Aetna Therapists in Tennessee

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. After completing my training at the University of Florida, I began practicing psychotherapy. My therapy approach includes strength-based counseling, insight-oriented therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have a specialty in working with people with chronic illness, disability and anxiety disorders. In my free time, I enjoy time with friends, traveling, SCUBA diving and spending time with my dog, Cubby.

Greetings, My name is Norman Shaffer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. I have been practicing as a social worker for over a decade now. I like working with adults who are actively seeking a positive change in their life. I like to partner with clients and guide them towards better outcomes and a healthier balance in life.

Are you feeling stressed out, zoned out, or off-balance? Do you feel like you're drowning under the weight of responsibilities, while others seem to be thriving? Have you been using social media, toxic relationships, or substances to numb or distract yourself from the discomfort? I'd love to try and help you find your footing and feel more like yourself again. Most of the clients I work with have a lot more in common than they realize. They are struggling...but they believe they SHOULD be able to manage everything! They believe they are somehow flawed or weaker than others. I want you to know it’s okay to be struggling. Prolonged stress and trauma from things like the Covid pandemic, social and political unrest, racism, homophobia, and bullying can greatly impact our mental and physical health. Anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms may be showing up as a way to say, “Hey, I’m not okay right now. I need to talk about this.” I am here to listen and help you navigate tough situations like these. I have a background in both mental health and medical social work. I have worked in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, community agencies, and addiction centers. My specialties are grief and loss, mood disorders, and issues facing the LGBTQ+ community. I have worked in this field for over twenty years, and I am more passionate than ever about helping others. I look forward to meeting you soon!

Greetings! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Tennessee. The past 23 years I have worked in a variety of therapeutic roles in a variety of populations. I specialize in treating trauma and women's issues, but I don't exclusively see women. My job is to make you feel safe and comfortable when doing the work, and I am pretty good at it. Looking forward to getting to know you and walk along your recovery path together.

Hey there, I am Hannah. I am a licensed clinical social worker passionate about helping people reach their goals. I am ready to help you find solutions or help you cope when there just isn't a solution. Mental health is a journey, and I will be there to help you every step of the way. I work in person in Chattanooga Monday's and Wednesdays, and virtual Tuesday Thursday and Friday. My hours are 9am to 630pm MWTh and 9am to 530pm Tu and F. I can see people in Florida, South Carolina and Idaho via telehealth. I accept most commercial insurances and TN Medicare and in the process of getting paneled with TN medicaid.

I help individuals navigate life’s challenges, heal from past experiences, and create meaningful change and empowerment. I specialize in working with addictions, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions, using a blend of evidence-based and humanistic approaches. My goal is to create a supportive, collaborative space where you can explore your experiences, build resilience, and move toward the life you want to live.

My name is Kelly Franklin and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP) in Tennessee. I specialize in helping individuals who are experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, and navigating significant life changes. I am passionate about providing a safe non judgmental space where you are seen and heard. Together we can outline the steps to reach your goals of healing and well being. It is such a wonderful journey!

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider for the state of TN. I have been licensed for over three years but have worked with the mental health field for over 13 years. I love creating a safe place for clients to be able to address root issues related to unhealthy behaviors and thought patterns. I've spent many years working with adolescents and young women in a variety of residential settings including a domestic violence shelter, a children’s group home, and residential treatment facilities.

As a therapist, I am rewarded by helping people realize their full potential. As part of that process, I take the time to develop a solid connection with my clients to ensure optimal understanding of their concerns and goals, and collaboratively develop a treatment plan that works for them. I am trained in several evidence-based therapies and utilize them to help my clients achieve their goals.

Hi, there. I'm glad you found my Profile! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. I've been a therapist for over three years and worked in a variety of settings. My favorite part about being a therapist is empowering the clients I work with to gain insight into their emotional experiences, grow their toolbox, and make changes to live a more fulfilling life!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is currently licensed in Arizona, Tennessee and South Dakota. I have worked with a variety of men, women, and adolescents over the last ten years. My intent is to always meet people exactly where they are at and help them overcome the challenges that life has given them. I truly believe that every person who I work with has a unique set of strengths, and by using those strengths the person has the ability within themselves to persevere.

