Therapists in California

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.

Hello, I'm Kara Ranes, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 17 years of experience working in mental health. I received my master's degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2009, and recently enrolled in a doctoral degree program in Clinical Psychology. I use a person-centered approach in therapy, viewing you as the expert. I seek to understand and hold space for you to explore the issues bringing you to therapy. My empathic, personable nature allows me to connect with various personality types. I take a multicultural approach to my work with clients, respecting and incorporating cultural variables into the therapeutic process and treatment goals. My go-to treatment models are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), but also integrate aspects of additional models such as solution-focused therapy, family systems therapy, and narrative therapy.

Welcome, it takes motivation and courage to reach out for assistance with life's challenges; I appreciate you taking time out of your day to review my profile. From my 15+ years in the field of Social Work I strongly believe that Talk Therapy can have an overwhelmingly positive impact upon various mental health conditions, cognitions and coping skills. Having an early love of books, and social justice inspired me to eventually enter the field of Social Work. I received my BA from Tufts University and my MSW from The University of Washington.

My name is Angelica Gutierrez-Cruz and I was born and raised in Northern California. I am a first generation Mexican-American queer person. I am bicultural and bilingual in both English and Spanish. I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified substance use counselor. I have over 15 years of experience working with people from diverse communities who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. ------- Me llamo Angelica Gutiérrez-Cruz y nací y me crie en el Norte de California. Soy una persona cuir primera generación México-Americana. También soy bicultural y bilingüe en español e ingles. Soy licenciada en trabajo social y consejera certificada de alcohol y otras drogas. Tengo mas de 15 anos de experiencia trabajando con personas de diferentes comunidades que han sufrido de depresión, ansiedad, trauma, y problemas de alcohol y otras drogas.

Hello! I'm Amber, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in the field of psychotherapy for 20 years and have the honor of working with many indivudals experiencing many different situations. My theories of choice are Psychodynamic and CBT, however, I use a whatever-it-takes approach with clients to help them think, feel and do their best. Depression, anxiety and substance abuse/misuse are the areas I have concentrated on for the past 10 years. My skills include empathy, compassion and I also find, a good dose of humor goes a long way toward healing. Together we will find a way to help that will work best for you.

Ever since I was a young man, I had the desire to help others in need. My classmates told me that I should be a psychiatrist due to the fact I had a natural ability to read people very well. I am glad I get to do what I am passionate about for a living; it feels as if I am not working at all because I enjoy the work so much. My style of therapy is conversational. I would never ask what is wrong with you, but what is right with you. Working from the strengths perspective is important because enhancing our strengths can help you be a better person and what is why you come to therapy in the first place.

Hello and welcome! My name is Letitia Obot, and I am a licensed clinical therapist. Life can be challenging, overwhelming and sometimes we need support navigating through the ups and downs, the changes happening in our lives and help to face the unknown. Reaching out for help is not always easy, I'd like to take a moment to acknowledge and honor your courage to reach out for help. As a therapist, my focus is working together to facilitate healing and meet your individual therapeutic needs and goals. I am experienced in utilizing different treatment methods such as CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Mindfulness base approach to identify unhelpful thoughts and patterns of behaviors, develop practical strategies, and learn new skills/techniques to overcome challenges.

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.

My name is Leticia Cantor. I am a bilingual (English-Spanish) licensed clinical social worker with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I was inspired by passionate individuals focused on serving the population aged 0-5. I am passionate about helping people in need. I love the work that I do, the best reward I receive is observing the progress of the individuals I serve.

My name is Erick, and I’m a person-centered therapist who works with adolescents and adults. I utilize a personalized, strengths-based approach, tailoring sessions to your unique needs and helping you meet your specific goals. I have training in trauma-informed care and evidence-based treatment modalities. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, honest, and accepting space that respects your personal values. I take a collaborative approach and welcome your feedback on my style and techniques, so we can shape therapy in a way that works best for you. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered as you process life’s challenges and work toward personal growth.

Hello! Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, adjustment concerns, or relationship challenges? I'm here to help. My approach is collaborative and supportive. I'm focused on helping you build and practice new skills, deepen your understanding of yourself, and regain confidence as you navigate life's challenges. Together, we can work toward a meaningful change and well-being.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.

You might be in a very dark sad and lonely place, or you may be feeling intense anxiety and sometimes even panic or perhaps you are dealing with a lot of pain and uncertainty due to illness or disability. Right now, you’re at the point of knowing that something has to change, you’re ready but you just don’t know how to do it on your own. You want to feel better. You just want to be yourself again, maybe a different or better version of yourself. As your therapist I can be a flashlight as you walk through this shadowy path that you find yourself on right now. Whether I use solution focused therapy, DBT, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, trauma informed CBT, Emotionally Focused couples therapy or a mix, what matters most is the safe environment we will create so that you can share openly and allow yourself to be vulnerable with someone who will truly listen, support and empower you as you create the best version of yourself possible.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.

