Therapists in California

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I have been practicing for 10 years. I help young adults and adults in their healing journeys by identifying and addressing the root thoughts and triggers contributing to their negative thought and behavioral patterns. I help them develop the skills to heal from them and be their best version.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a relational, trauma-informed approach to therapy. I believe in creating a warm, collaborative space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences, deepen self-understanding, and move toward meaningful change. My work is grounded in psychodynamic and attachment-based theories, while also incorporating mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral tools, and a strengths-based lens. I specialize in working with adults and young adults navigating anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity exploration, and the long-term impact of trauma. Whether you’re processing past experiences or working through present challenges, I offer a steady, compassionate presence and a thoughtful space to support your growth and healing.

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 10 years experience providing therapy. I earned my Bachelors Degree in Psychology from California State University Sacramento in 2010. I earned my Masters in Counseling from The University of San Francisco's Sacramento satellite campus in 2012. I have worked with a wide variety of clients struggling with various mental health and other interpersonal challenges. My approach to therapy begins with establishing a genuine connection with each client and their challenges. . I establish this by providing a warm, open, safe, and non - judgmental environment.

Hello! I'm Anthony. Ever find that you're spending too much time in your head? Do you find that worrying is interfering or making it harder to manage all of life's stresses? Are you struggling to remain present in the here-and-now? I help individuals address their anxiety, depression, and stress that may be impacting their ability to keep up with life's responsibilities. Together, we'll explore all the qualities of what makes you, you. Utilizing, what we discover, as some sort of blueprint, to improve or expand upon. I have an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based techniques that best fit your needs. If you experience unplanned life events/changes, anxiety, depression, or stress disrupting your flow in life. Know that you're not alone and we'll take it on together. Be ready to learn, adapt, and grow your skills and resources to conquer all that life throws your way. Lastly, I want to thank you for seeking therapy to enhance your mental health well-being. It's a difficult decision to open yourself up and accept help. I look forward to meeting you!

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.

Hey! I'm Kylee (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I started my social work journey in 2013; however, my experience working with families started long before then. I have been working with kids and their families as a therapist since 2019. I have supported people from all walks of life with a wide range of challenges and needs due to anxiety, depression, trauma, SOGIE/LGBTQIA2S+, ADHD, Bipolar, Autism, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts, anger, and many others. While I'm laid back, I’m also direct. My goal is to create a safe space for my clients to feel comfortable sharing.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both California and Nevada as well as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. For over a decade I have specialized in working with individuals who are suffering from alcohol and drug addiction and the criminal justice/re-entry populations, as well as anxiety, depression, trauma and occupational/ social stressors. I am a lifelong learner and always challenge myself to stay on top of the new information being researched in the mental health and substance use disorder fields.

Hello, my name is Seana Aylen and I'm a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for assisting individuals who find themselves needing a bit of support to get through their current struggles. I believe in empowering individuals and working collaboratively to resolve feelings of anxiety, depression, or a range of troubled interpersonal dynamics. I have been fortunate to have a long career in the field of assisting others, thereby, have created a sense of understanding and empathy, while presenting as authentic. I understand that life is sometimes a bit messy and everyone could potentially use someone to guide them in their return to personal happiness and a sense of stability and peace. Together we can collaborate and find a way to get you back into a balance, addressing the individualized troubles that have been making life challenging.

I'm a bilingual (English / Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. I obtained my Masters degree from the University of Southern California in 2014 and my license in 2017. I have experience working in outpatient contract community clinics, crisis stabilization programs, and psychiatric hospitals. In 2022, I transitioned to working with only adult clients. I hope to provide a safe space for all my clients to process, heal, gain insight and awareness of limiting beliefs, and develop healthy coping skills to manage any challenges they are facing.

