Therapists in California

Life often brings us questions—the "whys" behind our anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles. We try to make sense of the senseless, but the answers remain elusive. My practice, WhysCounselor, acknowledges the "whys" that bring you to therapy while guiding you to discover your deeper, motivating "why"—your reason for seeking change. Here’s the truth: while we may never answer every "why," we absolutely can change how those unanswered questions have affected you. You might think that if others would change, or if your difficult feelings would just disappear, things would be better. But there is one thing you can change that will fundamentally improve everything: the way you see yourself. I work with people dealing with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues who are motivated and ready to do the work. My focus is on helping you manage symptoms and find practical tools for daily life. Make meaningful changes in your behaviors to reflect the person you want to be. Heal the most neglected relationship in your life: the one with yourself. Our work together will be about building a healthy relationship with yourself first. This is the solid foundation for having healthier relationships with others and making lasting changes. Let me help you shift from the focus on the unmanageable "whys" to the empowering "hows" of healing and growth. I hold an M.S. in Counseling Psychology and a B.A. in Psychology. I am trained in Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or Tapping), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and have been practicing for 15+ years. I help adults struggling with stress and burnout, anxiety, depression and self esteem issues become the best versions of themselves. I help clients work through trauma related issues in order love a full life with positive projections in their life.

Hello, my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey. My specialty is in the area of child abuse, parenting, trauma domestic violence and substance abuse, child abuse issues. I know how to navigate in this area . My experience working in the area of mental health disorders such as bipolar, depression, anxiety and as a facilitator and at a mental health hospital. I have a caring and friendly nature. I will help you learn to put tools in your tool box to make changes in life. I am ready to help and assist you. Let's work together to help you make changes and experience life in a more positive way. You can talk openly and honestly with me and share whatever is on your mind.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My passion for counseling started in 6th grade where I was nominated to be a peer counselor and I saw the power of how communication, active reflective listening and conflict resolution could shift relationships. I grew up in a chaotic household and studying psychology helped me to develop compassion, empathy and understanding where there was profound pain. My own experience with trauma, depression and anxiety helps me to understand clients from a lived perspective.

Greetings and salutations! I want to start by congratulating you on taking the first step of putting YOU first. I know making this choice may have been difficult, but I am glad you are here. My name is Jamie Kirk! I am a Los Angeles native, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Life Coach, Author, and Ordained Minister. I have been an asset to the mental health community for over 10 years, helping clients overcome depression and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Hey there! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist from California with 40+ years of diving deep into mental health, spiced with a dash of international flair. My journey has taken me through a Psy.D. program to complete in Clinical Psychology, a master's in Counseling Psychology, and a bachelor's in Sociology. Living and working across the globe has fine-tuned my knack for connecting with people from all walks of life. I'm all about helping you find your ‘Zen’ again, mixing and matching the best bits from CBT and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy to create a chill, judgment-free zone where we can work things out together.

Hello my name is Virginia Myricks, LMFT and my goal is to encourage, challenge and empower you to uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I understand that every individual struggles with life challenges in their own unique way and it would be my pleasure to work with you on identifying your goals, offering treatment interventions that are best suited to your individual needs and to assist you in experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Hello, my name is Tenisha Seniguar-Morakinyo, LPCC License#13468 with over 12 years of experience working with diverse populations. My approach to therapy is every individual is valuable and deserves to be heard and treated with dignity and respect by taking a non-judgmental stance. I respect clients' legal rights to confidentiality to create a safe environment to develop trust and a strong therapeutic alliance.

Welcome! I'm LaToya Sykes, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Northern California. You've made it to the first step of self-improvement! I understand how this process can be overwhelming and empowering, all at the same time. There may be some doubt in this process, but I want to let you know that you are not alone and I am here to support you every step of the way. I follow the client-centered approach in our sessions, therefore, you will be the leader of your treatment goals. I will empower and guide you throughout this journey. I will provide a safe environment so you can explore life challenges, concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, racial issues, and relationship stressors, plus more. I will guide you to identify triggers, understand your symptoms and how to regain control of your life. We will work together to create healthy coping strategies and ways to build healthy relationships in all aspects of life. We will create a plan to navigate life and the challenges that come along with it. The choice is yours to decide what the overall treatment plan will be and I will support you with the customization. You are the leader in your treatment. Schedule your initial session and lets get started today with making a difference in your life and creating a healthy environment for you to thrive. Hope to see you soon.

Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

I'd say my upbringing inspired me from my home to school. I have seen and heard mental health being mentioned as important and encouraged to take care of. I'd say full circle of having gone to therapy, becoming a therapist, and providing therapy is rewarding in itself, I'd have to put a paragraph explaining why, so I'll leave it as that. I look at therapy as a unique relationship that both mirrors and overlaps qualities of a good friend, parent, sibling, partner, etc., where both the therapist and client focus on tackling the concerns he/she presents in therapy.

I am honored to be on this journey with you in therapy. I am a therapist who believes that healing begins with feeling seen, safe, and understood. My approach is gentle, compassionate, and grounded in curiosity--never judgment. I create a space where you can slow down, breathe, and explore what's been heavy at your own pace. Whether you're navigating past trauma, burnout, or a season of change, my goal is to help you reconnect with your sense of self and feel more at peace within. In our work together, you'll find warmth, understanding, and a space that honors your story.

My name is Percival Fisher, Jr. However, you can call me "Percy" and I have been providing individual and group psychotherapy for 12 years. I am here to assist you in reaching your goals in therapy. I provide a safe, warm, and interactive space to talk about your presenting issues. I have experience providing therapy to individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, "coming out"/LGBTQIA-related issues, and family conflicts.

I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

I am warm, DIRECT, solution-focused, AUTHENTIC, mildly confrontational and 100% Raw and Real. I won't lie to you or co-sign lies you tell yourself. I will gently reflect what you are not saying and what you are not showing so that you can explore for yourself. The intention of services provided to present and future clients are to support them in navigating through the pain. The only way out is through. Not above, below, or around the pain but through it. The good news is you are not alone and don’t have to do it alone. Utilize the resources offered in this collaborative effort in creating the life (mind, body, & soul) you deserve.

Hi, I’m Meashline Faith Komara, LCSW, a psychotherapist. I work with adults, couples, and families who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by stress, trauma, or life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel truly heard and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. I use a mix of evidence-based approaches—like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care—while honoring your unique experiences, culture, and strengths. Together, we’ll work toward helping you understand yourself better, build confidence, and create meaningful changes that lead to a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

Greetings, My name is Kimberly Merritt Barrett and I grew in a small rural area in SW Georgia. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have a plethora of experience in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, High School Counseling; Self Esteem; Body Imaging; Self-Awareness, Couples Therapy, Anger Mgmt, Grief/Loss, Relational Issues; etc. My functional statement in this field and what has kept me grounded is: To help someone, you must have been helped at some point in your life. We all need support and a clear vision to operate in this thing called 'life'. I am sorry to inform you I do not submit letters/recommendations for you to be off of work.

My name is Crystal Gee, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have worked in the Human Service field for over 20 years with the past 10 years working in Mental Health. I am well-versed in treating clients that suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral disruption, grief, anger management, mood disorders, and suicidal ideations. I focus on increasing effective solutions by increasing problem-solving skills, communication skills, social skills, self-esteem and emotional identification.

Hello! Beginning September 23rd, I will have availability on Tuesdays only. 5pm: weekly or bimontly appointments 6pm: weekly or bimonthly appointments 7pm: weekly or bimontly appointmets If you have a question about a particular day/time, please feel free to message me. My name is I'm DuJuana Ware. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) with a faith-based (Christian) background. I am licensed in California and Texas and currently provide only virtual sessions. I reside in the state of Texas which means I follow Central Standard Time (CST) for scheduling. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or sad? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and confidence? You are not alone. My goal is to help you become your BEST self. Together, we can identify what you feel is not working and address the WHY behind it. We will use a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies with a client-centered focus to improve how you see yourself and experience life. Creating a more balanced view of yourself will enhance your relationship to self and empower your relationships and communication with others. Whether you are struggling with being a teenager or #adulting at any age, I am here to help. Let's GROW!

Bio: Demetric Marsh, LCSW, JD “Dee” is a dedicated behavioral health professional with over 25 years of experience. Her experience includes Psychotherapist; Program Director; Manager/Supervisor of Clinical Services; Adjunct Professor; Consultant; and LCSW Clinical Supervision. She has a Juris Doctor Law Degree from the Jacob D. Fuschberg Law School in NY and she is a multistate licensed LCSW. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the Adelphi University- School of Social Work in NY with a specialization in mental health and addictions She holds a BA from Hofstra University in NY with a Major in Sociology and a Minor in Political Science and French Language/Culture. Dee has direct practice experience with individuals, families, couples and group work. Practice specialties include foster care/adoptions; anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, spirituality, employment/workplace issues; addictions; grief/loss; court-ordered assessments/recommendations; diversity/inclusion/cultural issues.

