I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I earned my Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Vanguard University. As your therapist, my hope is to create a supportive relationship where you will feel validated, heard, and seen within a safe environment. My clients have overcome depression, anxiety, toxic relationships, addictions, grief, and trauma. I look forward to us discovering the best you through our work.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my masters in clinical mental health counseling from California State University, Fullerton( go Titans!). I have practiced therapy for the past 6 years. I am a proud queer and gender diverse therapist that has experience working with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions. I strive to provide LGBTQIA affirming care through all of my work.
I imagine you found yourself here because there is something in your life that is not working for you, creating distress, inner conflict, or bringing you pain. OR maybe you are desiring inner change, to evolve and grow as a human, parent, partner, or spiritually. Maybe you want to dive into exploring who you are at your core, what you are capable of, or what truly makes you happy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist having worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have worked in a variety of psychology settings, including working with incarcerated populations; at-risk populations, and severe mental illness, as well as teaching at the graduate level. These different areas provided me with various skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
I offer individual therapy to support and treat relational issues, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, and life transitions. I take a collaborative approach with the intention to identify blocks and negative patterns and then release and clear them, while recognizing and building upon strengths, resources, and coping skills.
I believe that therapy is an art as each client is unique. Together, we will develop the best therapeutic process for you. I will utilize the most credible interventions to support meaningful change.
Hi, I am Danielle. Do you find yourself struggling with motivation or struggling with negative feelings? Are you continuously worrying, resulting in feeling exhausted and irritable? Are you wondering if you will feel normal again? I provide help for those experiencing stress, excessive worry, burnout and lingering unhappiness. I am empathetic, warm, and direct. I am supportive and respectful of clients while offering insight.
Do you find it difficult to offer yourself the same kindness, compassion, and grace you would a friend or loved one? Do you have a hard time regulating your emotions and embodying challenging emotions?
I am a digital nomad with a telehealth practice. I believe therapy is a sacred space and I'm honored to share it with you. I practice from a place of authenticity and curiosity. My style is empowering, warm, and humorous. My vibe is casual and light hearted.
It's a heavy and difficult time in the world. I see a lot of hopelessness, helplessness, and burnout. We are collectively having a difficult time thriving in our current environment. I want to support you in actively choosing hope, even on the days when it feels impossible. You've got this!
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist(LMFT) in California providing services virtually. I primarily help young adults with challenges such as anxiety, neurodivergence, self-esteem, and life transitions. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and completed my practicum and associate work in the community mental health sector. Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade working in the special education system, primarily with Autism and ADHD.
Hi. I am the daughter of immigrants which motivated me to study Multicultural community based psychology. I have worked in many different settings from community mental health to private practice. Currently I am the director of a consultation unit for youth and young adults in the foster care system. I really enjoy working with people on how to maximize their potential to create happier lives; sometimes this is achieved through more traditional therapy while other times this may require life coaching. I do not believe that therapy needs to be a continuous life long process, but rather a process individuals move in and out of at different stages of their lives.
I am glad you are taking time to get to know me. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have my M.S. in clinical psychology from San Francisco State University and my undergrad in psychology from Purdue University. I have worked in San Francisco for seventeen years with multicultural families and individuals that have been in crisis. I have worked with a multitude of differing diagnosis and problems over this extensive period of time. I take such pride in helping families and individuals live a better life and obtain their desired goals. I am glad to have been around in my job long enough to have observed the positive results my contributions have made. I am passionate in wanting to help alleviate suffering and I stay determined in doing so.
Hello everyone. I would first like to say that I am pleased to have the opportunity of being your counselor/therapist. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Colorado, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington with certification specializing in Women's Mental Health (WMHS-C).
I know finding a therapist in todays society can be difficult but you've made it this far, and so it's a pleasure to meet you!
Hi, I’m Paola Zaldivar, a licensed therapist providing therapy for individuals and couples. I have four years of experience, and I believe healing begins in a space where you feel seen, safe, and supported. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity. My goal is to create meaningful, lasting change by helping you understand yourself more deeply and strengthen your relationships. I can also help you navigate major life transitions—such as getting married, becoming a parent, adjusting to an empty nest, starting school, experiencing grief or illness, or going through a divorce—by getting to the root of your concerns and using cognitive-behavioral techniques to help you regain stability and confidence.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I know personally how hard it can be to reach out for help, and I think it shows a lot of strength that you're trying to make your life better! I aim to provide a warm, non-judgemental environment where we can explore what tools might be helpful for you, and maybe even laugh a little! I have 15 years of experience in the field and I have been certified in researched, evidence-based therapies that we can try together, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), CPT, Motivational Interviewing and Seeking Safety. I'm here to help you find solutions that will help improve your life and help you connect with your values. We can try out several different research backed therapies until we find what is most helpful for you.
