CBT Therapy in Missouri

I am a therapist who integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to support clients in navigating challenges with anxiety, OCD, and related concerns. My experience as a teacher, school-based mental health counselor, and parent has shaped a well-rounded and practical approach to therapy, allowing me to connect with clients and families from multiple perspectives. In addition, I am trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a parent-based treatment program designed to help children and adolescents struggling with anxiety and OCD. While children do not attend SPACE sessions, they are always at the heart of the work, with parents empowered as the agents of change.

As a therapist, I hold on to the vision of your possible future even when you are in so much pain you cannot see beyond today. I wait patiently for the day when you can see the beauty inside yourself that I saw from the first day we met." (asiansformentalhealth) My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, and genuine. I take an eclectic approach to counseling in which I enjoy working with people from all different lifestyles. I enjoy helping people work through a variety of life challenges, from depression and anxiety to addictions,relationship difficulties, stress management, identity challenges, coping skills, and emotional awareness. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, and life transitions. Many of my clients are high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves or others. I also support individuals processing cultural or generational dynamics, perfectionism, and self-worth challenges. My approach to care is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences openly. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centered lens and tailor treatment to your unique needs, values, and pace.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have dedicated my career to supporting teens and adolescents since 2014. I find it incredibly rewarding to help young people navigate the complexities of their lives and overcome the challenges they face. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I am committed to helping my clients discover their strengths and create meaningful change in their lives.

As a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping people improve family and other intimate relationships. We deserve to feel loved and connected in our family and especially in our marriage. I also have extensive experience helping people overcome their fears and anxiety. I enjoy helping empower people to live a fuller life where anxiety is an after-thought instead of the first thought. I've been seeing clients since 2020.

Hello, I’m Stacy Lyles LPC, and I am passionate about helping individuals and couples find healing, balance, and meaningful connection in their lives. With over 10 of experience as a therapist, I provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and create lasting change. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, drawing on evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Couples Counseling. Whether you are navigating anxiety, relationship struggles, life transitions, or self-esteem concerns, I will walk alongside you with care and encouragement. I believe therapy is not about “fixing” you, but about empowering you to uncover your strengths, heal old wounds, and grow into the best version of yourself. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, valued, and supported as you move toward greater clarity, peace, and confidence.

As a therapist with over 10 years of experience, I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore what you're going through. Therapy can be a place to rebuild, reflect, and heal. My approach is collaborative and compassionate. I listen closely to your needs and goals, and together we’ll work to shift patterns, manage challenging emotions, and develop tools that support lasting change. I believe you are the expert of your own life — my role is to walk alongside you as you navigate it.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) serving Alabama and Missouri. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I am a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years and serving as a counselor for 9 of those years. I serve patients ages 4+ and their families.

Hello! I'm Robyn-A Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas and Missouri with over a decade of experience helping people navigate grief, caregiving, and major life transitions. I've worked extensively with adults and older adults through my time in hospice and as a bereavement coordinator. I bring a calm, compassionate presence to emotionally complex seasons of life. While my focus is on supporting adults and seniors, I also have a background in working with children and families. Whether you're processing loss, feeling emotionally stuck, or adjusting to a new phase of life, I'm here to help you feel less alone and more grounded.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Maine, Missouri, Oregon, and Washington with over 12 years of experience. I work with individuals navigating ADHD, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe to share your thoughts and experiences openly. I believe seeking therapy is a brave step toward growth and healing, and I am committed to empowering you with the tools and strategies you need to build a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Hi, I’m MaKaylah, a mental health counselor passionate about creating a safe and supportive space for healing, growth, and self-discovery. I earned my degree in Counseling from Maryville University, where I was trained in both evidence based practices and person centered care. In my practice, I take a humanistic approach, which means I view every client as whole, capable, and worthy; not defined by a diagnosis or past experiences. I believe that real change happens when you're truly seen, heard, and accepted without judgment. My role is to walk alongside you as you explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges, helping you reconnect with your inner strengths and values. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I offer a space where you can explore your experiences openly and at your own pace. I also integrate tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other modalities when helpful, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. You deserve to feel empowered and supported in your journey, and I’m here to help make that possible.

