Therapists in New York

I’m Jackie a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting adults through life’s challenges and transitions. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, codependency, relationship difficulties, and major life changes, helping them understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors interact and impact their daily lives. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique needs, providing a safe and supportive space to explore experiences and develop practical coping strategies. My goal in therapy is to help clients develop tools and strategies that promote lasting change, resilience, and self-confidence. Together, we work toward understanding challenges, setting achievable goals, and creating a plan to support growth and well-being. Whether you’re managing day-to-day stress, working through a life transition, or seeking to improve relationships and emotional health, I aim to provide guidance, support, and practical skills to help you feel more balanced, empowered, and confident in your life.

Hello! I’m Aida Valerio-Lerner. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who found my calling 11 years ago having discovered that I wanted to provide people with a therapeutic space to heal, grow, and ultimately transform. Are you going through a personal challenge or major life transition? Do you need a safe space to have your experiences affirmed and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and in need of support? Have you considered speaking to someone but are unsure of how to begin? Wherever you are in your journey, I want to congratulate you on exploring possibilities to receive help. Therapy, like anything new or unknown, can feel scary. When Wendy was learning how to fly in Peter Pan, her fear of “what if I fall?” was met with Peter’s response of “oh, darling, what if you fly?” Not only did she fly, but she also transformed! My therapeutic approach is gentle, warm, and trauma-informed to ensure your comfort every step of the way. I listen attentively and non-judgmentally, welcoming your authentic self. You can express yourself in English and/or Spanish as I am fluent in both languages. Together, we can overcome anything.

Thank you for reaching out! I have been in the field for almost 20 years. My goal is to provide a safe space for my clients to explore whatever they need to work on to reach their goals and lead a more healthy productive life. I look forward to working with you to achieve those dreams in the most mindful way possible

My path to becoming a therapist began with a deep curiosity about how our past experiences and family dynamics shape us. After gaining experience in a variety of settings—from in-home therapy and outpatient facilities to addiction treatment centers—I consistently observed a core theme: many of the challenges people face, whether it's anxiety, PTSD, panic attacks or relational issues, are rooted in our past experiences. These observations have shaped my practice, leading me to create a collaborative and gentle space where clients can explore these foundational issues. My goal is to help people build a strong sense of self-trust, leading to greater inner calm and more meaningful connections.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor/Licensed Professional Counselor (English/Russian-speaking) serving clients in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. I specialize in helping people navigate and overcome depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, and support those seeking direction when life feels uncertain. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can explore what’s holding you back, find clarity, and help you feel more confident, calm, and at peace. If this sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d be happy to connect!

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.

Hi ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with individuals and couples. In addition to my private practice,I have been an Adjunct Professor for 15 years in a Graduate Program in Mental Health Counseling. I am also an author of a number of books dealing with mental health issues. I feel honored to work in this field and have established relationships built on mutual respect. My focus has always been on proving my clients with practical evidence based outcomes that have enriched their lives.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with specialized psychoanalytic training at the William Alanson White Institute in NYC. I work with clients to get what they want out of life. I hope to connect with you through active listening to provide a secure and nurturing space to assist you in your self-discovery and healing. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion and empathy with the aim of helping you navigate life's challenges. Using a psychodynamic approach, we will work to uncover behavioral patterns which are impacting your life now. This process helps you gain critical insight to confront barriers that are preventing you from achieving your full potential.

Cynthia Rose has 20 years of experience working within the mental health field in the US and Europe. She has extensive experience treating mental health and substance abuse issues in jail and probation populations, domestic violence offenders, active and retired military personnel, and emergency mental health providers. She is an LMFT, is certified in DBT and is trained in EMDR as well as other modalities that can help.

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence and depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process

My name is Eric Yip and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York City. I received my Masters from Alliance University. Becoming a therapist is a childhood dream come true for me and with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field, I have worked in various areas, ranging from depression and personality disorders to child development and end-of-life issues.

Hi my name is Robin Carroll. I am the graduate of Marywood University with a Masters in Social Work. I specialize in trauma and anxiety. I help people identify the root causes of their anxiety and trauma s and work through them together. I started out my career as a care manager and I've worked with individuals that have been diagnosed with life-altering diseases, I have worked in trauma in an ER hospital, I have worked as a liaison for different communities, and I have worked in a mental health clinic.

