Therapists in Texas

I am a dedicated therapist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children, teens, and adults. With a focus on empowering individuals, I help them navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, behavioral issues, and trauma. My approach fosters resilience and effective coping strategies, ensuring that my clients can thrive in their daily lives. With nearly 10 years working in schools, I also hope to build resilience in students and educators.

Ahoj! I offer bilingual personalized counseling services for adults in Texas. I am a native El Pasoan who enjoys spending as much time with family while also addressing self-care by reading a book, going to the movies, or just playing video games. I grew up around the border between Mexico and the US. Son of Mexican parents so I am fortunate to speak Spanish fluently while also understanding its culture. Choosing a therapist is an important decision so don't hesitate to reach out and address any question even if you are just curious about it. Let's work on taking the first step in therapy together and schedule an appointment to decide if this is the best time to start working on investing in your life and your healing process.

Hi, I'm a License Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Master in Social Work from Texas A&M-Commerce. I've been a Social Worker for over 20 years. I'm able to help all ages children, adolescents, teens, young and older adults struggling with life whether in the form of mental/ emotional distress, family/ relationship - conflict, career, general transitions throughout life or more personal matters such as self-esteem and self actualization.

Hello there, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I have been practicing for 16 years. I help my clients struggling with life stressors and issues to become the best version of themselves. I work with my clients to help them establish healthy coping skills to navigate their life. As your therapist I am here to support you in your mental health journey.

My name is Marilee Melendez and I have been practicing for almost 4 years. I received my bachelors in Psychology from Texas Tech University and my masters in Counseling from University of Texas Permian Basin. As a first generation Mexican-American I deeply connect with how our cultural backgrounds affect our lives. I provide therapy in both Spanish and English. I have experience with trauma, immigration documentation, LGBTQ+, couples, children, adolescent, and adults.

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience as a School Counselor and 3 years as a professional counselor. Throughout my year of experience, I have help clients with anxiety, time management, school anxiety, self-esteem, regain confidence, anger management, coping with life changes and grief. I will provide opportunity for open dialogue, comfortable climate and treatment plan cater to your specific needs. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am here to hear you and to provide you a respectful and compassionate dialogue. Taking the step to seek service is a big step to begin a life change experience. Spanish Tengo licencia en Texas con 6 años de experiencia laboral profesional como Consejera Escolar y 2 años como consejera profesional. A lo largo de mis año de experiencia, he ayudado a clientes con ansiedad, manejo del tiempo, ansiedad escolar, autoestima, recuperación de la confianza, manejo de la ira, afrontamiento de cambios en la vida y duelo. Brindaré la oportunidad de un diálogo abierto, un clima confortable y un plan de tratamiento que se adapte a sus necesidades específicas. Creo en tratar a todos con respeto, sensibilidad y compasión. Estoy aquí para escucharte y brindarte un diálogo respetuoso y compasivo. Dar el paso de buscar servicio es un gran paso para comenzar una experiencia de cambio de vida.

Hello, I’m Miguel Sanchez, a doctoral candidate, Level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and your Bilingual (English/Spanish) virtual therapist for all residents in Texas. My goal is to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress, or anything else. I’m here to help you through it. I can't wait to be a part of your journey!

My name is Je’Nae Kelley. I relocated from Buffalo, NY, to Houston, Texas, two years ago to expand my horizon. With over six years of experience in counseling, I support clients aged 8 to 65 in navigating mental health, substance abuse, and dual diagnosis challenges. I’m passionate about empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth through evidence-based and client-centered approaches. If you are ready to heal your inner child and become your best possible self we may be a great match.

I approach clients with the an open mindset, looking to explore what the client needs and what they want for themselves. I always want my clients to know there is no judgement from me in their decisions, EVER. I view everyone's mistakes as us just being human and having a human experience. This practice of examining our human journey and what motivates us to do the things we do is extended to myself, my clients and my children/family. I often attempt to have the practice of asking myself "why did I do that? Did I do that because of this or because I was feeling blank?" I think it is important to help others get to the place where they ask themselves the same type of questions. We're all here just having human experiences!

