As a millennial or gen Z woman, you've probably become quite skilled at explaining away your own needs so that others can feel more comfortable. On the outside you look like you are doing fine, but inside loneliness, uncertainty, and self-doubt tell a different story. I specialize in clients who are tired of surviving in silence and are ready to start living. Together we will explore past and present experiences to deepen your self-understanding and nurture healing.

Hello, my name is Virginia.   I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I have experience working with various ages from 3 to 50-years-old. I have worked in community-based mental health services to intense services with children, youth, and adults. Do you ever feel mixed emotions about specific events, situations, or relationships? Do you want to become more self-aware of yourself as an individual and increase your motivation? I love exploring self-awareness and self-love. I have a very open-minded style but can also be transparent to help motivate and challenge you. I enjoy making a difference in others’ lives. I believe that “On the other side of FEAR is SUCCESS.” Let’s work together to create change.

You know we all deal with our issues and sometimes we cannot do it alone. It is hard to talk to a stranger but give it a try. You won't be judged but welcomed and listened to. I am here to work together with you. I am a licensed psychologist and love working with diverse clients from diverse backgrounds who are dealing with the issues like anxiety, depression, identity, relationship, and life change difficulties. As a Korean immigrant myself, I particularly have great knowledge and experience working with Asian/ Asian Americans, People of Color and immigrants. I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling, and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology.

I offer virtual therapy, focusing on helping people set healthy boundaries, speak up for themselves, and make positive changes in their lives. For over 20 years, I’ve helped adults overcome anxiety and codependency by fostering self-love, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My goal is to help clients move through life with greater confidence, clarity, and emotional balance.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I am an integrative therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting women through life transitions, relationship challenges, parenting, neurodiversity (including OCD, Dyslexia, ADHD, and AUDHD) and post-traumatic growth. My work is grounded in deep listening, compassion, and an intuitive understanding of each client's unique inner world. I believe healing happens in the context of feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. My approach is collaborative, strength-based, and integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities while honoring your unique healing process. I truly believe that you are "your best healer" and the work is about connecting you back to your innate wisdom.

Hello, I'm Evelyn, an LCSW working with GROW, exclusively with online clients. If you are experiencing sadness, anxiety or frustration with your relationships, it's time to get the support you need. If you are seeking a therapist who creates a safe and supportive space for change, I think we might work well together. My background encompasses not only experience in clinical social work but also in the fields of nursing and music. I enjoy being inclusive and open in both my personal and professional life. I look forward to learning about you and working collaboratively to effect positive change in your life.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for 12 years. I am a diplomate of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy. As a licensed therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am committed to helping clients identify and transform negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their emotional difficulties. Through CBT, therapy focuses on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges you face, while equipping you with the tools and strategies needed for long-term success. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, we will work together to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.

I'm Dr. Andra Brosh, a licensed Clinical Psychologist who serves as a bridge between the rigorous world of psychology and the profound wisdom of mystical traditions. I specialize in guiding individuals through transformative journeys of self-actualization using a unique integration of evidence-based psychology, astrology, tarot, and Kabbalah. If you're feeling stuck in patterns that drain your energy—cycles of people-pleasing, self-neglect, or trying to be everything to everyone—I understand how isolating and exhausting that can be. Together, we'll create an inspiring therapeutic experience that's both deeply practical and spiritually nourishing, designed to gently guide you from your comfort zone into the radiant truth of your authentic self. Our work together combines the insights of your birth chart, the wisdom of tarot, the transformative map of Kabbalah, and solid psychological tools to help you master the art of self-care, self-advocacy, and healthy boundaries. You'll learn to reclaim your time, your energy, and your freedom while building the confidence to honor your own needs without guilt. If you're tired of living according to everyone else's script and you're ready to step into the deeper joy, peace, and freedom that's been calling to you, I'm here to support that sacred transformation. Book with me, and let's begin the beautiful work of untethering you from self-limiting beliefs so you can finally create a life that feels authentically and joyfully yours. *Please note that your first session will be an intake and a determination if we are a good fit, not a full therapy session*

Hi it's nice to meet you, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Fuller Theological Seminary and have been practicing for over 8 years. I help adults struggling with trauma, anxiety and life stressors to regain their sense of agency, make sense of the past, and make progress towards their goals for the future.

