My name is Brittany DeBell and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who blends evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness and nervous-system-based tools. I help adults navigate anxiety, stress, and life transitions with clarity and compassion. My goal is to help you understand your patterns, build emotional balance, and feel more grounded in your daily life.
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.
Hello, my name is Kristine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based on Long Island. Since graduating from Fordham University in 2008, I have worked with a variety of populations in different clinical settings, supporting individuals through many of life’s challenges.
In my current full-time role, I provide support to patients and families in hospice care, helping them navigate end-of-life experiences with compassion and empathy. I bring that same supportive approach to my private practice, where I strive to create a safe space for clients to process, heal, and grow. Everyone’s journey is unique, and I am here to help guide and support you along the way.
My name is Tatiana, and I’m glad you’ve taken this brave step toward support. Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, and it’s normal to feel anxious or unsure in the beginning. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience working with a diverse range of clients, including those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. I take a client-centered approach, believing therapy should focus on what feels most important and comfortable for you. I tailor each session to your unique needs and goals.
I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. CBT helps identify and challenge unhelpful or intrusive thoughts, allowing for healthier, more balanced thinking—especially helpful for anxiety. A solution-focused approach emphasizes strengths and views challenges as manageable and solvable. When working with substance use concerns, I utilize motivational interviewing to foster motivation, insight, and meaningful change. Mindfulness techniques support grounding, present-moment awareness, and relaxation.
Together, we will build coping skills, increase self-awareness, and strengthen your ability to manage life’s challenges. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I am here to support you as you work toward emotional balance, self-confidence, and a more fulfilling life.
Hi, I'm Grisel Maisonet, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress, and self-esteem concerns. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we'll identify your strengths, develop practical coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for support and personal growth, I'm here to help you take the next step toward healing and living a more balanced, fulfilling life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with diagnostic privilege dedicated to helping clients navigate their challenges and discover their strengths. My approach is both compassionate and direct, providing a supportive atmosphere where you can work towards personal growth.
I specialize in a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, offering individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I utilize evidence-based and mindfulness techniques tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking to enhance communication and understanding in your relationship or working through personal challenges, therapy can be a source of support.
Hi, I’m Nancy Valdes, LCSW. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist with 15 years of experience. I love helping adults navigate anxiety, trauma, depression and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe space where you can show up fully, trust yourself again and move toward meaningful lasting change. If you're ready to begin that journey, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.
I am Gordon Shearer an LCSW located in NY and have been a psychotherapist for 10 years. I love my work and enjoy meeting and working with individuals who are interested and committed to making their lives better in some meaningful way. I believe support is crucial to developing the therapeutic relationship and want to do best for my clients.
Hello, I’m Xiangru (Ruby) Meng, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with dual licensure in both New York and New Jersey.
For the past eight years, I've had the privilege of partnering with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate the complex currents of life. My experience has shown me that everyone, at some point, faces challenges that can feel overwhelming, whether it's the persistent hum of anxiety, the weight of depression, the complexities of relationships, or the uncertainty of major life transitions. My role is to walk alongside you through these ups and downs, offering support that is not only professional but also deeply compassionate, down-to-earth, and tailored specifically to you.
My therapeutic approach is built on the belief that you are the expert of your own life. I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental environment where you feel safe to explore your thoughts and feelings.
Beyond my professional work, my personal passions deeply inform my practice. Yoga reminds me of the crucial mind-body connection, while rock climbing has taught me about resilience and how to break down overwhelming challenges into manageable steps. As a knitter and a dog mom, I’m also reminded daily of the value of patience and the healing power of unconditional connection.
Whether you are seeking to heal, build healthier relationships, or simply find a clearer path forward, I am here to support you. My goal is to help you navigate your current challenges while equipping you with the insight and tools to build a more resilient and meaningful life.
I look forward to the possibility of connecting with you!
Hello, my name is Luke. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York. I have been practicing therapy for over 3 years now and have attained significant experience in areas pertaining to depression, anxiety, and much more. My primary approaches to therapy pertaining to cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy. I believe that the therapeutic alliance of goals, tasks, and bonds is crucial to the outcome of anyone I work with. My approach emphasizes empathy, compassion, and insight to help my clients better understand the root of their problems as well as how to challenge themselves.
