Therapists in New Jersey

Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of social work and mental health experience. I utilize evidence-based therapy models focused on my clients' strengths, abilities, and unique life experiences in efforts to improve quality of life and restore overall health and wellness. I greatly enjoy my work with clients and the reward in my work is seeing clients succeed and overcome life's challenges.

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem and confidence and career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Hello, I am a LPC in NJ working with youth, young adults and individuals in the areas of mood, daily functioning related to needs, environment and emotional regulation, families, couples and intermittent crisis. I also work with all types of loss and grief as it presents uniquely to each individual and family. I have been in the mental health field in many arenas for over 25 years and am passionate about developing strengths as tools for all.

Hello! Hola! Welcome to New Day New Beginnings, LLC. My name is Ivelisse and I am a bilingual therapist with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with teens and adults (young and older). I am a faith-informed (Christian Catholic) therapist and I integrate biblical truth and evidence based techniques in my practice. However, you determine if religion/spirituality will be part of your sessions. I am currently providing in person and telehealth services, working with older teens ages 16+ and adults (18+). My approach is eclectic, insight-oriented, with a focus in strength based and client-centered, because there is no “one size fits all” as we are all unique individuals. Feel free to visit my website: www.newdaynewbeginningsllc.com

I'm a bilingual (Spanish & English) licensed clinical psychologist with experience providing psychotherapy to diverse age & paths of life populations. For me, doing psychotherapy is to create a space in which people can be brave & curious enough to tell our stories from a place of compassion, self-awareness, self-knowledge & accountability. Viewing the world from a critical perspective, where I can integrate intersections, such as gender, culture, power dynamics & systems of oppression, makes my practice a space for awareness, healing with context & transformative action.

I am an empathic, supportive therapist who utilizes therapeutic tools to empower my clients to lead more fulfilling lives. I provide assistance in identifying areas that require change, healing past traumas, enhancing relationships, fostering greater self-awareness, learning and implementing effective coping skills, and establishing achievable goals. I find that mindfulness techniques can support the healing process, in addition to building community and strengthening or developing a support network. These are areas that I would also focus on during your treatment. I am also an LGBTQIA+ ally.

I am an experience therapist who can support you in making positive changes in your life. My areas of specialty include personality and mood disorders, addiction, and grief, but I have work with clients on a wide range of issues over the years. I help my clients through a combination of education on how the human mind works, and increasing awareness of how those principals are playing out in your daily life.

My name is Kelly Dominici and I am a Licensed Therapist with 25 yrs of counseling experience. I received a my Master's Degree from Temple University. Therapy is a very personal experience. It is not a one size fits all approach. Taking the first steps to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You made the first big step and reached out for help. I am here to support you in that process. It's an honor to walk with you in your journey to healing.

I know anxiety and depression. I know how it feels to fall down over and over and believe like you're destined to fall again. I also know firsthand how changing our thinking can help us to overcome even the most daunting challenges. I've helped countless people make significant progress in every aspect of their lives. I utilize established modalities like CBT, ACT and Motivational Interviewing, but I also know the value of listening.

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.

Are you struggling with issues that interfere with your ability to enjoy life? I am a licensed psychologiost with over 30 years experience treating depression, anxiety, and reactions to life difficulties and offer a comfortable,caring, confidential environment that fosters insight, growth, and change in the shortest time possible. My approach is a collateral one in which we work together to uncover and resolve problematic issues. People find me to be a down to earth professional with a genuine understanding of their needs .I love what i do, and i look forward to working with you!

Hi! I’m Courtney Terry, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience supporting individuals and families across New Jersey. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. After getting clinically licensed, I obtained my School Social Worker certificate and have dedicated my career to helping individuals in a variety of settings. I will work with you to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and self-compassion. I have worked with an array of clients of all ages and ethnicities. Whether you're a teen finding your way or an adult seeking growth, I’m here to help you become the best version of yourself. Let’s work together to create meaningful change within you, and build the life you envision!

I am Dr. Saima Sandhu, a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. Using a range of therapeutic techniques, including CBT and DBT, I guide my clients toward emotional resilience and personal growth. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and live more fulfilling lives.

