Teisha, the heart and soul behind Mental Wellness with Teisha, a mental health practice in California. Teisha is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience. As the founder of a Black, female-owned business, she is dedicated to offering mental health services that reflect her deep commitment to education, advocacy, and community support. Our practice is built on compassion, integrity, and collaboration. These core values guide us in providing the highest quality of care and ensure a respectful and empowering experience for all our clients.

Thank you for considering therapy as part of your journey. I provide counseling for teens and adults facing challenges and life stressors. I provide a non judgmental space and welcoming to individuals of all walks of life. I work with individuals who are experiencing, anxiety, depression, trauma and major life changes. Our work will be collaborative and goal focused, helping you better understand your experiences, strengthen resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change.

Hello, my name is Megan. I appreciate you taking the leap to want to do something different in your life. I know how hard talking about some of these big life issues can be like the death of our person, living through the struggle of infertility and acknowledging the weight of our anxiety is too much. Sometimes, we are stuck in our loop and yet, we do not have the perspective how to shift the big feelings to make you start to feel better. In the beginning of working together, I want you to feel comfortable sharing your story. Everyone arrives wanting a witness to their grieving at different stages of their process. Your relationship is to different each person had a different relationship to their person. I believe the importance of listening to what is said in the room or what is not said. Many times we are not able to verbalize our pain of trying to live without our person. I think a very necessary part to our healing is to be witnessed by another. My goal is to always create safety in the room. I am a fairly transparent therapist sharing sometimes my personal journey to connect and help clients realize they are not alone in their pain. I look forward to joining you in your healing journey.

My journey as a counselor began working with the Veterans Hospital in an outpatient clinic working with veterans with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, survivors of sexual assault and educating the family. I also have experience working with those who have experienced Intimate Partner Violence, Post Partum-Depression and family members who are caregivers. I am a mother, a caregiver and grandmother who plays an active role in grandkid’s life.

I provide online individual therapy to adolescents and adults across California, offering services in both English and Spanish. I have experience assessing and treating a wide range of mental health symptoms and disorders, and I approach therapy as a collaborative process where we work together to identify goals and create meaningful change. I view you as the expert of your own life, and I’m here to offer support, guidance, and a fresh perspective when it’s helpful. My hope is that our therapeutic relationship empowers you to navigate both present and future challenges with confidence. I’m passionate about helping clients build long‑lasting, positive change through Cognitive‑Behavioral interventions, mindfulness practices, and solution‑focused strategies designed to reduce symptoms, alleviate stress, and support you through life’s transitions.

I have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2018 and have worked in the social work field since 2015. I began my therapy practice in 2022, specializing in working with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression. While it may sound cliché, I am genuinely passionate about helping clients find relief in the moment while also making small, practical changes that support lasting improvement over time. My therapeutic style is warm, approachable, and grounded in a nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe and supported.

I'm Sheldon like the TV show! (Big Bang Theory). I help analytical high-achieving adults who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety and depression untangle their inner world and reconnect with their deeper self-using insight-driven therapy, dream exploration, and a creative lens that helps them uncover what's been buried beneath the surface. Do you often say, "I'm successful on the outside but exhausted and anxious inside," "overthinking everything, but still feeling stuck," or being in a "constant sense of restlessness or dissatisfaction," or being a person who "struggles to access or name emotions clearly." I help clients have greater awareness and emotional clarity and begin to feel grounded, self-trusting and more internally connected. I hope to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms through deeper insight and ability to recognize and break unconscious patterns. I help clients discover meaning through creative exploration, and dream work. I want clients to increase their confidence in navigating relationships and decisions and moving from analysis paralysis to self-acceptance and expression. My areas of expertise are in Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Mental Illness, Risk Assessment, Trauma, PTSD and Substance Abuse Disorders.

As a Latinx, Spanish-speaking therapist, I bring a holistic and culturally responsive approach to my work. Growing up in an underserved community in Southern California, I saw firsthand how mental health was rarely discussed in many households—a reality that still exists today. This experience drives my commitment to breaking the stigma around mental health and creating safe, affirming spaces for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, multicultural and immigration-related issues, parenting challenges, and life and work stressors

Welcome! I believe that hard times create strong people. I offer an inclusive, safe, and nonjudgmental space to transform struggle into clarity, resilience, and empowered action. I provide therapy for adults navigating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Stress as well as a variety other conditions. I offer a space that is considerate and respectful, but also open and receptive, where you can speak and be heard, and where missing the mark is only another chance to understand each other. If you are searching for something more— more clarity, grounding, or a way to arrange the fragments—and you are willing to be vulnerable, to be known, this is your invitation.

