Therapists in California

HI, I am Pat Moriarty. I have been in practice from many years and enjoy seeing clients grow and make the changes in their lives they desire. I have extensive experience with grief therapy, health care issues, and life transitions. I help people understand what and why they are experiencing certain feelings and help alleviate discomfort. I look forward to meeting new people everyday .

You might be in a very dark sad and lonely place, or you may be feeling intense anxiety and sometimes even panic or perhaps you are dealing with a lot of pain and uncertainty due to illness or disability. Right now, you’re at the point of knowing that something has to change, you’re ready but you just don’t know how to do it on your own. You want to feel better. You just want to be yourself again, maybe a different or better version of yourself. As your therapist I can be a flashlight as you walk through this shadowy path that you find yourself on right now. Whether I use solution focused therapy, DBT, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, trauma informed CBT, Emotionally Focused couples therapy or a mix, what matters most is the safe environment we will create so that you can share openly and allow yourself to be vulnerable with someone who will truly listen, support and empower you as you create the best version of yourself possible.

Hi there, I’m glad you’re here! My name is Caitlin, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work with women under the age of 40 in individual therapy who are navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, and hormonal concerns such as PCOS. My approach is rooted in holistic health, blending traditional therapy with Wellness Coaching to help clients cultivate balance and build lasting resilience. I work best with young women who are ready to actively engage in the therapeutic process and take empowered steps toward growth. If you’re seeking to reconnect with your authentic self and support your overall well-being, this may be the right space for you. For clients who desire faith integration as part of their therapeutic journey, I am happy to incorporate that as well. In our sessions, I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Positive Psychology, Sports Psychology, and Solution-Focused approaches—to support meaningful and sustainable growth.

Hi, I am Kristy. As a psychotherapist my approach to therapy for over the last 20 years with individuals, couples and families is rooted in some key elements including building a therapeutic relationship, uncovering unconscious processes, promoting self-reflection and insight, and facilitating emotional processing. As a psychotherapist while working with you, I am dedicated to helping you develop self-awareness, gain insight into your inner world, make lasting changes in your life and create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. By creating a safe and supportive environment I allow you to heal and help overcome challenges, develop healthier coping strategies and achieve therapeutic goals.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Master's degree from California State University, Fresno, and my Doctorate from Walden University in Minnesota. With 18 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their emotional and relational challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering my clients with the tools they need to achieve their personal and interpersonal goals.

I’m Jasmine - a therapist with 20 years experience working in a variety of settings with a passion for helping people feel like the best version of themselves. I completed my graduated studies in Social Work at CSU Long Beach in 2011 and have been licensed in California as a LCSW since 2016. I have also held a Board Certification in Clinical Social Work since 2017. After two decades as a clinical social worker, I still have a passion for mental wellness and heart healing. Thousands of hours of clinical care has taught me that as unique as humans are — we all share the desire to have healthy and fulfilling lives. You can learn more about me, my practice philosophy, and private practice at www.jasmineroselcsw.com.

Hi! I’m Emily Cortés, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a supportive space for individuals to explore challenges and build healthier ways of relating. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood as we work together toward meaningful change. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I’ll meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you’d like to be.

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years. I also hold a Doctorate in Education, with a focus on change and leadership. In my work experience, I have seen a wide range of clients, but my specialties lie in substance abuse/addictions, and working with the Latino and LGBTQ communities. Currently working with only adults. No couples or families.

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I received my Masters in Social Work at California Long Beach. I have experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in crisis and life challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.

¡Hola! My name is Rosa Hernandez. I’m a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, California, offering telehealth services to make support accessible and comfortable. I see therapy as a truly collaborative journey. Together, we work to deepen your self-awareness, explore new perspectives, ease difficult symptoms, and strengthen the qualities you already possess so you can experience life with more clarity, connection, and meaning. My style is warm, engaging, and grounded in treating every person with dignity and respect. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches and tailor our work to fit you. I believe that when we join forces to shift patterns that no longer serve you, real, life-changing growth becomes possible. My goal is to walk alongside you on your path of understanding, healing, and continued personal growth, supporting you every step of the way.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) (LCPC) (LPC) (LMHC) licensed in various states. I received my Masters from Avila University in Kansas City and have been practicing for over a decade. I have adults struggling with life problems and aid them in regaining control over worry, panic, fear, or dread in order to become the best version of themselves.

