Therapists in Meridian, ID

Photo of Renee Johanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Renee Johanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
Losing sight of who we want to be in an increasingly complicated world can seem easy when life feels hard, and asking for help is an act of courage when we're struggling. I'd like to help you face your challenges. I work with teens ages 15+, adults, and couples. My approach to therapy is collaborative and includes treating all clients with respect and compassion and exploring what matters most to you. If you feel lost or stuck in life, it may be that you've lost sight of what is important to you. Together, we can reconnect you with what and who matters most in life to help you find direction, balance, healing, and to create meaning.
Losing sight of who we want to be in an increasingly complicated world can seem easy when life feels hard, and asking for help is an act of courage when we're struggling. I'd like to help you face your challenges. I work with teens ages 15+, adults, and couples. My approach to therapy is collaborative and includes treating all clients with respect and compassion and exploring what matters most to you. If you feel lost or stuck in life, it may be that you've lost sight of what is important to you. Together, we can reconnect you with what and who matters most in life to help you find direction, balance, healing, and to create meaning.
(208) 213-2524 View (208) 213-2524
Photo of Dorinda (Dori) S Walden, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Dorinda (Dori) S Walden
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I am accepting new clients! I have been working with Children, Adolescents, and Adults for 30 years who have anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, and behavioral issues. Educating parents about how to better cope and care for their children makes a dramatic positive effect on the entire family.
I am accepting new clients! I have been working with Children, Adolescents, and Adults for 30 years who have anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, and behavioral issues. Educating parents about how to better cope and care for their children makes a dramatic positive effect on the entire family.
(208) 899-8122 View (208) 899-8122
Photo of Chris J Graham, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Chris J Graham
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
My goal is to help you to look at your life from a new perspective and establish different personal responses that may lead to new and more effective solutions. I view my time with you as an opportunity to come alongside you. It is helpful for me to get to know how you think, how you react in times of stress, how your family history influences your life and how social interactions shape the way you view yourself and others. Clients who desire to change, set goals, and work to achieve them have an opportunity for a positive outcome.
My goal is to help you to look at your life from a new perspective and establish different personal responses that may lead to new and more effective solutions. I view my time with you as an opportunity to come alongside you. It is helpful for me to get to know how you think, how you react in times of stress, how your family history influences your life and how social interactions shape the way you view yourself and others. Clients who desire to change, set goals, and work to achieve them have an opportunity for a positive outcome.
(208) 310-7769 View (208) 310-7769
Photo of Stephen Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Stephen Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. I currently offer therapy via in person therapy, online therapy, and phone therapy. I assist those struggling with issues including; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent-child and sibling relationships, marriage distress, addictions, religious oppression, religious issues and conflict, emotional disturbances, adverse life experiences, ADHD, OCD, and more... Experience with with others with grief and loss with family members and friends.
I am accepting new clients. I currently offer therapy via in person therapy, online therapy, and phone therapy. I assist those struggling with issues including; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent-child and sibling relationships, marriage distress, addictions, religious oppression, religious issues and conflict, emotional disturbances, adverse life experiences, ADHD, OCD, and more... Experience with with others with grief and loss with family members and friends.
(208) 213-7278 View (208) 213-7278
Photo of Joy Kaplan-Rood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Joy Kaplan-Rood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I hold a master degree in Clinical Counseling. I also have training within the area of: Play Therapy Strategies and Techniques in working with children. I use a variety of play therapy interventions and differing theoretical orientations in my approach to helping clients. I predominantly work with children and adolescence of all ages, and also have experience in working with couples and families.
I hold a master degree in Clinical Counseling. I also have training within the area of: Play Therapy Strategies and Techniques in working with children. I use a variety of play therapy interventions and differing theoretical orientations in my approach to helping clients. I predominantly work with children and adolescence of all ages, and also have experience in working with couples and families.
(208) 357-9385 View (208) 357-9385
Photo of Jared L. Bryson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Jared L. Bryson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
Telehealh ONLY. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Idaho w/ over 18 years of experience working w/ children, adolescents, adults, couples, & families seeking support with an array of personal and/ or relationship challenges. I have specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for helping clients resolve trauma. I take a strength-based approach in teaching (DBT) mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional awareness-building, & relationship effectiveness training. I also use cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, & emotionally-focused approaches to help clients find their version of change.
