Therapists in California

Hi! My name is Zully Garcia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California, but I provide mental health services statewide through telehealth. Are you happy with your life? How well are you coping with your stressors? What changes do you want to make? I work with adults. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and women's issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy to help my clients feel better and obtain the results for their life they want. This is your time. Let me congratulate you on taking this step. Let's work together to so that you can begin to make the changes you seek.

Hello, my name is Tina Salazar, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA. Are you struggling with isolation, stress, depression, or anxiety? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. Asking for support is an act of strength and courage and is the first step in making positive changes. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and the things that give your life happiness and meaning. You can overcome life’s challenges so you can experience personal growth and live a full and authentic life. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore, learn, grow, and change by combining Coaching and therapy to suit your needs.

Hi, my name is Julie. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist based in Los Angeles , CA., where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, supporting you through talking, art making, somatic experiencing, breath work, and mindfulness. Your therapeutic process will be a unique reflection of who you are and what your goals for therapy are.

Gian Michael Sarabia worked in the education sector for many years and started a mindfulness action-research study with youth and families that had been exposed to various types of trauma. This further led to mindfulness integration in a variety of different clinical-therapy settings, from psychiatric hospitals to in-person and remote crisis response, which led to outpatient Telehealth with individuals from all walks of life.

I am an open-minded and compassionate professional dedicated to offering a safe and supportive space for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma, self-esteem issues, and coping difficulties. My approach is both caring and direct, helping you navigate your unique emotional landscapes while fostering personal growth and resilience. By working together, I can help empower you to overcome mental health barriers and enhance their overall quality of life, cultivating lasting positive change and a deeper sense of well-being.

Welcome to your first step at receiving the care you need. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a Master of Science degree from California State University, Los Angeles. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of challenges, and I believe you have the strength within you to overcome what you're facing. I was drawn to the field of mental healthcare through my own personal experiences and a deep desire to help others. Pursuing my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at California State University, Los Angeles, provided me with the knowledge and skills to support individuals in their healing journeys. My goal is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and authentic life. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we will work to identify and overcome obstacles, build resilience, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.

As a LMFT, it’s important for me to hold space and meet clients where they are. I will walk with you along your journey, while also making sure we do not avoid the hard stuff. I blend evidence-based tools with deep empathy. I will ask questions that will encourage you to explore and process feelings, while also helping you to reframe and rewrite the stories that no longer serve you.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with athletes, couples, and individuals navigating life transitions and intimacy concerns. My approach blends evidence-based strategies with a supportive, down-to-earth style, helping clients feel understood while making real, lasting change. Whether you’re aiming for peak performance, stronger relationships, or personal growth, I’m here to help you reach your goals with clarity and confidence.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering compassionate, client-centered therapy to pregnant women, adolescents, adults, and immigrant families. I’ve supported clients adjusting to HIV diagnoses and navigating parent-child dynamics. My approach is soft, grounding, and collaborative. I hold space for emotions while offering practical tools for growth, with the goal of supporting your healing until you feel ready to thrive independently.

Hello! My name is Martha Hurtado-Garcia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience supporting individuals with a wide range of challenges, including perinatal depression and anxiety, major life transitions, youth concerns, and the foster care system. I am currently pursuing certification in perinatal mental health to deepen my ability to serve parents and families during such an important stage of life. At the heart of my practice is a genuine love for helping others. I strive to meet my clients where they are, empowering them to define their own goals while walking alongside them with compassion and respect.

Hello, and welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in medical social work, and I’m now bringing that deep, compassionate care into private practice. Throughout my career, I’ve worked closely with individuals and families navigating some of life’s most challenging moments—chronic illness, hospitalization, loss, and major life transitions. My background in healthcare has given me a unique perspective on the connection between physical and emotional well-being. I understand how medical issues can impact mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. I’ve supported patients and families through grief, anxiety, depression, caregiving stress, and adjustment to new diagnoses, and I bring that same thoughtful approach to therapy. When working with clients, I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can explore your experiences, build resilience, and move toward healing. Whether you’re coping with health-related stress, life transitions, or seeking greater emotional balance, I’m here to walk with you at your pace. Starting therapy can feel like a big step. I aim to make that step feel grounded, safe, and supportive.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Irvine, California, and I work with clients throughout the state via tele-health. I work with Adults and specialize in anxiety and stress disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my clients explore their triggers, emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve positive life changes.