Your present circumstances don't determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. -Nido Qubein I take a whole person and collaborative approach to therapy, catering therapy to the individual sitting in front of me. My specialties are in the field of grief and loss. Grief is not just bereavement, it is also the loss of a job, a relationship or a dream.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the state of California and Arizona. I received my masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing therapy in California for about 13 years in various settings. I recently obtained my license to work with clients residing in Arizona. I have experience working in a healthcare setting, school campuses, domestic violence shelters, and with substance abuse.

My name is Crystal Torres, LMFT, and I am a client centered therapist full of lots of passion to help others live their best lives. I have been working in the field since September 2017 and most recently have been working with moderate to severe mental health issues. In my free time I like to spend time with my family, go on hikes, take a walk on my walking pad while watching my favorite show or spend some time cleaning and organizing my home.

I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and enjoy being a guide on your journey to find your spark again. I use a humanistic approach to better understand the whole picture of who you are, where you come from, and the life you want to live. Keeping a warm and healing space, let us talk about all the things and nothings because I will listen. You are heard. You are not alone. Everyone has a story, but not everyone has an audience.

I am a therapist with ample life experience, as well as experience serving the client populations of California. I will meet you where you are and have the ability to empathize with you on many levels. I will listen, encourage and support you in a non-judgmental environment. Feel free to express yourself how you like and be open about how you feel. Let's begin this journey and make some progress together.

I am a compassionate mental health therapist who works collaboratively with clients to create a supportive, respectful space for growth and healing. I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, trauma-focused CBT, and solution-focused therapy to help individuals build practical coping skills, reconnect with their strengths, and work toward meaningful change. My goal is to help clients feel heard, empowered, and supported as they navigate life’s challenges.

Hi! My name is Ana Maria. I received my master's degree in social work from California State University of Long Beach. I have been practicing social work for the last 17 years. I have worked with adults going through depression and anxiety by providing support and discussing coping skills that can help them improve their mood, relationships and quality of life. I also collaborate with clients helping them to identify clients' strengths and resources to solve their problems. Please note that I am currently not able to complete any letters, reports or forms including but not limited to leave of absence and FMLA.

Hello, my name is Jaqueline Contreras. I earned my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from California Lutheran University in 2022. Since then, I have been working with Ventura County, providing mental health services to low- income families. I have experience supporting children, adolescents, and young adults across a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns. As a bilingual therapist from a Hispanic background, I am deeply committed to providing culturally responsive and compassionate care. My personal and professional experience have given me strong understanding of the unique challenges many families face, and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. My goal is to use my knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to support individuals and families in building resilience, improving well-being, and creating meaningful change in their lives

My name is Kathleen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides compassionate, client-centered therapy in a supportive and respectful environment. I believe therapy is a collaborative process grounded in trust, understanding, and curiosity. My approach focuses on the whole person and the experiences that shape them, helping clients gain insight, build confidence, and develop practical tools that support meaningful, lasting change.

I am an integrative therapist who specializes in working with adults and couples, focusing on empathy, connection, and communication to help restore bids for connection. I provide client-centered care to those navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, crises, and other hardships. My approach emphasizes strong therapeutic relationships, creative problem-solving, and compassionate support to help clients clarify their goals, work through challenges, and create meaningful change.

For over 10 years, my work spanned from court advocacy to case management for immigrant and underserved communities in Los Angeles. I have worked in community mental health providing culturally responsive therapeutic services including harm reduction and crisis counseling. Rooted in social justice, my work as a therapist is an extension of my passion in helping others empower themselves and assist in their healing journey.

I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes meaningful change happens when you feel seen, heard, and supported. I work with individuals, children, and adolescents, meeting you where you are while honoring your lived experiences and strengths. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and intentional. I use practical, evidence-based approaches alongside genuine connection to support healing, personal growth, and lasting change.

