski, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Hannah Osmanski
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
You did it! You took the first step, you opened your browser and asked for help. Whatever may have lead you to this page, whether it be increased anxiety, depression, relationship or work stress, I'm glad you are here. Starting counseling can be an intimidating unknown. I want to help take some of the unknown out of this process! If you choose to work with me we will focus on identifying the barriers that may be preventing you from healing from past trauma, improving your relationships, and achieving the quality of life that you desire. Together we will work towards removing those barriers within a safe and supportive environment.
You did it! You took the first step, you opened your browser and asked for help. Whatever may have lead you to this page, whether it be increased anxiety, depression, relationship or work stress, I'm glad you are here. Starting counseling can be an intimidating unknown. I want to help take some of the unknown out of this process! If you choose to work with me we will focus on identifying the barriers that may be preventing you from healing from past trauma, improving your relationships, and achieving the quality of life that you desire. Together we will work towards removing those barriers within a safe and supportive environment.
(872) 266-8476 View (872) 266-8476
Photo of Briaunna Guthrie, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Briaunna Guthrie
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hey! I am Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) working with a diverse client population. I have a background working in the field to address anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, coping skills, social skills, regulation skills, executive functioning skills, and other client/couple concerns. I like to meet all of my client where they are so they feel heard and understood. I am looking forward to meeting you where you are and taking you where you want to be!
Hey! I am Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) working with a diverse client population. I have a background working in the field to address anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, coping skills, social skills, regulation skills, executive functioning skills, and other client/couple concerns. I like to meet all of my client where they are so they feel heard and understood. I am looking forward to meeting you where you are and taking you where you want to be!
(602) 860-6166 View (602) 860-6166
Photo of Glenda Roberts Henman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Glenda Roberts Henman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
We all face struggles in life that can sometimes throw us off balance. These experiences may range from early life adversity to recent life transitions and stressors. Seeking support through counseling can help us discover inner strengths that have helped us survive and explore new skills that can help us learn to thrive.
We all face struggles in life that can sometimes throw us off balance. These experiences may range from early life adversity to recent life transitions and stressors. Seeking support through counseling can help us discover inner strengths that have helped us survive and explore new skills that can help us learn to thrive.
(602) 932-6569 View (602) 932-6569
Photo of Tonga T Bryant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Tonga T Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
If you’re trying to figure out ways to deal with the increased anxiety and/or depression related to the changes you are facing at this time there is therapeutic support available to you. Often times we experience transitions in life and need help through it; help is just a click or phone call away. You want to feel better and perhaps need skills to assist you as well as a therapist who truly care’s about you and your goals. If you are a parent experiencing challenges with your teen’s behavior and would like to improve your relationship through therapy; I can support you and your teen’s goals. Reach out today for a free consultation.
If you’re trying to figure out ways to deal with the increased anxiety and/or depression related to the changes you are facing at this time there is therapeutic support available to you. Often times we experience transitions in life and need help through it; help is just a click or phone call away. You want to feel better and perhaps need skills to assist you as well as a therapist who truly care’s about you and your goals. If you are a parent experiencing challenges with your teen’s behavior and would like to improve your relationship through therapy; I can support you and your teen’s goals. Reach out today for a free consultation.
(480) 933-2240 View (480) 933-2240
Photo of Janae Andrew, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Janae Andrew
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Hi there, I’m Janae. I’m a secular, non-binary Licensed Professional Counselor and my pronouns are she/they. If the internet (or someone you know) has sent you to my profile, my guess is that you’ve had to bury your real values and desires in order to survive. You’re depressed, anxious, angry, addicted, and probably fucking exhausted. Possibly in physical pain too. Or maybe just numb. I work with (mostly queer) folx recovering from religious trauma and other oppressive systems because I’ve been there myself - and I can tell you that there is a way out. Want to know more about my story? Check it out at www.getrealcounseling.com.
Hi there, I’m Janae. I’m a secular, non-binary Licensed Professional Counselor and my pronouns are she/they. If the internet (or someone you know) has sent you to my profile, my guess is that you’ve had to bury your real values and desires in order to survive. You’re depressed, anxious, angry, addicted, and probably fucking exhausted. Possibly in physical pain too. Or maybe just numb. I work with (mostly queer) folx recovering from religious trauma and other oppressive systems because I’ve been there myself - and I can tell you that there is a way out. Want to know more about my story? Check it out at www.getrealcounseling.com.
