Therapists in Pompton Lakes, NJ

Photo of Bring Hope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Bring Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
My natural focus is on individuals experiencing symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I believe that making a strong connection right from the start is important and when an individual feels like he or she is understood, he or she is more willing to give the process of change a try. It also helps when those who experience ADHD or ASD are able to accept that what they are living with is not a disability but rather a strength and that it is okay to feel and be different. I say this from experience because I am childhood diagnosed.
My natural focus is on individuals experiencing symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I believe that making a strong connection right from the start is important and when an individual feels like he or she is understood, he or she is more willing to give the process of change a try. It also helps when those who experience ADHD or ASD are able to accept that what they are living with is not a disability but rather a strength and that it is okay to feel and be different. I say this from experience because I am childhood diagnosed.
(973) 804-5083 View (973) 804-5083
Photo of Samantha Landwehr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Samantha Landwehr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Life is full of ups and downs and psychotherapy helps you overcome the low points and embrace the high points. To take a deep look into yourself and understand your tendencies, habits, and areas where you can grow and improve. My goal as a therapist is to help facilitate that process and guide you toward a deeper understanding of yourself. By managing your mental health struggles through the development of effective coping skills and improved self-awareness, you can become more mindful of your underlying tendencies.
Life is full of ups and downs and psychotherapy helps you overcome the low points and embrace the high points. To take a deep look into yourself and understand your tendencies, habits, and areas where you can grow and improve. My goal as a therapist is to help facilitate that process and guide you toward a deeper understanding of yourself. By managing your mental health struggles through the development of effective coping skills and improved self-awareness, you can become more mindful of your underlying tendencies.
(862) 666-3316 View (862) 666-3316
Photo of Elisabeth Medino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Elisabeth Medino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a beautiful thing! Throughout life we may experience various challenges, lows, and stressors that negatively impact our mental health. That is part of being human. At times, this can be too difficult to handle on our own. It is helpful to work through these issues with someone who will provide empathy and unconditional support without judgment. As a therapist, I provide a safe, warm and comfortable environment to work together in resolving various issues and life challenges. I believe in meeting the client where they are at, with an emphasis on self-determination.
Therapy is a beautiful thing! Throughout life we may experience various challenges, lows, and stressors that negatively impact our mental health. That is part of being human. At times, this can be too difficult to handle on our own. It is helpful to work through these issues with someone who will provide empathy and unconditional support without judgment. As a therapist, I provide a safe, warm and comfortable environment to work together in resolving various issues and life challenges. I believe in meeting the client where they are at, with an emphasis on self-determination.
(973) 354-8489 View (973) 354-8489
Photo of Danielle Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Danielle Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Do you want something different out of your life but don't know how to go about getting it? Have you been struggling with navigating changes and relationships? Is there a distance between you and your partner and you can't seem to meet in the middle? Does it feel like something holds you back from making connections with people you care about? Make sense of what you are experiencing through therapy so that you can feel confident in making the changes you want. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years experience working with individuals, families and couples.
Do you want something different out of your life but don't know how to go about getting it? Have you been struggling with navigating changes and relationships? Is there a distance between you and your partner and you can't seem to meet in the middle? Does it feel like something holds you back from making connections with people you care about? Make sense of what you are experiencing through therapy so that you can feel confident in making the changes you want. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years experience working with individuals, families and couples.
(908) 386-4194 View (908) 386-4194
Photo of Melissa Tabak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Melissa Tabak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CGIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
“Balance Your Thoughts”. There is no one size fits all type of therapy. Each person is complex. Come on this journey with me to tune into you. Change is a process that is hard to identify, it takes time and effort. That is where I come in to help you along this journey of change and discovery of self. My approach is empathetic, understanding, and judgement free. I primarily utilize a Client Centered Approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). My treatment approach meets the needs of everyone. I have a special interest in the areas of Grief and Loss.
“Balance Your Thoughts”. There is no one size fits all type of therapy. Each person is complex. Come on this journey with me to tune into you. Change is a process that is hard to identify, it takes time and effort. That is where I come in to help you along this journey of change and discovery of self. My approach is empathetic, understanding, and judgement free. I primarily utilize a Client Centered Approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). My treatment approach meets the needs of everyone. I have a special interest in the areas of Grief and Loss.
(973) 847-2067 View (973) 847-2067
Photo of Katherine Weber, Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Katherine Weber
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Do you ever find yourself thinking, isn’t life supposed to be more beautiful than this? Maybe you are navigating a big life transition and feel lost. Does your anger get the best of you and often find you say things you later regret? Does it seem like you have no problem meeting others' needs but fail to be reliable to your own? Or maybe you struggle with low self-esteem preventing you from living life to its fullest? Is it hard to remember the last day you went without an argument with your child? Has lying or behavioral concerns damaged your relationship?
Do you ever find yourself thinking, isn’t life supposed to be more beautiful than this? Maybe you are navigating a big life transition and feel lost. Does your anger get the best of you and often find you say things you later regret? Does it seem like you have no problem meeting others' needs but fail to be reliable to your own? Or maybe you struggle with low self-esteem preventing you from living life to its fullest? Is it hard to remember the last day you went without an argument with your child? Has lying or behavioral concerns damaged your relationship?
