Therapists in Florida

Hi there! I am dual licensed in Florida as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I received my Masters from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida and have been practicing for 12 years. I tend to work with older adolescents and adults in living more authentic lives and being the best version of themselves. I am compassionate, but also honest and direct. I guarantee I will challenge you, but you will feel and know that it comes from a place of genuine care and a desire for you to live your best, most fulfilled, and healthiest life.

I’m Eve Coke, LMHC, MS, NCC, and I'm here to offer compassionate, personalized support tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. I specialize in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, and professional burnout. My services use a holistic approach, integrating effective, research-based techniques, including solution-focused problem-solving and cognitive-behavioral strategies. As a therapist, my passion lies in supporting you through life’s complexities, from relationship conflicts to everyday challenges. My mission is to help you create a happier, more fulfilling life, one step at a time.

Do you find yourself struggling with navigating the challenges of life with the need to escape? Addiction and avoidance are two very common mechanisms used in today’s world to deal with the crushing weight of life. Trust me, I get it. I have walked my own journey out of addiction into sobriety. It is a lifelong process that I embrace. It’s not just about breaking free from substances, but also achieving emotional sobriety. Time is a luxury many of us don’t feel that we have and we are constantly looking for the “quick fix,” but life has other plans. If you are looking beyond a “band aid solution” to living a better life today you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been there. I may be a therapist, but I’m a human first. A person just like you. Would you like to accept the invitation to enter into this journey of healing together? To go from surviving to learning how to thrive? To learn to unapologetically love yourself again, or maybe for the first time ever? You’re worth it. It’s your time to make yourself a priority.

As a dedicated therapist, I am passionate about working with both couples and individuals who are navigating life's challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. I integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and stress management tools, to tailor each session to the unique needs of my clients. Through our work together, I aim to empower individuals and couples to build resilience, enhance their well-being, and foster stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

You have taken a courageous step by seeking counseling, and I would be honored to help you meet your goals. I have worked as a counselor in Florida since 1983 and have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 1988. I have worked in numerous inpatient and outpatient settings, gaining experience with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I am confident I can help you with anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, ADHD, and other concerns. In addition to counseling, I love spending quiet time in nature (woods, beach, mountains), visiting art museums and galleries, and getting some exercise. For me, these are quiet episodes of escape from the challenges of life. I also love live music, but not because it's quiet.

Hi There! My name is Geline and I am passionate about helping others. I have worked for over 12 years in community mental health. I have experience working with individuals who live with a severe mental illness. I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, self –esteem issues, familial issues, codependency and trauma. I have spent a lot of time helping individuals develop coping skills and managing their symptoms. It is a passion of mines to aid others in their healing journey.

With over 17 years of experience in social services and 7 years as a practicing therapist, I have developed a deep appreciation for the power of connection, the courage of my clients, and the transformative nature of safe, consistent therapeutic work. My motivation to work in mental health stems from witnessing, time and again, the profound change that occurs when individuals are truly seen, heard, and supported in a space where they feel emotionally safe.

Hi, I’m Shayna, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida with 13+ years of experience supporting women, children, and families. I earned my Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University and have dedicated my career to helping clients find clarity, resilience, and healing. I specialize in working with women who feel overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, careers, and the pressure to “hold it all together.” In our sessions, I provide a safe space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and work through stress, trauma, or burnout. I also work closely with children and families navigating emotional struggles, behavioral challenges, or communication breakdowns. With a trauma-informed approach, I guide parents in understanding behaviors and building strategies that restore connection and peace at home. My goal is to offer both compassion and practical tools so you and your family can experience meaningful, lasting change.

Welcome to my practice! My name is Deb and I am a licensed therapist committed to meeting you exactly where you are at in your journey. Are you finding it difficult to reach a sense of balance and serenity in your current situation? You have come to the right place! I will help create a safe space for you in our therapy sessions to explore what may be preventing you from experiencing the life you desire. I use a gentle wholistic approach and will encourage you to move at whatever pace is comfortable for you. I also incorporate humor into sessions when appropriate. Through our time together, we will come up with ways to alleviate your symptoms and restore you back to a place of health. Seeking a therapist is a courageous step toward getting unstuck and moving towards the life you want - I look forward to working together!

