**PLEASE NOTE THAT I DO NOT TREAT ADULTS**
**PLEASE ALSO NOTE THAT MY SPECIALTY IS IN TREATMENT OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA. YOUR CHILD IS APPROPRIATE FOR THERAPY WITH ME IF THEY HAVE EXPERIENCED A TRAUMATIC OR MAJORLY STRESSFUL LIFE EVENT AND ARE HAVING SYMPTOMS AS A DIRECT IMPACT FROM THOSE EXPERIENCES.**
I am a child and adolescent psychologist with over 17 years of experience in treatment of youth ages 7-18 who have experienced trauma, adverse experiences, and/or stressful or challenging life events. My focus is to help clients be their own agents of change to help them move forward, empower them to gain control over trauma reactions, and foster their resilience. I focus on evidence-based approaches to treat trauma, PTSD/complex PTSD, and associated symptoms, and adjust treatment according to the client's specific needs.
I treat trauma related symptoms and reactions stemming from a wide range of stressful events including physical or sexual abuse or assault; maltreatment or neglect; domestic or community violence; motor vehicle accidents; serious injuries; natural disasters; grief or loss; medical trauma and more.
Prior to private practice, I was a Clinical Associate Professor at Stanford where I directed the Stress and Resilience Clinic. I was part of the development team for Cue-Centered Therapy (CCT), an intervention combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with an insight-based approach for youth with complex trauma. I provide teaching and training both nationally and internationally.
Welcome! My name is Jennifer. I am a dedicated Bilingual Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of clinical experience and two decades spent working in various capacities within the Social Work Profession. I have cultivated a deep passion for supporting children, families, and communities. I was born in Puerto Rico and raised in New York City, my heritage has profoundly shaped my perspective, allowing me to connect with diverse populations and understand the unique challenges they face.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State University of Long Beach. I have over 5 years working in outpatient and inpatient medical settings. I have worked as medical and mental health social worker. I have experienced working with adults, older adults dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use, life changes and other challenges.
I’m Anabell Arias, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma, anxiety, and relationship concerns. My approach is warm, compassionate, and trauma-informed, helping women understand the root of their patterns while creating meaningful, lasting change. Through EMDR, somatic therapy, attachment-based approaches, IFS, and trauma-focused CBT, I help clients feel more secure, regulated, and connected to themselves and their relationships.
Hi, I'm Jaclyn, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, perfectionism, and self-esteem. I am passionate about helping people build a healthier relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves so they can spend less time struggling and more time engaging in the things that matter most to them.
Many of the clients I work with feel exhausted by constant self-criticism, food and body thoughts, anxiety, or the pressure to get everything "right." They may find themselves stuck in cycles of restriction, binge eating, emotional eating, people-pleasing, or perfectionism, despite their best efforts to change. My goal is to help clients better understand the patterns keeping them stuck while developing practical tools to create meaningful and lasting change.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, self-compassion work, and values-based approaches to help clients develop greater awareness, emotional resilience, and flexibility. I believe that lasting change is most sustainable when it comes from a place of understanding and self-compassion rather than shame or self-judgment.
Therapy with me is not about achieving perfection. Instead, it is about learning how to navigate life's challenges with greater confidence, self-awareness, and kindness toward yourself. Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, body image concerns, anxiety, or feeling disconnected from yourself, I strive to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can occur.
Reaching out for support can be difficult, and I am honored to walk alongside clients as they move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
This sounds polished for Grow while still feeling like you—warm, compassionate, and clearly focused on eating disorders and body image work.
I am an LCSW. I provide a comfortable and relaxed environment where you can finally feel empowered to live the life you deserve. Through a variety of approaches and interventions that are customized to you and your needs, we will work together to move you in the direction of a new way of experiencing yourself. At the end of our time together, it is my hope that you will feel stronger, more grounded, with a deeper understanding of yourself. Bringing humor, empathy, and compassion, I am here to assist in honing the needed skills to heal and grow.
I am a California licensed psychologist with more than 30 years of professional experience. I work to help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, as well as coping with grief and loss, and with life changes. I attempt to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am a psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide teletherapy to adult individuals and couples residing in California. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem issues, chronic illness, LGBTQ issues, career concerns, life transitions, relationship issues with partners, family members, and parent/child conflict. My methods of therapy include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radical Acceptance, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Directed Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Interpersonal (Talk) Therapy.
Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.
I’m a dedicated practitioner committed to helping people feel supported, understood, and empowered in their own lives. My practice is grounded in a thoughtful, compassionate approach that recognizes each person’s individual experiences, strengths, and goals. I strive to create a welcoming space where meaningful connection, growth, and lasting change can take place.
Offers in-person in Los Banos, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes therapy should be a place where you can be honest about what you’re experiencing without feeling judged, rushed, or misunderstood. My practice provides a supportive, collaborative space for adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, emotional overwhelm, and challenges with self-esteem and emotional regulation.
