Therapists in Texas

Hello! I am an LPC licensed in Texas. I have been working as a school counselor for 5 years and have had experience in the following areas: school, career, trauma, anxiety, military, special needs children, and suicidal ideations. I have worked with clients from 6 years old all the way up to 19 years old and have been able to see them blossom and I am looking forward to working with you! By the way. . .I am also bilingual (Spanish and English)!

Hi, I'm Sylvia. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed? Feeling like you are not good enough? You are not alone, and you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you are dealing with a specific issue or just feeling like something isn’t right, my goal is to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and connected to your authentic self. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive space where you can begin to understand your experiences, heal from past wounds, and create meaningful change.

Welcome to therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have 6 years experience working with mental illness from Anxiety/Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Mood disorders, children/adolescents, substance abuse, and suicidality. I have about three years practicing fully licensed using CBT methods. I am now starting practice privately so that I can expand on other methods that give meaning to this career. I myself have gone through years of therapy and take each case with high regard in their struggles.

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 a husband, father, Veteran, and therapist. I know and understand the complex challenges that people face with behavioral health issues. I have been practicing for over 20 years. I am compassionate, empathetic, and direct. My goal is to help clients face their issues at their own pace and learn how to move forward in life. Regardless of the issues you're seeking guidance we can work together to find effective solutions.

Welcome! I'm Tiffany Newkirk. I applaud you taking the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. 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. I enjoy working together with clients to help the find peace in their lives. We all encounter struggles throughout our lives and sometimes we need to process our situations with a trusted individual so we can recover and experience the fullness of our lives. Let us start your path to healing.

Hello! I am licensed social worker serving clients throughout the state of Michigan. I graduated with my MSW from Grand Valley State University in 2013. I have worked within the foster care system, provided wraparound services for at-risk youth, worked with those experiencing homelessness and with Veterans and their caregivers. I work with youth and adults on developing positive coping skills, short and long-term goals to address anxiety, depression, life changes, stress management and other mental health concerns.

My name is Tim Johnston and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas. I own my solo practice, Waves of Grace Counseling. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I worked years in a community mental health setting and now private practice. My specialties are anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, mens issues, and grief and loss. I provide different research based strategies which include cognitive behavioral therapies, psychodynamic, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Christian counseling is also offered. These are the different 'roadmaps' that will help us get you to a place of healing, freedom, and peace of mind.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters and Doctorate from the University of North Texas and have been working with clients for 10 years. I help people experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms. I am also passionate about helping those struggling with fertility, as well as those struggling in the pre and postpartum periods.

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.

I am dedicated to aiding individuals in learning and embracing their true selves, overcoming obstacles, and crafting a life that is meaningful, satisfying, and genuine. HIP Mental Wellness Group was established to assist others in finding peace, tranquility, motivation, and completeness in their lives and relationships; it's about guiding you to the path of least resistance towards living your best life. With over 30 years in the helping profession, I am thrilled about aiding you in developing and creating a life you adore! Let's embark on this journey! Remember, the most crucial letter between B and D is C. You have the CHOICE to live your life with love and joy. Today marks the first step towards your future. Looking forward to meeting you soon!

I am licensed in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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.

Having worked in the educational field for many years, I chose to go into to counseling in order to help others who are in need of understanding, support and encouragement. Allowing someone to express their thoughts, feeling and helping them see or understand what may be holding them back or creating issues in their life is rewarding. My aim is help others learning how to manage and go forward with all they have experienced and encountered.

I’m a compassionate, client-centered therapist dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel truly heard and supported. I believe in meeting you exactly where you are and walking alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges, heal from past hurts, and move toward the life you want. I draw from evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care to tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. My priority is to build a genuine, trusting relationship where you feel empowered to grow at your own pace.

