57 therapists in North Carolina matching your needs
Take advantage of your insurance plan.. Schedule an appointment with a qualified and trusted North Carolina therapist that's in-network with your insurance provider. Browse different certified mental health providers below.Take advantage of your insurance plan.. Schedule an appointment with a qualif...
William Massengill
(he/him)
![William Massengill, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-3b3b7539-aabb-4ec2-8ef6-3d159aa3a0a5-provider19515.jpeg)
LCSW
9 years of experience
Direct
Empowering
Virtual
Hi, I'm William.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) trained to help people find solutions to their problems and concerns. I received my Masters in Social Work from East Carolina University and I have experience working with all ages.
Do you feel the pressure of career, family, children and a world full of tremendous change? I am here to help you maneuver what can seem like a complex maze. Each of us has the power to grow and face challenges and sometimes we just need someone to listen and help us find the right direction.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I love to work with all types of people to help them live and achieve their best life. Seeking and receiving therapy can be scary for some people. But it doesn't have to be scary. Therapy should be your time to enter a place where you will feel safe and respected to share your deepest thoughts and desires. Together we will work to help you achieve your goals.
Carmen Villate
(she/her)
![Carmen Villate, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-4a5e57b7-7085-43cb-b1e1-908fa2381114-provider27088.jpeg)
LCSW
28 years of experience
Intelligent
Open-minded
Virtual
Hola! I am a Hispanic, Bilingual (Spanish/English), licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina. I received my Masters from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and I 38 years of experience, which 28 years of those are post-graduated, providing therapy services, and social work services to the community. I have helped clients suffering with stress, depression, anxiety, parenting difficulties, relational issues, trauma, abuse, mood disorders, and much more. I believe in treating everyone with respect, empathy, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you during that journey.
Find therapists experienced in these areas
Julissa Edwards
(she/her)
![Julissa Edwards, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-d5b5fe70-24e4-482b-ae78-c1d54bb15a14-provider20332.jpeg)
LCMHC
10 years of experience
Holistic
Open-minded
Intelligent
Virtual
Hi there,
My name is Julissa.
Are you feeling less like yourself lately? Are you lacking confidence in yourself?
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life, struggling with making confident decisions for yourself and/or your loved ones, or experiencing anxiety, stress, and unease, I am here to help. As a holistic therapist, coach, and spiritual guide, I am uniquely positioned to support individuals who are seeking an easier transition into their new phase of life.
If you are ready to embark on a journey of personal and spiritual growth, I invite you to schedule a session with me today. Together, we can work to help you thrive once again, while breaking down generational traumas, and connect to your inner wisdom and spiritual purpose.
I'm proud of you for seeking out support at this time and I am so excited to get you back to a healthier version of you. See you soon!
Ben Hancock
(he/him)
![Ben Hancock, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-99b6ec4d-61a8-48f8-b66f-edf9542a5e77-provider26886.jpeg)
LCSW
5 years of experience
Authentic
Humorous
Virtual
Call me Ben! I've been in private practice for 5 years and the mental health field at-large for close to a decade. I'm a big advocate for mindfulness (and ACT) and how it can be used alongside and incorporated into the therapeutic relationship to make tremendous strides in addressing one's mental health. I live in Asheville, North Carolina with my wife and our two cats. I love to go hiking and kayaking, am currently learning Spanish and the drums, and love a good gaming session with my friends.