As a licensed psychotherapist in California, I have been working in the field for over 25 years. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage Family Therapy. I am here to empower both women and men who struggle with anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression. I have also incorporated the use of journaling, art, and sandtray therapy into my practice.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with people navigating relational strain and moments of transition or inner questioning. My approach is reflective and relational, guided by curiosity, meaning, and an understanding of how past experiences shape the present, as well as the importance of connecting with a deeper sense of self to create meaningful change. I aim to offer a steady, compassionate space where clients can slow down, listen inward, and reconnect with themselves in ways that feel honest, grounding, and sustainable.

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for eight years. I work with adults that struggle with depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have problems with substance use. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to help you recognize your strengths and learn how to build on those strengths to help you become the best version of yourself.

My name is Richard Lenchner, LMFT and I have been a practicing therapist for over 37 years. I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles and a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Pepperdine University. I believe that everyone deserves a happy and healthy life. This can be achieved when you learn how to balance your life emotionally, spiritually, physically and mentally (ESPM).

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping individuals, families, and couples rewrite unhelpful narratives, reconnect with their strengths, and rediscover hope and happiness in their lives. To name a few, I use Narrative Therapy, CBT, and EMDR to support healing, clarity, and lasting change within yourself, in relationships, and in the community you prefer. Together, we’ll explore the feelings you’re experiencing, identify the barriers that are holding you back, and develop tools to help you cope with the challenges you’re facing.. My work is rooted in self-empowerment through a client-centered and strength-based approach. I believe our past shapes our present and we are more than capable of working toward what we want. By understanding your story, healing what’s unresolved, and planning intentionally for the future, you can move toward a more joyful, fulfilling, and authentic life. My goal is to provide a compassionate space where you can build confidence, process trauma, and create meaningful, sustainable changes in the way that is healthy that works for you and all you hold dear.

Hello, I am Maria Morales, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in San Fernando Valley. I received my Undergraduate Degree in Liberal Studies from Mount Saint Mary's University in 2010 and continued my education at the University of Southern California receiving my Master in Social Work and Public Health in 2015. Establishing rapport is essential in psychotherapy as well as maintaining confidentiality. I often draws on my shared cultural experiences with clients, fostering an environment where openness and vulnerability are encouraged. I am mindful of the cultural nuances in communication styles that may affect trust and disclosure while we work together in therapy to understand the "why" we need therapy to change life patterns that just aren't working anymore.

My approach centers on deep listening, empathy, and honoring each client’s lived experience. I intentionally consider cultural, environmental, and systemic influences, ensuring therapy is respectful, collaborative, and client-led. I believe in creating a comfortable space that supports growth while affirming each person’s identity and self-determination. I am especially enthusiastic about returning to a practice setting focused on working with adults, where I can support clients in exploring identity, healing, and growth.

I provide humor, warmth, and a compassionate, non-judgmental place where you can feel safe to share your concerns. Together, we will work to make goals and through goal-directed activities and conversations, help you make positive changes in your life. I can include faith-based treatment if wanted. This will be work, but it will be worth it. My approach I use an eclectic, person-focused approach tailored to your individual situation and goals. I incorporate CBT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused approaches. This flexibility allows us to form a treatment plan that meets your specific needs and helps you reach your goals. . Treatment goals are set as a team, with you determining what your desired outcome from treatment is, and me assisting you in creating the goals based on how best to assist you with the realistic goal you have set for yourself.

I’m a mental health provider who believes healing happens when we feel seen, supported, and connected to our own inner wisdom. My work blends evidence‑based approaches with a gentle, holistic lens, helping you better understand your patterns, reconnect with your body, and build a life that feels steadier and more aligned. I show up with warmth, clarity, and respect for your lived experience, and I’m committed to creating a space where you can move at your own pace and feel supported in meaningful, sustainable change.