(623) 263-7162 View (623) 263-7162
Photo of Miracle Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Phoenix, AZ
Miracle Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I enjoy working within the family dynamic. My passion is helping couples through transitions, relational issues, parenting and marital/couple conflict. I also work with clients on an individual basis who are struggling in their personal lives with problems such as anxiety and depression. My experience includes working with teenagers, young adults, adults and the wise.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I enjoy working within the family dynamic. My passion is helping couples through transitions, relational issues, parenting and marital/couple conflict. I also work with clients on an individual basis who are struggling in their personal lives with problems such as anxiety and depression. My experience includes working with teenagers, young adults, adults and the wise.
(602) 786-7480 View (602) 786-7480
Photo of Jordin Bourque, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Jordin Bourque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85051  (Online Only)
Life often presents us with difficult challenges, causing stress and discomfort. These are not things you have to navigate alone. In my practice I work to create a compassionate and collaborative environment with you to promote healing. I specialize in working with young adults and adults to address anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression, and relational difficulties.
Life often presents us with difficult challenges, causing stress and discomfort. These are not things you have to navigate alone. In my practice I work to create a compassionate and collaborative environment with you to promote healing. I specialize in working with young adults and adults to address anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression, and relational difficulties.
(602) 641-3990 View (602) 641-3990
Photo of Shelly Marie Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Shelly Marie Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
I am licensed in California and Arizona. Let's talk... I believe that life challenges, such as relationship issues, communication problems, anxiety, and depression can be managed and overcome. There is hope ! There are answers ! You can experience happiness in your life, again ! My background as a therapist includes working with adults and adolescents who are experiencing crisis in their lives due to past and/or present circumstances. Life transitions, PTSD, bullying, self-harm, grief, unresolved relationship issues, divorce, addiction, and/or mental illness can trigger irrational thinking, negative emotions, and harmful behaviors.
I am licensed in California and Arizona. Let's talk... I believe that life challenges, such as relationship issues, communication problems, anxiety, and depression can be managed and overcome. There is hope ! There are answers ! You can experience happiness in your life, again ! My background as a therapist includes working with adults and adolescents who are experiencing crisis in their lives due to past and/or present circumstances. Life transitions, PTSD, bullying, self-harm, grief, unresolved relationship issues, divorce, addiction, and/or mental illness can trigger irrational thinking, negative emotions, and harmful behaviors.
(480) 896-5200 View (480) 896-5200
Photo of Nancy Harris, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Nancy Harris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Do you find yourself frustrated by your child’s behavior? Do you sometimes catch yourself wishing you were a more effective parent? Parenting can give you enormous rewards and also deeply challenge your limits. It can bring up experiences from your own upbringing that you thought you had left behind. I help parents address the stresses that come with parenting so they can focus on enjoying their relationship with their children.
Do you find yourself frustrated by your child’s behavior? Do you sometimes catch yourself wishing you were a more effective parent? Parenting can give you enormous rewards and also deeply challenge your limits. It can bring up experiences from your own upbringing that you thought you had left behind. I help parents address the stresses that come with parenting so they can focus on enjoying their relationship with their children.
(602) 497-0371 View (602) 497-0371
Photo of Ryan Barclay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Ryan Barclay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I am a Genderqueer, neurodivergent trauma therapist specializing in generational and familial trauma, depth psychology, and empowerment. I primarily work with Queer, Autistic, and Artistic folks who are ready to dive deep to understand themselves and what they've been through. We explore the influences of relationships, past generations, and society on their well-being so that they can heal and grow. They are prepared for the hard work as I help them ease their suffering. As a therapist, I believe in true collaboration for your care, which means I want you to be active in dictating the direction of your health and growth.
I am a Genderqueer, neurodivergent trauma therapist specializing in generational and familial trauma, depth psychology, and empowerment. I primarily work with Queer, Autistic, and Artistic folks who are ready to dive deep to understand themselves and what they've been through. We explore the influences of relationships, past generations, and society on their well-being so that they can heal and grow. They are prepared for the hard work as I help them ease their suffering. As a therapist, I believe in true collaboration for your care, which means I want you to be active in dictating the direction of your health and growth.
(602) 962-9176 View (602) 962-9176
Photo of Virginia Lea Bagby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Virginia Lea Bagby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MAdm
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Hello, I am Virginia!  I'm a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of providing Cognitive Behavioral, Play, Narrative, and Family Systems counseling to clients who have experienced various types of trauma and life stressors.  I earned my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University. I've worked in many different clinical settings in Arizona, New Jersey, and New York City ever since.
Hello, I am Virginia!  I'm a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of providing Cognitive Behavioral, Play, Narrative, and Family Systems counseling to clients who have experienced various types of trauma and life stressors.  I earned my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University. I've worked in many different clinical settings in Arizona, New Jersey, and New York City ever since.
(602) 755-4596 View (602) 755-4596

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenix?

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.