Michael holds a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Applied Counseling from Lynn University, specializing in mental health and addiction. He’s driven by the transformative “breakthrough moments” when clients gain new clarity—whether through a fresh insight, a life-changing decision, or witnessing a loved one’s growth. "Every person's journey unfolds at their own pace," Michael reflects. "Being present for those transformative moments—when everything clicks into place—reminds me why I chose this path. If you've ever experienced that sudden clarity, you know exactly what I mean. It's what makes this work endlessly rewarding."

Hello, I'm Cassandra David and I have over seven years of experience treating professionals. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, low self-worth, attachment wounds, depression and the lasting impact of family and cultural expectations. My approach is functional, addressing factors such as movement, nutrition, and sleep hygiene to improve mental health outcomes. I often work with clients whom have been in therapy before and have a good level of awareness. They understand "why they think this way" but are looking for "now what do I do about it".

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.

I work with those navigating stress, trauma, and relationship challenges. Using attachment-focused therapy, humanistic approaches, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, IFS, and somatic techniques, I help you process trauma, understand patterns, and build resilience. I take a compassionate, client-centered approach, focusing on your unique goals, needs, and experiences, and supporting you in feeling safer, more connected to yourself, and empowered to create meaningful and lasting change in your life.

So great to meet you. My name is Kim, and I would love to work with you to solve and work through things that are keeping you up at night and things that are stopping you from reaching your full potential. Are you feeling sad, anxious, stressed or "fed up"? Many people are feeling just like you. Come and share those feelings and find ways to deal with the stressors that are holding you back. Over the past 18 years, I have worked with people from every walk of life who struggled with a large array of obstacles and together we were able to work with them in an enlightening, safe and positive space.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 12 years in the field. As a therapist, over the past 10 years, I’ve helped many clients - struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, stress, family concerns, life changes, and existential crises - rediscover themselves, cope in healthier ways, and implement change in their lives. I work with individuals, couples, families, and youth. I also have experience working with individuals with serious mental illness and chronic medical conditions. My approach is a welcoming and supportive one. I see therapy has a collaborative journey. Through exploration with you, I strive to help you find and understand yourself on a deeper level, to become aware of the areas in your life that may be impacting you, and help you better cope with life’s many challenges, in an open, non-judgmental, safe space.

Providing therapy, being a listener and helping others in essence found me. I did not initially plan to become a therapist but I am so happy and proud I did. I receive joy from being able to find the right words and work through the issue with my client. Therapy is a very important tool, whether it is intensive treatment or being a supportive ear. I have worked in the helping field for over 20 years. Beginning my career with developmentally delayed, then preventive services, foster care, Autism spectrum and currently providing child and adult psychiatric services. I enjoy the reward of helping! I am licensed to provide treat in New York and Georgia.

Freedom of mind. Don’t let worrying, about your past or current life stressors take up any more free real estate in your mind. Worrying offers NO RETURN on your investment. I’m Andrea Onukwue! It’s a pleasure and privilege to welcome you to Freed Mind Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Psychotherapy Privileges licensed to practice independently in the states of MO and NY. For the past five years, I've had my full-time private practice. Over the past 20 years, I’ve practiced in a variety of settings and contexts as a practitioner, C-suite executive employee assistance consultant, and senior executive leader. I’m dually credentialed as a psychotherapist and educational leader. I know people and have extensive experience journeying with individuals from all walks of life, as they seek greater clarity, wellness, fulfillment, and peace. My clients describe me as: Honest, easy to talk to, and highly competent in providing goal-directed care that achieves results. Levity and life application are always an integrated aspect of normalizing the treatment experience. My approach emphasizes cultivating a freed mindset as essential to a healthy, productive, and enjoyable life. It also emphasizes improving communication, managing expectations, and establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in interpersonal connections. Something that stands out about where I offer therapy is: Your telehealth session can occur in your own indoor or outdoor private space as long as you have a stable connection, are comfortable, and not operating a vehicle in your state of residence.