My name is Ari Walker. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in mental health for 10 years and have been a clinician for 5 years. I am a mom, wife, outdoor enthusiast, and lover of water activities and coffee. I love walking along side clients on their journey to discovering themselves as they pave their path to healing. I believe humans are extraordinary and capable of amazing things and it is my joy to come along side to help them tap into their already there strength and wisdom.

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, so I focus on creating a space that feels warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental from the very beginning. I approach therapy with curiosity, compassion, and collaboration, and I value building genuine, trusting relationships with my clients. My goal is to help you feel more confident in yourself, better able to understand your emotions, and supported as you move toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps clients reconnect with themselves through a body-based, mindfulness-centered approach to healing. Many of the people I work with carry the effects of trauma, anxiety, attachment wounds, or painful life experiences that still feel present in their bodies and minds. I work from a mindfulness-based practice of “being with what is,” while helping clients use their bodies as allies in the healing process. Through a collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed approach, I support clients in moving out of survival mode and into greater safety, clarity, and emotional freedom. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where healing and growth feel possible.

Hi, I’m Eve, and I realize that reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and supported as you work toward greater confidence, balance, and emotional wellness. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and certified life coach with over 11 years of coaching experience. I’m certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. I enjoy helping clients strengthen emotional regulation, increase self-awareness, and navigate life’s challenges in ways that feel realistic and sustainable. If this sounds like a good fit for what you’re looking for, I’d love to connect and explore how I can support you.

Hi there! It’s my pleasure to greet you! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, and I can’t wait to partner with you on your wellness journey. There are times when life seems more difficult than we can bear. In today’s current climate, life can seem more confusing as the days go by. Managing social issues, employment challenges, relationship difficulties, and personal struggles can be all consuming. With over 6 years of experience, I am passionate about partnering with clients on how to see the best in themselves and how to establish autonomy and agency in their lives. As a wife and mother within a blended family, I am very familiar with life’s struggles and challenges. Stress, anxiety, depression, disappointments, don’t have to get the final say in your life. My role as a therapist is to support you with discovering peace, inspiration, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. Deciding to seek therapy to help manage your day-to-day life is a huge first step. You are important and you’re worth taking that step. If you believe that I can support you as you re-establish goals for your life, I would love to connect with you.

Hi, My name is Marissa and Im a Bilingual Spanish speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 7 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults in outpatient clinic and in a crisis setting providing emergency mental health support. I offer a warm, safe and compassionate space where my clients truly feel seen and supported. With care and collaboration ,I help build skills that nurture emotional growth ,resilience and a deeper sense of well being . I can support you and the family to help navigate some of life's challenges while also celebrating accomplishments, big or small let’s highlight them all. I also want to start by saying how incredibly proud I'am of you for taking the first step towards receiving support and guidance . Giving yourself grace and even considering therapy is a powerful act of self care. Whether you are looking for your teen to build coping skills , a young adult wanting to improve their self esteem and peer relationships , or set healthy boundaries and work through family conflict ,this is a non judgmental space where you are supported and understood. So grab your favorite snack , settle into a comfy chair or where ever you feel most comfortable, and let’s get started together.

I have been licensed for 35 years. I received my degree in clinical psychology from George Fox University. I specialize in PTSD, depression and anxiety. I have used EMDR and CBT to address trauma. I enjoy helping people discover stories they have been living that no longer work for them. Hope is an essential quality to have as you embrace new narratives and ways of being in the world. I am committed to honesty and compassion as you discover new ways of being. I employ a style that is relational and collaborative. Faith has been an important part of my journey and I am comfortable incorporating that into your work if you desire.

My name is Susan O’Connell. I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master’s Degree from Loyola University Chicago and specialized training in Family and Couples Therapy at the Chicago Center for Family Health. For over 29 years, I have worked extensively with individual adults, couples, families, adolescents, and children. I create a warm, accepting atmosphere in which to work with clients and find solutions. I help identify my clients’ strengths and resiliencies.

