Therapists in Victoria, MN

Photo of OCD Associates, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(646) 437-8902 View (646) 437-8902
Photo of Deborah K Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Deborah K Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, MN 55386
At times you may not know where to turn or what to do to make things better. If you could use some support, I'd like to help. My office provides a comfortable atmosphere where I am non-judgmental in my approach. My mission is to help improve my clients' lives by focusing on their strengths to create a healthy difference that is long lasting.
At times you may not know where to turn or what to do to make things better. If you could use some support, I'd like to help. My office provides a comfortable atmosphere where I am non-judgmental in my approach. My mission is to help improve my clients' lives by focusing on their strengths to create a healthy difference that is long lasting.
(952) 855-8801 View (952) 855-8801
Photo of Casandra (Casi) Leighton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Casandra (Casi) Leighton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in evidence-based treatments for Anxiety and OCD-related disorders including: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, Hair pulling (Trichotillomania), Skin Picking (Excoriation), other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, and life changes. All clients that work with me will leave with new knowledge, skills, and tools to address their unique goals and challenges.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in evidence-based treatments for Anxiety and OCD-related disorders including: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, Hair pulling (Trichotillomania), Skin Picking (Excoriation), other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, and life changes. All clients that work with me will leave with new knowledge, skills, and tools to address their unique goals and challenges.
(952) 900-5331 View (952) 900-5331
Photo of Victoria Mental Health Services, Ltd. , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Victoria Mental Health Services, Ltd.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I am a Master's Level Clinician with more than 20 years experience in Mental Health. I enjoy working with a variety of clients. I particularly enjoy providing services for: Children & Teens, Parenting Issues, Couples/Martial Therapy & processing trauma for clients. I am an EMDRIA certified clinician for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.) I am also a Certified ART - Accelerated Resolution Therapy clinician. If you are wanting more information re: the types of services which I provide, feel free to view my website: www.victoriamentalhealth.com in the Twin Cities area. Thank you for learning more about my services.
I am a Master's Level Clinician with more than 20 years experience in Mental Health. I enjoy working with a variety of clients. I particularly enjoy providing services for: Children & Teens, Parenting Issues, Couples/Martial Therapy & processing trauma for clients. I am an EMDRIA certified clinician for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.) I am also a Certified ART - Accelerated Resolution Therapy clinician. If you are wanting more information re: the types of services which I provide, feel free to view my website: www.victoriamentalhealth.com in the Twin Cities area. Thank you for learning more about my services.
(952) 236-4876 View (952) 236-4876
Photo of Lynn Harris Luetgers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Lynn Harris Luetgers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, MN 55386
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have a short wait list for new clients. I am a fully trained and CERTIFIED EMDR THERAPIST. EMDR is effective in reducing anxiety and reactivity to emotional triggers often caused by painful memories. EMDR speeds up processing of distressing experiences and memories by accessing the emotional and intellectual parts of our brain. Most clients report positive changes quicker in comparison to traditional talk therapy. Together we'll tailor a treatment plan and healthy strategies to meet your goals. Call for a complimentary 15 minute consultation to see if we'd be a good fit in working together.
I currently have a short wait list for new clients. I am a fully trained and CERTIFIED EMDR THERAPIST. EMDR is effective in reducing anxiety and reactivity to emotional triggers often caused by painful memories. EMDR speeds up processing of distressing experiences and memories by accessing the emotional and intellectual parts of our brain. Most clients report positive changes quicker in comparison to traditional talk therapy. Together we'll tailor a treatment plan and healthy strategies to meet your goals. Call for a complimentary 15 minute consultation to see if we'd be a good fit in working together.
(952) 522-4451 View (952) 522-4451
Photo of Gary J Freitas, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Gary J Freitas
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park. I provide individual therapy for adults and teens for the treatment of depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other matters.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park. I provide individual therapy for adults and teens for the treatment of depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other matters.
