Therapists in New York

Hello, I am a License Mental Health Counselor (LMHC, NCC), based in New York. I earned my Masters degree at CUNY Queens College. I have been practicing for 6 years assisting children, teens and adult navigating daily life stressors for a more functional day. I am authentic, with a genuine approach in building a therapeutic relationship with clients for a successful and positive therapeutic experience.

Hello! I am a therapist passionate about helping adults, couples and families heal from pain and dysfunction and move on to live happier and more fulfilling lives. I believe that everyone has the right to experience happiness, love and peace. YOU deserve to be happy! For the past 15 years, I have helped individuals, couples and families heal from past traumas, navigate current challenges, strengthen their sense of self and/or interpersonal ties, etc. I am a trauma-informed therapist and also have advanced training in shame, grief/bereavement, anxiety, couples counseling and personality disorders. I am passionate about continuing education and consistently strive to stay on top of current research and new treatment modalities.

My name is Dr. Bonnie Floyd. I'm a clinical health psychologist. This profession merges my dual interests in clinical psychology and medicine. I assist clients with chronic illness to attempt to live their best possible lives. I work with them to maximize their strengths, and decrease their weaknesses. Even after more than twenty years, I remain passionate about what I do! I have a longstanding interest in helping individuals who are struggling with depression. Major depressive disorder is such a serious clinical condition, and still undertreated. Even individuals with milder forms of depression may benefit from therapy to achieve a better qualities of life.

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.

Kathleen M. Brady is a licensed psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience. She brings compassion, sincerity, and a genuine desire to help others achieve clarity and emotional well-being. Kathleen provides a nurturing, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe exploring their inner worlds, confronting life’s challenges, and creating meaningful change. Her path to becoming a therapist began in childhood with one of life’s biggest questions: “What is the meaning of life?” That early curiosity sparked a lifelong passion for understanding how people make sense of their experiences, relationships, and emotions. Today, Kathleen combines this deep sense of wonder with a grounded, collaborative approach that empowers clients to discover insight, resilience, and purpose in their everyday lives.

I'm Jennifer Culley, LCSW-R, a licensed clinical social worker in New York with decades of experience providing clinical services. I have a Masters degree from Columbia University and have worked in clinical settings with a variety of clients over my years in the field. My work is always client focused and based on my experience, training, and genuine therapeutic connections I make with my clients.

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.

Hello, I’m Kelisha Mark, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I create a warm, collaborative, and solution-focused environment where clients can feel heard and empowered. My goal is to help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and life transitions while promoting emotional balance and self-confidence. I believe that every client has the capacity to heal and grow with the right support and guidance.

Hi, I’m Ashley — a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 13 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s toughest (and most meaningful) transitions. I specialize in working with moms, parents of young children, and adults navigating stress, anxiety, overwhelm, and major life changes. As both a clinician and a mom of three, I understand how heavy the mental load can feel — and how important it is to have a space where you get to feel supported. My approach is warm, grounded, and practical. I blend evidence-based therapies with real-life strategies you can use immediately. Whether you’re managing anxiety, learning emotional regulation, or trying to find balance within motherhood, our work will be collaborative, validating, and empowering.

I’m a licensed mental health clinician who understands what it’s like to juggle real-life stress, family dynamics, and the desire to live with integrity. My work blends solid therapeutic tools with a warm, relational style shaped by my background in ministry, music, and helping people reconnect with the parts of themselves they’ve pushed aside. I walk with clients through anxiety, identity struggles, burnout, and the pull toward unhealthy coping, offering a space that’s honest, grounded, and hopeful. My goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and capable of lasting change—one step at a time, at a pace that feels right for you.