My approach is individualized because I recognize that there is no single path to healing. Together, we’ll explore what is contributing to your current struggles, identify patterns that may no longer be serving you, and develop practical tools to help you feel more grounded and in control of your life.
Are you ready to take steps towards actionable change? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy for young adults, adults, and older adults facing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered to develop resilience, gain clarity, and make positive changes in their lives.
Hello there! I'm so excited to connect with you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize a collaborative approach that requires working in partnership together to create positive change. I want to get to know you and your world and believe I bring compassion, humor, kindness, and curiosity into each session. Let’s work together in helping you make conscious choices instead of having unconscious reactions so you can live a more satisfying and fulfilling life!
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.
Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role in their respective communities and are an excellent resource for you to realize your strengths and improve your well-being. When your car breaks down you take it to a mechanic. When your tooth hurts you see a dentist. When your mental health can use a “tune-up,” see a Mental Health Professional!
Hola! My name is Brianna and I’m so glad you’re here. The decision to begin therapy is a big one, and I feel honored that you are considering doing that with me. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. On our therapeutic journey, I welcome you just the way you are so that we can work to create an authentic life balance that will support your success, wellness and happiness.
Whatever it is, telling your story to someone who cares and accepts the most authentic version of you, is the first step toward healing. I want to work with you to help you figure out how to solve challenges and find the most authentic version of yourself so that you can live the life you’ve always envisioned.
I received my Masters from CSU San Jose State and have been supporting clients for 8 years.
Hello! I have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2019, with a background in medical social work and behavioral health. My experience has equipped me to support individuals navigating complex emotional challenges that often center around modern life's daily challenges. I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety and stress related to life's many transitions and demands by helping them build resilience and deveop practical coping strategies for their improved well-being.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes therapy should feel like a real conversation—not a clinical interview. I bring warmth, authenticity, humor, and compassion into the room while also being willing to challenge you when needed. My goal is to create a space where you can take off the mask, talk honestly about what’s really going on, and feel understood without judgment. Whether you’re navigating relationships, anxiety, grief, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, we’ll work together to understand the patterns that are no longer serving you and find practical ways to move forward.
Offers in-person in Gardena, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hello! I appreciate your curiosity and willingness to explore yourself and your goals. I'm Alison Camhi, a California-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working with individuals, couples, families and groups for over 20 years to navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance and process addictions, dual diagnoses, co-dependence, mood disorders, grief, communication and the various challenges we walk through each day. My most important goal is to help my Clients transform positive AND difficult experiences into a strategy for forward movement and progress built upon your insights, along with practical tools for consistent momentum.
Hi! I'm a Mexican American, Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters of Social Work from California State University San Marcos. I love working with a variety of clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I help individuals challenged with grief, anxiety, depression, substance misuse and trauma, to become better versions of themselves. I like to provide a nonjudgmental approach, and really find out who a person truly is, to have a better understanding of all the parts that make a person who they are.
Hello, I'm Karen and I am so happy that you have made this first step of seeking what might help whatever situation you are in. It's a big step, and not taken lightly. Therapy effectiveness is known to work best when it feels like the right fit for you, and you are in a place in your life to move forward with it. I have been doing this for a minute, and know how much change can come about walking alongside you on this journey.
I have worked in outpatient settings, managed counseling programs, private practice, schools, drug treatment, crisis response, elder care, and at-risk settings. While I have skill sets in those areas, I feel that working with anxiety, trauma, grief, ADHD , and adjustments to life's circumstances are particularly strong attributes for me.
VirtualOffers in-person in Lodi, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
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!
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.
I’m a bilingual therapist who provides a welcoming, safe, and nonjudgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Together, we focus on your strengths, build resilience, and develop practical tools for meaningful change. My goal is to help you feel empowered, more confident, and connected to yourself and others while navigating life with greater ease.
Hello I'm Sonja — a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. My path to this work wasn't a straight line and I think that makes me a better clinician. I started with a career in corrections in Arkansas, where I learned early on how to connect with people in difficult circumstances without judgment. That experience shaped how I show up in the therapy room to this day. I transitioned into mental health as a psychiatric technician, working directly with all age groups across inpatient and community settings; providing direct care, facilitating group therapy, and delivering individual therapy during my internship and later as a registered clinician with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. By the time I became fully licensed, I had accumulated nearly a decade of real-world clinical experience across some of the most demanding settings in behavioral health..
My approach is the culmination of over 20 years of personal experience, study and work in the fields of social worker and therapies . Deeply listening and living in life’s fullness has been my touchstone and a guiding light that continues to inform and teach me. I look forward to talking with you and learning more about how I can help.
