Therapists in Minnesota

Congratulations on taking this important step toward prioritizing your mental well-being! My name is Melissa Billings, and I am fully and independently licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Florida, Minnesota, Utah, Washington State, and Wisconsin. I am here to support you using evidence-based approaches, including Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, among others. I provide a safe, affirming space where everyone is welcome, including individuals of all ethnicities, biological sexes, sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.

Hello, my name is Matthew Cruz, but many people call me Matt. I enjoy talking with people about their problems, offering them support, and helping them to find a way forward. My background is in treating substance use and Eating Disorders. As such, I am familiar with a variety of treatment approaches, including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. However, I am looking for what approach works for each individual and am not attached to any one mode of treatment. I enjoy helping people explore meaning and symbolism in their world through a person centered approach to treatment. For those that are interested, I am comfortable incorporating faith and spiritual practice into the treatment experience. Feel free to reach out to me with further questions!

Hi, I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Mid Minnesota. With eight years of experience, I enjoy supporting those in need through life’s transitions and challenges in a kind, respectful, and down-to-earth way. If you're feeling stuck or burn out my approach is all about building a genuine connection and helping you tap into your own strengths and resilience towards healing.

Welcome! My name is Laura and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota. I completed my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of St. Thomas and have been practicing for about 6 years. I currently work with primarily adolescents and young adults. I’ve worked with clients and families from all different cultural backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Meeting clients where they are at is a crucial part of therapeutic work and I do this by using a culturally responsive, client-centered, and trauma-focused approach with each individual. We will move at a pace that feels right for you to build trust and understanding.

Hello there! My name is Erin and I am a dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social worker with a passion for fostering embraced engagement and embodying self-authenticity. I bring an integrative and holistic approach to my work and lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness within one’s whole self. Identifying as a woman of color and a person of the BIPOC community, I am aware, empathic, and equipped with a deep understanding of unique humanness, diversity, the necessity for equity, and cultural competence within the therapeutic setting. I am an unwavering believer that everyone has the innate power to heal and build themselves. I achieve this by utilizing Integrative and Humanistic therapy approaches and modalities, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Brainspotting, meditation, mindfulness, and attunement to what fills someone's cup, allowing them to pour into themselves and the world around them. My daily vocation is to make a meaningful impact and walk alongside folx in their life adventure; taking time to connect their dreams and goals with their individual passions, values, and joys.

Hi, I’m Jennifer. Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Have you been trying your best to navigate challenges that feel like too much? You’re not alone. You deserve support, and you can heal and find relief. You may be going through a life transition, have become more aware of past or present traumas impacting you now, or have faced a recent difficult experience, and are ready to begin your healing journey. I help empower individuals to overcome past adverse and traumatic experiences to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Taking the first step toward healing can feel overwhelming. You've come so far just by looking for support, and I want to meet you with warmth and understanding right where you are. My name is Jennifer Franck, and for over 25 years, I've had the privilege of helping people navigate life's toughest challenges. My experience as a social worker has taught me that we all have an inner "toolbox" of coping skills. Together, we'll explore yours, adding new tools, fine-tuning the ones that work, and letting go of what no longer serves you. I specialize in working with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and self-confidence issues. My background also includes supporting those facing life-limiting illnesses, navigating aging and disabilities, and managing caregiving roles. In our work, I promise to create a space where you can share your story without judgment. My goal is to listen deeply and provide you with support as you move toward your goals. I use several evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing, to help you gain insight into the thoughts and behaviors that might be holding you back. I commend you for taking this courageous step toward healing and growth. I’m here to be a partner in your journey, and I look forward to walking alongside you.

Hello, my name is Angie, and I would be honored to hear your story and experiences. As a social worker, I have a strong ability to connect with people and quickly build rapport. I have been working in the field for 11 years and have been a LICSW since 2021. I believe it's important to engage actively in therapy and put in the necessary effort to make changes that will help you reach your goals. I often use humor and seem to have the ability to make people feel like they are talking to a friend...albeit a friend that is very honest, sometimes sarcastic, can challenge you, accept you, fight for you, and sometimes make you mad. Thankfully, it's all part of the process of making sustainable changes! I attended training to work specifically with law enforcement, veterans, and other first responders. I was an embedded social worker in a MN police department for 3 years. I utilize different therapeutic modalities depending on your individual needs. Some examples include: Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I pride myself in delivering non-judgmental, empathetic, individualized services to ensure the therapy experience is created for you.

Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for residents of Florida and Minnesota. I received my Masters degree in Tampa, Florida and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults get from point A to B by asking Solution Focused questions. People have a lot more potential then they believe. My job as your Therapist is to ask you the questions that will make you think about your past accomplishments, skills/strengths, resources and experience and see if someway, somehow those 'solutions' can help you move forward in a more positive, productive way today.

Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Minnesota, Wisconsin and New York and have years of experience working with older children, teens, and adults of all ages. I am also a part of PsyPact, a telehealth compact where I can see clients in over 42+ states! I am a veteran of the US Air Force and completed my undergraduate education while stationed in England. I graduated from the UMUC, Europe with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Business Administration and hold a Master’s and Doctorate degree in Clinical Child Psychology from the Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology in Milwaukee, WI. I completed my pre-doctoral internship in infant and child psychology at the Institute for Infant and Preschool Mental Health in East Orange, NJ and completed her post-doctoral fellowship in Mother-infant/child/adolescent psychology at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital, in NYC. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, hospitals, group homes, in-home, and now online! I have experience providing treatment for all types of difficulties but am primarily focused on providing services for prenatal and postpartum mental health needs. I enjoy helping women to find purpose in life, adjust to challenges of motherhood, and live to their fullest potential.

Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I am passionate about helping people. I help to build empowerment in day-to-day life along with life changes. I want to help others find their path to live a fruitful and enjoyable life. I have experience working with trauma, addictions, anxiety, and depression. I work to create a nonjudgmental environment where you can express your emotions and experiences. I enjoy providing therapy and helping others to change their lives. If you have any questions please ask and let's see if we are a good match!!

Hi there, I'm Farah Ali. I am a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and dedicated advocate for my clients. My educational foundation is based in psychology and social justice, having earned my master's degree in social work with a dual concentration in community practice and clinical mental health. Driven by a strong commitment to human rights and social justice, I am dedicated to advocating for every individual I work with and the communities I am part of. My Core Principles as a Therapist: Focusing on Strengths & Empowerment: Central to our work is helping you to more deeply connect to—and really use—your inherent strengths. This means looking for growth opportunities where some might find roadblocks and accessing both internal and external resources to help you make the changes you want to see in your life. Working for Comprehensive Wellness: Therapy is a place where we can work toward mental and emotional wellness, learn how to foster positive relationships, and discover a greater sense of balance and ease in your day-to-day life. Promoting Connection & Authenticity: The relationship we have is vital, which is why I work hard to make sure our relationship is a nurturing space for meaningful growth. Creating Safety in Being Seen: I strive to make our sessions a place where every emotion is valued, encouraged, and supported—yes, even the “bad” or “undesirable” emotions. This is the space we cultivate together in our work, and space that is here to help you more deeply see yourself, and be seen in your authenticity.

Welcome! I am Logan. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with over 10 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us yearn for a sense of peace, connection, and well-being in our lives. However, life circumstances and internal struggles can often hinder our ability to experience these deeply fulfilling states. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and emotional pain. My goal is to support your growth and healing journey, empowering you to cultivate greater self-awareness, develop effective coping mechanisms, and live a more fulfilling life. Outside of my practice, I enjoy spending time with my family (two teenagers and three dogs), practicing Pilates, and cheering on the Celtics. I am licensed in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Minnesota and Ohio.

Hello, my name is Allie Gubin, I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in supporting people navigating unforeseen and unwelcome change. Some of the common emotional experiences of the people whom I serve include coping with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, and loss. My background is with people impacted by cancer. I have worked on the east and west coasts in hospitals and outpatient clinical settings. A life-threatening illness can impact overall quality of life including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. My area of interest is to support people who are facing various life transitions and stressors – whether it be a conflict in a relationship, a concern at work, or worries about the future. It is completely “normal” not to know exactly what it is that brings you to therapy, to know what it is that you are feeling, or what, if anything, you would like to be different in your life. With an open mind and some patience, together, we can explore what matters most to you, and what might promote a sense of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin and LPCC in Minnesota with over 9 years of experience supporting clients towards greater emotional well-being. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges, including relationship difficulties, the joys and struggles of motherhood, the transition to parenthood, anxiety, and grief. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, focusing on creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions, develop coping skills, and find healing on your journey of personal growth.

