Therapists in New York

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing a warm, affirming, and collaborative space where clients can explore life's challenges with curiosity and compassion. I work with adults and couples navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, life transitions, burnout, stress, self-esteem, and emotional overwhelm. I am especially passionate about supporting individuals who are healing from difficult life experiences, strengthening their relationships, and learning to live more authentically. My therapeutic approach is holistic, trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and tailored to each client's unique experiences and goals. I integrate evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, psychodynamic principles, and somatic awareness to help clients develop practical coping skills, deepen self-awareness, and create lasting change. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted while also being supported to challenge patterns that no longer serve you. Together, we'll build on your strengths, cultivate resilience and self-compassion, and develop the tools needed to navigate life's challenges with greater confidence, balance, and emotional well-being.

Hello!!! I'm a Christian Psychotherapist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Miami, Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida International University in 2002 and have been practicing for 6 years. I assist young adults struggling with life choices, couples with relationship issues, family unit to function correctly, single parent with parenting skills all with biblically values. Individuals that suffer from anxiety, depression, or low motivation for the things that create a rich and meaningful life.

I have been working with adults for approximately 15 years. On the first visit, my job is to listen to your description of what is going on in your life. What are the stressors, what are the protective factors? Also, what are your strengths and challenges? We then collaborate on what it is that you want to change. We look at behavior/thinking,feeling patterns that may get in the way of a better quality of life. I come from a place of I'm okay and you're okay, meaning that we both have value and mutual respect.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (New York), Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (Delaware), a National Certified Counselor, a Board Certified Professional Counselor, Trauma Informed Care Counselor, EMDR Certified Practitioner, and a Licensed Behavior Specialist. My treatment modalities are behavioral, humanistic, interpersonal, eclectic, and psychodynamic. I see clients in person in Pennsylvania and virtually in New York and Delaware.

My name is Maria. I have been practicing therapy for 21 years. I have worked in a variety of settings such as, a hospital emergency room seeing individuals struggling with mental health issues. I have also work with children and adults. I feel privileged to have you allow me into your life and share your experiences and struggles with me.

Hi! I'm Linda! I am a licensed clinical social worker based in New York State. I believe strongly that life is not about your problems, but how you solve them. I have been a bilingual social worker for 15 years, I've also mentored and taught social work students. I've worked with diverse cultures and communities, with generations of family to heal and make positive changes in their futures. I love helping people develop healthy connections. You can feel comfortable being alone, and, feel comfortable with others. My personal experience with ADD, women's health issues, caregiving issues, families dealing with cancer, parenting issues, being a suicide witness, has helped me use these skills to help and guide others.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York. I received my master's from the Springfield College and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, general struggles of work, school, being a caregiver, dealing with the strains of chronic illness. I also work with those grieving the loss of a loved one in handling their grief.

I am a licensed clinical social worker. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where I majored in Forensic Psychology. I obtained a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the NYU Silver School of Social Work. In addition to my clinical practice, I am an active artist. My artistic journey has included studies at The Natural Academy of Design and The New York School of the Arts. I am also a life member of The Art Students League of New York, reflecting my long-standing dedication to the creative arts.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker and ADHD clinical service provider with over 15 years of experience in individual and group counseling. This work is personal. I know firsthand what it means to spend years trying to understand why you don’t fit the mold.I help people finally name what’s been happening and find a way forward that actually fits their life.

Hi I am Angela, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and have worked with many people who have had to walk through many of life’s challenges or are just in need of extra support. Life can be challenging at times with personal issues such as job loss, family conflict, anxiety about current life situations, and maybe even just needing/wanting someone to talk to and process things with. We all have friends, but a neutral person could be beneficial too. I have experience personally and professionally with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, emotion regulation, and dealing with vocational stress, trauma, and just overall looking for ways to manage life in general. I would love to be able to work with you in being able to learn new coping strategies (or refreshing old ones and ones you didn’t know you had).

