Therapists near me in San Francisco, CA

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.

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.

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.

My name is William Money, a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I have 8 years in the field and I love my job. I am not the person to give advice or tell you how to live your life. I will not tell you I know everything because I don’t. I will meet you wherever you are therapeutically no matter where you are in your journey. I am not judgmental and I have experience with lots of things so if you feel we are a good fit please reach out to me to schedule our first appointment.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I'm here to support you through life's challenges with care, understanding, and a collaborative approach. I work with adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck or emotionally drained due to anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, or relationship challenges. Many of the clients I work with are balancing multiple responsibilities and are looking for a space where they feel understood while also gaining tools to move forward and improve their relationships with others and themselves. I understand starting therapy can feel like a big step, and my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard and genuinely supported. Together, we'll explore what's been weighing on you, make sense of patterns that may be limiting you, and begin building practical tools to help you feel more balanced and in control of your life journey. I use evidence-based approaches and incorporate mindfulness techniques to help you stay present, build self-awareness, and manage overwhelming thoughts and emotions. My approach is collaborative and goal-oriented, focused on helping you build insight, strengthen coping skills, and feel more in control of your emotions and daily life. Together, we can work toward improving communication, setting healthy boundaries, and creating more balanced fulfilling relationships. Overtime, my goal is to help you feel more confident, grounded, and equipped to handle challenges in a way that aligns with your values. You don't have to go through this alone, meaningful change is possible, and I'd be honored to support you along the way.

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 there my name is Blake and I look forward to getting to know and work with you. I've been fortunate enough to work with all age ranges for the past 8 years providing assistance to those struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, post-traumatic stress, as well as grief and loss. I enjoy working alongside my clients utilizing evidence-based techniques to improve the quality of life and reinstall a healthy and sustainable trajectory.

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.

Hi I’m Danyelle! I’m an LCSW (138632 ) located in the central valley of Northern California. I received my BA in Social Work with a minor in Psychology from the University of Portland in 2018 and my MSW from USC in 2023. I’ve worked in the mental health field for the past seven years and have experience treating individuals with a wide range of mental health and life struggles. My specialties include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life changes, and grief. Whether this is a new experience for you or you have been in therapy for years, I welcome anyone who is ready to work toward meaningful growth and lasting change.

Your present circumstances don't determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. -Nido Qubein I take a whole person and collaborative approach to therapy, catering therapy to the individual sitting in front of me. My specialties are in the field of grief and loss. Grief is not just bereavement, it is also the loss of a job, a relationship or a dream.

Hi my name is Maria Mercedes Giol, I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, California, Utah and Washington. I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and completed my Master's in Mental Health Counseling in Miami, Florida. I have lived in sunny (sometimes Florida, lol ) for 29 years and I am a devoted mother to a 17-year-old son and 1 small dog. I enjoy boating with my family, watching sunsets, hiking, bicycling, singing, and making homemade soaps.

Life can feel overwhelming when past experiences continue to show up as anxiety, stress, or emotional exhaustion. You may notice patterns that don’t make sense, feel stuck in survival mode, or carry a heaviness you can’t quite name. Therapy offers a space to slow down, understand what’s beneath the surface, and begin responding to life with more clarity and self-compassion. You don’t have to navigate difficult seasons alone—healing is possible, and support can make the path forward feel more steady and manageable. I also work in afternoons and evenings to ensure everyone gets a chance to be seen.

I'm a therapist, musician, and dog caregiver born and raised in the Bay Area and now living in San Jose, CA. I support creative, neurodivergent, and sensitive people improve their relationships with themselves. I help you explore how past experiences, important relationships, and culture have made you see yourself and your abilities a certain way – and what you can do to feel more confident in who you are.

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.

I'm Marisa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (115264) who received my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth, and families. I have expertise in working with individual adults specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Transitions, Relationship Issues, and Self Esteem. I utilize collaborative treatment approaches based on your individual needs because I feel that every person is unique with a different story. I strive to help you feel empowered and to develop a stronger relationship with yourself. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, and anything related to the arts.

Hello, I'm Dr. Scheherazade Pheng, a licensed Clinical and Forensic Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience helping adults across California. My work has been at the intersection of mental health, the criminal justice system, and the families whose lives are deeply affected by it. One of the things that matters most to me is making quality mental health care accessible. I welcome clients with a variety of insurance plans because I believe the support you receive should never depend on the insurance card you carry. Throughout my career, I have learned two important truths. When one person enters the criminal justice system, an entire family is impacted. Parents, spouses, grandparents, and children often carry overwhelming stress, grief, fear, and uncertainty while trying to keep moving forward. I have also seen that many communities near California's prisons and detention facilities have limited access to mental health care, despite having a tremendous need for support. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, shame, or the emotional challenges of loving someone who is incarcerated, you will find a compassionate and judgment-free space in my practice. Together, we'll work toward healing, greater clarity, and renewed hope. You deserve support just as much as the people you care about, and I'm here to help when you're ready. Dr. Pheng is also the author of The Other Side of the Wall: A Healing Guide for Families of Incarcerated Loved Ones, available at thriveinstitutefbh.com.