I understand that it can be difficult to make the decision to seek counseling and to find a therapist that you feel most comfortable with. My ultimate goal is to provide a safe, therapeutic space for clients to process, offer guidance, instill hope, and assist with strengthening one’s toolbox to navigate life’s challenges. I understand that everyone has difficult times in their life, and we all experience situations differently. I have over 11 years of experience I utilize a variety of approaches including cognitive behavioral, strengths-based, mindfulness, solution-focused, family systems, and motivational interviewing to help people meet there needs. It can be uncomfortable to reach out to someone you haven't met. I love to meet new people and I use my sense of humor and easy going manner to help my clients get comfortable quickly. Reach out to me and lets get started creating your life worth living!

Hi, I’m Shay Mitchell, LCSW. As your therapist, my goal is to offer a space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. Beginning therapy can feel intimidating, especially when you’ve been carrying a lot on your own. My role is to walk alongside you as we make sense of your experiences, uncover the patterns that are holding you back, and build the emotional tools you need to move forward with clarity and confidence. In our work together, I combine evidence-based approaches—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and person-centered techniques with a warm, collaborative style. I believe that healing grows from a strong therapeutic relationship, where you feel safe enough to explore difficult emotions and empowered enough to imagine something different for your future. You are the expert in your own life; my job is to guide, support, and help you develop new ways of understanding yourself and the world around you. Clients often come to me during seasons of transition, emotional overwhelm, self-doubt, relationship stress, or when old wounds begin to resurface. Together, we’ll identify what’s no longer serving you and create a plan that feels manageable and aligned with your values. Whether we’re working to reduce anxiety, strengthen boundaries, improve emotional regulation, or heal from past experiences, I approach your growth with compassion, curiosity, and respect. Therapy with me is both reflective and practical. You’ll gain insight into your patterns, but you’ll also learn real skills—tools you can use in your everyday life to feel more grounded, more in control, and more connected to yourself. My hope is that through our work, you discover your own resilience, rebuild trust in yourself, and feel empowered to create the life you truly want. You don’t have to do this alone. I’m here to help you every step of the way.

I am a caring counselor with 10 years of experience in helping individuals navigate their emotional and mental health journeys. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to meet each person's unique needs. I specialize in supporting clients through challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-esteem issues. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and develop effective coping strategies to create a more fulfilling life. I help people cut through confusion to discover what truly matters in their relationships and lives. Whether you're a couple caught in repetitive conflicts, or an individual navigating life transitions, my approach combines intellectual depth, genuine warmth, and practical structure to create lasting, measurable change.

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 a long-term provider of mental health, I feel that therapy is very much like coaching. Together we can affect change using the tenets of CBT. I like to work in a brief, short-term and goal-centered approach. Come with an open mind and let us talk about making minor adjustments that can lead to long term changes. My mantra is -- "How can I help?" And if it sounds like a "Zen" like approach to counseling- maybe it is. Feel free to contact me with questions .

My name is Steven Merino, and I am a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience in counseling and social work. I hold a Master’s degree in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, supporting clients who face challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. My approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices designed to empower individuals to achieve personal growth, healing, and emotional well-being. I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop insight, and build the tools necessary to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY. A former marketing executive who needed to find a career with meaning, where I was making a real difference in people's lives, rather than selling them a new product. After major burnout and several personal traumas, I made a decision to help others who experienced trauma in their lives and were not living a full, happy life as a result.

Taking the first step toward healing requires incredible courage, and I’m honored to be part of your journey. I understand that seeking therapy can feel daunting, but you're not alone—I’m here to support you through every step of the process. My mission is to provide a safe, welcoming, and confidential space where you can explore your challenges without fear of judgment. I believe that healing comes from acknowledging where change is needed, and I’m here to help you create the life you deserve. Together, we’ll work through your emotions and develop effective coping strategies that align with your goals for a more fulfilling life