Hi I'm Laura, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience supporting individuals through crisis, trauma, and major life stressors. I specialize in working with first responders and those impacted by high-stress environments, offering a calm, collaborative, and practical approach to therapy. My goal is to help clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to move forward. My approach is practical, compassionate, and down-to-earth. I’ll meet you with empathy and honesty, offering support without judgment. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and help you reconnect with your true self.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC-D) and CASAC with experience working with adults and adolescents in outpatient and private practice settings. I support clients who may be struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, substance use, ADHD, personality disorders, and life stressors. My goal is to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable exploring their challenges while developing practical skills for growth and lasting change.

My name is Sandy Baker, I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I enjoy empowering my clients to cultivate the tools they need to produce a healthier self. I work with different ethnicities, backgrounds, genders. My experience and background guides me to provide the clients a safe space to learn about their mental health, symptoms, triggers and goal-setting. Together we will work to address the changes in life using approaches and techniques that help address each member's challenges so that they can take effective control of their lives.

Seeking strength, understanding, and a clear path forward? I'm not your typical therapist. As a former Marine and law enforcement officer, I know firsthand the pressures and high-stakes demands of service. Grounded in my Christian faith, I leverage that lived experience and clinical expertise to help you navigate trauma, anxiety, and life's toughest transitions.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals process and resolve distressing memories and experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or alternating tapping, to support the brain’s natural healing process. EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic or overwhelming experiences while strengthening more adaptive beliefs about oneself. This structured approach is effective for trauma, anxiety, depression, and other stress-related concerns, allowing clients to experience relief without needing to repeatedly relive the event in detail.

I consider myself a direct and collaborative therapist. My style centers on active listening, practical tools you can use to cope outside of sessions, and respect for your personal story. I will always come from a place of open mindedness while providing honest feedback and compassionate guidance. My goal is to create a space in which you feel understood and comfortable enough to be honest.

I have over 25 years experience as a licensed mental health counselor and substance use working with individuals of all ages. I provide a safe, non judgmental environment. I support individuals by allowing you to gain insight, recognize, and utilize your own abilities to reach your goals. I currently work with adults. Together we can identify what is working and not working and get you back to feeling like yourself! Seeking therapy can be scary but you’re making the right decision. If you would like to contact the intake team, call 786-244-7711 or email reception+Lori-Ann8046@growtherapy.com.

Hey my love, I'm Laura -- welcome to Audacious Healing! As a Black, queer, neurodivergent, femme-presenting therapist, I bring refreshing honesty to a space that's actually built for you to let your hair down. No performing, no pretending — just real talk, empowerment, and the motivation to keep going. I've spent over a decade as a trauma therapist--working with teens, young adults, parents and families who don't always see themselves reflected in traditional therapy spaces. Specialities include: Trauma CBT, Somatic Healing, EMDR, Identity Work, LGBTQIA+, Black Culture, Confidence and Empowerment work, and much more! If you're ready for a space where you can show up fully as yourself, book a free intro call to see if we are a good fit for you!

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.

Hi. I am a licensed mental health counselor who is very empathic, being non-judgment, genuine, using such therapeutic style and approach, to helping you make the growth deemed essential, that you can make positive changes in your life, that you can emerge a life full of happiness, laughter, beauty, and positive, new meaning. In addition to the clinical, therapeutic techniques that I use in my therapeutic relationship with my clients, I also like to incorporate mindfulness meditation practice, helping you to being more present, living in the moment, focusing on positive thoughts, the here and now moment, letting go of any negative, intrusive thoughts, but appreciating your present moment, to alleviating the anxiety, the depression, and other problems affecting your mental health and well-being.

My name is Sherry Ackerman, LCSW and I am a licensed clinical social worker in New York with over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have extensive experience working with children, adult and teens with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, school/career challenges, Autism and ADHD. I also have helped many adults who have experienced trauma and/or abuse and relationship/ career issues.

Akiva Garellek focuses on meeting his clients where they are. Working together with his clients and meeting their needs is of the utmost importance. He uses evidence-based models, such as CBT and DBT, in his practice. Even more importantly, he offers a great deal of empathy and will take on your problems and attack them as if they are his own. Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to get into a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. This interest led me to study psychology and mental health, ultimately leading me to a rewarding career in helping people. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the greater New York &  South Florida area, I am committed to the well-being of all my clients and go above and beyond to cater to their needs. I truly care for all of my clients and work diligently to help find them the answers they seek. Since 2016, I have worked with a variety of clients dealing with circumstances that are unique to their lives, which led me down the path of specializing in working with children utilizing play therapy. 

