Therapists in Schaumburg, IL

Photo of Sherin Joseph, Marriage & Family Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Sherin Joseph
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBBS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Waitlist for new clients
I believe we all have the innate ability to cope and adapt and I also recognize that these coping behaviors and adaptations can sometimes stop serving us in the way they once did. My aim is to better understand your unique context to help you deepen your self-awareness, develop self-acceptance and discover, together, your path toward the outcomes you are seeking. I believe each person’s story is sacred and that lasting change happens within the context of relationship. I seek to create a person-centered environment where people feel comfortable to heal or grow at their pace in the way that fits their specific needs.
I believe we all have the innate ability to cope and adapt and I also recognize that these coping behaviors and adaptations can sometimes stop serving us in the way they once did. My aim is to better understand your unique context to help you deepen your self-awareness, develop self-acceptance and discover, together, your path toward the outcomes you are seeking. I believe each person’s story is sacred and that lasting change happens within the context of relationship. I seek to create a person-centered environment where people feel comfortable to heal or grow at their pace in the way that fits their specific needs.
(847) 512-3773 View (847) 512-3773
Photo of Kelsey Johnson, Licensed Social Worker in Schaumburg, IL
Kelsey Johnson
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60193
I enjoy working with kids, teens and young adults, and it is my mission to empower all my clients to express themselves emotionally in a non-judgmental environment. As a clinician I encourage all my clients to be honest and vulnerable by helping them build their confidence and increase their self-awareness. Together, we will achieve these goals and more by utilizing a range of different therapeutic modalities, that includes CBT, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, DBT, and solution focused therapy. Play therapy techniques are also used for those of my younger clients.
I enjoy working with kids, teens and young adults, and it is my mission to empower all my clients to express themselves emotionally in a non-judgmental environment. As a clinician I encourage all my clients to be honest and vulnerable by helping them build their confidence and increase their self-awareness. Together, we will achieve these goals and more by utilizing a range of different therapeutic modalities, that includes CBT, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, DBT, and solution focused therapy. Play therapy techniques are also used for those of my younger clients.
(847) 512-7464 View (847) 512-7464
Photo of Sukhee Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Sukhee Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Sukhee (She, her, hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). She provides therapy to individuals ages 18+ to help them grow from a variety of life challenges; stress, major life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, women’s issues, addiction, and other general adjustment issues. She is a bilingual therapist, providing counseling services in both English and Korean.
Sukhee (She, her, hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). She provides therapy to individuals ages 18+ to help them grow from a variety of life challenges; stress, major life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, women’s issues, addiction, and other general adjustment issues. She is a bilingual therapist, providing counseling services in both English and Korean.
(847) 380-8776 View (847) 380-8776
Photo of Toyah T Wilson, Psychologist in Schaumburg, IL
Toyah T Wilson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Have life changes overwhelmed you, leaving you feeling lost and confused? Are you a new mother struggling to adjust? Do you feel past experiences negatively impact your current relationships? Feeling as if nothing you do is ever good enough? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help you. I strongly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to discover their voice and be heard. Therapy provides a unique opportunity to express yourself in a safe environment. Through our relationship you can begin to discover new skills, strengths, and a healthy self esteem to address your concerns.
Have life changes overwhelmed you, leaving you feeling lost and confused? Are you a new mother struggling to adjust? Do you feel past experiences negatively impact your current relationships? Feeling as if nothing you do is ever good enough? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help you. I strongly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to discover their voice and be heard. Therapy provides a unique opportunity to express yourself in a safe environment. Through our relationship you can begin to discover new skills, strengths, and a healthy self esteem to address your concerns.
(331) 244-0286 View (331) 244-0286
Counseling & Diagnostic Center of Woodfield, Ltd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
The Counseling and Diagnostic Center of Woodfield is a counseling and psychotherapy clinic commited to improving the behavioral health of its clients, as well as the quality of their social and emotional lives. We have specialists available for counseling clients of all ages: children, adolescents and adults. The experienced and dedicated clinicians of CDCW provide a wide range of theapeutic and diagnostic services designed to meet the particular needs of their clients. We provide an extensive range of treatment and assessment services provided by specialists in each respective area.