(952) 373-0420 View (952) 373-0420
Photo of Connie M Carlson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Connie M Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I am a Holistic Family Therapist, specializing in Neuro-therapy: an effective non-drug therapy that uses brain wave technologies (Neurofeedback, Alpha/Theta and Biofeedback), and psychotherapy to achieve optimal health! Feeling stuck in the "same old patterns" and traditional therapies aren't appealing? Take your brain to the gym to enhance central nervous system functioning and improve your MENTAL Performance, EMOTIONAL Control, and PHYSIOLOGICAL Stability! Imagine a therapy that is fun, involves an E.E.G., computer, movies, music, games and zero-gravity chair. I work collaboratively with you, and your feedback is key to healing, transformation, and change.
I am a Holistic Family Therapist, specializing in Neuro-therapy: an effective non-drug therapy that uses brain wave technologies (Neurofeedback, Alpha/Theta and Biofeedback), and psychotherapy to achieve optimal health! Feeling stuck in the "same old patterns" and traditional therapies aren't appealing? Take your brain to the gym to enhance central nervous system functioning and improve your MENTAL Performance, EMOTIONAL Control, and PHYSIOLOGICAL Stability! Imagine a therapy that is fun, involves an E.E.G., computer, movies, music, games and zero-gravity chair. I work collaboratively with you, and your feedback is key to healing, transformation, and change.
(612) 616-6113 View (612) 616-6113
Photo of Julia S Fox, Counselor in Victoria, MN
Julia S Fox
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
Immediate availability for online only! Suffering is a common part of life, and as painful as it can be, it can also be a great source of change and growth. I believe a warm, accepting, and non-judgmental space is essential in order for you to feel supported in sharing your story, emotions, and participating in a change process. I place a large emphasis on the therapeutic relationship- using an integrated approach based on the needs of each individual. I also am the type of therapist that will challenge you, ask questions, provide insight, and work with you collaboratively to address what is most important to you.
Immediate availability for online only! Suffering is a common part of life, and as painful as it can be, it can also be a great source of change and growth. I believe a warm, accepting, and non-judgmental space is essential in order for you to feel supported in sharing your story, emotions, and participating in a change process. I place a large emphasis on the therapeutic relationship- using an integrated approach based on the needs of each individual. I also am the type of therapist that will challenge you, ask questions, provide insight, and work with you collaboratively to address what is most important to you.
(612) 255-1441 View (612) 255-1441
Photo of Thomas Alan McLarnan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Thomas Alan McLarnan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I have been in practice for 30 years. I have learned we all seek to feel valued & safe in our relationships. Sometimes when we are not feeling valued we become angry & in the process self defeating in our behaviors. My goal is to help clients gain confidence so they are better able to get their needs met within their relationships.
I have been in practice for 30 years. I have learned we all seek to feel valued & safe in our relationships. Sometimes when we are not feeling valued we become angry & in the process self defeating in our behaviors. My goal is to help clients gain confidence so they are better able to get their needs met within their relationships.
(612) 260-7409 View (612) 260-7409
Photo of Afton Steinhoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Afton Steinhoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
“‘Why should I listen to my heart?’” “‘Because you'll never again be able to keep it quiet. Even if you pretend not to have heard what it tells you, it will always be there inside you, repeating to you what you’re thinking about life & about the world. You will never be able to escape from your heart.’” The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I've had the privilege to assist individuals to grow through curiosity into deeper awareness of their thoughts, limiting beliefs, and identification of any root issues. I enjoy assisting individuals to reconnect with the core of who they were created to be, before the world and trauma had their impacts.
“‘Why should I listen to my heart?’” “‘Because you'll never again be able to keep it quiet. Even if you pretend not to have heard what it tells you, it will always be there inside you, repeating to you what you’re thinking about life & about the world. You will never be able to escape from your heart.’” The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I've had the privilege to assist individuals to grow through curiosity into deeper awareness of their thoughts, limiting beliefs, and identification of any root issues. I enjoy assisting individuals to reconnect with the core of who they were created to be, before the world and trauma had their impacts.
(651) 967-7418 View (651) 967-7418
Photo of Jenna Edlund, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Jenna Edlund
Psychologist, MA, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults increase their emotional and behavioral regulation for anxiety disorders, OCD, and early childhood behavioral challenges. Through a collaborative approach, I provide individual therapy with the child, while also involving parents in the process to provide parents with the tools to support their child/teen. My collaborative, relational, playful, light-hearted style allows me to develop a warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship with every client, which creates a safe environment for children, teens, and adults to learn the skills to manage daily life experiences.