Takira Victorin is a warm, non-judgmental psychotherapist who works collaboratively with clients to strengthen communication, nurture emotional intimacy, and regain a sense of emotional balance. She helps individuals and couples break free from painful, repetitive patterns by building greater self-awareness, emotional insight, and clarity around needs and boundaries. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles, her approach is compassionate and practical, focused on helping you create healthier, more fulfilling connections with yourself and others.

Hi, I'm Alisa! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I specialize in treating interpersonal concerns and have helped people adjust to life changes, decrease anxiety, and alleviate depression. Working with me, you will find our therapy sessions will be a safe place to be authentic and vulnerable. I aim to utilize appropriate interventions to help you achieve your goal from evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based, and Psychodynamic. I cater my approach to each of my client’s individual needs.

Hi and Bienvenido! Therapy is about having a space where you can feel heard and supported without judgement. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work through life's challenges-whether that's grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, or major transitions. I believe it is important to be encouraging and supporting during the client's stage of life and helping build practical tools for change.

Hello, and welcome. I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to seek support. You deserve a space where you do not have to carry everything on your own. My goal is to provide compassionate, person-centered therapy grounded in genuine human connection. I work with teenagers, young adults, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, burnout, grief, chronic illness, substance use concerns, and major life transitions. I believe healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and understood. Together, we will explore the challenges you are facing while building on the strengths and resilience you already possess. My approach is collaborative, relational, and tailored to your individual needs. I integrate evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, recognizing the connection between emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Whether you are looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, support through a difficult life change, or a deeper understanding of yourself, I am here to help you move toward greater balance, wellness, and personal growth.

Hey there, my name is Shakirah. Are you struggling with finding your passion or purpose? Have you realized that what you thought you wanted has changed? What about trying to keep it together during these challenging times? I have been providing therapy to adults struggling with stress management, low motivation, and self-esteem issues for the past 10 years. I help others change maladaptive habits like negative self-talk, procrastination, and inconsistency. These times are uniquely challenging and everyone could use some support. Using evidence-based interventions like CBT, Acceptance Therapy and mindfulness as well as implementing healthy boundaries and self-care, I can help you reach your goals and find more enjoyment in your day-to-day. I am inclusive and LGBTQ-affirming. There is no better time to start than NOW.

My ideal clients are adults who are looking for support, guidance, to work through life’s challenges. They may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or challenges related to substance use. My ideal clients are people who are ready to better understand themselves, explore what may be getting in the way, and take steps toward feeling more balanced and fulfilled.

I am a licensed clinical social worker providing therapy to adolescents and adults navigating emotional, developmental, and life-transition challenges. My clinical approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative, with a focus on helping clients build emotional regulation skills, strengthen self-identity, and improve relationships. I support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, family conflict, and adjustment difficulties, while creating a safe and nonjudgmental space for them to explore their thoughts and emotions. My goal is to help young people develop insight, resilience, and practical coping strategies that support long-term growth and stability.

Hi, I’m Marlene, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and licensed in both Florida and New York. I work with young adults, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief and loss, low self-esteem, family conflict, and relationship challenges. With more than 15 years of experience, I have had the privilege of supporting children, adults, homebound individuals, and seniors from diverse backgrounds. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, strength-based approaches, and psychodynamic therapy to help clients understand their emotions, develop effective coping skills, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change. I am a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Professional and a Certified Grief-Informed Professional. Together, we can create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, process life’s challenges, and take practical steps toward feeling better.

I have a decade of experience working with adults and adolescents of various backgrounds. I believe that everyone who comes to meet with me should be treated with an individualized approach tailored to the patient's needs. I have training in therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and the Gottman Method. I assist clients with setting goals that are attainable and provide strategies that they can take from session and apply in their daily life.

