Book 100+ of the best therapists in Michigan

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have served a variety of populations with a passion for supporting law enforcement, first responders, military, medical professionals and their families. I have over 20 years of experience in service to adults and adolescents to improve their quality of life. The last 11 years were focused in supporting law enforcement, corrections, and other first responders.

Hello. First and foremost, I want to commend you on taking the first step towards self-care when it comes to mental health. There can be tons of emotions involved when starting therapy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving the state of Texas and Michigan. I received my Masters from Michigan State University. I have over 10 years of experience and I enjoy helping those individuals who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, and past traumas (to name a few) find some balance and provide some tools to find some balance in your life.

I am a licensed clinical therapist. My ideal client is someone who desires to heal and move forward with their lives. This person is willing to do the work necessary to get the results they desire. My ideal client is respectful of my time just as I would be respectful of their time; thus, my ideal client attends all scheduled sessions or cancels at least 24-48 hours in advance.

My name is Bridget Bittner and I have been practicing social work for eleven years, and worked with clients from all walks of life. I feel grateful to all my clients who allow me into their lives to help work through problems they are facing. We will work together to find coping skills and solutions to work through any issue you may be facing. I have a calm demeanor and the utmost resect for all I work with.

Hi, I'm Gabrielle. I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LMSW-C) and the owner of Whispering Willows Counseling. I earned my master's degree in social work (MSW) from Fordham University. I have been in the social work field for 11 years working with vulnerable populations particularly geriatrics, veterans, and incarcerated individuals. I grew up in Western New York, but now call Southwest Michigan my home. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you.

Well hello, my name is Madeline. Welcome to my safe and inviting space to work on bringing peace into your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker in Michigan. I strive to provide compassionate care to those with ranging needs in the overwhelming and discouraging seasons of life. For 7 years I have supported children, adolescents, adults and older adults with individual and family needs in the school, home and community setting. I encourage you to focus on critical needs that impact the problem behaviors in your daily life that keep you from living your best life. I welcome you to utilize a holistic approach designed to nurture your specific needs.

Hi, I'm Conner! I'm a social worker and I've been practicing counseling for four years. The bulk of my professional career has been in treating substance abuse issues. However, I think the foundations of that treatment can apply to just about anyone. If you're finding yourself stuck in the same cycle over and over again, I believe I can help you break out of it. Whether it be anxious tendencies, addictive behaviors, or relationship conflicts, I've found an ability to help people recognize negative patterns and take steps to find a new path forward when they're ready. During therapy sessions I've often helped clients process the pains that came before and after addiction, along with envisioning the future they hope to find in sobriety. Addiction aside, my goal is to help people reveal and release their emotional burdens so they can work toward the life they really want.

Phipps is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Limited Licensed Psychologist (LLP), and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drugs Counselor (CAADC) with a specialty in trauma therapy who is dedicated to working with children and families. She has provided comprehensive therapeutic services to some of the most vulnerable youth in Wayne and Oakland counties and has served in various leadership positions. Phipps is a recipient of the 2023 Michigan Chronicle 40 under 40 Award. Phipps is also a Licensed Minister since 2008 and has engaged in various ministries over the years.

"Carrie is helping me to think positively and remove my negative self-talk. She helps me recognize where I might be holding myself back and teaches me ways to challenge my self-imposed limitations." I focus on supporting working professionals and college students who are struggling in their careers, education, or relationships due to anxiety or depression. Many feel burnt out, irritable, overwhelmed, and stuck. Chronic stress and rumination make it hard for them to connect with their co-workers, boss, friends, and family. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas and Michigan specializing in workplace mental health. I help clients struggling with burnout, anxiety, and depression bring their best selves to work. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) with over 20 years working in career counseling, education, and mental health. Follow me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-may

I'm so glad you're here! I know it takes a great amount of courage to even begin looking for help. You may be wondering if anyone will understand you and what you are going through or if there is even any hope! Well there is, and I am here to help you! Hi! I'm Brenda. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with a background in yoga and wellness. I offer an on-line therapy office serving folks in Kentucky, New Jersey, and Michigan. Consider me your trusted guide on your path to mental and emotional well-being. You'll notice I have a down to earth nature, and strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, supportive space to unpack the early whispers of unease and the thunderstorm of overwhelming emotions.

I am an empathetic, compassionate and highly sensitive LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) dedicated to providing client-centered support to individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. My approach focuses on creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. Through evidence-based techniques and genuine care, I help clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve their personal goals.