Greetings! I have relished working in this field for over 30 years and my practice has only gotten better over time--as I grow. Starting off my career in the field of Addiction Medicine assisting with patients embracing their own recovery over time. Through that lens my areas of expertise expanded: finding many people had other addictive/compulsive behaviors, mental health issues, childhood trauma, (including the impact of racism, sexism and homophobia). My patients have found psychoeducation incredibly useful. There is no question in my mind regarding the power of therapy can be an extraordinary avenue for healing, self-identity development and living more intentionally versus living by default. Together we will carve out the style that works for you. Many of the people I work with work a recovery program in AA (Alcholics Anonymous/NA etc.), ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families)--which has accelerated their healing and assisted immeasurably in our work together. Spirituality can be a wellspring of hope and vitality in our work together. Learning to treat oneself with gentleness, humor love and respect is the practice I hope to instill within my people over time. I learned for myself when starting my journey that all I needed to be was honest, openminded and willing (HOW) and it's working!

I’ve had the honor of working closely with children, families, and individuals healing from various forms of trauma and impacts of mental health from a cultural lens. Along the way, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the many different ways family life can shape us—sometimes in unexpected or challenging ways. I’ve worked in a variety of roles and settings, as a Director, Clinical Supervisor, across government agencies to private and mental health centers, which has helped me see each person’s story from many angles. My approach is compassionate yet direct, down-to-earth, and tailored to you. Whether you’re looking for support for yourself, your family, or your relationships, I’m here to walk alongside you with kindness and respect. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore, heal, and grow at your own pace.

Hi & Welcome. I am a proud Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the social service and mental health field. I specialize in working with transition aged youth, crisis support and working with those who have been incarcerated/ have loved ones incarcerated. I've been licensed in state of California since 2021. I began my calling as a licensed social worker in 2014 after completing my bachelors degree while living in Ohio and completing my masters at the University of Cincinnati. There, I discovered my calling to serve humanity and embarked on my pursuit of a Master of Social Work (MSW) at USC. Throughout the years I have gained valuable experiences working in a variety of settings such as clients homes, star run group homes, correctional settings, psychiatric hospitals, homeless shelters and outpatient settings. My approach is supportive and empathetic while empowering clients to live their best life. Together we will navigate life’s “curveballs” , heal from past situations and strive to get you to your desired future.

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

With a faith-based perspective, I provide solution-focused & mindfulness-based cognitive therapy strategies to promote individual care for client growth. I communicate with compassion, directness, and an emphasis on problem solving strategies. My faith-based perspective informs my supportive and pragmatic approach to helping you develop greater coping skills towards personal growth and healing. Over the past 20+ years, I have partnered with Federal, County, and Private Agencies in meeting the needs of diverse clientele populations.

I enjoy meeting new people. Each client I have is a new story. My objective is to listen and work collaboratively with you. Everybody gets challenged in this life. I would like to hear your needs and help you find your way through them. Life is short. If I can help you discover a happier life, that will be outstanding. I have a sense of humor. I thinks that's necessary in this life. Please feel free to call me Jen.

Hello, so good to meet you! I'm Sarah. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed since 2015 based in California. I have worked with kids, adolescents, individual adults and families to overcome short term challenges and plan for long term solutions. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss how I can support you in your life's journey.

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!

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.

Welcome to my practice! My name is Rachna and I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the state of California. I am also a PhD candidate with the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, focusing on International Psychology. I work with women ages 25-45 who have experienced pregnancy loss, depression and anxiety. When working with me, my hope is that you feel comfortable and safe as you share your life story with me.

Welcome! My name is Erica and I am so proud of you for taking this first step to mind health and wellness. I am always rooting for you and I am honored to help you through this season in your life. Whether we’re working through a tough transition or identifying steps towards a personal goal, my hope is that you walk away with a stronger sense of self compassion and self love.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in the state of California. I received my Master's Degree from Antioch University Los Angeles and have been practicing for 18 years. Working together, I help adults work to find solutions to ongoing issues causing anxiety, sadness and loneliness in their lives so they may become the best version of themselves.

Do you want a better day tomorrow than you had yesterday? Do you worry about things you have no control over? Do you ask, “Is this all there is to my life?” What happened to your dreams, your goals, your “someday I’ll be…I’ll do…, I’ll have…”? Hello, please call me Stephanie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years in the helping profession. I love the Martial Arts for it’s discipline of the body, mind, and spirit. I believe everyone should learn some Self-Protection techniques for all aspects of life; Physical, Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, Financial etc. Wellbeing is my personal ambition. My two favorite words are Peace and Hope. I also have a faithful trust in God. I am not in charge.