The Counseling and Diagnostic Center of Woodfield is a counseling and psychotherapy clinic commited to improving the behavioral health of its clients, as well as the quality of their social and emotional lives. We have specialists available for counseling clients of all ages: children, adolescents and adults. The experienced and dedicated clinicians of CDCW provide a wide range of theapeutic and diagnostic services designed to meet the particular needs of their clients. We provide an extensive range of treatment and assessment services provided by specialists in each respective area.
(847) 416-2210 View (847) 416-2210
Photo of Kanesha Walker Amaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaumburg, IL
Kanesha Walker Amaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60193
As individuals we are constantly creating ourselves and evolving through time. Our stories and life experiences all differ in some capacity, and I truly believe that understanding our values and beliefs stem from our own narratives and perception. As a therapist, I aim to collaborate with clients and assist with driving a healthy narrative, relying on their own skills and strengths. I believe in providing a healthy, non-blaming, safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings and encourage personal growth.
As individuals we are constantly creating ourselves and evolving through time. Our stories and life experiences all differ in some capacity, and I truly believe that understanding our values and beliefs stem from our own narratives and perception. As a therapist, I aim to collaborate with clients and assist with driving a healthy narrative, relying on their own skills and strengths. I believe in providing a healthy, non-blaming, safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings and encourage personal growth.
(847) 474-9735 View (847) 474-9735
Photo of Lauren Rzepka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Lauren Rzepka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Gaining insight and a deeper understanding of yourself improves your relationships and your quality of life. I help clients cope with life's stressors and attain their personal goals. I enable clients to achieve balance, emotional health, mental stability, and healthy relationships. My practice of therapy is collaborative, as I believe that clients are the experts on their own lives. I offer an inclusive and safe place for personal exploration. By creating a supportive and empathic environment I enable clients to grow, gain insight, and create meaningful change in their lives.
Gaining insight and a deeper understanding of yourself improves your relationships and your quality of life. I help clients cope with life's stressors and attain their personal goals. I enable clients to achieve balance, emotional health, mental stability, and healthy relationships. My practice of therapy is collaborative, as I believe that clients are the experts on their own lives. I offer an inclusive and safe place for personal exploration. By creating a supportive and empathic environment I enable clients to grow, gain insight, and create meaningful change in their lives.
(872) 204-0506 View (872) 204-0506
Photo of Timothy Heiney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Timothy Heiney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in offering client centered therapy for a variety of issues including anger management, depression, anxiety, and PTSD and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy. I offer evening appointments in person or virtually.
I am experienced in offering client centered therapy for a variety of issues including anger management, depression, anxiety, and PTSD and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy. I offer evening appointments in person or virtually.
(847) 305-1364 View (847) 305-1364
Photo of A + Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
A + Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Welcome to A+ Wellness, the sanctuary where healing begins, and wellness thrives. Founded by dedicated therapists Monica Bhatia and Melissa Hemzacek, the two foster a culture of compassion, empowerment, and understanding. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment where clients are encouraged to explore their potential and discover the strength within.
Welcome to A+ Wellness, the sanctuary where healing begins, and wellness thrives. Founded by dedicated therapists Monica Bhatia and Melissa Hemzacek, the two foster a culture of compassion, empowerment, and understanding. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment where clients are encouraged to explore their potential and discover the strength within.
(847) 892-1518 View (847) 892-1518
Photo of Brandy Kenworthy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Brandy Kenworthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
You deserve a life that is worthy of you! And I'm glad you're here and ready to begin your journey of healing and growth. As your therapist, I will offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your concerns, experiences, hopes, fears and goals. I have an empathetic and interactive approach that highlights the importance of the therapeutic relationship in facilitating personal growth through self understanding. I have a supportive and goal oriented style in which I utilize psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness orientations to help you decrease your negative feelings and improve your functioning and well-being.
You deserve a life that is worthy of you! And I'm glad you're here and ready to begin your journey of healing and growth. As your therapist, I will offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your concerns, experiences, hopes, fears and goals. I have an empathetic and interactive approach that highlights the importance of the therapeutic relationship in facilitating personal growth through self understanding. I have a supportive and goal oriented style in which I utilize psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness orientations to help you decrease your negative feelings and improve your functioning and well-being.