Hello, and welcome. Together, let’s take a journey toward healing—one step at a time. You have taken the first step, don't stop now. This is a space for growth, understanding, and transformation. You are not alone, and together with guidance, support, and the right tools, we can navigate challenges and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life one day at a time.

I am a licensed professional counselor with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with experience working on a multitude of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting, and couples counseling. I believe in creating a strong, trusting therapeutic environment where people feel comfortable, motivated, and not judged. I use solution-focused techniques to assist in reaching goals and CBT techniques to help with concerns such as negative thought patterns. Every person is different, and you will have your own individualized therapy and plan that is tailored to your needs. I really enjoy helping others explore their own strengths, and I understand that sometimes it can be hard to put things into perspective. Sometimes that outside, non-judgmental assistance is what someone needs to get back on track or on a better track.

It has been my privilege to partner with many people over the last 30 years to help them make positive changes in their lives. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Minnesota and Michigan. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals and that we all have times in our lives when we need to join with others to make course corrections, learn new skills, and work toward a better quality of life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Detroit Michigan. I received my master's from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 10 years. I help young adults and veterans who struggle with Depression, PTSD and anxiety. I also work with clients who struggling with substance abuse and other mental health disorders become the best versions of themselves.

My name is Solimar Mattei, I am a clinician with over 25 years of experience treating various mental health issues such as depression, trauma, anxiety, grief and recovery from abuse. I primarily work with adults and am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have evidence based training in prolonged exposure, emdr, CBT-D and IPT-D for depression. I know how difficult and humbling it can be to reach out for help, therefore I take my responsibility as your therapist very seriously. I view therapy as a partnership where goals are developed and treatment has a focus that will lead you to live your best life. I will teach you skills needed to take back control of your life. You deserve to be at peace, joyful and productive. Together we can accomplish your therapy goals.

Hello! Congratulations on taking your first steps to bettering your mental health. My name is Cassandra (Cassie). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Michigan) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL) who has worked with a wide range of clients from young children to adults and families. I believe that each individual is unique and special; therefore, I prefer an eclectic and collaborative approach to counseling; developing the treatment plan to reflect your unique needs. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Attachment Therapy and aspects of Theraplay. I often utilize strengths-based and person-centered methods.

I have 31 years of social work and clinical experience, specializing in assisting diverse clients with issues such as stress, depression, relational challenges, anxiety, and life transitions. My approach is person-centered, aimed at meeting the unique needs of each individual. In addition to my clinical work, I am a life coach who finds fulfillment in helping clients navigate their challenges and achieve life balance.

I serve the entire state of Michigan, via video therapy. Hello! I'm a licensed mental health therapist. I received my Masters from Eastern Michigan University in 2004 and have been practicing since then. Prior to that, I worked as a social worker since 1995. I very much love what I do, helping people learn how to help themselves. I have a rich experience across the board, working in homes, community settings, hospital settings, office and on the streets with the homeless. I am skilled in treating a wide variety of mental health and substance abuse issues.

Hello, My name is Jennifer Bardon, I am a LCSW. I have been in the field for 5 years. I have predominately work in my full time position working with children, young adults, and adults with Developmental disabilities. I went to school for CBT. I am DBT certified. I am able to work with a diverse population. I am able to work with those who have depression and anxiety. I am very person centered, and I encourage my clients to drive there own treatment, as they are the experts in their lives. I am dedicated to provide the best services to my future clients. I do offer weekend availability, and evening appointment on Monday and Tuesday for clients who have busy work weeks.

The great poet Rumi wrote "out beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing, there is a field. I'll meet you there." That field is a space where calm, love and forgiveness exist. There is no judgement, only acceptance here. And in that soul space you are free to find those fragments of you that are lost, and begin to piece them back together. ​ I'm licensed in both Florida and Michigan. As a licensed clinical therapist and licensed substance abuse counselor, I have experience running very powerful substance abuse and co-occurring groups. Prior to that, I worked as a social worker in Flint, Michigan for many years as a therapist, caseworker and in crisis intervention. My experiences have given me such a rich experience and exposure to the many factors that contribute to our personal mental health and well-being. I've been fortunate to work with people in their homes, in the community, with their families as well as the private practice setting which have given me a much richer experience than just an of an office setting alone.

I am a passionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal goals. Completing my master's degree in social work in 2021, I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a focus on anxiety, stress management, and self-esteem. Known for being approachable, with a non-judgmental style, I work collaboratively with clients to create a safe and supportive environment for growth. I am committed to helping clients build resilience, embrace change, and lead more fulfilling lives. When not in the office, I enjoy camping, hiking, crocheting and spending time with my dogs, and am continuously seeking professional development opportunities to further enhance my skills.