I’m Juliana Mott Fabio, LCSW, and I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating grief, life transitions, anxiety, and the quiet emotional weight that can build when life feels overwhelming. Many of my clients come to therapy during seasons when they feel unsteady—after a loss, during a major shift in identity or relationships, or when old patterns of coping no longer feel sustainable. My role is to offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can slow down, reflect, and understand what you’re carrying with gentleness rather than judgment.
With a background in hospice, bereavement counseling, crisis work, and somatic practices, I bring both clinical experience and a deep respect for the human experience. I blend talk therapy with somatic and mindfulness-based tools to help clients reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and feel more present and supported in daily life. Together, we explore what is no longer serving you, strengthen your resilience, and identify new ways of relating to yourself and others.
My hope is that therapy becomes a place where you feel seen, understood, and empowered—where you can process your emotions, rebuild your sense of self, and move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to navigate these transitions alone.
Welcome! I'm Mark Mitchell, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals with healing, growth, and transformation in a very pragmatic way. With over 40 years of experience in the field. I help you get Hope & Tools to make your life better.
At the core of my practice is a deep belief in the power of connection and the potential for personal change. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. Together, we'll work collaboratively to identify the underlying issues that may be holding you back and develop practical strategies to overcome them.
My areas of expertise encompass a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, men's issues, couples issues, recovery, retirement & financials, & dealing with aging parent or partner. I use a holistic and integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Approach and Mindfulness.
What sets me apart is my genuine passion & tools for helping individuals and families thrive. I believe that therapy is not solely about addressing current struggles but also nurturing long-lasting resilience and well-being. I strive to empower you with the tools and insights necessary to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
Beyond my clinical work, I am committed to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of the latest research and therapeutic techniques. This dedication ensures that I provide you with the most effective and up-to-date therapeutic interventions available.
If you're seeking a therapist who will listen deeply I am the guy.:)
On a personal note, I am happily married, active in hiking, martial arts, & yoga, a gardener, was a caregiver for multiple years with a paralyzed speechless mother, & volunteer for the Los Angeles Veterans Collaborative & a local church.
Hello, my name is Monique and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I earned my Master's Social Work (MSW) from The University Southern California (USC) and have been practicing for over 15 years. I help adult women and men face, overcome and win the internal struggle within themselves. These struggles could be a result of trauma, anxiety, depression etc.
I believe in the value of building a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship to tap into your internal strength, self-expertise, and self-expression to promote growth and support healing. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, #126521, in California, and I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2015.
My practice is built on the foundation that every individual, relationship, and family deserves a therapeutic space free from judgment. I serve a diverse clientele of adults, teens, and couples, offering a safe and inclusive environment for people of all sexual identities. While I treat a wide range of mental health concerns, I offer specialized, culturally competent care for LGBTQ+ and Neurodivergent individuals, technology professionals, older adults, and same sex couples.
A significant portion of my practice is also dedicated to working with men struggling with compulsive behaviors regarding sex and drugs, offering a path toward control and alignment with their values. If you are looking for a therapist who is open-minded, direct, and deeply familiar with these unique lived experiences, I invite you to reach out.
Are you struggling with everyday life? Do you find it hard to share how you feel because you think no one else will understand? Our life journeys can be difficult at times, but it doesn't have to be journeyed alone. I love helping people learn that they can overcome the difficulties life throws at them. I am, Shelly Welsh, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, caregiver burnout, infidelity, vocational stressors, poor coping strategies and life transitions. I work primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Approach while also at times incorporating an eclectic approach using other modalities, such as person-centered, solution-focused techniques, coping skills training and compassionate and supportive care. I will help you find the barriers to healing and growth and living your best life.
I have primarily worked with teens, young adults and adults. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety and the issues that can come with those, such as self esteem issues and difficulties with relationships. I also have experience working with individuals who have significant mental health issues as well. I have worked in the mental health field for approximately 30 years in a variety of capacities.