What drew me to this path was being able to help people see that they carry the strength and resilience for resolutions on their own. Much of what people may need is some guidance and support through their healing journeys.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. Together, we'll identify challenges and work on strategies to help you move forward with confidence.
I offer a calm, supportive space for people working through trauma, anxiety, and depression. My style is warm, steady, and grounded in helping you understand what you’re carrying and why it feels so heavy. Together, we slow things down, make sense of your patterns, and build tools that help you feel more in control of your life.
My approach blends trauma‑informed care, CBT, and motivational interviewing. I help you notice the thoughts and beliefs that shape your emotions, explore where they come from, and practice new ways of responding that feel more compassionate and sustainable. You won’t be pushed or judged just met with curiosity, clarity, and respect for your pace.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself, therapy with me is a place to feel seen and supported while you rebuild your footing. My goal is to help you move toward steadiness, self‑trust, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are and who you’re becoming.
I have been providing Psychotherapy for over ten years at a community outpatient mental health clinic working in a multicultural environment. My experience encorporates treating clients with all types of mental health disorders especializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, health and weight issues. I incorporate an eclectic model approach using techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavior theory, client centered, crisis interventions, and trauma focused.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with individuals and couples seeking counseling for over 9 years, both online and in private practice.
It is my pleasure to have the privilege of working with you. In providing psychotherapy my goal is to support and empower Clients to resolve concerns/challenges and to gain skills to use going forward. I offer a confidential and safe space where you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns which may include feelings of anxiety or depression or feeling stuck and unsure as to how you can move forward.
I value the privilege of hearing how your personal journey has impacted you and how you are endorsing your own efforts to deal with any life adversity.
I seek a genuine, empathetic, & trauma informed narrative approach to helping people who may experience barriers relating to depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD.
I believe in asking open value based questions that may nurture your self awareness & help clarify your most meaningful intentions for personal change. I integrate treatment modalities of narrative therapy, solution based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Seeking therapy takes courage, and finding the right therapist is an important first step. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I provide a warm, supportive, and person-centered environment where you can feel heard, understood, and respected. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, professional burnout, and career-related challenges. I also support clients navigating LGBTQ+ and women's issues. Together, we'll explore what's holding you back, build on your strengths, and develop practical strategies that help you move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
My path into this work is deeply personal. I grew up witnessing how mental health challenges can be misunderstood and stigmatized, and how a lack of access to quality care can prolong suffering. That experience shaped my commitment to creating a space where clients feel seen, understood, and supported without judgment.
I approach therapy with a focus on understanding how past experiences inform present patterns, while helping clients navigate emotional distress in more manageable and empowering ways. My background includes work in a mental health clinic providing individual, child, and family counseling, as well as crisis support through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, where I developed skills in supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments.
I am trained in evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and trauma-focused therapy, and I integrate these approaches to support meaningful, lasting change
I am a therapist with 12 years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings, supporting individuals through anxiety, mood disorders, and other life challenges. My personal experience with anxiety and therapy gives me a deeper understanding of the courage it takes to seek support and make meaningful changes. I am committed to providing compassionate, collaborative care grounded in authenticity, respect, and a strong dedication to social justice and inclusive mental health treatment.
Everyone needs help and it's OK to not be OK. I specialize in life transitions/new life roles, relationships, family issues, boundaries, parenting, and any stressors in your world. I provide a caring and safe place to talk through your concerns, challenges and barriers. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self esteem issues, relationships, LGBQT, and mood disorders. I always emphasis the importance of self-care and will help you develop personal methods.
**I take insurances outside of Grow Therapy's insurances**
Hi, I'm Key Hammonds, LCSW and yes, I'm the therapist who will make you laugh and help you breakthrough in the same session.
I'm a NYC native, a mom, a community member, and a Licensed Clinician with over 18 years of experience. I earned my Master's in Social Work from NYU, but honestly some of my most important education has come from living life, navigating motherhood, doing my own healing work and overcoming adversity. This taught me resilience isn't just a buzzword, it's a practice. I practice what I preach. I believe deeply in therapy not as a last resort, but as an everyday act of self-care and courage. I will show up for you with honesty, humor, warmth, and zero judgment.