Whatever obstacles and struggles someone may be going through in life, I consider it a privilege to help them cope. I understand that the clients I see are entrusting me to give them the right resources to guide them down a new path, with a new perspective, so they can achieve their own goals. With a healthy balance of listening, guiding, and even learning, I take pride in using my own experience and resources to help people really start off on the right foot on that path. Whether you, or someone you know struggles with something like anxiety, or simply wants a different outlook on their life, it’s something to work through together, and by setting up a consultation, we can get started.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counsellor (LPCC) based in Minnesota. I received my Masters Degree from North Dakota State University and have been practicing for 20 years. I work in collaboration with adults to work towards healing from past, present and future versions of themselves. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral therapy interventions such as CBT-I as well Eye Movement Desensitization reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure.

Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Minnesota is where I call home. Most of my 25 years of experience has been in a variety of therapeutic educational settings, primarily with teens and young adults. When we begin the therapy process, I thoroughly enjoy learning about the person who is in front of me. My style is to partner with you, together we can figure out what you feel is most important to focus on in therapy and if you are not sure what exactly that is, it's OK, we will figure it out together.

I earned my Masters in Social Work from the University of Minnesota had have been a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I have worked in a variety of settings with teenagers, young adults, women in mid-life, and women who are looking toward the future while living in an uncertain world; women who have had an unexpected disability; women who are looking toward a return to the workforce or a career change; adults looking to improve their relationships or their own quality of life; and those grieving the loss of partner, a child, a parent or other significant relationships. Grief and self-compassion are so important in these times.

Hello! I'm a LICSW with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. I earned my degree from the University of Minnesota. My approach is empathetic, non judgemental and solution focused. I have worked with people both long term and short term depending on needs. You know yourself best, my job is to help you make your life the best.

Navigating life between 11 and 25 can feel overwhelming. I specialize in supporting adolescents, teens, and young adults as they juggle school, family, identity, and the pressure to always be “the strong one.” My goal is to create a space where you don’t have to explain your background to be understood—a space that honors your story, culture, and values. I show up with empathy, honesty, and cultural understanding. I’m not here to “fix” you but to walk alongside you, helping you make sense of what you’re carrying and creating room for reflection, healing, and growth. Whether you’re managing anxiety, family stress, identity questions, or just trying to feel like yourself again, I provide therapy that’s real, relevant, and safe. ***Please note: Appointments after 3pm CST are reserved for clients ages 11–18.

I am an experienced Therapist with Specialty focus in the areas of: Relationships, Attachment, Self-esteem/Self-love and Trauma informed care. I use a Psychodynamic foundation combined with other treatment modalities such Emotionally focused, Cognitive behavioral, Attachment and Person focused techniques to help people dig deep into the root causes of their symptoms in order to create long lasting and sustainable healing. I have over 10 years of experience in Behavioral Health after graduating with honors from Wayne State University. Therapy does not have to be scary, it is a journey that we can take together, step by step, one day at a time. I applaud you for taking the first step towards your healing!

Hello! Life can throw us occasional curve balls or have us feeling a certain way for longer than we would hope. We will work together to explore your concerns and develop a concrete, tailored plan for treatment. I am excited to work together to get you feeling better! A little bit about me, I received my MSW at the University of North Dakota and I am a board certified, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have an extensive background with the treatment of many types of mental health diagnosis and have provided clinical services in a variety of settings including homes, clinics and hospital systems.

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

I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been licensed for a little over a year but have been practicing for 10 years under supervision working in private practices. I was an elementary school counselor for 3 years. My experience includes working with adolescents, teenagers and adults providing crisis, case management, group therapy, play therapy. I help individuals work through, life stressor, improve self esteem, coping skills, anxiety and depression and school concerns.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have been practicing in Minnesota for 18 years. My hope as a therapist is to build relationships and work collaboratively with individuals to address their specific goals. My intention is to bring an accepting, inviting and non-judgemental presence into each session, with encouragement in helping you navigate life’s challenges and assisting you in developing strategies and skills to make positive changes in your life. In addition to working as a therapist, I also have 25 years experience working as a school counselor.