Hello, I'm Tanya, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Missouri-St. Louis School of Social Work, class of 2010. Born and raised on the west side of St. Louis city, I bring a deep understanding and connection to the community I serve. My focus is on supporting women through all stages of life and interpersonal growth, individuals with mental health diagnoses, those grappling with past experiences, and those facing relationship and work-related challenges.

Welcome, I’m Victoria. My main focus is on supporting individuals to navigate through life’s challenges with compassion, understanding and support. I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, codependency, life transitions, and more. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you can develop healthy coping strategies, build confidence, ease symptoms and make meaningful, lasting changes.

I'm a retired, decorated Air Force combat veteran. I graduated from Washington University St Louis, earning a Master of Science in Social Work with an emphasis in Social Entrepreneurship. ​I have years of experience as a therapist working with the military, veterans, and various populations. I've worked as a subject matter expert in wellness programs such as suicide prevention, substance abuse, alcohol and drug abuse, and smoking cessation. I was a certified resiliency trainer and instructor for over 15 years. 

I'm a passionate psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. My approach combines empathy and evidence-based practices, creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear or judgement. I encourage you to connect with your true identity, recognizing that vulnerability is a strength. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, or just seeking personal growth, I'm here with you to guide you. This isn't just about therapy; it's about peeling back the layers that life has placed on you. By embracing your uniqueness, you'll find the confidence to live boldly and authentically. Let's unlock the real you and pave the way for a life filled with genuine connections and fulfillment.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor passionate about helping people heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women, children, and BIPOC clients seeking emotional balance, confidence, and clarity. Using EMDR, mindfulness, CBT, and trauma-informed care, I guide clients to break free from stuck patterns and create lasting, meaningful change. I am a client-centered therapist that encourages clients to find the strength within by going on a journey of self discovery.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who obtained my Master's degree at Lindenwood University. I have 5 years of experience working in a community base setting as well as private practice. I have worked with children as young as 6 years old and all the way through adulthood. I provide them with supportive care in an open and safe environment.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Missouri. I completed my Masters at Mercer University Atlanta and have been practicing for 6 years. I believe everyone deserves to live a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. I help adults find clarity and calm to build a life that feels more aligned with who they really are.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I have worked with the mental health and IDD populations with over 10 years experience. I have a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling. I have a passion in helping others find creative ways to manage their feelings and emotions and stay well with learned coping skills.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) based in Indiana. I am also licensed in Missouri. I received my Master's from Purdue University and have been practicing for 22 years. I help teenagers and adults with addictions, couples issues, depression, anxiety, sexual difficulties, like infidelity and porn addiction, as well as many other areas.

Have you found therapy stuffy or ineffective in the past? Are you looking for a welcoming place where you can be yourself, feel comfortable, and make progress towards your goals? I am particularly experienced in the areas of trauma/PTSD, relationships, and anxiety. I offer online sessions and often incorporate educational games, expressive activities, and sand tray therapy, particularly for kids and teens. Whether you're an adult looking to talk it out and better understand your patterns, or have a child who needs a therapist they can actually engage with, I'm here to help.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Saint Louis University. I have worked with clients who have moderate to severe mental health symptoms for over 20 years. I enjoy challenging clients to get outside their comfort zone so I can assist them in creating a meaningful life. I use ACT, CBT and psychoeducation to give clients the tools they need to meet their goals and improve their lives.

As a Christian counselor, my commitment is to help you in a way that prioritizes your faith into your healing. Together we will identify the patterns that are holding you back and work toward practical steps for lasting change. Whether you’re navigating the impact of trauma, struggling with anxiety, or adjusting to life’s unexpected turns, I will come alongside you with compassion and guidance rooted in both professional expertise and faith.

I enjoy working with people of all ages and supporting their journey of acceptance, increasing resilience, and improving the quality of their life. I love getting to know the people that I work with, and with a collaborative and nonjudgmental mindset, together we will identify goals and values, and the barriers that prevent them from getting there. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been providing therapeutic services to children and adults since 2015. If you are ready to make a change, let’s get started today. I look forward to meeting you and working with you on your journey.