Hello! My name is Jay and I've been a licensed therapist in California since 2010. I have helped clients who are dealing with stress and anxiety, past and recent trauma, problems in their relationships, grief and loss, life transitions, and are struggling with self esteem and confidence. At this time, I work with adult individual clients via teletherapy. Before working as a counselor, I had another, very different career, as an engineer. Although I switched out of that profession, I greatly value the critical thinking and problem solving skills that I learned while studying and working as an engineer. I think that those skills make me a better therapist.

Hey there, I’m a licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my masters from University of New England with a focus in Individuals, families and groups. I’ve been practicing for 12 years. I specifically enjoy helping people find perspective through the voice of their pain. I think pain and discomfort can be our best teacher if we allow ourselves to look at it, this way.

Thank you for taking this step in your journey to be right here. I am a strengths-based, EMDR Trained LCSW with the decades long experience, tools, and expertise to launch you toward your unlimited life. With a whole lot of unconditional acceptance, a judgment free space, and a bit of humor, I am a provider who will hold your life story with awe and a strengths-based perspective every step of the way.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing as a clinician for over 18 years. My emphasis is on Anxiety, Depression and Perinatal Mental Health. My goal is to educate and create a greater sense of understanding about the purpose of our emotions with a support to clients to identify the cause of stressors, behavioral changes and dysfunctional thinking patterns.

I'm here to provide an encouraging experience where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly while working towards your goals. As a provider, I am supportive, validating, and focused on you. Within this framework, I am also honest and direct, qualities I find many people appreciate in a therapeutic relationship. I think of therapy as a tool that can get you to a new way of thinking or out of a rut. Therapy can also be hard work, but that doesn't mean it has to be a hard time. I've been in the field long enough to know how normal having problems is. The people I work with appreciate that therapy can be a place to laugh, cry, and sometimes both at the same time. Life is weird, but having help can help.

As a therapist specializing in serving individuals of color, I place great emphasis on promoting self-care and wellness among my clients. My goal is to assist my clients in navigating the intersectionality of their identities while prioritizing their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I provide a supportive environment for clients to explore their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and societal pressures. My approach includes empowering clients to create personalized self-care routines, coping strategies, and resilience-building techniques that are tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, I provide various resources and methods to assist clients in cultivating self-awareness, establishing boundaries, coping with pressure, and fostering a sense of equilibrium and contentment in their lives.

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in California. I received my Masters from DePaul University and have been practicing for 7 years. As a devoted Christian, wife and mother of four, my passion is helping others work through their issues, overcome obstacles and become the best version of themselves. My services focus on developing skills that help peel through and examine the complex layers that compose our daily lives in order to fully understand ourselves and the others around us. Treatment is a collaborative approach and I am dedicated to the process.

I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my approach is rooted in warmth, empathy, and respect for each client’s unique experience. I aim to create a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. I use an integrative approach, blending CBT, ACT, CPT, and Exposure Therapy. These evidence-based methods help address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Hi! I'm Cristina Marra, LMFT. I have 15+ years of experience. I like to help adults and adolescents deal with life's challenges. I help mostly with depression and/or anxiety. My therapeutic approach depends upon the presenting problem and client. The approaches I rely on the most are client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR, as needed. I enjoy helping people by listening in a way that the client feels heard and understood. This then allows for better work to happen as strategies and coping tools are developed. I enjoy working with many different types of issues as we are all complex. My communication style I believe in, an open, caring, honest, and direct style of communication. I don't believe any subject is off the table.

"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you – all of the expectations, all of the beliefs – and becoming who you are." - Rachel Naomi Remen Are you having challenges with finding the courage to seek healing that may keep you from becoming the best version of yourself? Hello! I am Lauresha Zinatae Hawkins, LCSW, MSW, MPH. I am independently contracted with Grow Therapy, while operating my private practice, Mental Wellness University, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc., in California. I am licensed in the state of California and Alaska. I recently received my Master of Public Health degree in 2025. With an acquired passion for serving and inspiring people from all walks of life, I assist with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma. I also serve the perinatal population, addressing perinatal mental health diagnoses, such as postpartum depression. Utilizing trust and rapport as the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, my approach to therapy comes with an eclectic style based on meeting the unique needs of who it is that I serve. I have 14 years of experience as a mental health professional in residential therapeutic treatment facilities, behavioral health outpatient clinic, as well as in psychiatric inpatient hospital setting, where trauma-informed care and advocacy is utilized to exemplify my passionate commitment to serving disadvantaged youth, adults, and elderly, including other vulnerable and at-risk populations such as dual-diagnoses.