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, passionate about helping people find strength and resilience during life's most challenging moments. I earned my Master’s degree from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia and have spent the past five years working closely with adolescents and adults navigating the effects of mental health disorders, trauma, and major life transitions. Whether it's processing a painful past or adapting to unexpected change, I’ve supported clients in building healthier coping skills and improving their daily lives. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique journey toward healing and growth.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker conducting sessions virtually in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Nevada. I specialize in people that are going through tough times and need coping skills to manage. Life might have thrown you curve balls, and you might not be accepting of the uncertainty and the change. I'll be here to tell you that bad situations can be temporary and life changes can also be great. I specialize in helping people who fall down but get back up. I'll help you to talk about your feelings and help you to make treatment goals that you have been wanting to reach.

Hello, I'm Jose L. Diaz, a Licensed Counselor in Virginia with 16 years of experience, I have had the privilege to to meet a variety of people in some of the most challenging times of their lives. Being able to be an intimate part of their lives, and connecting with their challenges, pain and suffering has allowed me to understand individuals beyond my clinical abilities. I have always remembered the human component that we all possess and the resiliency possessed, is what we use to leverage the recovery and healing towards your well-being. I sincerely appreciate and respect being allowed into your vulnerability.

HI! I'm Donna. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC) practicing in New Jersey. I received my master's degree at Temple University and have been working in behavioral health settings since 1996. I worked in a medical facility treating in-patient and out-patient clients, an adolescent group home and an elementary school as the school counselor. I help children, young adults, adults, couples and families. One of my favorite quotes is, "Nothing great is ever achieved without much endurance." In life, we go through things. Some are good and some are not so good. You made it this far, so that means you have something to work on and you are willing to see if a therapist can help. I have worked with people of all ages, genders, religions, races and sexual orientations. No two people are the same and all people deserve to be seen as the individual whom they are. Therapy may not always be easy, but I will treat you with respect and honesty. This is your platform. I will go at your pace so that you are comfortable, but I will challenge you. Together, we will set a plan and work towards achieving your goals.

My name is Lydia Peters, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I've worked in many different settings with different populations. I possess a vast amount of experience with the elderly along with individuals living with developmental disability, traumatic brain injury (TBI), mental illness, chemically addiction, homelessness, individual’s accused of sexual offense or sexually deviant behaviors , adults admitted to acute medicine & Veterans. I currently only offer Individual therapy services to adults 18 years old and up. A healthy therapeutic alliance brings forth a different perspective & additional support. Let's work together towards your success.

As a licensed professional counselor with over a decade of experience, my work revolves around helping individuals overcome addiction, emotional challenges, and mental health disorders. I employ evidence-based interventions and a holistic approach to provide clients with coping mechanisms, relapse prevention strategies, and a supportive environment. My focus includes anger management, helping clients understand triggers, challenge negative self-talk, and develop emotional regulation skills. Additionally, I work with individuals with mental health disorders, creating a safe space for healing and using evidence-based treatments. Beyond individual therapy, I actively engage in community outreach programs to raise awareness about mental health and addiction. My aim is to provide compassionate care and a healing space for individuals seeking support.

I am offering telehealth sessions through Therapy Notes, and Spruce Platforms We are living in some challenging times today and many people are struggling with dealing with these issues that we face today. Several of these challenges are affecting us in several ways directly and indirectly. If you are suffering from trauma, anxiety, and substance abuse I am here to assist you on your journey in coming up with positive coping skills to manage your life. I have 17 years of experience working with the mental health and substance abuse population. My style focuses on how outside relationships affects your wellbeing.

I am passionate about guiding you on a transformative journey towards emotional well-being by understanding how you operate and issues you may have developed from your experiences. As well as understanding the people around you and their issues and how they operate. Also by learning how to best care for yourself by setting boundaries enabling you to establish stronger, more connected relationships with the people in your life. My mission is to create a nurturing, safe space where individuals, couples, and families can explore their inner worlds and discover the power to heal, grow, and thrive as individuals and within their relationships.

Hello, I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in New Jersey. I received my masters degree from Rutgers School of Social Work and have been practicing for 13 years. I collaborate with adults struggling with challenges related to depression, anxiety, and neuro-divergence to find solutions that are specifically tailored and evidence based. My focus is creating an open minded and safe space where you can work at your own pace.

