Therapists in California

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read about me. My name is Emily Cortez and I am an LMFT in CA. It is my hope to connect with you in a warm, supportive space to help process and tackle the many challenges that life throws at us. I have been practicing in the field going on 5 years now and have experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjustment/life transitions, trauma, and grief/loss.

Hello, thank you for visiting my Grow Therapy Page. Finding a good fit in a therapist can take effort and time. Congratulations on beginning the process. As your therapist I will provide a supportive non-judgmental and confidential space for you begin your healing. I work with clients on their chosen goals. In order to create a safe space we might work on grounding, mindfulness and other resources in the beginning. My speciality is working with people who have experienced trauma/traumas in their lives. Trauma varies in severity and all type of trauma can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am a highly skilled Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner. I also am trained in many other therapy techniques. I also proved treatment for depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and other mood disorders.

Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. I specialize in using EMDR, CBT, and DBT techniques to help clients heal from trauma, manage emotions, and build resilience. My approach is collaborative, empowering clients to take an active role in their healing journey. I believe therapy should be a safe and supportive space where therapy participants feel heard, understood, and valued. Together, we work toward creating lasting change, building healthier relationships, and fostering greater self-acceptance.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I work with clients navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and complex family dynamics, always honoring their cultural background and personal story. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, I help individuals build resilience, gain insight, and develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and lead more empowered lives.

Hi. I'm an old white lady with years of experience living on this earth. I want to share what I've learned with you and assist you to recover from trauma, abuse, and attachment dysregulation. I'm culturally competent and have specific experience working with people who are first-generation Americans who are walking the line between two cultures, learning how to integrate all their parts into a cohesive whole.

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 have been providing social services for the last thirty years and have learned that at times we all need some support as life happens. I have also learned that people have benefited from being heard, provided emotional support, tools and greater understanding of solutions to unique challenges. It would be my honor to partner with you in your wellness journey.

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 am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of clinical experience. I have worked in County Mental, Substance Abuse, and Health Care settings with a wide range of individuals throughout the age spectrum. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. It takes courage and strength to reach out, yet it is the beginning of the healing process. I work from a client-centered whole-person approach that draws on your strengths to collaborate with you to bring about healing. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, struggle to stay focused, not being able to complete tasks, unable to find time to enjoy the things you like to do, and/or struggling with relationships; now is the time to take that step. Let's work together to create solutions to bring about a better quality of life. Today is the day to change your tomorrow.

Let’s face it—life can be challenging, and it often throws us curveballs we never saw coming. Hi, I’m Jennifer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Whether you’re navigating the painful journey of infertility, grieving the loss of a pregnancy, working to strengthen or repair your relationship with your significant other, or trying to balance your identity as a new parent, I’m here to help.

I choose to practice trauma-informed care because intention and corrective experiences are important aspects of healing. I value helping clients identify strategies they can apply towards stressors that are impacting their lives in order to experience relief from suffering, develop healthy skills, and improve confidence. I enjoy assisting clients in identifying new ways of coping, communicating, and finding sustainable solutions.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, and I’m passionate about helping people heal, grow, and rediscover their strength. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and you don’t have to go through those moments alone. My goal is to offer a safe, compassionate space where you can breathe, be yourself, and begin creating the change you want to see. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, infertility, pre- and post-partum challenges, substance use, and the unique experiences of first responders, active military, and veterans. Through my work in private practice, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and hospitals, I’ve learned that everyone’s journey is different and that healing happens when we feel truly understood and supported. In our sessions, I take a collaborative and empowering approach. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, uncover your inner strengths, and build tools to help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. I believe therapy should feel like a partnership, one that honors your story, celebrates your resilience, and helps you move toward lasting growth and balance. Whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, healing from trauma, or simply wanting to reconnect with yourself, I’m here to walk alongside you. You deserve to feel grounded, hopeful, and at peace — and I’d be honored to support you on that path.

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 compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor dedicated to promoting healing and growth through a personalized, multidisciplinary approach. Understanding that each individual is unique, I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet the specific needs of my clients, recognizing that what works for one may not apply to all. I place a strong emphasis on building a trusting rapport and establishing a collaborative therapeutic alliance, where we work together to create lasting change. I firmly believe that every person has the potential to shape and develop the life they envision, and my role is to guide and support them in this process.

Greetings! I'm an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has devoted my career to helping others successfully manage mental distress and make meaning of their painful experiences. Since graduating from UCLA with my MSW, I have provided compassionate trauma-informed therapy, as well as supervised and trained a large number of other mental health professionals. Through a collaborative partnership, I have witnessed clients heal and grow!

With nearly a decade of experience supporting adults, I bring a holistic, trauma-informed lens to therapy—creating a space where you’re invited to (re)discover your true nature and build genuine confidence. I’m a certified mindfulness meditation teacher, and I weave presence and curiosity into every session. My goal is to foster a trusting, collaborative relationship so we can explore difficult thoughts, complex emotions, and life’s challenges together, with care and clarity

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been practicing for 15 years. In the past 7 years, I have engaged in doing short-term, goal-oriented therapy with adults. I have always thought that individuals (especially adults that seek out therapy willfully) have in them the potentials to rethink their situation and work towards resolving their concerns when provided the appropriate tools allowing them to clearly see and identify what their objective is at that time.