Hello, If you’re on this website I want to applaud you for your bravery and courage to seek services. I believe our earliest relationships shape how we understand ourselves, connect with others, and cope with emotional challenges. In therapy, I help clients explore how early relational experiences influence present-day patterns in relationships, self-worth, and emotional regulation. Rather than focusing on “what’s wrong,” we work to understand what once helped you adapt and how those strategies may no longer be serving you. I take a relational, attachment-informed approach, using the therapeutic relationship as a safe, supportive space to build insight, foster emotional growth, and create meaningful, lasting change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping people feel more grounded, confident, and supported. I have extensive experience working with adults and older adults from various backgrounds facing emotional issues and complicated medical conditions. I specialize in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and caregiver stress, as well as those seeking guidance in building healthier relationships and improving self-esteem. My work is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration-creating a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Im a kind and caring person fundamentally. I studied social work, which feels like a natural extension of who I am, at Barry University. I have served a variety of populations since my MSW in my roles as an inpatient/ER case manager in acute care and psychiatric hospitals. I am clinically licensed and work independently serving clients through Telehealth. My goal is to provide my clients support and guidance and provide a safe space for them to express themselves. I enjoy treating each client individually and collaborating with them to address their concerns and implement changes to improve their quality of life.

Hello, I am Amelia, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I help individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. I use a blend of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT, to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with children and adults to build coping skills, improve communication, obtain healthier relationships and create meaningful change. My approach is friendly, supportive and solution-focused, providing education and guidance to help clients feel heard, empowered and motivated to achieve their goals. I strive to create an environment where you can safely lean into difficult feelings and process your past and present without shame of judgment. It is an honor to be a therapist, and I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those I have the opportunity to work with.

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!

As a biracial, Black and Mexican, female clinician, I understand the obstacles and barriers to healing the mind, body and soul; and leading an overall physically and mentally healthy life. I take a collaborative approach in helping individuals create life goals that they want to work towards. I aim to create a safe and non- judgmental space for individuals. If you feel as though you can benefit from learning how to develop positive ways to cope with anxiety, sadness, anger, low- self esteem, isolation, racing thoughts and more, please contact me for further information and a consultation. I look forward to starting this journey of healing with you

I am a TRAUMA based therapist of Mexican descent, and my work is grounded in understanding how trauma, culture, and identity shape emotional well-being. My background and training allow me to approach healing through both a clinical and cultural lens, honoring lived experience, family systems and generational resilience. This is Trauma based therapy which means we may explore childhood experiences, family relationships and generational patterns that continue to impact your current life. Potential clients are those who are having to navigate living in a society that profiles, polices, and dehumanizes People of Color and immigrant bodies. Culturally rooted and trauma aware, treatment will focus on utilizing EMDR versus traditional talk therapy. A therapist who "gets it" without the need to explain culture or values. More specifically, I want to create a safe space and invite individuals who are being racially profiled and targeted in public spaces, anxiety tied to immigration status, racial/cultural trauma, emotional impact of racism/deportation fears, shame/guilt, hypervigilance, depression, emotional numbness, family pressure, people pleasing, perfectionism, made to feel as they are "not good enough", feeling responsible for everyone's emotions, cultural identity, internalized shame or silence around your culture/identity/or needs, family expectations, or intergenerational trauma. You may feel torn between cultures, exhausted by the need to explain yourself or burdened by stories and silence that were passed down to you. You are NOT broken, you have been surviving utilizing survival responses, passed down out of love, pain and necessity.

My name is Penny, and I have been in practice for 14+ years. I am here to help you grow and heal. I enjoy meeting a client where they are, and I take a client centered approach to treatment. My approach is rooted in respect, empathy and confidentiality. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and ensure clients are comfortable sharing their unique experiences.

Hello, I'm Dr. Zhang, Do you feel overwhelmed by life stress? Do you have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or getting motivated? Depression and anxiety are common reactions to chronic or acute stress. It's important to take time and care for ourselves. I help clients understanding their current difficulties and developing effective strategies and solutions. Seeking therapy can be a scary process. It's difficult to be vulnerable with a stranger. I believe clients should be treated with compassion, dignity, and respect. I encourage you to reach out and begin the healing process.

I am a compassionate EMDR trained psychotherapist who values my clients' time. This career path became of interest to me after my time in the military, where I saw many of my friends' lives destroyed by PTSD. I am now committed to healing and advocacy work for veterans and civilians alike suffering from mental health conditions. If you are willing to put in the effort, I will bring strategies to our sessions with proven success rates, and continually monitor your progress so that I can be sure that you are hitting your personal goals and getting relief from your symptoms.

I am a Latinx therapist who began practicing in 2014 and have experiencing helping people heal and continue on their mental health journeys. I love to support individuals in feeling confident in their own choices and finding their best self. I hope to help you too in finding your own healing path.

Hello, I am Coralia Valdez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years. Throughout my work as therapist, I believe that real change happens when you feel truly heard and supported. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore your challenges, discover your strengths, and move toward the life you want.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA. I received my Masters in Social Work from Columbia University and have been practicing for over 14 years, both as a therapist and in community mental health settings. I help adults who are feeling stuck with depression, relationship issues, and challenging childhood issues become the best versions of themselves. I help clients come to terms with their past, heal, grow, and move forward.