Hi! My name is Virginia and I am an LPC-MHSP in TN and LPC in VA. I have been working as a therapist for 7 years with 5 of those years focused on children and adolescents and the most recent 2 focused on crisis interventions. I help children and adolescents work through life events and transitions. Recently I have started working with moms as they adjust to motherhood and help them recenter themselves.

Greetings: I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I am also licensed in Tennessee, my home state. I received my Doctorate in Counseling from the University of Memphis. I have been in practice for 20 years. Currently, I work with adult males with men's issues. The pressure of employment and maintaining healthy relationships impact men in unique ways. I help to help you become happier with your life choices.

With over 20 years of experience, Edward Korn is a seasoned therapist committed to guiding individuals from all walks of life towards emotional well-being and resilience. He is a graduate of the top-ranked University of Michigan School of Social Work and has worked with all populations by telehealth for the past few years. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, he crafts personalized treatment plans to empower his clients to face life's challenges head-on. Choose Edward for a therapeutic journey designed to inspire growth, self-awareness, and lasting change.

I am licensed to work with those in the state of Tennessee, USA. I have over 20 years experience working in the mental health field, 12 of those years specifically working as a therapist. My experience consists of helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, mood disorders, anxiety, & depression. I also have taught parenting classes, which allowed me to help parents in their relationship with their children. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). While I have been trained in various therapy techniques, I have found most relation in the Solution Focused umbrella utilizing Narrative therapy. Solution Focused therapy helps people recognize how to work towards what they want- including how Narrative therapy sees each person’s storyline from their past, separating themselves from their problem (instead of living stuck), and recognizing how they want their story to continue. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths to overcome your challenges. Different situations can take place without our ability to feel prepared. You can take time for yourself and begin processing, in a safe and secure manner, through teletherapy services.

Hello! I'm Patricia. Thanks for checking out my profile. Grief enters our lives uninvited and its impact can continue to effect us for years. It may have been the death of a loved one, either recent or long ago. It may have been a divorce or the break up of a romantic relationship. It may have been the loss of a treasured pet, or any of the more than forty other losses that a person can encounter in a lifetime. Regardless of the cause of your broken heart, you know that life is not as happy or fulfilling as you want it to be. Often, well-meaning people say to "be strong" or "just give it time" which can leave us feeling like we are doing something wrong or should feel differently. Sometimes, we simply tuck our feelings away, hoping that they will eventually disappear. In our sessions, we will uncover the misinformation and beliefs keeping you stuck and unhappy. Unresolved grief stems from the things we wish we'd said or done differently, better or more. You will learn how to discover and communicate those unsaid things, so that they no longer limit you or affect your capacity for happiness.

I work with adults who are struggling with effects of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, anger, and other issues. I want to provide a safe and supportive space for you to grow as you work toward your goals. Whatever situation you find yourself facing, you have value and worth. As a therapist, I have practiced in medical, in-home, and outpatient settings. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Hi, I’m Julisa. I am a masters level Licensed Professional Counselor, practicing remotely in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania. As a Philadelphia native and person of color, I am driven by my desire to provide healthy representation of breaking generational trauma. I aim to get rid of stigmas related to seeking professional help. I am passionate about using my 11 years of experience to help clients feel genuinely seen, without judgement. I work with adult individuals and couples on various issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bi-polar disorders, relationship concerns, body positivity, LGBTQIA+ concerns, women's issues, and life transitions.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where both therapist and client can show up authentically. I prioritize each client’s sense of safety and honor that trust is built over time. My approach is client-centered, relational, and trauma-informed. I love to laugh with my clients and also gently offer reflections, observations, and connections to support deeper insight. I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from multiple modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. I’ve been working in the mental health field since 2015, primarily in community-based settings, and I’m passionate about walking alongside clients as they reclaim their stories and build lives rooted in authenticity and self-trust.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee. I received my Masters from Lipscomb University and have been practicing for 8 years. My goal is to provide a safe space to build awareness, to identify communication barriers and to explore your thoughts and emotions as you transition to healthier quality of life. I desire to alleviate stigmas related to seeking professional help. I am passionate about helping clients feel genuinely understood without judgement. I work with adult individuals and couples on various issues including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, LGBTQIA+ challenges, women's issues, and life transitions. Jack Canfield said it best, "All the good stuff is outside our comfort zone.”