Greetings and congratulations on your decision toward cultivating a better you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of clinical experience treating youth, adults, and their families. It has been a privilege of mine to help individuals heal from psychological wounds associated with painful life transitions and experiences. Witnessing my clients' progress toward a better version of themselves has always been profoundly rewarding and joyful

Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage and I commend you for being here. Life can feel overwhelming, especially when we’re just trying to meet our basic needs while navigating stress, anxiety, or emotional pian. I understand how difficult it can be to find balance and prioritize your mental health, especially when each day can feel so different. Some days are filled with hope, while others feel nearly impossible. My role as your therapist is not to offer a perfect life, but to help you develop the tools and resilience to face life’s challenges with confidence and self-compassion. I provide a safe and supportive space to explore feelings such as depression, anxiety, hopelessness, or emotional fatigue. My goal is to walk alongside you through your healing process wherever that journey takes us. I specialize in working with a wide range of clients, including children, adults, older adults, veterans, military families and individuals receiving short-term therapy thought Employee Assistance Programs ( EAPs). I use an integrative, personalized approach to therapy, recognizing that each individual brings unique experiences, needs and goals. My work draws from a psychodynamic foundation and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Behavioral Techniques and a deep understanding of intergenerational trauma. Change can be both empowering and unsettling, but you don’t have to do it alone. Together we will uncover what’s been holding you back and move toward the life you want to live. If you are ready to begin this journey, I invite you to reach out today.

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

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and life’s everyday challenges. I take a compassionate, client-centered approach and primarily use Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help you build awareness, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping skills. In our work together, you can expect a safe, supportive space where you’ll learn to manage difficult thoughts and emotions, stay grounded in the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to you. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming feelings or looking to strengthen your emotional resilience, I'm here to walk alongside you on that journey.

Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for six years. I work with adults that struggle with depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have problems with substance use. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to help you recognize your strengths and learn how to build on those strengths to help you become the best version of yourself.

My goal is to help guide those that have lost their way, to help them build or rebuild the relationship with themselves that will allow them to make better choices. To help change negative thoughts to positive and to learn that they deserve to walk through the journey of life happy, fulfilled, and with their head held high. My job is to hold the light and lead the way to insight and self-love.

NOTE/ UPDATE: I’m currently welcoming new clients for short-term work. Please note that I’ll be taking a break from practice starting in OCTOBER, so any new clients who will like to begin therapy will need to agree this timeline, and treatment will be brief and goal-focused. If short-term support feels like a good fit for you, I’d be happy to connect. Hello there! I'm Katrina, a dedicated Christian therapist passionate about guiding individuals through life's ups and downs. By integrating faith-based principles with therapeutic approaches such as compassion-focused therapy and CBT, I create tailored treatment plans that honor your values and beliefs while empowering you to achieve your mental health goals. If you're seeking a supportive space to navigate your journey alongside a therapist who shares your Christian values, look no further. Let's work together to turn those struggles into opportunities for growth, personal development, and a renewed sense of hope. Schedule an appointment today, and let's discover the brighter future that awaits!

As a healing professional with over 25 years of experience, I am dedicated to empowering people to overcome their present challenges and lead more productive, abundant lives. My keen ability to listen, understand, and help others recognize their own internal strengths is my superpower in improving the lives of my clients. My services focus on working with individuals, couples, families, and minors (ages 13-17). I specialize in treating ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, coping skills, domestic violence, women's issues, substance use, self-esteem, and relationship issues

Hi, I’m Olivia, a therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. My approach is collaborative and supportive, drawing from evidence-based methods to fit your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from stress, healing from past experiences, or striving for personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward greater clarity and well-being.

Hello, I’m Nizhu—a licensed therapist with over 8 years of clinical experience, specializing in men’s mental health, trauma recovery, and motivational interventions. My approach is grounded in strength-based and evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Multisystemic Therapy (MST), where I’m honored to rank in the top 1% of therapists globally. I work with individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, often supporting clients in breaking generational patterns, rebuilding confidence, and developing healthier coping strategies. My style is warm, collaborative, and direct—because healing doesn’t have to be stiff, and growth rarely happens in silence. Expect real conversations, grounded techniques, and the occasional well-timed joke (because, yes, therapy can be both effective and human). Outside the therapy room, I’m a committed gym enthusiast, fueled by black coffee and protein-packed meals. Tattooed and purpose-driven, I believe in showing up authentically—for my clients and myself. Whether you’re here to build resilience, process trauma, or just get unstuck, I’m here to help—one honest conversation at a time.

I have been a therapist for 10 yrs 6 yrs in private practice. I have worked with hundred of different people with many different problems. My wheelhouse is trauma as I have worked in many different agencies that train for and deal with trauma. I have wisdom, experience and years of education under my belt. I am currently enrolled in a doctorate program to become a licensed psychologist

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.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and dual diagnoses. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and focused on treating the whole person—I utilize evidence-based and self-empowering modalities to help clients gain insight, heal from within, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

My name is Jared and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California. I have 5 years of professional experience as an individual therapist, family therapist and clinical case manager. I have a school counseling credential and experience working with middle school through 12th grade students, in public schools and young adults who transition into adulthood (TAY). My expertise is helping reduce maladaptive behaviors, anxiety, stress, depression, family conflict, coaching parents, increasing motivation, building a healthy self-esteem, and being self-efficient. I believe life is suffering and the end of suffering. My clinical objective is to build a safe space for you to gain insight, build self-awareness, and provide compassion to feel liberated. Therapy helps individuals recognize the roots of their suffering, let go of attachment, and develop mindfulness. While ultimate freedom lies in awakening, worldly tools like therapy can support the path by helping individuals heal, grow, and act with greater clarity, compassion, and responsibility.