As a licensed mental health therapist, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to explore your challenges and strengths. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to navigate life's complexities, fostering personal growth and lasting well-being. Together, we'll work to uncover new perspectives and develop practical strategies, so you can build a more resilient and fulfilling life.

Hi, I'm Tara, and my journey to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker has been a winding one. I grew up in California, served in the U.S. Coast Guard, studied abroad, and have three adult daughters. I completed my MSW at the University of New Hampshire and have had the privilege of providing mental health support and counseling to individuals from diverse backgrounds. My professional background includes working for a non-profit, providing therapy in residential, outpatient, and private practice settings.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been practicing for several years. I work with children, teens, and young adults who are navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered to build healthier coping skills, improve communication, and develop greater self-awareness. Together, we work toward feeling more confident, connected, and emotionally balanced.

Hello! Let me introduce myself......my name is Angie, nice to meet you! I am a mom of two boys and one granddaughter (whom has stolen my heart!). I am dedicated to my clients and learning new modalities. I understand how overwhelming therapy can be for some, my empathy and listening skills can help put my clients at ease.

As someone who has personally benefited from counseling, I understand firsthand how transformative it can be, even for those who may be skeptical. I’ve spent years supporting individuals, families, and groups on their journey to wellness, helping them uncover their unique strengths and develop personalized plans for success. I’m a self-proclaimed resource junkie, continuously seeking ways to provide valuable tools and insights that empower others. I specialize in working with teenagers, older adults, individuals with disabilities, and anyone who simply needs a compassionate listener. I’m passionate about how counseling and improving mental health can strengthen our community as a whole. Additionally, my experience extends into vocational rehabilitation and Social Security disability benefits counseling, allowing me to offer comprehensive support tailored to your needs. Together, we’ll work towards achieving your goals and fostering growth.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Florida. I'm experienced working with individuals, groups, couples and families. When working with an individual, couple or family I assess and addresses the entire family history, the sum of its parts, and not simply the individuals that comprise it. The distress or problem that originated may not solely be within an individual but a natural reaction to a family dynamic that creates the distress. By using Family Systems Theory I'm able to help the Client have a deeper awareness of their personal conflicts, how to resolve them, and live a more fulfilling life without addictions. I have a Bachelor’s from the University of Arizona and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. Im experienced working with Adolescents, LGBTQ+ Community, HIV/AIDS, Domestic Violence, Sex and Love Addiction, and 12 Step Recovery.

Hi! My name is McKinsey Kemp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I received my Masters Degree from California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB). I have been practicing for 6 years (1 year case management). I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced some form of trauma. I help my clients develop the skills that they need to process what they have experienced, so they may heal and find peace.

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in sunny Florida! I received my master’s degree from the University of South Florida and have been licensed and practicing for 30 years. I treat a wide array of areas, including anxiety, depression, substance use, parent-child relationships, self-esteem, life skills, and grief. I have worked with all ages, from 5-year-olds and beyond. I am a certified provider specializing in trauma, life skills, grief, ADHD, and dementia. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach. As we work together, you will find that a major focus is on building a strong therapeutic relationship where you feel supported and understood. I am empathetic, nonjudgmental, and a great listener. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a structured, goal-oriented therapy that encourages you to focus on current problems and find solutions, rather than dwelling on the past. This approach allows you to manage mental health conditions and emotional concerns by identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. I look forward to working together, problem-solving, and helping you feel like yourself again!

Hi, I’m glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a proud Army veteran. My time in the military taught me resilience, discipline, and how to face challenges head on and I bring that same mindset into my work as a therapist. I understand that reaching out for support takes courage, and my goal is to honor that step by providing a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. I work with adults and fellow veterans navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, helping them find tools that create real change in everyday life.

Hello everyone, my name is Carolina Gonzalez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 24 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals, including adolescents, couples and families. I support clients through challenges such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns and parenting. My approach is collaborative and tailored to each person's needs with methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and strength-based interventions. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor based in Florida. I received my Master's degree in Counselor Education with a Concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. I have been practicing for just over two years and my primary experience has been working with adults who live with substance use combined with mental health disorders. Prior to working as a therapist, I worked in behavioral health for various in/outpatient treatment centers. I have also recently began working with adolescents who are navigating behavioral issues.