With over 40 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I aim to help people listen to their inner voice. It is important to develop self-knowledge of the path that feels right for you. Through the years, I have realized that each of us is different. Each of us has a unique biology, neurology, family history, and culture. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment to help clients learn about themselves, find the best way to achieve their goals, and identify.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the State of California. I have been a practicing social worker for 25 years. I primarily work with individuals in their mid-life years, particularly those experiencing major life transitions. I have special training in working with couples navigating new parenthood. I support clients working toward decreasing the external stressors in their lives.

Are you willing to take the first step towards change? If so, I am here to help. I empower individuals to take back control of their lives. Through a collaborative approach, we can identify the issue's you are struggling with and help you find new ways to cope and manage. I am passionate about helping others and will support you on your journey of personal growth. Let’s begin by exploring together and start the healing process today.

I have experience working with children, families, and individuals as a social worker since 2003, and as a licensed clinical social worker since 2017. Prior to training as a therapist I worked as an advocate for children, youth, and families in various community based non-profits. Witnessing families succeed as I helped ease their burdens led me to the path of clinical social work! I consider it a privilege to be invited and entrusted with the task of walking alongside you during a challenging moment in your life. Seeing you grow and succeed is one of the best rewards I could ask for.

I am not only a therapist but a real person. Everyone struggles with mood and thoughts and sometimes we all need help navigating the intensity of these experiences. I hope to be a guide for you as you walk through whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward. This process will be challenging and will take work, however if you take away one thing from reading this, it is that you are not alone and there are people out there waiting to offer help.

Hey now! I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from California Baptist University & have been practicing for 14 years. I help adolescents, adults, couples, & families to work through mental & emotional challenges they are experiencing to help them grow & glow into the best versions of themselves. I'm looking forward to hearing from you & excited to see how I can be of service to you. :)

I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate addiction, anxiety, and life’s most challenging transitions. My journey into this work began with a deep passion for understanding human relationships and the emotional patterns that shape our lives. I currently serve as the Clinical Director of an outpatient addiction and dual-diagnosis treatment facility in Newport Beach, where I support clients with complex co-occurring needs. As an integrative therapist, I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities while emphasizing the mind, body, heart, and spirit connection, informed by my love for and background in ballroom dancing and my training as an integrative nutrition coach. I believe therapy is a collaborative, compassionate process that honors the whole person and supports meaningful, sustainable change, because when the mind is free, the heart remembers how to heal.

Hello, my name is Mario and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2021 but have been working in the mental health field since 2011 in various roles (e.g., Child Specialist, Intensive Care Coordinator) for different programs including Wraparound, IFCCS, Outreach Triage Team and others. Since 2021, I have worked with children and teenagers struggling with PTSD, anxiety and depression. I have also worked with adults all ages starting from 2024 for workers compensation cases, marital problems, men's issues, PTSD, anxiety and depression. I am bi-lingual speaking (English and Spanish) and was raised in Los Angeles.

Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist offering therapy to individuals. I am passionate about reducing the stigma around therapy and creating a supportive space for healing, exploration, and growth. As a grounded therapist I seek to help clients navigate life’s challenges with insight, clarity, and accountability. With over 15 years of clinical experience that spans diverse settings, including community mental health, high-crisis inpatient care, and residential programs for foster youth. I have supported individuals and families facing anxiety, depression, blended family dynamics, neurodivergence, and significant life transitions such as loss, incarceration, or shifting roles within family structure.

If your life isn't all that you dream and imagine it to be; If you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health; If you find it hard to be kind to yourself; If you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in... Contact me so we can work together. "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain" My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist who assists individuals in moving through crisis and change. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist who works in the mental health field for over 8 years. I have worked with many adults, seniors, children, families, couples, etc. My goal is to help you achieve and live the life you want and deserve, and I do this by helping you remove the blocks of personal growth, improve relationships with yourself and others, and find relief from your struggles. （中文/En）

I am a seasoned LMFT with 25 years experience treating chronic/acute mental health concerns, addiction, trauma, process addictions. I have experience as a senior executive in corporate environments. I have been trained in a variety of modalities over the years, so we can choose the best approach for you. I am a compassionate yet direct person, so that comes through in my work with clients.

