Therapists in California

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in Florida and California. I graduated from Pace University and have been practicing as a clinician for 24 years. I am a strengths-based clinician with extensive training and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy. The decision to seek therapy can be hard and intimidating. My goal is to provide a space for exploration, reflection and change.

Welcome! I'm Mimi (Miyoung) 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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help adults struggling with stress and mental health issues become the best versions of themselves. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and helping them feel better and reach their goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who offers individuals, adults, geriatric populations in a general private practice setting in Texas & California. My practice offers a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment. I focus on adult care including women’s issues, career/educational issues, interpersonal communication, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I like to do therapy in an “eclectic” manner, drawing on cognitive-behavioral, narrative, spirituality, solution-focused, and others.

Hi there! I’m Tracy Birkinbine, a Licensed Professional Counselor with two decades of experience helping people feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more like themselves again. I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and all the curveballs that life tends to throw, whether it’s a major life transition or just that nagging feeling of being stuck. I also have a special place in my heart for those dealing with infertility, adoption, and the rollercoaster of parenting (I’ve been there, in more ways than one — through infertility, adoption, biology, and stepfamily life). Clients often tell me I’m easy to talk to, down-to-earth, and real. That’s exactly what I strive for: a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can show up just as you are. I take a collaborative, practical approach to therapy using tools from CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused work, always tailored to what you need. I’m LGBTQIA+ affirming and deeply committed to inclusivity. My goal is for you to feel safe, heard, and empowered, whether we’re tackling a lifelong struggle or just trying to get through a tough season. If you’re feeling nervous about starting therapy, know that you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place!

I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups. I specialize in helping clients coping with anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression. I'm licensed in both California and Georgia and hold additional certification as a Certified Grief Informed Professional. My therapeutic approach is to provide client-centered, collaborative treatment planning in order to build therapeutic alliance with clients through collaborative support, encouragement, and validation.

As a **licensed marriage and family therapist** with 15 years of experience, I've had the opportunity to work with diverse clients, from individuals as young as three to adults of all ages, as well as couples and families. I began my career in substance abuse counseling and DUI classes. Over the years, I’ve specialized in **talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy**, with a focus on helping clients resolve **unresolved trauma**. I'm also trained in **Parent-Child Interaction Therapy** and can provide these services via telehealth. Most recently, I spent six years as the **Behavioral Health Program Director** for a foster agency in California. This role was incredibly rewarding and allowed me to work with children in foster care, their biological and foster parents, and adoptive families. Although I loved my work as a director, I truly missed the hands-on experience of working directly with individuals and families in a therapeutic setting, which is why I am back in private practice.

My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.

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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a decade of experience specializing in treating individuals struggling with substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I work with dual-diagnosis clients, where I provide therapy to clients facing complex challenges, including addiction, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and motivational interviewing, helping clients uncover the underlying emotional and relational patterns that contribute to their struggles.

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 Carol Metcalf-Roth, LMFT, and I have been working with clients for 21 years as a Licensed Marriage Therapist. My career history includes progressive experience as a Therapist, Director of Social Services, and Clinical Supervisor, working in agency services, hospitals and private practice. I am also a licensed Military Family Life Counselor.

Greetings to You! I am Bethany and am thankful you have made the decision to live your most phenomenal life! Do you feel utterly lost, stuck or even misunderstood? Do you feel like you know what to do but don't have the will-power or tools to execute it? I help marginalized individuals identify how to show up as their most authentic selves and get the life they deserve. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, racism, transphobia or addiction, I'm here to help and comfort. Seeking therapy can feel unnerving but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal, grow, try on new perspectivesand just BE. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together and get you to the next level of your healing journey!

I get satisfaction from being a voice of reasoning for others through my genuineness. I consider this a life purpose for me. I am driven by a deep desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling with their mental well-being. I believe in providing a safe space with a non-judgmental stance while supporting the patient through his or her emotional well-being and encouraging autonomy.

Dear Prospective Client, My name is Lina Rappoport, LMFT. I have been licensed since 2013. Originally from Ukraine I came to the US more than 20 years ago. I love to work with pre-teens, teens, their parents, and adults. I love meeting people from all around the world and I connect well with different cultures and ages. In me you will find compassionate, caring, and respectful individual. I will take time to listen and together we will create a plan of action to help you feel better. We all need support these days, so don't hesitate to reach out. I can't wait to meet you. Take care.

Hi there and great job on taking that first step in considering if therapy is right for you. I invite you to come with me on a journey of your own choosing where we will walk together in darkness to find the light you’ve been seeking. Whether it’s life’s little annoying stressors or more complex issues, as a trauma survivor myself, I know firsthand what this is like and wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Whether you choose me or another therapist, make the choice to just give it a try. Sometimes all you need is another person to hold the light while you do the work you need to heal.