Hi my name is Abby and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, caregiving responsibilities, or navigating a major health diagnosis, you don’t have to go through it alone. I help adults process complex emotions and life transitions by creating a supportive space grounded in compassion, cultural awareness, and practical tools. Tambien hablo Espanol! With over five years of experience as a medical social worker—I bring a deep understanding of how mental health intersects with chronic illness, family dynamics, and life-changing events. In our sessions, we’ll work together to explore your unique story, identify what’s holding you back, and help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and strive to meet clients exactly where they are—with warmth, patience, and genuine respect for their lived experience. If you’re looking for a therapist who can help you cope with stress, set boundaries, or make sense of difficult life changes, I’d be honored to support you.

I provide Cutting Edge Therapy which is a scientific method and state of art approach to life struggles, challenges, and achievements. This unique approach focuses on world transitioning relationships in a new light with the following lenses: A multisystemic and multidimensional innovative relationship therapy approach for individuals, couples, families, and organizations. Designed to help people help themselves in marriage, family, and social relationships and focuses on people’s uniqueness without generalizing, categorizing, and labeling.

I am a licensed social worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and addiction. I specialize in working with adults, including Veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach to care. As a native Spanish speaker, I offer services in both English and Spanish. I also have extensive experience working with Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), helping clients navigate personal and workplace concerns effectively.

I come to my practice with life experience and have lived in Europe and know the challenges of making life transitions. I use a laid back approach and focus on meeting the clients where they are to really understand the changes they wish to make. I firmly believe in the therapeutic allegiance and the client therapist working together for the optimum outcome.

My name is Rachael Avila, and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and build greater emotional well-being. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where we can work together to better understand your experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and foster personal growth. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to support you on your path toward healing and self-discovery. Your mental health matters, and I’m honored to be part of your journey.

Hello and welcome! I’m glad you are here. A little bit about myself, I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years, and it has been a meaningful journey. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, with a focus on Mental Health. I gained an understanding of the importance of accessible and compassionate care. As I gained experience, I developed an interest in family systems and decided to further my education by pursing a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Since then, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families, and children, providing both individual therapy and group facilitation. In 2020, I became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Through this journey, I have had experiences that allowed me to better understand the broader systems that impact people’s lives and to focus on finding collaborative, strength-based solutions that support real, lasting change.

Welcome Hello, I’m Ermelinda Garza I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 10+ years of experience in providing therapy to adults, adolescents, and individuals. Do you feel stuck, tired, and not able to function in your daily life? Are you struggling to balance work, relationships, and life? Many times, we experience loss, grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. I look forward to helping you in your journey to healing. Life is hard and sometimes all you need is just a push. We will work together to explore how to get your life back on track. Don’t wait any longer, it’s time to put yourself first! I utilize mindfulness, coping skills, meditation, and relaxation to help build a stronger you. This will be a safe place for healing and growing. In our sessions together, I will meet you where you are. I will greet you with compassion, respect, and understanding. You will be provided with evidence-based therapy practices so you can learn new ways of coping. Therapy is a journey; you drive the car through your journey. I would be honored to assist you in your journey. I am bilingual. Hablo Español!

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.

Hello! I’m Ignacio. I am a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) based in Monterey, California that truly enjoys helping clients overcome life struggles. While English is my primary language, I also speak Spanish fluently. I have worked with clients that have different life experiences including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, recovery from break-ups, identity issues, and other challenges. I am also welcoming to LGBTQIQ folx as an ally and I am gender-affirming. I am bicultural (Mexican-American) and bilingual (Spanish). The clients I have served in the past have benefited from the way in which I do therapy and help them overcome the difficulties in their lives to help them live and enjoy life more. I use science-backed (EBT) methods to help my clients including CBT, MI, and Mindfulness.

Hi! My name is Evelyn Sahagun and I am a bilingual, bi-cultural Mexican- American licensed therapist. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. My experience includes working in an array of settings such as county mental health, juvenile hall, community college, and working within a group practice. These opportunities have allowed me to work with diverse clients from all walks of life whom experience a variety of challenges. Some of my specialties include working with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, acculturation issues, survivors of sexual abuse, PTSD, trauma, and issues uniquely related to first responders.

Hello! My name is Charmaine and I’ve been a licensed clinician for 8 years and a social worker for the past 15! The trust you build with your therapist is the most important factor in developing that relationship and cultivating a space where change can happen. I would love to help you author your own story and gain motivation to make lasting change.