Children Therapists in Connecticut

For children, a therapist who specializes in child-centered care and understands the unique needs of young minds can be instrumental in helping them and their parents/caregivers navigate emotions and challenges. With 27 child therapists in Connecticut, families can access expert support tailored to developmental needs, whether addressing behavioral concerns, trauma, or social skills. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is open to new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, providing a safe, nurturing environment where children can express themselves and grow.

Availability updated: 3/31/2026

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering
Direct
Open-minded
Humorous
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
I am a dedicated therapist with a compassionate approach, drawing on my personal experience as a mother and wife of children facing serious health challenges. I specialize in telehealth therapy, offering expert care for a variety of mental health conditions. My mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can address life’s challenges, cultivate resilience, and pursue holistic healing.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
+2
I’m Evamary Largaespada, a Licensed Professional Counselor supporting children, parents, and adults in creating meaningful, lasting change in their lives. I work with children from infancy through adolescence, first-time and prenatal parents, and adults looking to heal from past experiences, understand how their childhood impacts their present, and break generational cycles. In my practice, I provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and life experiences. I integrate Person-Centered Therapy, Existential Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, and attachment-based approaches to help clients heal, grow, and build stronger relationships with themselves and others. I guide adults in connecting with and healing their inner child, understanding patterns shaped by early experiences, and developing new ways of relating to themselves and their loved ones. For families, I support children and parents in strengthening their bond, improving communication, and fostering emotional resilience. Together, we work to create trust, emotional safety, and self-awareness, paving the way for healing, personal growth, and healthier relationships across generations.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering
Direct
Humorous
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-Minded
Challenging

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+10
My name is Wendy, and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience. I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be rooted in respect, compassion, and genuine understanding. My approach combines evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, and Solution-Focused Therapy. These goal-oriented strategies empower you to tap into your own strengths and create meaningful, lasting change—often allowing you to see progress sooner than expected. I work with adults, adolescents, and children, and I am committed to meeting you where you are. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, or communication issues, I’ll be here to support and guide you every step of the way. I’m glad you’ve taken this important step toward change. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you move forward on your path to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Warm
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+4
Are you a teen, college student, or young adult who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself lately? Or, are you a parent searching for compassionate and effective support for your child? I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Connecticut, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in New Hampshire, and a Ph.D.-level psychologist. I earned my doctorate degree in psychology from the University of Connecticut and specialize in helping people manage anxiety, stress, and life transitions with clarity and confidence. In our work together, you will find a warm and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My approach is collaborative and practical. We will build skills and strategies that match your unique needs so you can feel more grounded, capable, and in control. I am passionate about helping clients discover their inner strengths, learn coping skills, and create meaningful and lasting changes. If you are ready to take the next steps toward a calmer and more fulfilling life for yourself or your child, I am here to help. I invite you to explore my professional pages to learn more about me: Instagram: @hellodrnilani Linktree: https://linktr.ee/drnilani **Note: I adhere to the Grow Therapy policy of a fee for cancellations with less than 24 hours notice and no show appointments.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Coping Skills
Grief
Hi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is located in Connecticut. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University in New York. I am a very well-rounded therapist, working with patients with substance abuse, psychiatric issues, depression, anxiety, children in crisis and hospice/end of life planning with patients and families. I am also licensed in the state of South Carolina.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Solution oriented
Direct
Holistic
Humorous
Open-Minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
I am licensed in Connecticut with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. Additionally, I hold experience working with children and adolescents with behavioural and mental health concerns. I take a person-centred approach in which I believe that you know yourself best and can make positive changes. My role is to guide you on the way. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist in challenging unhealthy thought patterns and to promote the regulation of emotions. Seeking out help can be the hardest part of making changes and I am proud of you for taking that step! I look forward to working with you. Additional areas of focus for my practice include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Domestic Violence, Family Problems, Gender Dysphoria, Isolation / Loneliness, Money and Financial Issues, Mood Disorders, Obsessions, Compulsions, and OCD, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Polyamory / Nonmonogamous Relationships, Self-Harm, Sexuality, Social Anxiety and Phobia, Workplace Issues, and Young Adult Issues.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Domestic Violence
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello. Welcome. My name is Jill Waite. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of CT and a licensed clinical mental health counselor in the state of NH. My training and education is as a clinical psychologist with advanced training and education in neuropsychology. I have 11-years of experience providing support and guidance to those struggling with a mental illness, relationship challenges, or emotional and mental unwellness.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Open-minded