Telehealh ONLY. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Idaho w/ over 18 years of experience working w/ children, adolescents, adults, couples, & families seeking support with an array of personal and/ or relationship challenges. I have specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for helping clients resolve trauma. I take a strength-based approach in teaching (DBT) mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional awareness-building, & relationship effectiveness training. I also use cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, & emotionally-focused approaches to help clients find their version of change.
(208) 549-5591 View (208) 549-5591
Photo of Kristin Overton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Kristin Overton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I believe that every individual has been created with intrinsic value and unique purpose. We were meant to live whole, integrated, and connected lives that flourish. But painful or traumatic life experiences can diminish us over time, pulling us away from who we were created to be, often wreaking havoc with our minds, bodies, emotions, and relationships in the process. If you are weary of merely surviving and desire to truly thrive, I want to remind you that you are not alone and that there is hope. There is a path that has led to the place you are now, and there is a different path forward that leads to healing and wholeness.
I believe that every individual has been created with intrinsic value and unique purpose. We were meant to live whole, integrated, and connected lives that flourish. But painful or traumatic life experiences can diminish us over time, pulling us away from who we were created to be, often wreaking havoc with our minds, bodies, emotions, and relationships in the process. If you are weary of merely surviving and desire to truly thrive, I want to remind you that you are not alone and that there is hope. There is a path that has led to the place you are now, and there is a different path forward that leads to healing and wholeness.
(208) 408-1304 View (208) 408-1304
Photo of Melissa Burnett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Meridian, ID
Melissa Burnett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
I understand that navigating relationships can be challenging and overwhelming, and I am committed to helping my clients find healing and develop healthier patterns of interaction. My approach to therapy is informed by a combination of Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I believe that every individual has a unique story and that therapy can help them identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
I understand that navigating relationships can be challenging and overwhelming, and I am committed to helping my clients find healing and develop healthier patterns of interaction. My approach to therapy is informed by a combination of Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I believe that every individual has a unique story and that therapy can help them identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior.
(208) 295-9405 View (208) 295-9405
Photo of Andrew Sheffield, LPC Intern in Meridian, ID
Andrew Sheffield
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
I want to help those that may otherwise not receive the help and support they need. We all go through difficult periods in life, and having the right support is essential in taking care of oneself. I’m here to help individuals address past traumas, daily mental health symptoms, suicidal ideations, or day to day stresses. I spent nearly 8 years with the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline. I believe Suicide is preventable and therapy plays a role it the prevention process.
I want to help those that may otherwise not receive the help and support they need. We all go through difficult periods in life, and having the right support is essential in taking care of oneself. I’m here to help individuals address past traumas, daily mental health symptoms, suicidal ideations, or day to day stresses. I spent nearly 8 years with the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline. I believe Suicide is preventable and therapy plays a role it the prevention process.
(208) 537-2177 View (208) 537-2177
Photo of Melissa Funston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Melissa Funston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS Ed
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I am a cat-loving, loud laughing, and authentic, Licensed Professional Counselor who is ready to meet you wherever you are on your journey of life. I strive to provide a comfortable and safe space to focus on the strengths and needs of every person who comes into my office. As humans, we all deal with different barriers or issues that can create a level of stagnancy in our lives. I am here to help you identify and remove those barriers to help your life flow again. I work with a number of different populations, but I have direct expertise working with adults and teens.
I am a cat-loving, loud laughing, and authentic, Licensed Professional Counselor who is ready to meet you wherever you are on your journey of life. I strive to provide a comfortable and safe space to focus on the strengths and needs of every person who comes into my office. As humans, we all deal with different barriers or issues that can create a level of stagnancy in our lives. I am here to help you identify and remove those barriers to help your life flow again. I work with a number of different populations, but I have direct expertise working with adults and teens.
(208) 510-0829 View (208) 510-0829
Photo of Diana Conwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Diana Conwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Do you "just need to talk to someone" to help sort out parts of your life, relationship, family, or career? Is your most important relationship suffering and nothing else feels right despite all your best efforts? It’s easy to get stuck in emotions and hard to figure things out on your own (or together) at times. I help adults, couples, and families find their way through the stressors and challenges of life and relationships to achieve greater connection, balance, satisfaction, and love. I offer a different approach as a licensed therapist and master's level coach to equip you with usable tools for real help with real results.