My name is Lisa Swedlow and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Southern California. In therapy sessions, I take an action-oriented approach using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions to enhance self-awareness, expression, and acceptance. I also utilize EMDR for clients who struggle with trauma. I have worked in Southern California addiction treatment centers for 10 years, so I am well versed in helping clients overcome their addictions to alcohol and drugs.

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read about me. My name is Emily Cortez and I am an LMFT in CA. It is my hope to connect with you in a warm, supportive space to help process and tackle the many challenges that life throws at us. I have been practicing in the field going on 5 years now and have experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjustment/life transitions, trauma, and grief/loss.

Profile: Hi there and welcome! My name is Michelle, and I'm glad you found your way here. Life has a way of introducing anxiety, stress, trauma, and grief when we least expect it. I'm here to support you in returning to a place where you feel safe, self-aware, and empowered. I believe we all have the capacity to be self-healers. I've worked in several realms of healing and medicine for more than 12 years, and I approach my therapeutic connections with warmth and curiosity. I lovingly encourage you to come as you are. My goal is to know you, not change you, and support whichever problems you feel ready to address with transparency and authenticity. I have experience working with adults, teens, groups, couples, families, first responders and military, in managing struggles that come with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, addiction, self-acceptance and identity-questioning, grief, life adjustments, and women's, LGBTQIA+, or BIPOC issues. We will work toward your goals using mindfulness , trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and gestalt therapy with plenty of education along the way. I believe regular feedback is imperative in creating the awareness needed to shift subconscious patterns to conscious choices. Everyone deserves the chance to live their lives in their truest form, with care, respect, and self-confidence. *Currently only accepting referrals for individual therapy (18+)*

Raquel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing mental health services for the past 8 years. Overall, she has 15 years of experience in the social work field. Raquel has worked in several settings such as child welfare, mental health agencies, and in the public school setting as a school social worker. Raquel's experiences have provided her with skills and tools to understand the needs of her clients. On a personal note, she has been married for 15 years and is the mother of 4 children.

Hi! This is Snow Lee, I have over 10+ years working with individuals and providing human service. My background consists of working in different settings such as inpatient, outpatient, and crisis. I have experience and understanding of working with individuals from a diverse background. I start my work by collaborating with my clients working through their current issues and helping them identify its root cause. We work together by becoming aware and conscious of their thoughts, behaviors, & emotions and it its influences and relation to their root issues.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an integrative approach to my work. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral therapy, anxiety, grief, art therapy, stress management, mindfulness and guided imagery. I have a collaborative client-centered approach, which is warm, safe, empathetic and non-judgmental. I help you discover your own insight, cultivate strengths and find meaning and purpose for a more balanced life.

I have been providing mental health services since 2003. Throughout my career I have worked communities large and small and have provided services to client of all ages and clinical presentations. I have worked with Foster Youth struggling with attachment all the way to helping Older Adults find purpose and meaning. I specialize in trauma, particularly that which occurs in the context of the relationship. I enjoy working with couples and individuals struggling in relationships. I like to focus on promoting healthy connections with others and how to ensure this creates a lasting structure to manage life's challenges. In addition to this I encourage areas of strength to ensure our life has purpose.

Hello and thank you so much for having enough courage and honesty to take the first big step. My name is Erlynn Cabarles, LCSW and I have a Master’s in Social Work from SFSU. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2015. I have 20 plus years of experience in the mental health field and I believe that the first step of healing is self-discovery and the development of personal goals to overcome challenges. My intentions are to instill hope and inspiration and to empower you to be able to move on to a more fulfilling life. Remember that You are resilient and determined to change for the positivity. My purpose is to provide a safe space and non-judgmental environment. If you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you on your journey towards healing!

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I offer therapy sessions online via video on weeknights and Saturday. I received my Master from the National University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety and depression to learn coping strategies so that they can become the better versions of themselves as well as an ability to regulate their mood.

