As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), I specialize in supporting first-generation individuals and those who have experienced trauma, postpartum, anxiety, depression, and family challenges. My therapeutic approach integrates client-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and somatic work to offer a holistic and personalized treatment plan that addresses both the mind and body. I deeply value creating a safe, collaborative, and empathetic space where clients feel heard and supported. My goal is to help clients process past experiences, gain self-acceptance, and build empowerment and confidence. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and I work closely with clients to explore their feelings, foster self-awareness, and help them develop the tools to thrive in their relationships—with themselves, their families, and their partners. Over the past 6 years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on first-generation immigrants. I offer services in both English and Spanish and find great fulfillment in helping clients navigate the unique pressures and challenges that come with balancing multiple cultural identities.

Thank you for your interest in my counseling practice! I provide individual counseling for clients seeking support in managing anxiety, life transitions, grief and trauma symptoms. I received my MSW in Clinical Practice from the University of Pennsylvania and have been practicing for 20 years. I believe that people are doing the best they can with the resources that they have, so my goal as a therapist is to help you develop self-awareness and coping skills so you can feel more resilient and secure in yourself.

Welcome! I'm Norma, and I'm glad you're here. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to creating a safe and comfortable environment for clients. I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-care, helping clients identify solutions, gain new perspectives, and leverage their strengths to achieve overall mental wellness. Whether you're ready to start now or later, I'm here to help. My background includes 12 years of Case Management and 13 years as a Mental Health Clinician.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. With a passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal growth, I've dedicated my career to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where my clients can explore challenges, heal, and thrive. My approach is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique dynamics and strengths. Whether addressing communication issues, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, or personal development, I aim to empower my clients to achieve greater harmony, understanding, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.

Marjorie is a Spanish language Bilingual Psychotherapist from South America and has been practicing in the USA since 2008 as a MSW provider and since 2012 as a LCSW therapist. Marjorie graduated with both a bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in clinical social work from California State University Los Angeles. Marjorie works both in her own private practice -focusing on women’s issues and minority populations - and as a Psychiatric Social Worker for a large managed health care organization, helping clients with diverse psychosocial stressors or chronic mood disorders. Marjorie has extensive experience in social work, advocacy, case management and mental health services for over 18 years. Marjorie has provided psychotherapy services for adults and children from various cultural backgrounds, she’s sensitive to the linguistic needs of the clients served (Spanish/English). Areas of focus: Assessment and diagnosis formulation, treatment planning, counseling (short term specific or situational issues), psychotherapy (long term broader range for mental illness) and crisis intervention.

I work towards building trust with clients. My practice focuses on helping those who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and women's issues. People tell me often that i have a calm presence. I do enjoy providing realistic skills, people enjoy practicality and need immediate relief from distress at times. Why wouldn't i teach my clients to find relief from the overwhelming stress.

Chang "Raphael" Liu possesses over six years of dedicated experience supporting individuals navigating complex mental health challenges. He employs a holistic, trauma-informed approach, recognizing the profound impact past experiences have on present well-being. Raphael specializes in helping clients effectively manage symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. Furthermore, he has extensive expertise in addressing the unique developmental struggles faced by adolescents, offering targeted strategies for identity formation, peer pressure, and navigating familial transitions. His practice is focused on empowering clients toward sustainable healing and self-discovery.

I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist supporting children, adolescents, and their families through challenges of emotion dysregulation, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal conflicts. I assist clients in living values driven lives through skill building, processing, and support. I use a DBT and CBT framework to assist clients in implementing practical skills to work towards their goals, improve their mood, and strengthen relationships. I provide a warm, empathetic, and compassionate space that meets you right where you are.

Hi, my name is Laurie. I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for 27 years. I have been able to help a variety of people who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, trauma, family conflict, military-related issues, parenting and couples who want to learn better communication skills. I have worked with people from a variety of ethnicities and ages, from 5 to 75. I am compassionate, caring, and empathic. My background includes; working with troubled teens, military members who struggle with deployment, etc., a drug and alcohol treatment center, couples, and those who struggle with trauma from childhood.

