Therapists near me in Austin, TX

Hello! I’m Tami Quintana, a dual-licensed therapist (LPC, LMHC) with specialized certifications in addiction recovery (LCDC-I) and advanced anger management (CAMS-II). My practice is a holistic sanctuary designed for individuals at a crossroads—specifically women navigating the complexities of divorce and young adults facing life’s 'big' transitions. I believe that healing isn't just about 'fixing' a problem; it’s about honoring your whole self—mind, body, and spirit. My background is deep and diverse: I have years of experience walking alongside clients through intense challenges like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism, as well as those struggling with emotional disturbances, low self-esteem, or anger. Because of this, I offer a grounded, non-judgmental space where no emotion is 'too much' and no situation is too complex. I tailor my counseling for ages 8 to 55, using a blend of CBT, Solution-Focused, and Reality Therapy. We won’t just talk about the past; we will honor your entire experience to build a practical, empowering plan for your future. Whether you are seeking clarity in a transition or stability in a crisis, I am here to help you find your way back to balance.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience in inpatient behavioral health, where I’ve worked closely with adolescents and adults facing a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional dysregulation. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach to therapy and draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques. My goal is to provide a supportive and structured space where clients can build insight, develop practical coping skills, and work toward meaningful and sustainable change.

Hi everyone! I'm Antony Cantu (he/him/his), a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 years of experience across diverse settings, which includes 4 years of clinical (private practice, shelter) and 3 years in the educational setting. This unique blend allows me to specialize in areas like trauma, particularly intergenerational traumas and sexual identity challenges, while also addressing related issues like anxiety, depression, and family conflicts. Throughout my work with a wide range of clients, men and women alike, I've been struck by how truly individual we all are. Your unique experiences and perspectives are what make you special. By identifying what you want to achieve, we can work together to develop a personalized path towards a more mindful, embodied, and fulfilling life. Bilingual in Spanish and English, I've primarily worked with Latinx populations. I believe in tailoring treatment to your unique needs, blending traditional and innovative therapies to achieve balance and wellness. I commend your journey towards wholeness and look forward to working with you!

Greetings! My name is Rachel Childers and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from Lamar University and have over 10 years experience working with families and adolescents. I specialize in helping women and adolescents that are experiencing challenges in their life. This may be due to anxiety, depression, grief, experienced trauma, or a life transition such as being a new mom or adolescent school issues.

My work is simple: I care about people’s mental health wellness. If you’re navigating depression, anxiety, relationship stress, self-esteem struggles or substance abuse. I believe you deserve a space that feels safe, steady, and human. I work with adolescents (12+), teens, and adults. Whether it’s school stress, identity, life transitions, or long-standing patterns. You’ll be met with respect and confidentiality.

As a therapist, I am compassionate, grounded, and deeply committed to creating a safe space where clients feel genuinely seen and heard. I approach therapy with empathy, authenticity, and respect, understanding that every person’s story and healing journey are unique. I believe meaningful therapy begins with connection and trust. My goal is to help clients feel comfortable enough to explore difficult emotions, life experiences, and personal challenges without fear of judgment. I strive to meet clients where they are while encouraging growth, resilience, and self-awareness at a pace that feels manageable and supportive. My style is warm, collaborative, and person-centered. I value open communication and work alongside clients to identify strengths, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate life’s transitions and emotional struggles with greater confidence and clarity. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, grief, stress, or simply feeling overwhelmed, I aim to provide a calming and supportive presence throughout the therapeutic process. In addition to my counseling background, my experience as an ASL interpreter has strengthened my ability to listen carefully, communicate intentionally, and appreciate the importance of feeling understood. Above all, I want clients to know they do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone.

Hello! My name is Ranita, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I specialize in providing mental health services to both adolescents and adults, helping clients find relief from stress, trauma, anxiety, grief, and depression. As a therapist, I understand that seeking help can be challenging, but I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment to assist you in navigating your life struggles.

I am licensed therapist in Texas, Colorado and Illinois with 19 years of professional work experience. I am well versed in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence. I have 16+ years of work with the United States military both stateside and abroad. I have my doctorate in Clinical Psychology and I am certified as an Addictions Specialist.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I started my career as an educator and have over 20 years of experience working with children to teens, while collaborating with their caregivers. I received my Master's from Lamar University and have been practicing for nine years as a Professional School Counselor and LPC for three years. Also. I have my Doctorate in Education, which my dissertation was about how to restore and connect between students and teachers. I believe in the healing power of connection and support for students. I help children aged 5 to adulthood manage life’s stressors through many modalities that best meet my client’s needs.