Is this the first time you thinking about having therapy? Let's talk about what therapy is and is not. Tell me your expectations. Therapy is in part, talking about how you are feeling whether you have depression, anxiety, or feel overwhelmed by your work, family or relationships or by all three . But that is just the beginning. My name is Judith Copeland, I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I want to help you achieve the positive changes would you like to see in your life. Do you feel you cannot cope, have no self-esteem or don’t even know what will make you happy? Together we will uncover your strengths and you will learn the skills you need to better manage your emotions. I use several treatment methods including, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Integrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to tailor your care to your specific needs. We will explore what is holding you back from achieving your goals and help you heal from past traumas. You will learn how your negative beliefs influence your mood and get in the way of your happiness. Often, we forget that everything is connected. Mind, Body, and Spirit. We need to take care of ourselves physically, psychologically, and spiritually. We often don’t really understand how deeply connected they are to our well-being. I will help you learn that self-care is just as important and or even more important as everything else you do. We have within ourselves the ability to create the life we want and become the person we want to be. I would like to support you on this journey and look forward to meeting you.

My name is Heather Brown. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a therapist for 18 years and worked with a wide-array of clients in many walks of life. I like the curiosity of life and ways in which we can explore patterns and change and ways we can make adjustments in our lives to change future outcomes. I work for you and my job is to help you have an easier time on your journey through life and help you to meet your goals.

My name is Justin Phillips and I have been helping people with life's challenges for over 18 Years. My fulltime roll is working with a non-profit community-based agency and I provide individual psychotherapy as part of my small private practice. I am an honorably discharged combat veteran and specialize in working with people who have complex mental health challenges, veterans, folks with substance use problems, the formally incarcerated and many others. I am compassionate, caring and provide quality care. I am married with 5 children and live in the East Bay. I have been a lifetime Bay Area resident and enjoy what our communities have to offer. I connect well with people from all cultures and strive to learn more about your individual situation before jumping to conclusions. I am a fierce advocate for the underserved and have helped pass national and state level legislation to protect people and the helping professions. My style of therapy is relational and focused on helping my clients feel better, live better and have a better quality of life. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to accomplish this and am open to adjusting treatment to fit the person, as opposed to checking boxes.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #92771) and registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. I received my Bachelors Degree in Psychology from California State University, San Bernardino. I received my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. I received my Master of Art in Infant and Early Childhood Development with an Emphasis of Mental Health and Disorders. I completed the Napa Infant-Parent-Mental Health Fellowship Program through UC Davis Extension in 2017-2018 cohort.

Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three decades of experience in mental health and clinical experience. I draw from 63 years of my own life experience as a gay man, educational (MSW from the University of Connecticut) and practical knowledge. Thus I understand what it’s like to be marginalized, and feel different like you don’t belong. I use a compassionate, non- judgmental, understanding, strength based approach by acknowledging and welcoming your whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I can help one understand who they are? where they've been? and how they can move forward in their life.

Welcome to my page! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I completed my Masters from Hope International University and have been practicing over the last 7 years. Previously, I enjoyed a successful career as a Cytogenetic technologist, a science background in genetics that I feel adds to the science of the brain (psychology) to better support my clients. I absolutely love working with teens, adults and older adults supporting them in their most vulnerable moments of their lives to facilitate healing, develop healthy skills, and /or find their purpose in life.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 40 years of experience in the fields of addiction, domestic violence, and medical social work. In my years of experience, I've worked almost exclusively with adults individually and in groups who had difficulties managing their lives due to substance abuse and the concomitant mental health issues of depression and anxiety. I also facilitated groups of male and female substance abusers and perpetrators of domestic violence. In our groups, we focused on CBT lessons and exercises involving role play, modeling, and demonstrations. Clients were given homework to continue their learning and practice on their own between sessions. As a social worker working in public and private agencies, I worked with clients experiencing relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and day to day life problems. I strongly uphold the Social Workers Code of Ethics that includes, respecting the dignity and worth of a person and exercising compassion and a non-judgmental approach with each individual. I endorse and utilize multiple therapeutic techniques that include the following: psychodynamic techniques, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, person-centered techniques, and solution focused techniques. I am sensitive and respectful in using techniques that are agreed upon by the client and suitable to meet each individual's needs. I look forward to the opportunity to assist you in working through challenges that will help promote and maintain a better, happier and more peaceful life. My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you! I actively participate in each and every session.

