Grief Therapists in Connecticut

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

My name is Christopher Raposo. I’m a trained and licensed clinical social worker. My work experience has been in acute psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient substance abuse, and community behavioral health clinics. I’ve worked with a clientele suffering from a vast array of disorders, backgrounds, and life stressors. The work we do as a team mostly consists of psychoeducation, therapy, and a therapeutic alliance defined by treatment goals and objectives.

Hi there, my name is Emily and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in CT and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in IL who works with adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, family and group therapy sessions. I have over twelve years of clinical experience in a variety of environments including outpatient, inpatient, community, and in-home settings. I specialize in working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and clients of all ages who have experienced varying types of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. This experience has helped to expand my clinical areas of expertise such as stress and anxiety reduction, management of depressive and mood symptoms, harm reduction and substance abuse, and symptoms/risk behaviors associated with personality and attachment disorders. Additionally, I have worked within the foster care system providing both individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and guardians. I incorporate an array of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and solution-focused interventions into my treatment approach. In my extensive work with anxiety disorders and effects of trauma, I have frequently utilized DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) techniques, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and other interventions which focus on the psychosomatic manifestation of mental suffering in the body. I am motivated to help clients integrate past experiences into their current identity to increase insight in such a way as to make progress toward personal goals.

Are you feeling stuck and ready for a change? Let’s sit down and work through it together! Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, conflict in your relationships or just overall feeling stressed, I am here to help. My name is Kim and I’m a LCSW with over 10 years of experience. I’m passionate about helping people build skills to live more fulfilled, happy lives.

I only provide telehealth at this time. I accept adjustment issues, life transitions, grief, mood or anxiety. I will be open and honest with you about what I can and cannot do for you within the confines of telehealth. I use the first session to determine that this is going to be a good fit for both of us. Therapy is very much about a good fit between two people and the right techniques. I intentionally keep a small caseload so I can give you the time without being preoccupied by keeping up volume. My availability is limited, so I can only accept mild to moderate mental health concerns. I am happy to direct you to more appropriate resources or providers if we aren't a good match. I see intake as a mutual interview for both of us to learn about each other and decide if we want to continue a therapeutic relationship. In the interest of helping you get the best care possible, I ask that you seek in-person treatment if you struggle with a thought disorder, substance abuse, partner/relationship violence, or other safety concerns. I also do not take court or DCF mandated treatment cases via telehealth. I also do not specialize in divorce or child custody matters. While I am knowledgeable in these areas, I believe the best care is in-person.

With 35 years of experience as a social worker, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from children and teens to couples and families. Over the years, I have honed a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face, whether it's managing depression, anxiety, or navigating difficult life transitions. As a stepmother of 38 years, I bring firsthand experience with the complexities of stepfamily dynamics, and I specialize in helping blended families find harmony. I believe in the power of a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. As a good listener, I am committed to working alongside you to create a treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and aspirations. Together, we'll focus on your goals and take meaningful steps towards you becoming the best version of yourself. I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and support your journey to healing and growth.

Hi, I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in northeast Pennsylvania with over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist. I received my bachelors degree from Swarthmore College, my masters degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and I completed a post graduate fellowship in psychiatry at the Yale University Psychiatric Institute. Over the years I've worked with clients of all ages struggling with a wide variety of disorders. Primarily, I help adults 18+ who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and alcohol use disorders. I view our work together as a collaborative venture where I help you to identify troublesome thoughts and behaviors and replace them with positive ones. We will accomplish this utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and other forms of therapy as needed.

Hello, I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am based in Connecticut. I received my Bachelors and Masters from Vanguard University of Southern California. I am newly licensed but practicing since 2012. I help adults in underserved, marginalized areas who are struggling with addiction, trauma, mental health, and racism. Together, we can turn obstacles into opportunities.

Short-term counseling with an experienced professional to clarify thoughts and feelings, learn mental health management skills and plan for mental health and wellness. Possible topics include general mental health questions, improving mental health, goal setting, building cognitive and behavioral skills, dealing with life transitions, and clarifying thoughts and feelings. I am not licensed in treatment of substance abuse or addictions. I do not do court related work. Adults only.