Isabel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. She provides compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to children, adults, and families, with a strong background in crisis intervention and supporting clients through life’s most challenging moments. Beyond her clinical work, Isabel has led community mental health initiatives and continues to advocate for accessible resources and education, particularly within the Hispanic community.

As a clinical psychologist (PSY 30773), I am dedicated to helping individuals reach their full potential by enhancing their overall functioning, well-being, and success. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership built on mutual respect, compassion, trust, and teamwork. Guided by my faith, I strive to treat every person with dignity and understanding, without judgment. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they navigate challenges, foster personal growth, and pursue healing. I am also passionate about promoting mental health awareness through education, support, and advocacy to help reduce stigma and increase access to care.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in California. I have 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I'm Kristen LCSW & I've spent decades helping others navigate through the difficult times in their life. My career started in the mid-2000's as a Special Ed teacher at an all boys' residential behavior mod program, when after about 5yrs I realized that education was the surface of their issues and that I wanted to become a therapist. Which is what I did. Went to Rutgers grad school, worked 5yrs prison re-entry, then 5yrs dual dx IOP, before moving into my current role in private practice.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in California and working with adults navigating anxiety, college and career stress, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, and other life transitions. My approach to therapy is modern, collaborative, and relaxed. I strive to create a space that feels comfortable, supportive, and free of judgment—where you can show up as you are. I integrate culturally responsive, evidence-based practices such as mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailoring each session to meet your unique needs and goals. Adulthood can bring significant pressure and change, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed or isolated at times. Whether you’re a young woman navigating dating and self-worth, a college student adjusting to academic and life transitions, or an adult managing the demands of work and relationships, I understand how complex these experiences can feel. I believe therapy should be both empowering and practical. Together, we’ll create a warm, collaborative environment where you feel at ease, supported, and equipped with tools to move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practiced for ten years in a nationally recognized outpatient healthcare clinic before beginning my solo practice. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in psychology at Chapman University, I decided to change careers and pursue a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Working for the clinic provided an extraordinary learning environment and allowed me to benefit from collaboration with amazing clinicians who share my passion to help others. I now continue to utilize the skills and experience I've accumulated to share these benefits with my clients.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore what's on your mind, process challenges, and move toward growth and healing. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience - guided by your needs, your voice, and your goals. Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you in this process.

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.

After studying Social Work in New York City, I worked in various hospital systems before rounding out my education in a post-graduate training program in my native California. In 2020 I went into private practice in Oakland where I’ve enjoyed helping people learn about themselves and what they want out of life and how to move towards that richer way of being.

I’ve worked in various roles in the mental health field since 1991 and have been a practicing clinician since 2012. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations. It’s good to laugh, to have joy, appreciate what is better. GROW is secondary employment, and during the day I work for a county mental health plan delivering complex interventions for youth, families, and adults. On this platform I offer time in the evenings.

Are you looking for a relatable therapist that will meet you exactly where you're at? As a licensed marriage and family therapist, my passion is to go alongside of my client's walking through hard times with them. I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and find great satisfaction assisting others in their trauma journey. My focus is to help individuals heal from the inside out by helping them discover their inner strengths. I believe we are better together. I assist my clients by providing a neutral safe space, listening to their concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.

I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your struggles, process emotions, and move toward healing. My approach blends evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care with warmth and empathy, so our work together feels both practical and deeply personal. Clients often share that they appreciate my approachable style and the balance I offer between genuine listening and concrete strategies.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Licensed in California with 18+ years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I help adults who are struggling, become the best version of themselves at their own pace.

Hi! My name is Junise Dorestin and I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a children social service worker with Child Protective Services. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 10 years. I obtained my Masters of Art in Psychology emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2008. I have experienced in working with incarcerated individuals, families, children and young adult. I use a broad range of treatment method to assist individuals and families in the process of reaching their goals. As a LMFT, I am passionate about helping others work through their struggles and built insight. I work those who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and stress. I have work with those with psychotic disorders and dual diagnoses.

