Therapists in New York

Welcome! I'm Lisa. Are you experiencing stressors related to life changes and its triggering anxiety? Are you feeling burnt out? Do you need help increasing motivation, self-awareness or self-esteem? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're in the right place! It is best to say that I am the right therapist for you and would love to work with you! I will provide a comfortable and supportive environment, allowing you to discuss life stressors along with freely expressing your emotions. During our sessions, we will explore effective holistic strategies that will help you navigate through life stressors or anxiety. Along with increasing confidence, regulating emotions and overall finding the right balance with life and your mental health. A little bit about me: I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) speaking Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and I have worked as a therapist for 7 years. I have experience working with adults. I am passionate about implementing holistic strategies to help my clients strive. Don't wait any longer, start TODAY and BOOK your appointment!

Hi! I'm an NYU graduate and mental health therapist based in New York City. I have gained significant experience working in a community mental health clinic. I have an easy going and laid back approach. I pride myself creating a down to earth and nonjudgmental environment. My main area of focus is working with people struggling with anxiety, stress, heartbreak, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem issues. Feeling overwhelmed can be tough but you don't have to navigate this alone. Imagine feeling lighter and approaching challenges with more confidence. Ready to take the first step? I'm here to support you on your journey.

I am a Clinical Therapist with over a decade of experience in counseling, leadership, and mentoring. I have my Masters in Clinical Social Work and specialize in Trauma and PTSD, Relationships, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, and mood-related concerns. I work with clients from all age groups, focusing on finding practical and meaningful solutions for difficult situations. I offer a strengths-oriented and trauma-informed perspective grounded on various therapeutic techniques. I am very aware of the dynamics culture, gender, and other external factors play on our life choices. Treatment is approached holistically and includes all the different pieces of who you are so that change can be meaningful and long-lasting. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I have experience integrating faith with clinical treatment. I believe spiritual and emotional wellness go hand-in-hand and actively work towards bridging the gap between spirituality and mental health. For my clients who identify as Christian, we will focus on spiritual growth alongside of developing clinical skills. Therapy is tailored to your specific needs and filled with compassion and respect. I aim to create a challenging yet encouraging space so my clients feel empowered as they work towards healing and growth. Let's get a session scheduled and discuss your needs. I am looking forward to meeting you and being part of your journey.

Walesca Marmolejos is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has over a decade of experience working with individuals and groups across the lifespan. Walesca's approach is holistic, relational, collaborative, and trauma informed. Walesca is also a certified yoga instructor who believes in focusing on the whole individual (mind AND body), not just their circumstances. Walesca's approach is open, relational, and collaborative. An environment that is safe and non-judgmental, where a person can develop a sense of trust and well-being is a priority and of utmost importance. Together, we take a deeply personal journey, exploring possibilities and facing what has been difficult. The goal is to help you heal and guide you toward increased self-knowledge and emotional comfort. Walesca offers supportive counseling and psychotherapy for individuals including children/adolescents dealing with stress, depression, grief and loss, and family issues and one of my chief areas of interest is in the field of trauma. I offer evening hours and virtual sessions only.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of New York and Indiana. I have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University-Los Angeles. Previously, I had a 30 year career in the Film & Television industry. My passions were, the Film business & Psychology. I said to myself, the day I become disinterested in the Film business, I'll go to graduate school, get my degree in psychology and become a psychotherapist. That day came and here I am. I have been practicing since 2009.

I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop new coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based techniques to support your personal growth and well-being.

I have been working with clients for over 10 years from a variety of demographics. I have been providing therapy since 2017. I continually like to expand my knowledge and participate in trainings and further education. Depending on what is discussed in session, I might send home information for further reading or just a handout as a reminder of what was discussed as a referral tool in between sessions. I firmly believe I can help clients break free of negative thoughts and behavior patterns.

I am a compassionate, empathetic and intuitive licensed mental health counselor. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to embark on their journey of self-discovery which will allow them to make changes that will ultimately make them feel better and inspired to accomplish their goals. I earned an Ed.M in Counseling Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. I have held my NYS Mental Health Counselor License for over 25 years. I am also bilingual English and Spanish for clients who may have a preference or would like to have the option to express their thoughts and feelings in either or both languages

Hi ! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in the field of mental health and healing for over 15 years. I love hearing the life stories of others and exploring with them how they can get some healing from life's challenges. I am also big on looking at one's strengths and accomplishments in life. I believe that many people already are on their journey.