I’m Jemila McPhee, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and self-critical thinking patterns. Together, we’ll explore what’s underneath the overwhelm, calm the mental chatter, and build tools that feel authentic and doable. Every session is tailored to meet your unique needs, so together we can move you toward clarity, confidence, and peace.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York and Connecticut, providing psychotherapy to adults aged 18 and older, in person in Pleasantville NY, or through telehealth. I work with individuals who are motivated to make a change in their life, who seek help to reduce their depression, anxiety or stress; this includes individuals navigating any sort of life transition that is having an impact on their daily functioning, mood or emotional stability. Using a person-centered and collaborative approach, we would work to identify your individual needs, values, and how to practice self care while experiencing whatever circumstances life brings. I believe that therapy is most effective when it is a partnership—one where we work together to identify goals, explore challenges, and build on existing strengths.
Offers in-person in Pleasantville, NY - Accepting clients in NYAvailable
As an experienced therapist, I can help you with problems related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, creative blocks and work stress. My approach helps you to break free from destructive cycles, heal deep emotional wounds and building healthier more fulfilling ways of living.
My work with individuals from especially challenging populations has helped me to create a client - centered approach.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in trauma-informed, attachment-focused care for individuals. I support clients who feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in survival mode, or impacted by past experiences that still show up in their daily lives. I help people understand how their history shapes their thoughts, behaviors, and relationships, and guide them in building healthier, more secure connections with themselves and others.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply client-centered. I believe therapy should feel safe, respectful, and empowering. I combine emotional insight with practical, evidence-based tools so clients can make real changes in how they regulate emotions, set boundaries, and show up in their lives. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected, not just during sessions, but in your everyday life.
I am not a young therapist. I have learned a great deal through my life experiences which enable me to empathize with the issues that are bothering my clients. This is my second career. I went back to school later in life and received my degree in mental health counseling. My greatest satisfaction comes from my helping my clients make their lives better.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping adults move through anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and the stressful transitions that life can bring. Clients often tell me I’m warm, honest, and easy to talk to, but also straightforward and challenging in a way that helps them make real change and experience growth. I don’t sit back and nod; I’m actively engaged in the process with you.
My work combines deep emotional insight with practical tools you can use in everyday life. I draw from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy, and tailor my approach to what works best for you as a person, not following a generic formula. My goal is to help you feel understood, supported, and capable of change and growth. You don’t have to carry everything on your own, and therapy is a place where you can share, breathe, make sense of things, and start feeling more in control again.
My name is Diana Pacheco, LCSW, and I am a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping adults reduce stress, improve relationships, and manage the challenges of anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. My clinical approach combines CBT, ACT, and IPT with psychodynamic principles to create a structured yet supportive therapy process. Clients can expect a balance of empathy, practical strategies, and clinical expertise designed to help them make measurable progress and long-term changes.
Welcome! I’m passionate about making therapy a safe space for you to explore your challenges, uncover your strengths and find actionable strategies that work best for you. I take a collaborative, supportive and relatable approach to ensure therapy feels like a comfortable place for you to share your story and grow. I strive to empower you towards self-acceptance, help you manage your emotions effectively and build resilience. I understand that each individual’s journey is unique; therefore, each client’s therapeutic care is tailored to meet them where they are at.
You may be going through big changes in life, fatherhood-motherhood, new marriage, professional challenges, or facing illness, getting older, losing people close to you, moving to a new place, starting over after divorce, or adjusting after a breakup or a change in your military life. These experiences can make anyone wonder who they are, how they relate to others, how they make decisions, and how they deal with grief, change, and conflict.
Life keeps giving me chances to adjust to changes in my body, feelings, thoughts, and spirit. Some days are easier than others, and that’s just part of being human. I see it as a way to keep getting stronger, more flexible, and better at handling life.When my emotions feel really strong, I may feel pulled in different directions. But reaching out, connecting with someone, and taking action usually helps me stay resilient and keep moving forward.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York. I received my Masters from Fordham University, and postgraduate training in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) from the Albert Ellis Institute. I have been practicing as a therapist for 10 years. I help clients achieve their goals by working towards emotional and behavioral change by examining and challenging irrational and unhelpful beliefs.