Direct
Intelligent
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+21
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping individuals become the best versions of themselves so they can live fulfilling and meaningful lives. I believe an essential component of therapy is providing a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where healing and personal growth can occur. I work collaboratively with clients to identify their strengths and positive qualities, supporting the development of confidence and self-esteem. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse population, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My clinical experience includes addressing behavioral challenges in children, substance and alcohol use among adolescents, family and relational struggles, couples counseling, and individual therapy. I recognize that no two individuals are alike; therefore, I take a flexible, client-centered, and adaptive approach to treatment, tailoring interventions to meet each client’s unique needs and goals.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+10
Welcome. I hope that some information about me, who I typically treat, and how I approach the therapeutic relationship will help you determine if we may be a good fit to work together. I am a therapist holding two masters degrees in both clinical social work and child development and have been working in the field of clinical work for over 15 years. My academic and professional background helps me to have a deeper understanding of development and how it interplays with clinical needs.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Empowering
Humorous
Solution oriented
Solution oriented
Direct
Open-Minded
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I'm Julia Kalp. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), providing therapy since 2012, and a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) since 2009. I have worked in the mental health and social services field since 2003. Over the past 22 years, I've worked with clients ranging from preschoolers to older adults, helping people across all stages of life find balance, strength, and emotional clarity. Before beginning outpatient practice, I worked in treatment facilities and provided in-home services to children, adolescents, and families. Those early experiences showed me how deeply our relationships, environments, and early experiences shape who we are—and how much healing becomes possible when people feel safe, understood, and supported. In my work today, I provide outpatient telehealth therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in addressing mood challenges, anxiety, trauma recovery, attention and impulse control concerns, attachment needs, and stress-related issues. I draw from evidence-based approaches, integrating trauma-informed and strengths-based care tailored to each person's needs. My clients often describe me as calm, compassionate, and easy to talk to. I believe therapy works best when it feels collaborative—where we combine your insight and lived experience with my clinical tools to build meaningful change together. Whether you're healing from trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, managing ADHD, or wanting to strengthen relationships, my goal is to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and equipped with practical strategies that fit your life. Above all, I want you to leave therapy feeling more confident, capable, and connected than when you began.
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
Direct
Empowering
Intelligent
Humorous
Challenging
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
My therapy style is grounded in mindfulness and positive psychology, focusing on empowering clients to build a stronger sense of self. I help clients reframe negative thoughts, develop coping techniques, and use tailored homework assignments to foster growth and a healthier sense of identity. I often tell clients they’re like a puzzle with all the pieces they need—I’m simply here to help them put those pieces together. Through this process, I guide clients to recognize their strengths, stay present, and find value in themselves as they work toward personal growth and fulfillment.
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Warm
Challenging
Direct
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Family Conflict
Family Therapy
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice and accept insurance. I provide therapeutic services to diverse populations, including couples, families, individuals, and groups. I specialize in couples therapy and work with couples to reduce communication barriers, resolve conflicts, and address intimacy issues. Complex relationship dynamics can cause considerable distress. Therapy provides a supportive resource for couples, individuals, and families, offering empathy, understanding, and attentive listening. I am committed to assisting you and your family in achieving your personal and relational objectives. I also offer lower rates on a sliding scale ($50 - $60) with Student MFTs under my supervision. Please contact me directly or via my website for more information.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Intelligent
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Bipolar Disorder
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+1
I love working with clients who are interested in creating a positive change in their life, but may be stuck on how to start. As a therapist in private practice, as well as a Yale University trained clinician in evidence based practices, I specialize in helping clients to tackle their goals in small steps to create the change they desire.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Parenting
+10
Hi! I'm Alexandra, a licensed professional counselor based in Connecticut with over 10 years of experience. I work with clients across the lifespan, from children to adults, helping them navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and the unique stresses of parenting. My approach is warm, honest, and collaborative, and I use evidence-based techniques like CBT, combined with other tools like DBT and art therapy, to provide a flexible, supportive, and effective therapeutic experience.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
ADHD
Anxiety
+3
My great passion is to heal and empower my clients. I guide my clients, (children, adults, and families), through the exploration of unhealthy patterns and relationships. I provide safety and support for clients to become stronger and happier. If you are ready for change then you are ready to do the work.. You will be amazed at how capable you are and how quickly change can occur.