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem. I bring a compassionate, culturally informed approach that honors diverse experiences, particularly within LGBTQ+ communities. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients explore self-love, address social anxiety, process difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming space where individuals can explore their identities, relationships, and life purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support clients through a wide range of experiences—from workplace stress and relationship dynamics to personal transformation and healing from past challenges. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and tailored to each individual's unique journey.

My name is Jacob Lapides and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and I have been in this field for over 10 years now. I am a Holistic therapist who likes to focus on healing an individual from all aspects including mind-body wellness. I bring an eclectic skill set of many different therapeutic approaches and orientations so that I can use different techniques to find the best tools and interventions to help and support whoever I am working with.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

WELOME! So glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the state of California. I received my Master of Social Work from California State University Bakersfield in 2020 and have been practicing for over 3 years. I have dedicated over a decade to Community Mental Health and helping individuals with severe mental health disorders/illness obtain a better quality of life. My unique style, life experiences, and approach provide a genuine connection.

Hi there, I'm Gut (Goot)! Thanks for looking at my profile, "the journey of 1000 miles begins with one step". I am a Veteran looking to assist others with their own "1000" mile journey. My approach I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals on their perspective journeys. I utilize Solution Focused Brief Therapy primarily with couples. My focus I have found that my style and approach work well with individuals who prefer a straightforward, assertive approach. My communication style is assertive, direct, with a curious undertone to solicit perspective. My journey in mental healthcare I wanted to assist with preventing Veteran suicides. My goals for you My goal is not that of a pastor; I do not want you to keep coming back, but to take what we have learned and continue the journey.

Hello, I'm Dr. Michael Murray, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing virtual counseling in California and Washington. My approach to therapy is warm, conversational, and collaborative, creating a space for genuine connection and nonjudgmental support. Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), existential therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI), I help clients develop psychological flexibility, explore identity and purpose, and tap into their own motivation for change. Rather than focusing on eliminating discomfort, I guide clients in accepting difficult emotions, unhooking from unhelpful thought patterns, and taking meaningful action aligned with their values. Together, we cultivate self-compassion, new perspectives, and practical steps toward a fulfilling, authentic life.

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! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work full time with veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I see clients in the evenings or weekends. I enjoy helping clients to navigate life changes, process feelings, and learn healthy coping strategies. Sessions with me will be comfortable, relaxed and productive. I see California clients only. I look forward to working with you!

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from San Francisco State University with an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. I have recently been certified by the Cognitive Behavioral Institute to offer ERPT (Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD). I have over 20 years of experience working with a very diverse range of folks (women, men, the LGBTQ community, those living with HIV,People of Color, those dealing with substance issues). I enjoy working with people who are seeking a caring, compassionate, understanding person who listens and offers a hand up while they battle back against depression and anxiety. I also enjoy supporting people who are struggling with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and employ a powerful tool (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy) that is clinically shown to greatly reduce OCD symptoms.

I am an experienced Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with a strong focus on helping high school aged and older individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and trauma/PTSD. With eight years of practice, I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to create a safe space for clients to explore their concerns and foster healing and growth to become the best versions of themselves.

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.

Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.

Benzion is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their mental health journey. He holds a Master of Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary, graduating in 2007. Benzion believes in a holistic approach to care, building a trusting and collaborative relationship with each client to foster hope and lasting change. "I am humbled by the courage and vulnerability my clients display every day. I am honored by the privilege of being with you in your most intimate places to develop trust and build hope for the future. Thank you for considering the journey of building a better future with me."

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduated with my Masters from the University of Southern California in 2014. I work with people who are struggling with their self identity due to anxiety and depression. I lead with understanding and commitment toward seeing the fullness of my clients. I enjoy working with clients to see the dualities that exist within our world in order to help them meet their goals.

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.

Hi, I am Boris. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been practicing for the past 7 years. In your unique life journey, you have navigated a path full of diverse experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Your story is a testament to your resilience and the growth that has emerged from your personal adventures. Throughout your life, you have embraced the power of self-discovery, learning, and transformation. Your narrative highlights your individual strengths and the lessons you've gathered along the way, shaping the remarkable person you've become today. It is your story, and I am here to listen, support, and help you explore your aspirations, identify your goals, and work together to create a future chapter that aligns with your desires and values.

Life can bring us challenges that feel overwhelming. As a result, you may find yourself feeling anxious, irritable, or maybe even struggling in managing your day to day life activities. If you're looking to make some changes in your life, then therapy is the perfect place to start. As an integrative client-centered therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the needs of my client. You are unique and so is your journey toward healing. My job is to be flexible to your needs as we work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.

