Therapists in Texas

Hi, I am Vanessa. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or just find life hard? I am here to help you overcome your challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma. I can help you learn coping skills that you can implement to help you overcome these challenges. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is individualized to your needs. I can also help you process negative emotions or experiences. My experience in these areas comes from experience helping others with similar problems. I would love to be your partner in this journey of positive change.

Hello. I am an LCSW in Texas with 7 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with everyone from age 3+. I primarily use DBT and EMDR, and The Daring Way curriculum with my clients treating everything from anxiety, depression, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I have a very gentle approach to therapy leaving the clients in control of the work we do. I believ everyone can benefit from therapy and the key is individualizing it to fit your needs. If you are curious about trying therapy for the first time or looking for a new therapist, please reach out. I would love to work with you!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas, with a Master's degree from Baylor University. specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma, toxic relationships, and burnout—especially those who’ve spent years putting others first and are now ready to come home to themselves. Through compassionate, evidence-based therapy and holistic practices, I guide clients in calming their nervous system, reconnecting with their true self, and developing healthier ways to cope and thrive. My work is rooted in both professional training and personal healing, so I deeply understand the courage it takes to break old cycles and start again. Whether you’re feeling stuck, lost, anxious, or simply ready for more peace in your life, I’m here to walk alongside you. Healing is possible—and you don’t have to do it alone.

I am Sunny Alexander, and I’ve been in practice for ten years treating clients working in various job placements. I’ve treated clients working inpatient and outpatient at a hospital. I instructed Intro to Psychology at a community college and I’ve been in private practice for ten years. My unique counseling services create safe space for healing and self-optimization for individuals striving to find purpose and evolution of the self. Through healing and and self growth, my clients are able to let go of a ‘ceiling-paradigm’ to live more meaningful and enriched lifestyles. I help clients learn to cope in healthy ways with the symptoms that they experience and we work together to explore how to thrive versus survive.

I am a licensed professional counselor with 8 years of experience in Texas. I specialize in helping female clients (only) with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and coping with life changes. My approach to therapy is one of respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I understand that everyone has unique and specific needs, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet those needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

My passion is to help men & women who are losing sleep and suffering in silence from anxiety, depression, grief, fear, and past traumatic events. There are things that we’ve pushed down, ignored, or dismissed for years that finally need to be dealt with and let go. You can finally get the break-through and break-free to become the person you’ve always known you could become.

Hi! I'm a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I received my Master's from the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley and have practiced for several years. During my career as a psychotherapist, I have helped adults struggling with mild and severe anxiety, stress, and relationship issues become the best versions of themselves, create healthy relationships, develop self-worth, and see the future with optimism.

There’s so much power in forming trusting relationships. I am driven to form trusting relationships and advocate for the best interest of you. I'm determined to help you repair, restore, and recharge. Our sessions will be collaborative and engaging, with you being in the driver’s seat. Humor is one of my favorite ways to heal! I would love the opportunity to ride along on this journey with you. I offer a free consultation for you to get to know me and decide if we're a good fit.

I think we can all agree that life can get messy and overwhelming. Whether it's relationships, career, health or all three at one time. I provide support for those looking to make a change. I believe you are the expert on your own complex experiences and would be honored to collaborate with you on the road forward. "Each of us has the right and responsibility to assess the roads which lie ahead and those over which we have traveled, and if the future road looms ominous or unpromising and the road back uninviting then we need to gather our resolve and carry only the necessary baggage into another direction"- Maya Angelou

Tara Hayes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Yoga Instructor. She is the owner of Mind & Mat Therapy Services LLC, a private practice specializing in psychotherapy counseling as well as private therapeutic yoga and meditation instruction. She comes with more than 8 years of experience providing mental health support and services. She has worked in various therapeutic settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient community behavior health clinics and private counseling practices. She completed 200 hours of yoga teacher training in the School of Integrative Yoga Therapy in 2019. She works with clients of all ages affected by depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, substance use and relationship challenges. Tara goes above and beyond to focus on the unique needs of each individual. Her passion lies in helping people to know their power in healing themselves emotionally and functionally to move with more joy and ease in life.