Hello! I’m Yasaman Sharifi, Licensed Family and Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for helping individuals navigate their challenges through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With a focus on fostering self-awareness and resilience, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and reshape negative thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve their personal therapy goals. I address the roots and underlining issues to assist individual with faster recovery with the current problems. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I am here to provide a supportive and empowering environment for your growth and healing. Let’s embark on this journey together!

Hey everyone, my name is Thomas! I am an LCSW with over 5 years experience working with clients. I work with adults and couples navigating self-worth issues and relationship patterns rooted in past or present wounds. My approach is depth-oriented, relational, and focused on real change—not just insight. Clients often come seeking relief, clarity, and a more secure sense of self and connection.

Hello! My name is Ari. My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I have been practicing therapy for 5 years, and have worked with neurodivergent children and adults for 10+ years. Some things I love the most are: good food, weird art, and my little Maltipoo. I am a good fit for children, teens, or adults who are autistic, have symptoms of ADHD/ADD, and other mental health symptoms.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I received my Masters degree from CSU Fresno and have been practicing for over 6 years in the public sector in both individual and group therapy settings. I have worked with different populations such as children and teens, adults, the unhoused, veterans and in an impatient substance abuse facility.

Seeking therapy can be a daunting experience, but I am glad you are here. I am a strength-based therapist, and I am here to listen and help you navigate your obstacles to reach your desired goals. I specialize in mood disorders and anxiety and use a variety of modalities to fit your specific needs.I use a variety of modalities, as no one size fits all. Some of the modalities I utilize are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, attachment theory, and motivational interviewing. We will work collaboratively to find the best approach to meet your desired goals.

Hi! It’s nice to meet you, and I’m glad you’re considering therapy. My name is Elisa and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who values authenticity, strong rapport, and a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. I bring experience working across school-based, residential, and outpatient settings, which has shaped a flexible, grounded style that allows me to meet clients where they are in their healing process. I focus on creating a space that feels warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental from the very beginning. My goal is to help you build confidence, better understand your emotions, and feel supported as you move toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

Mr. Ilya Shtykan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Masters's Degree graduate in Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, Ilya has worked with multiple organizations and various types of client populations. Also, Ilya currently provides counseling services for sufferers of co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders. Ilya has gained a lot of valuable insight about himself as a therapist through participating in these programs. He has also developed an empathetic understanding of the patients and the everyday struggles they endure. Ilya's long-term goal in this field is to help make a positive change in clients' lives and provide a meaningful service that makes a difference. Ilya is very passionate about assisting people in finding positive ways to deal with their issues and struggles and being seen, heard, and understood.

Hi there! Its great to connect with you! I’m Sarah Haase, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and founder of Haase Therapy, Inc., where I help teens, young adults, and families feel more grounded, confident, and in control during life’s most challenging transitions. I specialize in working with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or unsure how to manage anxiety, emotions, or relationships. My approach is collaborative, practical, and compassionate, blending evidence-based therapies with real-life tools that clients can use beyond the therapy room to create meaningful, lasting change.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with more than 15 years of experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families through a variety of life experiences and challenges. My practice is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and culturally responsive care. I provide a safe, supportive space to explore challenges, build insight, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for each individual person.

I’m a warm, compassionate, and down-to-earth therapist who believes healing begins when people feel truly seen, heard, and understood. With experience across mental health, education, and community settings, I bring both clinical knowledge and a real-world perspective to therapy. I work best with clients who want a supportive space to process life honestly, gain deeper insight, and develop practical tools to create healthier relationships, greater confidence, and a more fulfilling life.

I'm Stacie, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. As an LMFT, I approach therapy from a systemic perspective, which means I look at the bigger picture of your life and consider how your relationships, family experiences, and environment may be impacting the challenges you're facing today. While understanding the past can provide valuable context, our work is centered on helping you apply those insights in the present so you can move forward to healthier patterns, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling life. Note: **currently not accepting new couple's at this time due to being at capacity for couple's therapy, however I am still accepting individuals for individual therapy. I will update when I am accepting couple's again, thank you!**

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 Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience. I believe treatment and therapy should be different for each individual depending on their preferences, background, beliefs, and personality. I consider myself to be warm and inviting and create a space where one feels heard and seen during our sessions. Additionally, I am bilingual and speak Spanish.

