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.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in New York state working with children, youth, and young adults for over 10 years. I am Black and originally from Ghana in West Africa. I am a wife and a mother of two young teenagers. I live in New York with my family. I have practiced clinical social work in various settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities/centers, and an outpatient clinic. I am also an adjunct social work professor and enjoy teaching when I am not doing clinical work. My treatment approach and types of therapy used include acceptance and commitment (ACT), attachment-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), compassion-focused, emotionally focused, exposure and response prevention, family systems, and trauma-focused therapies.
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.
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.
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.
As a therapist, I strive to meet clients exactly where they are and create a space where they feel comfortable, supported, and understood. I believe in humanizing the therapy experience—building a genuine connection free of judgment, where we can celebrate your successes, find humor when appropriate, and work through life's challenges together with compassion, hope, and a focus on growth.
Offers in-person in Northport, 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 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
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.
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.
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**
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here.
I work with adults and couples who may feel disconnected from themselves, their relationships, or the life they imagined for themselves. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling anxious, overwhelmed, lonely, or stuck in recurring patterns they can’t quite make sense of. Others are navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, questions about identity, or the emotional impact of past experiences.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens through understanding rather than judgment. I primarily work from a relational and psychodynamic perspective, exploring how past experiences, attachment relationships, and emotional patterns continue to shape the present. I also integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), attachment-based work, CBT, and trauma-informed care, helping clients not only gain insight but also develop practical ways of responding to life’s challenges.
I believe therapy is about more than reducing symptoms. It’s an opportunity to better understand yourself, make sense of your emotional world, and build deeper, more fulfilling relationships with others. Together, we’ll create a space where you can slow down, explore your experiences with curiosity, and work through life’s complexities without feeling rushed toward simple answers.
Whether you’re seeking support as an individual or as part of a couple, my goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, honesty, and respect. Therapy doesn’t require you to have everything figured out before you begin. Sometimes the hardest part is simply reaching out, and from there, we can begin making sense of what feels difficult and move toward a life that feels more connected, authentic, and meaningful.
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.
Welcome! I'm a licensed mental health counselor based in New York. I'm also a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor and Licensed Art Therapist. My practice is primarily psychodynamic while incorporating elements of cognitive and behavioral therapies as needed to assist in restructuring self-defeating patterns. My role is to travel your path with you, to create a space and relationship that is welcoming and safe.
VirtualOffers in-person in Brooklyn, NY - Accepting clients in NYAvailable
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.
Welcome,
I have been a Harvard traied psychotherapist for the past 25 years. I am a licensed clinician in 4 states (CA, NY, FL & MA) and enjoy helping clients improve their mental health and their lives. I find joy in seeing clients achieving their goals, and feeling that I made a difference in their lives. I've visited and lived in several countries, understand cultural nuances. I really enjoy to be able to be meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and participate in writing their Book of Lifel. The goal is for you to be the best version of yourself.
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.
Hi. I have been active in the field of mental health for several years, having worked with teens, children and people struggling with addictions. I also specialize in working with ADHD and helping people with struggles they have while acknowledging the strengths inherent in being neurotypical. I am an active listener but have several tools at my disposal that are known to be effective in coping with these sorts of issues.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have provided counseling services to children and adolescents for the past 25 years in a school and outpatient setting. I love working with this population. I have experience addressing issues related to ADHD, divorce, depression, anxiety, autism and social skills. I work hard to ensure that each child/adolescent that I see feels understood and supported. I work to empower my clients to feel success and pride in their accomplishments.
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, stress, life transitions, women’s issues, and other emotional challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care. As a Certified Autism Specialist, I provide individualized support to autistic individuals through a strengths-based approach tailored to each person’s unique experiences and needs. My background includes work across outpatient mental health, behavioral health, and substance use treatment settings, including clinical leadership roles that strengthened my expertise in comprehensive assessment and treatment planning. I earned my Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from State University of New York at New Paltz, and I remain committed to ongoing professional development to provide thoughtful, effective care.
Therapy itself is really a story—a journey of understanding, growth, and change.
As a Latina therapist, I understand how culture, family, and life experiences can shape who we are—sometimes in beautiful ways, and sometimes in ways that feel heavy or overwhelming. I work with individuals who are navigating anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions, or who simply feel stuck and want something to change.
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and real. I’ll meet you where you are, without judgment. In our sessions, you can expect a space where you can be yourself fully—whether that means talking things through, processing emotions, or even laughing a little along the way. I use approaches like CBT, mindfulness, and strengths-based therapy, but most importantly, I focus on what actually works for you.
I especially connect with clients who may feel pressure to “have it all together,” who are used to being strong for everyone else, or who are trying to balance different parts of their identity. Together, we’ll work on setting boundaries, understanding your patterns, and helping you feel more grounded and confident in your 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.
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.
Im a Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker and with 8 years of experience. I utilize a person centered empowering and encouraging approach to my therapy sessions with warmth and humor, because let’s face it - life sometimes be life-ing. Im an NYU graduate with years of experience helping individuals across the life span and the oh an array of different mental health conditions.
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.
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’m Brittany, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor focused on perinatal and postpartum mental health. I help women navigate postpartum anxiety, mood changes, relationship stress, and the pressure to “hold it all together.” Therapy with me is a space where you can speak openly about what you’re really feeling—without judgment, guilt, or the expectation that you should be handling everything perfectly.
