United Healthcare Student Resources Therapists in Austin, TX

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). My general approach to therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My practice has been focused on helping clients deal with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, and PTSD. I also have an extensive background in substance use disorder. I work primarily with adults over the age of 18, and selected teens.

Greetings! Thank you for taking the time to read this & congratulations on your first step to finding a therapist who’s right for you! My background is in trauma therapy, attachment focused, person-centered & cultural/relational model. Before I was a therapist I served in the military & love to work with women vets, LGTBQ+ veterans & folks in general & have a strong foundation in working with complex trauma & survivors of assault & intimate partner violence. I operate from an inclusive & anti-racist lens & work as a practitioner of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) with kiddo clients & Internal Family Systems as well as Somatic Embodiment practices as a way of helping clients to integrate their system after trauma. My dog & cat are usually in the room as I exclusively am offering telehealth at this time, so if that sounds like a good fit do reach out & we will schedule a free 15 minute conversation!

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience. I have been working with Deaf clients for the last 25 years since graduating with a Masters in Social work from Gallaudet University. In addition to Deaf clients I have worked with clients with multiple disabilities and their families to navigate the journey of self-advocacy necessary for their success. I find great value in every individual I work with and value their story, background and abilities. My goal is to help you identify the areas you would like to improve on in life and work through steps for your success. Related to my therapeutic approach my practice focuses on strength based therapy. Since you know yourself best my therapeutic approach is person-centered and solution focused.

"Hello, I'm Ashley Whitley-Mitchell, LMFT-S, the heart behind ThriveFocus Counseling. As a seasoned therapists and dedicated veteran, I bring years of expertise in guiding individuals through life's challenges. With a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, pre-marital and couples counseling, teen and adolescent support, life transitions, and military-related mental health, I'm committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to help you thrive."

Welcome to therapy! My name is Lillian, and I am Licensed Clinical Social worker in Texas. I have been working in the mental health field for about 5 years. I am excited that you have decided to take this step to reach your desired growth/achievement. Our sessions will be focused on your journey to possibilities and transformations; together we will work as a team to achieve these goals; celebrate one new step, one new milestone, and continuous progress.

Hi, I'm Attalie. Have you forgotten to take care of yourself? Do you often wonder what it would take to feel some sense of balance in your life again? We are faced with challenges and changes in life constantly. Making adjustments to pivot to meet the expectations of those changes often leads to feelings of overwhelm, disappointment, frustrations and a sense of depletion with no time to care for self. If you often escape, avoid, procrastinate or for that matter take on everyone else's issues except your own sense of wellness and health I am here to help empower you to develop and access your own inner resources and move toward self actualization and personal growth. I look at mental health in a wholistic sense. I mix mindfulness and decades of experience in fitness to help you find what works for you to live your best balanced life and find the fulfillment you need to step into the alignment of your purpose. Developing a strong relationship with self; defining your boundaries, recognizing your value systems and how they pertain to your way of being in this messy world are the staples to grounding yourself mentally. You are enough, you are deserving, and whatever you are dealing with now I'll meet you there. Let's work together to find tools that are intrinsically yours and get to a better you, so that each day is met with a sense of balance and well being despite the stressors in life.

Hi, my name is Stephanie Perez, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Austin, Texas. As an Air Force Veteran and Martial Artist originally from California, I am also a mother to two sons, ages 14 and 20. I received my Master's in Clinical Counseling from Colorado Christian University. In my practice, I am a spiritually oriented psychotherapist who employs various therapeutic modalities to help you align with your truest self. My approach includes mindfulness-based techniques, such as somatic approaches and Internal Family Systems, to aid clients in discovering their inner sense of self and direction.

Hi! My name is Mira and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Midwestern State University. I also graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelors of Arts in Human Development and Family Sciences and a concentration on Families and Personal Relationships. As a child of immigrant parents, I understand the complexities of inter-generational trauma. The weight of cultural and societal expectations can take a toll on one’s mental health. Family and religious pressure can also have a negative effect on our own identity and self-perception. I believe that no matter what our past has given us or what our future holds, we are capable of working through our life challenges. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients embrace their authentic self and discover new paths of healing and growth.

