Therapists near me in San Diego, CA

I am a Licensed Clinician in California, with over three decades of clinical experience. I specialize in culturally competent, Christian-integrated, strength-based therapy. My approach combines Biblical principles, Christian values, wisdom, and clinical expertise to support those seeking healing through a holistic and compassionate framework. I offer culturally competent therapeutic interventions, respecting all cultures and emphasizing the client's strengths as the foundation for overcoming challenges.

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’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health and healthcare. My clinical background includes eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, medical and chronic health concerns, and major life transitions. I also hold a Master’s in Public Health from the University of California, Berkeley, which informs my whole-person approach to mental health and wellbeing. I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and comfortable being yourself.

I’m Maria J Gonzales, a Bilingual Therapist (English and Spanish). Licencsed in California and Texas. Reflecting on your life takes courage and bravery. Seeking help can be scary and confusing, but it's an important step towards improvement. I create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life stressors, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. When you are ready to share, I am available.

I am an LCSW (License Clinical Social Worker) with over 19 years of experience in the field of mental health and I have been licensed since 2010. I have worked in crisis behavioral health hospitals with both adults and adolescents, outpatient community mental health clinics and in hospice. I have also worked at the University of Michigan counseling center with undergraduate and graduate students. I have extensive experience in relationship/communication issues, trauma work, infertility and miscarriage counseling, parenting, grief work, life transitions, depression and anxiety. I studied social work at the University of Michigan and completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Washington.

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

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.

Hello I am a dedicated therapist who graduated from Antioch University in 2012 . I have worked at Las Encinas Hospital for 11 years before working for online platforms. I am committed to providing therapy to motivated individuals and couples. I provide a safe space for clients to share with me and we work together to achieve therapeutic goals. I enjoy helping clients discover coping skills which will make their life easier and more enjoyable. I enjoy working with anxiety, OCD, depression ,trauma, and substance abuse.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State University of Long Beach. I have over 5 years working in outpatient and inpatient medical settings. I have worked as medical and mental health social worker. I have experienced working with adults, older adults dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use, life changes and other challenges.

I am a licensed MFT clinician in California with 7 years of eclectic psychotherapy work experience. I thrive on collaborating/working with clients to help them process and manage stress, interpersonal issues, symptoms of anxiety and depression, a distorted sense of self, trauma from individual/familial abuse as well as the systemic factors therein, schizophrenia spectrum challenges/symptoms, and personality disorders (e.g., antisocial personality disorder and borderline personality disorder). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion while maintaining strong/healthy boundaries. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs as we work through what you desire to focus on. I have worked with a variety of clients in different mental health organizations and schools throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles County. I am comfortable and have experience working with trauma-related stress disorders, isolation/loneliness and suicidal thoughts. I treat both adults and older teens (18 and over) through individual psychotherapy. I ask (Socratic) questions based on therapeutic timing and will provide evidence-based psychoeducation when needed, always moving the session with clinical intuition as the process unfolds.

I am a psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide teletherapy to adult individuals and couples residing in California. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem issues, chronic illness, LGBTQ issues, career concerns, life transitions, relationship issues with partners, family members, and parent/child conflict. My methods of therapy include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radical Acceptance, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Directed Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Interpersonal (Talk) Therapy.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), based in California. I received my MSSA in "Mental Health" from the Case Western Reserve University, and I have been practicing for the last ten years+. I help clients who are struggling with stress, anxiety and/or depression, heal and become the best versions of themselves. I also have extensive experience in working with adults who are survivors of domestic violence (DV), intimate partner violence (IPT), and those who are suffering from symptoms of PTSD. I also enjoy working with families who may be experiencing triangulation and communication difficulties. My preferred clinical approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness meditation embedded in DBT, Narrative Therapy, and psycho-dynamic therapy. Finally, I view my clients from a holistic perspective so that I can understand what barriers may be restricting you from experiencing true happiness in life.

Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. I've worked in many different clinical and medical settings ever since. I have experience leading clients through of issues including trauma, life transitions, grief, women's issues, sexuality, depression, general anxiety and somatic challenges. Through many years of clinical practice I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives. I practice an eclectic approach, bringing a variety of therapeutic techniques to address the needs of the individual, but always assess where one in the process of addressing change. I am fully committed to listen and offer my best professional practices to help you. You can count on my empathetic and person-centered approach towards every conversation we take part on. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey. Look forward to meeting you!