My name is Matt Gleason and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have had experience with both children and adults with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. I work collaboratively with you to work toward your personal goals and dreams. I consider myself client-centered which means that you are the expert on your own life and I want to work on what YOU find the most valuable in our sessions together. I utilize evidence based therapeutic modalities as well including CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, and Motivational Interviewing. I am culturally responsive and utilize trauma informed care. I also exercise cultural humility with all of my clients and enjoy working with clients who may have been stigmatized including LGBTQ+ and all different racial/ethnic backgrounds. I enjoy working with all different faith/spiritual backgrounds. I can't wait to start our work together and look forward to helping you begin your therapeutic journey.
Hello, I am Emily Donahue, Trauma Therapist. My passion has been to assist and support individuals on their healing paths and recovery. I work with survivors of trauma; sexual assault and abuse, human trafficking, PTSD. My clients also learn new strategies and skills for experiencing the fall out from those experiences; addiction, codependency, anger, life goals, fear, guilt, scare. I also have experience working with a mobile crises unit, that have both a crises worker and EMT. I have seen individuals gain insight and have aha moments. Trauma is only one aspect of your life, come find out about the rest!
Offers in-person in Santa Rosa, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I have been working in mental health for over 40 years, and as a licensed professional for 16 years. My area of expertise is mental health and supporting clients to be able to adjust and cope better with a myriad of life stressors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who supports adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles, and my Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on Adult Mental Health and Wellness from the University of Southern California. I have experience working with clients ages 5 to 65 from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, with specialties in domestic violence, grief, and trauma. I provide a warm, empowering, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe to explore their experiences. Using a blend of CBT, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused therapy, I help clients build practical coping skills, heal from past experiences, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
Hi, I'm Alisa! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I specialize in treating interpersonal concerns and have helped people adjust to life changes, decrease anxiety, and alleviate depression. Working with me, you will find our therapy sessions will be a safe place to be authentic and vulnerable. I aim to utilize appropriate interventions to help you achieve your goal from evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based, and Psychodynamic. I cater my approach to each of my client’s individual needs.
My approach centers on deep listening, empathy, and honoring each client’s lived experience. I intentionally consider cultural, environmental, and systemic influences, ensuring therapy is respectful, collaborative, and client-led. I believe in creating a comfortable space that supports growth while affirming each person’s identity and self-determination. I am especially enthusiastic about returning to a practice setting focused on working with adults, where I can support clients in exploring identity, healing, and growth.
Hello my name is Adrian Risher and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My path to therapy began with a deep interest in understanding people and the challenges we face in life. My journey has been about learning to walk alongside people-meeting them where they are, honoring their story and supporting them in building a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.
I am a warm, empathetic, and eclectic therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through healing and growth. As a bilingual, trauma‐informed Latina clinician, I specialize in working with teens and adults (13+) navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, immigration‐related stress, and women’s issues. My approach centers on creating a safe, culturally attuned space where your story is honored and your strengths guide the path towards healing.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, CEAP) based in California, Georgia, Maryland, and New Jersey. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland Baltimore and have been practicing for 25 years. I help young adults, adults, and elderly adults struggling with life transitioning issues that may cause stress, depression, and anxiety through CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation treatment modalities that helps individuals reach their highest potential.
As your therapist, my goal is to help you understand how the events of your life have shaped the way you move through the world and to use that understanding as a foundation for real, personal change. As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Art Therapist, I've worked alongside adolescents, adults, and families navigating the effects of violence and trauma, and I know that this work takes courage. Together, we'll identify your strengths and build coping tools that support genuine growth and healing. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, meaning you set the pace and I meet you where you are.
Hi there, I'm Cynthia. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you wanting to be the best version of yourself? I been providing therapy for client ages 8 and up for over 10 years from all socioeconomic statuses and ethnicities. I know that the foundation of thearpy is trust and that takes time. It is my job to earn your trust so that you feel safe to expand, grow, look within. You are always the driver in the journey I am just here to facilitate and support it.
Megan believes in fostering a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. A large part of healing is being witnessed by another being with compassion and being reminded of your strength. Her approach is encouraging, and she aims to create an atmosphere where humor, curiosity, and authenticity are welcome. Consider working together if you're open to exploring your thoughts, feelings, and sensations with curiosity and if you're looking for a therapist who can offer encouragement and a playful, yet professional, atmosphere.
Megan's therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in mindfulness and cognitive therapy. She integrates various techniques to help you become more aware of your body’s signals and how to manage emotions effectively. She works with adults who are ready to explore themselves more deeply, whether navigating anxiety, stress or personal growth.
Megan would love to connect with you and explore how therapy can support your personal growth and well-being. If you’re ready to start your journey toward healing, please reach out to schedule a free 15-min phone consultation.
Hello. My Name is Eric.
Are you feeling tired? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Are your relationships not as good as what you hope they would be? Are you feeling down, and hard to be true to yourself? Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in?