I've been in the behavioral health field since 1999 and practiced as a therapist since 2006. I'm trauma-informed, neurodivergent affirming, and strengths-based in my approaches. I am EMDR certified and specialize in: anxiety, trauma, ADHD and neurodivergence. I'm also the parent of an autistic teen, so I know first-hand the challenges parents go through in trying to do what's best for their child and not always knowing what that is.

Hey there! Before I introduce myself, I want to congratulate you in taking this step in your healing! My name is Brittany Joseph and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in Miami, Florida. I earned my Masters of Social Work degree at the University of Southern California. I have eleven years of experience working with individuals experiencing difficult life transitions. I am proud to be of Haitian descent. With this background, I have witnessed and experienced the struggles of immigration, racism, micro aggressions and prejudice. These experiences has equipped me to provide clinical care from a culturally sensitive and empathetic perspective. I describe myself as outgoing and friendly. I am happily married with two beautiful sons, I love to dance, I enjoy watching basketball (Go Heat!) and relaxing at home. I look forward to walking alongside you on your healing journey!

I am a mental health clinician. I have worked in the field of mental health for 29 years. I am a retired public school educator/administrator, 48 years! I am an American Red Cross volunteer, 13 years. I volunteer in Disaster Mental Health, Services to the Armed Forces, Yellow Ribbons, as well as facilitate Reconnection Workshops for Deployed and Re-Deployed soldiers and veterans. I have been successful and quite effective in working with Addictions, Individuals, Couples, Families, school issues, Christian Counseling, and personality disorders. I enjoy my work in each of these entities. I love, love sharing in the growth and development of my clients!

I’m an LCSW in Florida, originally from the Midwest. I came to social work as a second career after personally experiencing how therapy can change lives. I’ve been working for over 20 years with all kinds of people coping with all kinds of stress, hardships and setbacks. I love to help people increase their self awareness, self acceptance, and overall happiness.

I am an individual, couple, and family therapist with experience helping people find solutions to a wide array of presenting problems. I specialize in working with: Teenagers and Adults struggling with self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, loss of hope, Couple and family/relationship issues dealing with family stressors, blended families, and parenting/co-parenting issues. I have worked extensively with families with child and adolescent problems. I believe the most effective and efficient way to help a person is to involve other members of their family so that the family reinforces any program of change. I am a Florida DCF Approved Provider (Florida Family Court requires divorcing/separating couples with minor children to complete a DCF approved parenting class before finalizing their divorce). At Family Solutions Counseling, my practice is faith-based. My faith and life experiences are why I chose to become a Counselor. I also approach client concerns from a Solution-focused perspective. We all possess strengths and resources that can be used to attain personal growth and overcome life's challenges. Each person is doing the best they can considering the context they live in and the relationships that exist in their lives. My job is not to judge but to build a level of trust, provide support, encourage the client to feel safe in expressing symptoms, and help find solutions.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with five years of experience. I specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients to achieve the goals we establish together in therapy. I provide a safe space to process complex emotions and explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Hello I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician (LMHC) who operates a virtual private practice in Florida. While I have been in the helping field since 2003, I transitioned to a clinical role in 2015 after completing my graduate studies at the Lincoln University in PA. In my practice I work with teens and adults who experience conflict or disconnection in their relationships whether it's intimate, peer, or family, those who experience difficulty regulating their emotions. I help my client live the life they desire and have supportive relationships with themselves and others.

In a session with me, I will be honest but also supportive. My goal is to get you to a place where you do not need me because we have worked together to help you build a supportive and fulfilling life. To that end, I will incorporate counseling in emotional processing, interpersonal communication, self-care, and career into your sessions because it is our whole lives that determine our happiness and ability to handle stress. I have about 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in business as an efficiencies expert. I have a wide variety of experience from my time in business working in IT and business administration in various markets (from finance to manufacturing). My decision to become a therapist was based on my need to restart my life more happily and healthily a little over 10 years ago. I take a more existential approach to psychotherapy and utilize other approaches such as CBT and DBT and teach about the brain and how it reacts to stress.

My name is Amanda, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Florida, Massachusetts, and Nevada. I graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a concentration in Criminology. I completed my Masters in Social Work from the University of Central Florida. My training includes various modalities, but my approach is often person-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused. I am always seeking to learn more in all areas, in effort to provide the best support that I can to the individuals that I work with.