My name is Monica Smith, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California, providing telehealth services to adults statewide. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to name a few. I help clients build awareness, develop coping skills, and improve their overall emotional well-being.

Psychotherapy can help you overcome many personal challenges, if you're willing to be honest and have an idea of how you'd like your life to be different. I've been a therapist for many years, working with diverse persons in New York and California. I use a variety of modalities including classic insight-oriented therapy, supportive therapy, CBT techniques, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I also work with couples and families.

Hi, I’m Fabiola Serrano, a first-generation Latina and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I help people who are navigating anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and relationship struggles—especially those who often feel overwhelmed by strong emotions. My approach blends evidence-based tools like CBT and DBT with compassion and cultural sensitivity. Together, we’ll work on building emotional balance, confidence, and more meaningful connections in your life.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently eligible to see Telehealth clients in California and Florida. I have been practicing Holistic Psychotherapy in my private practice for 7 years specializing in Hypnotherapy and trauma resolution. I assist adults to navigate life transitions such as grief, heartbreak, career changes, healing from trauma or outdated versions of themselves, so they can feel more free and present in everyday life.

Hi! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Los Angeles, California servicing clients statewide via telehealth. I have over five years of experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I help individuals/couples/families process hardships in their lives and obtain the tools needed to become the best version of themselves. Looking for a therapist is a great first step towards change. Give me a call to see if I am a good fit to support your journey!

I am a Licensed Clinician in California, with over three decades of clinical experience. I specialize in culturally competent, Christian-integrated, strength-based therapy. My approach combines Biblical principles, Christian values, wisdom, and clinical expertise to support those seeking healing through a holistic and compassionate framework. I offer culturally competent therapeutic interventions, respecting all cultures and emphasizing the client's strengths as the foundation for overcoming challenges.

Welcome, I'm Shirell Bunch-Lipscomb, a mother of 4 and a grandmother to 3 children. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is committed to helping individuals and families overcome various challenges and heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. My mission is to help you build stronger, more connected relationships while fostering emotional growth and resilience. My passion is also working with the youth populations and help guide them to become stronger individuals.

Hello! My name is Melissa (she/her pronouns) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the profession for 10 years. In Monterey County, I have historically served children and their families. I have treated individuals from various backgrounds and specialize in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, identity/gender exploration, trauma, and adversity. I believe that therapy can serve you in a multitude of ways and it's your choice on how you would like to navigate this journey. In your sessions, I would support you with mental health tools and a safe and non-judgmental space to explore, process, and learn from your experiences.

Hello and welcome - I'm so glad you're here My name is Liliana Ponce, and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I was born in the United States and raised in Mexico, and I bring a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach to my practice. I hold Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). With over fifteen years of experience, I specialize in supporting children, teens, young adults, and families through life's transitions and challenges. For the past seven years, I have provided direct mental health services using evidence-based practices that empower folks to grow, heal, and become the best versions of themselves.

I'm a mother to young adults and married for over two+ decades with a professional background and MBA. I understand the complexities of dating, couple hood, family life, parenting, and professional challenges. I specialize in couples therapy & individual therapy for adults. At this time I am taking on new (adult) clients for individual therapy with insurance. I see couples with cash-pay options only.

Hello, my name is Chandra Elizabeth Hines and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in California. I specialize in supporting women experiencing infertility and new mothers adjusting to motherhood. With both personal and professional experience, I understand the deep impact these life stages can have on your sense of self, relationships and overall well-being. I provide a compassionate non-judgemental space where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and develop skills to navigate the unique challenges you are facing. My approach blends psychodynamic and somatic therapy to help clients explore the deeper emotional patterns impacting their experience while also connecting to the wisdom of their body.