“I’m a compassionate, client-centered therapist who works with individuals navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, combining practical coping strategies with deeper insight into patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we’ll focus on building resilience, increasing self-awareness, and helping you feel more confident and empowered in your daily life.”

Hi! I am Nicole Belgrave, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to making mental health care accessible, relatable, and stigma-free. I provide a warm, collaborative space where clients can explore emotions, build self-awareness, and develop practical tools to create meaningful, lasting change at their own pace. I believe that therapy is for everyone and it is a place where one can process their thoughts and identify how one’s feelings play a role in their daily decision making.  I use an integrative approach to meet the individual needs of each client, which is accomplished through the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), gestalt theory, person-centered theories and additional approaches as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).

I’m a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in helping adults overcome stress, anxiety, or OCD. I graduated from Columbia School of Social Work and have extensive training in multiple evidence-based treatments. My approach is active and collaborative, with an emphasis on building skills that you can apply in your daily life. In our work together, I focus on helping you better understand how your mind operates and equipping you with practical and effective tools to deal with your mental health more effectively. Over time, clients often find that they are able to feel calmer, think more clearly, and respond to challenges with greater confidence. Rather than feeling controlled by anxiety, they begin to experience a greater sense of freedom, balance, and control in their lives.

As a licensed clinician, I typically work with young adults who are looking to overcome past traumas, going through life transitions, or are seeking help in learning to cope with daily stressors. I also thoroughly enjoying helping people find connections between past experiences and current life circumstances to help prevent repeating negative patterns. My work usually involves discussing any history of complex emotional trauma, identifying and challenging negative beliefs, and connecting with different parts of ourselves that play a role in how we think and how we interact with others and the world around us. I'm always open to talk therapy for people who are looking to vent about stressors and discuss ways to move forward.

Hi! My name is Tawanna Peacock and I am a Licensed Psychotherapist {LCSW}. I am licensed and certified to practice in the state of New York. I received my Masters degree from the Hunter College School of Social Work and have been practicing since 2005. I have worked in human services for over 27 years and have been afforded a wealth of opportunities to help others. Each wonderful opportunity has allowed me to further utilize and develop my skills and assist my clients with reaching their personal goals.

Hi I am a licensed Clinical Social worker who has worked with clients ranging from 4-90 years of age. Currently I work with people between the ages of 17 and 90 who are able to use the remote platform effectively. I I have seen many people transform what they saw as impossible difficulties into manageable issues that they are able to overcome. Clients develop a more profound sense of what their life means to others and are able to confidently feel strong, unique and a deep sense of self love.

Hi, I’m Debra Ratchford, an LMHC and a CASAC in New York with 10 years of experience supporting adults and adolescents in individual therapy. I help people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward begin to understand their patterns, build confidence, and take practical steps toward change. I engage in active listening and empathy working with my clients.

Hi, I’m Brittney, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy should feel like a safe space where you can be honest, understood, and truly yourself. I work with adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, emotionally drained, or simply ready for something to change. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I take the time to understand your experiences, strengths, challenges, and goals. Together, we can explore what may be getting in the way and develop practical tools to help you navigate life with greater confidence and self-awareness. Whether you’re working through anxiety, depression, relationship or family challenges, major life transitions, stress, or simply trying to better understand yourself, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported without judgment and empowered to make meaningful changes at your own pace. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you’ve already taken one by being here. I’d be honored to support you along the way.

I am a caring, empathetic and attentive therapist who values creating a safe place and supportive environment where individuals feel heard, understood and respected. I am a great listener and problem solver with a Family Systems, EFT, and Solution Focused approach. I support clients in navigating challenges to work toward meaningful change. I have a strong ability to recognize patterns, identify underlying causes contributing to presenting concerns and help clients develop practical strategies for moving forward, I am compassionate and committed to each individual's growth and remain focused on supporting clients in building the insight and confidence and skills needed to create lasting change.