Hi there! My name is Marianne and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish and born and raised in the Bay Area. I have been in the mental health field for 10 years and worked with children adolescents and adults from all cultures and socioeconomic status. I specialize in treating ADHD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, and anxiety issues. I look forward to working with you. Let's grow together!

Hello, I’m Silvia. I am a bilingual-bicultural licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s heaviest transitions, heal from emotional stress, and reclaim their inner peace. With years of clinical experience, my practice is rooted in empathy, deep validation, and evidence-based frameworks tailored to your unique journey. I specialize in providing a supportive, collaborative environment where you can process complex feelings, break free from self-doubt, empowering you to break old cycles, foster genuine emotional autonomy, and confidently move forward toward a life that is congruent with your values and with what's truly important to you.

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.

I’m Alejandra Uribe, a bilingual and bicultural Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience providing integrative psychotherapy to help clients build insight, overcome challenges, and thrive in their emotional, mental, and relational lives. As a therapist working with women and their children I understand the unique experiences and challenges impacting women today. My work focuses on women’s issues such as motherhood and parenting, perinatal and postpartum concerns, mood disorders, and general well‑being. I bring not only professional expertise but also personal perspective, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the complexities of womanhood.

Hi, I’m Cynthia. These are tough times, and many people are struggling. If you’re anxious, down, or facing life transitions or relationship issues, I’ll help you process it all, build coping strategies, and move toward the life you want. As a first-gen Latina, I understand issues around cultural identity, bias and assimilation. Please note: I don’t specialize in eating disorders, trauma, autism or substance use. Telehealth is not an adequate platform for working with suicidality. If you are suicidal, you can call 911 for the police, 988 for the national suicide hotline, or go to the nearest hospital.

Hi my name is Jazmin. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people who need guidance coping with stress, trauma, substance abuse, and troubling thoughts. My therapeutic style is working collaboratively with you and empowering you to change your unwanted feelings and behaviors. Let's work together to uncover what is holding you back from being your best self.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in California with a demonstrated ability to develop rapport with people from various backgrounds. As a social worker, I have had the opportunity to work in various settings from medical and psychiatric hospitals, community mental health agencies and the criminal justice system (juveniles and adults). I have also worked with individuals challenged by addiction. Through the use of interpersonal dynamics, I can support individuals in accessing various psychological parts of themselves while focusing on the past, present and future.

Hi there, I'm Jess! Real change takes time, practice and patience. I am honored to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey. I am Bilingual in English and Spanish (Hablo español). I have been privileged to work with adults, teens, families, and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, communication, trauma etc. I am experienced in a number of evidence based techniques including CBT, Person-Centered therapy, and I will actively work with you to find the best approach to meet your individual needs. This open and flexible approach allows you to share and comfortably express and explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a warm, safe and inviting space. I hold a unique understanding of the struggles that accompany physical disabilities. I understand how hard reaching out and asking for help can be, and I am so proud of you for taking this first step towards peace and healing! Life is easier with support! Together we can discuss how therapy could benefit you and/or your family.

Hello, my name is Deborah Alfaro. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of California. I have been providing mental health and therapy services to individuals, children and families in a private practice and community clinical setting for more than 10 years and am now working exclusively using telehealth as a great platform to make therapy more accessible for those with busy schedules. I look forward to working with you to help you heal, obtain insight for personal growth, process your emotions and become the best version of you.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I’m a California native who graduated from the University of Southern California in 2019 with a Masters in Social Work degree and have been working in the mental health field for 7 years. My passion is for normalizing mental health in order to reduce the stigma often associated with it. We need to get comfortable talking about our mental health.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s in Marriage and Family and have practiced in California for over 27 years. My experience includes working with a variety of presenting issues in therapy including Trauma, PTSD, Abuse (Physical/Sexual, Emotional/Mental), Grief, Abandonment, Victims of Crime/War, Anxiety, and Depression. I am experienced in working with multiculturally diverse adults, adolescents, and children and am also bilingual in Spanish and English.

Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful and courageous decision. Whether you're seeking support for life transitions, navigating overwhelming emotions, or simply desiring a deeper connection with yourself, I am here to walk alongside you. You don’t need to have all the words or even know exactly where to begin—that’s what we uncover together. I offer a compassionate and grounded space where you can safely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Vulnerability isn’t always easy, but I believe that when someone dares to step into that space, profound growth can happen.

Couples: I am TAKING Couples again. However only on Cash Pay basis. This is how it will work: You can schedule with me an hour consultation, you don't both have to be present, for this Consultation. From there we will meet 5 to 6 times for 1.5 hour sessions. It is very difficult to have Couples sessions within 60 min. The Cash pay is $250.00 for the 1.5 hour sessions. I understand the cost can be a deterrent in seeking help, however if you are both committed to doing the work 5 to 6 sessions should be productive and enough to see changes. Individuals: Of course I am still taking individuals that are or are not in a relationship and need help. We were never taught how to be in a relationship of any kind. Yes there are tons of books of how to, however to put them to practical use can be very difficult. This can also relate to a relationship with a family member, friends or co-workers. Sometimes our own mental health can influence all of our relationships, and you may need coping techniques for anxiety and or depression type symptoms. I will work with you individually to help you gain insight to your own behavior that may be influencing your relationship. I am here to help with coping strategies for anxiety and depression symptoms or learning how to communicate more effectively with others.

This is my first career and something I have always been pulled to; my journey is a thorough reflection of why I work in this field. My path to becoming a licensed therapist was very intuitive-based; I went through experiences of pain, guilt, shame, loss of self, and the loss of my overall sense of life. Through my journey, I was able to understand pain and trauma, taking on a lot of spiritual remedies while turning my pain into passion, my passion into purpose, and my purpose into power as a healer. Due to my licensure journey, I not only understand the educational part of pain, trauma, and healing, but I also experienced painful and challenging moments myself, bringing me to a higher purpose for self and meaning of life! I am highly intuitive, empathic, gentle, and calm, and I am a good listener and healer. I have worked in addiction, with children who have autism and intellectual disabilities, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life coaching, spirituality, and connecting to the higher self.

I offer a space where you can show up exactly as you are. Perhaps in pain, grieving, growing, uncertain, hopeful. I believe healing happens in safe connection, in being witnessed with compassion, and in slowly finding your way back to yourself. My style is warm, grounded, and intuitive. I’m especially passionate about supporting people through trauma, anxiety, relationship pain, motherhood, identity shifts, and seasons of emotional heaviness. Together we make room for both the ache and the healing, with gentleness, honesty, and care.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a trauma-informed, somatic & relational approach to therapy. I work with thoughtful adults who want to understand themselves more deeply, reconnect with their bodies, and create more ease and clarity in their relationships. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in nervous system education—supporting meaningful, lasting change rather than quick fixes.

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 8+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step my approach is all about making the process feel comfortable, supportive, and down-to-earth—like a real conversation, not a clinical checklist. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, going through a big life change, or just feeling stuck, we’ll figure things out together at your pace. I bring a warm, relaxed, and non-judgmental energy to every session, and my goal is to create a space where you can be your full self—laugh, cry, vent, reflect, explore… whatever you need, it's all welcome. I've had the privilege of working with kids, teens, and adults, and I understand that each stage of life comes with its own ups, downs, and curveballs. No matter where you are on your journey, we’ll start there—no pressure, no pretense. Just real talk and real support.