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in NYS. I graduated with my Master's degree in mental health counseling in 2015 and my bachelors in psychology in 2011. I began my career as a mental health crisis responder in my local community and worked in that role for a number of years. Following my work in community crisis response I transitioned into a community mental health outpatient, working as an individual therapist. Through my community based work I have been fortunate to work with a wide range of individuals and problems. I did notice a pattern of folks being impacted by past or present traumas which were showing up in relationships and impacting the quality of life for many. This is when I decided to focus my career on building the skills that I needed in order to help my clients resolve traumas. I am a certified EMDR clinician and bring a trauma-informed lens into the work I do with my clients.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in Humanistic and Attachment-Based psychotherapy, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support insight-driven, culturally sensitive clinical work. My practice centers on creating emotionally safe, equitable healing spaces that empower clients to understand their relational patterns, build resilience, and create meaningful change. With extensive experience in mental health, crisis intervention, and complex clinical systems, I bring a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and relational approach to therapy. My work is grounded in cultural humility, emotional attunement, and evidence-based practices that honor each client’s lived experience. I am committed to providing accessible care, supporting diverse populations, and advancing ethical, compassionate clinical practice within healthcare, community, and academic settings.

I am James Cherry, a trauma-certified, DBT-certified therapist and clinical supervisor specializing in complex trauma, personality disorders, and relational healing. With a background as a high school educator, I bring a deep passion for learning, psychoeducation, and accessible care into therapy. My practice is neurodivergent-affirming, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, and rooted in evidence-based care that fosters resilience, clarity, connection, and lifelong growth.

I am an LCSW, Columbia university graduate. I discovered the field of social through my sister's chronic illness as a child. The hospital social worker who worked with my sister and family opened my eyes to the compassion that is needed in caring for and connecting to families undergoing unanticipated difficulties. From a young age, I knew I wanted to help others with processing difficult life experiences.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in work with adults experiencing burnout and meaning-related distress following chronic stress, illness, or major life transitions. My approach is practical, focused, and depth-informed, aimed at restoring clarity and forward movement. I enjoy questions of depth and meaning while also maintaining a pragmatic approach to counseling. I look forward to discussing the human experience with you.

Hi there! I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore their experiences and move toward meaningful change. I aim to support clients in understanding their emotions, develop effective coping skills and build resilience. I believe therapy works best as a collaborative process and I strive to meet each person with empathy, curiosity, and respect for their unique story. My goal is to help clients feel empowered, grounded and capable of creating the life they envision.

I am Eneida Farro, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My background in both U.S. and Latin American mental health systems allows me to offer culturally sensitive, compassionate care tailored to each client’s unique story. I integrate evidence-based approaches with a warm, humanistic style, creating a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with their sense of purpose and well-being.

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.

Hi I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Long Island New York. I have been practicing professionally for the past 25+ years and work closely with adults and young adults who are struggling with career stressors and interpersonal relationship issues. I work to help them to become the best versions of themselves. I have long standing relationships in the community and currently work as a manager of a large team of social workers and maintain a thriving private practice.

Hi, I’m Amanda! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2018, specializing in helping adults navigate trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and the patterns that hold us back. I employ evidence-based approaches that are compassionate, respectful, and non-pathologizing, focusing on understanding the organization and function of your inner world. In our work together, you will gain powerful and practical tools to heal and address the wounded or burdened parts of your internal system. Connect with me to explore your inner experiences, build insight, and discover effective strategies for growth and healing. Together, we can create a path toward greater understanding, balance, and emotional resilience.

I have 21 years of experience as a therapist and social worker. I use a strengths-based, client-centered approach and I believe psychotherapy is an effective tool in helping people overcome fears, anxiety, depression, and maladaptive patterns and behaviors. I strive to help clients tap into strengths they didn't know they had, form more positive relationships, and heal old emotional wounds.

Hi! I'm Fran Bax, MS, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-Master. I'm a licensed therapist in New York State and the state of Nevada. I specialize in integrating motivational interviewing and cognitive-based therapy to help clients overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment, where clients explore their motivations for change and learn practical strategies to challenge negative thoughts and behaviors. My approach emphasizes empowerment, resilience, and long-term growth, tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who blends warmth, honesty, direct feedback, and evidence-based strategies to help clients feel more grounded and in control of their lives. I work with people navigating anxiety, stress, and big life transitions, and I focus on giving you practical tools you can use right away while still holding space for deeper reflection and growth.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions, and I believe therapy works best when clients feel genuinely seen and supported. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical, using evidence-based tools while honoring each person’s unique experiences. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can show up as they are and move toward meaningful change at their own pace.