VirtualOffers in-person in Roseville, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping individuals, families, and couples rewrite unhelpful narratives, reconnect with their strengths, and rediscover hope and happiness in their lives. To name a few, I use Narrative Therapy, CBT, and EMDR to support healing, clarity, and lasting change within yourself, in relationships, and in the community you prefer. Together, we’ll explore the feelings you’re experiencing, identify the barriers that are holding you back, and develop tools to help you cope with the challenges you’re facing.
My work is rooted in self-empowerment through a client-centered, strength-based approach. I believe our past shapes our present, and by understanding your story, healing what’s unresolved, and planning intentionally for the future, you can move toward a more joyful, fulfilling, and authentic life. My goal is to provide a compassionate space where you can build confidence, process trauma, and create meaningful, sustainable change in the way that is healthy and works for you and what and who you hold dear.
As an individual, I consider myself to be analytical, intellectual, insightful, creative, and passionate. What drove me to become a psychotherapist was the idea of implementing philosophical concepts and the creative process to help people cope with suffering, which I believe is an unavoidable part of the human condition. I have clinical experience providing services to individuals and families from a diverse population. I am enthusiastic about putting my skills to service and assisting my clients in the process of healing and growth.
Hi there, I'm really glad you're here. Looking for a therapist can feel overwhelming- but when you find someone who truly gets you, it can make all the difference. My hope is to be that person for you. I'm a first generation Mexican-American therapist, and while most of my sessions are in English, I also speak Spanish and enjoy working with bilingual and bicultural clients. I know how important it is to feel seen and understood, especially when navigating different parts of your identity and life experiences.
I am a caring loving therapist who wants to get to know you and help you feel like your most authentic and healthy self. I love to listen and laugh with my clients. I am a mother and a wife. My goal is to help my clients know that they are not alone, and often just sharing emotions can feel like a big relief. I want to encourage you to seek out the things you love to do and spend time with the people who make you feel most loved and accepted. I want to empower my clients to give and accept the love they deserve.
I bring over seven years of experience providing mental health care in the Los Angeles area. I work with individuals, families, and children who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. My approach is holistic and client-centered, and I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities to thoughtfully tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and collaborative space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow and heal at their own pace.
I am Licensed MFT and I help my client to explore their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and confidential space. The goal is personal growth and improve mental wellbeing and navigate the client through anxiety, depression, addiction and relationship issues, through collaborative work my client able to gain the tools and insight to deal with the at hand problems and future issues. Developing rapport with my clients is a primary focus and understanding their struggles in their own words, by providing them with safe and nonjudgmental environment.
Your present circumstances don't determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. -Nido Qubein I take a whole person and collaborative approach to therapy, catering therapy to the individual sitting in front of me. My specialties are in the field of grief and loss. Grief is not just bereavement, it is also the loss of a job, a relationship or a dream.
Hello! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice with more than 10 years of experience working with adult individuals and couples. My speciality is the ability to use my training and experience in ways clients need and want; in other words, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I have found that talk therapy as part of a holistic approach to well-being works best for most people. Identity is the foundation of all work in therapy and we will focus on aspects of your identity that are important to you.
My name is Rachel, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I am originally from Hong Kong and speak multiple languages, including Cantonese and Mandarin. I effectively work with diverse individuals who experienced depression, anxiety, "imposter syndrome", social anxiety, stress, grief, self-esteem issues, and academic and employment challenges.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, sand tray, and sand play therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy with young children. I lean toward person-centered and integrated therapy, such as Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Therapy, Art and Music therapy, and Mindfulness Practice.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters degree in Mental Health from Christian Theological Seminary in Butler University at Indiana. My Masters program is a Four year special degree program which is integrated with Psychology, Philosophy and Theology, that provides holistic approach to Psychotherapy. I work with adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Anger, Trauma events such as military combat, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and Racism.
Hello, my name is Brigitta.
I empower individuals to take back their lives by identifying their strengths, identity, and learn useful skills to help develop a future with hope and expectation. Together, we will explore what is making you stuck by utilizing a holistic approach and address issues of the mind, body, and spirit to strengthen you as an individual. I utilize elements of various modalities with each individual to find out where the wounds began, to close the doors to an unresolved past, to reframe negative core beliefs and its maladaptive influence, and to work towards healthy goals for your future. I can integrate faith-based counseling to build resilience and hope at your request.