Hi there, my name is Jillian and I am a LMHC-D in the state of New York. Welcome to my practice! I specialize in working with adults facing anxiety/ OCD, trauma-related experiences, and grief & loss. My passion is to help you live the life you have envisioned for yourself. This may look like restructuring anxious thought patterns, setting healthy boundaries, or processing a traumatic experience. My goal is to guide you to your emotional freedom, allowing you more space for a a meaningful life.

Do you wake up feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed? Does it feel like you are struggling to cope and not enjoying life the way you wish you could? Sometimes it's easy to get trapped in the endless whirlwind of negative thoughts and emotions. It can feel so isolating and discouraging. It seems like nothing you try works out, and it impacts every area of your life. I can help you end the constant self-doubt, stop people pleasing behavior, and break out of the negative patterns that don't serve you. We can work together to help you develop positive coping skills, improve communication and change your thought patterns so you can finally feel free, happy and confident to be your authentic self. When you feel ready to make positive changes, I'm ready to help you! Give me a call today, so we can schedule our first session and get you on the road to feeling better now.

My name is Elana Isser. I am a licensed clinical social worker. in New Jersey, New York, and Maryland. Together, we will build hope and perseverance in navigating life challenges and mental illnesses. I have honed my skills in helping you use your own strengths, while also learning new skills, to improve your mental health symptoms and overall quality of life. I will work collaboratively with you to create and sustain the change that you are hoping for. I will strive to understand who you are as a person as we are creating plans for change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who is well rounded and trained to look at the whole picture; your mental health, relationships, environment, and life circumstances, so therapy isn’t just about symptoms, but about real-life change. I understand how family dynamics, work, community, and culture impact well-being, and can help you navigate these systems effectively. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of upstate NY. I received my masters from Temple University and have been practicing in the field for about 10 years. Seeking help never seems easy at first. After stepping into a comfortable and nurturing environment you’ll soon start to feel the weight come off your shoulders. Creating a safe space for you to process your feelings, thoughts, and traumas is important to me. Your story is yours and I understand the courage it takes to share it with me. You are the expert of your experience and therefore my approach is to empower you through authenticity.

Hello I'm Madelynne, My training and experience has instilled in me a strong belief in my clients' ability to change their lives with support, understanding and compassion. My journey in this field is driven by my passion for facilitating safe experiences for clients' growth, and I feel fortunate to be able to continue to work with clients to gain valuable insights and to assist them on their own life's journey. I believe it is critically important to establish and build mutual trust in the therapeutic relationship and I prioritize this in sessions.

I have been a therapist for over 16 years in a number of different settings. I have developed a passion for joining with clients to see their whole picture, to understand the why behind who they are, to develop compassion for the different parts of yourself and to tap into the innate abilities, insights and skills you have to help you grow. I want to help you start to live a more examined life, one where you can experience more control.

Hi there. I’m Marlene, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and licensed in Florida and New York. I work with young and older adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, loneliness, family issues, relationship issues and loss. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Strength- Based Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy to help you make progress and start feeling better. Throughout my over 15 years of experience, I have been fortunate to work with children, and adults including home-bound adults, and seniors. Some of my areas of specialization include mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, working to reduce depressive symptoms and strengthening self-esteem. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and a Certified Grief Informed Professional.

To feel fulfilled and truly happy in life, we need to take care of ourselves from the inside out, and this is what I help my clients do in their therapy sessions. I am passionate about supporting my clients to help them achieve their mental health goals and live a more positive and rewarding life. I help clients to re-discover their mental and emotional strength and to persevere through life's unexpected challenges. Therapy is a collaborative effort, and I look forward to working together as a team to help you reach the full potential that you have always envisioned in your life. I have worked in a variety of settings such as outpatient therapy, community mental health, nonprofit, private practice, inpatient psychiatry, and school settings. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults of different backgrounds, ethnicities and lifestyles. I offer a non-judgmental and person-centered environment for clients to explore areas of their life that they would like to bring about change and work through mental health concerns. I will help you work through past, present and future challenges you wish to overcome. Contact me today to start the journey of improving your life and meeting your goals!

I’m a licensed mental health counselor with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life‘s challenges and transitions. My goals are to help individuals achieve their highest potential, develop healthy coping skills, and live the life they aspire to. I offer a supportive space where clients can feel seen, heard and empowered. Through our work together, my goal is to help you gain clarity, build resilience and move toward a more grounded and fulfilling life.