(973) 434-5077 View (973) 434-5077
Photo of Mary Beth McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Mary Beth McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, I am well versed in helping individuals who are struggling with a variety of challenges in their life. My experience as a Counselor is also enhanced by my training as an Integral Tai Chi/Qigong Instructor. This enables me to see each individual in a holistic manner. I see the counseling experience as a journey. When you are ready to increase your self-awareness and make changes in your life, I will join you on that journey. My counseling is a person-centered approach, meaning that counseling is about guiding you when you are ready.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, I am well versed in helping individuals who are struggling with a variety of challenges in their life. My experience as a Counselor is also enhanced by my training as an Integral Tai Chi/Qigong Instructor. This enables me to see each individual in a holistic manner. I see the counseling experience as a journey. When you are ready to increase your self-awareness and make changes in your life, I will join you on that journey. My counseling is a person-centered approach, meaning that counseling is about guiding you when you are ready.
(973) 834-7224 View (973) 834-7224
Photo of Milly Balboa-Hart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Milly Balboa-Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
In life there are many stages, changes, and relationships that bring stress and challenges. Seeking psychotherapy is a positive and important step to gaining insight and empower the client to overcome obstacles in life. As a therapist my primary goal is to provide an environment that is safe, promotes trust between therapist and client and most importantly without judgment. I have dedicated my life to help teens, adults, families and couples see their best version of themselves and by doing so, empowering them to move forward in life with acceptance and resilience.
In life there are many stages, changes, and relationships that bring stress and challenges. Seeking psychotherapy is a positive and important step to gaining insight and empower the client to overcome obstacles in life. As a therapist my primary goal is to provide an environment that is safe, promotes trust between therapist and client and most importantly without judgment. I have dedicated my life to help teens, adults, families and couples see their best version of themselves and by doing so, empowering them to move forward in life with acceptance and resilience.
(201) 817-5874 View (201) 817-5874
Photo of Laura M Neuscheler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Laura M Neuscheler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SPS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
My name is Laura Neuscheler. I am a counselor with over 20 years experience working with adolescents & their families. A few years ago I retired from my “day job” as a high school counselor. My practice is dedicated to empowering teens and their families to realize their emotional potential. My treatment method is direct, solution-focused, utilizes humor where appropriate and is always empathic. Adolescence is a difficult time for everyone. Some teens go through this period with barely a problem, others seem to experience great difficulty. Many families at some time during these years need help.
My name is Laura Neuscheler. I am a counselor with over 20 years experience working with adolescents & their families. A few years ago I retired from my “day job” as a high school counselor. My practice is dedicated to empowering teens and their families to realize their emotional potential. My treatment method is direct, solution-focused, utilizes humor where appropriate and is always empathic. Adolescence is a difficult time for everyone. Some teens go through this period with barely a problem, others seem to experience great difficulty. Many families at some time during these years need help.
(201) 285-5905 View (201) 285-5905
Photo of Jessica Nick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Jessica Nick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
People need solutions that work in real life. What I love most about the work I do, is that although I initially see people when they feel challenged or confused, as we work together they find courage, develop new skills, and feel more confident about themselves and in their lives. I have a passion for helping others, and with my insight and creative approach, I am able to help people to make profound, positive life changes. The purpose of my practice is to provide a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for exploration, and reflection.
People need solutions that work in real life. What I love most about the work I do, is that although I initially see people when they feel challenged or confused, as we work together they find courage, develop new skills, and feel more confident about themselves and in their lives. I have a passion for helping others, and with my insight and creative approach, I am able to help people to make profound, positive life changes. The purpose of my practice is to provide a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for exploration, and reflection.
(201) 512-8995 View (201) 512-8995
Photo of Nicole Lawson, Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Nicole Lawson
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
My experience includes working with adolescents and their families in outpatient programs, with a variety of diagnoses, including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, and more.I also have extensive experience in the school system working as a current school counselor. I firsthand understand the struggles students face on a day to day basis.
My experience includes working with adolescents and their families in outpatient programs, with a variety of diagnoses, including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, and more.I also have extensive experience in the school system working as a current school counselor. I firsthand understand the struggles students face on a day to day basis.
(862) 254-8788 View (862) 254-8788
Photo of Rachel DeLade, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Rachel DeLade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Being a therapist is more than just my job, it is my passion. I truly enjoy each of my sessions: working with new clients and clients that I've been with for years. It is an honor to be a small part of your story. Outside of being a dedicated therapist, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two children, and my dog child as well. I love shopping, spending time being crafty, and traveling!
Being a therapist is more than just my job, it is my passion. I truly enjoy each of my sessions: working with new clients and clients that I've been with for years. It is an honor to be a small part of your story. Outside of being a dedicated therapist, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two children, and my dog child as well. I love shopping, spending time being crafty, and traveling!
(862) 212-3978 View (862) 212-3978
Photo of Carol Fishelman-Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Carol Fishelman-Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
