Therapists in Pennsylvania

I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups. My community mental health experience has prepared me to support clients through a variety of challenges, including life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger management, and relationship or family conflict. In my work, I value the role of humor in building rapport and creating a supportive therapeutic environment. I strive to remain open-minded and curious, approaching each person’s experience with a willingness to understand and learn. I also view constructive feedback as an important tool for growth and improvement, both personally and professionally.

Hi! I'm so glad you're here. As a board certified and licensed counselor, I believe counseling is a collaborative process and I strive to empower clients by honoring their strengths, insight and lived experiences. My clinical experience has primarily been working with individuals and families across a range of life challenges. I am especially passionate about focusing my work on maternal mental health and supporting military spouses.

You may be here because life feels overwhelming or you’re tired of carrying things on your own. As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, self‑doubt, and other stressors that can leave you feeling stuck or disconnected. My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized to your story, goals, and pace. I use evidence‑based practices alongside compassion and curiosity to help clients build practical tools, feel more grounded and confident, and move toward healing. I also bring experience as a former law‑enforcement victim advocate, with special insight into supporting survivors of crime, including domestic violence.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with teens and adults, individually or as families. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating/body image issues, conflicts in relationships, low self-esteem, or trauma, I can help you cope with overwhelming emotions and stressors. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and holistic. Together, we will find a way to navigate obstacles so you can feel and live better.

Hello! I have been a licensed professional counselor for over 15 years and I specialize in assisting those who have experienced or are currently experiencing toxic or abusive relationships. I also work with teens and adults who are experiencing difficult issues including life transitions, anxiety, trauma and grief, in addition to those seeking to better manage their anger and related impulses. I offer a unique and collaborative approach for each client. I can assist you with putting a plan in place to help you move forward, and we will celebrate your successes along the way. I use a person-centered approach, incorporating cognitive and dialectical behavioral techniques.

Hi there! I am a LPC licensed in Pennsylvania with 13 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have an undergraduate degree in clinical mental health psychology from Kutztown University and a graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling from Holy Family University. It’s tough to ask for help, but you’re here so congrats! I like to make this process as smooth and painless as possible for my clients because we all know that therapy is not easy. We will work through your current life stressors and/or past traumas together in a collaborative approach while building rapport, teaching skills, and offering validation along the way. I have worked in various settings with adults in a partial hospital setting (PHP), intensive outpatient setting (IOP-TOP), as well as an individual outpatient setting. I have extensive training in treating Borderline Personality Disorder with the evidenced based approach of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I am also trained in EMDR therapy as well as Prolonged Exposure (PE) in treating PTSD. As a mom of two littles myself, I thrive working with fellow moms, those trying to conceive, who are actively pregnant or struggling with pregnancy, and/or in the postpartum period in motherhood and also, within their relationship. I have completed trainings through Postpartum Support International (PSI) in order to support those experiencing Perinatal Mood Disorders. I am a strengths and skills based therapist looking to help you decrease stressors and increase skillful behaviors.

Sometimes we find it hard to ask for help when we are struggling. For you to read this profile you have just given yourself the permission to receive the healing compassion that you so deserve and I applaud you for taking that first step. As a therapist for the past 16 years, I have made it my mission to be there for people like yourself that struggle with a multitude of stressors, including anxiety, post traumatic stress, social anxiety, struggles with communication, phobias/fears and overthinking patterns to name a few. I specialize in trauma specifically with a certification in clinical trauma (CCTP). Clients who have experienced any level of trauma, can feel confident in working with me that we will process through the trauma itself and also learn how to cope with the everyday triggers and grieving process. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for both trauma related issues and for anxiety related issues. I also incorporate eclectic approaches to my treatment since every client needs something different when it comes to navigating how to cope with their struggles. I am empathetic and an attentive listener that will be your support for whatever your journey may be. My warm caring personality matched with some humor will help us to build a solid therapeutic foundation.

Hello! My name is Haley and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal as a therapist is to support and promote personal growth and emotional well-being using a trauma informed, strengths based approach. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore and process feelings, develop new tools to navigate life, and work toward your identified goals. I have experience working with clients to manage anxiety, mood challenges, substance use, relational difficulties, and life stressors.