MY passion for helping others has shaped my work as a mental health professional and guided the creation of Looking Within Mental Health Counseling PLLC. My philosophy centers on the belief that with understanding and insight, individuals can reconnect with inner peace and rediscover joy. Carla is dedicated to walking alongside clients as they explore the root causes of emotional and mental health challenges, offering steady support throughout the healing and self-discovery process.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here to support you on your journey. I work with adults tackling relationship issues by understanding more about your attachment style and how that plays a role in forming healthy relationships. I work with individuals with a history of trauma, anxiety and depression. I use evidence-based techniques, such as EMDR and CBT, to help manage symptoms, find freedom and support healing.
I will let people with whom I worked over the years tell you about me: "Joel focuses on the issues at hand, because he listens very intently. Doesn't get into any psychobabble and provides clear insight to moving forward. Joel encouraged positive takeaways from all sessions." "He s attentive, professional, personable, and kind." "We were able as a family to have Joel's ear as an outside observer. He could extract the most important take away from all that we were working on together and put them into concrete terms. It helped bring clarity and structure to all the things we were trying to do. Having appointments with Joel also helped us to be accountable for the work. Therapy is work. We have to consciously make changes to see the improvements... Joel helped us to stay accountable. " When I came to see Joel I was in a bad place - personally and professionally. I was dealing with unresolved grief and that was impacting my habits and behaviors. After a few short sessions with Joel I started the road back to being the person who I believe myself to be. It has been about 6 months since my first session with Joel - I am now working a good job, I have returned to a hobby that I love and I just completed my first semester of a degree program towards a more rewarding profession (and earned a 4.0 GPA!). Joel helped me realize that I had the ability to determine my own course in life and helped me develop positive habits to achieve my goals." If you want to know more you can visit www.0to10.net.
VirtualOffers in-person in Walden, NY - Accepting clients in NYAvailable
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, I combine a strong clinical foundation and certification in life coaching to bring real-world tools into the therapeutic model. I specialize in supporting clients who are navigating anxiety, depression, chronic illness, major life transitions, and challenging family dynamics including foster care and adoption. My style is compassionate and collaborative creating a safe space to feel supported.
VirtualOffers in-person in Geneseo, NY - Accepting clients in NYAvailable
I am an enthusiastic and well-organized professional with over fourteen years of demonstrated competence in providing comprehensive mental health and Behavioral Health therapy to
patients experiencing difficulties in matters of functioning to their
fullest capacities. I have a proven
record of successful clinical
interventions. I am focused on creating rapport with my patients
so that treatment can be facilitated leading to successful outcomes. I utilize several treatment methodologies including psycho dynamic therapy, behavioral therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, humanistic therapy as well as integrative/holistic therapy to name but a few. I work with individuals ranging from 18 to 90 years old. My main focus is on treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management as well as anti-social disorders and substance use issues to name but a few; also, areas of treatment are personality disorders .
I offer virtual sessions via Growtherapy.com/platform.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York State and have provided mental health counseling for over 38 years to people of all ages. I worked as a school counselor for 32 years at the Kenton UFSD, a suburban school district just north of Buffalo, NY. I also provide family and couples counseling at the KenTon Family Support Center.
Many people feel stuck at times but do not know how to make changes to allow them to enjoy their lives to the fullest. My approach to counseling incorporates a few styles of therapy to help clients clarify goals, understand their own behaviors and self-talk, and take charge of their future. Clinical areas of treatment include anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationships, stress management, conflict resolution, work and career issues, grief & loss, and anger management. I strongly believe in the dignity and worth of people and am dedicated to helping people find a productive healthy path.
I am an LMHC-D and a Master CASAC (credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselor) in New York State. I have over 20 years of experience working in education, social services, government, and nonprofit management. I have practiced in schools, chemical dependency programs, and outpatient mental health clinics, providing services to people from all walks of life. My experience across disciplines in the realm of human services has left me well-versed in my ability to tackle many of the challenges facing my clients.