Hi there! Nice to e-meet you. My name is Liza, pronounced Lisa, last name Castro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am not your ordinary therapist and will always be honest and truthful with you, even if it may sting just a little, but positive outcomes are always the goal. Change is never comfortable and neither is being confronted with the truth and lets be honest, both perspectives can and will hurt. If this is what you need, then I am who you seek. I am a great coach and cheerleader. I will help you understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors and help you explore how to become the best version of you. I am here to help you win in your own way; one choice and one session at a time. I am currently seeing clients on Mondays VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY. I will be seeing clients via telehealth and in-office Tuesday through Saturdays. Keep in mind I do work with a few other organizations, so scheduling will be sporadic and clients have the autonomy to schedule where openings are available. I am located in North County San Diego and hope to see you online or in person soon!

Hello, I'm Georgina! I have had numerous experiences and training opportunities throughout my career. I have served as Lead Pediatric Therapist, Group Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor. I have worked in both intensive inpatient settings and with people with mild, temporary issues. I am licensed in Nevada and California and am certified in several evidence-based practices. Feel free to send me a message to see if we might be a good fit.

Freddie Eugene Williams, LMFT, LAADC. I'm a California and Arizona Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor specializing in addictions. Self-care, self-awareness, relationships, and behavior change are the most important aspects of mental wellness and recovery. I treat Adult Men only. I will meet you where you are on your healing journey, explore your mental wellness goals, and help you improve the quality of your life (I do not provide therapy with a female client).

Let me start by saying self-care is the one thing that we can do for ourselves, but is usually the last thing we do for ourselves. So, congratulations for taking the first steps in caring for yourself. The journey of therapy is not easy. There will be times when it gets exhausting but as you continue through your path the answers will be revealed through the work you complete with your therapist. It is a privilege and honor to walk the journey. As a therapist, I have worked with a plethora of clients from couples counseling, to adolescent, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Welcome, I'm Michelle Ulloa. Life can sometimes feel heavy, leaving us disconnected from ourselves, our relationships, and the joy we once felt. If you’re noticing that spark fading, I want you to know you don’t have to go through this alone. In therapy, my goal is to walk alongside you as we explore the challenges holding you back and uncover the strengths within you. Together, we’ll discover what’s not working in your life and build on what does, so you can move toward greater balance, clarity, and fulfillment.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from the Holy Names University and have been practicing for 6 years helping to bring healing and hope to clients that seek support to reach desired outcomes in all areas of their life. I meet with clients in office and via telehealth. Feel free to contact to schedule a brief consultation via phone to learn more about my services.

Hello. Are you experiencing low energy, low motivation, trouble sleeping, irritability, poor concertation? or feeling sad, worried, anxious or stressed about your negative/intrusive thoughts? The truth is, that everyone experiences Anxiety or Depression at some point in their life, but these conditions are treatable and you do not have to go through them alone. I am here to help. My name is Tina. I am a Latina, a mother and a therapist with 20 years of experience treating children and adults with Anxiety and/or Depression. I also specialize in Maternal Mental Health and/or any other issue related to pregnancy and motherhood. I would love to help you find calmness, balance and a more positive approach to coping with life stressors that often create Anxiety and/or Depression.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in helping those in need of healing and coping with life issues and struggles that may interfere with daily living. My therapy approach is to build a relationship with my clients and create a safe space to allow clients to feel comfortable enough and trust in when sharing difficult emotions.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's in 2014 and have been practicing for 11 years. I help adults manage their stressors in life and help them reduce their symptoms to be successful in their own life. I have experience working with children from 4 years old to older adults of the age of 80 years old.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and I value using a whole-person and empathic approach in every session. As an LCSW, my goal is to help individuals improve their mental health, address relationship difficulties, and adjust to challenging life changes. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and client-centered perspective, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused and Strength-Based interventions

There is always room for growth no matter what age or where you are in life. It is my mission to help people in their personal growth and reach their full potential. I genuinely care for others and provide a safe and non-judgmental space for healing. Life can get overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Through the Rogerian approach, I meet people where they’re at, being compassionate and warm, yet honest and straightforward. As a therapist I love utilizing a combination of therapeutic techniques from person-centered, CBT, TF-CBT, mindfulness, REBT, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, Gestalt and other modalities that have research proven results. Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you want to live.

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.

Hello, my name is Nicole and welcome to my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist. I am looking to work with individuals ready to create meaningful change, seek greater self understanding and improve their overall well-being. I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space that encourages collaboration and self growth. My approach is client-centered, blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change unhelpful thought patterns, while combining mindfulness where we work to observe thoughts, reduce stress and enhance emotional regulation skills. Together we will uncover practical tools for lasting change.