I believe that everyone strives to do the best they can, but sometimes you just don't have the tools or motivation to get to where you want to be. I’m glad that you’re brave enough to take the first step! I’m here to help clients discover and use their strengths to navigate through life’s challenges. My goal is to provide a confidential environment where clients can process current life circumstances, explore new coping skills and meet their goals.

Have you ever felt particularly stuck in your life or overwhelmed by your circumstances? I excel in assisting individuals in overcoming various obstacles that may hinder their personal growth and overall well-being. Together, we can facilitate a meaningful journey of self-discovery and mindfulness, empowering you to live with intention and authenticity. This process promotes a deeper self-awareness, allowing you to truly embrace the present moment rather than being consumed by past experiences or future worries.

Hello! My name is Mrs. Frances Greebon, I’m a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended Michigan State University where I received my Masters in Clinical Social Work. I specialize in Domestic Violence, Trauma and PTSD, Relationship difficulties, Anxiety and Depression. I am a Christian Therapist delivering Evidence-Based Psychotherapy backed by Neuroscience with an ultimate healing approach. I am a perfect match for clients who wish to have such a blend. My passion is fueled by my Faith in Jesus Christ and the incredible desire to help others break through what has been holding them back. In life, I have dealt with my own childhood traumas, toxic adult relationships, and uncomfortable experiences in life. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, saved me through the Holy Spirit, and God has delivered me to a place of healing. I am an overcomer & a warrior. As a warrior, I have dedicated my career to caring for those with broken hearts and spirits. Guiding individuals to reclaim healing & wholeness which is their birth right. I enjoy helping individuals obtain their freedom from oppression, depression, confusion, despair, fear, trauma, and the lack of not foresight on how to live life. My goal is to equip the unequipped with the tools to function abundantly. I plan to help you get out of the cycle life has you in, help you strengthen your internal compass, reflect & identify areas of entrapment, while setting appropriate boundaries so that you gain power & control over your life.

I help adults who are exhausted by anxiety move from feeling stuck to truly in control and I understand deeply, because I’ve walked that painful path myself. Combining my clinical expertise with hard-won personal experience, I don’t just offer theories. I give you practical tools that work in real life. Together, we’ll take those awful, gut-wrenching feelings and break them into solvable pieces, using proven techniques (think of them like a mental toolkit) so you can track your progress as it happens. This isn’t about endless talk therapy; it’s about teaching you how to calm your body, quiet the racing thoughts that fuel anxiety, and finally stop being afraid so you can live freely again.

As a bilingual (spanish) licensed clinician aiming for an interactive, engaging and fun experience rather than that of formal therapy. Challenging growth, practical exercises and cultivating habits that will contribute to healthy relationships with self and others. Learning to effectively communicate and resolve disagreements in a healthy, loving way. Providing tailored, compassionate care, which is key to helping clients achieve positive mental health outcomes.

Thank you for taking steps toward improving your well-being! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Clinical Child and Family Psychology, Crisis Management, and Christian Counseling, I bring over 20 years of experience helping adults, teens, and families cope with anxiety, depression, caregiver stress, and life transitions such as death, divorce, and job loss. My goal is to foster a brave space where all thoughts and feelings are valued, allowing clients to embrace vulnerability. Together, we will work on creating meaningful personal goals to support your overall well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your healing journey.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Michigan, with over 15 years of counseling experience, including the last 5 years in this state. I hold a Master’s Degree and specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and couples, helping them improve understanding, build healthier communication patterns, and navigate challenges. My goal is to partner with those seeking support, providing a safe and supportive space to explore emotions and discover new ways forward.

Welcome! I'm Zena Jones Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

With the right match, psychotherapy is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. I'm a licensed clinical social worker and see people remotely in New York and Michigan. My approach is warm, genuine, and affirming. It's my job to listen and understand how your background, circumstances, relationships, and overlapping social identities have shaped your experience. Rather than telling you what I think you should do, I'll help you navigate what you're dealing with so you can heal and move forward. I have a master’s degree with a law minor from Columbia University and a bachelor's in psychology from the University of Michigan; I've practiced social work for 20+ years. I’ve devoted much of my career to social justice and have worked with, and on behalf of kids and adults of all ages in the areas of mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice, education, LGBTQIA+ rights, and homeless services. After some soul searching and shifting of my "why," I've returned to clinical practice and love meeting and working with people from all walks of life.