Heather Petersen
(she/her)
![Heather Petersen, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-d39c2f80-3e90-4f24-ac76-4b132e7ed33a-provider28947.jpeg)
LCSW
21 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering
Virtual
Hello there, I'm Heather. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or difficulty adjusting to life transitions? Are you noticing that things are overwhelming and more difficult to cope with because of the many stressors in life? Do you feel that you worry too much, are not good enough, or feel like you're stuck? Do you feel like you are all alone, that you have no one who really listens, understands you, or can relate to what you are going through? Well look no further because I specialize in alleviating anxiety, managing and overcoming depression, and adjusting to life transitions (such as parenting, relationship challenges, experiencing an empty nest, health issues, job loss, divorce, death of a loved one, or retirement.) It's a common experience to face these life challenges, but when those issues start to take over your life, it's time to get the support you need by working through this with a counselor so you can live a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina, licensed to see clients in North Carolina working virtually, and I'm also licensed in California. I received my Masters from San Diego State University and have been practicing clinical social work for 21 years. I enjoy working with individual adults who are struggling navigating the stressors in life, and we would work together to get you unstuck as soon as possible so you can live a better life, on your own terms. You are brave and have made an important step in the change process just by being here.
Mark Gough
(he/him)
![Mark Gough, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-111b43cc-b681-424b-90a1-baf2bc54500c-provider19180.jpeg)
LCMHC
27 years of experience
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Direct
Virtual
My practice over the past 25 years as an LCMHC has allowed me to help people of diverse backgrounds overcome a variety of life's challenges. I help people by meeting with them, learning about their problems and discovering ways for them to feel more at ease. The most common issues that I help people with involve their moods (for example sadness, worrying, anger or stress) and with their relationships.
All types of people come to see me; people just like you who have hit a bump in the road and want to help themselves feel better again. I've focused on adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, controlling anger, family conflict, substance abuse, and behavioral issues. If you're looking for someone to help, I'd welcome your call!
Maryanne Kudlek
(she/her)
![Maryanne Kudlek, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-6cc0a58e-8120-42ff-ad42-f627d94bbd97-provider28448.jpeg)
LCSW
10 years of experience
Solution oriented
Challenging
Humorous
Virtual
Hello there! I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with ten years of experience. I completed my Master's from Stony Brook University in Long Island, New York. Recently, I relocated to North Carolina, and I am honored to help adults of all ages who are facing various challenges with anxiety, depression, addiction, and individuals and couples who are struggling in their relationships.
Jennifer N Alfonso
![Jennifer N Alfonso, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-191ee8fb-41dc-488e-85cd-39d4bc0f69e0-provider18954.jpeg)
LCMHC
4 years of experience
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Virtual
Hey! Hola!
I'm Jennifer Alfonso, a Bilingual Mental Health counselor licensed in North Carolina.
-Soy Jennifer Alfonso, una consejera de salud mental bilingüe con licencia en Carolina del Norte.
My major specialty is working with grief, whether it be the loss of a loved one, a job, a dream, or one's own self-esteem.
I am a passionate and understanding therapist who values each person's unique strengths and goals. My approach is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and personal values. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, and trauma. I believe in the power of creating a strong therapeutic alliance in order to achieve positive results.
My own journey as an individual has provided me with compassion, empathy, and understanding of mental health. I am also committed to continuing my education and emphasizing the importance of self-care. I believe in creating a safe environment for individuals to openly and honestly express their thoughts and feelings.
Furthermore, I am excited about being part of the Grow Therapy team and am truly dedicated to helping you move towards the life you desire and deserve. I look forward to meeting you!
Queensly Onuzulike
(she/her)
![Queensly Onuzulike, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-69d92ffb-2f2a-4a73-8e37-a9ea5897cd9c-provider33717.jpeg)
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Queensly Onuzulike, MSW, LCSW, CGIP. I am an experienced psychotherapists with more than seven years in practice. My passion is derived from seeing my clients get better than they were when they first walked through the door of my office. I am an attentive listener, I am empathetic and non-biased/judgemental. I understand that each individual's response to issues/challenges are different and I am able to meet every client where they are. My fulfillment is derived from my clients progress and ability to effectively handle the challenges that life throws at them.