I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults increase their emotional and behavioral regulation for anxiety disorders, OCD, and early childhood behavioral challenges. Through a collaborative approach, I provide individual therapy with the child, while also involving parents in the process to provide parents with the tools to support their child/teen. My collaborative, relational, playful, light-hearted style allows me to develop a warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship with every client, which creates a safe environment for children, teens, and adults to learn the skills to manage daily life experiences.
(952) 260-8344 View (952) 260-8344
Photo of Kim Pufahl, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Victoria, MN
Kim Pufahl
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
Relationships can be challenging and have many issues in families, young and old, couple relationships and marriages, new and longevity, and teenagers and parents or teenagers and peers. My passion is helping explore these relationships and how they affect our behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. You may feel stuck, unhappy, hurt, lost, or confused in your relationships or want more guidance on specific issues. We will explore together to understand and learn to love more of who you are and those relationships surrounding you.
Relationships can be challenging and have many issues in families, young and old, couple relationships and marriages, new and longevity, and teenagers and parents or teenagers and peers. My passion is helping explore these relationships and how they affect our behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. You may feel stuck, unhappy, hurt, lost, or confused in your relationships or want more guidance on specific issues. We will explore together to understand and learn to love more of who you are and those relationships surrounding you.
(952) 522-4921 View (952) 522-4921
Photo of Sarah Cherwien Hoel, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Sarah Cherwien Hoel
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I am currently accepting new clients, for both in-person and telehealth sessions. People often hold their pain inside, perhaps fearing they will burden others or not get the support they need. I can help by providing a space in which you can express yourself freely. In my experience, opening up emotionally to access the core of pain is where lasting, transformative change takes place. Thus, I am committed to providing an environment in which you feel free to express your feelings, no matter how difficult, in order to lead a fuller, richer life.
I am currently accepting new clients, for both in-person and telehealth sessions. People often hold their pain inside, perhaps fearing they will burden others or not get the support they need. I can help by providing a space in which you can express yourself freely. In my experience, opening up emotionally to access the core of pain is where lasting, transformative change takes place. Thus, I am committed to providing an environment in which you feel free to express your feelings, no matter how difficult, in order to lead a fuller, richer life.
(763) 265-6089 View (763) 265-6089
Photo of Perfectionism Overachiever Specialist Sarah Evert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Perfectionism Overachiever Specialist Sarah Evert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, MN 55386
You're thriving professionally, but do you feel like you’re never good enough? Like you’re lost trying to complete a To-Do list that never ends? You feel stuck in routines that aren’t working for you? And you think through your problems over and over but nothing changes? Sarah (she/her) enjoys working with teens & adults in the Twin Cities, specializing in work with those who identify as Perfectionists and Over-achievers. The clients I enjoy working with the most commonly face the following issues—-high stress environments, self-criticism, feel stuck, experience conflict with loved ones, and struggle to feel like they are enough.
You're thriving professionally, but do you feel like you’re never good enough? Like you’re lost trying to complete a To-Do list that never ends? You feel stuck in routines that aren’t working for you? And you think through your problems over and over but nothing changes? Sarah (she/her) enjoys working with teens & adults in the Twin Cities, specializing in work with those who identify as Perfectionists and Over-achievers. The clients I enjoy working with the most commonly face the following issues—-high stress environments, self-criticism, feel stuck, experience conflict with loved ones, and struggle to feel like they are enough.
(507) 203-2146 View (507) 203-2146
Photo of Kay L Nordgren, Counselor in Victoria, MN
Kay L Nordgren
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
Are you a feeling zapped out of energy, time, or peace of mind from worry, stress or negative thoughts? Do you feel stuck, stale or stagnant with a situation, with certain parts of your life, or with your mental health? Is trauma, depression, stress, or anxiety getting you into fight, flight or freeze mode? Are you feeling sad from a death or a break up? Therapy can help you be more aware, discerned, authentic, calm, healed, eased, less negativity, having better boundaries, be less triggered, take things less personally, more personal power, better self care and having healthier connections.