Hi there, Do you feel stuck or confused in your mind or relationship? Are you desperate for a change? Or do you just need a safe space to process things? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Sex Therapist (Candidate) with a doctoral degree in theology. I believe in wholeness, that is Body, Soul, and Spirit and that is a goal I'd love to pursue along yours other goals. I see individuals, couples and pre marital couples.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has provided behavioral health services to individuals since 2011. My practice approach is to start where you are in your life. I will compassionately listen to help you gain insight and develop tools to cope with life's challenges. Life transitions are normal, but sometimes living life can become so overwhelming you need someone to talk to about it. My goal is to help you cope with these changes and to move forward.

Warm greetings to the Grow Therapy community! My journey in professional counseling began in 2019, leading me to work with diverse populations facing co-occurring disorders. I hold a Master of Science in Licensed Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, self-esteem issues, personality disorders, substance use, and eating disorders. I also assist with career challenges, parenting issues, and codependency. My approach is holistic and trauma-informed, drawing on therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. I focus on empowering clients to better understand and regulate their emotions, reframe negative self-narratives, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. I incorporate mindfulness practices to help clients stay present and grounded, while Narrative Therapy encourages them to reshape their life stories, leading to greater self-awareness and healing. In trauma-informed care, I ensure that clients feel safe, supported, and understood throughout their healing process. My goal is to provide tailored, needs-based care to help clients navigate their challenges with clarity and confidence. I aim to offer a compassionate, understanding space where you can feel empowered to achieve the outcomes you’re seeking. In my personal life, I enjoy spending time with family, our pets, and exploring the outdoors. Writing and photography are my creative outlets, allowing me to express myself and stay connected to the world around me. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting your journey toward growth and healing!

Hi. My name is San Juanita Diaz. You can call me Janie. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I have 26 years of experience provisioning counseling services to individuals, families, and groups. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Science in Counseling and Guidance. My experience includes: 15 years of providing counseling services to families involved with Child Protective Services, 5 years of working in nursing homes, and working in a variety of outpatient settings. My goal is to provide client centered therapy services based on clients individual therapy needs.

For over 15 years, I have provided licensed mental health services in Texas, offering compassionate care to adults navigating life’s challenges. My approach centers on mental wellness, and empowering individuals to find their unique balance. From anxiety and depression to trauma and substance use, I’m here to help. Through empathy, self-care and self-compassion, real progress and meaningful change are possible.

Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by your child’s behavior or unsure how to support them through emotional ups and downs? Are you a teen or young adult struggling with big feelings? Struggling with tics or other involuntary movements? Wishing relationships, boundaries, and social situations could feel easier or more natural? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out all by yourself. Whether you’re facing frequent conflicts, communication breakdowns, or feeling stuck in patterns that just aren’t working, we’ll work together to create more calm, confidence, and connection—at home, in school, and in everyday life. My work is especially focused on supporting neurodivergent youth and their families, including those with autism, ADHD, Tourette’s, genetic syndromes, or any developmental differences. This is an affirming space where all neurotypes are respected, and growth is always rooted in compassion and practicality.

I focus on adults, couples, and families utilizing a systems approach to help process and maintain a healthy individual self and the relationship. I empower couples and individuals to overcome personal and relational obstacles to help improve themselves and strengthen the couple's dynamic. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families in human services and counseling for eight years using clinically tested and evidence-based therapeutic models and interventions. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am trained in psychotherapy and view therapy from a systemic point of view, meaning that I believe the quality of our relationships, being family, friends, romantic partners, etc. plays a significant role in the quality of our lives. Marriage and family therapists broaden the traditional emphasis on the individual to attend to the nature and role of individuals in primary relationship networks such as marriage and the family. As a therapist, I take a holistic perspective on health care; I am concerned with the overall, long-term well-being of individuals, couples, and families. I have a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Mary’s University and a bachelor's in Sociology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. I offer relationship counseling and individual counseling for family and relationship issues.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). My responsibilities include providing effective evidenced based services and keep the best interest of the client as a forefront in the therapeutic relationship. Building rapport is essential to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship with a client. I believe in working at the client's pace to meet the client's goals in therapy. I have nine years of experience as an LPC and 21 years of experience in the mental health field.

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.

Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I believe in meeting you where you are in your journey and tailoring my approach to fit your unique needs. My goal is to provide a safe and compassionate space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll work to address challenges, set meaningful goals, and develop practical skills that can enhance your daily life. Whether you’re navigating overwhelming emotions, seeking clarity, or striving for personal growth, I’m committed to helping you process your feelings and discover new ways to thrive. You don’t have to face this journey alone—I’m here to help you uncover your strengths and move forward with confidence.

Welcome! With over two decades of experience in HIV care, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities involved, alongside a strong sense of cultural sensitivity. Originally from Mexico, I earned my master’s degree six years ago and have since dedicated my expertise to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. My focus is on collaborating with you to develop effective coping skills that address psychosocial stressors, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with resilience. Welcome to a space where cultural understanding and practical support come together, tailored to your unique journey toward well-being.

I am a licensed professional counselor in the State of Texas with 13 years of experience as a counselor. I have a master's in counseling. I have worked with a wide array of challenges. This includes mental health, life challenges, unhelpful thoughts, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and couples/relationship issues. I am respectful, non-judgmental, reliable and aim to create a warm environment.

I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find healing and growth. I understand the complexities of living in a culture different from one's own, which informs my approach to therapy. I serve adult clients facing issues such as depression, anxiety, low mood, familial problems, interpersonal challenges, and self-discovery. In addition to English, I am proficient in various different languages, allowing me to provide culturally sensitive and linguistically tailored support to a diverse range of clients.

My name is Iliana Escandon Morillon and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I enjoy helping my clients challenge and overcome anxiety, depression and other adjustments in their lives. It takes incredible courage to reach out for help and my goal is to provide a welcoming environment that help clients make positive changes to reach individualized goals.

Hi! I'm Ashley Lavine. I'm an LPC practicing in Arkansas and Texas. I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health. I have been in Mental Health for 12 years and a licensed therapist for 6. I serve clients 15-99 and love to help them reach the goals set for themselves. I often see clients who are ready to move forward with the help of therapy.

She received her Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2017 from Argosy University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She provides a warm, compassionate and caring environment to help people who suffers from trauma, depression, anxiety and substance abuse issues. She believes it is important to create a safe place throughout the therapeutic process. She utilizes an Eclectic approach utilizing CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR as well as other techniques. She works with individuals, couples and families.

I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of Texas, California and Florida. I hold a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. My baccalaureate studies included Human Development and Christian Ministry. I am an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Air Force. I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults with mood disorders, anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences.

Hi! I am a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I received my master's degree from Sam Houston State University. I am currently working on the credentialing process to be a registered play therapist. I work with people across the lifespan who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma/PTSD. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Gottman Method level 1.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas, I received my Masters from the University of Phoenix and have been in the field for 4 years. I help children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, stress, depression and relationship issues become the best versions of themselves. I believe that each of us has the potential to heal and the right to be empowered to live our best life.

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 have experience working with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, self-esteem, family conflict and life transitions. I have worked with individuals of all ages and all stages of life. 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.

Welcome! I am Mayra Ramos, LCSW. Seeking counseling can be quite nerve-wracking, not knowing what to expect and often doubting that it will actually help. But, counseling doesn't have to be so complicated. Counseling is about building a trusting relationship with your therapist, knowing that you can talk about anything that comes to mind. You don't have to second-guess yourself, as counseling is all about you. It's a place where you will be understood, where you will be listened to, supported, and where the ultimate goal is to increase your overall well-being. I strive to provide clients with a safe and comforting environment where they are free to express themselves. Clients will be able to explore their thoughts, current situations, address stressors, life changes, relationship conflicts, grief, and a multitude of issues. Together we will work to set boundaries, improve relationships, increase healthy coping skills, and live a more joyful life. I am experienced with adults and children over 12 years old.