I'm a therapist who understands that everyone's mind works differently. I pride myself on being kind but I'm also very real. I love to laugh and am curious about just about everything in life. I enjoy living in the moment and I am definitely an animal person. I spent 25 years teaching horseback riding lessons, so I understand the equestrian lifestyle. I rescue not only mammals but bugs and bees too. I'm an elder goth and have a passion for listening to music. I am always rooting for the underdog. I am adept at working with: Pet Loss/Grief People Loss/Grief Native American Populations Menopause Neurodiversity Introvert Issues Empaths Self Confidence and Confidence Caregiver Issues Isolation and Loneliness Life Changes and Life Purpose Depression Anxiety Stress Winter Blues Chronic Health Issues

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Art therapist (ATR). I received my masters degree from Wayne State University in Detroit in 2014. Before becoming a therapist a little later in life (I graduated at 38), I taught yoga for many years. I also teach mindfulness meditation and find that those skills are incredibly useful in therapy. I help people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and the aftermath of trauma. I have worked with college students and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and child sexual abuse for the past 11 years.

Meet Nicole Tholmer, LPC, a compassionate licensed professional counselor who specializes in helping adults navigate and heal from childhood trauma and adversity. With a deep understanding of the lasting impact early experiences can have, Nicole employs a tailored approach, leveraging cognitive behavioral techniques to empower her clients. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment, working collaboratively with each individual to unlock their potential for growth and healing. Nicole is committed to guiding her clients through their unique journeys, helping them transform past challenges into stepping stones for resilience, well-being, and fulfillment.

Hello all, Thanks for visiting my profile page. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Michigan with 27 years of experience working with diverse populations in various settings community and educational settings. My approach is person-centered, aimed at meeting the unique needs of each individual. I believe that by utilizing a collaborative approach, together, we can forge to greater paths.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges. My expertise lies in guiding clients through various obstacles, fostering those pivotal ‘a-ha’ moments when they prove most beneficial. I believe in creating a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their feelings, gain insights, and develop coping strategies. Together, we work towards positive change and personal growth.

Step into a transformative space, where healing isn't just a concept but a tangible journey. If you find yourself grappling with anxiety, wrestling with depression, or feeling lost amid life's complexities, know that support is within reach. Beyond mere survival, you yearn for lasting change, and that's where I come in – as your dedicated partner on a journey toward genuine self-discovery and profound healing. I work with a diverse set of individuals treating various mental health concerns such as anxiety and its related disorders; depression and mood-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, life transitions, and other mental health related issues. In counseling, I tailor my approach to honor each person's unique experiences. With unwavering empathy and support, I assist clients in setting realistic goals and guide them toward achievement. Reach out to explore how we can collaborate on your journey.

As a therapist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey toward healing and self-discovery. I strive to build a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. With a client-centered approach, I draw from evidence-based practices like CBT, motivational interviewing, and attachment theory to tailor treatment to each individual's unique needs. My ultimate goal is to help clients build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and foster meaningful change in their lives.

As a duly licensed Clinical Social Worker, holding credentials in both Michigan (LMSW) and Indiana (LCSW), I bring to the table a wealth of experience and expertise in providing comprehensive support to individuals navigating through a myriad of life's challenges. Over the course of my career, I have dedicated myself to aiding individuals from various backgrounds in overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth. My professional background is deeply rooted in aiding individuals facing a diverse range of challenges, encompassing but not limited to issues such as anxiety, depression, coping strategies, addiction, and addressing women's specific concerns, among a multitude of others. Through tailored interventions and compassionate care, I strive to empower individuals to navigate life's complexities with resilience and hope, fostering holistic well-being and lasting positive change.

I’m a trauma therapist with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their healing journey. Specializing in Brainspotting and trauma-informed care, I work with clients navigating the effects of childhood trauma, family conflict, and sexual abuse. My approach is grounded, intuitive, and empathetic, combining both emotional support and practical tools to help you move toward healing and growth. I believe that every person’s experience is unique, and I take great care in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel fully seen and heard. Through the use of Brainspotting, I help you access the deeper parts of the brain and body to release emotional pain and shift old patterns that may be holding you back. Whether you’re healing from past trauma or working through current challenges, my goal is to guide you with patience and understanding, allowing you to process at your own pace. Together, we’ll unlock your potential, heal old wounds, and empower you to move forward with clarity, confidence, and a deeper sense of self.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Michigan since 2015. I am also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I help adults of all ages manage life transitions, mood disorders, concerns about substance use and being late-diagnosed neurodivergent. I support all pathways to recovery and incorporate a harm-reduction approach when appropriate. I am ND and LGBTQIA- affirming.

