Therapists in New Jersey

I am Caitlin, a licensed mental health counselor who is trained in multiple trauma techniques and has years of experience working with both adult and adolescents. I work hard to help my clients create positive and healthy change in their lives and sustain that healthiness. I believe all deserve to be accepted and understood no matter what they may struggle with and I work to provide a safe and caring space.

Hi! I am a licensed mental health therapist, currently practicing in 5 states (NJ, NC, FL, GA and TX). I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling and Psychology from LaSalle University, over 10 years ago. My goal is to give you the tools needed to stop surviving, and start living an authentic life. In a safe and secure place, we will face the past, heal it and bring you to become the best version of yourself.

I am so glad you reached out for help! I am passionate about helping people navigate life's difficulties with compassion and empathy. Oftentimes, it is our difficulties that are the catalyst for big change. I bring over 30 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings (Residential treatment, Intensive outpatient, EAP and private practice) but most enjoy connecting in individual sessions. I look forward to working with you and assisting you with living your best life.

Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. Let's take a moment and recognize that you've taken the first step towards improving your mental health, because we both know that therapy can feel daunting, yet hopeful at the same time. My name is Francina and I am here to help you on this journey. I am a licensed professional counselor and I practice in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I am a board certified art therapist, certified autism spectrum disorder specialist, and certified clinical trauma professional. As an integrative therapist, I provide a safe and inviting environment that enables clients to confront challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, trauma, and more. I am welcoming, non judgmental, accepting, and understanding. My focus is on assisting clients in developing more satisfying, enriching lives, as they become more empowered to gain more freedom in their lives. Therapy can promote what you truly deserve. Someone to hear you, to see you. To believe you. I listen with compassion but I don't just sit there while you talk; rather it is a conversation. If that resonates with you, I'm here whenever you feel ready to take the next step.

Hi, I’m Tiffany Walker, LCSW — a trauma-informed therapist and wellness strategist who helps high-achieving Black women and BIPOC professionals heal from racial, workplace, and life transition stressors. My approach is integrative and somatic, blending evidence-based tools with reflective, restorative practices that honor your whole self—mind, body, and spirit. In our work together, we’ll focus on safety, self-trust, and reclaiming peace as your new normal.

I am a licensed clinical social worker, in various states, for over 20 years. I am here to support you through your therapeutic journey. Therapy is different for each person, and we will work together to build the best treatment plan for you. We will work together to ensure you feel comfortable sharing in sessions in order to process what you are currently going through.

Hi. I’m Amy Aracena, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified School Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in clinical, school, and community mental health settings. As the founder of Pura Vida Family Psychotherapy, I am committed to providing bilingual (English/Spanish) therapy that is inclusive, compassionate, and practical. My professional journey includes serving as a psychiatric clinician, child and family therapist, and school social worker—experiences that give me a deep understanding of the challenges clients face across the lifespan.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+years of experience providing treatment in individual and group settings. I’m a culturally responsive, trauma-informed therapist using techniques to help clients manage varying symptoms. I specialize in treating women, men, children, couples, and families managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and anger management through behavior modification, communication skills, interpersonal effectiveness and rebuilding family cohesiveness. It is important to me to work with people to ensure they know they are seen, heard, and valued.

Are you overwhelmed by constant arguments, endless parenting struggles, or the heavy weight of ADHD, neurodiversity, or unresolved identity questions? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience, I specialize in supporting adults, older teens, couples, and families who are ready to move beyond cycles of conflict and disconnection. I offer an affirming, practical, and lived-experience-grounded space, utilizing a relational and flexible approach—blending analytic insight, somatic awareness, and humor—to help you feel seen, understood, and empowered. Whether you’re seeking stronger communication, deeper connection, or relief from the burden of carrying it all alone, my goal is to help you build clarity, resilience, and relationships that truly thrive.