Hello, my name is Jessica. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in PA. I have been in the mental health field over twenty years and have been licensed for over ten years. I greatly enjoy seeing people make positive changes in their life and enjoy life. I would like to assist you in making positive changes. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share. Congratulations you have made it this far. Let's take the next steps together.

The therapy I use is person-centered, and I also use some skills from DBT and CBT. While working together, we will explore how our relationships, both current and past, help us understand what is happening now. Our past shapes some core beliefs about ourselves. Through therapy, we can challenge these negative thoughts and work toward a greater, more fulfilling life.

I partner with clients to uncover their strengths and increase their daily functioning. My education and experience have focused on supporting teens, college students, couples, and adults who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, and motivation challenges. I take a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs. When working with me, you can expect empathy, reflective listening, and evidence-based techniques such as Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you move toward your goals. I understand that attending therapy can be difficult—time, energy, and motivation can all be barriers. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, build insight, and experience healing. I am an LGBTQIA+ and disability ally and welcome clients from all backgrounds and identities.

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Pennsylvania, with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Edinboro University (2017). Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting individuals through life’s challenges—first in social services and, for the past three years, in private practice. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and solution-focused. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I'm here to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward the life you want. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and I'm honored to walk alongside my clients as they work toward healing and personal growth. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be grateful to be part of your journey.

I have been a therapist and worked in mental health for many years. I truly love my job. I know that I cannot help every person I meet, but I am committed to offering kindness and my best efforts to do exactly that. I aim to offer clients kindness, make them feel more comfortable with even uncomfortable conversations and cheer them on as they heal on this journey.

Hello! I'm a white, queer, able-bodied cis-man who utilizes a variety of treatment modalities to best serve my clients. I'm a licensed clinical social worker and received both my Bachelor's and Master's of Social Work from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. I utilize motivational interviewing, harm reduction, CBT, DBT, and the Gottman Method to meet the unique needs of each client. I have a background in HIV case management, Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization, Medical Social Work, Homeless shelter services, and addiction. I like to be kind and supportive to my clients while also being honest and direct.

I'm Jade Leonard, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Army veteran, and trauma informed professional who's dedicated to helping people reclaim their lives. My journey in the military and as a mother has taught me resilience, discipline, and the quiet strength it takes to face life's toughest challenges, and I bring the same dedication to my therapy practice. I specialize in DBT, trauma informed care, and Solution Focused modalities. Through a combination of evidence-based strategies and compassionate guidance, I help clients regulate emotions, heal from trauma, and build the life they want. My mission is simple, to transform strength into growth, pain into resilience, and challenges into opportunity.

Hi, I'm Allison, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with six years of clinical experience, primarily in community mental health. I work with both children and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma-related stress. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals. I have extensive experience helping clients manage challenges that arise in work, school, and social settings, and I strive to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes. Whether you're facing a difficult life transition, struggling with overwhelming emotions, or looking to build healthier coping skills, I'm here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Hello, I am James a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over twenty years experience working with adults, teens and families across a range of settings, including outpatient, partial, drug and alcohol, home and schools. I enjoy working with adults and older teens struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, family struggles, life transitions, or realizing something that worked before is no longer. I believe that the most significant change comes from not just treating symptoms, but through recognizing and understanding our thoughts and emotions through the a holistic lens and empowerment.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strongly believes in therapeutic rapport with my clients. I have experience working in multiple different settings that has enhanced my understanding of the uniqueness of every client. I have worked with individuals presenting with multiple different concerns, and value each experience every client brings to therapy. I have worked with individuals across many different cultures and backgrounds, and strive to build meaningful relationships with all of my clients.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. I embrace supporting individuals through a collaborative care model. With a focus on building relationships, I help people navigate life's challenges by fostering open communication and teamwork. My approach integrates personalized strategies to promote resilience, ensuring each individual feels valued and understood on their journey of growth and recovery.

Being a Licensed Professional Counselor is a passion of mine as well as a career. I am committed to creating a genuine, authentic therapeutic environment where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. With experience across a wide range of clinical settings and diverse populations, I’ve learned that a strong therapeutic alliance is one of the most powerful tools for meaningful change. Drawing from a variety of evidence-based treatments, I tailor each treatment plan to the unique needs and goals of every client. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and rooted in the belief that healing happens when we are able to show up as our true selves.