Hello, I am Luis Martinez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I have been serving my community helping families and individuals for over 8 years. Whether it's helping people with simple day to day stressors or deeper rooted concerns, there's an approach and solution to the problem. Together we can focus on building strengths and help facilitate positive change to help empower you moving forward in your life.

Hi I'm Natalya Kuzmicheva, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from California State University of Los Angeles. I have been practicing for 14 years helping clients, young and mature, to balance their emotions, to explore obstacles and challenges, and to find a unique way to overcome them. I also have an experience of being trained and working with clients suffering with consequences of trauma.

As your therapist, I bring a caring and warm presence to every session, creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. At the same time, I’m goal-oriented and committed to helping you make meaningful progress toward the changes you want to see in your life. Together, we'll work at your pace to achieve growth and healing. Over the years, I've supported individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate their unique paths toward healing and personal growth. My approach is adaptable, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based practices tailored to your specific needs.

Hello! My name is Brenda and I am a licensed clinical social worker. As a dedicated and empathetic mental health professional with over 7 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate their emotional and psychological challenges. My journey into therapy began with a profound personal interest in understanding human behavior and a desire to support others in their pursuit of mental well-being.

My name is Ani and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Bachelor's degree from UCLA in 2007 and obtained my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in 2010. I have experience providing individual and family therapy, case management and crisis intervention. I am trained/certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Managing and Adapting Practice, The Nurturing Parenting Program, Seeking Safety and Child and Parent Psychotherapy.

Hello, I’m Sascha, If you’re here, you’ve already taken an important step toward prioritizing your mental health. Beginning therapy can bring up a mix of emotions...empowerment, uncertainty, even hesitation—and all of that is valid. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes work in county-based services, nonprofit mental health, foster care, and school settings. These experiences have allowed me to support individuals across a wide range of needs and life circumstances. I believe that people generally have an internal sense of what they need and where they want to go, but at times can feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. My role is to help you gain clarity around what may be contributing to that feeling and to work collaboratively with you to develop practical, meaningful ways to navigate challenges. Life stressors such as relationship dynamics, limited support systems, past experiences, and difficulties with emotional regulation can all impact our ability to function in the ways we want. In our work together, I aim to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can explore these areas and move toward greater stability, insight, and fulfillment.

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

My name is Patricia Pasillas (LCSW) and I'm a first generation Latina located here in the heart of Southern California. Throughout the last 17 years of my career as a licensed clinical social worker I've build a solid reputation for not only breaking down the barriers within society but it's my eagerness to help open the doors for others that truly separates me from others in this line of work.

Hello all, I am Rachel! I’m a compassionate, collaborative Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides a space where clients can feel supported and understood. My practice focuses on helping adults and adolescents navigate a variety of issues that are impacting quality of life and functioning, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship challenges, and grief and loss. I take a client-centered, strengths-based approach and work collaboratively with each person to develop practical tools and meaningful strategies that support lasting growth and well-being.

Good day to you, my name is Mario Palacios I am a LMFT. I have been a therapist for over 25 years. I have had my practice since 2011. In that time, I have learned and have continued to learn what it takes to become a more effective therapist. During this time, I have treated many people with various issues/challenges that have resulted in positive outcomes. The most important impact for me is being able to see when my client has been able to make changes in their lives where they have improved themselves, found more clarity and continue to seek more improvement.

My approach is the culmination of over 20 years of personal experience, study and work in the fields of social worker and therapies . Deeply listening and living in life’s fullness has been my touchstone and a guiding light that continues to inform and teach me. I look forward to talking with you and learning more about how I can help.

My approach centers on deep listening, empathy, and honoring each client’s lived experience. I intentionally consider cultural, environmental, and systemic influences, ensuring therapy is respectful, collaborative, and client-led. I believe in creating a comfortable space that supports growth while affirming each person’s identity and self-determination. I am especially enthusiastic about returning to a practice setting focused on working with adults, where I can support clients in exploring identity, healing, and growth.

Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.