Hello, my name is Sergio and I practice a Humanistic approach which focuses on an individual's inherent and continued personal growth. I have over ten years experience which includes adults, children, couples and families within a variety of social contexts. The core principles that form the foundation of my counseling practice are the same that guide my own personal life. I love my work and I am happy and hopeful to help you.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist based in Philadelphia, servicing both Pennsylvania and New Jersey clients. I am originally from California where I worked primarily in Group Homes and behavioral hospitals. I received my masters from Capella University. My background also includes outpatient, community based outpatient programs, like Family Base, and case management services, providing care and support for individuals of all ages, couples, families, and other service providers. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to allow them room to develop a sense of safety and security then gradually include holistic and intensive interventions to work through and understand presenting problems.

I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in NJ. believe in a holistic approach to therapy, which means I aim to understand you as a whole person, including your physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual well-being. I take into account your past experiences, current stressors, trauma, and unique circumstances. My approach isn't a one-size-fits-all; I use a variety of therapeutic techniques.

Hello! Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you feel there is a lack of purpose, fulfillment, and passion in your life? Do people in your life often have a tough time really getting what you are going through? Are you caught up in unhealthy patterns? Do you want your life to change, but are unsure how to make that happen? “It is okay not to be okay!” If you are experiencing one of life’s unexpected challenges and would like to explore your thoughts and feelings in a private, safe, and comfortable environment tailored to help increase your awareness and ability to work through challenges, I am here for you. I view therapy as a safe space for processing life experiences, emotions, thoughts, and trauma to achieve one’s goals and necessary growth. I specialize in collaborating with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, OCD, and chronic medical conditions. My approach is individualized, client centered, and strength-based, as I believe clients are the experts of their lives and determine the direction of the therapeutic process. I believe in focusing on the strengths of each person and building from there. My goal is to help people live a happier and more fulfilling life by working through their challenges.

I offer holistic, client-centered psychotherapy that weaves together mindfulness practices and DBT-informed skills to support healing and emotional balance. My approach creates a grounded, compassionate space where you can explore your experiences, understand your inner world, and build practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. Together, we work at a pace that feels safe and empowering, helping you cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and a deeper sense of well-being.

I provide a non-judgmental, genuine, and warm atmosphere that helps clients feel at ease from the start. My passion is supporting people through a wide range of challenges — whether it’s everyday stress related to relationships, work, or school, or deeper, long-standing issues rooted in childhood or past trauma. No matter where you’re starting from, my goal is to help you develop a stronger, more grounded, and content sense of self.

Hello! Who am I as a professional, my name is Rukiya and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in New Jersey. I have been working as an outpatient clinician in community mental health for the past four years and working in the field for the past 6 years. I have my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from New Jersey City University. I work with a variety of people from different communities who are looking to address their challenges at their own pace. My focus has been helping individuals find healthy ways to reconnect with themselves and their communities. Who I am as a person, I went into this field wanting to understand myself more and others around me. What came out of it was finding myself, finding community, and finding the language to name things that were happening to me and around me. I am a writer and a poet. I am a former peer educator. I believe people are the experts of themselves and I get the honor to hold space and help connect the dots. I'm passionate about creating a space where someone can find the best version of themselves because it was a gift that was given to me. Lover of basketball and Women's sports.

My name is Melissa Racklin and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have over 20 years of experience with individuals who have mental health challenges. Through counseling, I help individuals to work through symptoms that are holding them back and live a better and more fulfilling life. As a seasoned clinician, I have lots of experience working with a wide range of diagnostic conditions.

Hello! My name is Shannon and I'm so happy you are taking steps to take care of you. In our sessions, I strive to create an open, judgement- free space where together we can explore your needs, identify your challenges, and create actionable steps for you to grow. In my twenty years of experience as a social worker, I've partnered with a range of diverse clients in different countries, and have been able to help many achieve their goals. I believe in the power of collaboration, and will work hard to establish an authentic and trusting relationship with you.

I'm Lyndsey Gilroy, LCSW, and I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, and major life transitions. My approach is warm and collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based methods like CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and person-centered work. I help clients understand themselves more deeply, break old cycles, build confidence, and develop tools that create real, lasting change. My goal is to offer a safe space where you can feel seen, supported, and empowered to step into a calmer, more fulfilling version of your life.