My name is Judy Jordan and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years years of professional experience in counseling with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I took an evening course in Psychology 5 when starting school, and by the end of it , I knew I wanted to become a therapist. I was drawn to understanding people on a deeper level and helping them through their struggles. With support from my dad, I left my job and went back to school starting from scratch. I loved every minute of learning and felt more certain with each class that I was on the right path. My dedication paid off...I earned straight A's and received the Academic Achievement Award in Psychology. More importantly I found a sense of purpose in supporting others on their mental health journeys.

Hello. my name is Diane Gibbs and i have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2008. I have worked inpatient and outpatient mental health. I am Rogerian trained, which means i have awareness of my boundaries and the clts boundaries. I am clt centered, being aware of my transference in the therapy relationship; often using the transference for clt growth. I am humanistic, which means any one of us can experience disturbance of mood, thought, or emotion; simply because we are human. As a clt centered therapist my role is to hold a mirror up as to allow the clt to witness their experience and offer reccomendations for tx plan. Also, empowering the clt to connect and use their strengths; support, spirituality or agnostic beliefs. I have used various modality interventions including meditation, visualization, and exposure acclimation. I have worked with 5 yo to 80+ yr old. My experience is broad, from post partum to end of life issues and many life stages in between. Whether its anxiety or depression. From bipolar to ocd or schizophrenia; i work at creating a safe environment where boundaries are clear and the clt feels free to discuss their issues in safety and privacy.

Fearful, hopeless, or uncomfortable with yourself or your relationships. Pain is unavoidable, but I can help you carry that burden as we work towards solutions together. For 30 years , I worked with both children and adults .My aim is to create a nonjudgmental supportive space as we navigate your concerns and fears to find safe , secure and comfortable solutions

Hello! My name is Melissa Bautista and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. In life, different circumstances can arise that can affect our mental health. Although these circumstances may be inevitable, I would like to be able to be a resource to help you during those times. I work with adolescents and adults. I have had the opportunity to work with diverse populations and diagnoses. I would like to be a part of your first steps toward getting back to a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step, I will provide a safe space for you and I am here to support you.

I help people explore what they really want in this life, and whether their intentions are consciously aligned with their actions. I am here to help you get to know who you are, what you want to do, and your options for how to get out of your own way. I am a spiritual person and if you would like your spiritual beliefs incorporated into your treatment, please let me know. Things I believe: I believe feelings and emotions are clues to solving the riddle of You. I believe no feeling or emotion is “bad.” I believe anger, for example, can be utilized as fuel, and can be consciously channeled into intentional, value-based action. I believe we can feel the feelings, and act on the facts. I believe integrity is the recipe for healthy self esteem. I believe: Your beliefs + your values + aligned actions OR genuine and “active “ apology = integrity. I believe an “active apology” includes what should have been different and/or what will be different in the future. I believe very few humans know how to identify their emotions and emotional needs. I believe even fewer know how to communicate their needs effectively. I believe emotional literacy, emotion regulation, and communication skills are tools that every human needs to successfully function in this world. I believe conflict can be an opportunity for growth, and a deeper and stronger connection, when all parties are willing to learn healthy and effective ways of communicating with one another. I believe no individual is “the problem” and is instead an important alert that the system in which they live has problems. I believe community is the answer to a lot of problems in our current society. I believe empathy is how we can heal each other.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who believes in the power of change, all you need are the right tools. I have invested in earning additional certificates to ensure that I am equipped to support you to meet, and surpass, your goals. I am a registered Art Therapist, EMDR and Energy Psychology practitioner. After a thorough assessment and creation of a care plan, together we can work towards creating the life you've dreamed of, embracing who you are and moving through the traumas that have held you back. As a therapist, I believe in possibilities. Anything is possible when you are willing to do the work. Are you ready to go beyond? Beyond your ideas or conclusions of what you can create. Together, we will go there.

Hi. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in California. I have extensive training and clinical experience in trauma therapies. My perspective is that childhood trauma has a lifelong impact on the ability of people to like, accept, and have compassion for themselves; to feel, express, and regulate their emotions; to be vulnerable, honest, and communicative in relationships; to take risks at work and in relationships; and to find meaning, satisfaction, and joy in life. My psychotherapy practice exists to help individual adults (18 years +) who are struggling with the consequences of childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, prolonged grief, and existential issues such as identity, authenticity, aging, death, and meaning/purpose in life. I am comfortable working with males, females, young adults, middle aged adults, and older adults.

My name is Shawna Reynolds, and I have been in the social work field for 20 years, and the clinical field for over 15 years now. I was drawn to social work to specifically to help provide a sense of safety, security and stability for youth and families. I bring that same sense of safety, security and stability to my Therapy Practice where using a variety of CBT and TFCBT different modalities I now help adult clients identify areas of self-improvement so that they can make positive behavioral changes in their lives to experience more positive pleasurable emotions such as excitement, happiness and a healthy self-concept.