Kaiser client you need a referral from Kaiser first then Kaiser will send you a link to book a session with me. I specialized in treating grief, anxiety depression, anger issues, relationship issues, and behavioral disorders. Are you experiencing anxiety? Is this impacting your relationships and overall happiness? Depression manifests various forms but is among the most common issues faced by individuals today. If you do find a time in your schedule, please contact me to see if I can adjust my availability

Hi there! I'm Justin Sunseri, a therapist from California. I've spent over 17 years helping people work through mental health challenges and recover from trauma. My passion is empowering those stuck in survival mode - flight, fight, shutdown, or freeze. By tapping into the body's natural wisdom, I guide people to feel safer and more grounded so they can rediscover their most authentic, joyful selves. I support individuals, couples, and families on this transformative journey with compassion and expertise. I'm deeply inspired by cutting-edge research like the Polyvagal Theory and love blending science with heart. Let me know if you'd like to explore working together!

Welcome! I'm Rocio Diaz, Marriage and Family Therapist. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

Do you feel lost, hopeless, or stuck? Do you find yourself worried and self-conscious? Are you experiencing conflict with family members, co-workers, or other important relationships in your life? Are you a parent wanting extra support? You are not alone. My style is nurturing, kind, empathetic, and patient. I am here to establish a safe environment where you will be respected, heard, and validated. Therapy sessions are tailored to your individual needs. I meet clients where they are at and work at their pace to achieve hope, empowerment, and growth. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience helping teens and adults overcome struggles, achieve transformation, and live a meaningful life. I developed a passion early on for working with children and adolescents on the autism spectrum and supporting parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions and interpersonal relationships.

As a seasoned therapist with nearly 20 years of consecutive licensing across multiple states, I specialize in a diverse array of client issues, including men's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, aging and chronic illness challenges, sexual addiction, trauma and PTSD, anger management, clinical depression, and anxiety. My approach is built on an affirming and caring nature, allowing clients to feel safe and understood in our collaborative work. I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including person-centered therapy, CBT, and ACT, alongside group therapy, to tailor my interventions to each individual’s unique needs. My strong listening and speaking skills facilitate deep connections with clients, empowering them to explore their struggles, find meaning, and ultimately create positive changes in their lives. The impact of my work is reflected in the growth and resilience of my clients, as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and fulfillment.

My approach to therapy is solution-focused, drawing on training in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing). I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable exploring your experiences and working toward what matters most to you—whether that’s finding relief from symptoms or managing life’s daily stressors. I also have extensive experience working with police, dispatchers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other first responders, as well as members of the armed forces, and I understand the unique challenges that come with those roles.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia focused on providing services to individuals and families. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work and a PhD. in Social Work: Policy, Planning and Administration and have over 10 years of experience providing clinical services to children, teens and families. The onset of my career began with helping children and families within a community mental health setting as well as those involved in the child welfare system. My clients have a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I've also worked with clients who have experienced trauma and abuse. I believe in a humanistic, person-centered, cognitive behavioral approach to therapy where the focus is on helping clients develop a stronger sense of self within a non-judgmental therapeutic setting. I am a proponent in addressing factors that contribute to the healing of the spirit, mind and body. I am happy that you have taken the first step in your healing process and I look forward to working with you.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I consider myself to be a focused, inspired, compassionate, curious, solution-oriented, somatic, holistic, client-centered therapist. Providing the kind of support, understanding, and insights that give my clients the hope, motivation, and aha moments to elevate their self experience and personal healing to the next level. My intention is to provide the best and most consistent service to each person I have the privilege to meet.

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.