I’m a licensed therapist with over five years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. I enjoy helping people work through life’s challenges, manage stress, and build healthy coping skills. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where you can be yourself, feel heard, and work toward growth at your own pace.

Who I Am as a Counselor I am a compassionate and dedicated licensed professional counselor with 7 years of school counseling experience, committed to helping you navigate life's challenges. I approach therapy with empathy, respect, and a focus on your unique needs and goals. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. What I Do In our work together, I use evidence-based techniques tailored to your specific concerns, whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or personal growth. My approach is collaborative, meaning we’ll work together to explore solutions that fit your values and needs. My goal is to help you build resilience, gain insight, and move toward positive change in your life.

License Professional Counselor in the West Texas Area who graduated from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin with a Bachelor's of Psychology and Masters of Arts Counseling obtaining my licensure and training in both inpatient and outpatient settings for 7 plus years. I have experience with a wide range of issues helping both the adult and adolescent during a time of need for growth.

Hello, I'm Marisol, a licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience providing compassionate and non-judgmental counseling services. I specialize in working with young adults, utilizing a person-centered and cognitive-behavioral approach, informed by trauma-sensitive practices. My goal is to support individuals in achieving their goals and enhancing their overall well-being. If you're seeking a safe and supportive space to explore your concerns, I'm here to listen and help.

My name is Jeanice Lewis. Thank you for reaching out to me. I would be honored to help you through your healing journey, or whatever else it may be. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 14 years of experience. I work with individuals and couples, ages 13 and older. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, blended families, self-esteem, spiritual guidance, postpartum, women's issues, veterans, military families, marital issues, premarital, adolescent issues, and trauma. I am Christian and see the value of incorporating it into therapy, but only as you are comfortable. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 14 years and have 5 children from all stages of life (toddler to a college student). On my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and children, doing mini vacations, doing crafts, going on walks and working out when I can, volunteering at my children's schools and activities, and spending quiet time with God. I give my clients a comfortable space to take their time talking and explaining their situation. I like to ask questions that lead down to a deeper understanding and come up with a solution and plan that they are comfortable with. I have heard of all types of situations and am non-judgmental. We can also schedule a free 15-minute call consulation so I can answer any questions and to see if I am a fit.

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself as a passionate practitioner for over twenty five years. My service includes a broad range of ages and issues with a primary focus on children and family dynamics. I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor-Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Texas. I received my Doctorate from the Texas Southern University, a Master's in Applied Psychology from Houston Baptist University and my first Mater's in Guidance and Counseling from Eastern Michigan University.

I am Robertha Moore, LPC, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting individuals and families in achieving improved mental health and overall well-being. I am licensed to provide professional counseling services in Louisiana, Minnesota, and Ohio through the Counseling Compact\\. I provide counseling services to individuals ages 5 and older and work with clients across various stages of life and personal challenges. I have worked in the mental health field since 2013 and became a licensed professional counselor in 2023. With more than a decade of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where my clients feel heard, respected, and empowered\\. My goal is to help each client develop healthy coping skills, strengthen emotional well-being, and work toward meaningful personal growth. Through my professional experience and commitment to helping others, I strive to provide compassionate, client-centered counseling tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I believe that every person has strengths within them, and I am committed to helping my clients recognize those strengths, overcome challenges, and build a healthier and more fulfilling life.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker who works with women, teens, and children who are used to holding everything together but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, especially in relationships or during life transitions like motherhood and adolescence. I often see clients struggling with emotional reactivity, communication, or feeling disconnected from themselves. In our work together, I help clients understand these patterns and build practical skills to regulate emotions, improve relationships, and feel more grounded, confident, and like themselves again.

I believe the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your story. During my 6+ years as a therapist I have helped individuals, couples and families find healing and understanding in all types of situations. My goals as a therapist is helping my patients free themselves from the shackles of their past and healing themselves from emotional pain. Ultimately my hopes is for them to find meaning/ purpose in their work, family, friendships and most importantly themselves.