Hello! My name is Laura Duffy, and I am licensed as both a professional counselor (LPC) and a clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) within the state of New Jersey. I started my career about a decade ago and graduated from William Paterson University's MA in Clinical and Counseling Psychology program in 2015. I have experience working in multiple levels of care within substance use disorder treatment settings, in addition to having worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. I have been seeing clients via telehealth for the past four years with varying degrees of mental health conditions.

I am a licensed mental health professional with years of experience working with both youth and adults facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. My practice is grounded in compassion and a genuine commitment to helping clients feel understood and supported as they work toward positive change. I strive to create a safe, collaborative environment where healing, growth, and resilience can take root.

I’m Sean Butler, a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges with clarity and compassion. My approach is integrative, blending Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) concepts to create a safe, supportive space for growth. I work with clients to build self-awareness, strengthen emotional resilience, and foster healthier relationships—both with themselves and others.

As a licensed professional counselor, I believe everyone deserves a safe space to heal, grow, and thrive—especially when navigating anxiety, depression, and life’s inevitable challenges. My mission is to provide compassionate, culturally affirming care that truly sees you—your story, your background, and your unique journey. ​ I proudly serve individuals from diverse racial, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, embracing people from ALL walks of life. Whether you're facing life transitions, feeling overwhelmed, or simply seeking balance, we’re here to walk alongside you with understanding and respect.

Cynthia Rose has 20 years of experience working within the mental health field in the US and Europe. She has extensive experience treating mental health and substance abuse issues in jail and probation populations, domestic violence offenders, active and retired military personnel, and emergency mental health providers. She is an LMFT, is certified in DBT and is trained in EMDR as well as other modalities that can help.

Welcome! My name is Alexandra, and I am so glad you have chosen to focus on your mental health. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and understood. I work collaboratively with my clients to reduce anxiety, manage stress, and build stronger coping skills for everyday life. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and help you reconnect with your sense of self-worth and resilience. I’m passionate about helping clients find balance and confidence as they navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re feeling stuck, anxious, or uncertain, I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and growth. My approach is warm, compassionate, and goal-oriented—I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward at a pace that feels right for you.

I am a Military Veteran who started a new career where I could connect and help others. I went back to college and attained my masters degree in social work . I have been working as a therapist at an addiction/mental health treatment center for the last 3 years. I joined this platform to help others including those who struggle with addiction, veterans and anyone else who might need help navigating their mental health.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am committed to empowering individuals and couples to overcome life's obstacles. I specialize in offering compassionate therapy and assistance for issues such as substance use, anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, and various life challenges with individuals and couples. My passion lies in creating a safe and supportive environment where my clients can embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.

Hi , my name is Fennel Kpolie, I am a Licensed Clinical social worker. I received my MSW from Rutgers University, New Jersey in 2008, and have been practicing since. However, the last seven years of my career has been focused on working with adults challenged by Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder, empowering them to acquire helpful coping skills to manage their symptoms, and improve their daily functioning.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters in Psychological Counseling as well as my Post-Master’s Certification in Professional Counseling from Monmouth University. I have been practicing for 22 years in numerous settings including Partial Hospital Program, OPBH at a general hospital, private practice in office settings and virtual platforms. I worked with adults only and have experience in individual, group, marriage/couples and family therapy.

I am a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC). I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and recovery. I completed my master’s degree in social work from Rutgers University and have years of first-hand experience working one-on-one with clients. I am a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP), equipped with the skills and expertise necessary to address the complex needs of those affected by trauma.

Specializing In..... Child and Adolescent and Family Therapy * Individual Anxieties *School & Group Counseling * Children and Adolescent Counseling *Eating Disorder Counseling *Divorce Recovery and Peaceful Resolution of Family *Education Counseling for Elementary Students and Special Education Students and Parents *Educational Plan and IEP consulting * Social Skills and Conflict Resolution Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselo-dual Master's from University of Pennsylvania in School Counseling as well as Mental Health Counseling.She has her Bachelor's degree from St. Joseph's University in Education. Lauren specializes in working with children and adolescents and families as well as eating disorders, anxiety and school related issues. Lauren has experience as a school counselor at Hartranft Elementary School in Philadelphia, PA. She has private practice counseling experience at Starting Point in Westmont,NJ. Lauren also has experience in working with woman and girls suffering from eating disorders at the Eating Disorder Treatment Center in Marlton,NJ.