Are you a teen or young adult struggling to navigate social pressures and responsibilities? A parent of a struggling teen? I help create self-esteem and establish proper perspectives when young adults feel overwhelmed. A full-time school counselor, Colin Smith has been working with adolescents both in schools and in outpatient therapy for nearly twenty years. Working in both public and approved private schools as well as community mental health has provided Colin with various learning opportunities. Areas of experience include individuals with anxiety, depression, self-esteem deficits, autism, and conduct disorders. He has provided individual, group, and family therapy in school, home, and office settings. Colin believes in the power of rapport building and establishing a strong therapeutic bond through trust, and a lack of judgment. His approach involves using individual strengths to foster independence and personal growth.

I believe in a holistic approach to care, applying basic principles and steps to achieve overall wellness. Considering a person’s physical, mental, emotional, and social health profile is my approach to help clients meet their mental and behavioral health goals and needs. I will assist with identifying negative thought patterns, as well as with implementing a plan which includes healthy lifestyle habits, coping skills , and practices to overcome barriers to leading a healthy lifestyle.

Hi. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania. I have a PhD in Educational Psychology and a Masters degree in Music Therapy. I also got a certification in Gestalt therapy by going to a 3 year training program. Over my career I have worked with many different populations and in many different settings. My basic approach to therapy is to use the tools and techniques that I've developed to help people become unstuck and to grow and to reach toward their full potential.

Hello! I'm Sophia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My background is in working with young people transitioning to adulthood. Navigating life transitions can be confusing and difficult, but also exciting and made easier with someone to support you along the way. I utilize an eclectic, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach. If you're looking for a therapist to help you understand yourself better, I might be the right fit for you!

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) located in Pennsylvania. I obtained my Master’s degree from Carlow University and have been working in this field for five years. My focus is to support individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and relationship challenges, guiding them towards reaching their maximum potential. In addition, I have experience working with individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, and I maintain a strong cultural awareness during counseling sessions.

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I have been practicing for 9 years and enjoy working with people from all different walks of life. I'm passionate about helping people live an authentic life and learn skills to manage their mental health. I enjoy creativity and getting outdoors. I try to include elements of these into therapy as all areas of our health are interconnected. I use a variety of approaches while keeping the client in the center. Some of these approaches include CBT and ACT while keeping a trauma informed perspective. I enjoy grief work and helping people process through this challenging time.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. My clinical work focuses on helping individuals navigate trauma, emotional distress, and complex life challenges through structured and effective therapeutic approaches. I specialize in the use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and trauma-focused therapeutic interventions. These modalities allow me to support clients in developing healthier coping skills, improving emotional regulation, challenging unhelpful thought patterns, and processing traumatic experiences in a safe and supportive environment. My practice is grounded in a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, where each individual’s experiences and goals guide the therapeutic process. I work collaboratively with clients to build resilience, increase self-awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

Hello, I'm Tatiana, a licensed professional counselor and a certified Gestalt therapist. I have a Master of Science degree in Psychology, a Post-Master certification in Clinical Psychology, and a certification in Gestalt therapy from the Gestalt Training Institute of Philadelphia. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence-based method for working with trauma, PTSD, and deeply ingrained patterns that stem from past experiences. Embarking on the journey of therapy is a courageous step, and I commend you for taking it. Recognizing the complexities that come with seeking help, I aim to provide a nurturing and empowering space for your healing and growth. I am committed to creating a space that respects and supports diverse identities and relationship experiences. My practice centers around creating an inclusive environment that acknowledges and respects LGBTQ+, as well as non-monogamous and other relationship styles. Whether you’re navigating monogamous relationships, ethical non-monogamy (ENM) in all its forms—including polyamory—or questioning your relationship dynamic, my approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and acceptance. Your unique identities, relationship dynamics, and lived experiences matter, and I am here to support you with openness and understanding.