Hello, I’m Yesenia Vazquez, LMHC. I believe that effective therapy starts with meeting you where you are. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, or difficult life changes, offering sessions in both English and Spanish. I blend the structure of CBT and DBT with a compassionate, client-centered approach to help manage behavioral issues and emotional stress. My goal is simple: to partner with you and help you build the life you want to live.
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
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.
I'm Celina Patterson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with five years of experience helping clients move through trauma, anxiety, and depression. I want you to know that whatever brings you here, you won't be met with judgment—only warmth, patience, and a genuine belief in your ability to heal.
My approach is strengths-based, which means I'll be looking for your resilience and your capacity for growth, even when you can't fully see it in yourself yet. We'll move at your pace, together—there's no pressure here, only space for you to feel truly seen.
I specialize in supporting people through trauma, anxiety, and depression, using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Play Therapy. But more than any technique, what I bring to our work is care—a deep commitment to helping you build insight, develop tools that actually work for your life, and move toward healing that lasts.
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.
Feeling stuck, anxious, or weighed down by life’s challenges can be overwhelming, and you don’t have to face it alone. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or major life changes and are looking for relief, clarity, and a greater sense of balance. My goal is to offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and accepted as you are. Together, we focus on understanding what’s been holding you back and building practical tools to help you feel calmer, more confident, and more like yourself again.
Hello, my name is Nicole. I have ten years' experience working as a therapist. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or possibly having difficulty adjusting to life stressors or changes, I am here to empower, support, and work with you as you navigate these issues. I will create a safe space for you to feel comfortable in sharing your concerns.
I do utilize an evidence-based intervention known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support client's in achieving mental well-being.
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 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.
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’m a licensed clinical social worker who works with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, especially when you’re trying to manage everything on your own.
My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to your needs. I aim to create a space where you can slow down, better understand what you’re going through, and begin to make meaningful, lasting changes at a pace that feels right for you.
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide compassionate and collaborative therapy for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance, working together with empathy, trust and mutual understanding to address life's challenges and emotional setbacks. I offer a flexible telehealth schedule to provide you with the connivence you need to fit your mental health into your busy life.
I'm Valarie. If you are looking for a safe space to be your full, authentic self, this is it. I combine clinical experience with a warm approach. Therapy with me isn’t about rigid clinical detachment; it is a dynamic, collaborative partnership. I provide a non-judgmental environment, grounded in empathy, ensuring you always feel truly seen, heard, and respected.
My commitment is to be an unwavering, supportive ally who listens actively and values cultural humility. At the same time, I will gently but firmly challenge you to expand your capacity, confront old patterns, and step into your full potential. Together, we will navigate the obstacles and celebrate the breakthroughs. Let’s do the work, together!
I've tried to live my life by the word "YES", which I wrote on the rear of my VW van in the 70's. As I've aged this has shown me the way through many difficulties. I studied Psychology in the 70's, eventually leaving doctoral work to open a Stained Glass studio and eventually obtained a second MA degree in Social Work. leading to my work here. Along the way I've garnered many different paths of therapeutic work and learned how to use them to fit the clients I work with.
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 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.
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 am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping individuals heal, grow, and reconnect with a sense of purpose and peace. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions by using a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and faith-based approaches when desired. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered to build healthier patterns, strengthen your sense of self, and move forward with confidence.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, burnt out, or like you’re trying to keep it together for everyone else? Maybe your mind won’t slow down, your relationships feel draining, or you’re just tired of carrying everything on your own. Whatever it is that you’re navigating, you don’t have to go through it by yourself. I provide a supportive, warm, and nonjudgmental space where you can show up fully as yourself. My approach combines Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), blending empathy and connection with practical tools to help you better understand your thoughts, emotions, and behavioral patterns.
I am a Bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State who sees clients from all walks of life; I speak English and Spanish . My clients range from Teens (13 years old) to senior citizens. I provide individual and family, and couple-based therapy to people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. I treat a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, stress-related disorders, social anxiety, grief, ADHD (teens/young adults only), and behavioral and emotional disorders (teens only) using therapy techniques and models such as Behavioral Therapy, CBT, TCBT, DBT, Family Systems, MI, Stages of Change, Strengths-based
My main goal in this field is to provide people with the tools they need to advocate and make improvements for themselves . I enjoy assisting clients in identifying their goals by utilizing their strengths. I like to assist my clients in overcoming life challenges by motivating and encouraging them. I truly believe each individual deserve to be heard and valued.
Hi, I’m Jennifer, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a warm, grounding space where you can slow down, reconnect with yourself, and find clarity amid life’s challenges. I help adults work through anxiety, trauma, circular thinking, and overwhelming life transitions using an integrative approach that blends solution-focused strategies with somatic and mindfulness practices.
My style is gentle but practical — we’ll focus on what’s working, identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and build sustainable steps toward balance and self-trust. Therapy with me is a collaborative process centered around your goals, your pace, and your growth.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who enjoys helping people who feel lonely, overwhelmed, and often misunderstood. I am interested in listening to your worries, concerns and self doubts. Together we can craft a joint plan toward identifying and using inner strengths to build positive ways to cope with life's challenges. I would love to meet you and get you started feeling better.