There is always a path beyond what you're suffering now. For 35 years I've been privileged to help people like you look at their lives. I've helped them find ways to directly look at the pain, fear, anger, shame, depression, trauma, and other things that feel overwhelming. Most importantly, I've helped people find ways to move beyond today's focus on pain and struggle to discover new ways to manage their lives, to suffer less, and to feel more space, trust, and aliveness.

I am a warm, supportive, and client‑centered therapist dedicated to creating a compassionate space where you can explore your experiences with comfort and confidence. My style is friendly, natural, and humanistic. I strive to meet each person with genuine care, curiosity, and respect for their unique story. I am attentive to learning about your needs, your history, and what feels most important to you right now. Whether you are facing a difficult life transition or navigating complex emotions, I am here to help you clarify your choices, understand your internal world, and move toward the life you want with greater confidence and ease. • I provide a calm, accepting environment where you can process openly and without judgment. • I approach therapy with positivity and authenticity, allowing sessions to feel grounded, human, and collaborative. • I focus on developing a meaningful therapeutic relationship, one that honors your individuality and supports your personal goals. • Together, we work at a pace that feels safe, intentional, and empowering for you. My aim is not only to support you through life’s challenges but also to help you grow, heal, and reconnect with your strengths.

Hello there.....My name is Maria Paola Cortes Elser, I was born in Colombia and have been living in the USA for 23 years now, and as an immigrant, I confronted different situations that helped me to grow personally, and spiritually and understand how special it is to be from somewhere else and become part of this extraordinary country. I understand the challenges that come from this transition from different land to America and all the life experiences that those changes include, mentally culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Santo Tomas De Aquino University in Bogota Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University in the USA. I have been working in this field for 10 years, and I have experience with DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to help and support individuals and families who struggle with relationships, and Mental illnesses through faith and professional clinical counseling.

I am a caring and empathetic therapist with thirty years of experience working in county mental health. You may feel weighted down by depression, grieving a significant loss, or struggling to adjust to a major life change. Perhaps you feel exhausted, unmotivated, disconnected from others or unsure of how to move forward. You may also experience significant changes in your mood that make it difficult to feel stable or like yourself. I provide warm, compassionate therapy for adults experiencing depression, grief, life transitions, anxiety and other mood related concerns. Together we will work to understand what you are experiencing, strengthen your ability to cope and identify realistic steps towards feeling more stable, connected and hopeful.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. I received my Masters Degree in Counseling from Cal State Northridge in 1998, worked in Social Work for the past 24 years and for the past few years have been counseling couples and individuals. I help people deal with their issues from a strength-based compassionate perspective. I am here to support and encourage you while also challenging you to become your healthy and best self.

Hello! My name is Pai and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of California and have been practicing for 7 years. As a first-generation Thai-American with working class background, I bring a deep understanding of overcoming hardships and trauma. I have worked in community mental health providing culturally responsive therapeutic services including harm reduction and crisis counseling. Rooted in social justice, my work as a therapist is an extension of my passion in helping others empower themselves and assist in their healing journey.

My name is Heather Cobbs, and I am passionate about working with people of all ages and walks of life that are on a journey to grow self love, a positive self image, and are looking to change self talk from negative to positive. It is my pleasure to assist women struggling with anxiety and/or depression to increase their mood by changing self talk, examine negative core beliefs, unravel dysfunctional behavior patterns, and provide tools to meet their life goals.

Hello, I am Marco, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 8 years of experience supporting clients from all backgrounds. My areas of focus include men's issues, anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, and psychotic disorders. I believe the most effective therapy is rooted in authenticity and mutual respect. My approach is collaborative and direct; I provide a safe, honest space to explore your challenges, focusing on practical truths rather than avoidance.

Hi, I´m Rhianna. Life is a journey filled with transitions, some of which can be profoundly challenging, especially as we grow older. If you or a loved one find yourselves grappling with the complexities of anxiety and grief during these times of change, you're not alone. I am a dedicated and experienced therapist who specializes in providing support and guidance to individuals navigating through difficult transitions. With a deep understanding of the unique emotional and psychological needs of individuals, I offer a compassionate and empathetic approach to therapy. My expertise lies in helping individuals cope with the intertwined issues of anxiety and grief, offering a safe and nurturing space for healing and personal growth. I believe that aging is a natural part of life, but it doesn't mean that you should face it alone or without the tools to navigate its emotional challenges. I am committed to helping you or your loved one regain a sense of peace, purpose, and resilience, even in the face of life's most profound transitions. In this therapeutic journey, I will bring together my professional expertise, warmth, and genuine compassion to provide the guidance and support needed to not only cope with anxiety and grief but to also rediscover the joys and fulfillment that life has to offer. Whether you're dealing with loss, adjusting to major life changes, or facing any other life-altering challenges, I am here to walk alongside you, offering a path toward healing and emotional well-being.