Hi, I’m Hannah. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that being human—with all of its complexity—is something to be understood, not judged. I was raised in Western Kentucky and grew up as one of four adopted children in a transracial family, an experience that deeply shaped how I see the world. It taught me to value different perspectives, honor diverse identities, and approach others with openness and curiosity. I earned my Bachelor’s in Social Work from Murray State University and my Master of Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington, focusing on children and families. Over the years, I’ve worked in schools, nonprofit settings, and provided individual, family, and group therapy. More than anything, I strive to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are. My approach is warm, collaborative, and strengths-based. I’ll meet you with empathy and honesty, offering support while gently challenging you toward growth. My goal is to help you feel seen, understood, and empowered as you move through whatever season of life you’re facing.

My name is Josalynn Cartagena and I am an LPC. I graduated from CA-CREP accredited Sam Houston State University in 2018 in school counseling. After graduating, I began working in public education as a middle and high school counselor. I also worked for a tutoring company doing behavioral coaching for youth and for another private practice seeing clients of all ages. In 2023, I started my own bilingual virtual private practice, Sol Shines On, PLLC to help people find hope and feel valued, heard and understood to discover a better outcome for their life and future. I use the modalities of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Person Centered Theory and EMDR to process negative memories. I am constantly striving to grow myself with continued education, certifications and specialties to expand my knowledge as a counselor in ways I can continue to help you grow.

Hi, I’m Myrakle Betancourt, LCSW. I’m a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional, a doctoral candidate, and the owner of The Myrakle Space. I created this practice with one belief at the center. You deserve a space where you don’t have to hold it all together all the time, and where your growth is taken seriously, gently, and personally. If you’re a young adult figuring out what comes next after high school, college, or a major life shift, I will work with you to sort through the overwhelm, the uncertainty, and the pressure of “having to have it all figured out.” If you’re a professional in a high-demand role, especially first responders or mental health providers, I can help you slow down, manage stress, and address burnout before it takes more from you than it already has. If you’re coming in as a couple or a family, I’m here to help you actually hear each other again. We work on communication, understanding generational differences, and rebuilding connection in ways that feel real, not forced. And if you’re a parent or child navigating school, behavior, or emotional challenges, I focus on giving you practical tools and support so things feel less reactive and more manageable. When you work with me, you’re not just getting strategies you’re getting a space where you can be honest about what’s really going on without judgment or pressure. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you as you build something healthier, steadier, and more aligned for your life.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor living in Texas. I have experience working in public schools, prison settings, children's advocacy center, my private practice and online counseling. I enjoy helping people make changes that will benefit their best life. I work with children ages 10 and parenting skills for the family. I have several years of counseling but I know each person has his/her issues to deal with throughout the daily routine of life. My method is eclectic of many different modes of counseling rather than one direct approach that works for everyone.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the University of North Texas at Dallas. I bring a wealth of experience in working with individuals dealing with complex trauma and addiction, depression etc. I offer a safe, supportive space for personal exploration and growth. Our collaborative journey aims for positive change and improved well-being.

Do you find yourself experience hopelessness? My name is Lina Hinojosa and I aim to help people discover a deeper love for themselves, no matter the challenges that life presents. I draw from a holistic, strength-based approach that helps promote hope in any circumstance. I am passionate about empowering and helping clients experience growth, healing, joy, and self-acceptance. I specialize in: General Mental Health, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Depression, Personal Growth and Self-Esteem and General relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers). I hope to hear from you! Si se habla Espanol

Hello! I am Amanda, counselor of 18 years, wife of 20 years, and mother for 13 years and counting. I have been a resident of the North Austin area for the last five years and am a Texas native, though I did spend some time growing up in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. I am active in my son’s school, my church and my community which I am happy to call home. I have worked in domestic violence shelters, residential programs for children, with Child Protective Services, and in Private Practice. For many years I have had the privilege of joining my clients in the process of change. We go through so much in our lives. Love, loss, stress and anxieties shape who we are. I respect the courage that it takes to look at these things and seek growth and change.

Hi! I'm a LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS based in North Carolina and practicing in NC, SC, GA, TX, AZ, MA, ME, RI, NH and US VI. I received my Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University and two Masters from Webster University in Counseling and Health Administration. I have been practicing for over 20 years and enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have several areas of expertise and enjoy using them to support my clients in their overall life goals and plans for success.