Jason Pearce, LCSW, BCD
(he/him)
![Jason Pearce, LCSW, BCD, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-685fa63c-2386-4b43-9774-54b348460274-provider22949.jpeg)
LCSW
12 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Virtual
I am retired Army officer and a licensed and board certified clinical social worker. I am considered a subject matter expert in a few areas, primarily cognitive behavior therapy. I chose to be a cognitive therapist because it resonates with me and because it works. Traditional talk therapy can be cathartic and have a relaxing effect, but you could do that with a friend at no cost. I value your time and money by utilizing evidence-based psychotherapy techniques to help you get better faster and learn the skills to help keep you out of a therapists office in the future.
Mary Freeman
![Mary Freeman, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-bafb41d2-2c8e-4213-91c4-f18300134bc8-provider20734.jpeg)
LCSW
9 years of experience
Intelligent
Direct
Virtual
I have worked in outpatient community mental health clinics where I’ve facilitated numerous groups to include DBT, Women’s, intensive substance abuse/misuse, impulse-control, basic coping skills, mindfulness, parenting, etc. I’ve provided mental health care in hospitals & treatment facilities. I presently work with numerous military families and thus, are aware of their unique challenges, as well as strengths. My diverse experiences hopefully offer my patients more insight and flexibility. In the end, I know we’re all more similar than different. We all want to belong & find happiness.
Dr. Lesa Cook
(she/her)
![Dr. Lesa Cook, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-89edc2ca-3ee0-4dc9-8e97-c4ba70a28852-provider23167.jpeg)
LCSW
20 years of experience
Warm
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Virtual
Dr. Cook specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused care for individuals, couples, and families. She is an experienced child and family therapist with over 20 years in the field.
Dr. Cook provides treatment for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mental health challenges related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various behavioral difficulties. As a nationally certified and rostered Trauma-Focused CBT provider, Dr. Cook is uniquely qualified to treat those affected by a childhood history of abuse and/or neglect.
Other areas of specialty include personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and grief/loss therapy. Dr. Cook uses a strengths-based approach that is solution-focused and practical.
Marc Lewis
(he/him)
![Marc Lewis, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-8202e4ee-ceed-4b39-a739-949c3046d641-provider22254.jpeg)
LCSW
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Virtual
I am Marc Lewis, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I completed training in 2003 at the Joint Master of Social Work program at North Carolina A & T State University and the University of NC at Greensboro. I was also part of the NC Child Welfare Collaborative, which provided specific training in NC DSS and child welfare. I began my career practicing as a child protective services social worker. I worked as a front-line worker and as a supervisor with children and families related to abuse and neglect. I have experience working in hospital and community settings. I currently work in private practice with children, adults, and geriatrics. I have experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused treatment, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I have worked with high conflict custody cases, and family reunification, and provided expert testimony in court proceedings.
My Credentials are as follows:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW)
Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, North Carolina Substance Abuse Practice Board, (LCAS)
Certified Clinical Supervisor, North Carolina Substance Abuse Practice Board, (CCS)
Certified Case Manager, Commission for Case Management, (CCM)
James Monaghan
![James Monaghan, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-75d4c914-8fce-4dea-94ac-a827f0769cbb-provider28055.jpeg)
LCSW
25 years of experience
Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent
Virtual
I am a board-certified behavioral health clinician, leader, and prior military mental health officer/veteran with over 25 years of experience providing what you need for a better way forward! I offer telehealth counseling, consulting, and occupational health services for high-responsibility professionals needing specialized expertise. This includes measured diagnostic evaluations, fitness for duty determinations, meeting prescriptive treatment requirements, and completion of narrative reports.
Marrianna White LCSW, LISW-S
(she/her)
![Marrianna White LCSW, LISW-S, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-8daa58b9-a8aa-4bc8-a0bd-02b913d15c60-provider31701.jpeg)
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi everyone! My name is Marrianna White and I am an experienced clinical EMDR therapist. I am passionate about working with diverse populations and providing a safe space for ALL individuals: BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and clients of all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities, and belief systems. My approach to treatment is a combination of Client Centered and Solutions Focused. Her therapeutic style is down-to-earth, genuine, encouraging, and empowering.