Jahthaime Smith MS, is a licensed counselor who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Ecological Theory to help clients identify thinking patterns and societal influences contributing to imbalance. Originally from NYC, this counselor brings his diverse spiritual, cultural, and mental cultivation to therapy. I invite you to Therapy at Evergreen Telecounseling! This agency specializes in how culture, society, and the environment affects our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

I am a clinical psychologist with 40+ years of experience in a major San Francisco Medical Center and in private practice. I have worked with all age groups with a wide range of psychological issues. I have a background in neuropsychology and psychodynamic treatment. I have worked with the geriatric population and I am very familiar the issues of aging.

Hi! I am an LMFT based in California, more specifically the Bay Area. I am a father of two beautiful girls (#girldad), an avid golfer, and blackbelt in Brazilian Jiujitsu. I have been working in mental health and performance coaching for over 10 years. My passion is to help athletes and their parents find strategies to balance the demands of their sport and other areas of their life that they may be struggling with. I especially love working with fathers trying to engage their fatherhood in new ways.

My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of California State University in Bakersfield. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, and relationships issues.

Are you hesitating about seeing a therapist? Let me help change your mind about attending therapy and unlock your full potential for your life. Allow me the opportunity to assist with developing the skills needed to navigate life without the presence of mental health issues. I am a culturally competent therapist who has over 10 years of experience in the field and is truly passionate about helping people. My clients describe me as upfront, direct, and honest in my approach. I specialize in working with children, youth adults, adults and families. I am authentic and inspiring to parents who may feel lost when dealing with their children who are making poor decisions or displaying risky behaviors. I have a special way of working with the most challenging youth and young adults, helping them develop positive life goals, a sense of personal accountability and seeing the value in building a happy and healthy lifestyle. Two fun facts about me are that I love dogs and enjoy working out as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Welcome to my practice. I'm Margaret Hoyne Brown, LMFT, a seasoned clinician with rich life experience, dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space for your personal growth and healing journey. With a blend of authentic empathy, good humor, and imaginative yet pragmatic approaches, I tailor therapy sessions to suit your unique needs. I specialize in evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Oriented Therapy, which have been proven to deliver optimal clinical results and foster rapid improvement. By integrating a humanistic approach and Adlerian style, I create sessions intending to make you feel supported and empowered to address your concerns to live with more joy and increased meaning. Drawing from my rich life experiences, I work to understand the complexities of life's journey and bring a deep commitment to social awareness and justice to our work together. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, or other challenges, I'm here to guide you toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and fulfillment. As a lifelong learner and advocate for staying current with the latest therapeutic techniques, I prioritize attending workshops and collaborating with colleagues to ensure I'm equipped with the most effective approaches to therapy. Additionally, staying abreast of the social climate enables me to understand the world you inhabit. Together, we'll navigate your challenges with empathy, insight, and the most relevant healing tools available.

My name is Sheilly Arora, and I am a practicing psychologist for almost 20 years. I love what I do and find it a privilege to be of help to others. I am fluent in several Evidence Based treatments including and not limited to treatments for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia and PTSD. While originally from the East coast, I did both my internship and post-doctoral training in California. I have been here ever since and feel lucky to be able to call California my home.

*ONLY accepting female clients at this time * Hello! I'm Jessica Milgrome, a licensed mental health clinician with 10 years of experience, a certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor. My approach centers on making therapy the least stressful part of your life. I create a supportive, relaxed environment with a modern, casual style, often incorporating humor. I can direct sessions or simply listen, based on your needs, and appreciate when clients express whether they seek guidance, feedback, or just want to vent. I work with clients facing various concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and relationship issues like breakups, emotional abuse, narcissistic abuse/trauma and relationship conflicts. I also manage severe mental health conditions such as psychosis. Additionally, I focus on developing interpersonal relationships and provide practical support with job placement and interview skills, aiding career transitions and professional growth. I guide clients in cultivating self-love and forgiveness, believing these are crucial for emotional healing and personal growth. My holistic approach addresses both emotional and practical aspects of life to help achieve balance and fulfillment. To share a bit about myself—I’m a huge fan of stand-up comedy (laughing is life), look forward to Mondays for Spotify's new Discover Weekly playlists, and live by the mantra "When words fail, let the music speak." Plus, I have six dogs! As a therapist, my goal is to help clients become their best selves. Together, we’ll improve self-esteem, identify symptom triggers, develop coping skills, explore psychoeducational materials, enhance family relationships, discuss psychotropic medications, and build a strong sense of self. My counseling style is warm and interactive, treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I combine cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling, tailoring our dialogue and treatment plan to your unique needs. I look forward to working with you!