Welcome! I am Yulia, a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Virginia, Alabama, and Missouri with over 8 years of experience in mental health in a variety of settings. I am here to help you overcome challenges that you are currently facing. Our life journey may surprise us with many joyful and positive experiences, but there are certainly times when we stumble upon disappointments, stressful life events, health concerns, loss of a loved one, or traumatic experiences that bring us down to our knees and make us question the fairness of life itself and our place in it. If you can relate, you have come to a right place and I applaud you for finding strengths to reach out for help.

I’m Dr. Jessica Hughes, founder of Conscious Reflections Therapy, where I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges, heal from trauma, and build healthier relationships. I serve clients who are seeking a safe, supportive space to process their experiences and develop tools for lasting emotional wellness. My goal is to empower you with strategies that foster resilience, clarity, and balance so you can move forward with confidence and peace.

Hi, I'm Chris! I've been practicing since 2016 and have worked with a variety of clients such as domestic violence survivors, human trafficking survivors, people with anger issues, individuals in difficult relationships, people who are depressed, people who have anxiety, individuals with PTSD, individuals in jails and prisons, and people who just aren't sure of where to turn to for help. I earned my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Hodges University, and my BS in Criminal Justice from Florida Gulf Coast University. I started my private practice in 2022 after working for a national public mental health agency, which specializes in serious mental illness.

The world has only one you, and you were made to SHINE! Like an athletic coach, I apply my considerable training, experience, and creativity to help you carve out the steps to get from where you are to where you want to be, providing you support, accountability, and structure along the way. I provide coaching to individuals, families, and organizations facing a variety of challenges both in the US and around the world. As a licensed counselor, I also understand that sometimes we're just trying to keep our heads above water. For my counseling clients, I provide support and feedback to help them strengthen areas of their identity and process places of pain so that they can move through to healing. My seminary training and clinical experience equipped me with expertise in both theology and psychology for an integrated approach to total wellness. I look forward to having an ongoing helping relationship in a mobile culture so that, wherever life takes you, I am available to walk alongside you.

My name is Chiwoo, and I'm a licensed professional counselor (LPC) serving clients in Missouri and Florida. I support individuals who tend to overthink and prioritize others' needs, helping them find relief and improve their well-being. By integrating evidence-based therapy with a compassionate approach, I help dismantle unhealthy thought patterns and equip clients with practical tools they can use immediately.

✨ Your well-being is always my top priority. Since 2018, I’ve been helping individuals, couples, and families across Texas through virtual therapy—providing compassionate support that meets you right where you are. My sessions are thoughtfully designed to empower you, build confidence, and gently guide you through healing and growth. Whatever challenges you’re facing, you don’t ever have to face them alone.

I am a dedicated mental health therapist with a passion for supporting growth and healing in my clients. Rooted in a person-centered approach, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of rejection. I help clients examine both their internal and external worlds to better understand who they are, develop healthy coping strategies, and build more fulfilling relationships—with themselves and with others.

I am a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist specializing in supporting women who face challenges with self-esteem, emotional overwhelm, and the pressures of daily life. My approach is collaborative and strength-based, creating a safe space where clients can reconnect with their authentic selves. Together, we work to quiet the inner critic, foster self-compassion, and build practical coping skills that empower emotional resilience. I’m dedicated to guiding clients through life’s transitions with clarity and courage, blending evidence-based techniques with empathy to help create lasting, meaningful change. I also have over 15 years of experience helping high school students as a school counselor. I have certifications in School Counseling Leadership, Anxiety & Stress Management, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. I'm fully licensed mental health therapist in the States of Illinois and Missouri.

Freedom of mind. Don’t let worrying, about your past or current life stressors take up any more free real estate in your mind. Worrying offers NO RETURN on your investment. I’m Andrea Onukwue! It’s a pleasure and privilege to welcome you to Freed Mind Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Psychotherapy Privileges licensed to practice independently in the states of MO and NY. For the past five years, I've had my full-time private practice. Over the past 20 years, I’ve practiced in a variety of settings and contexts as a practitioner, C-suite executive employee assistance consultant, and senior executive leader. I’m dually credentialed as a psychotherapist and educational leader. I know people and have extensive experience journeying with individuals from all walks of life, as they seek greater clarity, wellness, fulfillment, and peace. My clients describe me as: Honest, easy to talk to, and highly competent in providing goal-directed care that achieves results. Levity and life application are always an integrated aspect of normalizing the treatment experience. My approach emphasizes cultivating a freed mindset as essential to a healthy, productive, and enjoyable life. It also emphasizes improving communication, managing expectations, and establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in interpersonal connections. Something that stands out about where I offer therapy is: Your telehealth session can occur in your own indoor or outdoor private space as long as you have a stable connection, are comfortable, and not operating a vehicle in your state of residence.