Hello all, I am a Texas native. I went to college at the University of Texas at Tyler and received my Master's of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, with a sub-specialization in neuropsychology. As a professional counselor, I like to combine my practical experience of working with patients just like you with my knowledge and background of the brain and mental health. I completed my internship training and have vocational experience working in a dementia and aging clinic, in a residential childcare facility at, an inpatient psychiatric hospital, and in a clinic working with teens and adults with a variety of mental and behavioral health concerns. I am grateful for the breadth of these clinical experiences, as I feel confident working with a wide array of clients--both children and adults-- and with a variety of psychological needs.

I specialize in helping adults heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress that’s built up over time. My approach is compassionate, down-to-earth, and focused on getting to the root of what’s holding you back. We’ll explore patterns, build healthier boundaries, and reconnect you with your inner peace. I integrate talk therapy with somatic tools, trauma therapy, mindfulness, and culturally aware care to support your healing in a way that feels safe, empowering, and authentic to you.

Therapy is often a difficult and personal journey that one enters for a variety of reasons. Therapy provides an emotionally safe place for people to address and process life experiences while offering valuable insight and perspective. The next step in your healing journey could bring the change you desire. My many years of life experience, seven years of counseling experience, and a commitment to continuing education provide me with a foundation for providing compassionate and trauma-informed care. I have experience working with all ages suffering from PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression. My integrative style provides personalized treatment to meet your needs, preferences, and cultural expectations. I would be honored to join you in your healing journey. Schedule an appointment to take your next step toward healing.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters in mental health counseling from the University of Cumberland and have been practicing in mental health for over 9 years. I have 4 years of clinical experience in a large military mental health clinic and just retired from the military . I help adults, veterans, military and their families struggle with relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, and depression.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor serving Texas and Florida. I have 3+ years of experience in therapeutic practice, and I am deeply committed to facilitating transformative journeys for individuals seeking to transition from a state of emotional or psychological distress to one characterized by resilience and empowerment. By fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment, I strive to empower my clients to overcome challenges, break free from limitations, and embrace the opportunity to live boldly and authentically.

Kristina McCray, M.S., LSSP, LPC is a School Psychologist and a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Texas. She has also provided therapy services to people in Louisiana, New York, California, and several countries internationally. She has over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. Kristina received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Louisiana State University. She then received a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Northwestern State University. Furthermore, she received a Specialist Degree in School Psychology from Texas A&M Commerce. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. She has experience in working with families, couples, individuals, and groups. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Throughout her 16 years of experience, she has worked several different jobs in the mental health field and in the school system. Kristina is passionate about helping children and adults heal through traumas and navigate through conflict that they have experienced, so that they can be successful in life. She also looks forward to providing the necessary life tools to aid others in maintaining a balanced mental health. Furthermore, she is interested in providing family therapy, couples therapy, individual therapy ages 13-100, group therapy, classes, crisis consultation, mental health case management/referral services, general and special education consultation and advocacy for parents and students with disabilities, behavioral consultation, and mental health services and consultation to school districts and companies. SPECIALTIES • Stress, Anxiety • Addictions • Trauma and abuse • Self esteem • Depression Healing

Hi There I'm Roshunda! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) operating in Texas, and I hold an additional license in Virginia. With 12 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have been a licensed professional for the past 4 years. I take great joy in accompanying clients on their journeys, particularly those grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and the challenges of life transitions. My mission is to empower clients by helping them uncover and build upon their inherent strengths. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of providing support in various mental health settings, extending assistance to teenagers, adults, and families navigating the highs and lows of life. I look forward to the opportunity to guide you on a path of self-discovery and resilience.

Hey everyone! I’m an LPC with 5 years of clinical experience. Proud graduate of The University of Georgia and Clemson University. Go Dawgs!! Love to bring client interests into the therapy space, so it creates for a more engaging experience. Whether it’s art, music, sports, pop culture, or other hobbies, we can make it a therapeutic experience. My motto is “Be as transparent as you are comfortable, so we can get you to the place where you want to be.”

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.

I have over a decade of experience treating clients at the clinical level. As a former Army Chaplain, I have assisted Soldier and Family members in the most extreme circumstances - to include combat. As a fellow human being, I meet my clients on common ground to assist them in gaining traction and moving forward. I come beside people to help them see their strengths, capabilities, and new possibilities. I help people to find a ray of hope when their life is stuck at the midnight hour.