Hi, I'm Jessie, a compassionate therapist dedicated to women's mental health. Have you ever felt lost in your marriage or your motherhood? Do you feel like the stress and anxiety of daily life leave you with less than you desire for yourself or your family? With a profound understanding of the intricate ties between emotional well-being and relationships, I can help guide you toward healing. Drawing from my expertise in trauma therapy, I provide a safe space for addressing past wounds. My empathetic approach extends to addressing common struggles like anxiety and depression. With a nurturing focus on marriage and motherhood, I empower you to embrace your roles while caring for your mental health.

I am licensed in Tennessee with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in assessing clients with coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support them in that process.

I am a licensed clinical social worker working in a private practice in Chattanooga, TN. I work with individuals who are struggling with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I also work with adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, communication skills, trauma, grief & loss, body image, self-esteem, self harm, suicidality, and severe mental illness. I have completed the 2 day PSI Certificate Course as well as the Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Course. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness skills, as I offer genuine care, support and empowerment to my clients.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Tennessee and also have my PSYPACT authorization. I received my Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee and have been practicing for over 20 years. I am a generalist treating a variety of conditions across the life span utilizing a holistic approach. I believe in the integration of diverse services to enhance optimal interventions for children, youth, and adults. I help clients at every stage of life struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I specialize in helping people achieve their own definition of a healthier life in a supportive environment.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician in Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida. I have been practicing for more than 20 years using an integrated style of theories in counseling (CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Narrative, and Family Systems Theory). I believe the intervention should match the client verses "one size fits all." I see adults, couples, and adolescents via Telehealth.

Oquandryia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 7 years of experience. She specializes in providing compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating a variety of life challenges, including stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and personal growth. Her approach is client-centered, drawing on evidence-based practices to empower individuals to achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being. She is committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace.

It takes courage to surrender and reach out for help. I help people who are in Transition in their lives, whether it is loss of a person, a pet, a job, a relationship, or the secondary losses experienced through chronic illness, chronic pain and terminal diagnosis. I am a Transition Specialist helping people to be able to cope through the changes with dignity and grace. Lowering anxiety levels, frustration levels and assisting people in being able to manage the big emotions, difficult decisions and sometimes challenging relationships while going through the changes and transitions in life.

Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the states of Texas and Tennessee with 30 years of counseling and ministry experience. I began as a minister of the Gospel in the Southern Baptist tradition in 1993 working with the homeless to overcome the struggles of addiction and hopelessness in North Carolina and Tennessee. From there, I became a case manager in a rural oupatient behavioral health clinic helping the chronically mentally ill live independently outside of the institutional settings. As my family of five children grew, my wife encouraged me to join the military in 2007 and for the next 13 years we served alongside our Soldiers and their Families as a chaplain. There, I learned through experience how to work through the stress of multiple transitions, the unyeilding demands for time and energy, and the unjust nature of toxic environments. I learned how to support those who wanted to strengthen themselves and their relationships in these environments and to ultimately be at peace with who they are and who they want to be. As I have matured in my training and become licensed in marriage and family therapy, I have found that I now specialize in using Solution Focused therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals identify their strengths and the beliefs that are guiding their behavior. With this knowledge, people can begin to choose who they want to be.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in a variety of settings for 20 years. I enjoy working with clients and families to build upon skills and resilience that will serve them in their treatment journey. I have extensive experience treating trauma, mood disorders, self harm / suicidal thinking, anxiety and addiction. I believe clients can and should thrive in the therapeutic experience.

Life can be tough, leaving us feeling helpless and tired. You don't have to be alone during those times. When you're struggling with grief, pain, anxiety, or depression from the effects of traumatic experiences, discrimination, toxic environments, or substance use (yours or another's), Cox Family Wellness can help. We will support your strength and resilience, help you problem-solve, and, most of all, help you live into a new future. We are trauma-informed and certified in Autism-informed treatment. Dr Robert Cox and Cox Family Wellness provide a safe, quiet, confidential, professional space for adults and couples to discuss whatever is on their minds. I work from a mindful, compassionate approach that allows people to feel seen and heard. My experience is in crisis services, substance use, anxiety, and depression. I am glad to chat about your concerns and your resilience. I want to help you remember your power. If you would like to talk about the power of attachment, the stress in your body, and the uses of self-compassion and mindfulness, please call or email. We can talk once or often. Same-day and single-session appointments are available. Be good to you!

Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to get past symptoms of anxiety, depression or past trauma? It's common to experience mental health-related challenges in life and to get stuck at times. We're not born with a built-in understanding of how to be psychologically healthy, so sometimes it's a good idea to get a little guidance from an unbiased professional. My ideal client is motivated to understand themselves better and to make the necessary adjustments to improve their quality of life.

I am a native Memphian who enjoys spending time with my husband and two daughters. My career as a counselor began in the school setting where I served as a middle school counselor. I earned the nickname of "adolescent whisperer" from making deep and meaningful connections with teens and their families. I wanted to extend my services beyond the school setting, thus I earned the mental health license that allows me to practice outside of the school setting as well. I counsel from the belief that we are all imperfect beings working to navigate life’s challenges. I love to motivate clients to become the best version of themselves while attentively acknowledging their current situation without judgment.

As a therapist, I understand that seeking help can be a difficult and courageous decision; but it is also the first step towards change and growth. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I am committed to helping my clients navigate through their challenges and reach their full potential. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression ,or any other mental health issue, I am here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to heal and thrive.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee. I received by degree from Liberty University and have been practicing for 5 years. I help individuals, couples, and families who are feeling stuck in life or in relationships discern the root issues and walk toward healing together. My goal is to help each person feel more fulfilled in all areas of their life.

Hello, I am Emily and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida and Tennessee. I am passionate about helping others and seek to provide a safe place for exploration, healing, and empowerment. I am relational, compassionate, and strengths focused. I offer a space free of judgement to explore self, process experiences, and gain confidence. I specialize in identity work. This includes finding who you are when you go to college and are out on your own for the first time, exploring sexuality and gender, reconsidering values and beliefs, finding self after loss, and figuring out who you are in and outside relationships. I would be happy to offer a free consult to see if we would be a good fit! You can contact me through Grow or HealingEmpoweredCounseling.com. *I may have availability outside of hours shown on Grow

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Tennessee. I received my master's from the University of Tennessee along with a certificate for The Treatment of Trauma. I have been practicing for 8 years. I help people of all ages identify their triggers, process their trauma, and learn healthy coping skills and boundaries and how to improve relationships and self-care.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee (LCSW) and Massachusetts (LICSW) with over 20 years of experience guiding individuals through life's challenges. I understand that life's path isn't always straight; transitions, trauma, grief, depression, and relationship struggles are real. I believe in the transformative power of collaboration and growth. With a MA in Social Work from Georgia State University and dual BAs from UMBC, my diverse background equips me to provide tailored therapy and counseling. My compassionate, non-judgmental, honest, and down-to-earth approach creates a safe space where I walk beside you on your journey to healing and growth. NOT CURRENTLY OPEN TO COUPLES.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my Masters from Aurora University. I have specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT and have spent the last 19 years of my career as a social worker and therapist working with all age groups. I provide a safe, supportive space for children, adolescents, and adults to process their experiences and develop healthy coping strategies.

I have approximately 30 years of experience in virtually all clinical settings. I began my career working in a juvenile penitentiary (referred to as a 'youth development center) and after almost 6 years, left that setting and moved on to new opportunities. Along the way, I worked with group homes, foster homes, substance abuse treatment programs, and even provided treatment in a sexual offender treatment program. In 2004 I went solely into private practice and currently operate two offices. I also provided on-site services to businesses that suffer a death or other disruptive event; I have provided over 170 of these services in four states during the last several years. While you don't need any faith to see me, I also offer Christian Counseling. Finally, I am a US Army veteran and understand the challenges and needs of veterans. I operate under a practical approach that seeks to build on a person's strengths to achieve realistic, measurable goals. I utilize primarily cognitive behavioral therapy and reality therapy to help my clients achieve their goals and to live life more fully.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP) based in the state of Tennessee. I received my Masters from Freed-Hardeman University five years ago and have been working with people struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression since that time. I am passionate about helping my clients reclaim purpose and joy in their lives.