Pamela English is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), licensed in the state of Connecticut. Pamela has 10 years of experience working in the mental health profession. She has provided therapy for children and teens dealing with grief and loss. She has also provided case management and therapeutic services for single adult women living in a homeless shelter. She also provided counseling for older adults in a nursing home. Pamela has extensive experience with adults and clients in crisis. She has experience working with teens and families. She also has experience as a case manager; she has extensive knowledge of mental health resources and utilizes those connections while working in private practice. Pamela can provide multicultural counseling for people with a variety of racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. She has also worked closely with many members of the LGBT community, providing counseling and case management when those services may not otherwise be available to them. Pamela completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Pastoral Counseling and Spiritual Care at Fordham University. Because her degree also focused on faith-based counseling, she can provide those services to clients when necessary. Pamela provides a calming presence for her clients. She maintains quiet confidence with each client and situation. She can draw from a wide range of experiences to provide therapeutic support for each client. She is flexible and versatile when building therapeutic rapport; she provides flexible scheduling. She is very excited to develop and grow her practice with Grow Therapy.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Grief Educator. I am a Jamaican American, a mother, and a wife. I have dedicated my career to helping adults navigate life's challenges through compassionate and tailored video teletherapy services. I specialize in a range of issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with grief and loss, self-worth issues, tobacco dependence, living through the phases of chronic medical conditions, and end-of-life psychosocial challenges.

Hello, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in New York and licensed in the states of New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Connecticut. I have been practicing for 7 years and I am proud to say that I have supported adults and adolescents throughout challenging mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, grief and postpartum mood struggles, as well as adjustment to life transitions. I am Bilingual able to perform treatment sessions both in English and Greek.

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.

I work with adult clients 18 and up, and I have a special interest in promoting healthy relationships with both individuals and couples, as research shows that having close and loving relationships is the most significant contributing factor to happiness over the life span. I have experience and proficiency in treating mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem problems, ruptured attachments, grief, etc.

My therapeutic style is supportive, collaborative, and grounded in a strength-based approach. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space where you can explore, heal, and grow—at your own pace and in alignment with your unique needs. I believe in taking a holistic and individualized approach, recognizing that every person’s journey is different and that healing is not one-size-fits-all. I enjoy working with those navigating life transitions, as well as those managing symptoms related to trauma. My experience includes working with adolescents, adults, and families.

I'm a licensed Psychologist in CT and FL dedicated to helping you find a way to manage your symptoms and effectively negotiate the complexities of how you relate within yourself and to the world around you. I received my PH.D. in Clinical Psychology from PGSP (Palo Alto University). My APA internship was at the State of CT DMHAS River Valley Services, with rotations at CT Valley Hospital. I completed my post-doc at the UCONN Dept. of Psychology, Research Division. My career was spent working in skilled nursing and military settings.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief loss and trauma. I utilize a strength based approach to cognitive behavioral therapy. I have successfully engaged clients in a trusting therapeutic relationship. With over 25 years in the field helping people move forward in the lives. I encourage you to reach out and starting your healing process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New York City. I received my Masters Degree from New York University over 20 years ago. I have extensive experience in treating adolescents, adults families and couples. I completely enjoy meeting with new clients and working together to help them to work toward meeting their goals which we will plan together.

Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker (licensed in both Connecticut and Massachusetts) with over 25 years of professional social work experience, specializing in medical social work. My focus is assisting individuals or family members cope with a cancer diagnosis or life after cancer. In addition to that, I have a unique interest in, and experience with, helping folks manage end of life issues and cope with grief and loss. Other areas of interest for me include helping those coping with life transitions and assisting with executive and professional coaching, especially helping those working in healthcare. My role is support and guidance, utilizing an eclectic strength-based approach. I help individuals find their way through their unique journey with compassion and insight.