Hello there! I'm Stephanie, as a dedicated bilingual therapist, I've made it my life's work to help individuals of all ages navigate the challenging journey through anxiety and depression. 💛 Your Mental Well-being Matters 💛 Life can throw all sorts of curveballs our way, and it's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed at times. I'm here to be your anchor in those stormy seas. With a compassionate heart and years of experience, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to express your feelings, fears, and dreams. 💬 Let's Start the Conversation 💬 No matter where you are on your mental health journey, remember that you don't have to walk it alone. Reach out, and let's begin a conversation about how we can work together to bring light into your life once more.

Hi, I'm Ash. Thank you for being here. I know it can be daunting finding a therapist, so let's see if I am a good fit. I am dedicated to my work and my clients, and I can truly say, "I love my job". I understand the uniqueness of being human and owning complex emotions, therefore, my style matches my clients' needs. I do like to incorporate empowerment to help my clients recognize and utilize their strengths and insights to smash goals and become the best version of themselves.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who adores working with children and adolescents. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington and have been working in Community Mental Health services since COVID. I am a follower of Christ and I love helping people get through hard times, regardless of who they are or where they come from.

Shay Wilkinson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializes in evidence-based therapy for depression, anxiety, post-divorce recovery, post-breakup healing, and life transitions. Shay employs a personalized clinical approach to address each client’s unique emotional and psychological challenges. By focusing on resilience and overall well-being, Shay provides comprehensive support to help clients navigate and overcome difficulties, guiding them through transformative periods with tailored and effective strategies.

Life can be challenging. I can help you work through these challenges. I can guide you to work out past experiences or current situations to make your life easier to manage and be rewarding. I provide several types of therapy to help clients of all ages. My background consists of getting my BS in education in 1994. I received by ME in Guidance in counseling in 1999. I gained my LPC in 2017. I was a teacher for 6 years and as a Guidance Counselor in elementary for 18 years. I have been a licensed counselor for 3 years. I am more experienced in working with children but enjoy working with adults of all ages. I would like to help clients reach positive healthy ways to handle life stressors and negative events that keep clients from being in a peaceful and balanced stage of life. Reaching out for help is the best thing you can do for YOU!

Are you looking for a seasoned, well-rounded therapist? Peggy Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the State of Texas. Licensed since 2001, Peggy has extensive experience in the field of domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and relationship issues having worked with victims, abusers, child witnesses, and countless others striving for emotional wellbeing. In addition to being a counselor, Peggy is also Board Certified in Neurofeedback. Although not currently practicing neurofeedback, her experience and training in this area has given her great depth of understanding into how the brain functions and impacts personality and behavior. Additionally, Peggy has over 20 years of experience as a speaker on intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, and various topics related to trauma and mental health. Her most notable speaking engagements include National Center for Victims of Crime (September 2016, Philadelphia), International Society for Neurofeedback and Research Annual Conference (September 2016, Orlando), Conference on Crimes Against Women (May 2017, Dallas) and several presentations at the Conference on Crimes Against Persons in Fort Bend County, Texas. Throughout her career, Peggy has successfully trained dozens of counseling graduate students and licensure interns in their quest to achieve their professional goals. Also, working closely with prosecutors and private attorneys, she has served as both a fact and expert witness in numerous civil and criminal trials related to abuse and custody.

Hello, I'm Mari. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in working with various age groups, from children, adolescence, and adults to geriatrics. I help men, women, and children work through different struggles of life, such as, school, work, and relationships. I specialize in cognitive behavior therapy to work through anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and addiction. I help individuals gain control of their thoughts, their feelings and emotions; and bring them to a world of empowerment and strength to overcome many of lifes difficulties. The only way to get past it, is to go through it with support, compassion, and understanding. Some coping practices are mindfulness, art therapy, grounding, relaxation breathing, and journaling. I will listen to you and guide you through self reflection to gain awareness and insight in identifying the causes to your struggles. Everyone needs a therapist! Everyone experiences life troubles and difficulties. Getting through life is about the relationships we build and the most important one is the one with yourself because YOU ARE IMPORTANT and YOU MATTER! In our session together, you will be met with genuiness, care, and compassion to provide a safe place for healing and growth. You deserve this for yourself! I look forward to working with you and unveiling your brilliance and strength.