Hello! My name is Jenni, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in New Jersey. I have five years of experience and specialize in helping clients of all ages who are dealing with various challenges to achieve their personal and professional goals and become the best versions of themselves. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Hello. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living in New Jersey . I received my Masters from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work. I have over 20 years of clinical experience. My practice is centered on working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, burnout and depression. We work together as a team to create a plan that best work for you.

Welcome! I am Kimberly. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 14 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us desire a sense of peace, connection, and well-being within ourselves and in our life. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel grateful to be able to support those who desire to grow and heal.

Dr. Viva has substance abuse with/without medication assistance, anti-violence, acute care treatment, crisis stabilization experience, and clinical support expanding school-aged children to the geriatric population. Therapeutic approaches are CBT, Harm Reduction, and Motivational Interviewing. NJ, DE, national, and USDOT clinical credentials which are LCSW, LCADC, ACS, MAC, and SAP. Dr. Viva is licensed in NJ with 23 years of professional work experience in the areas of mental health, education, and substance abuse. Her experience encompasses helping clients with a variety of concerns such as stress, anxiety, addiction, trauma, abuse, grief, depression, and loss. Dr. Viva is here to support, empower, and facilitate your change process on this wellness journey. Please check out Balm In Gilead Community Services, Inc. website at balmingileadcs.com for additional resources.

Welcome! I'm a licensed mental health counselor with the privilege of supporting individuals, couples, and families through the unique challenges life can bring. Over the years, I’ve helped clients navigate a variety of transitions, including divorce, marriage, dating, and other significant life changes. These moments can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through them alone. Together, we’ll work to help you manage, adjust, and move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I received my Masters in Social Work from Fordham University in NYC. I work with adults who are currently experiencing depression and/or anxiety to help them discover the root of their concerns so that they can become the best versions of themselves. Since every individual is so unique, I use an individualized approach in talk therapy to help you overcome your challenges by gaining new coping skills and new ways to think about your situation.

Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you want to feel better, be less stressed, feel more positive, handle your thoughts and feelings more effectively? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, I can help. I am a supportive and empowering therapist. I provide a warm and supportive environment that stresses collaboration, mutual respect and trust. If you are you ready to start: developing healthy coping skills, change negative behavioral patterns, improve personal/romantic relationships, work on problem solving techniques and reduce stress. Please reach out so we can discuss how to meet your goals. Our work is empathic, proactive, and collaborative- we are on this journey together. We will make meaning out of hardship and transform crisis into opportunity. I am passionate and committed in helping each person achieve their maximum potential. I am licensed in NY, CT and NJ.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Delaware and licensed in multiple states. I received my Masters from Holy Family University and have been practicing for over 8 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety, stress, depression and relationship problems become the best versions of themselves. A key part of my clinical practice is to build rapport with my clients to assist them with feeling comfortable sharing what can be painful topics and issues. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most influential factors in assisting individuals to be successful in therapy and reach their goals.

Hi, My name is Dr. Sister Marian Mikhail Doctorate of Min., L.C.P.C. Advanced, PhD Clinical Pastoral Counseling, M.Div., LMHC, LPC, M.A. Rel. Ed. I am a licensed therapist in New York and New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

My dream clients are members of the BIPOC community is someone who is deeply committed to their personal growth and healing. This client recognizes the impact of systemic racism on their mental health and is ready to actively engage in therapy to address the unique challenges they face in the workplace. They are open to exploring the intersections of their racial identity, work environment, and emotional well-being, and are motivated to develop strategies for resilience, empowerment, and self-compassion.

I am an LMHC and NCC. I have been passionate about helping people for as long as I can remember. When I was eight years old, I remember begging my mother to let me start an advice column in the local newspaper. She did not, but that never stopped me from listening to my friends around me and trying to help them solve their problems. I knew I wanted to turn this into a career! In learning about what therapists do, I knew this was the right move for me! While therapists aren’t advice givers, I absolutely love being a soundboard for individuals and helping them live their best lives; lives they often never thought they could live. I am very passionate about helping people achieve the possible.

I've provided mental health services in country settings in Missouri, city locations such as St. Louis and New York, along with work within every level of care (outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatment) since the mid-1990s. I hold two graduate degrees from Lindenwood University in the metro St. Louis area, with one of which being in Counseling. My current state of license as a Professional Counselor is in New Jersey and have previously been licensed in Missouri and Illinois. I have had post graduate training in the areas of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. My approach has been refined over years for a person-centered focus with young to older adults struggling with multiple issues, such as depression, anxiety and addiction.