Are you a feeling zapped out of energy, time, or peace of mind from worry, stress or negative thoughts? Do you feel stuck, stale or stagnant with a situation, with certain parts of your life, or with your mental health? Is trauma, depression, stress, or anxiety getting you into fight, flight or freeze mode? Are you feeling sad from a death or a break up? Therapy can help you be more aware, discerned, authentic, calm, healed, eased, less negativity, having better boundaries, be less triggered, take things less personally, more personal power, better self care and having healthier connections.
(952) 955-6730 View (952) 955-6730
Megan Thorp
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
(952) 592-7853 View (952) 592-7853

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Abby Hough, Counselor in Victoria, MN
Abby Hough
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Not accepting new clients
Life is hard, but we don't have to go through it alone. Whatever struggles you're currently experiencing, I'm here to help. I value the uniqueness of each person and their experience, and I understand that there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. You and I will partner to develop a trusting relationship that allows for growth, reflection, and change. I'll meet you where you're at, and give you a safe space to start exploring and creating a life you find worth living.
Life is hard, but we don't have to go through it alone. Whatever struggles you're currently experiencing, I'm here to help. I value the uniqueness of each person and their experience, and I understand that there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. You and I will partner to develop a trusting relationship that allows for growth, reflection, and change. I'll meet you where you're at, and give you a safe space to start exploring and creating a life you find worth living.
(952) 900-4831 View (952) 900-4831
Photo of Maggie Wangen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Maggie Wangen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chaska, MN 55318
Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly. Personal growth and healing are attainable in any stage of life. I enjoy empowering clients by helping them embrace change, create healthier relationships and eventually self-manage their struggles for greater contentment with life. My professional passions include supporting young adults to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, to challenge old definitions of themselves, break unhealthy cycles and pursue a sense of fulfillment.
Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly. Personal growth and healing are attainable in any stage of life. I enjoy empowering clients by helping them embrace change, create healthier relationships and eventually self-manage their struggles for greater contentment with life. My professional passions include supporting young adults to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, to challenge old definitions of themselves, break unhealthy cycles and pursue a sense of fulfillment.
(320) 589-5947 View (320) 589-5947
Photo of Sheri Hinrichs, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Sheri Hinrichs
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Waitlist for new clients
As you browse profiles looking for the right therapist, you will find many leading with their degrees, training and hopes that they have just the right 'cure' for what you're facing. I look at therapy and being a therapist slightly different. I don't want to imply or assume that I know more about being you than you do. I don't want to imply or assume that I know what's right or best for you. You already have that information and knowledge. My job is to help you uncover it.
As you browse profiles looking for the right therapist, you will find many leading with their degrees, training and hopes that they have just the right 'cure' for what you're facing. I look at therapy and being a therapist slightly different. I don't want to imply or assume that I know more about being you than you do. I don't want to imply or assume that I know what's right or best for you. You already have that information and knowledge. My job is to help you uncover it.
(651) 350-0806 View (651) 350-0806
Photo of Armani Cartlidge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Victoria, MN
Armani Cartlidge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Chaska, MN 55318
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy approved Supervisor. I began my time at David Hoy & Associates as an intern, and now work as an out-patient therapist. I have experience working with clients from ages 5 to 55 providing services to individuals and their families. My focus surrounds strengthening interpersonal relationships along with working through past trauma in all forms. We are all human and imperfect, yet resilient and capable.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy approved Supervisor. I began my time at David Hoy & Associates as an intern, and now work as an out-patient therapist. I have experience working with clients from ages 5 to 55 providing services to individuals and their families. My focus surrounds strengthening interpersonal relationships along with working through past trauma in all forms. We are all human and imperfect, yet resilient and capable.
(952) 592-8696 View (952) 592-8696

See more therapy options for Victoria

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Victoria, MN

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Victoria, MN who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
81% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
63% Parenting
63% Coping Skills
56% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% Medica
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Victoria, MN see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Victoria?

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.