Hi There, I'm April Kitchens, LCSW I practice as a Licensed Therapist in the states of Texas as well as Mississippi. I am passionate about helping others during struggles in their lives. I have 10+ years of experience assisting others during some of the most challenging times of theirs lives. I have an extensive history in working with children, adolescence as well as young adults. We live in a world that we are in constant "go mode". Many of us feel as though we can't slow down long enough to process our life. The constant chaos along with trauma that many of us carry around can effect how to step forward in life. Im here to help. I want to see you break through to reclaim your tomorrows.

Tyler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas and Nevada. Tyler is accepting new clients. Tyler received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. Tyler has an extensive background in mental health and has worked with a wide array of clientele ranging from children as young as the age of five to geriatric. She also has experience working with clients in the following areas: trauma (sexual trauma, emotional and physical abuse), anxiety/depression, psychosis, and mood disorders. Tyler has worked in inpatient/outpatient settings, group settings, residential settings, and community-based social work. In her free time, Tyler likes to participate in yoga, running on nature trails, and painting. Tyler likes to express creativity and advocacy for mental health through her pieces. She also enjoys going to different art exhibits and learning about other cultures and their creative expression.

Hi, my name is Erin, and I’m here to help. By utilizing compassionate curiosity and evidence-based practices, we will work together to identify and change patterns and perspectives that are holding you back from experiencing the life you desire. Seeking therapy can feel vulnerable and uncomfortable, but you’ve come to the right place. I pride myself on cultivating a therapeutic environment that is warm, easy-going, client-centered and judgment-free.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been working as a psychotherapist for the past 4 years. I have experience in a number of settings prior to becoming a therapist including working at an inpatient psychiatric hospital for 4 years. I am comfortable working with adults with issues related to anxiety, depression, PTSD and life transitions.

Hi! I am an LPC based in Texas and I have been working collaboratively with my patients since 2013. My primary focus has been working with people who have serious mental health and trauma needs. I enjoy working with patients to help them develop hope for their future and confidence in their current and future goals and capabilities. I strive to continue to learn and grow and to develop new and innovative ways to help my patients.

Hello and welcome! I am glad you are here and I would like to help. Are you struggling with depression and anxiety, navigating a difficult life transition or stressful situation, experiencing sadness and grief over a significant loss? Are you wanting to experience more joy and gain confidence in your ability to face the often-painful challenges that life as a human being can bring our way? Do you sometimes experience overwhelming thoughts and emotions that lead to negative behaviors and mood states and get in the way of living your best life? Would you like to find a sense of inner peace, balance, hope and meaning? I enjoy working with individuals and adults of all ages seeking to make changes and learn coping skills to manage painful and unwanted feelings and resolve problems that arise, as well as couples seeking to increase connection and improve communication and conflict resolution skills. My approach draws from clinical training and experience in psychodynamic, mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral treatment approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals of all ages and genders, families and couples struggling with a variety of mental health issues and life transitions, and continue to love my work. A little about me: I am a partner, mother, daughter, sister and friend. I am nurtured by being in nature, hiking with my dog, reading, cooking, gardening. I am enjoying exploring the Austin area since moving from Massachusetts in 2021.

Hello. My name is Vanessa, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I currently reside in Texas after living a few years on Alaska! I received my Master of Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Texas-Pan American and have been practicing since 2018. I mostly work with adults struggling to process life and help them learn better coping skills to function successfully in their lives and society.

Christopher is a clinical social worker, licensed in Florida, Massachusetts, and Texas. For over ten years he has provided individual, couples, and family therapy and other services to clients in a variety of settings, including community centers, hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and via work in mobile crisis units. He currently provides online individual therapy for adults, utilizing a variety of common modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Christopher is also trained and certified in EMDR Therapy.