I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Temecula, California. I have experience working in various settings and populations, including working with foster youth, young children, transitional aged youth (16-25), and adults struggling with life difficulties which can include and not limited to concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family problems, and trauma etc. I have provided psychosocial evaluations and therapy for hundreds of individuals struggling with various psychiatric disorders and challenges. I also have significant work experience conducting groups and parenting classes. Additional experience includes years of work in outpatient community mental health, as well as work in Intensive Services Foster Care, a program which provides specialized mental health and behavioral support services to children who have a history of complex traumas, psychiatric hospitalization, and failed placements in the foster care system in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

Welcome! My name is Rosalinda Garza (Rosa), and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I bring years of experience across a range of mental health settings, including correctional facilities, residential programs, community-based services, and educational environments. I am committed to creating a safe, respectful, and compassionate space where clients feel heard and supported. Together, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs one that encourages growth, fosters empowerment, and builds lasting resilience.

Hi! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with over 22 years of joy and experience working with clients in their difficult times. I like to treat the person as a whole and not just symptoms and negative behaviors as it is easy to skip over the positives that makes the person wonderful and unique. My role in working with you is to reconnect you to your inner self and uncover what truly matters to you at your pace with your priorities always in mind.

Welcome! I am a proud person of color and am an ally to LGBTQIA2S community members. My name is Vik and I have over 9 years of experience practicing therapy. My therapy style includes a focus on empowerment, skill-building, and solution-focused ideas. I focus on building a safe, caring, and respectful therapeutic relationship with clients without being too formal. A sense of humor and genuine connection can support successful therapeutic growth. In my spare time I enjoy playing video games, time with my family and dogs, trying new foods, and travel.

I believe that therapy can heal, but I also know that telling a stranger about your deepest pain can be a strange feeling. Perhaps you've been feeling sad, depressed or worried, and hopeless that anything in your life can change. Or maybe you aren't sure what you would even want help with. You know you feel bad, but if someone were to ask you "How can I help?", you aren't sure what you would say. These problems can feel permanent and unsolvable. After all, something feels broken and unfixable, so how could you not feel that it takes all the energy you have just to get up in the morning and go about your day? Depression or anxiety can also feel isolating, as if nobody else could possibly understand. You may have even received advice from people who you feel mean well but can't understand what you're going through. Depression and anxiety are not permanent or unfixable, and therapy can help. Imagine feeling peace of mind, and excited about life and its possibilities. It starts by learning about you and going at your pace. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 16 years experience working with adults and teens, I've seen therapy work, and I feel lucky that I get to be part of that journey for others.

I’m Essy, an LCSW/LICSW, PsyD candidate, and author who works primarily with neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ adults navigating identity, trauma, burnout, masking, and the pressure to overperform in environments that were never designed with them in mind. My approach is relational, trauma-informed, and strongly neuroaffirming. I blend warmth, honesty, insight, and practical support to help clients better understand themselves and build lives that feel more sustainable and authentic.

I am Filipino American and immigrated to the United States as a child. While I am not fluent in Tagalog, I can understand Tagalog. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Santa Clara County. I received my master's degree in social work from San Jose State University (SJSU). I have experience working with younger to older adults who struggle with depression and anxiety.

Hi, I’m Lacee Musgrove, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing virtual therapy for children and teens ages 10–17. I specialize in supporting children and teens living with diabetes, as well as anxiety, depression, chronic suicidal ideation, and self-harm behaviors. I help youth build coping skills to manage stress and develop the emotional resilience needed to navigate both mental health and medical challenges. I also work closely with parents to support compassionate, effective responses at home.