Hi! My name is Jessica Mayfield-Ashwood, a clinically licensed social worker with 6 years of practice in the mental health field. I received my MSW degree from The University of Michigan and am a proud native of Detroit, Mi. I service children as young as 9yrs old and adults of all ages utilizing a variety of specialties tailored to the needs of my client.

Born and raised in the south, I received my undergraduate degree from The University of Alabama and my MA in counseling from Thomas University. Here I took part in research on various mental health issues that included eating disorders, severe depression, Borderline Personality disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and family conflict/abuse. I enjoy a person-centered treatment approach using evidence-based psychotherapy/CBT tools to tap into your unique and inherent skills. The goal is to resolve internal and external conflict to affect true and lasting change. You and I can collaboratively work together to understand and reach your individual needs.

Life threw me a curveball when I underwent open-heart surgery—but I hit it out of the park with resilience, self-care, and a passion for helping others do the same. With 20 years of experience as a social worker, including supporting children and families in a school setting, I understand the ups and downs of life and the power of healthy coping strategies. In my past role, I worked closely with families, helping them manage, cope, and recover from trauma. Through this experience, I developed a deep understanding of the challenges families face and guided them with empathy and practical support. Whether you're navigating the emotional rollercoaster of life and work or recovering from a difficult chapter, I’m here to help you regain your balance, one step at a time. Let’s work together to make your comeback even stronger.

Hello! I am a Licensed Masters Level Social Worker practicing in the State of Michigan for 26 years. I received my bachelor's and master's degrees in social work from Michigan State University. My practice has centered around supporting parents, children and individuals that have struggle with depression, anxiety, and anger management challenges develop effective strategies that enable them to enjoy more out of life and find hope.

Hello there, my name is Michelle Fitzhugh. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, here to serve young your mental health needs. I am committed to creating a safe space, while meeting my clients right where they are. I strive to help clients feel empowered by remaining them of the strength they already possess within. Whatever weight you are carrying, I am here to support and encourage you. I utilize a variety of techniques, including (but not limited to), Mindfulness Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, CBT, increasing self-worth, empowerment, self-esteem, and work/life balance. My expertise are in the areas of anxiety, depression, coping, adjustment disorders, trauma, life stressors, postpartum, and self discovery. As I for a collaborative relationship with my clients, my goal is to provide a listening ear, guidance, and new strategies that will help you heal and achieve your ultimate mental health dreams/goals. You are not alone, let's unpack some of life's difficulties together.

I am a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience. I have an undertanding of psychological disorders and the impact they can have on the individual's, families and communities. My unique perspective comes from experiences on a personal level with addiction and recovery. Drawing from evidenced based therapeutic approaches, I tailor my interventions to suit the individual needs of my clients.

"As a highly experienced Licensed Professional Counselor with 27 years in the mental health field, I aim to empower individuals to find inner strength and confidence and to believe in themselves again. I work with clients through a solution-focused and CBT approach to identify and develop the skills needed to resolve their unique challenges and situations. I help clients to embrace their truth and live in the present, encouraging them to take responsibility for their actions while also reminding them that it is ok not to be perfect. I have a breadth of experience working with youth and adults struggling with various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grief. In addition, I have specialized expertise in working with caregivers, primarily women, to help them overcome guilt, isolation, and overwhelming stress. My ultimate goal is to provide clients with the tools and resources to change their circumstances and improve their mental health well-being. " I believe everyone has the ability to overcome life's challenges and deserve to live a happy and healthy life."

My experience spans work with individuals of diverse genders, identities, and cultural backgrounds, as well as those from low-income communities. In my current position I work with families of children and young adults on the spectrum, clients with severe depression and anxiety, and schizophrenia. I strive to meet each client with openness, respect, and an understanding of their unique journey.

Hello! I am a fully licensed social worker (LCSW) from Michigan. I received my bachelor's and Master's degree from Wayne State University. I help individuals develop coping skills during major life changes and challenges. I understand that life, particularly during major life changes, can bring many challenges. My goal is to provide a supportive space where individuals can develop positive coping strategies, enhance their emotional well-being, and navigate difficult times with confidence. I strive to foster an atmosphere of trust and compassion, helping individuals grow and overcome obstacles in a way that aligns with their unique needs and experiences