My name is Maudlyn Howell-Nwaogwugwu. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. I obtained my master's degree in counseling psychology in 2005 and my bachelor’s in psychology/sociology in 1996. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and currently in private practice. I have experienced trauma in my life that has shaped the foundation of this ministry of help and the direction of my life. I am a scientist of the soul and passionate about your reservoir of truth. I am a servant called to the ministry of help. I am an experienced therapist dedicated to helping you overcome your anxiety, depression, and anger and looking at your traumatic events through new eyes. In other words, I help you develop and create new glasses. A portion of Jeremiah 8:22 says, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people...". I am not a physician but I consider myself a scientist of the soul. Most often on our journey home, we have experienced moral, soul, financial, spiritual, physical, biological, psychological, emotional and mental injuries to name a few. But, how do we navigate to find Shalom, aka "peace" to live the life we were created for? We often feel trapped in life's puzzle. So, take a moment and let's talk!

I am here to help you take off the mantle of other people and wear your cloak, then, you can be free to be you. A scientist with a niche for trauma, depression, mood and anxiety. I am here to walk with you, talk with you and listen to you.  I am EMDR trained.  I see EMDR as the Holy Spirit in action, cleaning and emptying the temple of all unnecessary clogs and/or blockages. In other words, the roof on a house needs a roofer to clean out the drainage allowing the water to flow freely

You are not defined by the words of others, but you are defined by your Creator. You are a Designer original. There is no one like you in all the earth. Welcome Home!

Hola! My name is Stephanie and I am an Afro-Latina from Panama. I know how overwhelming it is to start therapy for the first time or change therapists. I hope to be a safe space during your healing journey. We all have struggles and need support and that is what I would like to be for you. A safe space where you can make sense of life and learn tools to be the best you.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas and Louisiana. I received my Master's from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and have practiced for 10 years. I help individuals, couples, and families navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, marital conflicts, and career transitions. Using SFBT and a multicultural lens, I create personalized plans to foster resilience and meaningful change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Supervisor, with over 18 years of experience in the social work field. I am pursuing my PhD in Counseling and Psychological Studies, with a concentration in Biblical Counseling. I collaborate with adults navigating through stress and feelings of anxiety or hopelessness. Together we identify and develop productive coping strategies and new pathways of thinking. Our shared goals are to gain relief from stressors and experience improvements in your emotional, spiritual, and physical health.

I am a Licenced Professional Counselor in Texas and National Certified Counselor. I have a Bachelors from the University of California, Berkeley in Social Welfare and African American Studies, a Masters in School Counseling, and a Certification in Contemporary Mental Health Issues from Capella University. I have 20 years of experience working as a mentor, a teacher, and providing guidance to youth and families.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with 16 years of experience working with youth and adults from diverse populations. I take pride in assisting clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, and identity issues. Together we can identify what you want to experience and explore what is holding you back. We will work together to develop new tools that can assist you in breaking unhelpful patterns and getting on a path toward living the life you want. I offer appointments online throughout Texas and in person if you reside in the Brownsville area.

I am a Licensed professional counselor in Texas. I have five years of experience in the field. I have a PhD. in psychology and specialize in trauma. I work with individuals to develop healthy behaviors, so that their quality of life can significantly improve. I take a collaborative approach so that the client feels empowered and is able to be actively engaged in their treatment.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I received both my bachelor's and master's degree from Texas Women's University in Texas. I have been incredibly lucky to have worked with a diverse population of clients in the 11 years that I have been a therapist. I began my career working with children in foster care, spent some time as a mobile crisis counselor doing suicide/homicide assessments, and then moved into working with children on the autism spectrum and their families. For the past five years I have been in private practice focusing on individuals, couples, and families.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor enjoying what I do. I have been helping people improve their lives for over seven years. I help couples and individuals to navigate different challenges involving romantic, familial and other interpersonal relationship dynamics. I’ve been using CBT in my practice for the past five years. It’s helped so many of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other that keep you in unhealthy cycles.

Hello! I'm Arrione. Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt disconnected from yourself or from your life’s purpose? Perhaps you were in a hard place where it seemed like dark clouds followed you everywhere you went-and you just couldn’t find inner peace. I have been working with hurting individuals for nearly 10 years, helping them overcome personal challenges and awaken to the calm that internal harmony brings the mind and spirit. I am a multi-state Licensed Clinical Social Worker, holding a master’s degree in Social Work, and a baccalaureate in Psychology from the University of Central Florida. With a natural gift for connecting with others, I can successfully meet client’s where they are. Thereby, strengthening the therapeutic relationship, and effectively establishing trust which are the foundational components of various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing etc. As a faith-centered practitioner, I attribute the depth of my passion, vision, and professional ability to my continuous devotion to Christian beliefs. I have effectively demonstrated a commitment to serve those in need, in love, and free from judgment.

