I specialize in Trauma. I'm down to earth and real, with a side of wit and compassion. I have a background in crisis; I have worked in Psychiatric Hospitals, Medical Hospitals, Emergency Departments and Trauma Centers. As a former 2nd responder, my practice has developed into an integrative approach to therapy with the body's natural biological approach at the heart. Primarily, my approach is to get to the root of the issue, but more importantly, how to heal.

Hello, I am Viktoria. Life doesn't always go as planned, and transitions, illness, and trauma are rarely anticipated. Are you struggling with self-defeating patterns that are causing depression, anxiety, and /or a feeling of being stuck? Do you want to make changes in your personal and professional life? Do you have challenges in your relationship? Individuals have unique and individual needs, which should be recognized. Most of the time, you will be able to handle the situation with the help of your friends and family or on your own. There are times when you might need professional guidance and support to learn specific techniques to help you manage your thoughts and feelings. An important aspect of therapy is the opportunity to explore feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, grief, and shame, and to begin the process of creating positive and lasting changes. This takes place in a non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship based on empathy, trust, safety, and compassion. My style is calm, warm, and relaxed, and I believe in creating a safe environment for you in which compassion, support, and humor can flourish. Together, we can gain insight and understanding of the relationships between emotions, core beliefs and behaviors in order to find solutions to the problems you are facing.

I am a Licensed Mental Health counselor in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, with 20 years of experience. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma informed therapy, and client centered approach. I have served as a rape crisis counselor, foster care therapist, and crisis response counselor. I hold certifications as a sexual violence and domestic violence advocate. Other areas of expertise include, but are not limited to; PTSD treatment, depression and anxiety, stress management, ADHD, grief and loss issues, veterans needs and issues.

Hi there. I’m Marlene, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and licensed in Florida and New York. I work with young and older adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, loneliness, family issues, relationship issues and loss. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Strength- Based Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy to help you make progress and start feeling better. Throughout my over 15 years of experience, I have been fortunate to work with children, and adults including home-bound adults, and seniors. Some of my areas of specialization include mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, working to reduce depressive symptoms and strengthening self-esteem. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and a Certified Grief Informed Professional.

I am Beth Cutler, I provide counseling to adults, and children, My experience affords me the ability to bond with children. My experience is that I was a Kindergarten teacher and a guidance counselor in the schools prior to counseling in private practice. I provide therapy to individuals, couples and families. For the courts I provide parent education to parents of separation or divorce with custodial age children, the pre-marital counseling prior to marriage, parent coordination, mediation. supervision of parents and children during supervised visits and anger management. My office is a safe place for you to share.

I am a bilingual therapist licensed in the state of Florida. I graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and the University of South Florida with a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. I additionally obtained certifications as a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Rehabilitation Counselor. I have extensive experience working in a psychiatric hospital and in private practice.

Welcome — I know reaching out for therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve spent a long time feeling misunderstood, emotionally exhausted, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or unsure how to move forward. Many of my clients come to therapy struggling with anxiety, emotional overwhelm, relationship stress, self-worth issues, attachment wounds, or feeling disconnected from themselves and the people around them. Some are navigating conflict, betrayal, burnout, identity concerns, or simply feeling “stuck” despite trying hard to hold everything together. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, understood, and challenged in a healthy way. I take a compassionate but active approach to therapy — helping clients not only process emotions, but also understand their patterns, regulate their nervous system, and build practical tools for lasting change. You do not have to figure everything out alone.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I received my Masters of Social Work from Walden University , with understudy work completed at Jacksonville University. I have enjoyed working in the helping profession for over 25 years. Through my certifications, I have gained knowledge and experience on how to help others help themselves. This is my Why and I am blessed to help others find theirs through this great work.

Hello I am a Psychotherapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in both Florida and Maryland. I have been practicing in the Mental Health Field for 25 years. I offer couples, individual, marital and family counseling. I most commonly treat the following conditions: military and veteran related stress, service connected or millitary retirement transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, emotional abuse, narcisstic abuse recovery, betrayal trauma and stress associated with relationship issues and infidelity, couples, pre-marital and family issues. I specialize in working with the Military and Veteran population and their families for over 24 years. I am a trained and certified as a Star Behavioral Health Provider for Military and Veterans.

Hello! I am a passionate and seasoned therapist who will help you achieve a sense of balance, inner harmony, and enthusiasm to be and to feel your best and to live the life you deserve. Results driven therapist with over 30 years of professional experience treating a wide range of problems. Depression, anxiety, loss, partner, substance abuse, occupational, trauma, military, and many other issues. I have 15 years of VA experience treating veterans. Give me a call or drop me a line, we will work on this together.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Florida. I have over eight of experience working in a variety of settings. My therapeutic practice is grounded in the understanding that each client's situation uniquely impacts their well-being. I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood, empowering you to take charge of your health.

Have you been able to follow through on your personal goals and aspirations? Maybe what is needed is a deep dive into why you keep choosing the same old same old. Maybe it’s time to finally choose peace instead of survival. Unresolved trauma need not interrupt your life and your personal relationships. I specialize in working with first responders and veterans. I use a multi-model approach to fit each client's style and needs. I specialize in Client Centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. The mind's only job is to protect the body, our fear inducing thoughts that keep us in a constant state of alarm serve a purpose. Together we will question the mind's beliefs and start to sort the beliefs that serve us in the goals that we have established.

I specialize in supporting women who are ready to heal their worthiness wound and step fully into a life defined by self-love, peace, and authenticity. Many of the women I work with have spent years trying to meet impossible expectations—balancing careers, relationships, and responsibilities while quietly feeling “not enough.” I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can release those pressures, rediscover your inner strength, and reconnect with the radiant, whole version of yourself that’s always been there. My approach is both compassionate and collaborative. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that have kept you stuck and gently create new ways of thinking, feeling, and showing up in the world. I draw on mindfulness, self-compassion, and trauma-informed practices to help you nurture self-worth and build a life that feels aligned and meaningful.

I received my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. I have an extensive background in working with mental health and addictions. I approach therapy from an individualist, holistic, and integrative lens. I strive to provide a safe and confidential environment to assist in the counseling process. I help clients transform into a more authentic, healthy, and balanced version of themselves.

I’m a licensed mental health counselor with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life‘s challenges and transitions. My goals are to help individuals achieve their highest potential, develop healthy coping skills, and live the life they aspire to. I offer a supportive space where clients can feel seen, heard and empowered. Through our work together, my goal is to help you gain clarity, build resilience and move toward a more grounded and fulfilling life.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both Florida and California, and a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. I work with individuals and couples, including service members, veterans, and their family members, who are seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My work is grounded in partnership, reflection, and healing during times of uncertainty and ongoing change.

Hello I am Aida Sek, LCSW, a bilingual trauma psychotherapist, holding licenses in the states of Florida, Virginia and Colorado. Some of my specialties include trauma, addiction and codependency recovery, PTSD resolution through EMDR, perinatal mental health, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, conflict resolution, multicultural and adjustment issues. Being born in Colombia, made me understand the value and importance of cultural, ethnic, and varied backgrounds, and recognize the multitude of strengths born from these areas. Specific to my practice, each client is met with a sacredness regarding their culture and background, holding the client in unconditional positive regard.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the State of Florida and I have Master's degrees in both Counseling and Psychology and in Biblical Studies and Theological Foundations. I have been practicing for 14 years and assisted numerous clients with pre-marital counseling, marriage and family challenges, and individual counseling. I also facilitate groups around topics that are relevant to strengthening relationships.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida. I received my Masters from the Barry University and have been practicing for over 14 years in mental health, substance abuse, nephrology, and hospice. I help individuals who are struggling with life challenges that have led to feelings of emptiness, unfulfilled, loss of purpose, overwhelmingly tired, with no sense of direction. Those individuals typically feel stuck with current life stressors and lose hope for a better future. Together we work to bring about new perspectives on life and create balance for a healthier mind & a healthier living.

Your journey unfolds through real connections and transformative experiences. Your growth, understanding, and healing are the primary focus that we share. Let's walk together on this path of self-discovery and empowerment. Every story is unique, every voice matters. Whatever your challenge, concerns, or issues may be, therapy can help to improve your life, perspective, and behaviors. All age groups are accepted. I have extensive experience working with young children, teens, and adults.

Demetrius K. Jifunza is a passionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida, providing individual, couples, and family therapy and mental health treatment to formerly incarcerated individuals and the families of loved ones currently incarcerated. I have worked with clients with diverse backgrounds consisting of a wide range of concerns, including depression, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and grief and loss.

Hi! My name is Chloe and I am passionate about my work with others. I began my journey working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I worked with survivors of all ages and gender identities. I have expanded my journey to include working with clients experiencing a wide array of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, self-esteem, self-harm, and work-life balance. I welcome clients with concerns beyond those listed and am dedicated to increasing my knowledgeable so that I may effectively meet the needs of my clients.

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I received my Master of Social Work from at the University of Central Florida. I'm a Florida native, where I've raised my children as a single mom and business owner. I have learned to roll with the punches and enjoy helping others not only survive, but thrive in adversity.

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I have several years of experience providing therapy services. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hi! I am Claudia Nichols. I received my Masters Degree from the University of Alabama and have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years. During this time, I had the opportunity to assess and treat individuals of all ages who were struggling with many different stressors. The primary focus of my practice at present is to assist clients with identifying areas for change so that they can reduce negative symptoms and improve his or her quality of life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my Masters from the Lynn University and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults 35 and over struggling with life stress and family dysfunction. I believe these underlying issues compose our personalities and affect how we interact with others and cause an impact on present relationships, jobs and self-esteem. The symptoms of these historical issues are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and an ability to feel good about oneself.

Hello, my name is Veronica, and I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. My calling is to encourage and support my clients on their journeys to improving their relationships with others and more importantly, with themselves. I believe that each of us has the power to heal and grow as individuals. My goal, through the use of therapy, is to educate, empower, and provide clients with the necessary tools to cope with life’s challenges.

Welcome—I'm so glad you're here. Whether you're navigating a challenging season, healing from past wounds, or simply searching for a safe space to grow, I want to honor the courage it takes to reach out for support. My name is Victoria, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping individuals find clarity, healing, and peace. In our work together, you’ll find a nonjudgmental space where you are seen, heard, and supported. I take a trauma-informed, person-centered approach that respects your lived experience while drawing from evidence-based practices tailored to your needs—whether that includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Christian counseling, or other supportive modalities. My goal is to walk alongside you as you make sense of your story, reconnect with your strengths, and move toward the life you desire. Whether you’re ready to begin or simply exploring your options, I’d be honored to connect with you.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that therapy should feel safe, supportive, and empowering. My journey has taken me through community work, addictions treatment, psychiatric inpatient care, dialysis support, residential treatment with adolescents on the Autism spectrum, and private practice. These experiences allow me to understand people deeply—mind, body, family, and environment—and to tailor therapy in a way that honors your whole story. I bring a blend of clinical expertise, creativity, and cultural awareness into every session.

My name is Sharonda Paugh, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am licensed in the state of Florida and have been for about 2 years. I attended school at the University of Central Florida in Orlando for my education. I am currently located in the state of Alaska, and have been for about 2 years, and I am passionate about my job and being able to help people gain a level of emotional and mental sense of freedom that they feel like they might be missing.

As a dedicated and compassionate mental health therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals on their journey to emotional well-being. I bring a fresh perspective, eagerness to learn, and a deep commitment to personal and professional growth. Fluent in Haitian Creole, I'm adept at addressing cultural and linguistic needs. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapeutic approaches. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief and postpartum. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to help individuals navigate everyday challenges. Whether working with individuals, couples, or groups, I'm dedicated to walking alongside clients as they explore their strengths, overcome obstacles, and build healthier, more fulfilling lives.

I am a licensed clinical social worker, who works primarily with women and teens navigating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma. My goal is to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can truly feel seen and heard. I currently offer individual therapy via telehealth, focusing on helping clients better understand themselves, build confidence, and reconnect with their sense of self.

Hey there! I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida with expertise in crisis intervention, evidenced-based treatments, and trauma-informed practices. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa in 2018 and Troy University with my masters in psychology and counseling in 2020. I enjoy spending time with my dogs, being outdoors and with quality family time.

Hello, I am Karen. Welcome, and thank you for taking the first step. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles of anxiety and depression, or facing challenges in your relationships or daily life, I’m here to support you. Starting therapy is a courageous decision and often the most important step toward healing and change. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness practices, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My background includes extensive work with children, teens, and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions, and personal growth. I’m committed to creating a collaborative, compassionate space where you can feel safe, understood, and empowered. Together, we’ll work toward the goals that matter most to you.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the Tampa Bay area with master’s degrees in Professional Counseling and Addiction & Recovery. For more than ten years, I have worked with children, adults, and families across a broad range of clinical settings, including community counseling centers, residential treatment facilities, correctional institutions, behavioral health hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, hospice programs, substance use groups, and the criminal justice system. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, trauma‑informed, and strengths‑based. I prioritize creating a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel respected and supported as they explore their experiences. I integrate evidence‑based strategies to help individuals build practical skills, strengthen emotional regulation, and restore a sense of agency. Above all, I center each person’s dignity and self‑worth, tailoring care to meet their unique needs and goals.

Hola, soy Consejera Clínica en Salud Mental Licenciada y proveo servicios en ESPAÑOL. Ayudo a individuos, parejas y familias a encontrar balance, sanidad y propósito en sus vidas. Trabajo con adultos que enfrentan ansiedad, estrés, conflictos relacionales y transiciones importantes. Mi enfoque integra prácticas basadas en evidencia con una perspectiva compasiva y culturalmente sensible. Juntos crearemos un espacio seguro y de apoyo donde puedas obtener claridad, fortalecer tu resiliencia y avanzar hacia una vida más saludable y plena. _________________ Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, providing service in SPANISH. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families find balance, healing, and purpose in their lives. I work with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and life transitions. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and culturally sensitive perspective. Together, we will create a safe and supportive space where you can gain insight, build resilience, and move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Hello I’m Hillary, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I’m so glad you’re here. Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re navigating anxiety that won’t quiet down, depression that feels heavy, or the emotional shifts that come with pregnancy and motherhood. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and maternal mental health, and I’m passionate about helping clients find balance, clarity, and renewed hope. I work with children, teens, and adults, creating a supportive space tailored to each stage of life. No matter your age or season, you deserve to feel heard, understood, and equipped to manage what you’re facing. My approach is warm, collaborative, and holistic. I believe healing involves the mind, body, and soul working together. In our work, we’ll build practical coping skills while also exploring the deeper patterns that may be holding you back. My goal is to help you feel empowered, not just in session, but in your everyday life. You don’t have to navigate life’s obstacles alone. When you’re ready to take the next step toward emotional wellness and personal growth, it would be my honor to walk alongside you in that journey.

Hi, I’m Jonathan. I understand that life can feel heavy when you’re facing anxiety, trauma, grief, or relationship struggles. Reaching out for help can be a difficult step, but you don’t have to walk through these challenges alone. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space where you feel heard, supported, and understood. Together, we can explore the struggles you’re carrying, uncover your inner strengths, and find ways to create lasting change. I believe healing happens through compassion, trust, and honest connection, and it would be my privilege to walk alongside you as you discover hope and renewal in your life.

Es posible que hayas escuchado frases como: “ya pasó, sigue adelante, deja eso atrás.” Sin embargo, si el dolor persiste, si sientes un nudo en la garganta, si sientes que se estruja el corazón, si impacta tu día a día, si debes aparentar que todo está bien, es muy probable que estés experimentando respuestas asociadas al trauma. La terapia ofrece un espacio seguro y confidencial donde puedes procesar lo vivido, validar tus emociones y desarrollar herramientas para sanar y avanzar. El enfoque terapéutico centrado en el trauma permite trabajar de manera profunda y respetuosa con tu historia, fortaleciendo tu bienestar emocional. Este proceso suele recomendarse en un mínimo de 10 sesiones de terapia individual para lograr cambios significativos y sostenibles. You may have heard things like, “Just move on,” “let it go,” or “that’s in the past.” But if the pain is still there, if your heart feels heavy, if it affects your daily life, if you have to pretend everything is fine, or if it takes great effort just to get through your responsibilities, you may be experiencing trauma-related responses. Therapy offers a safe and supportive space where you can process what you’ve been through, validate your emotions, and develop healthy ways to heal and move forward. A trauma-focused approach allows us to work gently and effectively with your experiences while strengthening your emotional stability and sense of control. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), bilingual in English and Spanish, with extensive experience providing trauma-focused individual therapy. I earned my Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University in Miami, Florida, and have been practicing as a mental health professional since 2017. Prior to working in the United States, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree and practiced as a Psychotherapist in Cuba for eight years.

I’m Diana Ries, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience in counseling and healthcare. I offer a compassionate, direct, and results-focused approach that helps clients get to the root of emotional and relational struggles. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space, provide practical tools, and help clients leave with clarity, confidence, and hope in healing.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Therapist (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my degree from Nova Southeastern University in South Florida and have been practicing for the past 24years. I have experience helping teens, young adults and couples manage stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Hello, I am Maria Milana, a skilled LMHC in Florida who uses integrative and cognitive behavioral approaches tailored to my client's needs. I am collaborative with individuals and couples on their mental health journey toward personal growth through matters of anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and other diverse mental health difficulties. I understand the importance of creating a safe counseling environment and building a trusting, non-judgmental atmosphere to help my clients achieve positive mental health outcomes.

Welcome! Choosing to seek mental health treatment takes courage and I am willing to walk alongside you as you move towards healing and hope. My approach is rooted in compassion, cultural sensitivity and a holistic understanding of who you are, honoring your pace and your story. I also share helpful resources and encourage patients to lean on their community supports, including family, friends, and their church family.

As a licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Masters in Counseling Education, I bring a wealth of education and experience to my work. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience working in a variety of settings, residential, substance abuse treatment centers, and outpatient counseling programs. I have extensive experience implementing evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals develop coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, and promote emotional regulation. I have helped adults struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction borderline personality disorder.

I’m Dr. Monica Rodriguez, a bilingual licensed psychologist with over 14 years of experience helping clients heal, grow, and reconnect with their inner strength. I specialize in supporting clients struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, and emotional wounds, offering a compassionate, empowering space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal is to help you build a more loving relationship with yourself and create a life that feels aligned and meaningful.

Hey! I'm Brandee - I'm a licensed mental health counselor in Florida and I'm currently offering telehealth services throughout the state. I graduated from Nova Southeastern University in 2014 with a masters degree in Mental Health Counseling, and received my bachelor's degree in psychology in 2011 from the University of South Florida. Since then, I have worked in various in person and telehealth settings.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida. I obtained my Masters Degree from Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY in 1998. I enjoy assisting others in redesigning their lives. My focus is on individual and couples counseling. Helping to bring positive changes to my client's lives is something I am motivated by, thankful for and excited to witness.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing therapy to adults and adolescents facing challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. I serve clients who are seeking support in navigating difficult life transitions, processing loss, or managing overwhelming emotions. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, using evidence-based methods like CBT and EMDR to help clients build coping skills, reframe unhelpful thought patterns, and heal from painful experiences. The impact I strive for is to empower clients to feel more resilient, regain a sense of control, and move forward with hope and confidence.

Hello, I’m Candace Johnson, a licensed mental health counselor based in Florida. I received a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from St. Thomas University and I have 12 years of clinical experience. I support individuals to overcome debilitating symptoms in order to achieve total wellness. Together, we’ll focus on recovery and create a clear actionable plan for self-healing!

I am a therapist who has a passion for helping others break free from burdens. I believe our deepest secrets can be blockages to moving forward in life. My mission with every client is to create a space where they feel safe to be authentic, while learning ways to regain control of their lives. I am honored to support you in this journey you are getting ready to embark on and I am rooting for your success in the healing process. I am sending you well wishes and a safe space to chat.