My name is Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York. I am Puerto Rican, bilingual (Spanish and English), and have been conducting psychotherapy sessions for the last 6 years. I have experience working with people of all races, backgrounds, ages, and socioeconomic status. My approach to therapy is meeting a client where they are, what their goals are for therapy, and I remind them that they are the expert of their life (knowing themselves the best). Mi nombre es Lisa y soy trabajadora social clínica autorizada en el estado de Nueva York. Soy puertorriqueña, bilingüe (español e inglés) y he realizado sesiones de psicoterapia durante los últimos 6 años. Tengo experiencia trabajando con personas de todas las razas, orígenes, edades y niveles socioeconómicos. Mi enfoque de la terapia es encontrar al cliente dónde se encuentra, cuáles son sus objetivos para la terapia y recordarle que eres el experto de su vida (conociéndose mejor a sí mismo).

For over 17 years, I have dedicated my life to supporting the healing and empowerment of people from marginalized communities (including LGBTQ+, POC and WOC.) My work is rooted in the belief that each person is an expert in their own lives. As a therapist I work in holistic collaboration with my clients to create a life they love, regardless of if whatever is arising in the current moment is pleasant, unpleasant or neutral. I bring an anti-oppressive and social justice lens to the work with a focus on holistic wellness in mind, body and spirit. I am an LCSW trained in DBT, Emotional Release Work, EMDR and Mediation. Also, I am an Ordained Interfaith Minister, Holistic Health Counselor, Reiki Teacher and Community Dharma (Mindfulness) Instructor, 200hr Yoga teacher and licensed (inactive) attorney.

Seeking strength, understanding, and a path forward? I'm not your typical therapist. I've walked the walk that you have, not just once, but twice. As a former Marine and law enforcement officer, I know firsthand the pressures, traumas, and unique challenges faced by those in service and beyond. Now, I leverage my experience and clinical expertise to guide individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and the invisible wounds of trauma.

I strive to collaborate with you in providing psychotherapy where you feel safe, heard, and free to express yourself without judgement. I can be particularly helpful in helping you develop more self-acceptance, more insight, and teach you different tools to support your mental health and well-being. Additionally, I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and CBT. Let’s collaborate to find what works best for you.

I worked for 15 years in a hospital, providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. I had the privilege of working with clients from all over the world, with different backgrounds and of various age groups. Currently, I transitioned to work privately providing telehealth therapy. I believe compassion, caring, and the therapeutic alliance are most important in the helping process. These are the core values informing my practice. I use a gentle and creative approach in guiding my clients on their healing journey. I draw from various therapeutic approaches depending on the clients' needs, stage of therapy, and mental health issue. For example, for Bipolar disorder, I combine interpersonal, supportive and CBT modalities in a collaborative and empathic setting. Most importantly, I believe that compassion, openness and acceptance, build a strong therapeutic alliance, key to maximizing a client’s successful outcome.

When I was in my undergraduate studies, I fell in love with the idea that people have abilities, rather than handicap. Then I went to my master's program in Rehabilitation Counseling, and I loved that people get chances to improve their lives. I love seeing my people thrive and learn to live their best lives. I love catching people doing great.

Hello everyone, I am Monique Mack, and as a therapist, mother, and lifelong learner, I have had the privilege of helping individuals navigate life's challenges. From medical issues to mental health disorders, I am here to provide support and guidance. Let's work together towards healing and personal growth. In my work, I use an eclectic range of therapeutic modalities and will collaborate with you to determine the best treatment for you.

I help successful, world-class achievers who feel disconnected, frustrated and unsatisfied in their lives, to transform their relationships - to themselves and to others - to create the love, connection and fulfillment they desire deep down. If you are tired of feeling stuck, misunderstood, and unsatisfied with yourself and/or your relationships, despite your other successes and achievements, I am here for you. I hold two master’s Degrees from Columbia University and am the inventor of Life Therapy™, a combination of Psychotherapy & Coaching + Mindfulness & Meditation. For almost 18 years I've had an out-of-pocket only practice, and recently created a concierge model so that you can get a portion of your experience covered by insurance!