My name is Tomekia Edwards. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Texas and California) with over 14 years of experience. I've worked in inpatient behavioral health, mobile psychiatric assessment, and HIV case management capacities. I've also worked with service members and their families around issues related to military life. Typical concerns I address through counseling include anxiety, depression, work/school stressors, and relationship stressors. I provide services based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused approaches with years of experience working with adults, children, families, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

I am an African American female Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Los Angeles. I have experience working with clients with issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, panic attacks, divorce, grief and loss, ODD, ADHD, Autism, sexual and physical abuse, crisis, childhood trauma, career challenges, life event changes, social skills, and self esteem. My specialty is working with adolescents and women specifically due to my professional background and personal experiences which I use to guide my practice. I am a expert in helping adolescents navigate the difficulties and challenges that come with transitioning into adulthood such as: identity formation, sexuality, family issues, peer pressure, and developing short and long term career goals. As a woman of color, I also have a special ability to connect, guide and support women struggling with various interpersonal and intrapersonal issues i.e self esteem, termination of a relationship, communication skills, career changes, sexism, intimate partner conflict or life’s obstacles due to systemic racism that may affect them in various aspects of their daily lives. My approach to therapy combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic/Person Centered counseling with a socially/ culturally competent and Trauma -Informed lens to help the client not only recognize their strengths, but also utilize existing support systems, develop new coping skills, effectively respond to crisis and empower the client/family/couple to recognize the solution to their problem already exist inside themselves. I am also a EMDR trained clinician. My personal mantra in counseling is “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” ~Norman Vincent Peale. I look forward to working with you

Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.

Welcome to Dr. Mitchell’s Safe and Brave Space I began my career in social services in 1995, working with children, youth, and families often labeled as “at-risk”—many of whom were impacted by substance use, poverty, child abuse, and neglect. Over time, my commitment to equity and justice led me to the field of social work, where I continue to center the person-in-environment perspective and actively support antiracist policies, ideas, and actions. This work is grounded in an acknowledgment that we live and practice on the stolen lands of Indigenous peoples, and that much of the wealth and infrastructure of this nation was built through the unpaid labor and enduring suffering of enslaved Africans. I honor these histories and their ongoing impact as part of my commitment to justice, healing, and collective liberation. I am deeply committed to self-awareness and reflective practice, both personally and with those I serve. I walk alongside clients on a healing journey rooted in self-care, resilience, and transformation. I integrate narrative therapy and other evidence-informed approaches through the lens of intersectionality to remain fully person-centered. My practice pays particular attention to the impacts of trauma and race-based stress on one’s inner world. As appropriate, I incorporate Feminist Theory, Queer Theory, and Liberation Psychology to support healing that honors identity, lived experience, and systemic context. I welcome all who value peace, healing, and justice to join me in this space—to try, to grow, and to be.

Greetings, my name is Dr. Katherine Andrade, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 28 years of experience working in Medical, Health, Mental Health, and Substance Use. I have worked as a school, mental health, medical, and military social worker. I have a Master's and Doctorate degrees in Social Work. I specialize in working with adults/seniors with mental health and substance use challenges as well as family issues, stress, adjusting to medical challenges, and military/veteran issues.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience helping individuals and families overcome challenges related to trauma, family dynamics, cultural barriers, depression, anxiety, and anger. My passion lies in empowering clients to reach their goals through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. In my private practice, I offer evidence-based individual, family, and group psychotherapies via tele-mental health technologies such as Video On Demand (VOD) and Zoom. This allows clients to express themselves in an objective and non-judgmental environment as they embark on their journey to healing. My real-world approach ensures that clients receive practical and effective support.

My name is Alanna Walker, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Las Vegas, Nevada. I currently provide telehealth services to clients in California and have experience offering both in-person and virtual therapy in Nevada. I’m certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and domestic violence intervention, and I also have specialized training in substance use disorders and addiction.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 7 years of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have provided therapeutic services for adhd, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family conflict, grief, and trauma. I focus on healing, challenging negative thoughts, and establishing new healthy perceptions. I look forward to meeting with you on GROW!