Do you often see patterns in your life that you would like to change ,yet still repeat them? Counseling sessions will provide the support and guidance to understand and release emotions that keep you stuck. Relationships are key, whether it be your relationship with yourself, your partner, family member or friends, you will be able to develop self awareness and understanding of the influence of family culture and dynamics. Over 30 years as a therapist, I have worked in a variety of settings , with a wide spectrum of ages and cultures . This experience has deepened my respect for each individual's journey and the influence of their family beliefs. I help clients to acknowledge these beliefs and gradually transform and expand them to enhance rather than limit their lives. I have enjoyed working with children and adolescents and bring this experience with me , yet I am currently working primarily with adults which includes a special enjoyment to help couples to successfully transform limiting patterns and develop clear communication and listening skills. I have learned so much about life transitions through my work with trauma, hospice, death and dying, treatment foster care, eating disorders and liaison work with educational and community. These experience have strengthen my belief in human resiliency. All of the sessions are remote and I provide a phone call prior to beginning sessions where you will be able to ask questions to see if we are a good "fit" to work together.

HI! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with eight years of psychotherapy experience working with teens and adults. I offer a collaborative, compassionate approach where you feel safe to bring curiosity to issues interfering in your life. I am ready to partner with and support you while while we explore life changes that work for you. While I use a variety of tools and skills in our work together, mindful awareness of the body also informs my approach as a therapist. Through gentle awareness of any physical changes that are happening during our session, you and I can better understand thoughts and feelings as they arise.

Hello and welcome! My name is Karen Fahey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience. I work with individuals and ages 18 and up. In a safe and supportive environment, my approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental and collaborative. I use a holistic approach with a goal of healing, change and integration. I strive to help individuals live through their pain and get to a place where they love themselves and where they can be freer to absorb love from others. I will help you to understand patterns of thinking and behavior by cultivating self awareness and self acceptance. By seeking help you are demonstrating that you have courage, strength and hope. You are not alone. During my 25 plus years as a therapist I have worked with a diverse population ages 5 throught the life span. I worked in a variety of therapeutic settings including private practice, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, emergency departments, community mental health centers and a cancer center.

I listen and try to understand your situation and learn what it's like to be you. I can offer suggestions but I won't tell you what to do. I believe that my clients know what they need to do to help them heal, it might not be clear right away but after I am able to understand your problems we can work together to find solutions. It's a big step to seek counseling and to go into therapy. I respect everyone who wants to improve their mental health and well being. It isn't easy to seek help and allow oneself to be vulnerable and share ones' experience. I have listened to thousands of people and I am delighted hear everyone's story to see how I can help.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University. My concentration was clinical practice in health and mental health settings. For the past 14 years I have been working in a hospital setting. During this time I have worked with individuals and families facing serious illness, life altering diagnosis, grief, substance abuse, homelessness as well as various other life transitions, depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

I am an experienced therapist helping individual clients cope with addictions, trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I use evidence-based methods enabling clients to achieve their desired goals. These methods include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, meditation, and writing therapy. I use a client-centered approach to the therapeutic process. We proceed at a pace that is comfortable for you. You determine the goals for therapy.

Welcome! I'm Liz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Wellness Coach, Certified Grief Professional, trained in Perinatal mood and Anxiety Disorders and owner of Whole Wellness Counseling, LLC. More specifically, I am someone who can work with you to create more peace and fulfillment within your life and your relationships with others. Are you a mother who is feeling burnt out or overwhelmed with the constant responsibilities of caring for little ones? Maybe you're feeling unheard within your relationship and are looking for ways to regain that spark. Are you struggling with your past traumas or the current loss of a loved one? Do you feel like your grief is going to last forever without finding any peace? I specialize in working with mothers of young children - trained in maternal mental health. I am also trained to work with women who are struggling to move forward from the weight of their trauma, depression, and anxiety symptoms; and individuals navigating the heartbreak of loss. I will gently challenge you to make lasting behavioral changes that can have a positive impact on the overall quality of your life. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I will meet you with compassion and grace using evidence-based techniques with a laid-back approach. Together we can find a healthy and fulfilling balance to handle whatever season of life you may be in. I can't wait to meet you! wholewellnesscounselingllc.com

Hello! My name is Desiree Scime, and I am a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) in Connecticut. With over 30 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and crisis settings, I specialize in working with women who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, self-care, and career difficulties. Currently, I am accepting new clients who are adults aged 25 and older for individual sessions only. Please note that I am not accepting referrals for couples or family therapy.