Robyn Houlihan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York, with over 20 years of experience in social services. Her career encompasses a broad range of roles, including supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness and severe mental illness, mobile crisis response teams, and clinical psychotherapy for both children and adults. Robyn has held positions in direct practice as well as leadership roles, consistently demonstrating expertise in complex clinical and organizational settings. Robyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at the University of Kentucky, where her research focuses on women in leadership and women’s health. In addition to her clinical work, Robyn runs a private practice dedicated to supporting women’s health and well-being. She also serves as a Senior Social Worker at a community mental health center within a Brooklyn hospital, where she specializes in intake assessments, diagnosis, and crisis intervention. Robyn is an active member of two peer support teams, furthering her commitment to empowering and support health workers and prevention of burnout.

Broadly speaking, my therapeutic aproach of counseling falls into a behavioral model through which I usually work to address the problems identified. I pride myself for being a thoughtful therapist who manages to get those to talk and explore a different perspective on the identified issues. Quite simply, and through various and applicable therapeutic modalities, I recall past details and tie them together with new facts to help clients better understand themselves.

With 20 years of experience supporting the LGBTQ+ community, I create a safe, compassionate space where you can be yourself. Together, we’ll tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs, ensuring you feel heard and understood every step of the way. I'm most interested in you reaching your fullest potential using a personally tailored approach based on your individual needs and therapeutic goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate based in New York. My aim as a psychotherapist is to walk with you on your journey towards greater self-awareness, improved outlook, and to help you develop the skills you need to better manage your own challenges to live a more fulfilling life with renewed empowerment.

Meet me! I am a skilled and caring mental health therapist and CASAC -M. As a motivated, compassionate professional, I will extend support to you through your journey toward healing, personal growth, and well-being. At the crux of my practice, stands the goal of creating safe and empowering spaces for everyone to grow and thrive through an integrative, person-centered approach.

Hello. I'm Catherine. I'm a Generalized Practice Clinician with over 14 years in the field of Clinical Social Work. While I've worked in a variety of settings, the majority of my professional career was spent in Community Mental Health. For the past 3 years, I've focused solely on Psychotherapy and truly love this side of Social Work. Outside of work, I'm passionate about travel, cats, the environment, and cooking. Fun fact- I'm a boarding school alumna.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York. I graduated from the Silver School of Social Work at New York University and have been in this field for 7 years. I help clients process childhood trauma, traumatic-based symptoms and experiences. I also help clients who are experiencing challenges grief, with life transitions, depressive-symptoms, and anxiety-related symptoms.

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

I'm Luz, a bilingual therapist fluent in English and Spanish, dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and empowering space where healing begins. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and faith-based counseling, helping individuals from diverse backgrounds gain insight, build resilience, and work toward their personal goals. My approach is holistic and strength-based, integrating therapies like CBT and trauma-informed care to create meaningful, lasting change. I believe that every person has the strength within them to heal, and I’m here to walk alongside you in that journey.

Welcome! Thank you for considering working together with me to reach your goals. I work with issues related to depression, anxiety, goals, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, boundaries, stress, anger, conflict, and philosophical/spiritual issues. I see clients of all orientations and cultural/ethnic backrounds. I am respectful of all religious traditions as well as secular and philosophical traditions. I work with individuals, couples, families and children/teens. My aproach to therapy is: Direct Respectful Non-judgmental Solution-focused Empowering Positive In the short term you should feel better going out than you did coming in. Over the long term, you should feel more empowered, clearer, more self-supporting, more compassionate with yourself and more skilled with others. I look forward to working together with you! Sincerely, Miriam Mendelson, LMHC, PhD (Dr. Mimi)

Hello! I'm Dr. Arthur Chen, a licensed psychologist in and the Clinical Director of a group practice dedicated to fostering mental wellness. My expertise centers on helping individuals navigate prevalent challenges such as Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, eating disorders, and substance abuse recovery. Beyond these core specializations, our practice is uniquely equipped to address severe mental health issues, including bipolar disorder and psychosis. As Clinical Director, I oversee a team committed to providing comprehensive care across the full spectrum of mental health needs. I'm also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional – Level 2 (CCTP-II), meaning I'm highly trained in addressing the lasting effects of trauma. My therapeutic approach integrates powerful, evidence-based models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). I also utilize the cutting-edge Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders, allowing me to tailor effective strategies that lead to tangible, positive changes in your life. In therapy, my goal is to help you build resilience and develop strong coping skills. We'll work collaboratively to understand your struggles, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and cultivate a stronger, more adaptable you. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety or depression, working through recovery, or exploring personal growth, I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space. I believe investing in therapy is investing in your emotional well-being and happiness. As an engaged therapist, I provide practical tools and insights you can apply to everyday life, guiding you towards lasting fulfillment. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, I'm passionate about empowering individuals to achieve greater emotional balance and a more satisfying life. Ready to take the next step?