Hi, my name is Debbie. Are you struggling with anxiety, fear, depression, anger, disappointment, trauma or difficult relationships? I have worked with all ages and walks of life in my 25 years of experience. As a seasoned therapist. I believe that a successful outcome of therapy goals begins with a harmonious relationship with the client. This begins with a clear understanding of the needs and desires of the client. My approach is to have a kind, caring and sensitive demeanor, yet, direct and firm as needed to achieve success. I strive to listen well and give appropriate feedback. I attribute my successful record as a therapist to having the education, knowledge, work experience, and confidence to work with each client and consider it a privilege to work with each one. I would be honored to work with you.

We all need space to prioritize our thoughts and feelings, to say what we need to say out loud, to someone who will not judge us for how we think and feel. Oftentimes, we cannot expect the people in our lives to be impartial or unbiased. Sometimes the people in our lives are far too involved in what causes us to need this space, to process our trauma, and they might not realize why we are anxious or depressed. In the therapeutic relationship, it is all about what you want and need. I will listen and ask thoughtful questions and help you recognize patterns and make connections. Life is a journey and I want you to welcome self-exploration, not fear it.

Hello. I am Cherokee Cabell a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in NJ however can see clients in PA, MD and DE as well. With over 15 years of experience in a variety of settings I am most comfortable in an outpatient setting which has led me to found Little Bits Counseling and Therapy. My Master’s in Social Work was earned from Rutgers University in Camden NJ. I work with adults and couples 18 years of age and older with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem concerns and relationship issues become the best versions of themselves. Education is important to me, in an effort to give back and share my skills with others I am a Clinical Supervisor for LCSW students, I provide preceptorship to nursing students and offer mentorships. I am a published author of Rain To Reign, a book that explores overcoming personal struggles and finding empowerment through adversity. PLEASE NOTE: To ensure that we have ample time to discuss your needs and goals during our first session, we kindly ask that you schedule 48 hours to complete and return the necessary forms. This will allow us to review them carefully and address any concerns during our session. If this is for couples or family therapy please reach out prior to scheduling your appointment.

Me - Amy Rhoades, PhDc, MSW, LCSW, BSN, RN - I live a life of service to others. My ideal client? It's you! Whether you are 18 or 88, I want to work with you. Have childhood trauma? That is one of my specialties. People say you are hard to work with? I got you. Geriatric concerns? I can help you navigate the senior moments. As a registered nurse, I can also help you with any medical conditions/diagnoses you or a loved one may have that is causing strife in your life. Whatever you are experiencing, right here, right now, I will walk beside you in it. I am an experienced provider who thinks outside of the box and have a bit of an eclectic style. I am well versed in many treatment modalities and will work with you on finding what best fits your needs in this moment. Feel lost? I will help you find yourself. It only takes one phone call to start getting your life back in order. I care about you and what you are experiencing. Together, we will work it out. My Specialties include: Trauma and PTSD Borderline Personality Dual Diagnosis I provide treatment for: ADHD Addiction Alcohol Use Alzheimer's Anger Management Anxiety Behavioral Issues Bipolar Disorder Career Counseling Chronic Illness Chronic Relapse Codependency Coping Skills Depression Drug Abuse Geriatric Specialty Grief Hoarding Queer/Sexual/Gender/Racial/Cultural Identity Relationship Issues Self Esteem Self-Harming Spirituality Stress Substance Use Suicidal Ideation Mental Health Elderly Persons Disorders Mood Disorders Personality Disorders Psychosis Client Focus on Ages: Elders (65+) Adults Teen *Earlier or later appointments require a conversation with me*

Hi, I’m Tyisha. I’m an African American amazing Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey, and I’ve spent the last four years walking alongside individuals and families as they work through life’s challenges. Before becoming an LPC, I worked in the mental health and developmental disabilities (DDD) field for over 19 years, supporting people across Essex, Morris, Dover Township, Union, and Warren Counties. I’ve had the privilege of working with children, families, and individuals from all walks of life—each with their own story, culture, and history. My approach to therapy is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, which means I focus on the here and now, value of self, re-shaping your thinking, offering empathy, acceptance, support without judgment, and how to bring focus to your best self. I also draw from an eclectic therapeutic approach, because no two individuals are the same just familiar experiences.