Hello, my name is Megan Fletcher, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about assisting my clients through life transitions and improving their quality of life for increased growth and self-discovery. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and getting to know ones self on a deeper level. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy. I take a holistic approach to therapy utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, Accelerated Resolution Therapy for relief from anxiety, periods of sadness, and stress. I am here to help you make measurable, achievable, positive, and specific goals to support your day-to-day and overall improving your mental and emotional well-being. I have 20y of experience in the health and fitness industry, my journey to becoming a therapist was focused on treating the person with a whole health model approach. This includes the 8 dimensions of wellness. Our first session is a time for us to get to know each other, gather information to set goals and objectives, and plan for your therapy experiences.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, graduating from Liberty University in VA. I have been practicing for 10 years. I have served all individuals from veterans coming home with PTSD, family's dealing with family member loss and or addiction, to individuals with mood disorders, and finally, I have served the younger population from pre-k to adolescents with various trauma and diagnosis.

I love helping people heal from the past and learn to thrive in the present; by resolving past trauma, creating adaptive belief patterns, fostering healthy habits and sleep, and establishing life with meaning and purpose. I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in TN and serving individual adults in Tennessee, Colorado, and Alabama. I have been in the mental health field since 1999 and in practice as a psychologist since 2010.

My journey towards becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist began in 2004 when I received my B.A. in Theater from Southern Connecticut State University. Knowing it was my passion to creatively help others, I began teaching children in diverse settings including preschools, elementary schools, community centers, homes, and camps. I was introduced to Drama Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy as an Early Childhood Educator and never looked back! As I continued working with children, families, and parents of all backgrounds over the years, I found myself becoming more intrigued with their social/emotional dynamics as opposed to the academics of the profession. My realization led me to The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where I pursued my M.A. in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Marital and Family Therapy. Since then, I’ve had many incredible opportunities to gain experience through the roles of a School Counselor, Program Therapist, Private Practice Owner, and Group Therapist. Through these experiences, I've grown immensely as a therapist by expanding the populations I work with and the specialties I’m able to offer.

I’m currently living in Missouri with my wonderful husband, our lovable dog, and two very sassy cats. As a military spouse and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through life’s many challenges. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alaska and went on to complete my Master of Social Work at the University of Maine. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I’m passionate about helping others find healing, growth, and resilience.

Hello, thank you for considering me to help you on your healing journey. I am an LCSW and I have been a mental health professional for the past 14 years. My style is eclectic and I incorporate relevant techniques from evidenced based practices, based on the individual needs of my clients. I am a holistic practitioner and focus on mind, body, and spiritual wellness. I provide transformational psychotherapy through my virtual office. In addition, I am a reiki master and have been practicing natural healing for 30 years. I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Based Therapies, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are my main evidenced based tools.

Hi and welcome. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been working in the social work and mental health space in some capacity for almost 15 years. I aim to provide a welcoming environment that creates the space for working toward and supporting your individual goals. I specialize in helping individuals who are facing issues such as anxiety, depression, obesity, substance abuse, life transitions and adjustments, as well as aging. My therapeutic approach is always client-centered, is eclectic in nature, and is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy. My overarching goal is to support my clients in identifying their strengths and gaining insight into their lives to ultimately live with greater peace and satisfaction.

I have been doing clinical counseling for 25 years, and unlike most providers, I have a doctorate degree in counseling. I believe that the extra education helps me to provide more thorough, informed, and helpful feedback for clients. I currently provide therapy on a broad range of issues including trauma, anxiety, substance abuse and mood disorders. I am also comfortable working with sexual, gender, and eating issues. I have experience as well with neurodivergence and autism spectrum clients. My passion in a clinical setting involves working with trauma and dissociation, in particular clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder. I believe in giving you tangible feedback and practical solutions. I intend to demystify the process of counseling so that you can truly benefit from your work. In terms of my own self-care I enjoy walking outdoors as a means of reconnecting with nature. Recently, I rediscovered tennis, and have been playing doubles with a local group twice a week. I also recently started playing ping pong and pickleball.

Hi! My name is Amanda and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I worked in the addiction field for 4 years. I have worked in the mental health field for seven years. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I love helping people overcome obstacles to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. I myself have dealt with my own personal trauma and I know how hard of a journey it can be. I am a major nerd. I love Marvel, DC, Japanese anime, books, and more. I bring to the table a non-judgmental environment where I hope you can feel at ease and safe.

Hello and Welcome~ My name is Rachel Baker and I am a licensed clinical social worker and cancer survivor who focuses on helping others to prioritize their mental health. I started my private practice to help others realize that prioritizing their life is a necessity, and not an option. I continue the work because I know that it is transformative once a decision is made to prioritize self.