If you are feeling hopeless, despair and like you are not living your best life and with no purpose, passion, and real joy, you’re not alone. I have an extensive history of working with diverse individuals who struggle with depression, emotion regulation, anxiety, anger, childhood trauma, grief, addiction and other life struggles and psychiatric conditions. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), CASAC-Certified Alcohol and Drug Specialist with a warm, genuine, non-judgmental approach that creates a safe space for you to process, explore, heal, and grow. My clients often describe me as someone they feel comfortable talking to.

Hello, I’m Dr. Ian Griffin, PhD, LCSW-R. I’m a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and couples through life’s challenges. My clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, relationship concerns, and stress related to work, identity, and major life transitions. I’ve worked across clinical, educational, and community settings, which allows me to bring a grounded, real-world perspective into therapy. My approach is warm, collaborative, and structured, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and couples counseling strategies. I believe therapy should be both supportive and practical—helping clients better understand their patterns while building tools they can use outside of sessions. I’m passionate about mental health advocacy and empowering clients to create meaningful, sustainable change. My goal is to provide a safe, respectful space where you feel heard, challenged when needed, and supported as you move toward greater clarity, balance, and well-being. I’m based in Wappingers Falls, New York, and offer telehealth services.

Mary received a BA in psychology from Queens College. Then, she attended New York University, where she earned her master's degree in social work. She is a licensed Clinic Social Worker/ Therapist for over 20 years. During the therapeutic process, you will gain a deeper understanding of what you want out of life and develop skills to help you reach your goals.

I love my job. I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. I've worked in inpatient and outpatient settings in addition to private practice. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias and relationship issues. I work collaboratively with clients utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).

Congratulations on taking the first step toward making change in your life! My name is Carly. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 10 years of experience in behavioral health, and have worked with adolescents and adults experiencing both mental health and substance abuse disorders. I graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, and completed an M.S.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at St. John's University. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, which will help you learn the tools to challenge patterns of thinking that leave you feeling stuck. By learning these skills, you will be more equipped to manage difficult relationships and tackle stressful life events. By shifting to an internal locus of control, you will finally begin to feel a sense of autonomy over your life. My style is to be more active during sessions, while being careful not to "advice give". You will always be in the driver's seat as we work together to better navigate problems.

Hi, I am Michelle. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years experience working with a diverse population with a strong background working with teens, adults and caregivers. Life can be challenging, and can bring a degree of stress that can be associated with positive and uncomfortable circumstances making it hard to enjoy life and have stability. I am a strong believer that change can happen. I focus on you, using strength and solution based interventions. You will be heard and provided a safe space so you can work towards your goals.

Hi I'm Rachael and I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience. I help teens, young adults, and adults of all ages work through stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional challenges so they can gain clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of self. In addition to private practice, my experience includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, as well as school based settings.

I am a first-generation Latina therapist passionate about supporting clients through challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and stress. I work with individuals seeking to understand their emotions, develop coping skills, and create meaningful change in their lives. By providing a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, gain insight, and achieve personal growth.

I'm a relatable, no-fluff therapist who brings a bit of quirk, fun, warmth, and authenticity to session. I have a passion for real, human conversations and believe healing works best when you can show exactly who you are. I am a Clinical Social Worker with 8yr of experience. I graduated from Binghamton University with my MSW, and have professional experience with people of all ages in a community mental health setting.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Western New York, with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, which helped me discover where my heart truly lies—supporting women through life’s many transitions. Are you navigating the uncertainty of post-college life, wondering who you are outside the classroom? Have you recently started a new job and find yourself second-guessing every move? Maybe you’re a mom juggling countless responsibilities, trying your best while feeling stretched thin. Change can be overwhelming—especially when it’s accompanied by self-doubt, confusion, or shame. My passion is helping women better understand themselves, build confidence, and improve their mental health as they move through life’s inevitable shifts. My counseling style is warm, patient, and open-minded. I am trauma-informed and draw on a range of evidence-based modalities to support healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. Above all, I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel empowered to grow.