Hi, I’m Micah (he/him), a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I provide affirming, trauma-informed care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, BIPOC communities, and others navigating identity, relationships, and life transitions. My approach is strength-based and humanistic—I believe you are the expert on your own experience, and I’m here to support you in uncovering what healing and growth look like for you. I’m not here to give you a one-size-fits-all answer or sell you a quick fix. Instead, I offer a grounded, collaborative space where we can explore patterns, values, and goals together. I know therapy can feel vulnerable, and I work to build trust through honesty, warmth, and a deep respect for the complexity of who you are. If you’re feeling stuck, curious, or ready for change, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Hello! My name is Rana and I have over a decade of working with children (ages 6+) and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life adjustments, ADHD, parent training, and trauma. I enjoy getting to know each client on an individual level. I aim to create a warm, compassionate, and safe space for healing. Some treatment approaches I offer are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.

I’m John Tzanos, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist passionate about helping people make meaningful changes in their lives. I offer a practical and straightforward approach to therapy, where you can feel comfortable being yourself. My goal is to create a space where we can talk openly about what’s going on in your life and work together to find solutions that fit you as an individual. I focus on helping clients develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while also providing tools and strategies that can be applied in daily life. I work well with people who are motivated to change and who enjoy learning new ways to view and approach the challenges they face. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to support you through the process of finding clarity and direction. In our sessions, I strive to create a genuine connection, offering both guidance and flexibility as we explore what’s most important to you. My approach is collaborative, I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward at your own pace. Therapy is a partnership, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s ups and downs in a way that aligns with your values and goals.

Hello, I'm Dr. Aja King, a Counseling Psychologist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor practicing in Minnesota. I view therapy as a collaborative journey with someone who comprehends life's complexities. Despite the challenges, I believe in the potential for recovery, inner peace, and clarity. With 23 years of experience in mental health, spanning various states including Alabama, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Minnesota, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including geriatrics, addiction, trauma/crisis, families, and those affected by domestic violence.

Hello, Hola! I am Elisa Sarmento, MA, LADC, LPCC, based out of Bloomington, MN, fully licensed and working through telehealth in both Minnesota and Florida, practicing for over 15 years. I provide both bilingual (Spanish/English) psychotherapy, life coaching services and am particularly passionate about working with the specific challenges faced by individuals (teens and adults) living in fear and addiction.

I am a trauma informed care practitioner with 16 years of experience in supporting people through a healing journey with EMDR, IFS, Somatic Experiencing and Jungian Dream Analysis. We enter your story with compassion. I am passionate about providing gentle and considerate care. My office is located on a bus line within an ADA accessible building and off-street parking. Virtual sessions are offered. My space is designed for comfort and safety in downtown Duluth, Minnesota.

You took the hardest step today; your healing journey can begin. The space I hold for you is individualized to acknowledge you, support you, and encourage you to be your greatest advocate and to help you figure out what you need. My style is open and educative. I work to help you become independent in your healing journey. I am versatile in the range of clients that I take ( age and lifestyle, or issue). Persons with pelvic pain disorders please feel free to consult with me ( pain with sex, Pudendal Neuralgia, Vulvodynia, resistance/anxiety towards pelvic physical therapy exercises). I have sex therapy training specifically in this area.

My clients often long for deeper peace, stronger boundaries, and more authentic relationships—but they may not know where to start. Many are navigating life transitions, past trauma, or complex emotions that leave them feeling isolated or exhausted. They want to feel more grounded, aligned, and confident in who they are and how they move through the world. That’s where I come in. I help by creating a compassionate, empowering space for you to slow down, tune in, & heal. Together, we explore what’s getting in the way of the life you want to live. My work is rooted in modalities like ACT, CBT, IFS, Brainspotting, & mindfulness. In our first few sessions, you can expect to feel heard, supported, and not rushed.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online therapy via telehealth. I received my Master’s degree and have been practicing for 13 years, specializing in DBT, ACT, and CFT, with an additional 5 years of experience using an eclectic approach. I help adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, polyamorous relationships, and infertility develop practical tools for emotional resilience, self-compassion, and healthier, more fulfilling lives. My goal is to support you in creating lasting change and finding balance in every area of your life