For over 15 years, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside people through some of the most challenging and meaningful moments of their lives. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, my role is not to “fix” anyone — it’s to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences, reconnect with your inner strength, and create the changes that matter most to you. I believe that healing doesn’t always come from having the right answers — sometimes, it begins with the right questions, honest reflection, and the courage to show up just as you are.

My name is Nikki, I’m a therapist with seven years of experience, specializing in helping clients address anxiety, depression, and trauma. Using EMDR and a personalized approach, I guide clients in overcoming limiting beliefs and building resilience for a more empowered, fulfilling life. Together, we can navigate life's obstacles, build resilience, and rediscover your inner strength. Taking that first step toward healing is an act of courage, and I’m here to provide the empathy and support you need along the way.

Have you found yourself wondering how your life has turned out this way? Do you feel stuck in your current circumstances? My practice is focused on providing support to adults from all walks of life who are facing challenges. My 9 years of experience in private practice, inpatient substance use facilities, and community mental health treatment centers allows me to recognize that therapy is not "one size fits all". You will leave our sessions feeling understood and with a plan for your future based on your personal goals and dreams.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas and Missouri. I received a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Webster University and I have been practicing for many years. I'm also currently achieving a doctorate degree in Forensic Psychology as well. I help children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and many more.

I am a licensed counselor in Missouri with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 and empower you in that journey.

Hi ~ I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Tennessee; I have been licensed for 13+ years. My focus is to help people learn how to manage anxiety and depression so as to live a more fulfilling life. I will provide resources, teach skills, and provide encouragement to help make changes. We will collaborate to make a plan for long term success.

As the Founder of Coyote Hill (coyotehill.org) I have worked with foster children and families in crisis for over 33 years. After retiring as CEO in 2021, I have opened my own private practice. In a world that often demands us to mask our struggles, having a space where your feelings are validated, and your experiences are understood can be transformative. Your story matters, and I am here to listen, understand, and help you write the next chapter—one where you feel empowered and at peace. Together, we can explore the possibilities that lie ahead and take steps towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. We can't undo the past, but we can work together to get to a place where you can finish well.

Welcome — this is a space where you can be honest, seen, and understood. I’m Shakea “Kea” Roper, LCSW, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience to our therapeutic partnership. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or burdened by cycles that just won’t shift — I see you. I specialize in helping people manage anxiety, depression, racing or intrusive thoughts, life transitions, and relational struggle. My style is active, grounded, and rooted in both compassion and challenge. Many clients say: “Kea listens like no one else — and she’s not afraid to stretch me when I need it.” I integrate evidence-based approaches (CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based, Brief Therapy) along with more specialized models: Making Sense of Your Worth (MSoYW): an 8-week group curriculum developed by HALO Project where we explore and heal the internal “lies” we believe about ourselves, rebuild toward positive self-worth and secure attachment. Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT): a structured, cognitive-behavioral system where we work through step-by-step exercises to enhance reasoning, decision-making, and a healthier identity (beyond self-destructive or impulsive patterns). I also actively engage in community work, and I’m currently pursuing my doctorate (which continues to deepen my perspective and rigor). Outside of sessions, you’ll often find me at board game night, crafting, or spending time with family. It’s an honor to walk alongside you. Nelson Mandela said, “Everything seems impossible until it’s done.” Let’s work together toward the possible. I’m currently accepting clients in Pennsylvania, Missouri, Kansas, Utah, North Dakota, and Nevada.

I am a dedicated mental health counselor with compassion for helping individuals who have survived trauma, like Domestic Violence, Rape, Human trafficking. I also specialize and have worked with mental health issues, work with children in the foster care system, anger issues, PTSD, family and marital problems, grief, depression and anxiety. I am a Christian Counselor and have been a minister for 15 years. I was ordained in 2011. I served in the military (Army) for 21 years. Mother and Grandmother.