I help people manage anxiety, depression and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's working well for you, and what can be improved upon in your life so you can find yourself, and achieve your full potential in life. We will utilize a whole body care an approach that addresses the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness into the session to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Whether you're dealing with feelings of being overwhelmed, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can understand you are not alone, and can learn positive coping skills to manage your feelings that are not allowing you to achieve your full potential. Let's work together!
My approach is a therapist who works collaboratively with clients to create a space that feels safe, respectful and grounded in authenticity. It is important that my clients feel emotionally safe, seen and empowered. I intend to create an environment where they can feel comfortable to navigate the challenging and difficult experiences they have endured throughout their life. My focus is on supporting clients as they learn to understand and manage their emotions, express their thoughts and feelings effectively, and explore how childhood experiences shape who we are today.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.
Hi and Welcome! My name is Amy Childers; I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 14 years of counseling experience. I have experience working with many populations over the years. I am also specialized in the treatment of trauma and offer EMDR treatment. My approach is client centered eclectic, so I collaborate with my client to determine the best treatment approach and goals for success. I utilize Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and EMDR in my therapy practice. I currently provide therapy to ages 18 and up at this time. I look forward to meeting you.
My name is Michael Southerland and I have over 30 years experience in working with people in mental health, 10 years as a licensed therapist. I have worked in child welfare and adoptions, juvenile systems, and community mental health. I have been in private practice since 2018. I truly enjoy helping others become their best selves. I am looking forward to meeting you.
I am a client centered therapist, which means I believe that the client is the expert on their experiences. I ask questions, am open to feedback, and trust the client's capacity for growth and self-actualization. Additionally, I provide coping skills and evidenced based practices to help clients in these areas. I also use art therapy in my practice, which is workable in telehealth.
Hello! I am Vanessa Ly and it's so great to meet you. Am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I specialize in treating younger adults and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, or relationship concerns. I have also worked closely with first generation individuals and families to be the cycle breaker. I believe that positive change and growth can happen and it’s the first step to your journey of healing.
Growing up isn't always easy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or the many transitions that come with adolescence and young adulthood, you don't have to face it alone. I specialize in helping teens and young adults better understand themselves, build healthy coping skills, heal from difficult experiences, and gain confidence as they move toward the life they want.
My journey to becoming a therapist began in child welfare, where I witnessed firsthand the resilience of young people and the complex challenges many families face. For more than 10 years, I've been committed to serving underserved communities and providing a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to walk alongside you, helping you navigate life's challenges while building the tools and confidence needed to reach your personal goals.
We do not need to struggle any longer against our old conditioned patterns... we must only recognize them for what they are.
Hello! My name Is Natalie Knight and I am an LCSW who is passionate about utilizing the strength of the therapeutic alliance as a support to enter into an exploration of what is beckoning for our attention at any given moment. I believe once we learn how to meet our emotions that we can clear ourselves of old past traumas or new ones.
I have been doing this work for the past eight years professionally. I use a person-centered approach in my counseling practice which emphasizes that the client is the best authority for his/her own life and that the answers to his/her questions are inside of them. I serve as a mirror to reflect to the client the inherent wisdom that we uncover during our therapy sessions. I also rely strongly on EMDR as a modality to help client with the root of their trauma. This process has been quite effective for me in my search for understanding and I hope to be able to share it with others who feel called to this type of work with me as well.
Do you struggle with motivation and focus troubles that affects more than just your ability to get your homework done? Do you feel overwhelmed by basic tasks that you can’t seem to get started? Do you ever wonder that life could be better, your mind a little quieter? Now more than ever, young adults are feeling overwhelmed with the life presented to them.
I believe you can find the motivation to get control of your life again. I work primarily with young adults with ADHD and Anxiety and use a person first approach to therapy. We will start with learning how your struggles manifest uniquely in your life. I then will help you by offering behavioral change tools while also working on the deeper ‘why’ that brings you to treatment. I strive to offer a safe, nonjudgmental, and open place, so you can get the help you need.
Hello! I love meeting people where they are, and helping them transition to their next best thing. Whether it be transitioning from college to adult life, or perimenopause ladies rocking into their next best self, I love being there to support when you're unsure and to reflect and help processing things that just aren't making sense...yet! Transitions can make us anxious for trying something new, or depressed from letting something go. I am there as a calm and positive force for you to springboard into what's next, while honoring and holding on to what still is a part of the YOU you are growing into!
I have almost 10 years of experience in this field of work. Most of it has been with the geriatric population within various settings, as well as with individuals challenged with a severe mental illness in forensic environments. I am very familiar with the impact of trauma on the life cycle. Additionally, I work with young adults navigating school-work-life-family balance, setting priorities, making challenging life decisions and developing self esteem and confidence while learning to maneuver life's ongoing challenges.