For 11 years, I have sat with people at some of the hardest moments of their lives, from medical crises to the quieter weight of anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship strain. I bring a collaborative, nonjudgmental presence because the best work happens when you feel genuinely heard. If you are ready to start and want change. I would love to meet you.
Hi! I'm Joan Schifaudo, Licensed Clinical Social (LCSW). I graduated from Fordham University in 2002 and had so many wonderful experiences in this helping profession and I want to share them with you! I am both a listener and problem solver with help from you, the client. I use Gestalt and CBT primarily as treatment methods, but I'm not adverse as to what YOU would like to introduce to the sessions so we can create your treatment goals together!
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical experience helping individuals navigate a wide range of mental health concerns. I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences and strive to provide care that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and respectful of each person's unique identity, values, and perspective. I am committed to creating a supportive environment where you will feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change.
provide a practical, goal-oriented approach to therapy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients better understand and change unhelpful thought and behavior patterns. I work with individuals experiencing challenges such as Anxiety disorder, Depression, and stress, supporting them in building effective coping skills and confidence. My style is collaborative, supportive, and focused on helping you make meaningful, lasting changes in your daily life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about supporting individuals navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional distress. I specialize in working with clients healing from trauma, including intimate partner violence, as well as those struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, and grief. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and heard. I understand that healing is not linear, and I meet each client where they are. Together, we work to build insight, strengthen coping skills, and reconnect you with your sense of self, confidence, and overall emotional well-being.
As a licensed psychologist I provide compassionate, supportive, and effective therapy to Black women that is tailored to each client based on their individual goals. I have an understanding of the unique and dynamic experiences of Black women in the world and their needs and goals. I am an attuned listener who provides therapy in a compassionate and empowering manner. Website LovelyPsychology.com.
Hello! My name is Eleanor, but I prefer to be called Lana. I am a Navy Veteran and a licensed Mental Health Counselor with a dual Master's in Psychology. I have my Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) Certification. I have extensive experience providing therapy to individuals, children, adolescents, groups, and occasionally couples in various settings. I have assisted individuals who have experienced abuse, symptoms of depression and anxiety, OCD symptoms, loss/bereavement, addiction, suicidal behaviors, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, difficulty regulating emotions, and problematic coping skills. It would be an honor to work with you.
Hello, I'm Diana, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, support, and practical tools for change. I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, adjustment to medical diagnoses, relationship concerns, and communication difficulties. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, incorporating evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and create meaningful, lasting change. I strive to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their personal growth.
My life experiences have taught me the value of presence, resilience, and genuine human connection, and these qualities shape who I am as a therapist. I bring a calm, steady, and compassionate personality to my work, creating a space where clients feel seen, respected, and supported. My approach is person‑centered, collaborative, and grounded in empathy, helping clients slow down, reconnect with themselves, and navigate challenges with clarity. I especially enjoy working with adults seeking balance, meaning, and growth during life transitions.
My communication style is calm, direct and caring. I try to be non-judgmental. I support my patients and want them to feel better through therapy as well as in all aspects of their personal and professional lives. Through the use of CBT, it promotes the setting of goals, which we develop together and review and modify periodically as progress is made.
I am a 40 year old native of central/upstate NY- right outside of Rochester. I am a mom to a 3.5 year old daughter which is where my time and energy is spent outside of being a Therapist. I mostly enjoy traveling, watching documentaries, cooking/baking, and learning about German culture. I find myself very easy-going, down to earth and have a huge passion for helping others!
I am Lorena Amador, a licensed mental health counselor who prioritizes walking alongside my clients as individuals, beyond any specific diagnosis. With extensive experience guiding clients toward their goals, my practice is built on a compassionate, person-centered foundation. As an eclectic therapist, i integrate evidence-based tools like CBT, DBT, and ACT to help you manage complex emotions and build psichological flexibility. Also, specializing in grief therapy, I provide a safe space for healing. Let's work together toward a more resilient , meaningful life.
Hi, I’m Amanda Sifonte, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to supporting teens, adults, and older adults as they navigate the complexities of life. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic stress, a significant life transition, grief, or managing a chronic condition, I’m here to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and respect. I believe that healing begins in a safe and nonjudgmental space—one where you can express yourself freely, explore your story, and feel understood.