Since 2000, I've dedicated much of my professional career as a life coach. In 2016, I began my journey to become a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in assisting individuals in managing their challenges. My approach integrates both intellectual and emotional aspects to support clients effectively. Using CBT, TF-CBT, and Motivational interviewing techniques, I provide structured, goal-oriented processes while focusing on achieving specific therapeutic goals. Addressing the needs of individuals who have experienced trauma by reducing symptoms of trauma-related disorders, such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety, among children, adolescents, and their families. Concentrating on helping clients explore and resolve ambivalence about change, the collaborative and client-centered nature effectively enhances motivation, promotes engagement in treatment, and supports clients in making meaningful and sustainable changes in their lives. Please contact me today to schedule a consultation.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing in this field for over 14 years. I earned my second master's degree in the field of counseling in 2011, from the University of Phoenix. My focus is on providing effective solutions to children/adolescents, young adults, adults, families, and couples. As a practicing therapist, all of my clients are very important to me. I will always strive to meet the client's expectations of me, as their ongoing therapist. in that I demonstrate professionalism, timeliness, high quality care that exemplify the best.

Welcome! I’m Dr. La Toshia Palmer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Beyond Greatness Global. I provide compassionate, culturally responsive therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, creating a supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, person-centered, and tailored to each client’s unique needs, experiences, and goals. I integrate evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, psychoeducation, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and practical coping-skills development. I also offer Faith-Based Counseling for clients who desire to integrate their Christian faith, spiritual values, prayer, and biblical principles into the therapeutic process. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, anger and emotional regulation challenges, stress, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, relationship difficulties, and other experiences that can affect emotional well-being and daily functioning. When working with children and adolescents, I strive to make therapy engaging, developmentally appropriate, and practical while strengthening emotional awareness, communication, coping, and problem-solving skills. I believe therapy is a collaborative process. Together, we explore your experiences, identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, recognize your strengths, and develop practical strategies that support meaningful change. At the heart of my practice is the belief that every person has the capacity for growth. My goal is to provide a safe, encouraging environment where you can gain insight, build resilience, strengthen confidence, and move toward greater emotional well-being and purpose.

As a licensed therapist in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. I offer a compassionate, faith-informed approach that honors each person's unique journey and inner strength. Drawing from evidence-based practices and a Christian perspective, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop meaningful coping strategies, and rediscover their sense of purpose. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build resilience, cultivate self-love, and move toward holistic wellness.

I am a man of God, family man and someone who is always here to help. I served 10 years active-duty Army and when leaving the service, I pursued a college education earning my degrees to help individuals who want help. I will help anyone regardless of ability to pay as long as it is ethical and said individual wants help. Life can be a struggle and we all need help sometimes, I have been called unhinged and I do use humor when appropriate as asking for help can be uncomfortable and I will do anything possible to help ease these feelings/thoughts. The power of Jesus and his word is unimaginable so expect this along with evidenced based practices.

My name is Yarinika Miller, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S) with 26 years of experience providing mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches into treatment, including Motivational Interviewing, Behavior Modification, Mindfulness, Grief Counseling, and Psychoeducation. I tailor treatment to meet each client's unique needs, strengths, and goals.

Counseling service is like having a personal trainer in the gym for our mind muscle; individually tailored guidance doesn’t hurt. We all have ups and downs in our life, work, family, relationships, and I'm here to support you through the things that are messy, challenging, and confusing with a safe space for you to just be yourself with no judgements. Let me join your journey of figuring-out, growing, healing, shining and thriving, and make the full access to life experiences with joy of living come true. I offer a free 15 minute consultation call. Feel free to contact me. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you.

My name is Marilee Melendez and I have been practicing for 5 years. I received my bachelors in Psychology from Texas Tech University and my masters in Counseling from University of Texas Permian Basin. As a first generation Mexican-American I deeply connect with how our cultural backgrounds affect our lives. I provide therapy in both Spanish and English. I have experience with trauma, immigration documentation, LGBTQ+, couples, children, adolescent, and adults.