My name is Patricia Hernandez, M.Ed., LPC, CSTIP, MBIP. I am fully licensed as an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) with 3 years of experience helping adults, teens, elderly, children, and families in crisis anywhere in the state of Texas (Ah … the wonderful power of teletherapy!). Most of my life has been spent in Texas, which includes my master’s level counselor training from Sul Ross State University in Uvalde, Texas. I embarked on this journey to provide services to working people of all genders who’ve had trouble fitting in attention to their mental health because of their busy schedules. Virtual therapy allows me to do just that! It offers consistency because it fits the comfort of your home, car, or local park. So, snow, wind, or rain won’t stop us now! All sessions are virtual and I highly recommend you bring along your fur baby, blanket, and favorite beverage to the session.

Hi there, I’m Olimpia Do you ever feel hopeless? Are you struggling to keep up with basic day to day routines? Is it hard to give yourself some love? I help to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression by learning and identifying triggers , looking at it from a different perspective, and how to have a better relationship with yourself. I do have an eclectic approach that involves mindfulness, diet, exercise, meditation, and awareness. Whether it is anxiety, depressions, ADHD, or relationship issues, I am here to help. Therapy can be scary, but you have taken the first step to figuring out what is going on. Hopefully together we can get to the bottom of things and find the balance that is important to you.

Hi! I am Fanny Gradzikiewicz with 16 years of experience in the field of Mental Health. I have M.A from Andrews University. I specialize in Couple's issues such as communication problems, feeling disconnected from each other, through the IMAGO method. I also help individuals with Depression, Anxiety, Life transitions, of finding better Coping skills for stress. My wish of to empower you to a brighter future.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Texas for over 20 years. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My approach combines evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help you navigate life's challenges. Together, we will work towards understanding your unique needs and developing personalized strategies for growth and healing. I look forward to accompanying you on this journey toward a more fulfilling life.

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.

Hello, I'm Dennis Alvarez. Counseling should encourage and challenge individuals to meet their fullest potential by addressing their mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. I have a professional Psychology Doctorate as well as a post-graduate diploma in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My previous professional experiences include providing group and individual therapy as well as comprehensive assessments to adults in hospitals, substance use centers, and in private practice. When I work with clients, I like to help them understand how and why certain behaviors or patterns of behaviors occur. I work with individuals with a history of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse issues. I always seek to create a safe and therapeutic environment while remaining supportive and nonjudgmental. I will use our therapy time to encourage you to live your best, most authentic life.

***PLEASE EMAIL ME FOR SCHEDULING. WHAT IS ON HERE AS MY AVAILABILITY IS NOT ACCURATE. I HAVE OPENINGS AND AM TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I HAVE AFTER WORK HOURS AND WEEKENDS**** Hello! I am Stacy Hartso, a Boston native who now lives in South Carolina! I am an Air Force Veteran. I have over 5 years of experience. In psychotherapy, you are assessed in a holistic manner using a biopsychosocial approach and together we will work on areas of your life that are in need of examination and healing. You will feel safe and supported on your journey and will never be judged for being who you are. I empower YOU to become the best version of yourself. We will build tools and skills, and set maintainable and sustainable goals that will create lasting change. I am looking forward to working with you!!

Let ME help YOU unpack... your emotional baggage and lighten your load. As Erykah Badu sings in her powerful song, "Bag Lady," it's time to let go of all those heavy bags you've been carrying and start fresh. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, non-judgment, and collaboration. I believe that everyone can heal and grow, and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive environment to facilitate that process. I am a compassionate, culturally responsive therapist who specializes in supporting adolescent girls through some of the most transformative and tender years of their lives. I create a safe, affirming space where girls can explore who they are, unpack what they’ve been through, and grow into who they’re becoming. I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I commend you for taking that first step. So, let's put those bags down and start the journey towards healing and growth. When booking an appointment, please select a start time at the half hour mark. For example, book your appointment at the :30 minute mark.