It’s so nice to meet you! I’m passionate about helping women reconnect with themselves, heal from what they’ve experienced, and create the relationships and life they truly want. I work exclusively with women for individual therapy and also offer couples therapy on a self-pay basis for partners who want to strengthen their connection, improve communication, and navigate challenges together. Couples therapy is not billed through insurance. I specialize in attachment, emotions, self-worth, and relationship patterns, including anxiety, grief, anger, shame, and difficulty feeling connected to yourself or others. Over the past 7+ years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients as they gain a deeper understanding of themselves, break patterns that no longer serve them, build confidence, strengthen their boundaries, and develop healthier, more meaningful connections. My hope is to create a space where you feel seen, understood, and supported—not only in navigating what is difficult, but in reconnecting with who you are and moving toward the life and relationships you want.

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor dedicated to promoting healing and growth through a personalized, multidisciplinary approach. Understanding that each individual is unique, I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet the specific needs of my clients, recognizing that what works for one may not apply to all. I place a strong emphasis on building a trusting rapport and establishing a collaborative therapeutic alliance, where we work together to create lasting change. I firmly believe that every person has the potential to shape and develop the life they envision, and my role is to guide and support them in this process.

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.

Hi, I'm Alisa! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I specialize in treating interpersonal concerns and have helped people adjust to life changes, decrease anxiety, and alleviate depression. Working with me, you will find our therapy sessions will be a safe place to be authentic and vulnerable. I aim to utilize appropriate interventions to help you achieve your goal from evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based, and Psychodynamic. I cater my approach to each of my client’s individual needs.

Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role in their respective communities and are an excellent resource for you to realize your strengths and improve your well-being. When your car breaks down you take it to a mechanic. When your tooth hurts you see a dentist. When your mental health can use a “tune-up,” see a Mental Health Professional!

Are you looking to create a new life narrative-story rooted in your strengths? My life and work experiences working with adults and children experiencing emotional disorders, trauma, anxiety, and life barriers hopefully can help us collaborate on building that new resilient story together. Outside of work, I enjoy various forms of exercise: HIIT workouts, yoga, nutrition topics, science, music , gardening, and traveling. I have an avid interest in learning about other cultures and have lived and studied abroad in Ecuador, South America.

I’m a bilingual therapist who provides a welcoming, safe, and nonjudgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Together, we focus on your strengths, build resilience, and develop practical tools for meaningful change. My goal is to help you feel empowered, more confident, and connected to yourself and others while navigating life with greater ease.

I’m really glad you’re here. I’m Shannon, a licensed psychotherapist and certified yoga therapist. I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck in their relationships, or disconnected from themselves. If you tend to overthink, feel anxious in connection, or shut down when things get hard—you’re not alone. Together, we slow things down so you can understand what’s actually happening inside you, and learn how to feel more like yourself again. My work blends talk therapy with body awareness, because real change doesn’t just happen in your head—it happens when you can feel it.

It is not always easy to reach out for help, but you are on the right path. Things will get better as we approach your struggles and goals together. I have any easy going straight forward approach to therapy as I work to meet each client’s unique needs. I have been a therapist for over 30 years and have worked with clients on a myriad of issues including anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, perinatal loss and other women’s issues. My work has also included working with folks on life transitions whether it be family or career related, as these can create much stress for people. I have worked in Connecticut, Florida and Texas, both as a clinical leader and practicing clinician. I am currently licensed in Connecticut, California and Texas. My training was at the Columbia School of Social Work where I received my masters degree. I truly look forward to the opportunity of working together and hope we will talk soon. You are not alone.

My approach is a therapist who works collaboratively with clients to create a space that feels safe, respectful and grounded in authenticity. It is important that my clients feel emotionally safe, seen and empowered. I intend to create an environment where they can feel comfortable to navigate the challenging and difficult experiences they have endured throughout their life. My focus is on supporting clients as they learn to understand and manage their emotions, express their thoughts and feelings effectively, and explore how childhood experiences shape who we are today.

Hello. My Name is Eric. Are you feeling tired? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Are your relationships not as good as what you hope they would be? Are you feeling down, and hard to be true to yourself? Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? I help people manage anxiety, depression and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's working well for you, and what can be improved upon in your life so you can find yourself, and achieve your full potential in life. We will utilize a whole body care an approach that addresses the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness into the session to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with feelings of being overwhelmed, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can understand you are not alone, and can learn positive coping skills to manage your feelings that are not allowing you to achieve your full potential. Let's work together!

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the state of California and Arizona. I received my masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing therapy in California for about 13 years in various settings. I recently obtained my license to work with clients residing in Arizona. I have experience working in a healthcare setting, school campuses, domestic violence shelters, and with substance abuse.