Denise Mason
(she/her)
![Denise Mason, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-69284f5a-b7e7-41c9-8f62-5ad79a1699f7-provider18800.png)
LCSW
23 years of experience
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
Hi! My name is Denise and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina and Florida as well as a Licensed Independent Social Worker- CP in the state of South Carolina and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Vermont. I specialize in mood and adjustment disorders such as depression and anxiety as well as trauma associated disorders, but have worked with a variety of disorders dealing with, but not limited to behaviors, relationships and grief. I am honest, open and direct, but warm and encouraging at the same time. I love to see the humor in different situations where some might not expect. I believe that humor can work in therapy when needed. I incorporate goal-setting for your mental health, personal and professional life. My counseling approach is client centered and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Stages of Change as therapeutic interventions that will help you with the issues you struggle with.
Amanda Chilleme
(she/her)
![Amanda Chilleme, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-40e7c40f-a325-489d-a816-86d65c626093-provider214.jpeg)
LCMHC
10 years of experience
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
A little bit about me, my name is Amanda Chilleme, I am a Florida and North Carolina Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Master’s Certified Addiction professional. For the last 11 years I have been helping my clients identify intrinsically important goals, overcoming obstacles, and build the foundation for a better future. My specialty has been working with men and women struggling with both substance abuse and process or behavioral addictions; helping them to find the pathway to a life unencumbered. I also have years of experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, bereavement, trauma, attachment, and personality disorders.
As a clinician, I utilize a human focused approach. I am not here to tell you what you need to work on; you already know the “what”. As a clinician, it is my job to help you understand the “why”, and eventually, the “how” (to fix it, overcome it, or just plain throw it away). Your first session, is essentially a two-way interview; as I listen to your story/narrative, and the “rough draft” begins to unfold, WE as a team determine if, 1) I am the right therapist for you, and 2) If you are the right client for me. If we both agree to move forward from the first session, identifying your goals will be your first assignment; giving you the opportunity to do this, helps me to better see how you think and interpret your barriers (i.e. stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, etc.). I am your coach, teammate, and cheer leader! We will focus on one goal at a time.
Whether you are just starting this process, or you have been in it for a while, I encourage you to plant that mustard seed, and watch just how beautifully you can grow.
Makeda Bostwick LPC LCMHC NCC BC-TMH
![Makeda Bostwick LPC LCMHC NCC BC-TMH, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-a2893068-9711-48c9-90d4-1e09fa31aef3-provider5786.jpeg)
LCMHC
13 years of experience
Warm
Open-minded
Empowering
Virtual
Do you feel pulled in different directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health balanced? Is it hard to be kind to yourself?
I help you manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll address the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I integrate both cognitive and behavioral techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the habits holding you back. Let's work together!
Susan Ennis MSW, LCSW, CSAC
![Susan Ennis MSW, LCSW, CSAC, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-4d3c4c9f-dc73-4020-b7b6-15a2f792d6d2-provider20568.jpeg)
LCSW
20 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
Virtual
Hello, and thank you for taking the first step in your journey to a better you! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor. My career spans twenty years of working with Adults, Kiddos and Families through the multiple stressors life can present. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, ADHD, Childrens Behavioral Issues, Illness Management and Trauma. I have an extensive history of working with Helping Professionals. I will bring to you my experience in current therapeutic models, and evidence-based modalities to help you find ways to cope at this time in your life.