Hi there! I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who has been in practice for over 20 years. I help adults manage the struggles of life- stress, relationships, caregiving, life changes, chronic health issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, etc. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of thing so I can utilize several different types of treatment modalities to help you reach your goals.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from Houston Baptist University and have been practicing for 6 years. I hold license to practice in state of Texas also Connecticut. I help teens and adults with different concerns and conflicts such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders also personality disorders to become the best version of themselves.

Hello. My name is Sarah. Do you ever feel like it's just not enough? The "it" could be any number of things. Your job, your relationships, your daily routines, etc.. Is it hard to find the good during the bad? I can help. Together, we can find what is holding you back and we can find the best way to navigate back to happiness. I feel you are the best one to know what you need and typically follow a person centered approach. I also integrate mindfullness and help you change the way you perceive things through your thinking. I am here to help in a number of situations. Whether that be relationships, anger, anxiety, and so much more. I enjoy working with children, young adults and couples. I believe everyone deserves a safe space to be themselves where they can evolve and grow into their best selves.

Hi! I’m an experienced mental health professional and I have worked in a state hospital, many treatment centers, private practice and in state correctional facilities. I enjoy helping people overcome obstacles to live their best lives. I have enjoyed working in the field of therapy for over 20 years. I have earned a BA in psychology, a Master’s degree in Community Counseling and a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Masters from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, GA and have been a Social Worker for 12 years. A majority of my career has been spent working in the medical field and mental health. I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds. I have experience working with clients with mood disorders, such as depression and bi-polar, to clients struggle with hallucinations.

I am a dedicated and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. With a Master’s degree in Social Work from Stephen F Austin University and a Doctorate of Business Administration in Healthcare Management and Leadership, I have a passion for helping individuals and families overcome obstacles and reach their fullest potential. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community and state mental health centers, corrections and skilled nursing facilities. This diverse background has equipped me with a broad range of skills and strategies to address a wide array of mental health issues.

Hi! As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years experience working in community health centers, out-patient facilities, and in a private practice setting, I most enjoy helping adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and recent life transitions such as career changes, divorce, and loss/grief. I will provide a safe and supportive space free of judgment and bias where we can begin a collaborative journey towards improving your quality of living and feeling more fulfilled in all the roles you play.

Greetings, welcome to Olive Therapy~a symbol of Peace. I am so glad you've taken the first steps to finding support and help to access healing and reach your goals. My approach is driven by client needs and desired outcomes, as well as addressing whole body health and wellness. I obtained my graduate degree in Social Work from the University of Texas in Arlington in 2016 and continued on to pursue clinical licensure to practice therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking help to find solutions to the challenges life brings. Clients who have issues with symptoms of Depression, Anxiety or who just need some direction are urged to schedule and see if we can find the peace you deserve.

Together we will work together to set your goals, identify barriers toward your goals, and build the skills you will need to have the life you are looking for! As a clinician, I will work diligently to help you uncover what has been holding you back. You need me because we all have blind spots and often when we are confused, it’s those blind spots that are impacting us and making us feel stuck. Once we know, we can move forward with compassion.

My passion is helping clients find the strength within themselves to create lasting change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have spent majority of my time working in intensive settings like inpatient psychiatric units and emergency departments, providing compassionate care during moments of crisis. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering them the resources and support they need to build a life they truly value.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Texas. I received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Abilene Christian University and my Masters in Special Education from Midwestern State University. I have been serving families of children with special needs for 13 years, and doing clinical work for 2 years. I help individuals and families of special needs navigate the complexities of life.