Hi, Toyin is a regular person like you and she is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in New Jersey. I am awaiting my licensure as LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor). I studied Counseling Psychology(M Ed) in University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A) and Ed.S in Rider University, Lawrenceville in NJ. I have over 10 years of counseling experience and I support my adults clients in regaining their wellness through teletherapy. My clients usually enjoy the freedom to explore their concerns with me without them feeling being judged. The clients I work with have the opportunity to narrate their experiences and retell their stories while in session. I create an environment to thrive for my clients, which makes our working together on life issues become easier than they expected. Wellness begins when you connect and work with Toyin. Book your appointment now.

I am a passionate counselor licensed in New Jersey who is driven in working with individuals who have a desire to make lasting change in their lives, improve their mental health and wellness and to be the version of themselves they may not have even imaged. I have had extensive training in several evidence based treatment models such Prolonged Exposure therapy for PTSD, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. I utilize empirically supported practices to address mental health issues such as: adjustment concerns, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, impulse control, emotion dysregulation and relationship issues. ​ I am also a certified yoga teacher and utilize this knowledge of eastern philosophy, Ayurveda, meditation and mindful movement in my work with individuals, groups and even couples when appropriate.

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.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in female-centered therapy, including perinatal mental health, trauma recovery, and life transitions. I provide a supportive and empowering space for women to heal, grow, and create meaningful change. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based therapy, I help clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths. My goal is to support women in living authentically, managing stress, and finding balance in their personal and professional lives.

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

I am a female therapist with over ten years of experience. I became a therapist as I have always been drawn to helping professions. I went to Manhattanville College for two years, and then transferred to the CUNY BA Program for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies. I graduate with a degree in Social Work with Vulnerable Populations and Contemporary Global Issues. I then went to the NYU Silver School of Social Work and received a Masters in Social Work, and did the Zelda Fellowship in Palliative and End-of-life Care. For more context, my first year internship, I spent interning at Talbot Hall, a (now closed) correctional facility in NJ. In my second year, under the Fellowship, I interned at the NY and Brooklyn Veterans Hospital. I worked with Brightpoint (now Sunriver Health), then at NY Presbyterian Hospital (doing inpatient, then outpatient care), and now am in private practice. I believe it's an honor to hear about the lives of others. I am also married, and have young children. I grew up in a large family. I have grown and lived in the NY/NJ area. Some personal background: I love to write, cook, bike, swim and am a vegetarian.

With both personal and clinical experience working through depression, anxiety, PTSD, dissociation and grief, I am most passionate about working through trauma and PTSD. Having overcome complex trauma and PTSD, I believe that others can too. I know what it is like to feel desperate. I know what it's like to wake up in the morning and wish I hadn't. I know what it's like to lose hope. And I know what it's like to journey through the stages of grief and find new life. If I can find hope and laugh and love again, you can too.

Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 9 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I work with adults and teenagers who seek help with depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns. I also have experience working with those in crisis and those looking for support in tough times. I also work with clients of diverse cultural backgrounds. I am a male therapist of Asian Indian background and work with clients from various backgrounds. My style of therapy is centered around your preferences and can be tailored to meet your needs. I work with you so that you can set the agenda and goals and pace of therapy.

Hello, I am Ayanna Ferguson, a licensed child and family therapist born and raised in New York. I am inspired by the transformation I see in the lives of those who participate in therapy. Throughout my 15 plus years of experience working in clinical, educational, and health settings, I have developed an effective therapeutic style. I use the process of teaching, learning, guiding and supporting those I work with as they take steps towards growth and improve the quality of their overall health and well being.

I want to commend you for reaching out for help. I am Heidi Herrick-Lynn, a licensed therapist. I have over 20 years of experience in helping people feel unstuck and make those changes in their life that propels them forward. We will work together to develop a plan that works for you and assists you in tackling the challenges you have.

Welcome! I'm Jerniece, 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 am a Licensed Professional Counselor (NJ). I have a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University. I have over 6+ years of clinical experience working with diverse populations, including individual, single & blended parents, couples, groups, and families. Extensive experience processing within a safe and nurturing virtual setting.