Our sessions will be a place of safety, growth, and rejuvenation for your soul. I will meet you with a non-judgmental and compassionate approach. As we build our therapeutic relationship, the process of healing and restoration will come.
I cannot wait to meet you!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California dedicated to empowering individuals through compassionate, client-centered care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help clients develop coping skills and build resilience. My approach fosters a safe, supportive space for self-exploration and growth. I believe in meeting clients where they are, tailoring therapy to their unique needs, and providing a warm, nonjudgmental environment where they feel heard and valued. Through collaboration and evidence-based strategies, I help individuals navigate challenges, strengthen their self-awareness, and achieve personal growth.
Hi there! My name is Lara Manoukian, and I am eager to start working with you! I find a great sense of purpose and fulfillment in being a Marriage and Family Therapist, and I always hope that the therapeutic relationship I have with my clients promotes healing, connection, and empowerment.
I utilize a wide variety of interventions to meet my client where they're at and take things at their pace. My goal as a therapist is to be a mirror for my client, reflect their goals back to them, and connect the dots alongside them. I will never pretend like I know more about your life than you do, but I will help you uncover habits, beliefs, and feelings that are not aligned with who you want to be.
I believe it takes internal bravery and external support to examine the parts of ourselves that are much easier to ignore. My ultimate goal is for our therapeutic space to be a place where you can feel safe to question, challenge, and redesign your life into something that is authentic to who you are. Through my use of different evidence-based practices and genuine empathy, I truly believe we can get you where you want to be.
While providing a nonjudgmental environment, I offer warmth, compassion, and empathy while serving my clients, in an effort to assist them with identifying and achieving their desired outcomes. I focus on helping my clients gain insight and awareness into themselves, their problems/barriers and relationships, so they can become active agents of change in their lives, and become a person with whom they are content.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California (LCSW 113586). I earned my Master of Social Work degree in 2019 from California State University, San Bernardino. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, transitional-age youth, adults, and older adults. My professional experience spans a variety of settings, such as schools, nonprofit community-based programs, county mental health programs, and secured facilities, allowing me to develop a broad understanding of the unique challenges individuals face at different stages of life. I have provided both therapeutic services and case management support to individuals experiencing a wide spectrum of mental health needs.
Hi, I'm Ana, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's transitions, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience. I work with young adults who are seeking understanding, clarity, and meaningful change. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their emotions, strengthen their sense of self, and move toward a life that feels more balanced and authentic.
I am a licensed therapist in California with over 10 years of professional experience. I’m passionate about supporting clients who are navigating depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, grief, and loss. I provide video Telehealth services on weekday afternoons and evenings so you can save time and receive care from the comfort of your home. I look forward to meeting you!
Hello, I am Mark Chaney. I am a therapist who works with a wide range of concerns. Some areas I am very passionate about are disability, chronic illness, LGBTQ, depression and anxiety. Given that I am a therapist who has a physical disability, cerebral palsy. I have a passion for working with those who might be struggling in their disability or health journey. I am also a gay man and have a passion for working with my community.
Welcome, it takes motivation and courage to reach out for assistance with life's challenges; I appreciate you taking time out of your day to review my profile. From my 15+ years in the field of Social Work I strongly believe that Talk Therapy can have an overwhelmingly positive impact upon various mental health conditions, cognitions and coping skills. Having an early love of books, and social justice inspired me to eventually enter the field of Social Work. I received my BA from Tufts University and my MSW from The University of Washington.
Hi, I’m Jennifer Bobadilla, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. As a second-generation Asian American, I understand the nuances of cultural identity, generational dynamics, and the unique challenges many families face. I work with children, parents, families, and individual adults to help them navigate life’s ups and downs, strengthen connections, and build confidence in managing emotions and relationships. I am deeply passionate about supporting growth and healing, and my approach is warm, empathic, and collaborative. With over a decade of experience across children’s non-profits, adolescent residential treatment centers, community agencies, and private practice, I show up authentically in session, creating a safe and caring space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes that bring more balance, connection, and well-being into their lives.