My name is Brenda Acevedo and I have over 15 years experience working in the mental health field in Texas. I am Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Bachelors degree in Psychology, and a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I started working with the State of Texas as a social worker helping the indigent population in 2010. Since then, I have worked with adults (men/women, LGBTQ-IA), children, couples, the elderly, and families. I have experience with the Intellectual Developmental Disable (IDD) population, Addictions, Trauma, and Crisis.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of life, relationships, and personal growth. Specializing in sex therapy, men's issues, and LGBTQAI+ concerns, I bring a nuanced, empathetic, and evidence-based approach to my practice. My work is grounded in fostering emotional awareness, self-efficacy, and authentic connection, empowering clients to overcome barriers and achieve their goals. I serve adults seeking support for a wide range of challenges, including intimacy and relationship concerns, emotional regulation, identity, expiration, and personal empowerment. Whether you are an individual grappling with cognitive restorations or a couple working to rebuild trust, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where meaningful change is possible. Through my integrative approach, which includes CBT, REBT and sex therapy techniques, I tailor each session to your unique needs. My goal is to help you identify and reframe limiting beliefs, strengthen communication, and Foster resilience in the face of life's challenges. The impact of our work together can be transformative. Clients often find greater clarity, deeper connections, and a renewed sense of purpose and agency in their lives. My practice is about more than just addressing problems- it's about creating opportunities for growth, healing, and thriving. Whether you're seeking to enhance intimacy, redefine your relationship with yourself, or navigate a significant life transition, I'm here to support you on your journey.

My name is Sally Tixier and I have been in practice for six years. I have a Bachelor's degree in psychology and sociology. I have a Masters in Forensic psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor. I am a certified anger resolution therapist, a certified trauma professional, and a certified anxiety treatment provider. I have worked with a diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience working with couples and crisis counseling. I have worked in both group and individual therapy. My goal is to help the client to define and achieve their short-term and long-term goals. I want to help clients develop effective coping skills that work best for them.

I believe the most important aspect of counseling is feeling comfortable with the counselor. You need to be able to trust who you are working with has your best interest at heart and genuinely listens to help meet your therapeutic goals. If I am not the right fit for you, I will assist you in finding the right counselor. I have over 20 plus years experience.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I am an Army veteran and have spent a lot of time working with soldiers and their family members. Both of my parents served, so I understand the unique dynamics of the military family. Additionally, I have counseled a wide range of clients with issues that range from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, goal setting, relationship issues, crisis situations and much more. I have also conducted PTSD and Caregiver Support Groups. My counseling style is to start where you are and allow you the client to be treated with the respect that you deserve. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Crisis Intervention and other therapy modalities when working with clients. I like to use an eclectic approach and tailor the modality that works best for each individual client or family as we are all beautifully and uniquely created. It is a huge step to go into counseling, so I commend you for your bravery. I am here to support you along the way.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master's degree in Counseling and Development and a bachelor's degree in Biology. I'm committed to creating an environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. I utilize evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution focused therapy to help you develop effective coping strategies and enhance your overall well-being. I have experience working with individuals facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and life transitions.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from a Texas A&M affiliate Tarleton State University in 2016 and I received my PhD candidacy from Texas A&M in 2022. I received my eye desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) certification in 2017, I received my registered play therapist certification (RPT) in 2017, I received my Imago couples therapy certification in 2019 and I received my clinical trauma profession (CCTP) certification in 2023. I have been practicing for 9 years. I help teens, adults individuals, couples and family to become the best versions of themselves.

I’m a clinical social worker, combat veteran, and proud spouse of both a service member and a first responder. Based in Texas, I bring eight years of experience supporting individuals living with severe mental illness and navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. My passion lies in helping people deeply explore their struggles, understand the forces that shape them, and reclaim a sense of control. Through thoughtful exploration and dedicated effort, we can move toward a more authentic and peaceful life.

Hello! My name is Justine Vaughn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a Certified First Responder Counselor. I graduated with my Masters degree in 2019 and have worked in a variety of counseling settings in order to gain experience and grow professionally. I have been working in the counseling field since 2012, and have experience working with adolescents and adults who have been dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and substance use problems. I am currently trained in EMD, CBT, CPT, and other therapy modalities. I work to help individuals achieve their counseling goals in order for them to better manage their emotions, feelings, and behaviors in order for them to become the person they aim to be.