Do you "just need to talk to someone" to help sort out parts of your life, relationship, family, or career? Is your most important relationship suffering and nothing else feels right despite all your best efforts? It’s easy to get stuck in emotions and hard to figure things out on your own (or together) at times. I help adults, couples, and families find their way through the stressors and challenges of life and relationships to achieve greater connection, balance, satisfaction, and love. I offer a different approach as a licensed therapist and master's level coach to equip you with usable tools for real help with real results.
(208) 745-3047 View (208) 745-3047
Photo of Angel Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Angel Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I see you. The past isn't all you hoped it would be. The future feels like a creaky bridge across a canyon. Presently; you're not entirely sure how to take your next steps or where those steps will lead you. It can be confusing, overwhelming and maybe even unbearable. So here you are. You're looking for answers. You're looking for something to help with "all of this."
I see you. The past isn't all you hoped it would be. The future feels like a creaky bridge across a canyon. Presently; you're not entirely sure how to take your next steps or where those steps will lead you. It can be confusing, overwhelming and maybe even unbearable. So here you are. You're looking for answers. You're looking for something to help with "all of this."
(208) 428-5434 View (208) 428-5434
Photo of Wendy Wikstrom (Formerly Snodgrass), Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Wendy Wikstrom (Formerly Snodgrass)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
At some point, people face barriers between how they are perceived and who they want to be. And at some point life can hit us with random or chronic disruptions. Whether or not your mental health warrants a diagnosis, a core component to counseling is to identify and treat the imbalance in wellness. This includes identifying internal and external issues. Counseling may be the right resource if you are feeling unhappy, scared, lonely, frustrated, confused, overwhelmed...or any combination of emotions. Counseling may also be needed if your behavior is negatively impacting your wellness and relationships with others.
At some point, people face barriers between how they are perceived and who they want to be. And at some point life can hit us with random or chronic disruptions. Whether or not your mental health warrants a diagnosis, a core component to counseling is to identify and treat the imbalance in wellness. This includes identifying internal and external issues. Counseling may be the right resource if you are feeling unhappy, scared, lonely, frustrated, confused, overwhelmed...or any combination of emotions. Counseling may also be needed if your behavior is negatively impacting your wellness and relationships with others.
(208) 487-8699 View (208) 487-8699
Photo of Tanya M Goodrich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Tanya M Goodrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
As a practicing therapist for over 23 years, I have had the privilege of working collaboratively with my clients to assist them in finding solutions to their problems and learning how to live life more authentically and with greater joy. Whatever your circumstance, if you're struggling to make changes, therapy and developing greater insight, may be just the help you need to make the changes you want.
As a practicing therapist for over 23 years, I have had the privilege of working collaboratively with my clients to assist them in finding solutions to their problems and learning how to live life more authentically and with greater joy. Whatever your circumstance, if you're struggling to make changes, therapy and developing greater insight, may be just the help you need to make the changes you want.
(208) 925-1419 View (208) 925-1419
Photo of Rebecca Ann Ahern, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Rebecca Ann Ahern
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
For some seeing a counselor might seem intimidating, but in reality, it's an opportunity to be able to be your true self, in a safe space, with no judgment. I use the counseling technique that best suits each client. Many stuggle, for example, with anxiety, depression, grief, stress or past trauma. It is possible to feel better.
For some seeing a counselor might seem intimidating, but in reality, it's an opportunity to be able to be your true self, in a safe space, with no judgment. I use the counseling technique that best suits each client. Many stuggle, for example, with anxiety, depression, grief, stress or past trauma. It is possible to feel better.
(208) 295-0142 View (208) 295-0142
Photo of Brionne P. Chamberlain, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Meridian, ID
Brionne P. Chamberlain
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
I believe relationships have the potential to enhance your capacity to cope with life's challenges, heal from past hurts, & find wellness & satisfaction. When relationships are strained, however, the strain can erode your natural, resilient abilities. I specialize in helping couples, families, & individuals to access inherent healing resources & to work through patterns of behavior & thinking that have them stuck. I collaborate with my clients to develop effective communication & conflict resolution skills, create healthy boundaries, & to experience restorative emotional experiences with their significant others.