Welcome and Congratulations on taking your first step towards healing. I'm Candyce Thomas, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, founder of Integral Therapy Services LLC. I have extensive professional work experience with adults, geriatrics, children and families in both healthcare and mental health settings. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, life transitions, motivation, self-esteem and confidence. 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. My primary goal is to provide a safe and bold space for you to navigate through emotional discomfort toward healing. Taking this first step on your journey to healing takes courage and my goal is to support my client along the way.

Hello! Life is a journey that can take us in many different directions. There are times that we can use extra support and guidance. Let me be that support to help get you back on track to reach your goals and achieve balance in your life. I realize that it can be difficult to reach out for support, but it can be an important step in your life. I have over 25 years experience in counseling individuals, families and couples in assisting them to find balance in their lives.

Hi there! Thanks for taking the time to check out my profile. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed in Florida, with over 15 years of experience. You don't have to be coupled or dealing with family issues for me to work with you, it simply means I have a unique perspective on how to assist you to meet the challenges of your life and thrive.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LMHC) and Educator in Florida. I have a counseling and mind-body healing practice in Miami and work for the Miami-Dade County Public School system as a School Counselor. I have mostly been working with and serving Miami-Dade youth and Miami-Dade educators over the last 20 years, helping them overcome self-doubt and anxious tendencies that keep them from self-awareness and connecting with their most peaceful, loving, and best versions of themselves.

Hello. I’m Patricia. We all face challenges in our lives. Some big, and some small. My goal is to help you successfully address challenges in your life that have become burdensome. I believe therapy should address the whole person because life challenges are often complex and can interrupt several parts of your life. I am dedicated to helping you by taking a therapeutic approach to include your physical, mental, and emotional needs. I use evidence-based therapy practices that have been proven to be effective. I provide services in a confidential, safe, caring and encouraging atmosphere. Consideration is always given to ethnic, religious, economic, or social needs you may have. Let’s conquer those burdensome challenges in your life together.

Hello, my name is Nicole! Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and what I do ! I am a licensed psychotherapist practicing in Florida. I love what I do and I am honored to have the opportunity to serve my community.I work with a variety of clients from ages 5-65 both in person and via telehealth; depending on client preference. I provide individual, couples and family therapy. I like to be very client centered in my approach; and combine techniques to meet you where you are, and work with you in a way that works for you. I tailor my approach specifically for you and your specific goals for our work together. What is important for you at the current moment, is where we will start :) In addition to a client centered approach, I also like to look at the entire person, and their lifestyle to take a more holistic approach to healing. I often combine ancient/traditional practices with modern psychotherapy for those clients who are open to it. Our bodies, minds and spirits are all connected - so it can be helpful to focus on all areas to create healing on all levels and help create the best quality of life possible for each unique individual.

I am a dedicated and empathetic Hispanic therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find their inner strength. I have been in the mental health field for close to 7 years, with vast experience and training in addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, and bipolar disorder. I continue to expand my academic journey by completing a doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I'm here to support you on your journey towards mental well-being.

I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the States of Florida and Rhode Island. My experience includes working with individuals with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and end of life. I have worked with Clients in a variety of settings such as homes, schools, clinics and agencies. I utilize multiple modalities including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness. I enjoy working with diverse populations, and providing client-centered therapeutic services.

I have over 25 years of experience working with clients to address concerns stemming from anxiety, depression, grief, family and relationship issues, career changes, and other various stage-of-life concerns. My clinical area of focus involves Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Stress Management. Through discussion and exploration with you, we will develop a working plan to address your needs and goals.

Hello, my name is Kerry Whiteley and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) licensed and based in Florida. I received my master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University in 2021 and have 3 years of clinical experience. I have training and experience in somatic & mindfulness-based CBT and am an EMDR certified therapist working with individuals.

Greetings! I have worked in this field in various capacities: currently I am working with individuals, couples and families who experienced and are experiencing the following issues such as depression, anxiety, fear/phobia including social, family and other relational issues, low self esteem, grief, stress management, conflict management or poor communication, and some others in varying degrees for over 12 years. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, and compassionate Therapist, then you should look no further. I am the one you are looking for. Hi! Pleasure meeting you. I provide an emotionally and overall, therapeutically safe environment while you are in your healing journey. I use varying therapeutic approaches, and/or models that can be tailored individually. I also encourage good rapport building because in this process, the relationship of a client and his/her therapist is vital to the success of this helping process. I will meet you wherever you are because this is about you, only you.