I am trauma therapist who is here to provide a safe and empathetic place for you to learn new ways of thinking, feelng and acting according to your life and therapeutic goals. My joy is helping others feel better and live an optimal quality of life. I have served as MICA Coordinator and Addictions IOP Cooridinator, specialize in complex trauma, counsel parents of chidren with ASD, and help people manage there ADHD. I'll combine my past careers as an educator, arts advocate, performer, athlete, coach, artist and continuing career as a professional musician in the integrated approach to your treament as it is tailored to you.

My name is Dawn Glasco. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree at Rutgers University and my Master’s Degree at Kean University. I have been a therapist for over 15 years, providing services to clients of all ages and backgrounds. My clinical approach is primarily Cognitive Behavior Therapy, however, I appreciate a holistic approach. I am certified in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I was born and raised in New Jersey. I have three amazing children. In my free time, I love watching my favorite shows, which include Chicago Med, Chicago Fire and Chicago PD. My favorite relaxation and calming technique is listening to Gospel music and singing my heart out (whether it is pleasing to the ear, is yet to be determined LOL).

Hello! My name is Alicia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families through a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. While I specialize in working with youth ages 5–18, I am also passionate about supporting young adults in their 20s as they navigate life transitions, relationships, and personal growth. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, school-related concerns, and building effective coping skills. I use an integrative and collaborative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and client-centered principles. My style is warm, personal, and grounded in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered. Throughout my career, I have worked in school-based counseling, IIC services, and private practice settings. I love being a social worker because it allows me to help people discover their strengths, achieve both big and small milestones, and grow in ways that feel meaningful to them. Witnessing clients become empowered and confident in their ability to create change is the most rewarding part of the work I do.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with expertise in Addiction Counseling, Relationships, Family Issues, Co-dependency, Bipolar, Anxiety and Anger Management. I have been in the field for over 30 years and have worked with an array of individuals and families. It is my mission to help another individual find the path to living a successful and healthy life. I have experience working with adolescents, adults and their families. My approach is to empower you to make lifelong changes to live a healthy and productive life. This is your therapy and an opportunity for me to help guide you through your journey and find a sense of peace and happiness.

Hi! My name is Karen McDougal, I am a LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) with over 14 years of experience. My scope of practice includes general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, etc.) life adjustments/transitions, trauma informed therapy, familial conflicts, crisis intervention, career exploration and planning, and self esteem. I have conducted crisis assessments, provided crisis interventions, created, and implemented treatment plans, and discharge plans; in a hospital setting, outpatient services, and in home agencies. As well as provided education: on parenting behavioral issues and healthy relationships. I have facilitated and co-facilitated social skills groups, a psycho-educational group on anger management, and healthy teen/pre-teen dating relationships. I have assisted in observations for functional behavioral analysis reports, data collection, and treatment recommendations for children with behavioral disturbances. Also worked with children, teens, and adults on career exploration and planning.

Hi! My name is Auria and I am an LCSW licensed in NC, PA, VA, SC, and NJ. I have been in the field of social work for over 15+ years. I currently work in a hospital and jail setting. Both of these roles require me to provide support to patients and their families (where appropriate). Private practice is one of my passions, and I enjoy learning about people’s journey's! Let’s explore together!

Hi, I’m Dawn — a psychotherapist dedicated to helping clients heal, grow, and create lives that feel aligned and fulfilling. With over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through life transitions, stress, and relationship challenges, I bring a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to every session. I blend evidence-based practices with mindfulness and mind-body awareness to help you reconnect with your strengths and move toward meaningful change. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. Together, we’ll work at your pace to rediscover balance, confidence, and a sense of peace in your daily life.

The journey of healing begins with a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect. My worldview and core values determine my approach to therapy and engaging with you. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to therapy: I consider the art and science of healing to support the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. I have decades of rich and varied life experiences which inform my practice. I have worked in schools with children as an educator with a great understanding of human development, I am a grass-roots level community development social worker and a mental health clinician in community behavioral health.