I’m Becks, a Licensed Professional Counselor & NASM Certified Personal Trainer who specializes in behavior change & nutrition coaching. You might also call me a guiding light toward overall wellness or a catalyst for growth & healing. My great passion as a Health & Wellness Professional is to help you build a healthier relationship with food & your body, cultivate emotional agility to freely express yourself, & be able to communicate your needs/wants to others more effectively. While I’d love to help you improve your mental health through movement & balanced nutrition, I also understand that everyone’s starting point in therapy can look very different. It would be my pleasure in meeting you where you are in your journey to help build your toolbox of skills so that you can lead the life you deserve to live.

After graduating from college with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a Micro Social Work concentration, followed by passing the Texas state board exam granting me a license to practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with individuals and families for over 25 years. My first post graduation position was Director of Child & Adolescent Unit at Intracare Psychiatric Hospital, followed by Director of Adoption Access, then Lead Therapist at St. Joseph's Hospital Adult Unit, and other agency and hospital positions scanning a 20 year period. My professional focus has always been to work with individuals, families and children in need of support, guidance and resources.

Hi! I'm Kendra, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas with a specialization in marriage, couple, and family counseling. I bring expertise in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, sand tray therapy, and play therapy amongst others. My focus is in trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I am passionate about mindfulness, grounding techniques, and helping individuals build self-care routines for a healthier, balanced life.

I am cisgender, female assigned at birth. I was born in Houston and raised in San Marcos, TX. I am from a Southern, poor and working class family of Ashkenazi Jews. My orientation to counseling is informed by paradigms of change and healing that I have been immersed in for many years, including Vipassana meditation in the tradition of S.N. Goenka and Sayagyi U Ba Khin, mutual accompaniment, yoga, mind-matter-body connection and the somatic phenomenon of trauma, DBT, ancestral and intergenerational legacies, Mexican Indigenous and African Indigenous spiritualities, social psychoanalysis and liberation arts. My counseling work is also deeply informed by all of my clients over the years who have taught me through their suffering and healing, what works, what doesn't and how I may best accompany my clients. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​  

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s transitions with confidence and purpose. Whether you’re managing stress, anxiety, or uncertainty about your career or relationships, I provide a supportive space to explore your goals and build resilience. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical—focused on helping you gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Through my experience as a vocational evaluator, I’ve helped many people uncover their strengths, build confidence, and find direction. Whether you're feeling lost in a job that no longer fits, questioning your qualifications, or just burned out, we’ll take the time to understand where you are—and where you want to go—so we can build the tools to get there together. I bring a strong educational and professional foundation to my work. I hold a master’s degree in Social Work and a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Texas and Florida, as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. These qualifications allow me to support clients through both emotional and practical challenges, especially those related to work, identity, and life transitions.

Do you wake up worried about the day ahead before you even get out of bed? At work, are you scared of making mistakes, feeling like everyone’s waiting for you to mess up? When friends invite you out, do you say “yes” but feel nervous inside? At home, instead of relaxing, do you replay awkward moments, wondering what others think of you? If these anxious thoughts make you feel not good enough and exhaust you, you’re not alone. These feelings can undermine your confidence and affect your professional and personal relationships. I’m here to help you find relief and reclaim your sense of calm and control.

Hello/Hola my name is Sandra Villarreal and I’m a bilingual therapist with her License Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)that is here to help and assist with your mental health well being. I believe if you take care of your mental health, your physical health will align. You can then be the best version of yourself which will lead to improving your quality of life.

I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we'll work on building coping skills, increasing self-awareness, and achieving your personal goals to improve your mental well-being and overall quality of life. I have experience working with a diverse range of clients that give me valuable experience and insights into different therapeutic needs.

My name is Pablo, and I have been working as a clinician for the past fourteen years. I have worked with a variety of clients, including adults and couples. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addiction, marital problems, anger problems, and a wide range of other mental health concerns in both clinical and hospital settings. My goal as a clinician is to help people gain a better understanding of the challenges that can arise in daily life and how to maintain a healthy balance so that these problems do not define them. I want to help my clients understand the true purpose of counseling and how it can empower them to grow as individuals. I am passionate about helping people build the tools they need to live fulfilling lives. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Faith Development. I also have a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. I am committed to providing my clients with the highest quality of care.