VirtualOffers in-person in New London, CT - Accepting clients in CTAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Empowering
Open-Minded
Direct
Holistic
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Welcome! I’m Kerri Griffin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience helping people move through life’s challenges with clarity, confidence, and compassion. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on what matters most to you. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, a major life transition, or simply feeling stuck, I offer practical tools and personalized support to help you move forward. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that reflects your goals and evolves with your journey. I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where you can reconnect with your strengths, build resilience, and feel better—mentally, emotionally, and holistically. It can be hard to reach out for help. Asking for help and support is the first step to feeling better. Let's work together!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hello! I’m Jordan, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with extensive experience supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at a pace that feels right for them. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, or trauma-related dysregulation, I offer a compassionate environment focused on healing and growth. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you work toward hope, healing, and achieving your identified goals!
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent
Direct
Humorous
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+11
Hi there! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being. I am passionate about empowering my clients to overcome life's challenges and find inner strength and resilience.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Humorous
Direct
Empowering
Holistic
Open-Minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
My name is Melissa and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide individual, family, couples and group therapy. I help my clients find constructive ways of addressing anxiety, depression, loss, family and relationship issues. By doing so I've learned many lessons along the way... one of these lessons is that we all seek compassion and understanding; a basic need in order to move forward under almost any circumstance. Some of my specialties include: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management. Some of the issues I address in therapy include: Child or Adolescent Issues, Chronic Illness, Coping Skill, Divorce/Separation, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence, Drug Abuse, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Parenting, Peer Relationships, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, Sexual Abuse, Substance Abuse, and much more. I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, some of which include outpatient, residential, and group homes. I am committed to my clients and bringing families together to resolve conflicts that may have been preventing them from moving forward.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Direct
Open-minded
Holistic

Specialties

Anger Management
Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
+6
I am a licensed clinical social worker and therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed care. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and families who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, relationship issues, and life transitions. My practice integrates evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. I am deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore their stories, heal from emotional wounds, and build meaningful lives. Through our work together, clients often experience greater emotional resilience, improved self-esteem, and more fulfilling relationships. My goal is to support clients in reclaiming their voice, strengthening their coping skills, and fostering long-term mental wellness.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Direct
Intelligent
Empowering
Holistic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+7
My name is Olga and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of NJ, AZ and FL. I have a lot of experience working with a diverse population of clients with different diagnosis and in a variety of mental health settings including inpatient, outpatient, psychiatric hospitals, group homes, private in home therapy, schools and virtually (audio, audiovisual and livechat). I specialize in ERP for clients experiencing symptoms of OCD and HRT for clients experiencing BFRB's and tic disorders. I am eclectic in my approach to therapy and some of the alternate treatment modalities that I use include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused brief therapy, mindfulness based therapy, etc. I hope to build a strong and trusting relationship with all of my clients and I believe that therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental environment where client's can work toward their goals.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+1
I am an open minded therapist who has been in the field for over 25 years. I have a sincere passion for helping people navigate through difficult times and helping them find peace and balance in their lives. I have a sincere passion for helping people find their path in life. So they may live happier and more fulfilled life.