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

I am a lantinx female Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who enjoys hearing others stories and helping people discover their strength and authentic selves. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. As a compassionate-client centered therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we will work together to uncover your inner wisdom, build your unique strengths, and collaboratively navigate a path towards growth, healing and balance. My work is primarily working with people who have some level of neuro-diversity (ADHD, Anxiety, ASD) themselves or love and care for a person who is neurodivergent.

Grief, depression, and chronic health challenges can leave you feeling emotionally exhausted, isolated, and unsure how to move forward. You don't have to face it alone. With more than 10 years of experience, I help adults find relief from anxiety and depression, process grief, and navigate life transitions with greater confidence and hope. As a person of color, I understand how culture, identity, and lived experiences shape emotional well-being, and I provide an affirming, culturally responsive space where you can feel safe, understood, and supported. Together, we'll work at your pace to process difficult experiences, strengthen healthy coping skills, and help you reconnect with yourself and the life you want to build.

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 am a licensed therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health services to individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and performance-related challenges. My goal is to create a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel understood and empowered to work through internal barriers, strengthen emotional resilience, and build lasting well-being. As a proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, a competitive surfer, and a father to two incredible daughters, my life experiences have deeply shaped my perspective and clinical approach. The discipline, adaptability, and presence I developed through military service and years in the water inform my work, particularly with veterans, athletes, and high-performing individuals facing pressure or transition. Whether you are seeking support during a difficult season or striving for personal growth, I bring authenticity, steadiness, and a genuine commitment to helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.

We are all faced with challenges. These challenges can create limitations that interfere with gaining a sense of self, forming healthy relationships, and pursuing our goals. I believe we should not allow these obstacles to dictate how we respond to the environment around us. Learning healthy coping skills, challenging negative self talk, and setting effective boundaries can facilitate desired outcomes in our daily life. Given the opportunity, I would enjoy working with you right where you are. Let’s get to work!

I am authentic genuine, warm, direct and client centered. I have e experience working with families, couples and individuals. I believe in the field and am excited for every interaction and opportunity when individuals show up for themselves. I am honored to join in the journey to aid with tools to assist with living life from a place of abundance and courage.

Hi, I'm Eva. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, tired and just not as active in your life as you would like to be? Feeling challenged with just keeping up with everyday activities. Seem to forget to take care of yourself, that everybody else comes before you? I help people like yourself to get back to feeling more positive, less tired, burnt out, isolated and lonely. We will together come up with a plan for how to best work on the issues that you want to change. We will use an approach that you feel most comfortable with, and work toward a life that gives back pleasure, harmony and ease. Whether you are dealing with a situational situation or a longer-term struggle I'll be there to support you through your work. You have already taken a big step in the right direction just by reading through different clinicians' statements. The next step is to choose a clinician, contact Growth Therapy and set up an appointment. Sometimes these are the hardest steps to take. One of my most important goals is to provide you with a safe space where you feel validated, and supported and provide you with no judgment, compassion and respect.

Hello, I am Kathleen. Do you feel overwhelmed, burnt out or pulled in a million different directions? Are you struggling with your relationships, work or health? Is it difficult for you to find time for yourself, let alone, be kind to yourself? Do you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward? Many of us are experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety and social isolation, so it is important to make caring for yourself a priority. Therapy can help you feel more connected, balanced and peaceful. Together, we can help identify what is not working and regain a sense of balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit. We will develop a "toolbox" of coping skills and create new insights and awarenesses to help you become a happier and healthier version of yourself. Seeking therapy can feel threatening but it's one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and by doing so also give to others. In our sessions, I will meet you with kindness, compassion, humor and evidence-based modalities, so you can overcome obstacles and habits that may be holding you back. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and empathic environment in which to work through current issues, conflicting relationships and/or past pain. I look forward to meeting you and working together.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma. I provide a client-centered, warm and non-judgmental space where individuals can feel supported as they work towards improving their mental health and overall well-being. Together, we create a space where you can exhale, speak honestly and begin to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.

It is my joy to help Anyone who is struggling with feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as stress, with poor self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I have been in practice for 30 years, and support clients in gaining skills to help themselves to quickly feel better. I also help teens ang young adults who are depressed and anxious. I help people to feel better and live with more bliss. I am also experienced and supportive of LGBTQ+ issues.

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.