Each of us has our own story and sometimes our experiences leaves us feeling confused, frightened, sad, and often tremendously isolated. I believe therapy can unravel harmful repetitive thought processes and behaviors. Your painful experiences do not have to define you. My approach to therapy always starts with listening to my client's needs. My methods evolve through constant customization and mutual collaboration. Therapy with me will include exploring aspects of life that are not working well and constructing solutions.

Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.

I offer a non‑judgmental, empathic, and supportive space where clients can feel safe to explore their experiences. My goal is to empower you as you navigate life’s challenges and discover your own capacity for growth. I view therapy as a collaborative process of self‑exploration, acceptance, healing, and recognition of your strengths, challenges, and goals. I believe that you are the expert on you. My role is to walk alongside you, offering tools, insight, and guidance that support your journey toward clarity and well‑being. Because every person’s story is unique, I draw from multiple therapeutic modalities and tailor my approach to meet your individual needs. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, grief and loss, and challenges faced by children, teens, young adults, couples, and families. My intention is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to move toward the life you want.

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.

Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical and therapeutic experience. I have a masters degree from USC with a concentration in children and families. During my Master’s program, I lead and facilitated substance abuse group therapy, assisted multiple diagnosis individuals in a group home setting, and received internship hours at a women’s victims of crime outpatient treatment center, and a community clinic. I also have 5 years experience in mental health private practice.

I’m Dr. Shaina L. Joseph, PsyD, a licensed psychologist specializing in working with children and adolescents. I received my degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. My approach to therapy can be summarized using a famous quote: We see things as not they are, but as we are. Essentially this means that I believe in the importance of every person's unique perspectives and lived experiences.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), licensed in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. I have a Master of Arts in psychology and have been practicing for 14 years. I help adults of all ages, who are struggling with symptoms relative to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other issues, to reduce their symptoms on their path towards mental wellness and the best version of themselves.

As a clinician, I am dedicated to achieving results for my clients. I believe my clients can find their best solutions, and my job is to help them navigate towards these goals. I take a collaborative approach, working together with my clients to explore and distinguish difficult emotions and their underlying story. Once my client has a good understanding of where they’ve been and where they are, we can work together to plot a course towards where they want to me.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and for the past 9 years , I've been helping individuals like you work through life's challenges and find greater peace and well-being. I understand how overwhelming things can get-- whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating big life changes-- I'm here to offer support. As a bilingual therapist, I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. My goal is to create a safe non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and emotions. I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is especially effective for addressing trauma. I also use techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing to tailor our sessions to your unique needs. Whether you're looking for help with managing stress, improving relationships, or overcoming painful experiences, I'm here to listen and guide you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. Let's work together to help you feel more empowered and ready to move forward with confidence.

Greetings! My name is Leslie Bartholomew and I am excited to get to know you and help support your road to healing and change. Although I have achieved licensure fairly recently, I have about 14 years of therapeutic experience in a vast array of populations (individuals, teens, children, young adults, couples, foster youth, unaccompanied minors and migrant families). My passion derives from providing a safe and accepting environment to prepare clients to undergo healing and achieve a full and balanced life. I particularly enjoy giving back to the Latino community which I am a part of and an advocate for equality and a world free from discrimination and abundance of acceptance. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered to reach your personal goals.

My name is Megan, not “therapist Megan,” just Megan. I am an authentic individual who genuinely strives to meet people where they are and support them on their life journey. In sessions, I approach each person with empathy, compassion, and a solution-focused mindset, providing psychoeducation and guidance to help them achieve their goals. Above all, I value the therapeutic relationship, built on a foundation of trust and non-judgment.

PLEASE NOTE: I am a Gerontological Counselor. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.

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.

Hello, my name is Melisa, and I am an experienced therapist with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and achieve their full potential. With nearly a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients and gain expertise in various evidence-based therapies. As a therapist, I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without fear of stigma. My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to the unique needs and goals of each individual. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy and parent child therapy among other modalities. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to empower my clients to make meaningful changes in their lives, improve their relationships, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives, and I am committed to providing the highest quality of care to my clients. If you are seeking support in navigating life's challenges and improving your mental health and well-being, I would be honored to work with you.

I believe that everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s challenges and create positive change in their lives. As a licensed LMFT therapist, I support clients towards their self-discovery process through the transformative power of psychotherapy to create meaningful changes in life, empower unique gifts and purpose, and enhance mental and emotional well-being. I believe that each of us possesses an internal source of insight and wisdom that can be cultivated through therapy. My approach is warm, relational, strengths-based and trauma-informed. I work from a place of compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you are looking for guidance, improved relationships, insight, or to develop healthy coping strategies, you can make meaningful changes in your life one step at a time. So I encourage you to take time for yourself to nurture your mental and emotional well-being, activating your innate ability to cultivate a more fulfilling and balanced life.