Hello! My name is Brenda and I am a licensed clinical social worker. As a dedicated and empathetic mental health professional with over 7 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate their emotional and psychological challenges. My journey into therapy began with a profound personal interest in understanding human behavior and a desire to support others in their pursuit of mental well-being.

Hello, My name is Jackie. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I'm dedicated to supporting my clients to navigate life challenges, experience emotional healing, and an improved quality of life. I believe in taking time to get to know you, and understand your world view and life experiences. I have extensive experience assisting clients in managing and reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics. I also offer therapy in Spanish language.

Hello, my name is Allie Gubin, I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in supporting people navigating unforeseen and unwelcome change. Some of the common emotional experiences of the people whom I serve include coping with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, and loss. My background is with people impacted by cancer. I have worked on the east and west coasts in hospitals and outpatient clinical settings. A life-threatening illness can impact overall quality of life including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My area of interest is to support people who are facing various life transitions and stressors – whether it be a conflict in a relationship, a concern at work, or worries about the future. It is completely “normal” not to know exactly what it is that brings you to therapy, to know what it is that you are feeling, or what, if anything, you would like to be different in your life. With an open mind and some patience, together, we can explore what matters most to you, and what might promote a sense of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.

Hello there! I am Jaclyn Feeling overwhelmed? Burnt out? Unheard and misunderstood? Please, come sit with me. Allow me to create an environment that listens attentively and actively shifts to your ever-changing needs. I want to hear YOUR story, walk with you through the parts that are most painful and highlight the qualities that make you truly unique. Without judgment or bias of your past or what you’ve been through, I want to help you reconnect with your strengths and remind you of your potential. We all deserve the right to live the quality of life of our choosing and to assist you through that journey would be my honor. Allow me to help you find your voice, discover the tools most comfortable for your needs and let’s get this healing journey started! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with clients with co-occurring disorders including developmental disabilities, addiction, depression, and bi-polar disorder. I have also worked with loved ones who have family members who struggle with co-occurring disorders.

The pressures of the modern world seem never ending, particularly when you deal with an untreated or difficult to treat mental health or substance use issue. I specialize in certain mental health diagnoses including personality disorders, postpartum issues, depression/anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation. I am prepared to assist you in offering helpful coping strategies, understanding the psychology behind your experiences/symptoms, processing feelings and thoughts, and gaining better traction on your life. My specialty is in mental health and substance use (dual diagnosis). I am DBT certified. I have worked with individuals impacted by cycles of trauma, violence, and substances in various settings including psychiatric hospitals, county jail, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient clinics. My mission? Help people THRIVE and be SEEN/HEARD despite these circumstances. I understand that both making sense of the issue(s) at hand and reaching out is incredibly anxiety producing. What I provide is a safe and warm space where you can explore your needs, current feelings, history, and goals. You have the power to stop fighting what is out of your control, and harness your power to control what is just within your grasp.

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.

I am a dedicated Licensed Professional in Private Practice in the Los Angeles area, with over 20 years of direct counseling experience. I provide high-quality services aimed at helping clients achieve a balanced perspective on their mental health. My goal is to assist clients in developing the skills needed to maintain emotional well-being through life's challenges. Ultimately, my primary aim is to enhance the overall well-being and mental health of my clients.

Hello and Welcome! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have received my Masters and Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology. I help adults and children struggling with mental health concerns and addictions to improve various aspects of their life, such as interpersonal relationships, and employment. I offer a safe, non-judgemental environment where a person can be themself.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Rutgers University. I have experience working with teens, and adult dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem, self -harm, ADHD, life changes and other challenges. I specialize in working with teens, women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, negative self-image and trauma. I work with clients to help them discover their true self. I will meet you where you are in your journey, and will you facilitate the changes you need to reach your fullest potential. If your tired of your emotional rollercoaster consider coming to see me.

Hi, My name is Rhonda David and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have over 30 years of experience and knowledge. My goal is to really listen to my client's needs and offer a safe non-judgmental supportive environment to help them find solutions to their inner struggles and in their relationships. I have a high satisfaction rate. My common approaches to therapy are self-understanding, understanding of others, self-acceptance and empowerment to help clients develop and initiate solutions for their lives and relationships that bring them satisfaction and deep happiness.

Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Ester Raha, and I’m a licensed therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field, including the past 7 years as a practicing therapist. My journey in this profession has been shaped by both my personal experiences as a female veteran and mother, a trauma survivor, and my passion for supporting others through life’s challenges.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an integrative approach to my work. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral therapy, anxiety, grief, art therapy, stress management, mindfulness and guided imagery. I have a collaborative client-centered approach, which is warm, safe, empathetic and non-judgmental. I help you discover your own insight, cultivate strengths and find meaning and purpose for a more balanced life.

I have been in the field of mental health for 29 years. My goal as a therapist is to help you achieve ultimate happiness and peace in your life. As human beings we can not go back and change our past but we can find the tools that can help us live our lives fully and find the ways to use our full potential. I will listen to you and will try my best to support you in finding the path to happiness by practicing and using the tools and methods that are helpful and tangible.