I am an experienced, thoughtful and caring therapist that will help you overcome or work on any issues, problems or concerns that you are dealing with. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, and I have worked with singles, couples, families, seniors, and adolescents. I am empathic and an active listener. I treat all of my clients with unconditional positive regard and respect. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach. Every client is different and has different needs and that is my focus. I work with the entire person to help them improve their mental health and over all well-being.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I received my Masters in Social Work from Fordham University in NYC. I work with adults who are currently experiencing depression and/or anxiety to help them discover the root of their concerns so that they can become the best versions of themselves. Since every individual is so unique, I use an individualized approach in talk therapy to help you overcome your challenges by gaining new coping skills and new ways to think about your situation.

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 have 19 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 and form positive relationships.

My name is Andrea. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of FL and NY. I have over 12 years of experience working with children and adults in inpatient and outpatients settings, including corrections. I was raised in NY by West Indian (Caribbean)/Asian parents. I then moved to FL where I earned my BA in Psychology and Masters in Mental Health Counseling. My passion is helping others figure out this crazy thing called life, and learn how to live with more satisfaction. My approach to therapy is person centered and may change from patient to patient. This means it will be tailored to each person's specific needs. I enjoy building rapport with my patients to help encourage a healthy therapeutic relationship and allow my patients to feel as comfortable as possible. So whether it's anxiety, depression, or trauma etc., let's figure this out together!

Dennis Konadu is a veteran of the US Army and a dual-licensed provider (LICSW and LADC). He has 18 years of experience working with individuals with mental health disorders and specializes in substance use treatment. Dennis earned his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work in 2007 and has been practicing ever since. Currently, he is working towards a doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology (PsyD) at Rivier University in New Hampshire. Starting mental health treatment can feel intimidating at first. You might have questions or feel uneasy about talking with someone. This therapist can support you with personalized, empowering, and respectful care tailored to your needs. Whether you're doing this for yourself or for someone you care about, you've come to the right place. Reach out so we can take the next step in your treatment, together.

Welcome to my practice! My name is Deb and I am a licensed therapist committed to meeting you exactly where you are at in your journey. Are you finding it difficult to reach a sense of balance and serenity in your current situation? You have come to the right place! I will help create a safe space for you in our therapy sessions to explore what may be preventing you from experiencing the life you desire. I use a gentle wholistic approach and will encourage you to move at whatever pace is comfortable for you. I also incorporate humor into sessions when appropriate. Through our time together, we will come up with ways to alleviate your symptoms and restore you back to a place of health. Seeking a therapist is a courageous step toward getting unstuck and moving towards the life you want - I look forward to working together!

Good Day. I'm Karen. Learning how to cope with change can be difficult. Are there times where you feel as if friends and family misunderstand you? Do you find yourself struggling with change making it hard to adapt to new environments? If so, I am here to help! I have worked in social services and mental health for over 10 years. As a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor for over 7 years, I have collaborated with agencies and organizations within New York City area to address the needs of individuals and families; including those who are struggling to heal from the impact of anxiety, depression and various addictions that can cause damage to the lives of both young people and adults alike. When collaborating with an individual, I provide support no matter your socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational, and other personal backgrounds. I am particularly sensitive to clients facing moments of transition, such as stress, loss, academic issues, employee issues, coping skills, marriage and family conflict; when the delicate balance can seem to tremble, and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt can emerge.

My name is Latanya. I am a licensed mental counselor in New York. I completed my studies at NYU and have worked and interned in various settings. They range from community preventive work to private practice. Currently, I primarily serve adult individuals and couples. I aim to create a warm and inviting environment, that way my client feels safe and comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings.

In my practice I value wellness for the mind and body. A comfortable and safe environment are my priorities, as we work towards meaningful personal and relational changes together. I rely heavily on body and nervous system focused practices, mindfulness and intentionality, as well as healing, relational, and experiential strategies. I will come alongside you to guide you towards connection, growth, and embodiment.