Welcome – I'm Glad You're Here I’m a humanistic and compassionate therapist who works with adults ages 18 to 64 navigating a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity for growth, healing, and meaningful change. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where we work together to explore your unique experiences and uncover the strengths that already exist within you. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, I aim to understand the whole person—your values, relationships, history, and hopes for the future. Whether you're facing a difficult season or seeking deeper self-understanding, my goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Together, we’ll identify what healing looks like for you and walk that path side by side.

I am a down-to-earth and collaborative therapist who believes that the foundation of effective healing is a genuine, honest connection. I prioritize creating a transparent environment where you feel heard and respected, allowing us to work as true partners in your mental health journey. My approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is most effective when it is practical, straightforward, and focused on your unique reality. In our sessions, I value honesty and the identification of healthy, realistic goals. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), where we work together to uncover the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying irrational thinking patterns and challenging negative self-talk, we can begin to reframe your narrative in a way that serves your growth rather than hindering it. I understand that starting therapy can feel like a significant step, which is why I focus on providing a non-judgmental space where we can tackle challenges at your pace. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, daily stress, or life transitions, my goal is to provide you with a functional toolkit of strategies you can use long after our sessions end. Together, we will move toward a more balanced, resilient, and fulfilling life.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences openly. I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to life’s challenges and that, with appropriate support, individuals can develop insight, resilience, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to working collaboratively with clients from diverse backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse individuals, and I prioritize creating an affirming and inclusive therapeutic space.

Hello and welcome! I'm Allison, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 14 years experience providing therapy. I earned my Masters in Counseling from The University of San Francisco's Sacramento satellite campus in 2012. My approach to therapy begins with establishing a genuine connection with each client and how their challenges are impacting them. I establish this by providing a warm, open, and authentic environment. I enjoy working with people facing a variety of challenges. This includes those experiencing anxiety, depression, those going through life stressors/transitions, and those feeling "stuck" in their lives.

I’m Dr. Farah Pez, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. My work is rooted in a person-centered, non-judgmental approach that empowers clients to reconnect with their inner strengths. With a cross-cultural background and extensive clinical training, I provide a compassionate, grounded space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with honesty and confidence.

I specialize in relationship issues, supporting young adults, couples and families. Attachment injuries and loss can affect how we feel about ourselves and limit our engagement with others. I can help you identify and let go of emotional reactivity and defensiveness. I offer Somatic therapy and EMDR to support people struggling with post-traumatic stress. Processing trauma in this way helps release emotional charge stored in the body to overcome past experiences that hold us back from living life fully. If you feel that you are stuck in a loop, this work can help you let go and move on. Being Daoist, I value living authentically, inner peace, and aligning with nature.

Hello, I am so glad you are here! I’m Brittney Mota, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with young adults navigating anxiety, self-doubt, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, stuck in overthinking, or pressured by family expectations while trying to figure out who they are. As a second-generation Hispanic therapist, I understand how cultural identity and generational dynamics can shape your experiences. My goal is to help you feel more confident, grounded, and in control of your emotions—not just in session, but in your everyday life.

Dr. Norman Quintero is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over seven years of clinical experience providing therapy to individuals and couples. He is licensed to practice in California, Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, and Florida, and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, stress and anger management, and self-esteem concerns. Dr. Quintero utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach that combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic principles, fostering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to achieve meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

Keisha Owens received her bachelor's in psychology from Morgan State University and her master's in counseling psychology at National University. She has over 20 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, Dual Diagnosed Substance Abuse outpatient programs, structured intensive outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric, large nonprofits, and private practice. Keisha uses several therapeutic modalities and is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Intervention. She continues to seek ongoing updates to her skills and knowledge base. Keisha is invested in an approach emphasizing a more integrative, dynamic, and holistic approach to mental health. She is particularly concerned with the impact of loss and trauma and improving intervention to support trauma recovery for better emotional, physical and relationship health.

You don’t have to carry this alone. I’m a California-licensed therapist who supports adolescents, young adults, women, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds through stress, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and trauma recovery. Whether you’re juggling academic pressure, caregiving, career pivots, or the weight of old wounds, I offer a steady, nonjudgmental presence. My style is warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive—I honor the identities, histories, and values that shape who you are, and I approach our work with curiosity, humility, and respect.