Hi there, I am Rachel Logan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, esteemed author, speaker, and founder of Get to the Root Counseling, P. C. I provide counseling services for individuals in Illinois and Missouri. I help individuals break unwanted cycles and recover from past traumas using a combination of evidence-based techniques and Christian principles. My motto is "Therapy + God = Healing." I offer a unique model for uncovering the root of these cycles, enabling individuals to live peacefully.

Finding a therapist you can identify with, feeling heard & accepted can be a challenging feat. Therapists are not one size fits all. We are people with problems, just like you. I offer you over 20 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse treatment world. I have an undergraduate degree in psychology (2001) and a graduate degree (2006) in professional counseling. With working 10 of those years in a hospital setting, I also have a decent handle on possible medical issues you might need to be referred for. After more life experience, I became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2016 and opened my private practice. I can't tell you all the answers to life's problems, but together we can come to what the best decision will be for you in particular. Your goals and values are worth exploring. Your likes and dislikes matter. Your happiness is not selfish.

Hello there, I’m Elizabeth Jensema. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing social work for 20 years. I enjoy helping adults struggling with their mental health and also those struggling with addiction. My goal is to meet you where you are at and to help you achieve goals that are meaningful to you. I like to have fun with humor, stay positive, and focus on moving forward one day at a time. I feel it's important to provide support and the reassurance that you are not alone, we are all struggling. I hope I can help you to feel comfortable and supported.

I am joining Grow Therapy coming from Mainspring Recovery, where I had been serving as the Clinical Supervisor. I have 17 years of experience in behavioral health, with a concentrated focus on mental health and substance abuse. My extensive experience in dealing with and treating substance abuse has placed me at the frontlines of mental health care. My career has been marked by clinical leadership positions, including roles as a Team Lead providing clinical supervision to behavioral health practitioners and as a highly sought-after mental health consultant and advisor. My leadership and expertise have been instrumental in improving the quality of care in various settings. I hold both a master’s and bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Central Missouri. Additionally, I possess numerous certificates and training in mental health, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia, Maryland, DC and Missouri.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I currently reside in Florida and provide teletherapy for individual adults of all ages and groups for adults with mental health and chemical dependency issues. I have been working for the last 12 years in various settings including assessment and referral, inpatient, and intensive outpatient for a hospital crisis center. I have also held an outpatient private practice for 8 years. I enjoy my work with clients who are trying to learn how to manage addictions or depression and make positive changes to feel better, more self assured, and more confident in their ability to function well day to day.

Hello, and thank you for taking the first step in your journey to a better you! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor. My career spans twenty years of working with Adults, Kiddos and Families through the multiple stressors life can present. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, ADHD, Childrens Behavioral Issues, Illness Management and Trauma. I have an extensive history of working with Helping Professionals. I will bring to you my experience in current therapeutic models, and evidence-based modalities to help you find ways to cope at this time in your life.

Anxiety & Sleeplessness Fear, insomnia, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we work towards increasing sleep time, decreasing panic or anxiety attacks or symptoms, fully understanding where overwhelming emotions stem from, and how to move towards being your best self. Relationships Relationship counseling can be beneficial to couples who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection, in all stages of their relationship. Therapy sessions are held with both partners and is a supportive place to discuss issues and solutions to better strengthen your relationship. Trauma and Healing Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger after post-traumatic events. We work together through these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and Illinois. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of settings. Life comes with many challenges and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by what has come our way. Together we can identify concerns and find ways to move through life challenges. Through exploring and learning ways to manage emotions, I feel there are opportunities for growth. I believe it is important to identify individual strengths and will guide you towards positive self worth. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term counseling, I will work with you to achieve a greater self-fulfillment.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) (LCPC) (LPC) (LCMHC) (LMHC) based in Arizona. I am licensed in various states. I received my Masters from Avila University in Kansas City and have been practicing for over a decade. I have adults struggling with life problems and aid them in regaining control over worry, panic, fear, or dread in order to become the best version of themselves.