I’m Dan—a dedicated, down-to-earth therapist with a background that gives me deep empathy for those who’ve experienced trauma and adversity. My years in the military and emergency response taught me how resilient people can be, even in their darkest moments. I help clients process what they've been through and reconnect with a sense of meaning and control in their lives. Healing isn’t a straight line—but you don’t have to walk it alone.

I am a License Mental Health Counselor in New York and Florida that works with marital counseling clients and those experiencing relationship issues and who are struggling with their sense of self confidence. My ideal client is someone who is committed to the process of self-introspection and wants to be held accountable to reach their goals. I specialize in counseling women and men on self-esteem, worth & actualization. I also support clients affected by bullying, narcissistic abuse as well as those dealing with complicated grief. As your therapist, I will assist you in discovering or uncovering yourself. This might mean realizing some difficult truths about your personality and behavior patterns, tapping into your strengths, and identifying what coping skills work for you. Or, it might mean working through emotional pain, trauma, or barriers that prevent you from being your best self. In my years of experience, I have found that once a person’s authentic identity has been discovered through therapy, clients can accept who they are, confidently speak up for themselves and understand themselves with greater perspective. Usually this leads to healthier relationship choices and dynamics. I will help you to learn more about yourself and make realistic changes.

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.

Hi, I’m Erin. I’ve been supporting clients therapeutically for over seven years, with a primary focus on youth and young adults. I believe deeply in the power of relationships and family systems to shape who we are and how we heal. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity. I draw from family systems, cognitive-behavioral, and strengths-based frameworks to help clients explore challenges and build resilience. While much of my work centers around supporting youth, I welcome individuals and families of all ages who are seeking connection, clarity, and growth. I’m passionate about creating a safe, compassionate space where people can be seen, heard, and supported as they navigate life’s complexities.

have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years, with experience in group home settings, private schools, crisis outreach, outpatient mental health, and inpatient psychiatric care. I have provided assessments for the Erie County and Domestic Violence Court System and conducted risk assessments in hospital emergency rooms to determine the need for acute psychiatric hospitalization. In my practice, I value the therapeutic relationship and take a strength-based approach to help clients achieve meaningful change. I support both individuals and couples in navigating emotional, psychological, and relational challenges, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, conflict, and self-esteem. If you are ready to make a change, I am ready to help you reach your goals.

EMILIA has training in treating children, teens and adults including those with developmental disabilities throughout life phases. She has experience using trauma focused therapy and grief therapy for survivors and caregivers. She specializes in applying CBT and mindfulness skills to help with stress-reduction, sleep and focus. Many people see an improvement within the first few sessions when using tools taught in session. Sometimes, client feel a large sense of relieve after the first session because of my approach to listen and validate.

I am Anya, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor fluent in English and Russian, with conversational Ukrainian. I specialize in individual therapy for adults and couples therapy, drawing from modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Relational Life Therapy (RLT), CBT, DBT, Gestalt, and Positive Psychology. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client's unique needs, whether you're navigating relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, or personal growth. I'm licensed in New York, Connecticut and Florida, and I'm passionate about helping clients develop deeper self-awareness and healthier patterns in their relationships and lives.

Exploring our mental health can sometimes be an overwhelming and daunting experience, especially in our current climate. Having a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental space to share your personal experiences is the foundation of the therapeutic process and can be the environment that you require in order to take the necessary steps to feeling whole again. My approach has always fostered a compassionate, client centered focus where your needs are put first and you are provided the freedom to be the expert in your life journey and meeting your personal goals along the way.