As a therapist I feel privileged to be able to provide the kind of support and guidance that helps people build healthy, fulfilling relationships. I derive great satisfaction when I see my clients utilize their strengths and abilities to obtain their own personal objectives and goals. I specialize in support groups: women's issues; emotional eating,weight and body image struggles; grief, bereavement.
As a therapist I feel privileged to be able to provide the kind of support and guidance that helps people build healthy, fulfilling relationships. I derive great satisfaction when I see my clients utilize their strengths and abilities to obtain their own personal objectives and goals. I specialize in support groups: women's issues; emotional eating,weight and body image struggles; grief, bereavement.
(973) 671-8299 View (973) 671-8299
Photo of Beth Fecko Mahler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Beth Fecko Mahler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, FOT
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Trustworthy, competent and consistent therapeutic services offered with an eclectic approach of treatment modalities that will offer support, inquiry, and exploratory relevance to your ongoing mental health needs to process and heal through life transitions, trauma, and grief. A strengths-based approach to developing resiliency, healing, and growth opportunities.
Trustworthy, competent and consistent therapeutic services offered with an eclectic approach of treatment modalities that will offer support, inquiry, and exploratory relevance to your ongoing mental health needs to process and heal through life transitions, trauma, and grief. A strengths-based approach to developing resiliency, healing, and growth opportunities.
(862) 684-4962 View (862) 684-4962
Photo of Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist
NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
(201) 500-3184 View (201) 500-3184
Photo of Frances A Vadas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Frances A Vadas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
Get your life back post-pandemic; it's time to resume your journey. I'm here to help you on your healing path, if you're ready to go. Most insurance plans are accepted.
Get your life back post-pandemic; it's time to resume your journey. I'm here to help you on your healing path, if you're ready to go. Most insurance plans are accepted.
(609) 604-5302 View (609) 604-5302
Photo of Lisa D. Landis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Lisa D. Landis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Welcome to the journey of entering into therapy and creating self growth. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and love the work that I do. I have been told my approach is warm and engaging. Its essential to conduct therapy at a pace that is conducive to where the individual wants to travel in their emotional gains. I use an eclectic approach that incorporates mindfulness with a psychodynamic background.
Welcome to the journey of entering into therapy and creating self growth. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and love the work that I do. I have been told my approach is warm and engaging. Its essential to conduct therapy at a pace that is conducive to where the individual wants to travel in their emotional gains. I use an eclectic approach that incorporates mindfulness with a psychodynamic background.
(201) 819-2113 View (201) 819-2113
Photo of Kristy Centrelli Fernand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Kristy Centrelli Fernand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
Counseling services: We will assess symptoms/behavior & establish treatment goals for reaching an improved quality of life. With over 20 years expertise working with children/teens/adults, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, adhd & eating disorders are just a few of the common presenting concerns that I often treat. I enjoy working with families: women's multiple roles, parenting, behavioral problems, marital strife, physical health concerns & how to find time for one's social/emotional needs. Whether 5 yrs old or 55, let’s improve your coping skills! How can you be there for others if you don’t have an outlet for yourself?
Counseling services: We will assess symptoms/behavior & establish treatment goals for reaching an improved quality of life. With over 20 years expertise working with children/teens/adults, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, adhd & eating disorders are just a few of the common presenting concerns that I often treat. I enjoy working with families: women's multiple roles, parenting, behavioral problems, marital strife, physical health concerns & how to find time for one's social/emotional needs. Whether 5 yrs old or 55, let’s improve your coping skills! How can you be there for others if you don’t have an outlet for yourself?
(201) 383-5716 View (201) 383-5716
Photo of Olga Balakova, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Olga Balakova
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
Living a fulfilling life often requires addressing unspoken traumas, letting go of silent resentments and getting passed the early discomfort of making lifelong changes. My goal is to help adults, couples, and families work through the hurdles of depression, anxiety, codependency, self-esteem issues, and imbalances of power. I have worked for over 10 years with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health issues and especially talented with the full spectrum of addiction (drugs, sex, porn, gambling).... may it be your own, or helping you manage the addiction of someone you love. I use my extensive experience and training to
Living a fulfilling life often requires addressing unspoken traumas, letting go of silent resentments and getting passed the early discomfort of making lifelong changes. My goal is to help adults, couples, and families work through the hurdles of depression, anxiety, codependency, self-esteem issues, and imbalances of power. I have worked for over 10 years with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health issues and especially talented with the full spectrum of addiction (drugs, sex, porn, gambling).... may it be your own, or helping you manage the addiction of someone you love. I use my extensive experience and training to
(862) 378-3393 View (862) 378-3393
Photo of Dorrie Torp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Dorrie Torp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to go from here? You’ve taken the first step by seeking out the person who best fits your needs in your journey of self-discovery. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to go from here? You’ve taken the first step by seeking out the person who best fits your needs in your journey of self-discovery. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(862) 292-4468 View (862) 292-4468

See more therapy options for Pompton Lakes

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pompton Lakes, NJ

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Pompton Lakes, NJ who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
86% Depression
83% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
76% Coping Skills
62% Family Conflict
62% Peer Relationships

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth
64% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Pompton Lakes, NJ see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pompton Lakes?

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.