Welcome—I’m Tameko, and I’m genuinely glad you’re here. If you’re reading this, it likely means something in your life feels out of alignment or unfulfilled. Perhaps you're facing difficulty initiating or following through on goals, feeling trapped by limiting beliefs, managing persistent mental health challenges, or carrying the weight of unresolved trauma or disconnection. Whatever brings you here, know that transformation is possible. My work is centered on helping individuals identify and dismantle the internal and external barriers that hinder growth, joy, and self-connection. Together, we’ll pave the way toward a more empowered, grounded, and satisfying life experience."

As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) for the past 10+ years, licensed in Connecticut and Georgia, I specialize in providing compassionate and personalized care to my clients. My holistic approach focuses on both the mind and body to promote overall well-being. I work with adolescents and adults, helping them navigate life's challenges and achieve their goals. My expertise includes trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and couples/family therapy, and I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all my clients.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Connecticut. I received my Masters from South University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults struggling with stress, trauma, anxiety and depression. It is my aim to support each of my clients in reaching their fullest potential. It is truly my hope that you become the best version of you throughout engaging in therapy with me!

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Connecticut. I help insightful, motivated, and deep feeling/sensitive adults break free from anxiety and low self-esteem so that they can be their authentic selves and build lives they love. I also support those struggling with depression, perfectionism, performance anxiety/enhancement, life stress/transitions, trauma/first responders, phobias, grief, and relationships/parenting. Are you ready to slow the chaos, enhance your self confidence, and rebuild your sense of peace and control?

Hello, I'm Kelly Bronk, and I bring nearly three decades of experience in the human services field to my practice. I have worked in various settings such as intensive outpatient programs, group homes and residential treatment facilities. A major focus in my work has been geared towards helping clients develop and utilize healthy coping skills, fostering independence, promoting self-awareness, building resilience, and encouraging healthy decision-making.

I am a creative and compassionate psychotherapist who works with clients to unlock previously obscured strengths, untapped potential and energy blocked by behavioral patterns, beliefs that no longer work, and the impacts of grief, loss and trauma. Together we will find ways to enhance what is going well in life, understand what is not and move toward the goals that you aim to achieve.

Hello There ! My name is Tanya Edwards. I am a Licensed Clinical social worker. I have accumulated over 15 years of clinical experiences with diverse populations. My practice focus areas include issues attached to depression, grief, distorted self-image, career challenges, parental caregiving and entering new life stages. My practice is geared towards empowerment for growth, sustainment, and more growth!

You’ve been holding it all together but inside, you’re exhausted. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by low self-esteem, or trying to make sense of unresolved trauma. Perhaps your relationships feel strained, or you’re stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, stress, or grief. Whatever you’re carrying, you don’t have to carry it alone. I’m here to help. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey and Connecticut, I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I also speak Spanish fluently and honor the unique experiences that come with navigating multiple cultures, identities, and roles.

As compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in social work, I have honed a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and the importance of a client-centered approach. My extensive background allows me to provide empathetic support while employing evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual's needs. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood, empowering them to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work toward meaningful personal growth and healing.

Hi there and welcome! As we go through different stages and circumstances in our lives, there are moments when we face difficult challenges and just need a safe space to overcome our barriers. Within my five years of experience, I have helped clients and families develop their unique coping skills for symptoms related to anxiety, depression, anger, behavioral dysregulation, trauma, and stress. Additionally, I have worked in various settings including communities, homes, medical offices, and remote video/telehealth. In my role as a bilingual (English & Spanish-speaking) clinical social worker, I utilize several methods of treatment with a sense of empathy and compassion for the young adults (ages 16-25 y/o), adults, and families I serve. These methods of treatment and approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I look forward to working with you and/or your family as a team with a focus on healing, skills building, and reaching your goals.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and family counseling. I studied at Fairfield University where I received my Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My primary therapy methods are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy where I work with clients to discuss presenting problems and issues and collaboratively determine what the ideal solution is by the use of questions and exploration. I believe in creating an environment for all clients that feels welcome, comfortable, and safe. By creating this kind of environment I hope to enhance the process of healing and change for the client. I also believe that the client is the expert in the story of their own lives and so it is important for me to take an active listening role and encourage the client to maximize the skills that already exist within them to minimize the problems that exist in their everyday lives.

As a Clinical Social Worker for more than a decade, I have assisted many individuals like yourself navigate through various difficult life transitions. It would be an honor for me to start collaborating with you on achieving your desired transformation. Working together, you will gain the support and tools to approach your personal journey with hope, confidence and peace so you may ultimately gain mastery over your life.

Hi I am Suzanne Tyghter , an LCSW in Ct. I have been practicing for 15 years. I am able to help people struggling with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety , learn how to better manage these symptoms and feel better about themselves and others. I look forward to working with you as you develop new skills to manage life struggles more effectively.

Hello! I am a Licensed Counselor based in Connecticut, holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Joseph. I have been practicing for 6 years, specializing in helping children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I am trained to guide you through your challenges to manage stress and help you reach your goals. I am patient, empathetic, and work with you at your own pace, always respecting your unique needs and experiences. I pride myself on my ability to stay professional, maintain confidentiality, and continuously learn to provide the best care possible.

Hello, my name is Eric Dungan and I'm a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Worker. I attended University of Louisville. I specialize in PTSD, Grief, loss, Depression, Anxiety, Marriage and Family and Anger Management. I have years of experience in the field of mental health care. I strive to help people attain their maximize potential in all aspects of their lives, using several different treatments modalities. All sessions are focused, to provide a nonjudgmental and objective environment to help the patient view their struggles with a new objective fair perspective towards themselves and other significant people and events in their lives.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Connecticut. I received my Masters from Post University and have been practicing for 5 years. I help adults and couples feeling stressed or having a hard time functioning, explore solutions to living well-balanced and happier lives. With a little help, guidance, and opportunity, we can work together to achieving personal goals with positive outcomes.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Connecticut with 12 years' experience working with teens, adults, and older adults overcome the challenges in their lives. Whether you are transitioning to college or retirement, I can help you cope with the changes life brings to us in a way that will make you feel fulfilled and balanced again. You deserve the best life has to offer and I can help you refocus, work through hard decisions, and see life in a positive light. Whether you are dealing with a specific life transition, anxiety, or depression, I can help you achieve your goal of feeling better about yourself and the world.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist, my commitment is to help my clients enhance their quality of life and make positive changes that will improve their overall wellbeing. My training in psychotherapy and family systems, combined with my license to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, enables me to provide effective therapy within the context of marriage, couples, and family systems. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families.

I am a compassionate clinician with an abiding interest in people generally. At my core, I believe in the dignity of human life, and has dedicated my life in the service of my fellow humans to improve their lot in life, and achieve their true potential as productive members of society. I am in the helping business. Helping clients navigate life difficulties, be it serious medical diagnosis, major life events or developing adaptive coping strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of death and dying and grief and loss.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut and a Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island and have over 15 years experience. I earned my Master of Science in Counseling and Development from Long Island Post University and have worked in various agencies focusing on a person-centered approach to helping others. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use issues, parental/relationship concerns as well as career challenges.

Dr. Tracy LaChapelle (Dr. T) is a licensed professional counselor with a doctorate in educational leadership. She specializes in the treatment of adolescents and adults. Evidence-based trauma-informed practices are used to treat trauma, depression, anxiety, loneliness, ADHD, Dis-Abilities, self-esteem concerns, social anxiety, autism, social skills deficits, and various life transitions. Dr. T provides Transgender-Gender Affirming Care, serving members of the LGBTQ+ population and their families to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for self-exploration and self-acceptance. Dr. T says, "Engaging in therapy is not about changing a person; it is finding the person, their strengths, and supporting them to be their true selves."

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.

Hi. I am Denise DeBrady, LCSW. I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Master's degree in Social Work. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work with clients of all ages, and using a warm, safe environment, assist my clients to identify their strengths, goals, and abilities to cope with and overcome their symptoms and discomforts.