Hey! My name is Kiaundra Jackson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, California. I received my Master's Degree from Azusa Pacific University in 2014 and I have been practicing for 9 years. I transform the lives of those struggling to achieve a more fulfilled, meaningful life emotionally, relationally, physically, spiritually and mentally by using a strong therapeutic approach and reality.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with about 15 years of experience helping people navigate life’s challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including mobile crisis, inpatient care, corrections, and community mental health, so I understand how complex and overwhelming things can get. My approach is down to earth, practical, and tailored to what works best for you. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I am here to help you build the tools to move forward.

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

My name is Palei, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but my approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. My passion is helping people create a safe space to explore, process, and better understand the complexity of who they are. I consider myself an unorthodox therapist—I self-disclose when it’s appropriate, because I want my clients to know I’m a real person, not a detached clinician. My own life experiences, from childhood to now, have shaped a deep sense of empathy and authenticity in the way I show up for others. What sets me apart is my positive attitude and the fact that I practice what I teach. The same skills I share with clients are ones I use daily in my own life, and they’ve allowed me to create a life worth living. I’ll never ask something of my clients that I wouldn’t ask of myself, and I believe that makes our work together grounded, genuine, and collaborative.

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

The focus of my practice is centered on healing childhood wounds, and holding intention for my clients to be witnessed. I hold space to process through childhood abuse and other adverse childhood experiences, to explore on a deeper level how one's childhood impacts present day. What childhood wounds are manifesting in ways that no longer serve you? As an adult child-survivor, I hold a deep passion for those who have made the vulnerable choice to heal from the pains of their childhood. One life chapter at a time. Remember: The trauma that happened to you is not your fault, but what a gift to give yourself to lean into the responsibility of healing from it. Inner-Child Work framework includes: Narrative sharing, trauma and attachment work, CBT, ACT, experience validation, the practice of letting go, the practice of reclaiming, and accountability work.

I am a cultivator and conduit for change. Change is not always an easy process, but most individuals seek therapy because they want something to change in their current life. I don't believe in disorders, I believe that there are behaviors that may not be allowing you to fully experience your life that need to be positioned correctly for you to move forward. I am just the guide to help you along your journey of change. It is hard work, but in the end, it will be worth your time and effort. I am skilled in trauma recovery and I can assist you with working through the most difficult situations and circumstances in your life.

First, let’s take a moment to say “good for you” for making the choice to take your therapy journey. Therapy has many faces and is different for every person, so it’s important to figure out what therapy means for you. Whether you’re experiencing challenges with depression and anxiety, wanting to work through trauma, or dealing with life changes, know that this is your process. I am here to help support you as we venture out together during your unique journey. I am here to provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental space filled with the supports and skills for coping so that you can accomplish your goals. I have worked with various cultures, age groups, and ethnicities across a variety of challenges, including: trauma, depression, anxiety, stage of life changes, identity, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, and more. I have gained certifications in TFCBT, MAP, and IPT evidenced-based practice models and have 10yrs of experience. I wholeheartedly believe that it is incredibly important to choose the therapist that fits best with you and hope we have the opportunity to connect to help you reach and attain what you envision for your journey.

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

Hi, I’m Marvin West, a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist with training in Expressive Arts. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for growth, healing, and self-discovery. You are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to meet you where you are—through the highs and the lows—offering guidance and support along the way. Let’s take this journey together to create a brighter, healthier future for you.

I am a highly accomplished Licensed, Marriage, and Family Therapist with over 28 years of experience in managing challenging behaviors and helping individuals with ongoing significant social/emotional skill deficits, and/or mental health needs. Along with working with youth from many cultures and economic backgrounds, I also have over 20 years’ experience supervising and managing adults in the education field. My years of experience working for school districts, private practice settings, group homes and currently as a mental health administrator provide clients with a clinician who has a broad range of experience.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology Counseling from Mt. ST. Mary's University in Los Angeles and have been practicing for 15 years. I facilitate insight into problematic issues in your life transition towards a life worth living. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I help recognize unhealthy patterns of thoughts and behaviors.

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

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 14 years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida and am currently licensed to practice in Florida, Maine, Virginia, Arizona, and Colorado. While I reside in Florida, I work with clients across these states through telehealth. My approach is compassionate and collaborative—I believe in helping clients recognize their own strengths and inner resilience to create meaningful change. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I'm here to support you in finding balance, clarity, and healing.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals facing a variety of life challenges. I specialize in using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help clients achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University and my master’s degree from Florida International University. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore your strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful change.

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.