Welcome! I'm Violet Scheibel. First, please 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, trauma, grief and many more. I believe you are the expert in yourself and I there to assist in this process. I see therapy like you are driving the car and I am in the passenger seat riding copilot offering new tools, organizing the tools you already have and providing a different perspective. More than any modality of therapy the success therapy is dependent on how you, the client, feel in the relationship with your therapist. It is not something to tough out and I encourage you to work with someone you feel you connect with, can be open and honest with.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Minnesota and Missouri. I am licensed to diagnose and treat individuals struggling with mental health issues. My philosophy is that we all have the capacity to heal from within however sometimes our feelings and emotions can overwhelm us and make it difficult to find our own healing. I am here to assist clients in reaching their highest good in life.

Hello, my name is Dr. Collins. Are you experiencing emotional, psychological, spiritual, or other challenges that are interfering with your ability to live your best life? My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. In our sessions, I prioritize building a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and genuine understanding. Together, we will navigate the challenges you face and uncover your inner strengths and resilience.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for serving diverse communities. Hailing from the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico and rooted in the bustling landscape of NY/NJ, I proudly offer bilingual services, fluent in both English and Spanish, catering to the needs of the Spanish-speaking community. Beyond my professional role, I identify as a mother, Christian, woman of color, avid gardener, makeup enthusiast, and devoted animal lover. With extensive training in modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, Imago, Psychodynamic Theory, and Attachment Theory, I bring a comprehensive toolkit to my practice, ensuring tailored therapeutic options for each individual I work with. From trauma recovery to relationship dynamics, I am dedicated to empowering my clients on their journey towards healing and personal growth.

Hi there, I am glad you are here. My name is Amanda and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Minnesota. I am licensed in both MN and ND and have been in the mental health field for 5 years. Due to my previous experience in a hospital setting and community mental health center, I have comfortability working with individuals who are having a hard time with depression, anxiety, self-esteem and trauma but overall, anything interfering with your quality of life. I believe that in therapy you deserve a place to grow at your own pace so I will meet you where you are at (and challenge when appropriate). If this sounds like what you are looking for, I am here when you are ready.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Minnesota. I hold a Master’s degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and have over four years of experience in the field. I specialize in supporting clients with a wide range of issues, from everyday mental health concerns to severe and persistent mental illnesses. My therapeutic approach extends to couples therapy as well, where I work to strengthen relationships by promoting effective communication and fostering mutual understanding.

Hi, my name is Theresa, and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with adult clients to set meaningful goals to address their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In addition to being a LMFT and MN Board Approved Supervisor, I have a certification in Diversity and Inclusion and an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (CCSP), which I draw from to help guide clients through their therapeutic journey.

“Unconditional Positive Regard” - the idea of being accepted and supported, no matter what. Unconditionally. While it would be nice to always be surrounded by people who provide it, if you aren’t, you can find it in our space together. A firm believer in solution-focused, strengths-based, and action-oriented therapeutic approaches, Arika Adams, LCSW, has had over a decade of working with children and families who have experienced trauma, including significant work with adoptive families - particularly those adopting older children and perinatal women. Trained in Perinatal Mental Health, EMDR, and Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy her goal is to help you feel empowered to make the decisions you feel will help you live your best life.

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for a change? You're not alone. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of experience, I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and major life transitions with a compassionate, evidence-based approach. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to take meaningful steps forward. My approach is personalized to your needs, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy, and mindfulness practices to help you break free from unhelpful patterns, build resilience, and improve relationships. Whether you're adjusting to a major life change, struggling with self-doubt, relationship ambivalence, or searching for greater clarity and balance, I’m here to help. Therapy is a powerful tool for gaining insight, fostering self-compassion, and creating lasting change. Let’s work together to help you move forward with confidence and purpose.

Dr. Ostergaard is an experienced licensed practitioner with specialized training in neuropsychology. She has been a licensed practitioner since 2006 and completed her fellowship training in pediatric neuropsychology through the University of Minnesota Medical School’s Division of Pediatric Clinical Neuroscience. Her research and clinical interests have focused on traumatic brain injury (TBI) assessment and recovery. Dr. Ostergaard looks forward to collaborating with you to accomplish your goals by creating positive and sustainable changes, ultimately enhancing your quality of life.