Hello, my name is Adrian Maldonado, and I am a licensed professional counselor. My work stems from a strength-based perspective using solution-focused, CBT, and DBT techniques. I have years of experience in treating depression, anxiety, anger, social anxiety, past trauma, family dynamics, couple dynamics and everything that falls in between. My treatment will be based on the client's needs, and helping you heal, or be the best version of yourself.

I'm a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker with a commitment to helping individuals navigate life's difficult challenges. Whether you're coping with a chronic or life-threatening illness, experiencing caregiver fatigue, dealing with women's health issues, or facing relationship struggles, I’m here to support you. I provide evidence-based therapies to treat Depression and Anxiety, helping you develop healthier coping strategies and regain control of your life. My approach is holistic, addressing not just the emotional aspects of your struggles but also offering practical community resources and referrals when needed. Together, we will work to understand and manage the complexities you're facing, with the goal of finding balance, healing, and empowerment. If you're looking for guidance, support, and a trusted partner on your journey, you're in the right place.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. My goal for all of my clients is to give them the skills needed to be able to function at their highest level independently. I work with my clients to help them think more rationally and function in a flexible and responsive way. I strongly believe if we can learn to respond to situations rather than react... we then stop and think... resulting in a more positive outcomes for our future. I work with my clients to aid in problem solving and improvement of reasoning abilities.

Hello there, I am Isabel. It takes courage to seek counseling. Congratulations on taking your first step. My goal is to provide a safe, judgement free place for children and families to receive help and support navigating their struggles. I have always had a passion for working with children. I have experience working with trauma, grief, anxiety, self-harm and depression. I am a true believer in the importance of the client-counselor relationship. Therefore, during therapy, I will continue working towards building a therapeutic alliance while we explore ways to manage your present obstacle. Hola, soy Isabel. Se necesita valor para buscar consejería. Felicidades por dar tu primer paso. Mi objetivo es proporcionar un lugar seguro y libre de prejuicios para que los niños y las familias reciban ayuda y apoyo para superar sus dificultades. Siempre he tenido una pasión trabajando con niños. Tengo experiencia trabajando con trauma, duelo, ansiedad, autolesiones y depresión. Soy una verdadera creyente de la importancia de la relación cliente-consejero. Por lo tanto, durante la terapia, continuaré trabajando para construir una alianza terapéutica mientras exploramos formas de manejar su obstáculo presente.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) in Co, OH, TN, and TX. I received a master's degree from from Tennessee State University, and a doctorate in Education and Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University. I have been in mental health for over seven years. I help client struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. I also work with Aging adults who are having challenges with finding purpose after retirement.

I’m Cynthia T Burns, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over a decade of experience working with adults and children. I can offer helpful insights, suggest coping strategies, and provide emotional support for various challenges. I am trained in EMDR, CBT and motivational interviewing and use these modalities to help clients overcome mental health issues in order to have a better quality of life.

When important moments are interrupted by thoughts or emotions, getting through the day can be a challenge. I have the ability to find the root cause and present the issue in an easy to understand way with structure for a solution. I have been practicing licensed for 12 years. I help people find resolution to some of life's biggest challenges. I am a problem solver.

Hi and welcome. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Masters in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University and have been in practice for about 6 years. I have worked in diverse settings with populations to include teens and adults. I prioritize the individual's needs, values, and goals. Utilizing evidence-based techniques and interventions tailored to each client's unique circumstances can help facilitate growth, healing, and positive change.

Therapy with me is taking a journey through the labyrinth of your mind. It's a journey into who you are, or think you are, and why. It's narrating your stories through the use of a metaphysical philosophy of Epistemology, which is the study of Knowledge. Your subconscious and Shadow, the stories you tell yourself and where they came from. Mindfully exploring if what you see is Reality or just perception. It's family of origin, a examining the stories through a cognitive behavior eye-why you are the way you are, and what to do about it. How to interact from a place of authenticity without letting outside judgements play games with your stories.