I am a licensed bilingual clinical therapist who provides individual therapy for concerns such a depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, anger management , communication difficulties and life transitions. I also have experience supporting individuals who have experienced domestic violence and sexual abuse. My approach is collaborative, supportive and grounding in creating a safe space where you can show up as your authentic self.

You don’t have to have it all figured out, let’s figure it out together. I’m a Latina therapist who supports adults navigating anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and major life changes. My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative, creating a space where you can feel safe to open up and be yourself. Together, we’ll explore what’s been weighing on you, build tools to manage life’s ups and downs, and help you move toward feeling more grounded, confident, and connected to who you are.

Do you feel trapped by work stress or family problems? Maybe a recent life event has turned your world upside down. Or perhaps you feel stuck—unable to reach your full potential or reconnect with the things that once made you happy. I have dedicated over 13 years to working with teens, adults, and families, helping strengthen relationships and uncover the best in every individual. Hablo Español

I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Thank you for taking the time to review my brief profile. I hold a Doctorate in Social Work, complemented by more than 25 years of experience in healthcare and mental wellness. I have worked with many clients dealing with end-of-life, healing from grief and loss issues, depression, cultural conflicts, intergenerational and relationship stressors, work/life balance issues, and other life stressors that can potentially affect the daily living of a person. Honoring what we need is not selfish - it is an essential part of caring for ourselves, and creating a life where we can heal, grow, and thrive. I feel truly humbled and honored to meet each client who chooses me as their therapist. I also believe that a little humor can go a long way - it can bring lightness to difficult moments, strengthen connection, and remind us that healing doesn't always have to feel so heavy.

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.

Do you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result? Are you struggling to find balance in your life? Do you feel like there's a part of you that has died and hasn't come back to life? Hi, my name is Merisa. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and artist. I help highly functioning adults manage their stressors and find more balance in life. I am an art therapist, meaning we will use art as a communication tool to express emotions, process trauma and relieve stress. I have many clients who are not willing to do art therapy, and that's okay as well! Talking is just as effective. If you're from a family who didn't talk about feelings, and/or avoided conflict, it is possible that talking about your feelings isn't easy. I am here to help ease you into it. Therapy is like exercising. You will be working new muscles and I'm here to help you get stronger. Professional Background: I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, minoring in Psychology in 2014 and graduated with my Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy in 2016. I was always creative and wanted to help others which lead me in the direction of art therapy and LMFT. I have worked at the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, providing therapy to patients and families; multiple addiction treatment centers and I was also a school counselor. I have been in recovery for years, and have personal and professional experience working with teens, adults and families in substance use and mental health treatment. I am willing to help you with addiction, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.

Hi! I'm Kelly Miltenberger, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I work towards recognizing your existing skills and strengths and helping you to expand those into stronger, more adaptable ones to help you achieve your goals. For over 15 years I have been working with children and adults from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. I have a vast range of clinical experience in forensic settings, In-Patient facilities, virtual settings, and schools.

As a seasoned clinician, I specialize in helping clients find steadiness during times of uncertainty. I bring a mindful, practical, and collaborative style to therapy, helping you slow down, make sense of your experiences, and build the skills and confidence needed to create meaningful change. My goal is to offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can reconnect with your strengths and move toward a life that feels more aligned and intentional.

Welcome! My name is Christi Wolesky and I am an empathetic LCSW (licensed Clinical Social Worker). I received my Master's of Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. Upon graduation I worked in the mental health field in various positions for 14 years, and I have been practicing therapy for approximately 10 years. It takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide in-person or tele-therapy in a warm, friendly, and safe environment.

Seeking support takes courage, and I'm honored to be part of that journey with my clients. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide a compassionate, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship challenges, life transitions, and everyday stressors. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, navigating a difficult situation, or looking for healthier ways to cope, we'll work together to identify your strengths, develop practical tools, and create a path toward healing and personal growth. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, recognizing that every person's experiences and goals are different. I believe that meaningful change happens when clients feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood. My goal is to help you build resilience, improve emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and gain confidence in navigating life's challenges—one step at a time. You don't have to face life's challenges alone. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing, balance, and lasting well-being.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in the state of California. I received my Master's Degree from Antioch University Los Angeles and have been practicing for 18 years. Working together, I help adults work to find solutions to ongoing issues causing anxiety, sadness and loneliness in their lives so they may become the best version of themselves.