My name is Tiffany Deneau. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I have worked both in the inpatient/outpatient setting and have worked with several populations. My primary focus is improving emotional regulation, improving relationships, increasing self-esteem, and achieving personal growth. I became a therapist because I know what it feels like to no longer want to go on with life. I also know what it feels like to finally be out of the hole l was in and to feel whole again. I know how difficult it is to ask for help, but it's also the best decision one can make.
I’m a proud African American/Black Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), licensed in California since 2022. With over six years of experience in mental health and social work, I’m passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges. My focus is on serving disenfranchised communities, including people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, and those facing issues like depression and anxiety. I aim to create a safe, affirming space rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and social justice.
As a dedicated licensed mental health therapist, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, across a wide spectrum of socioeconomic statuses, and addressing an array of mental health concerns. My experience spans different populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and families, with an emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive, and empathetic space for healing and growth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I use a client-centered therapeutic approach, solution-focused, strength-based, and very supportive allowing my clients to find the answers within themselves. I have over 4 years of experience working at the Department of State Hospital as a Clinical Social Worker treating patients suffering from severe mental illness and 5 years working in all five of San Luis Obispo County Hospital's Emergency Departments, specializing in mental health crisis and stabilization.
As an experienced family therapist, I have the skills and knowledge needed to help families navigate even the most challenging situations. What sets me apart is my unique perspective as a former stay-at-home mom to now-grown children, which gives me a deep understanding of the struggles and milestones that families face. If you're looking for a compassionate and experienced therapist who can make a real difference in your family's life, I invite you to consider reaching out to me for help.
VirtualOffers in-person in Encinitas, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hi, my name is Shahnoor! I am an LCSW with a Master's degree from USC and a background in Sociology and Gender Studies from UCLA. My approach to therapy is rooted in decolonized, trauma-informed care that recognizes the intersections of identity, culture, and experience. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their unique challenges, offering a safe and supportive space for healing, growth, and self-discovery. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of life with a focus on empowerment, resilience, and authentic well-being.
If you found your way here, it's likely that you are struggling to form healthy relationships in your adult life. Maybe you feel trapped by your past experiences and can't seem to move beyond them. You may have experienced a loss and are having difficulty navigating your grief. Or you might be unsure of what you are looking for but know that you want to live a more satisfying adult life. Whatever the case may be, we can work through it together. I'd like to help you improve the relationship you have with yourself and others and overcome painful past experiences.
I provide individual therapy virtually and in person to California residents from my offices in West Lake and Los Angeles. I'm trained in the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trauma therapy to address the identity distortions and relational patterns created as a result of childhood trauma.
My approach is heartfelt, connected, and life-affirming. It aims to open your deepest intentions and desires to a life you've always dreamed about and is now possible through your own lived experience.
https://jmtreatment.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTGDpXwbkDA
VirtualOffers in-person in Westlake Village, CA - Accepting clients in CAAvailable
Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my masters degree from Pepperdine University and have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have extensive experience working with children and families who have experienced varying degrees of trauma (abuse, neglect). I enjoy helping adults who have experienced childhood trauma to process their trauma, to understand how their trauma may impact them as an adult and to work towards being their ideal self.
I am a licensed professional in California with extensive experience in the mental health industry. With 6 years of dedicated work and an additional 10 years of complementary experience, I have worked in various settings including the criminal justice system, high-acuity psychiatric units, applied behavioral analysis, geriatrics, substance abuse facilities, and PHP/IOP/RTC levels of care. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.
As a culturally competent therapist, I provide inclusive, affirming care for California residents seeking support in navigating life’s challenges. My approach is integrative and person-centered, blending evidence-based and experiential methods to honor each client’s unique story. I offer virtual sessions in English and Spanish, making therapy accessible and comfortable for clients from diverse backgrounds.
PLEASE NOTE: I am not currently taking on couples at this time.
Providing online therapy throughout California, I work with adults of all ages who find themselves feeling stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, defeated, or frustrated in their experience of daily life and relationships. Having a safe and confidential space to talk about how you're really doing, where all your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be shared and accepted without judgement is an important step in healing past hurts and growing into the person you'd like to become.
Hello, My name is Pavly Abdelmalek and I am a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT). I enjoy using a variety of different approaches to therapy and I will tailor them according your needs. My focus areas of practice will always start with providing a comfortable non-judgmental environment for you accompanied with the highest level of empathy throughout the therapeutic process. I am excited to know your story.