My name is Diana Pacheco, LCSW, and I am a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping adults reduce stress, improve relationships, and manage the challenges of anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. My clinical approach combines CBT, ACT, and IPT with psychodynamic principles to create a structured yet supportive therapy process. Clients can expect a balance of empathy, practical strategies, and clinical expertise designed to help them make measurable progress and long-term changes.

I am a Licensed mental health counselor in New York, with more than 15 years of experience in psychotherapy in various outpatient clinical settings. I continue to work with clients of various ages with a wide range of concerns. My therapy style is warm and interactive and I meet clients where they are at. I believe in treating everyone with respect sensitivity and compassion. My approach combines cognitive, behavioral, art, humanistic, solution focused and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our conversations and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and personal goals. I am aware of how difficult it can be to reach out for help. It takes courage to seek support from others and recognize you don't need to do it alone. I hope to help you on your new journey towards a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take the first steps towards change, I am here to support and empower you at this time.

I am Marcia, a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a Master's degree and I have been practicing in New York for 25 years. I absolutely love what I do!!! My goal is to put myself out of a job which I accomplish by helping you work through whatever is blocking you from living your best life. I have worked in a variety of settings as a K-12 school based therapist, as an individual, family, and group therapist in a therapeutic boarding school for high school and college students with addictions, as a private therapist working with individuals and couples. I have also worked as a Military Family Life counselor both in New York as well as overseas. This has provided me with multi-cultural experience learning from and being challenged by clients with racial and cultural differences from my own. In addition to my master's program, I have post-graduate training in family systems therapy, play therapy, and couples counseling.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New York. I hold a Master's degree from ATS at Nyack College and have been practicing for 19 years. I specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, life traumas, and emotional challenges, empowering them to heal, grow, and thrive. My approach is tailored to each person, integrating both evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a compassionate, holistic perspective. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space where clients can work through their struggles and ultimately develop the tools they need to lead fulfilling, balanced lives. Together, we’ll work toward overcoming obstacles and achieving long-lasting personal transformation.

Hi. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of New York. As a therapist I bring my genuine self to every session. I have been told that my curiosity and authenticity have been both appreciated and frustrating, but eye-opening and therapeutic. I can’t promise that this journey will always be easy, but I can promise that I’ll be with you every step of the way. My main goal is to establish a truthful and supportive relationship with my clients while creating a safe space where no subject is off limits.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional advanced certifications. I have expertise and many years of experience helping clients navigate serious illness, grief and loss, and supporting caregivers. I also specialize in treating individuals who are struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety. I look forward to meeting with you and identifying how I can support your next stage of growth.

When the time comes to make a change, it takes courage to ask for help. To be one who can respond to the request is a privilege. I believe the response needs gentle and warm and welcoming. I integrate my relational approach with long- and short-term, problem focused psychotherapeutic work. I am trained both psychodynamically and relationally and have recently added EMDR to my practice modalities to ease the burden of seemingly intractable trauma responses. My focus, above all, is to create a meaningful connection. That connection will provide a foundation for the work of diminishing suffering and supporting each person to be in their lives as fully and joyfully as possible.

As a client of mine, you should expect a learning and judgment free space. A space where you will be understandably hesitant yet free and understood. I've dedicated my career to becoming a better therapist for my clients by learning about other cultures and aspects of life that contribute to our mental health. In our work together, I aim to provide the best approaches to reach your goals and ultimately leave feeling complete and refreshed. With my years of experience, I have helped many clients and couples understand themselves in different ways than they started and make positive changes that they hoped for. Understanding how difficult it is to be open and vulnerable, it is especially important for me to be patient and increase my abilities with engagement. I strive for understanding, respect and authenticity in all sessions and with all clients.

I am a psychotherapist in White Plains, NY, with a focus on treating individuals, couples, and families. I work as a bilingual school-based clinician with MHA Westchester, based in the North Rockland school system, and an LMFT in private practice at Bridge To Bliss Therapy. I hold certifications from the Center for Practice Innovations at Columbia Psychiatry and NYU Grossman School of Medicine, two prestigious post-graduate programs. In addition, I have training in the Gottman Method for couples. I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Integrated Mental Health/Addictions Treatment Training (IMHATT), and Managing & Adapting Practice (MAP).