Hello! My name is Bianca Quintero, and I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) CA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently offering online faith-based therapy. Serving in this profession brings me both joy and honor as I am devoted to assisting individuals not just in surviving, but in thriving. With a unique blend of clinical expertise and spiritual guidance, I offer compassionate support to navigate life's complexities. My mission is to foster a nurturing environment where you feel not only accepted but also empowered. I am dedicated to providing steadfast support, encouragement, and the necessary tools to overcome life's obstacles. Healing and renewal will only take place when we fully embrace who we are in Christ and allow His loving hand to walk us through long lasting transformation. With compassion and empathy, I'm here to accompany you on this journey. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you through life's beautiful yet challenging moments.

I am a bilingual psychotherapist and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem issues. I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and respect. I am passionate about utilizing evidence-based strategies to help clients successfully reach their treatment goals. I utilize a compassionate and client-centered approach, empowering and supporting clients toward healing and change. Let's talk about enhancing your emotional well-being and how I can support you in designing a life you love living!

Gracias por estar aquí, thanks for being here! La terapia puede ofrecerte un espacio seguro para hablar sobre lo que está sucediendo en tu vida y explorar estrategias que te apoyan. It’s understandable to need support when you’re feeling challenged by stress, anxiety, low mood, or difficulties within relationships. Therapy can offer a supportive space to develop strategies that support your well-being.

 Love and work are essential to a meaningful life. Relationships with others define experience and work gives a sense of purpose. Disturbance in these affect well being and contribute to an overwhelmed response leading to collapse. As trauma is relational so is recovery and healing. Having the right therapeutic alliance is a key element and requires, attunement and constistency.  James has over 17 years of clinical experience treating diverse individuals in a variety of settings. As a Mind-Body-Awareness trained therapist, he works with adults having problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In addition to having a graduate degree in Social Work from San Jose State University; he also attended years of practicum training from the following: Certification in Somatic Experiencing from SE Trauma Institute; Sierra Institute for Contemporary Gestalt Training; Professional Training in Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Experiential Psychotherapy Santa Cruz; iRest Integrative Restoration, an evidence informed meditation practice for trauma; Certification in Satyananda Yoga Nidra; and Completion of 500 hours of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training. 

Hi, I’m Jacob Mooradian. I earned my bachelor’s degree from CSU Fullerton and my master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University, where I focused on mental health and supporting people through life’s challenges. I take a down-to-earth, non-directive approach rooted in CBT, helping you understand the patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so you can eventually become your own therapist. I love bringing in media like movies, TV shows, sports, and current trends to make our conversations relatable, engaging, and grounded in real life. My goal is to validate your experiences, help you gain clarity, and build practical tools you can use every day. I want therapy to feel like a space where you can show up exactly as you are and move at a pace that feels right for you. Together, we’ll create a warm, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow with confidence and independence.

Hi, I'm Bernard, I am a licensed therapist that has experience working with adolescence 14-17, young adults 18-26, & adults ages 27-32 seeking relief from anxiety, depression, and life transitions in sessions (I do not currently take clients under the age of "14” or over the age of 32 years old for virtual therapy), I like to walk with my clients through their therapeutic journey’s no matter the difficulty. I am a client centered therapist maintaining the belief that every client no matter their age is the expert at their own existence and has the ability to heal. I utilize humor when appropriate to strengthen therapeutic bonds to understand clients as a person and work with them through their own solutions pertaining to their specific challenges. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, & adults through difficulties with daily life challenges such as interpersonal relationships, family conflicts, life transitions, intimate partner challenges, academic, & career-related stress. I use a humanistic approach to my therapeutic style to explore what works best for clients. Some of the basic orientations I utilize are Mindfulness, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy techniques. My specific therapy style assists clients in their journey and helps individuals understand thoughts, feelings, reactions, and responses, aiding with healing and growth. This can lead to a life that feels more grounded, joyful, and meaningful. I have experience working as an intensive outpatient therapist providing individual therapy, group therapy, and case management. I have experience working with children, teens, adults and their families as an Elementary, Middle, High School special education/general education, and adult inpatient therapist. I have worked with individuals from various walks of life, various spiritual beliefs, gender orientations, and a variety of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.