Hi! I am Gene Gibbs, a trained counselor and mental health therapist. I enjoy helping people as they navigate the issues and concerns that arise as one lives from day to day. I seek to provide a sounding board that allows clients to hear what they are saying and then to process their thoughts and ideas and get a clear view of how they are heard and what it means. From the processing step I move to clarification and application. They goal is to help the client do what is helpful for them and for those with whom they interact.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who is compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental, that creates a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I possess excellent listening skills, allowing them to understand clients' experiences deeply. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a commitment to ongoing learning and development, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. I have genuine warmth and authenticity foster trust and collaboration, empowering clients to achieve meaningful change and personal growth.

I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area for most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues that cause distress. I have a passion for helping those that hurt and see change possible. My faith has informed and enriched my personal life and professional career. I am very proud to be trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) I do mainly focus on TRAUMA. I have an MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and a BA in Psychology from the University of Houston. I look forward to meeting you! reception+Susan11867@growtherapy.com

Hello, I'm Priscilla Marie Silva-Guajardo, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where we can work together to address challenges, explore emotions, and develop practical strategies for better mental health. My goal is to help you navigate life’s ups and downs, understand yourself more deeply, and build resilience for a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Hello, I am a clinical psychologist who has been in practice sine 1999. I work with a general adult population, with my main focus being on PTSD, depression and anxiety. During the early stages of my career, I performed extensive psychological and neuropsychological testing. This helped me to understand the general workings of the brain and how important it is to utilize this knowledge in my therapy. I have found that helping my clients understand that mental illness is not "just in my head" or something I need to "get over' has been so very beneficial in people healing and taking control of their lives. I hope to have the opportunity to help you heal and make positive changes in your life.

Welcome! I'm Deepa Seetepalli, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken 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. With over 18 years of experience, I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Therapy 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.

Life has its ups and downs and struggles, but you don’t have to get stuck there or suffer. If you’re struggling right now, we can work together to make your life better. Therapy doesn’t have to be hard or scary. It can be a safe haven to explore what is getting in the way of having the life that you want. I’m a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in mental health and chemical dependency. I have a laid-back style and often use humor and metaphors to make ideas easy to grasp. I’ll help you learn new skills and make small changes that have big results.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I received my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University. I have been practicing in the field for 5 years. I work with adult individuals who struggle with various mental health issues and couples who are experiencing challenges with communication and intimacy issues in their relationships. I also work with couples who have made the decision to separate and want a smooth transition with the process.

I am a licensed professional counselor with 4 years of experience with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. With four years of experience specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution-focused therapy, I am dedicated to providing a supportive and collaborative environment for my clients. I love working with clients from all ages and backgrounds. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life.

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.

Working together once you realize your inner power, both therapist and client collaborate on cultivating that inner strength. For example, I've worked with individuals dealing with self-harm, formerly referred to as cutters/self-mutilation. Also, I worked with SI/HI, depression, anxiety, people with AH/VH/TH and paranoia, addictions, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, grief, eating disorders, sleep disorders, self-esteem, Bipolar, coping with life changes, attachment issues, body image, developing healthy boundaries. Counseling is a collaborative process, "Working together for a better tomorrow."

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas but also licensed in the state of North Carolina. I received my Master's degree from the University of Texas Pan-American and have been practicing for 12 years. I help guide people of all ages through their difficult times and focus on emotional and mental self-growth. Finding the push we need in life is possible when we seek specialized help that will foster a healthier version of ourselves.

Hi! I'm Candice and a licensed therapist with several years of experience in trauma, ADHD, anxiety and mindfulness. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly. My approach is collaborative and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. I look forward to working together with you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.