Hi, I’m Colette, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I know starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I’m glad you’re here. I provide a calm, supportive space where you can feel safe to share your story and begin making sense of what you’re going through. Grief work is at the heart of my practice. Whether you’re coping with the loss of a loved one, a major life change, or a more personal kind of loss, I’m here to support you. I also work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, maternal mental health, and life transitions. In our work together, we’ll explore your experiences at a pace that feels right for you. We can look at patterns from the past, while also building tools to help you manage the present. I use mindfulness and CBT techniques to support you in understanding your thoughts and finding ways to cope with stress. In grief work, we may also create meaningful rituals or practices to honor your loved ones while caring for yourself. I believe it’s possible to hold both pain and joy, and I will support you in finding that balance. If you feel ready, I invite you to take the next step and schedule an appointment. I would be honored to work with you.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in medical social work and leadership. I have supported individuals and families through a broad range of life's challenges with compassion and practical guidance. My experience has shaped my ability to understand both personal and systemic stressors that impact well-being. As a military veteran, I bring a grounded, resilient perspective to my work. I've also been married for 30 years and am a parent to three adopted children who are now young adults - experiences that deeply inform my appreciation for family dynamics, transitions, and the complexities of relationships. I enjoy spending time outdoors and value balance, connection, and growth. In therapy, I strive to create a safe and genuine space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward meaningful change.

I am Anita M King, licensed marriage and family therapist. I work collaboratively with clients to help you get where you want to go. I received my degree from Chapman University and have been working with clients since 2018. I know what it is like to work harder not smarter and feel like for every step forward there are many steps back. I am fully passionate about getting you unstuck and where you aspire to be. I am passionate about helping people define and live your values to achieve a more authentic life and to help create stronger relationships. Certified to treat the impact of Hormonal Shifts, PMS, PMDD, Postpartum, Perimenopause and Menopause.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I have been providing psychotherapy services to youths and adults for over 15 years. Through my education and working experiences, I have been able to help people learn to manage and/or overcome: stress, anxiety, sadness, depression or losses due to any social, relational, interpersonal, familial, occupational or simply difficult life transitions. I utilize effective treatment methods, teach new coping skills, provide empathy, compassionate understanding and support during sessions with each individual clients, which in return has inspired them and improved their quality of life.

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 new mothers navigating postpartum depression, baby blues as well as the Perinatal mood season. I support clients working toward decreasing the external stressors in their lives.

Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or just not ok. Are you overwhelmed trying to manage life's ebbs and flows? Do you have repetitious thoughts despite efforts to push them aside? Living with uncertainty while experiencing so many different feelings can be exhausting. I offer culturally sensitive services to clients of all socioeconomic backgrounds and abilities in a respectful, safe, supportive space. Together, we will work to identify your presenting concerns and the internalized belief systems impacting how you address your them. Approaches designed to meet your specific needs, will be drawn from psychodynamic, art, mindfulness and somatic modalities. I hope my supportive, non-judgemental, and warm approach will support your work in clarifying goals and gaining insights and skills to reach them.

Warmest greetings to you! Is there a part of you that is hurting and needs a safe place to address it? Therapy is your time to be heard, speak your heart, find greater ease with yourself, and learn to work with what might get in your way. Our work together is be based on your needs, goals and pace. I will encourage you to explore your inner world, using a kind and caring lens. My goal is that you to discover greater self-acceptance which can set the stage for more healing. I will work to help you increase your connection to yourself and others and to find the strength and peace of mind to meet challenges. With compassionate listening and focused questioning you may break patterns and begin to move forward. You can learn ways to manage depression and anxiety so that you may thrive. No matter what has transpired in our lives these events are opportunities for greater understanding, growth and wisdom.

Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Are you ready to make a change? It takes courage to ask for help. Therapy can be rewarding and lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I have experienced the emotional challenges of life and can understand and empathize. In working together, we can cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and developing solutions that can help you gain control over your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-esteem, self-awareness and most importantly, a more fulfilling life. As your therapist, I will provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental and confidential environment. I use an integrated approach to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients. I have experience working with adults, couples, teens and children

Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from the University Antioch Los Angeles and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults at different stages of life and transitions who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma to help nurture and restore a sense of balance. My approach to working with clients is centered around the individual as a whole - recognizing intrinsic uniqueness and reinforcing inner strength – supporting an individuals innate ability to grow and thrive.