I love providing support to women in the perinatal period. I am also passionate about assisting clients navigate infertility, infant and child loss. As a single parent, I am able to use my own experience to assist client in navigating co-parenting and other challenges. I will assist clients through family conflict, relationship issues, grief and loss, and recovery from abuse/trauma. I also provide couples counseling to help improve communication and manage conflict.

Hello there! My name is Becky, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Along with this license, I am also a Certified Grief Professional (CGP), a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), a Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP), and a Certified Specialist in Anger Management (CSAM). As a therapist, it is my privilege to connect with you and assist you in developing your own journey throughout the therapeutic process. My stance on therapy is person centered, with a focus on compassion and understanding, while also trying to find that balance of "telling it like it is" in certain situations. While I do believe humor is a good source of medicine, I also believe in using various forms of systems theory, where there is an understanding that your issues and presenting problems do not happen in a vacuum. We will discuss how life's challenges, whether they occurred in childhood or during your morning walk to get coffee, have impacted your view of self and others and what that means for you moving forward. Together, we will dive into your thoughts and emotions and develop healthy ways to express yourself and manage what you have been experiencing.

As a therapist, I’m passionate about helping people understand themselves on a deeper level and feel more grounded in their lives. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to explore how thoughts, emotions, and relationships influence well-being. Together, we’ll identify what’s holding you back, strengthen your coping tools, and create meaningful changes that support greater connection, confidence, and balance.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Caldwell University and have been practicing for 7 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in various settings. I currently work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress-management, and self-discovery. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment for clients to create positive change, gain self-awareness, and lead a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Hi, I’m really glad you’re here. I’m a down-to-earth therapist who believes in meeting people exactly where they are—no judgment, no pressure, just real conversation and real support. Life can feel heavy sometimes. New stressors, a new job, family changes, relationship challenges, or just trying to figure out who you are and what you need right now—it’s a lot. And you don’t have to navigate it alone. I enjoy working with adults who are simply trying to make sense of life while doing the best they can. You don’t need to have everything figured out to come to therapy. You just need a space to exhale, reflect, and take things one step at a time. My approach is warm, honest, and collaborative. We’ll look at what’s weighing on you, what’s shaping your patterns, and what support you need to move forward. Together, we’ll work on growth, healing, and learning to give yourself a little grace along the way. If you’re looking for a therapist who truly listens, understands, and walks with you through the hard parts — I’d be honored to support you.

My name is Dr. Oluwatoyin (Toyin) Fawole, and I am a compassionate, outcome-focused behavioral health practitioner. I hold a Doctorate in Behavioral Health and a license as a Clinical Social Worker, bringing over 25 years of clinical experience to the field. Additionally, I am a board-certified Diplomate in Social Work and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, which enables me to collaborate effectively with you.

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who has over 25 years of experience working with people across all ages around all the major life transitions and mental health issues. I have practiced in both inpatient, outpatient and partial hospitalization programs as well as medical hospitals and emergency rooms. I have a passion for helping people realize that they are not defined by their physical or mental health conditions.

As a results driven psychotherapist, specializing in helping individuals overcome challenges, achieve clarity and understand how they relate to the world around them. Christina does this by helping clients cope with and decrease symptamology to unlock their full potential. Christina uses a kind approach in sessions while encouraging interaction and is not just a "tell me how you feel" therapist.

I’m Alece Coleman—a wife, mother of three, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Supervisor in New Jersey, and a woman whose life and work are deeply rooted in faith. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work, and I am licensed to practice in New Jersey, Georgia, and Florida. I also have postgraduate training and certification in perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, pregnancy-related mental health, Narrative Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I hold a firm belief that clients should never feel they have to leave their faith, culture, or identity outside the therapy room. These parts of who we are can be essential to understanding our struggles, building resilience, and experiencing lasting healing.

Hello! I am an Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey with 16+ years of experience working with individuals of all ages in outpatient, in-home, crisis and hospital settings. I aim to collaborate on building a safe space where individuals can feel free to express themselves and work on building the life they desire. I generally offer a laid back approach and calming space in order to foster healing and onward progress.