You are brave! My name is Amber, and it would be an honor to walk with you on your healing journey. Healing is messy and being real and open is key to truly healing. I have worked with children, teens, adults and families for over 20 years. I have a warm, relaxed approach, focusing on the importance of you feeling like you can share whatever is on your heart during our time. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and families dealing with all aspects of trauma, and also those impacted by adoption and/or foster care. It is most important to me that you feel safe, validated and empowered to feel, and process in order to heal!

I’m Kathleen Hobson, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the founder of KAT Psychotherapy. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to individuals and families, with a focus on helping clients navigate life’s challenges, improve their emotional well-being, and foster healthier relationships. My practice integrates approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and family-focused interventions to support healing and personal growth. At KAT Psychotherapy, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive space for transformation and empowerment.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides a supportive, collaborative space where clients can feel comfortable being themselves. My approach is practical and individualized, with a focus on understanding patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, relationship concerns, and emotional regulation challenges.

“Therapy for kids who don’t think it’s for them, parents in the thick of it, and women who are doing everything for everyone—except themselves.” Sound like you or someone you love? Well…I’ve got you covered! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in preteens and teenagers navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, and the complicated space between parents and kids. Much of my experience was built inside a school-based health clinic at the middle school level. Working with students in the middle of their actual world, not just an office. That perspective shapes everything about how I work. As an elder millennial and a parent, myself, I understand the impossible math of work-life balance. The guilt of feeling stretched too thin and the fear that you’re somehow getting it wrong. You’re not failing your kid. You’re here, and that’s what matters. My approach is warm but direct, grounded in evidence-based practice and genuine connection. I meet kids where they are… not where we think they should be. I work alongside parents as partners, not critics. Because you know your child better than anyone. My job is to help you find each other again. I also have a passion of working with women of all ages who are navigating careers, life, the world we live in and all of the complexities in between. I provide a judgement free, open space to live your truth and get answers to those questions that keep you up at night. If any of this resonates, I’d love to connect.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York and Michigan. I earned my Master in Social Work from Hunter College, New York, NY. I have been practicing for 15 years. I welcome clients/patients of all ages and backgrounds. I work with adults and children 8+. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, and eating disorders. Specific modalities that I may use include CBT, DBT, IPT, Existential therapy, and Supportive feedback. I am a strong ally with the LGBTQ+ community, and I am fluent in both Spanish and English.

I’m a down-to-earth therapist who believes therapy should feel human, not clinical or intimidating. I believe in bringing honesty and compassion into the room while creating a judgment-free space where you can show up exactly as you are and work toward meaningful change. Life can be difficult, let’s explore ways to ease it for you.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is licensed in Chicago and New York City. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Yeshiva University in New York City and am also a Columbia University graduate (B.A. Psychology). I have over 20 years' experience helping people manage anxiety (panic, phobias, obsessions and compulsions, trauma), depression, interpersonal/relationship issues, and anger. I also work with older adults and individuals with physical challenges. I use cognitive behavioral and mindfulness/stress management psychotherapy approaches to help people make positive changes in their lives by changing the way they act, think, feel, and interact with others, as well as manage stress more effectively.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 17 years of experience helping individuals navigate many of life’s challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and life transitions. In my practice I strive to provide a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where you will be heard, supported, and empowered to be the best possible version of yourself. There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to therapy. I will work with you to find the best approach to promote your personal growth, healing and self-awareness. We will work together to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy and mutual respect with the goal of achieving lasting therapeutic change.

Hi, I’m Davina Porter, LCSW, a licensed psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults. My practice offers a warm, nonjudgmental space to work through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the experiences that may leave you feeling stuck. I use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach and tailor therapy to meet you where you are while helping you move toward meaningful, lasting change.

My approach to therapy is person-centered and strengths-based, which means I strive to meet you where you are and tailor treatment to your individual needs and goals. I often incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques to help clients develop practical coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and navigate life's challenges more effectively. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we can explore what's getting in the way, build healthy coping strategies, and work toward the changes that are important to you.I am committed to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care and welcome individuals from all backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. I enjoy working with people across the lifespan and am open to supporting diverse populations. I value creating a therapeutic space where clients feel respected, accepted, and understood, and I recognize the importance of considering cultural, social, and personal factors that shape each individual's experience.