Hi there, I’m Lynn. Do you ever feel like the stress of life is starting to take over? Are you wanting to bring back the excitement and joy you once felt in your relationships, daily activities, or work? Maybe you’re struggling to be patient and kind with yourself, or finding it hard to make the best decisions because everything feels overwhelming right now. I help individuals manage stress and anxiety so they can avoid burnout and emotional exhaustion. Together, we will explore your triggers, thought patterns, and the behaviors that are helping—or hindering—your well‑being. My approach is holistic, focusing on caring for the whole person. I draw from multiple therapeutic styles, but I frequently incorporate mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you build awareness, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful change. Whether you're overwhelmed by life decisions, navigating relationship challenges, or trying to break free from unhealthy cycles, I’m here to walk alongside you. I know seeking therapy can feel intimidating, but choosing to take this step is a powerful and courageous act. Having a safe, supportive space to process and heal allows you to grow and move beyond the obstacles you’re facing. In our work together, you can expect understanding without judgment, practical tools backed by experience, and a collaborative relationship focused on helping you move toward a more fulfilled and grounded life. I look forward to supporting you on your journey and watching you grow into the version of yourself that you’re striving to become.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Life Coach with 15+ years’ experience partnering with individuals, families, adolescents, and women to help them reach their goals and live more fulfilling and healthy lives. Dealing with stress, depression, work, family or personal issues? Balancing work, family, friends, and life can be overwhelming. Partnering with a therapist to overcome life's challenges can be essential to living a healthy and fulfilling life.

I have over 25 years of combined experience in treating individuals, couples, children and families. The core of experience has been providing life skills therapeutic intervention, implementation of counseling- mental health programs in the public schools in El Paso, Texas and the border communities. I have been a private practice Practitioner for the past 15 years in El Paso, San Antonio and surrounding communities. Fully bilingual Spanish and bicultural, trained and certified through Grief Recovery Institute and the Search Institute, EMDR trained and trained with ASL communication , play and sand therapist has widened my scope of experience significantly allowing to work with a large cross-section of the population. I am a true life-long learner and seek out new challenges and professional opportunities .Hablo espanol y puedo comunicarme con las personas que prefieren comunicarse en espanol.

My practice assists Black clients across North America who are impacted by a range of concerns including trauma, anxiety, and depression through a racially-sensitive treatment approach. We also work with individual clients seeking to improve their self-concept by understanding and processing the impact of historical and generational racial trauma on their relationships with themselves, their families, their friends, and their partners. I am a therapist who strives to fully understand my clients and their needs to create an optimized approach to meet their goals. I specialize in working primarily with individual adult clients to help them deal with issues such as infidelity, communication, stress management, anger management, relationship building, sexuality, etc. At Yolo Therapy, our ultimate goal is the well-being of our clients. For various reasons, many clients are unable to access traditional therapy settings but I do not believe that should prevent them from receiving exceptional services. I have catered my practice to the needs of those who need alternative options to therapy and am here to help you. ****Please note: Your initial session is ONLY TO ASSESS FOR THERAPEUTIC COMPATIBILITY. ****

Hi there! My name is Jaron Cotton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. While life is a blessing for us all, it can bring incredible challenges filled with stress that can seem impossible at times. My goal in therapy is understand your goals and work together to help you achieve them. True growth comes from challenging ourselves to process, reflect and adapt in a healthy way. Remember that asking for help and showing vulnerability is actually a sign of strength, never a weakness! I am available through telehealth only at this time, but may be accepting in-person clients in the future. Thank you!

Hi! Do you feel like you can improve your life; relationships, emotional stability, productivity, education, spirituality and health? I am here to guide you to find a balanced life and help you be the best you can be. I will use a whole self approach to address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Together we will find your balance by addressing the most pressing issues and continue to push through those obstacles holding you back and keeping you stuck. I am highly trained in research based therapeutic methods and also experienced through my own struggles and victories. I have worked with adolescents and youth for more than 28 years and I have also worked with children, families and adults. I work with the premise of unconditional positive regard towards my clients. The idea that mistakes can be corrected, faults can be forgiven and second chances is what makes us human. I believe in practicing learned skills, setting attainable goals, and celebrating small wins.

With over 10 years of experience, I help adults, young adults, and college students navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, overthinking, and relationship challenges. Many of my clients appear to have it all together on the outside, but internally feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to break. Many of my clients are high-functioning but internally overwhelmed, overthinking and emotionally exhausted. My approach is warm, supportive, and insight-driven, while also being direct and goal-oriented. I use evidence-based techniques to help clients build practical coping skills, increase self-awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change. I work especially well with individuals who are ready to better understand themselves, improve their relationships, and move forward with more clarity and confidence. I am licensed in Illinois, Nevada and Florida and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their growth and healing process.

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!