Welcome to therapy I am excited to embark on this journey with you. It takes courage to seek therapy, and you should be proud of yourself for taking this step towards healing and growth. A little about me: my name is Nicole. I've been in private practice for more than 5 years. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from San Jose State University. During graduate school, I completed an internship with former foster youth and and worked as a social worker at Stanford Children's Hospital in the oncology and stem cell transplant center. I spent some time working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at a local hospital as well as hospice. I am now the interim Manager of a Behavioral Health Department. I continue to do therapy because I truly love connecting with people who are looking to grow and enrich their lives. During our sessions, I will listen attentively and non-judgmentally to what you have to say. I will ask thought-provoking questions and offer insights and feedback to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation. Most importantly, I will be here to support you, encourage you, and help you build the confidence and resilience needed to achieve your goals. Remember, therapy is a collaborative effort, and your active participation and honesty will be crucial to your success. You’ve come this far in finding a therapist, so you’re already taking the right steps in embracing change. I believe in your ability to make meaningful changes in your life and look forward to working with you. Let’s get started!

Hello, I am Dr. Andy Davis. I have been involved in the mental health field for more than 18 years, 13 years of which I've practiced as a licensed psychologist both in the U.S. Air Force and in private practice. I have a varied experience helping those with depression, PTSD, anxiety and stress, grief, personality disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can discuss and work through any issues they feel are important.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. My approach to therapy is person-centered and psychodynamic, and I use various modalities to help people become more connected to their true selves. My goal is to offer a supportive environment where people can fully express themselves, gain insight, and take steps toward healing and personal growth. In therapy, I work with people to explore, make sense of, and identify how their upbringing may be contributing to problems in living. This awareness is often a catalyst for positive change. I also use mindfulness-based CBT to help people become aware of and challenge thoughts that aren’t true and are contributing to depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

My name is Jenniffer Mogrovejo, LMFT based in California. I have 18 years' experience as a psychotherapist. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. I also have many years of experience working with special needs parents/families navigating their child's severe mental illness diagnosis. I am passionate about helping my clients find peace, healing and acceptance through building of important skills and fortifying their support system.

I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California, offering telehealth services to clients statewide. I work with adults who are ready to take an honest look at their lives and make intentional changes. My areas of focus include anxiety, life transitions, depression, and boundary-setting. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and other modalities based on each client’s needs. While we may reflect on past experiences to gain insight, the focus is on using those insights to make better choices and set higher standards for your future.

I’m a Licensed Psychotherapist with a doctoral degree in Psychotherapy, along with certifications in Hypnotherapy and Creativity Coaching. I offer a warm, collaborative space where healing, self-discovery, and growth are supported through a blend of mindfulness, somatic awareness, and creative exploration. I also draw on archetypal psychology and spirituality to support you in becoming more aware of unconscious patterns. My approach is grounded, heart-centered, and tailored to each person’s unique path.

Hi, my name is Gerald Anderson. I am a licensed Therapist in California, an LMFT. I have worked as a therapist for a long time. Helping people from many diverse back grounds. I have worked with couples, individuals, and children, helping them to have the support and the tools to process and work through their problems, marital conflicts. I have also worked with drug involved individuals, who are in recovery and I am familiar with the 12 step process.

I specialize in trauma recovery (including complex PTSD, DID, social traumas, domestic violence, and more). I am also adept at serving neurodivergent folks, folks with mood disorders, and those struggling with grief. I am also comfortable working with folks with eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, phobias, and serious mental illnesses. I believe in inclusion, creating safe spaces, and client centered approaches that develop a sense of empowerment and confidence.

Hi, I’m Tishawna Lewis, LMFT. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Georgia, and Texas with a passion for helping people heal, grow, and reconnect with their strengths. I work with adults and adolescents navigating anxiety, trauma, OCD, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're starting therapy for the first time or returning after a break, I offer a safe, affirming space where meaningful change can begin.

Hello, I am Luis Martinez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have been serving my community helping families and individuals for over 8 years. Whether it's helping people with simple day to day stressors or deeper rooted concerns, there's an approach and solution to the problem. Together we can focus on building strengths and help facilitate positive change to help empower you moving forward in your life.

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.