Doris has collected her skills from independently providing clinical supervision for Master of Social work students and over 30 years of supporting individuals with chronic mental illness, homelessness and medical issues. She provides Reproductive Mental Health to veterans. The use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and supportive counseling helps her to give individuals and groups the uncovered strength that they have to go through life.

Hello — I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and holistic therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship dynamics, and deep emotional healing. My work combines traditional psychotherapy with integrative approaches like hypnotherapy, somatic work, and mindfulness-based practices to support people in finding peace, clarity, and empowerment in their lives. I offer a safe, compassionate space where every part of you is welcome.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York. I have been practicing for over 3 years. I help teens, young adults, and adults struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma work towards their individual goals to become the best versions of themselves. I have experience working with people within different communities, of different cultures, and different ages. I'm trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Informed Care.

I'm a New York Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my masters degree from the Silberman School of Social Work and Health & Life Coach Certificate from the Health Coach Institute. My practice is dedicated to working with individuals in various walks of life to become more independent and confident versions of themselves. I have over 20 years experience working with adults with various diagnosis, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am fully bilingual in Spanish and English.

I am a Latina therapist from New York and founder of Capaz Counseling. I named my practice after the word "capaz" which means capable and inspires my practice’s mission to build on the fact that we are all capable of deepening mind and body experiences for catharsis, balance, and progress among the varying parts of ourselves. I help folx understand their patterns and find ways to modify or strengthen them for a more embodied life.

Welcome! I’m Kathy Brammer and I have worked as a therapist and counselor for over 20 years, mostly with adolescents and young adults. I believe that it is a privilege to work alongside my clients to help them to cope with difficulties, problem solve, and support them to feel better . In my view, therapy is a kind, supportive partnership, and a source of support and encouragement for every client.

Hi, my name is Dr. Sinead Cowins. As a therapist, my goal is to help you achieve your best self. It is my purpose to guide you through investigating your wants and needs, the thoughts that trouble you, and the life experiences that have impacted you. With a compassionate, gentle, and sincere style, I individualize treatment to the needs of my clients. Utilizing a strength-based approach, I can aid with a wide range of difficulties, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, unresolved emotional issues, the mind-body connection, self-esteem/self-empowerment, and creating meaning and purpose in life. Ensuring that I provide a safe space for exploration is something that I place in high esteem, and I believe it is essential for a healthy therapeutic relationship.

Caroline is a trauma informed therapist with over 25 years of experience in a variety of settings such as mental health clinics, elder care facilities, brain injury clinics, at hospice, and has been in private practice for over a decade. Her therapeutic approach is focused on nonjudgmental empathy and an integrated use of various therapy models, as a way to empower clients to be their best selves, gain confidence in their decision-making abilities, increase self care, improve emotional resilience, and overall life satisfaction.

Hi, I’m Cam, an LGBTQ-identifying therapist based in New York. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University at Buffalo and have been practicing for the past three years. I specialize in helping adolescents, teens, and young adults navigate their mental health challenges and regain a sense of control and empowerment in their lives. My approach is compassionate, affirming, and tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Together, we’ll work to foster resilience, self-awareness, and the tools you need to thrive!

Greetings! I'm a Columbia University trained NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I offer holistic, integrative mental health treatment backed by solid and reputable research. I blend mindful cognitive behavioral therapy and writing therapy with education on nutrition, exercise, meditation, and supplements. I've also trained with David Kessler in grief counseling and can help bring clarity and hope to the misery of bereavement.

Choosing to seek out therapy can be a difficult, but monumetus step. While changing behaviors and feelings is always tricky, it is never something that we need to face alone. I know that coming to therapy and committing to show up for themselves every week requires strength from my clients. Therefore, I strive to help them get the most out of their experience.

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.

Hello. I am a licensed Mental health counselor based in New York State. I specialize in ADHD and helping people of all ages adapt to authority and set healthy boundaries in the home, work and academic environment. Navigating often invalidating systems can be complicated, so I make my therapeutic approach as straightforward and understandable as possible by focusing on specific skills to help you thrive. I focus the first few sessions on past experiences leading up to therapy, including any prior experiences with therapy. This allows me to establish shared goals and expectations for working together.