I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. I bring a unique, spiritual, Latino/Hispanic perspective to mental health counseling that focuses on the needs of our community. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. Aporto una perspectiva única, espiritual, latina/hispana al asesoramiento de salud mental que se centra en las necesidades de nuestra comunidad.

Hi, I am Matthew Ortega! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful, sunny state of California with nearly 15 years of experience working with clients in the community. Are you longing for more right now? Is ADHD executive dysfunction ruling your day? Are you needing help coping with a new diagnosis of Bipolar disorder or OCD? Or are you looking for a safe place to discuss topics with your spouse, validate your feelings and restore your relationship to its former glory? I help empower individuals and couples of all ages and relationship statuses to overcome their obstacles and live a happy and fulfilling life. I use an educational and interactive approach to elevate and validate you. My approach offers cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, harm reduction, and trauma-informed perspectives as needed for YOUR unique situation. Together we dig deep to bring forth your most rewarding and fulfilling life. I take pride in leaving the stigmatizing labels at the door, here you are welcomed as you are! I believe it takes great strength and courage to take the first step in connecting with a therapist. My goal is to make you comfortable and empowered throughout the entire experience. If you’re ready to make the commitment and put in the honest effort to dig deep and blossom, then I am here to support you! I look forward to working with you and building this relationship!

I am a licensed therapist providing compassionate, collaborate results oriented therapy for clients seeking to change their lives for the better. I am devoted to acceptance and commitment therapy with the understanding that people have the capacity to grow and resolve. I believe that clients have the answers within themselves to remove barriers and challenges in their lives and it is a privilege to assist them in recognizing it and bringing it out.

Hi, my name is James, and I have a passion for working with couples, adults, and older adults who may be navigating challenges in their marriages, careers, retirement, or simply in “finding purpose.” My goal is to help you shape—or re-shape—your life in ways that raise the quality of your day-to-day experience. Since you are reading this, I want you to know that an effective therapist is not only defined by professional training, but also by life experiences, expertise, patience, compassion, and an open mind. Therapy is a partnership, and together we will work toward clear, realistic, and meaningful goals that give you direction and confidence. I believe that growth often begins with the willingness to take the first step, and one of my favorite sayings reflects that truth: “Whatever you believe that you can do; begin it!” – Goethe If you are ready to begin, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

Hi! Welcome to Grow! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & hold a Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology from Hope International University. My academic curriculum specialized in: family systems, biopsychosocial thought, psychodynamic approaches, and person centered interventions. Therapeutically, I specialize in substance abuse counseling/addiction, as I am also certified as a substance use counselor and have worked in substance abuse treatment as a residential treatment technician before becoming a therapist. Further, I specialize in working with kids & adolescents who struggle with emotional defiance/conduct disorders & developmental disabilities. Further, I have experience in dual diagnosis treatment and exploring grief/loss issues. My style to therapy comes from a Rogerian, CBT, and Humanistic approach and embracing the “entire self”. My passion in being a therapist is to see and embrace progress, meeting people where they are at, being present during “aha” moments, and serve altruistically. Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy participating in ministry work, being active in recreational sports, volunteering as a crisis counselor & hospice volunteer. Some of my past work experience has included: working in special education as a substitute teacher, in the public-school sector as a tutor/instructional assistant, and as an in-home behavior interventionist working with kids who have developmental disabilities.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Hola and Welcome, my name is Jennifer Delgadillo a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. I have been a bilingual therapist for the last 7 years. Throughout my career, I have gained an amplitude of experience working with young adults, children, adolescents, and military. I offer a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space to explore and process your current life challenges and develop effective strategies to allow you to continue growing during life changes.

As a therapist, I work with individuals of all genders, couples, and teens starting at age 15. While I specialize in supporting women in their 20s and 40s, I also work closely with adolescents navigating the unique challenges of teenage life, including identity development, academic pressure, social dynamics, family conflict, and the emotional ups and downs that come with growing up. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where teens can feel heard and equipped to handle the complexities of this transitional stage. Across all age groups, I’ve observed a common thread: the relentless pressure to excel, meet expectations, and maintain a sense of control. This often leads to self-doubt, burnout, and emotional overwhelm. In short, issues that deserve care, attention, and validation. Whether you’re facing a major life transition,like starting college, beginning a new career, navigating relationships, or becoming a parent, or simply feeling uncertain about your direction, you’re not alone. I invite you to reach out and begin a conversation where we can explore your experiences and work toward clarity, connection, and balance.

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’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and California, and I show up in therapy as a real person first. I know how important it is to have a space where you can be seen and understood without judgment. My style is warm, honest, and down-to-earth. I don’t use labels to define you. I listen, reflect, and walk with you through whatever challenges you’re facing. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or shame, I help you untangle what feels heavy so you can move toward healing and peace.

I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.