(773) 672-3323 View (773) 672-3323
Photo of Andi Dosti, Pre-Licensed Professional in Schaumburg, IL
Andi Dosti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHP
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I am currently earning a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health at Northeastern Illinois University, with a focus on individual therapy, couples, and family systems. With a collaborative approach to therapy, believing that clients can and should co-create their own healing. I understand that creating a safe space for healing begins from the very first conversation with new clients.
I am currently earning a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health at Northeastern Illinois University, with a focus on individual therapy, couples, and family systems. With a collaborative approach to therapy, believing that clients can and should co-create their own healing. I understand that creating a safe space for healing begins from the very first conversation with new clients.
(708) 773-6685 View (708) 773-6685
Photo of Michelle Reynolds, Counselor in Schaumburg, IL
Michelle Reynolds
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60193
I am passionate about working with individuals on illness education, symptom management, cognitive restructuring, affect regulation, behavior modification, and interpersonal skill development. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn about themselves, begin to love who they are, and overcome social, emotional, economical, and vocational struggles while reaching their full potential in life. I want to help those who feel unloved and broken return to feeling whole again with active encouragement and support.
I am passionate about working with individuals on illness education, symptom management, cognitive restructuring, affect regulation, behavior modification, and interpersonal skill development. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn about themselves, begin to love who they are, and overcome social, emotional, economical, and vocational struggles while reaching their full potential in life. I want to help those who feel unloved and broken return to feeling whole again with active encouragement and support.
(847) 807-1931 View (847) 807-1931
Photo of John Benton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
John Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I have a passion for helping others. I have been successfully treating Borderline Personality Disorder as well as most anxiety, depressive, and psychotic disorders. All of these disorders are treatable. Treating BPD is my specialty, having 17 years experience reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life for my clients in both individual and group settings. I have taught the group using the BPD workbook for all of those years and have seen people make tremendous growth in understanding and controlling their emotions. Many eventually graduate from the program and need no further treatment.
I have a passion for helping others. I have been successfully treating Borderline Personality Disorder as well as most anxiety, depressive, and psychotic disorders. All of these disorders are treatable. Treating BPD is my specialty, having 17 years experience reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life for my clients in both individual and group settings. I have taught the group using the BPD workbook for all of those years and have seen people make tremendous growth in understanding and controlling their emotions. Many eventually graduate from the program and need no further treatment.
(847) 973-7363 View (847) 973-7363
Photo of Janet A Sullivan, Counselor in Schaumburg, IL
Janet A Sullivan
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Are you struggling with balancing priorities and demands, overwhelming stress, or adjusting to a transition or major life event? Feeling burned-out? Can't seem to get motivated, feel stuck or even hopeless? Let me help you gain new perspectives on your life. I am an interactive, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapist. Preparing you with the skills and knowledge you need to enjoy your relationships and restore balance in your life are goals I can help you achieve. Please call me for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Are you struggling with balancing priorities and demands, overwhelming stress, or adjusting to a transition or major life event? Feeling burned-out? Can't seem to get motivated, feel stuck or even hopeless? Let me help you gain new perspectives on your life. I am an interactive, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapist. Preparing you with the skills and knowledge you need to enjoy your relationships and restore balance in your life are goals I can help you achieve. Please call me for more information or to schedule an appointment.
(847) 807-1997 View (847) 807-1997
Photo of Mark Vogel, Psychologist in Schaumburg, IL
Mark Vogel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I've worked in the mental health field since 1980. I look at therapy as a collaborative enterprise between client and therapist, with the aim of improving quality of life. I value a gentle, accepting way of looking at life problems, with an emphasis on understanding, rather than judging or condemning, oneself and others. I value curiosity as a valuable asset in the therapeutic process and I enjoy working with clients who can be curious about themselves and their lives. I work with the client to identify new skills, behaviors, or attitudes that can facilitate desired changes.
I've worked in the mental health field since 1980. I look at therapy as a collaborative enterprise between client and therapist, with the aim of improving quality of life. I value a gentle, accepting way of looking at life problems, with an emphasis on understanding, rather than judging or condemning, oneself and others. I value curiosity as a valuable asset in the therapeutic process and I enjoy working with clients who can be curious about themselves and their lives. I work with the client to identify new skills, behaviors, or attitudes that can facilitate desired changes.