Hello, I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California, I live in the Palm Springs area of Southern Cal. My goal in life is to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

My goal in my counseling is to help my clients live deeply fulfilling lives. I help clients increase their psychological flexibility through various tools and approaches including evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to change their thought patterns. I use experiential approaches including Hypnotherapy to work with subconscious minds and remove blocks that are deep in their psyche. I also provide mindfulness training, which is one of the key techniques for the clients to be more present and accepting in their lives, rather than react reflexively. Each individual's struggles are complex and tied to many factors including their social environment, their physical health, the phases of their lives, skills they already possess, etc. In other words, change can happen in a variety of ways and that's what counseling can help with, pointing out the direction and even the next steps that can help the client to get to their goals and intentions. I work with clients experiencing sleep disorders, chronic pain, anxiety, mood issues, ADHD, career counseling, and those who simply need a tune-up.

Hello, I’m a licensed marriage family therapist based in California. I received my master's in science in California and began practicing as a mental health therapist 10 years ago. I have experience helping adults and youth struggling with moderate to severe mental illness (i.e., anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and suicide prevention). I provide them with support and education on healthy coping strategies to overcome life challenges.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Licensed in California with 18+ years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I help adults who are struggling, become the best version of themselves at their own pace.

Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

I know from experience that looking for a therapist could be stressful. If you are here then you are on the right path and I am here to walk it with you. My name is Marypaz Garrdea. I am a bilingual, Spanish and English, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I am also a clinical psychologist from Mexico City with more than 15 years of experience. My passion is to provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families in a compassionate environment full of support and understanding. At the same time, giving you the tools to grow and achieve your goals in life. “Because life is not what it’s supposed to be. It is what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference” Virginia Satir.

I believe with the right support, people can heal, grow, and resolve even the most difficult challenges. My approach is collaborative and solution focused. I tailor therapy to each client's unique needs, drawing from evidenced-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel safe exploring meaningful change.

Hello, my name is Michael Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, work related stress, and relationship issues. I understand how tough life can be. Before I became a therapist, I went through my own challenges — unhoused, unemployed, and struggling with substance use. Getting sober and working my way through college wasn’t easy, but it shaped the way I show up for others now: with understanding, patience, and zero judgment.

I am a client centered therapist, which means I believe that the client is the expert on their experiences. I ask questions, am open to feedback, and trust the client's capacity for growth and self-actualization. Additionally, I provide coping skills and evidenced based practices to help clients in these areas. I also use art therapy in my practice, which is workable in telehealth.

Are you looking to make changes in your life but don't know where to start? Have you recently experienced a change in your life and are struggling to pick up the pieces? Do you feel stuck repeating the same patterns again and again? I provide a straight forward, down to earth, comfortable atmosphere for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, life transition issues, single mother issues, stress. My goal is to guide you toward a resolution of these problems and help you identify their origins so that you do not repeat the same patterns of coping that were unsuccessful in the past. I also provide various resources in the form of homework exercises designed to assist you in your therapeutic journey.

I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. Using a blend of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused techniques. I aim to empower my clients to develop coping strategies, build resilience, and achieve their personal goals. Outside the therapy room, I love spending time being active in my community and quality time with my family.

Hello, I'm Mary E. Watts, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for guiding individuals, especially women, children and teenagers through mental and emotional challenges. With 29 years of experience and a Master Degree in Social work I've committed myself to foster personal growth and healing in my clients. I have worked with clients from all walks of life, genders, nationalities, ages and races. My life experiences coupled with my education, and professional experiences makes me a therapist who is well rounded, grounded in reality and capable ofmeeting my client's needs.

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.

Welcome and thank you for considering me in your wellness journey. I'm Ekaete Ekpo, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy. I bring warmth, care, compassion, and a nonjudgmental presence to our work together, tailoring therapy to your goals and the unique needs of each client. We'll build insight and practical tools.

I came to this work with a deep desire to support others on their journey toward healing and wholehearted living. My approach is a trauma informed lens that affirms client’s culture, gender identity, and strengths. I create safe, inclusive, and warm environments that are uplifting while giving space to address the challenges that are standing in the way of living your best life. I believe our work is best accomplished when we work authentically and collaboratively.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I use a person centered approach tailored to the individual to help individuals find peace within themselves and joy in their emotions. I have a background working with people experiencing psychosis, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I believe that there is no such thing as “normal” as we all have our own path to walk. I am passionate about about helping others meet the highest version of themselves and grow into that version. I believe that a person is a whole creature - mind, body, and spirit, and all of that must be nurtured.