Have you been considering therapy? What’s stopping you from engaging in therapy? One of my goals is to destigmatize and normalize therapy, particularly in marginalized communities and expand access to therapy. As a therapist, I hope to provide a safe, supportive, comfortable, judgment-free environment that allows one to feel comfortable enough to open up and share their story and experiences. My focus areas are individuals coping with life stressors, depression, anxiety, family relationships and other diagnoses and stressors that are impacting your daily functioning. It would be a pleasure to walk on this journey of healing and empowerment with you.

Hello, thank you for learning more about me and how we might work together toward your goals. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in New York City and New Jersey. My approach to working with clients is strength-based. No matter what you have been through, you are resilient. I work with you to discover your truth and your authenticity within you. While my background is in trauma-informed care, I apply treatment modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectic behavior therapy, DBT and Talk Therapy. I adapt most of my methods to individual needs. I am a parent and an African American woman with a deep understanding of the intersectionality of race, culture, and class. I approach my work through an anti-oppressive and social justice lens with a deeper understanding of systems of oppression as they relate to race, gender, and sexuality. I always approach diversity in the room as a gift with significant room for the clients to teach me. I am a curious person and respect the uniqueness of every human being’s background.

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.

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 Cruz Rodriguez a License Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I'm a bilingual clinician with specialized training in various therapeutic modalities. I have provided therapy to adults impacted adversely by adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, maladaptive behaviors, severe mental illness, substance abuse, and/or family conflicts. My therapeutic style is person-centered and cognitive-behavioral, providing a non-judgmental environment where you could feel free to explore the issues impacting your existence. It’s through this exploration that I have witness many individuals become empowered by acquiring coping mechanism that allows them to improve their wellbeing and achieve goals in life.

*Currently accepting new adult individual clients via telehealth* I am a licensed mental health counselor in NY and FLA working in the field for 8 years in various different roles. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in group practices to hospital settings helping clients suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, impulsivity, and more. I use a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy helping clients understand their thoughts and develop ways that they can change their negative thought process to more positive thoughts to better their overall well being. In our first session, we will get to know one another better and decide what goals are important to work towards making the positive life changes that help you become the best version of yourself.

I am an LCSW in NY and CA, and an LIMHP in NE. I have over 30 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, phobias, relationship issues, anger, end-of-life issues, substance abuse/addiction, and many other challenges. I help people to identify and use their strengths, along with being aware of where they would like to grow and helping them to achieve that.

My name is Kathryn Vetrano, a therapist for over eight years who specializes in treating both biologically female adolescents and adults of color, dealing with mood disorders, borderline, personality disorder, and depression. I use a dialectical, behavioral approach to treat emotion, dysregulation, harmful coping skills, having trouble navigating relationships, and to cause an increase in quality of life. I work with clients to improve their emotional reactions to real life situations.

As a social worker therapist grounded in mindfulness theory, my dream client embodies a spirit of openness and motivation for change. This individual recognizes the challenges that come with personal growth but approaches therapy with a willingness to explore and confront these difficulties. They appreciate the journey of self-discovery and are eager to gain insights that can lead to meaningful transformation in their life. In our sessions, I envision a collaborative environment where they feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions. They understand that progress may not always be linear, yet they remain committed to the process. This client values the therapeutic relationship and seeks guidance to cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and mindfulness in their daily life. What I cherish most about this ideal client is their ability to reflect on their experiences and actively engage in their healing journey. They inspire me with their courage to face discomfort and their desire to learn and grow. Together, we would explore various mindfulness practices and therapeutic techniques, fostering a deep connection that empowers them to embrace change with compassion and patience. Ultimately, my dream client is someone who is not only motivated to seek help but also appreciates the support and insight I can offer. In this partnership, we would work hand in hand to navigate the complexities of their experiences, celebrating each step toward a more fulfilled and mindful existence. This collaborative spirit of growth and understanding is what makes the therapeutic journey profoundly rewarding for both of us.

I have worked for years as a clinician in an acute, inpatient psychiatric setting and have learned that I find working with trauma and stress related issues to be particularly rewarding in addition to working with clients to help manage mood, anxiety, OCD and depression so that individuals, couples and families can live an optimally functioning life. I believe clients are the experts on themselves and I work collaboratively to identify and implement strengths, needs and changes (as well as acceptance when change is not possible).