(847) 512-8698 x318 View (847) 512-8698 x318
Photo of Erin Bracken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Erin Bracken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60193
Not accepting new clients
Reaching out for help through counseling can be difficult so please recognize that by doing so you are already taking an important step. It is my hope that I can provide the support that you need during the challenges you are dealing with currently. It is important to me to meet you where you are at in your journey and help you identify, explore, and problem-solve what you need right now and also in the long term. After hearing what you want to work on, I’ll help you set reasonable and attainable goals.
Reaching out for help through counseling can be difficult so please recognize that by doing so you are already taking an important step. It is my hope that I can provide the support that you need during the challenges you are dealing with currently. It is important to me to meet you where you are at in your journey and help you identify, explore, and problem-solve what you need right now and also in the long term. After hearing what you want to work on, I’ll help you set reasonable and attainable goals.
(847) 447-2572 View (847) 447-2572
Photo of Lauren Dineen-Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaumburg, IL
Lauren Dineen-Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173  (Online Only)
Taking the first step to improve your life can feel difficult and daunting, especially when you live with anxiety and fear. But I believe that every single person has the strength and capability to create positive changes in their life. I strive to provide a caring and open space for my clients, so they can begin to break down the barriers they face on the path to achieving their goals. With extensive experience in the field providing treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD, I work to provide supportive and understanding therapy to meet each client's individual needs.
Taking the first step to improve your life can feel difficult and daunting, especially when you live with anxiety and fear. But I believe that every single person has the strength and capability to create positive changes in their life. I strive to provide a caring and open space for my clients, so they can begin to break down the barriers they face on the path to achieving their goals. With extensive experience in the field providing treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD, I work to provide supportive and understanding therapy to meet each client's individual needs.
(847) 250-4403 View (847) 250-4403
Photo of Terry Neary, Psychologist in Schaumburg, IL
Terry Neary
Psychologist, PhD, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
CONNECTING. I try to build a connection with people that helps develop understanding, support, & solutions. I strive to give clients the combination of both caring & competence.
CONNECTING. I try to build a connection with people that helps develop understanding, support, & solutions. I strive to give clients the combination of both caring & competence.
(847) 416-6835 View (847) 416-6835
Photo of Fawn Cooney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaumburg, IL
Fawn Cooney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Getting help can be a challenge for anyone. I put efforts towards making all of my clients feel comfortable in any way I can by providing unlimited support, empathy, a nonjudgmental stance, reliability and confidentiality. I really enjoy building a rapport with my clients and providing them with a safe space. I strongly believe in goal setting and checking in on one's progress. I create a treatment plan with clients that has attainable goals and reassess if needed. I am compassionate about all of my clients improving in their lives and provide support and encouragement throughout treatment.
Getting help can be a challenge for anyone. I put efforts towards making all of my clients feel comfortable in any way I can by providing unlimited support, empathy, a nonjudgmental stance, reliability and confidentiality. I really enjoy building a rapport with my clients and providing them with a safe space. I strongly believe in goal setting and checking in on one's progress. I create a treatment plan with clients that has attainable goals and reassess if needed. I am compassionate about all of my clients improving in their lives and provide support and encouragement throughout treatment.
(630) 528-2101 View (630) 528-2101
Photo of Awakenings Counseling Center - Amanda LWK, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaumburg, IL
Awakenings Counseling Center - Amanda LWK
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, ICDVP
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60193
I want to take a second to acknowledge how brave you are for seeking therapy. If you are reading this, I hope you feel encouraged by your decision to receive support and grow as a person. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and experiences to a stranger! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a BSc (Hons) in Psychological Studies in Singapore. I also have an MA in Mental Health Counseling at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) in Deerfield, Illinois. Additionally, I am a certified Illinois Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).
I want to take a second to acknowledge how brave you are for seeking therapy. If you are reading this, I hope you feel encouraged by your decision to receive support and grow as a person. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and experiences to a stranger! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a BSc (Hons) in Psychological Studies in Singapore. I also have an MA in Mental Health Counseling at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) in Deerfield, Illinois. Additionally, I am a certified Illinois Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).
(847) 750-5910 View (847) 750-5910

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Schaumburg, IL

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Schaumburg, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
77% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Schaumburg, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Schaumburg?

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.