Elaine Sawyer
![Elaine Sawyer, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-122899ce-3be4-4cd4-980c-b27eafb04735-provider32192.jpeg)
LCSW
20 years of experience
Authentic
Solution oriented
Virtual
Welcome, I’m Elaine a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), based in North Carolina, I’m also licensed to practice in Ohio. Counseling should be a conversation in a private, peaceful setting where you can explore issues that are impacting your life. In a private, peaceful, therapeutic environment I will listen to you without judgment, provide support, insight and feedback to help you address current or long standing issues that are impacting your life and possibly interfering with your emotional well-being. I have over 20 years experience working with individual and families to address mood instability, depression, anxiety, personal trauma, grief/loss, interpersonal problems, chronic illness and substance abuse. I specialize in working with adults from a holistic perspective providing individual counseling using diverse therapeutic modalities. I believe that therapy works best when there is a commitment to attend regular scheduled therapy session. I believe that individuals are resilient and have the capacity to heal from within. I believe in creating pathways for positive change. I believe “ life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learn to dance in the rain”.
Latoyia Miller
![Latoyia Miller, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-8a462849-a249-4146-bf45-f3d7d1cf8a83-provider18995.jpeg)
LCMHC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and Welcome! My name is Latoyia Miller, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician (LCMHC). I am delighted that you have chosen to work with me and excited to begin our journey together. Counseling is a collaborative process undertaken between you and a therapist, designed to empower you to accomplish mental health and wellness goals.
Kanisha Love
![Kanisha Love, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-ec8ff708-ab8f-4966-81f0-5d1ed9624547-provider18439.jpeg)
LCSW
10 years of experience
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
Hello there, I'm Kanisha! Are you dealing with a problem in your life that you're at the point of giving up? No, don't give up! There are so many ways and things you could do that can help you navigate through life's trials. It would make you feel better today than you did yesterday.
Can I help you along this journey? I am a mental health provider that has over 10 years of experience in helping those who are struggling with day-to-day life stressors. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy services to those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and trauma.
I am here to listen and help you with all your concerns and challenges. Please allow me to assist, while you lead and I follow. The best is yet to come!
Trina McDonald
(she/her)
![Trina McDonald, LCMHC - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-93e3a57e-b6e2-4c04-ae89-e9e65cade7e9-provider18429.jpeg)
LCMHC
10 years of experience
Empowering
Intelligent
Virtual
My name is Trina McDonald and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have certification as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have experience working with various populations through my employment with Social Services, The Division of Prisons, Camp Lejeune Military Base, Outpatient Treatment Facilities, and as a State Certified HIV Case Manager. I work in partnership with the client to impact change using an eclectic approach foundationally based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My interests include reading, meeting new people, traveling, and watching television the 70's, 80's and 90's. I
My favorite quote comes from Mark Twain who wrote, "There are two important days in your life; the day you were born and the day you find out why." This quote I believe in as I feel it speaks to purpose and being born on purpose and not by mistake.
I work with a client to build a therapeutic rapport as I feel this to be essential to making therapeutic gains. I embrace the elements of unconditional positive regard, being authentic and genuine, and empathy to help build that therapeutic rapport with a client. I consider listening, patience, acceptance, and honest communication, and observing healthy boundaries as my greater strengths.
I look forward to working each potential client in navigating through challenges to obtain mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social well-being.
Serena Faison
![Serena Faison , LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-57340adf-0a52-45c7-81cd-f93191459afa-provider33222.jpeg)
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Serena Faison, and I have been a practicing as a licensed therapist for over 16 years. I am proud to share that it was due to personal hardships that I encountered in my own life that I decided to help others. Not only has my knowledge of Psychology and behavioral therapy changed my life, but I have used it to help many others.
Linda Burbank
![Linda Burbank, LCSW - North Carolina Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-d36affb5-537b-489d-a412-f70f57fb8e28-provider18802.jpeg)
LCSW
30 years of experience
Direct
Intelligent
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing mental health therapy for 30 years. I offer a supportive, empathic ,safe environment for clients to explore issues they are dealing with. I am experienced in working with diverse populations including adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I find that helping people develop successful communication skills is a common theme across almost all client situations. Building on client strengths helps people address issues and create coping skills. My approach is individualized to the persons unique characteristics.