My name is Arakel Aristakessian and I am a first generation American of Armenian immigrants. There is never a lack of drama in my family and I think it is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and norms when navigating conflict. In this fashion, I use an individualized approach to meet my clients' needs. My style of therapy is grounded in the person-centered approach. I practice listening with empathy to my client’s lived experiences. I remind myself that it is not my place to judge anyone for their past choices. It is my responsibility to respond honestly and respectfully. My hope is to mediate shame, so that people feel comfortable and safe in opening up about what is troubling them. Once the therapeutic space feels safe, only then can various treatment methods truly be effective.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) fluent in both English and Spanish. With a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges, I have been dedicated to the mental health field since 2017, working with adults and children from diverse communities. I embarked on my journey in mental healthcare driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact in people's lives. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California State University, Bakersfield, which equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective therapy services.

I am a licensed clinical social worker working with the women population. With a strong sense of compassion and counseling skills, a space is created that leads to successful treatment outcomes and a transformative therapeutic experience. I acknowledge the importance of healing as women to develop healthy relationships with ourselves and others in our lives. As a therapist, I am warm, down-to-earth, encouraging, and empathetic. You will feel heard and deeply understood, which is the first step to profound change.

I am licensed in California with 18+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and you already have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming any situations that challenge you. We are all experimenting on the best way to BE in this journey we call life. I do not follow a script or rigid psychiatric protocol. I will authentically meet you where you are at and we will together decide what you need for your next steps. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to getting to know the real you!

Marjorie is a Spanish language Bilingual Psychotherapist from South America and has been practicing in the USA since 2008 as a MSW provider and since 2012 as a LCSW therapist. Marjorie graduated with both a bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in clinical social work from California State University Los Angeles. Marjorie works both in her own private practice -focusing on women’s issues and minority populations - and as a Psychiatric Social Worker for a large managed health care organization, helping clients with diverse psychosocial stressors or chronic mood disorders. Marjorie has extensive experience in social work, advocacy, case management and mental health services for over 18 years. Marjorie has provided psychotherapy services for adults and children from various cultural backgrounds, she’s sensitive to the linguistic needs of the clients served (Spanish/English). Areas of focus: Assessment and diagnosis formulation, treatment planning, counseling (short term specific or situational issues), psychotherapy (long term broader range for mental illness) and crisis intervention.

I'm Kristen LCSW & I've spent decades helping others navigate through the difficult times in their life. My career started in the mid-2000's as a Special Ed teacher at an all boys' residential behavior mod program, when after about 5yrs I realized that education was the surface of their issues and that I wanted to become a therapist. Which is what I did. Went to Rutgers grad school, worked 5yrs prison re-entry, then 5yrs dual dx IOP, before moving into my current role in private practice.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and families through a variety of life challenges. I have been practicing in school-based setting for over 6 years, helping clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and move toward meaningful personal growth. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I value truly listening to what each client hopes to achieve. My role is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space while equipping clients with practical skills to manage daily challenges and move confidently toward their personal goals. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish and am committed to providing culturally responsive care where clients feel understood and supported. I pride myself on developing strong, authentic relationships with my clients and consider it an honor to be included in their healing journey. My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal oriented.

Hello! I'm Karen Weaver. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for over 15 years. Life can be challenging at times and we can all benefit from some support. I listen non-judgmentally and provide unbiased feedback to help you determine what needs to change. My focus in working together is to assist you in becoming your best self. That could be anything from managing anxiety and stress better, to overcoming past challenges or getting along better with family or friends. Life can be challenging but we also can find joy and growth in the tough times.

I am shaped by lived experience, cultural humility, and a deep respect for the therapy relationship. I help clients explore patterns, meaning, and emotional experiences in a safe, collaborative space. I believe healing happens when people feel understood, empowered, and free to grow at their own pace. I see therapy as a collaborative process—one that honors resilience, complexity, and the client’s innate capacity for healing.