VirtualOffers in-person in Newington, CT - Accepting clients in CTAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent
Challenging
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Phobias
+3
Hi, and welcome!👋 My name is Trisha, and I am licensed to practice in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Florida , Idaho & Vermont. Whether you’re here after months of searching or just browsing, you’ve already taken a step toward change—and I’m glad you’re here. If you’re ready for a therapy experience that blends compassion🕊️ with practical tools🛠️, and structure📅 with flexibility, let’s talk. The path forward may not be easy, but it will be worth it—and you don’t have to walk it alone. I specialize in treating Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts🧠 stuck in exhausting anxiety cycles🔄 or caught self destructive patterns🧩 that don’t serve you, I can help you break free from those loops. Together, we’ll map your symptoms,🧭 understand your triggers💡, and create a step-by-step plan📍 to face fears, build coping skills, and regain a sense of freedom ✨and control🕊️. Anxiety & Related Disorders ✔️Panic Disorder ✔️Somatization Disorders ✔️Generalized Anxiety Disorder ✔️Specific Phobias ✔️Health Anxiety ✔️Somatization Disorder Addiction and Compulsive Behaviors ✔️Overspending ✔️ Gambling ✔️ Overeating ✔️Shoplifting Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders ✔️Contamination, Cleaning & Checking OCD ✔️Harm OCD (intrusive fears of harming self or others) ✔️Relationship (ROCD) ✔️Scrupulosity/Religious OCD ✔️Magical Thinking ✔️Pure "O" ✔️Hoarding Disorder ✔️Tic Disorders ✔️Hair Pulling & Skin Picking ✔️Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) ✔️Skin Picking (Excoriation Disorder) My therapy style is structured🗺️, skills-based🧩, and collaborative. I use evidence-based treatments, including: ✔️Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and related disorders ✔️Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for restructuring unhelpful thought patterns ✔️Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for building psychological flexibility
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Open-minded
Warm
Humorous
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering
Solution oriented
Open-Minded
Challenging
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+8
Hi there! My name is Jaron Cotton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. While life is a blessing for us all, it can bring incredible challenges filled with stress that can seem impossible at times. My goal in therapy is understand your goals and work together to help you achieve them. True growth comes from challenging ourselves to process, reflect and adapt in a healthy way. Remember that asking for help and showing vulnerability is actually a sign of strength, never a weakness! I am available through telehealth only at this time, but may be accepting in-person clients in the future. Thank you!
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Humorous
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Hi, my name is Yocheved Pearl Newman, and I’m a licensed therapist with a passion for supporting individuals through healing, growth, and self-discovery. I specialize in working with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and relational challenges. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative, integrating evidence-based practices such as EMDR and mindfulness to help clients feel more grounded and empowered. I believe in creating a safe space where every client feels seen, heard, and supported.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering
Intelligent
Humorous
Open-minded
Direct
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi, I’m Samantha Czaja, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing therapy for children, teens, and adults ages 5 and up. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Fordham University and have been practicing since 2019. I have worked in diverse settings including schools, community clinics, an Extended Day Treatment (EDT) program, outpatient care, and crisis work. These experiences have allowed me to support individuals and families from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. My trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is a collaborative space where your voice guides the journey. I specialize in helping clients manage ADHD, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, substance use, and family-related challenges. Whether you are navigating difficult family dynamics, processing loss, or seeking support for yourself or your child, I tailor our work to your unique strengths and goals. My approach combines warmth, honesty, and practicality. I use evidence-based methods including solution-focused therapy, strengths-based work, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. Through skill-building in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness, we work together to develop tools that promote resilience and lasting change. Having supported families extensively, I understand how relationships impact well-being and strive to create a safe and respectful environment for healing and growth. Reaching out for support is a brave step. I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, insight, and encouragement.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Spirituality
+10
I am a Christian-informed therapist licensed in multiple States. With a background in clinical social work and a desire to see the building up of the body of Christ, I am passionate about supporting and encouraging my brothers and sisters as they seek to navigate the difficulties of life and develop resilience that can lead to personal healing and spiritual growth. My areas of expertise include managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, faith formation, identity and purpose, peer relationships, transitional challenges, conflict resolution, forgiveness, etc.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Connecticut rather than a city like Hartford?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Connecticut. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Connecticut from New Haven to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Connecticut.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What happens during the first therapy session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs. Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center.Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.