Welcome, it is great to have you here! My name is Marielle and I have been in the social work field for 5+ years working with individuals with disabilities, at-risk youth, and in schools. My specialties within a therapy setting include working with individuals with chronic illness, disabilities, and anxiety disorders. While these are my specialties, everyone is welcome in this space. I look forward to meeting you!

It would be my pleasure to work with you! My name is Kim Sylla and I have been interested in the field of social services since childhood when I enthusiastically listened to the life stories of those around me including friends, neighbors and extended relatives. This interest grew with with my first therapist volunteer experience -- at the age of 20 -- with individuals who had substance use and mental health disorders. Since then I have had a wide array of additional volunteer and work experiences with adults and adolescents undergoing various life challenges at work, school, home and in the larger community. My varied experience, training and education prepared me to use an integrative therapeutic approach that draws on cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and ecological systems theory.

I grew up in a small rural area in Louisiana. I graduated high school from Port Allen High School and hold a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Psychology and Master of Arts Degree in Menthal Health Counseling from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Virginia. I have 22 years of experience in Counseling. I am also a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Therapist (BC-MTH) therefore theraphy sessions my be provided in person or via HIPAA compliant tele-network service. I have two sons, Bryson (22 years old) and Nicholas (17 years old).

My name is Sam Hunter. I have been working in the field of Mental Health Treatment for the past 8 years. I have been trained in DBT treatment through intensive DBT training for the past 6 years. I love to utilize a combination of skills training and validation to help clients reach their ultimate goals. I had further training 3 years ago and became fully trained in Prolonged Exposure treatment for clients suffering with PTSD. I love to utilize Exposure treatment to help clients work on conquering fears that get in the way of activities of daily living. I have experience with several clients diagnosed with trichotillomania as well utilizing behavioral skills and techniques learned through DBT. Using validation and teaching how to validates oneself are important pieces of the therapeutic relationship to me

Hi! My name is Samantha. I am a licensed counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I focus on building relationships with my clients to help them reach their goals. I understand that each person is unique and that every person needs an individualized approach. The majority of my practice focuses on assisting my clients to understand who they are, why they operate the way they do, and ways to build their ideal life

Hello! I am Kelly and I am a licensed professional counselor with over 8 years' experience helping others as they navigate their lives. Being person-centered and empathetic are at the heart of my approach to helping others. I strive to help others see their potential to create their own harmony in their lives. I want to help my clients feel empowered to face life's challenges by recognizing and applying their own strengths and abilities.

Hi! My name is Ron Lamb. I work with people of all ages to help them discover and be their best selves. I specialize in working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, family, health, school and work issues. I have experience in working with clients struggling with addiction and in recovery. I will collaborate with you to understand and find effective ways to cope with the life challenges that all of us have. I strive to see the strengths and inner potential that I believe all of my clients have. I look forward to meeting with you to begin this journey!

I’m Pam Sykes, a mental health provider with more than 12 years of experience offering online counseling to teens and adults, including individuals and couples. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I understand that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I take the time to understand what you’re experiencing and what you need to feel supported as you move forward.

I am Evelyn Mejias, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing compassionate telehealth therapy in both English and Spanish. With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in assisting adults as they navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and various life transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), alongside a commitment to empathy and cultural sensitivity. This methodology fosters a secure environment in which clients can reconnect with their strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and advance with confidence and purpose.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania. I received my Master's degree from Grand Canyon University, and I have been practicing for 7 years. I enjoy helping people change their thought distortions and think logically during difficult situations. I like to help them cope with difficult emotions and overcome life’s challenges. I enjoy observing people progress and improve their quality of life by improving their mental health.

I’m a dedicated mental health professional with over 10 years of experience in the helping professions, driven by a deep passion for supporting people in creating meaningful, lasting change. I specialize in treating anxiety and related disorders, grief and loss, depression, as well as relationship and attachment issues. I also have extensive experience working in addiction and behavioral health, supporting individuals through recovery with compassion, structure, and practical tools for sustainable progress. I also work with anxiety disorders and phobias, helping clients better understand their patterns and gradually overcome avoidance so they can live more freely. A core part of my work focuses on self-confidence and self-image. I help clients challenge negative self-beliefs, strengthen their sense of identity, and develop a more balanced and compassionate relationship with themselves. My approach is collaborative, nonjudgmental, and tailored to each individual’s goals. I believe therapy should feel both supportive and empowering—giving you the skills, insight, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges long after our work together ends.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from the Kutztown University and have been practicing since 2019. I have worked in various settings, including private practice and community mental health in the Mental Health, Intensive Outpatient (group), and Drug and Alcohol Programs . My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment to build rapport, collaborate, and achieve your recovery goals.