Hello and welcome! Thank you for taking the time to read a little about me. I've been in the field of working with people for 15 years. I've worked with children, adolescents and adults in multiple settings including in-home, school, telehealth, and crisis response. The main goal of my work is ensuring client integrity, safety, and an honest working relationship. I like to tell my clients that it's like going on a road trip; you're driving the bus and I'm in the passenger seat helping with directions. If we miss a turn or take a detour, I'm here to help you get back on track. Ultimately you have control of where you want to go and how you get there. If this is your first time considering therapy, or you are having to look for a new provider, I understand it can be overwhelming. I want to assure you, I'm here to make the experience as easy as possible. If we meet and you find that we're not a good fit, please continue your search. It's so important to feel comfortable with the person you choose. A therapeutic relationship is vital in helping you reach your goals. You want to be able to "vibe" with your provider, whoever it may be.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have worked as a therapist for the past 12 years. As a first generation Vietnamese American with immigrant parents, my life experiences of growing up in two very different cultures have taught me ways to navigate through cross-cultural conflicts and have the ability to respond to individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural systems with compassion and understanding. As a therapist, I empower individuals to draw upon their strengths, heal holistically, and self-love. I will encourage and provide a safe space for you to explore, heal, and have the courage to move forward on a journey toward self-discovery, growth, confident, and love. It will help you become more resilience, improve self-worth, and a healthy deep connection with others.

Hi & Welcome. I am a proud Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the social service and mental health field. I specialize in working with transition aged youth, crisis support and working with those who have been incarcerated/ have loved ones incarcerated. I've been licensed in state of California since 2021. I began my calling as a licensed social worker in 2014 after completing my bachelors degree while living in Ohio and completing my masters at the University of Cincinnati. There, I discovered my calling to serve humanity and embarked on my pursuit of a Master of Social Work (MSW) at USC. Throughout the years I have gained valuable experiences working in a variety of settings such as clients homes, star run group homes, correctional settings, psychiatric hospitals, homeless shelters and outpatient settings. My approach is supportive and empathetic while empowering clients to live their best life. Together we will navigate life’s “curveballs” , heal from past situations and strive to get you to your desired future.

Hi, I’m Yashica, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Simi Valley, California. I bring over two decades of clinical experience to my work and believe deeply that hope is the catalyst for meaningful change. My therapeutic style is direct, compassionate, and honest, what I like to call “tough, but good.” I help clients challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and patterns that keep them stuck, creating space for real freedom and transformation. I offer in-person therapy only, and clients must be able and willing to attend sessions at my Simi Valley office.

I’m Alejandra Uribe, a bilingual and bicultural Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience providing integrative psychotherapy to help clients build insight, overcome challenges, and thrive in their emotional, mental, and relational lives. As a therapist working with women and their children I understand the unique experiences and challenges impacting women today. My work focuses on women’s issues such as motherhood and parenting, perinatal and postpartum concerns, mood disorders, and general well‑being. I bring not only professional expertise but also personal perspective, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the complexities of womanhood.

Hi! I am Remya Jacob, licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with experience of working as a medical social worker in various healthcare settings including memory care, clinics and hospice. My work focuses on helping and supporting individuals with different coping skills, prevent burnout and reducing stress. I like to incorporate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy techniques, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy during sessions.

Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role in their respective communities and are an excellent resource for you to realize your strengths and improve your well-being. When your car breaks down you take it to a mechanic. When your tooth hurts you see a dentist. When your mental health can use a “tune-up,” see a Mental Health Professional!

Hello, My name is Alex Haydon. I am a Licensed Therapist, and I'm thrilled that you are reaching out for help and support! I have been licenced for over 13 years, but have been providing therapy since approximately 2007 when I began my practicum, and internships. I have worked with a vast amount of clientele ranging from simple Adjustment Disorders to Major Depressive Disorder, Severe, to Bi Polar I and II. I also have quite a bit of experience working with Psychotic Disorders, such as Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Mood Disorders with Psychotic Features. I have also worked with addictive behaviors, such as Alcohol and other drugs, Gambling, Sex and Pornography addiction, etc.

I have been working with youth, young adults, and families since 1999, and have since dedicated my life work to serving families and children improve their lives. I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2014. My expertise is working with families and children who have behavioral difficulties, mental health, and difficulties within the family dynamics. My wide range of experiences has been working in community home-based services, school settings with children with autism and behavioral difficulties, in government setting with children who have been marginalized and abused, and both in outpatient settings and hospital settings.

My name is Marissa Ruiz, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. Some of my other titles include mother, wife, ex-wife sister, daughter, niece, grandmother and friend. Sharing these titles are important to me because they represent current relationships and past relationships. My past relationships include grief, trauma and growth. I survived obstacles in my life with the help of a therapist. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, empathetic, supportive, good listener and working together with yourself to make a goal. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles.