Therapists in Florida

Hello and Welcome. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, problem gambling and healthy living with a chronic illness for 22 years. By creating a safe, supportive environment, I help clients address challenging issues and life transitions with compassion, insight and gentle humor. I focus on your strengths while incorporating problem solving strategies that allow you to become an active participant in the healing process. The decision to enter therapy takes courage. It can be hard work. It can also change your life and I'm a firm believer that it's never too late to make those changes.

I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen their relationships and achieve their goals. I have an integrated counseling approach, based primarily in cognitive-behavioral therapy, with couples and family counseling influenced by team research. I offer a warm and empathetic environment, while empowering you. (Office appointments available in Orlando and teletherapy throughout Florida.) With a focus on internal and relational dynamics, clients are supported in sharing openly, finding clarity in their needs and goals, and then working together in a iterative process to establish practical and successful steps forward. I look forward to work with you.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, birth doula, yoga teacher, and professor with a passion for walking alongside people through life’s most complex seasons. My work is rooted in compassion, evidence-based practice, and a belief that healing involves the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. In my practice, I specialize in reproductive and perinatal mental health, trauma recovery, and supporting individuals and couples navigating infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, loss, and life transitions. I also work with clients facing chronic illness and the lingering impact of stress and anxiety. My integrative approach may include traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, yoga-based techniques, and psychoeducation, tailored to fit your unique needs and goals. Clients often describe me as calm, supportive, and practical. I believe therapy should feel like a safe place where you don’t have to “have it all together.” Instead, you’ll find space to process honestly, learn effective tools, and build resilience. Whether you are seeking short-term support or long-term healing, we’ll work together at your pace to create meaningful change. Beyond the therapy room, I teach and mentor future social workers, which keeps me grounded in both current research and real-world practice. My experience as a doula and yoga teacher allows me to bring a holistic, nurturing lens to therapy that honors your strengths while addressing challenges. Above all, I want you to know: you don’t have to walk this path alone. Healing is possible, and I would be honored to support you in finding your way forward.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, tired, depressed, or find yourself needing support to move towards making new changes in your life? If so, I am here to assist you. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing services to all age groups with a focus on adolescents, teens, college students, and young adults who are looking for relief from difficulties such as depression, anxiety, working through past and recent traumas, or for those looking for support with stress, and coping through life transitions.

Trauma that begins in childhood or within family systems can leave lasting imprints on how you feel, relate, and move through the world. When the people meant to protect you caused harm—or failed to protect you—your nervous system learned to survive in ways that may now feel confusing, exhausting, or out of your control. You may struggle with emotional numbness, panic, hypervigilance, dissociation, difficulty trusting others, or a persistent sense of shame that doesn’t belong to you. I specialize in working with adults impacted by complex PTSD, childhood trauma, family trauma dynamics, sexual abuse, and physical abuse. Many of my clients are outwardly capable and resilient, yet internally overwhelmed—carrying wounds that were never given space to heal. Therapy with me is not about rushing your process, reliving every detail of your past, or being told to “move on.” It is about safety, pacing, and respect. My work is trauma-informed and nervous-system focused, helping you understand your trauma responses without judgment and reconnect with your body in a way that feels grounding rather than overwhelming. Together, we gently separate who you are from what happened to you, allowing the parts of you shaped by survival to finally rest. In our work, we focus on restoring a sense of safety, strengthening boundaries, reducing panic and dissociation, healing relational wounds, and rebuilding trust in yourself. You are not broken—your responses make sense given what you’ve endured. Healing is possible, and you do not have to do it alone.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed with your emotions and anxiety, feeling frequently out of control? Does the negative self talk impacts your life, relationship and performance? I hear you! I help busy and driven individuals to restore the balance within themselves and relationship with loved ones so you can become a new "upgraded" version of yourself. Whether you are experiencing increased anxiety or fear of failure or judgement from others. I am here to help you improve quality of your thoughts that impact your actions to bring quality results.

Welcome to my page! I'm Stacie, a Licensed Therapist offering telehealth and in person. As a devoted therapist, my mission is to empower individuals, couples, and families to thrive amidst life's challenges, offering guidance, support, and valuable insights. Let's embark on a journey of growth and well-being together! Let's see if we are a good fit, schedule a consultation TODAY!

Hi, I’m Jessica, a therapist who works with clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore emotions, build coping skills, and create meaningful change. My approach is practical, compassionate, and tailored to each person’s unique needs. I value collaboration and work at a pace that feels right for you. Together, we’ll identify what’s getting in the way and find tools that support long-term growth and well-being.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with a wide variety of people and concerns. I have experience working with depression, anxiety and relationship challenges. My therapy style is collaborative and client centered. I believe each person is unique and has their own story, their own challenges and their own needs. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective and use a variety of methods to help my clients. I am open to working with my clients using the tools and methods they find most useful. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to help them find solutions to challenges, improve their well-being and support them in their journey.

Hello, My name is Philomena , but you can call me Philo, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker- Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida who has been in the field since 2013. My work history is colored with working with Teen Mother experiencing Crisis Pregnancy who opted to parent or place their children for adoption, assessing the Veteran population for biopsychosocial needs, and working in the educational setting as a School Therapist for Middle and High School age students. I have a love for Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies and Social Work Practice with the Elderly and have Undergrad and Graduate Certificates in both areas, respectively. While my resume and credentials may speak to my professional qualifications, I have many additional experiences that support my knowledge and cultural sensitivity. I offer a zeal for working with older teens, young adults, and women wishing to manifest change in their lives. I have worked with students struggling under social pressures and depression and have a natural knack for life skills, career guidance and helping others adjust to "Adulting." I firmly believe in the connectivity to ourselves and our environment and utilize a Systems / Strength-Based approach, focusing on what can be accomplished rather than deficits. Working as a Psychotherapist at NOLA Adulting LLC, I am able to help in bridging the gap between what formal education has taught us and life experiences. High School has prepared us for solving the quadratic equation, running a mile under 10 minutes, and understanding that in 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue, but we are not prepared on how to manage that feeling of emptiness we may experience post graduation and entering the workforce, setting appropriate boundaries in interpersonal relationships, or correct work email etiquette when we are fed up.

Many of us navigate the world using the survival skills we learned in our childhood. We often grew up learning to view and interact with the world in a way that made us feel safe. Now, some of these survival styles hinder us from building deeper connections with others and ourselves. Our marriage becomes challenging, family interactions feel superficial, and we often feel the need to be vulnerable but don't out of fear of judgment. This stops us from connecting with others, establishing boundaries, and making better decisions.

I’m Julio Cruz Rodríguez, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and I provide services exclusively in Spanish. I have extensive experience in clinical mental health and dedicate my work to supporting individuals in their emotional growth process, helping them navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I use an integrative approach, tailoring interventions to the unique needs of each person to promote their well-being and personal development. Soy Julio Cruz Rodríguez, Consejero Clínico en Salud Mental, y ofrezco servicios exclusivamente en español. Cuento con amplia experiencia en salud mental clínica y me dedico a acompañar a personas en su proceso de crecimiento emocional, ayudándolas a manejar retos como la ansiedad, la depresión, el duelo y las transiciones de vida. Utilizo un enfoque integrativo, adaptando las intervenciones a las necesidades únicas de cada persona para promover su bienestar y desarrollo personal.

Hi, I’m Brooke, a licensed therapist who helps adults find relief from anxiety, heal from trauma, and navigate the transitions that life inevitably brings. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative . I want you to feel comfortable, understood, and supported from the very beginning. I primarily draw from CBT, ACT, and EMDR, but I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I get to know you as a person so that we can tailor therapy to what works best for you. Clients often describe me as “calming,” and I think that reflects the kind of space I try to create : one where you can let your guard down, explore what’s happening beneath the surface, and begin to move toward real change. I became a therapist because I know what it’s like to suffer and I believe that no one should have to stay stuck in pain or face it alone.

Talking to someone new can be extremely difficult. Are you looking to talk to someone non-judgmental and authentic. Someone who will guide you in making changes in your behavior, thought process and emotions. You may have been impacted by life circumstances, stressors, or even a traumatic event that wasn’t within your control. It's important to be patient with yourself as you set goals. My name is Melissa Bryant. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience. It takes courage to talk with someone new. I am convinced you can face each obstacle and be victorious. Please be patient with yourself, as you take the next steps. I invite you to join me as I help you bring to light your strengths and overcome challenges that may have stagnated you from reaching your full potential.

Hi! I'm a licensed counselor in Florida (LMHC), Texas (LPC-Supervisor), and Utah (LCMHC). With over a decade of experience, my journey in mental health began with a passion for helping individuals overcome life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to continuous learning and professional development. I have specialized training in trauma-informed therapies, which allows me to provide compassionate and effective support to clients who have experienced trauma. Understanding the profound impact trauma can have on an individual's life, I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their experiences and find healing. In addition to my work with individuals, I have a deep commitment to helping couples strengthen their relationships. I am trained in the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to couples therapy that focuses on building strong, healthy relationships. Using this method, I assist couples in navigating and healing from betrayals, enhancing their communication, and fostering a deeper connection. Witnessing couples transform their relationships and rediscover trust and intimacy is incredibly rewarding. Outside of my professional life, I am passionate about self-care and mindfulness. I often incorporate these practices into my therapy sessions, empowering clients to develop their own self-care routines. I believe that a holistic approach to mental health, which includes attention to physical, emotional, and mental well-being, is essential for achieving lasting positive change. Whether working with individuals or couples, my goal is to help my clients build resilience, find balance, and lead fulfilling lives. By providing a supportive and empathetic space, I strive to guide my clients on their journey towards healing and personal growth.

Hi! I am Dr. Barnes Marrero, licensed psychologist / Clinical Neuropsychologist, providing culturally informed psychological and neuropsychological evaluations in English and Spanish to adult and older adults from Florida. Know that I am here to support you. It’s my priority to make you feel at ease. It can feel scary to sit for an assessment. Feeling anxious, unsettled, or nervous about the process is normal. Testing can sometimes feel like a cold process. I promise, there’s nothing to be afraid of. It is not like school—there are no right or wrong answers; it is not a pass-or-fail situation. Instead, it’s a way to gain a comprehensive understanding of what you’re going through. I will meet you genuinely interested in where you’ve been and what’s happening. You will experience a YOU-centered judgment-free space. I hope my easygoing and friendly nature makes you comfortable.

Hi. I'm Nichole. I am a licensed counselor in the state of Florida. I specialize in stress management, ADHD, women's issues, domestic violence, and relationship issues (for the individual). I do not work with couples at this time. I like to take an individualized, eclectic approach and tailor our sessions to the best approach for you. My background includes work in hospital settings, community mental health, substance use, case management, health care workers and CPI. I enjoy exploring underlying issues and finding ways to increase overall joy and peace in your life. I will meet you where you're at and assist you in identifying strengths and ways to apply them to reaching your goals.

Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can heal. Let's work together! She can be described as calm and relaxed, something many of her clients have appreciated during times of crisis. She often uses a mindfulness, CBT, Trauma focused approach in helping her clients overcome stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She is available to work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.

I've worked with adults, children and families for the last 20 years recognizing behaviors and patterns. I have helped clients in alleviating anxiety, depression, family issues, addiction, PTSD, life transitions treating their mental health issues. I use different treatment modalities working with each client to suit their individual needs. When we are able to reprogram the mind, letting go of old patterns, we begin the healing journey and get in touch with our authentic selves.

Hello, I am Dr. Nawal Aboulhosn. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), and a certified Addiction Professional (CAP). I have completed the Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) training. I hold a doctorate with an emphasis on family and marriage Counseling. I have over seventeen years of experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and in Private Practice. My experience includes working with individuals, couples and families. My therapeutic approach is strength-based with eclectic therapeutic techniques that conform to the individualized needs of my clients. I have extensive training in trauma, grief, narrative therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. I am an avid believer in a holistic approach to mental health therapy: mind, body, emotional and social factors. I am heavily involved in continued research of the different trends of therapy. I love traveling, gardening, and running. I appreciate knowing and learning about the different cultures. I love animals and I consider them an essential therapeutic relief. It takes courage to take the first step towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and help you unlock your awaiting possibilities. If you can change your mind, you can change your life! I hope to earn the right to hear your story! I look forward to working with you! I have experience in providing services to military service members and their families as a Military Family Life Counselor (MFLC) for five years. I am currently serving the school board district in Highlands County as a mental health counselor for different age groups, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle and High schools. Respectfully, Nawal Aboul-Hosn, PHD, LMHC, LMFT

Greetings! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida and the owner/CEO of Breaking BHAD Counseling, LLC. I am a US Army veteran and graduate of Webster University with a Master of Arts in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Track). I have been practicing in various mental health settings for six years, working with diverse adult populations across diverse demographics. I am seriously passionate about helping people overcome challenges like addiction, anxiety, depression, adjustment to life after long periods of incarceration, and relationship issues.

The most important person in our session will be you. I believe that until you put the oxygen mask on yourself, you cannot solve your issues or help anyone else. There are no perfect people--my role is to help you put down that burden and walk with you while you find your path. Together we will walk through the journey of your life, explore your choices and help you achieve your destiny. Freedom feels great. My years of experience as a Master's Level Therapist with a Certification in Addiction studies has prepared me to address any issue that may arise during our time together. Together we will explore your childhood, your relationships, your life today, and find a road home that is comfortable and attainable. There is nothing WE can't handle. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you.

Hi, I am a licensed mental health counselor who focuses on identity transformation! I work with those who feel the achievements are there, yet still feels misaligned in what you do versus who you truly are. This identity crisis shows up in subtle ways - the anxiety that greets you before meetings, the exhaustion from maintaining the "strong Black woman" image, the longing for relationships where you can finally be real. I want you to know that transformation is possible. That having more alignment and authenticity in the way you show up is possible. In our work together, we'll move beyond just understanding why you code-switch or people-please and help your system find its way back to your truth using Internal Family Systems therapy. Imagine walking into any room fully grounded in who you are. Picture making decisions from your core self, not from old wounds. It's time to transform your relationship with yourself - to heal those outdated identities and create a life that truly feels like yours.

Hello! My name is Natalie Lewis, a licensed mental health counselor with a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I currently work with children, individuals, families, and couples for over 15 years, both online and in my private practice. Relationships can be challenging when you consider different personalities and expectations. My goal through therapeutic interventions is to assist my clients with managing anxiety, depression, stress, feeling overwhelmed, and feeling misunderstood.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I work with individuals of all ages to help them navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relationship concerns. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you feel supported and understood as we work toward meaningful change together. When you’re ready to take that next step outside your comfort zone, I’ll be here to help you heal, grow, and feel better.

Dr. Lopez is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Florida. He specializes in mindfulness-based therapy and neuropsych evaluations. He works with you on constructing an environment that allows growth and employs judgment-free techniques to help you change the relationship you have with uncomfortable emotions and/or moments in life. Reach out! A journey of a thousand miles starts with one step.

Sherry Miller, M.S., LPC (OK, TX,WI), LCPC, (IL), LMHC (FL, MA), CSADC (IL), CSAC (WI), LADC (OK), M-CAP (FL), ICS (WI), BC-TMH. Hi there. My name is Sherry Miller. I have a Master of Science in Human Service Community Counseling from National Louis University at Chicago, IL. I pride myself in strict confidentiality; with a unique insight into my consumers. Because I have been in a program of Recovery from Alcohol, Drugs, and Codependency for the past 28 plus years I knows firsthand what it takes to find the truth of oneself and want assist you with your own unique and personal journey of self-awareness. I am dually licensed to treat mental health and substance abuse concerns. I am also licensed as an Independent Clinical Supervisor in the field of Addictions. My clinical interests include family dysfunction, addiction treatment, co-dependency, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and family, individual, or group counseling. I have over 28 years’ experience in the treatment of anger, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, behavioral issues, parent education, fearfulness, addiction issues, and co-occurring disorders. I am board certified to do telehealth (counseling over the internet) for clients that cannot make it to the office for their counseling appointment or prefer the comfort of having their counseling session in the privacy of their own home. I am experienced working with all ages, genders, and the LGBTQ community. In addition, I have experience working on a college campus with college age persons. In my free time you will find me spending time with my cats, and dogs, riding my horses, riding my bike or working out at the gym.

My name is Circe Dunwoody. I am a license psychotherapist. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples and individuals to overcome life difficulties by using cognitive behavior therapy. Many couples and individuals feel overwhelmed by the desire to balance the high demands from work and family life. They report feelings of emptiness and loss of drive. Some report feeling of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Others contemplate divorce as a solution to decrease the pressure they are internalizing. You can contact me for help if you are experiencing some of the feelings I have mentioned above, and you are ready to make changes in your life. l work with couples and individuals in a safe and confidential platform environment. In life we all need support and understanding from others. Sometimes the best solution is to seek professional help. Having emotional support is extremely helpful. Relying on friends or family members is also helpful. However, you may not want to overwhelm them with problems. The most intelligent solution is seeking professional help.

Are you experiencing stress, worry, racing thoughts, impaired sleep, feeling on edge, heart racing, nightmares, or/and flashbacks? Do you replay moments in your head? My specialty is helping women uncover the root of their problems and empowering them with tools to regain balance, calm, and confidence. You don’t have to face it all alone. Let me help you on this journey! Imagine yourself empowered, as we find recurring themes and self-defeating patterns. You will discover ways to overcome fear and other emotional obstacles. Problems, once confronted, lead to insights and newfound strength, self-acceptance and freedom. My advanced training is in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from anxiety, trauma and PTSD symptoms. My experience and training help us to quickly identify key issues, unconscious factors and ways to resolve them. My primary focus is on helping women find balance and peace after experiencing trauma, navigating through life transitions and unhealthy relationships. I can work with you to develop healthy coping skills and gain insight. I love to help others feel at peace and whole again. If there is one thing that I would like for you to know is that the most crucial part of therapy is to find a therapist that you trust. My priority is to create a genuine connection with my clients by creating a safe and non-judgmental space for them. I am a Latina Christian woman who loves serving my community wholeheartedly; with no judgement. Let me help you reclaim your voice, your confidence, and your sense of direction. You deserve to feel at peace with yourself and proud of the woman you’re becoming.

Hello, My name is Najja Cummings. I have been providing psychotherapy for 5 years. I have worked in a multitude of settings with diverse populations. I have worked in community agency, child welfare, jails, private practice, hospice, etc. I have worked with athletes (collegiate and high school). I have worked with a diverse range of diagnoses from your basic adjustment disorders to your more severe such as schizophrenia. I am committed to aiding individuals in their quest to better deal with life stressors and getting a grasp of their mental health. I would love the opportunity to be able to assist on your journey of self-improvement.

I am a therapist who helps individuals explore their relationships—with themselves, partners, family, and others—on a deeper level. My work focuses on understanding how childhood experiences and attachment patterns shape current relationship dynamics. Many clients come to me experiencing anxiety, stress, anger, depression, or the impact of trauma. Together, we work to identify patterns, break cycles, and build healthier, more secure relationships grounded in self-awareness and emotional safety.

Are you wondering if your drug or alcohol use is becoming a problem? Do you know that it is a problem, but cannot seem to control it? I am experienced in working with a range of substance use issues, from mild to severe, as well as process or behavioral addictions, such as addictions to sex, shopping, pornography, food, and people. Effective psychotherapy can include helping limit your use and minimize its consequences, or complete abstinence, and an assessment if medication such as Suboxone, Methadone, or Vivitrol is right for you.

Imagine a life where it wasn't a struggle to get out of bed. A life where you feel confident in your own skin. You trust and love yourself for who you are, not who others want you to be. Your relationships are working and you are capable of setting healthy boundaries. Right now, life may not look anything like that. You may feel depressed, anxious, worthless, lost, or even stuck. I'm Kendra, a Licensed Therapist, and I help women who struggle with boundary setting, self-love and relationship issues. If you're a woman struggling with self-esteem, difficulty establishing healthy boundaries within your relationships, or work-life balance, then you're in the right place. My virtual space is free of judgment for women like you. I provide a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach by integrating evidenced based treatment specific for your needs.

Hello! I am so glad you came across my profile; and that you are considering taking this very important step towards changing your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker, based in the Raleigh Durham area of North Carolina. I am licensed in North Carolina, Connecticut, Florida, and Texas. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and my graduate degree from the University of Georgia. I have spent the majority of my career in healthcare settings and working with adults who are experiencing challenges with mental health. I help clients with long-term health conditions find effective coping skills as well as meaning and acceptance in their diagnosis. I have also worked with children who have a loved one facing a life-altering medical diagnosis. My experience is not limited to working with individuals who are facing a medical diagnosis, as I also have worked extensively with clients facing depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, self-esteem issues, and end-of-life challenges. I view therapy as a collaboration, as you are the expert of your own life; we will work jointly to create a treatment that is both realistic and meaningful so that you can live a full and value-driven life! I have a certificate to provide tobacco cessation counseling for individuals looking to live a smoke-free lifestyle.

You're not alone in wanting to feel more connected, understood, and at peace. I'm here to walk alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges and rediscover your strength. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples work through relationship struggles, rebuild after infidelity, emotional disconnection, and overcome anxiety. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space that blends evidence-based care with faith-based insight and holistic tools—honoring your whole self: mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're healing from betrayal, seeking clarity, or longing to reconnect, I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Hello! I’m Belinda Paulicin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving Florida and Indiana with over 20 years of experience. I hold a doctorate and master’s degree in clinical social work. I have advanced certification and training in evidence-based and trauma-focused interventions. I work with families, individuals, and communities from various backgrounds. My focus is on building capacity and resilience to cope with life challenges.

My name is LaTonya Thomas and I am a license clinical social worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 14 years and has worked with clients with anxiety, depression, grief, life transition and many more diagnosis. My goal is to help the clients become aware of what may be going on with them and ways to handle it.