Se ofrece Psicoterapia en Español! You are feeling worried or depressed, or just tired of the everyday routine and desiring more in life? Or do you worry about your son or daughter’s anxiety, depression, pessimism, or their behaviors out of control? Or as a parent do you feel lost, exhausted, or alone? As humans big or small, we all go through challenging times, we all experience sadness, worry, and stress. However, there are times that we might feel too stuck, too lost, and too overwhelmed to do anything. Life doesn’t have to stay this way. I can help you turn things around and move toward living your absolute best life ever! I offer therapy to help children, teens, & adults who are going through depression, anxiety, personal growth/self-esteem issues, life transitions, ADHD, and parental struggles. I will provide insight, strategies, tools, and empowerment to help you or your loved one transform. I'm caring, genuine, and yet direct which facilitates change and growth. Whether you or your loved one is facing an emotional, social, or behavioral challenge, I am here to help. I want to support your capacity to “respond”, rather than “react”. It is time to transform suffering into opportunities for growth. Let’s bring health & harmony back into your life and home!

I am Magaly Gomez, a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an online practice in Weston, Florida. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, using a blend of traditional talk therapy and mindfulness techniques. My holistic approach emphasizes the mind-body connection, fostering self-acceptance and personal growth. I welcome clients aged 9 to 80 for individual and family counseling. Click the link below to schedule an appointment.

I offer a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. Whether you’re navigating loss, transitions, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, our work together can help you explore meaning, clarify purpose, and move toward a more authentic and grounded sense of well-being. I approach therapy with curiosity, warmth, and respect, believing it can be a space not only for healing, but also for reclaiming parts of yourself and imagining new possibilities.

I am originally from New York but have lived in Florida the majority of my life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree from University of Central Florida. My 24 years of human services and social work experience includes working with grief and loss, terminal illness, children and their families, case management and mental health counseling. I use an approach that is genuine and supportive and encourages authenticity.

Hello! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist based in Florida with a master’s degree from Liberty University. With 11 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults navigate and improve their relationships—whether with spouses, significant others, children, parents, siblings, peers, or friends. My goal is to provide support and guidance to individuals and families facing relational challenges, fostering healthier connections and communication patterns.

Hello! You've taken the first step on your journey to a better you. Life can be challenging at times with various stressors, and it's my belief that everyone needs their voice to be heard and emotions validated in an unbiased space. I believe that every individual has the ability for change, regardless of what they have been through. It takes a great deal of courage to take the step forward and seek support and guidance to strengthen your mental and emotional health. I am here to provide you with that safe non-judgmental space needed to express yourself and build on positive change. Let's work together to build a stronger foundation for you.

Hi! I’m Lauren. I’ve been helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges for over 20 years. My background includes supporting both children and adults, in residential and outpatient settings. I utilize a combination of modalities while always tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. I believe therapy should feel collaborative, compassionate, and centered around what matters most to you. I’m also deeply passionate about raising awareness for suicide prevention and creating safe spaces where people feel heard and supported.

I am licensed in Florida, California and Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have experience working with adults and geriatrics.

Hello and Welcome! Are you feeling overwhelmed or in need of someone to talk to? I provide a warm, compassionate, and respectful approach to counseling in a safe and supportive environment. I aim to help you feel heard, valued, and empowered as we navigate the challenges you're facing—whether it's anxiety, depression, or anything else that's on your mind. It would be my honor to walk alongside you, build a trusting relationship, and support you in finding clarity, strength, and solutions.

After graduating with my Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, I was provided the opportunity to gain my experience at Nicklaus Childrens Hospital. I worked with a variety of age groups that exposed me to facilitate individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy and interventions. I also have over a decade of experience working in the fitness and wellness industry, which has influenced my therapy style, as I believe a healthy body leads to a healthy mind; therefore, activity and movement are highly encouraged and praised when working with me. I became a therapist mostly due to my interest in individuals and the recognition that everyone has their own story to tell. I believe each person is unique in their own way and we all have experiences that shape us into who we are today. I am an outgoing and nonjudgmental individual, which allowed me to make many positive relationships with a variety of different people growing up.