"The best way out is always through." - Robert Frost I'm an LCSW with 20 years of experience helping people through hard things. I've spent my career in community mental health, primarily working with children impacted by trauma and the caregivers who love them. Through telehealth, I am open to working with both teens and adults. I have a deep understanding of trauma, including foster care and adoption. I also understand the challenges that come from raising children who are neurodiverse and/or display trauma-based behaviors. I love working with adults who have parenting struggles or need support around managing challenging behaviors. I also love working with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I received my Masters in Social Service at Bryn Mawr College Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research with a specialization in child and family well-being in 2006. I'm a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and am licensed in both Pennsylvania and Florida.

Asking for help is hard. When life gets to be overwhelming, talking about the issues can help organize your thoughts. The therapeutic relationship is the most important tool we'll use! We'll work on building trust, a sense of safety, and open communication to identify how we can improve on your already existing coping skills, supports, and knowledge. I utilize an eclectic approach to best meet your needs. I believe that being kind and compassionate with yourself is the first step to healing and creating change. I enjoy providing therapy for women and adolescents 14 and up. I love working with women and teens on issues such as grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship/family problems. I can offer compassion and a safe space to explore what's going wrong and what we can do about it. Taking the first step is the hardest. I'd love to work with you on your journey to improved mental health.

I am currently working as an LCSW providing readjustment counseling services to Veterans, their spouses, and families. Throughout my education and current work I can make an impact on my clients by helping them learn the tools they need to move forward in a more positive manner with regard to mental health. My goal is to give my clients the tools they need to have the most optimal outcome.

Hello, and welcome to my profile here at Grow! I have been a professional counselor for over 20 years; I truly love what I do and all the clients I have worked with over the years. I look forward to continuing to help my clients in anyway I can, whenever I can, and wherever I can. Could you be my next client on the Grow Platform?

Hi! I'm Darian, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 7 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I've supported individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, stress, and life transitions. I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore thoughts and feelings they may not feel comfortable sharing anywhere else. While my background includes extensive experience working with men who struggled to open up emotionally, I enjoy working with adults from all walks of life. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges that often arise in their mid-20s to mid-30s, including relationship concerns, career stress, life transitions, and questions about identity and purpose. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each individual's needs. I believe meaningful change comes from a combination of self-awareness, personal growth, and practical support. My goal is to help clients better understand themselves, build on their strengths, and move through life's challenges with greater confidence and authenticity. Outside of therapy, I enjoy taking photos in nature, playing video games, and spending time with friends and family. These activities help me stay grounded, present, and connected to the things I value most.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling and Psychology from Chestnut Hill College, and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Temple University. I have experience in the behavioral health field working in community mental health, inpatient psychiatric rehabilitation, inpatient addictions withdrawal management and rehabilitation, and hospice care. I

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with 18+ years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with individuals of all ages, ranging from very young children to older adults. I have experience in group, family, couples, and individual therapy. I've worked in D&A and trauma as well. My wide variety of experience has allowed me to gain knowledge and insight, which has been helpful in assisting others with their concerns.

Welcome! I provide a safe space for those who are experiencing negative thoughts and feelings that impact their daily lives as well as their relationships with partners, family, friends, colleagues, and peers. After years of working as a social worker in hospice care and retirement communities, I have developed a passion for working with adults of all ages understand their internal and external responses to a variety of factors including life transitions, loss of loved ones, caregiver stress, family conflict, and unprocessed trauma.

I really enjoy talking about life in general and I hope to bring that to the therapy. I look at sessions like a conversation about psychology while providing structure to achieve goals. I hope that makes it interesting while remaining focused on you as an individual. I think life is very much about learning new things. This philosophy supports being a person who needs to learn and grow.