Hello! I am Connie Molina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have over 8 years working with adults, seniors, families and teens in various aspects of their lives. I have experience in the medical field such as case management, palliative and hospice care, and also with youth in a non-profit agency in which I work closely with individuals struggling with variety life challenges. I use evidence-based interventions for seniors, adults, teens, that transfer well in virtual therapy. My approach will have focus, structure, and measurement of progress.

"Carrie is helping me to think positively and remove my negative self-talk. She helps me recognize where I might be holding myself back and teaches me ways to challenge my self-imposed limitations. Very logical and sensible." I specialize in career counseling and workplace mental health. My focus is on supporting working professionals and college students who are struggling in their careers, education, or relationships due to anxiety or depression. Many feel burnt out, irritable, overwhelmed, and stuck. Chronic stress and rumination make it hard for them to connect with their co-workers, boss, friends, and family. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas and Michigan. I help clients struggling with burnout, anxiety, and depression bring their best selves to work. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) with over 20 years working in career counseling, education, and mental health. Follow me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-may

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (TX & FL) with over 15 years of experience providing trauma-informed, multilingual mental health care. My practice is rooted in compassion, clarity, and cultural humility—specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based approaches. I support individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions, with a deep commitment to creating a safe, respectful space for healing and growth. Whether you're seeking support for emotional regulation, processing past experiences, or building resilience, I tailor each session to meet your unique needs. I speak English, Spanish, and French, and bring a nuanced understanding of diverse cultural backgrounds and lived experiences. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change—at your pace, and in alignment with your values.

Hi! I'm Elizabeth Parrish, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over six years of experience. I hold a Master’s degree from Dallas Baptist University and am passionate about helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem. My work often focuses on issues stemming from relationship difficulties, work stress, family dynamics, and other life stressors. As a compassionate therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to discover peace, clarity, and confidence. I strive to create a supportive, honest, and authentic therapeutic relationship where you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. Together, we’ll work toward building the life you deserve.

As a social worker for twenty years, I have seen both the incredible hardships that people face as well as human resilience and adaptability. I became a therapist because I believe that healing happens best when we feel seen, heard, and accepted—just as we are. In therapy sessions, I use humor, warmth, and genuine respect to create a safe and supportive space for that purpose.

Hey! I’m Lauren and my goal is to be your process partner on your therapy journey, helping you navigate big emotions and answer tough questions. I feel privileged to be able to hear your story and honored if you choose to share it with me. After almost 10 years in this field I still can’t wait to learn more and share what I have learned with you.

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

Everyone has their own unique story and I will work to understand yours. I work with a variety of people including individuals, couples and families from a wide variety of professions, family situations, race, age and religious affiliations. Some of the issues I have experience and success working with are sexual dysfunction, infidelity, communication issues, trauma, and mental disorders. My approach looks at the entire person and the “system” in and surrounding them. I examine elements of people’s lives like their physical well-being, emotional coping and conflict resolution skills. We will work together in developing helpful behaviors and collaborate to create a safe place to develop emotional and physical wellness.

I take an integrative approach, providing a safe place for clients to express their needs. I have worked with adults, adolescents, families, and couples since 2007. I continue to educate myself as a marriage and family therapist, and I am trained in EMDR therapy. I host a podcast on how our deeper needs overlap with meaningful music that shares a story.

Starting therapy can be intimidating and I am here to assist you taking that step. I love to see my clients grow into who they want to be and take joy in seeing them overcome obstacles life throw at them. I am able to tailor my therapeutic techniques to individual needs of clients. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Perinatal mental health, and more.

Hi, I am an LPC in Texas. I have worked for over 10 years with trauma, mood disorders, Major mental health issues, various ages and approaches, etc. I'm pretty straight forward but it is your journey. My main goal is to help in your journey with compassion, support and empowerment. I am easy to connect with and patients describe me as realistic, easy to get along with, compassionate and down to Earth.

My name is Katy Thompson and I work to serve those that know they can do better, but don't seem to have the strength they need to pick themselves up out of the ditch. I'm a licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that this world is hard, but inside of us is something greater just waiting to be expressed and proved through a more fulfilling life.