I believe relationships have the potential to enhance your capacity to cope with life's challenges, heal from past hurts, & find wellness & satisfaction. When relationships are strained, however, the strain can erode your natural, resilient abilities. I specialize in helping couples, families, & individuals to access inherent healing resources & to work through patterns of behavior & thinking that have them stuck. I collaborate with my clients to develop effective communication & conflict resolution skills, create healthy boundaries, & to experience restorative emotional experiences with their significant others.
(208) 741-6484 View (208) 741-6484
Photo of Jaclyn Hardy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Jaclyn Hardy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Waitlist for new clients
Individuals, couples, and families experience trauma, stressors, and circumstances outside their control throughout life. Such times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves and others. We are relational beings, wired for connection, yet sometimes we get caught in negative interaction cycles, often driven by the same unmet needs. I help couples uncover those underlying unmet needs, emotions, and perceptions and then facilitate a pattern of turning toward each other rather than away.
Individuals, couples, and families experience trauma, stressors, and circumstances outside their control throughout life. Such times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves and others. We are relational beings, wired for connection, yet sometimes we get caught in negative interaction cycles, often driven by the same unmet needs. I help couples uncover those underlying unmet needs, emotions, and perceptions and then facilitate a pattern of turning toward each other rather than away.
(208) 795-3327 View (208) 795-3327
Photo of Dr. Doug Craig, Psychologist in Meridian, ID
Dr. Doug Craig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I appreciate that when you look for a therapist, you want someone who will listen to you and provide some direction as well. I would like to help you get back to having more peace of mind and better focus, sleep, and motivation. My clients appreciate the fact that I really listen to them. And I listen to you carefully, because your quality of life matters. My specialty is helping people manage their anxiety; whether it's worry, OCD, panic attacks, or social anxiety. I use both cognitive-behavioral therapy and self-compassion training which are proven methods for helping people who struggle with anxiety and other problems.
I appreciate that when you look for a therapist, you want someone who will listen to you and provide some direction as well. I would like to help you get back to having more peace of mind and better focus, sleep, and motivation. My clients appreciate the fact that I really listen to them. And I listen to you carefully, because your quality of life matters. My specialty is helping people manage their anxiety; whether it's worry, OCD, panic attacks, or social anxiety. I use both cognitive-behavioral therapy and self-compassion training which are proven methods for helping people who struggle with anxiety and other problems.
(208) 325-5770 View (208) 325-5770
Photo of Malisa Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Malisa Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMSP
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I work with children of all ages, teenagers, families, couples, women, groups & individuals. Are you seeking the ability to thrive & live the life you desire? In session you will learn how to recognize your true identity, full potential, release trauma & gain the freedom to form new healthy patterns. We will develop a trusting therapeutic relationship so you & I can form goals & enable positive change. We will focus on your strengths so you can thrive & have hope. Do you want to see your concerns melt away and gain the ability to make new healthy patterns? We will work on all this in a relaxed session.
I work with children of all ages, teenagers, families, couples, women, groups & individuals. Are you seeking the ability to thrive & live the life you desire? In session you will learn how to recognize your true identity, full potential, release trauma & gain the freedom to form new healthy patterns. We will develop a trusting therapeutic relationship so you & I can form goals & enable positive change. We will focus on your strengths so you can thrive & have hope. Do you want to see your concerns melt away and gain the ability to make new healthy patterns? We will work on all this in a relaxed session.
(208) 231-7273 View (208) 231-7273
Photo of Jennifer Seegmiller, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Meridian, ID
Jennifer Seegmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
My passion is finding an approach that fits the needs for each client while creating a safe/calming environment that fosters a positive therapeutic relationship and promotes growth. I believe the relationship between therapist and client is collaborative and important. My goal is to assist and empower you on your life's journey. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds. I have experience working with a variety of clients each with their own life story, with the common goal of becoming a stronger version of who they are.
My passion is finding an approach that fits the needs for each client while creating a safe/calming environment that fosters a positive therapeutic relationship and promotes growth. I believe the relationship between therapist and client is collaborative and important. My goal is to assist and empower you on your life's journey. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds. I have experience working with a variety of clients each with their own life story, with the common goal of becoming a stronger version of who they are.
(208) 537-2145 View (208) 537-2145

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Meridian, ID

500+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Meridian, ID who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
77% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
70% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Blue Cross
69% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Regence

How Therapists in Meridian, ID see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Meridian?

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.