I have been a trauma trained therapist that has worked with teens and families for over 20 years in schools, hospitals and private practice settings. I work to help my clients with reprocessing trauma, coping and finding healthier behaviors that change their lives. I empower my clients and walk the journey of life alongside them. I create safety in the therapy space.

If you've ever found yourself grappling with depression, anxiety, grief, or facing challenges in your relationship. Whether navigating tough times or dealing with complex issues, I'm equipped with the training and tools to honor your dignity and autonomy and practice cultural humility to guide you through your healing journey. Respecting your individual journey and cultural context is fundamental in my approach. I'm here to assist if you're seeking help in managing mental health concerns or relationship issues. Reach out, and let's explore how I can support you on your path to healing and growth.

I have over 20 years experience as a mental health counselor , guidance counselor and career counselor. I like to work with individuals experiencing life changes that may need someone to help them with transitions or focusing on problem resolution. I enjoy working with clients that are able to identify the areas that they feel would be most beneficial to address through therapy and those that are truly wanting to change their mental mindset. I look forward to working cohesively and collaborate with all clients to reach their goals of self efficacy

I offer therapy as a way of straightening out your life. I want to help you in developing and defining your goals in life and collaborate with you on ways to achieve these goals. My aim is to go through the difficulties of life with you and help you in understanding who you are and developing meaning and purpose around that.

Jasmina works eclectically to suit the needs of the individual. Under the model of therapeutic techniques; modalities used in treatment may include CBT, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, Behavior therapy, Trauma informed therapy, Strength based approach and mindfulness-based interventions. Jasmina holds expertise in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transition issues, relationship and family issues. My effort will always be to build a strong foundation of trust and honesty, tangible, and warm therapeutic work. The key to success will be your participation in developing the treatment goals that will support to develop more insight, build resources, resilience, promote healthy emotional and mental wellbeing.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental supportive environment while collaboratively working with my patients as team to assist them with gaining and maintaining emotional stability. I am a client centered therapist with 5 years experience in mental health counseling. I have been successful in using my expertise to understand, assist, and guide clients to learn components of emotional intelligence that they can use to assist them with meeting their behavioral health goals. I am highly accomplished in designing psycho-educational programs that empower clients with self-efficacy and the motivation to change. I am Skilled at using Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy and other therapeutic modalities to assist clients with meeting their therapeutic needs. I am Smart Recovery Certified and skilled at working with individuals who are battling addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am hard working, motivated, team oriented, and dedicated to the field of mental health. I strongly believe in giving clients tool that they can use to gain and/or maintain safety, sobriety, and stability.

I have served military families for 12 years. Military and civilian families share many of the same issues. Military families tend to deal with and experience multiple relocations. This means moving children to new schools, dealing with household packing and unpacking and stress in general. Civilian and military couples sometimes experience communication issues, disloyalty in the relationship or other stressful issues which cause conflict to arise. Some or all of these issues can be addressed and clients can find solutions agreeable to the parties involved.

I am a licensed professional counselor. I have been practicing for 10 years. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges related to addiction, anxiety, and depression. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I work alongside my clients to explore the underlying causes of their struggles, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build lasting resilience. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where healing and person

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.

As a bilingual Clinical Therapist , I work closely with clients to minimize the long-term effects of complex trauma. I use evidence-based therapies to help empower families, guiding them on their journey to healing and resilience despite the challenges they face. I am deeply passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space where every client feels heard, understood, and supported throughout their healing process.

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas and have been practicing for 10 years. I am bilingual (Spanish and English) and work with both individuals and couples. My counseling style for individuals focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for clients to explore their feelings, thoughts, and perspectives. For couples, my counseling style includes helping the couple improve their relationship through increasing their emotional bond.

You deserve the opportunity to experience peace, wholeness, and flourishing in your life. Unfortunately, some of your past and present experiences may have kept you from this. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe, non-judgemental space where you feel supported as you share, explore, and achieve the life you desire. Together, we will embrace your imperfections, increase self-awareness, and build on your strengths to help you grow as you journey toward healing and wholeness.

My name is Elvira Aleman Vaughan. I am a Christian counselor who works with adults who have depression/anxiety. If you prefer talk therapy I'll use CBT to help you get to the root of the issue. Or if you are open to trying a proven technique that is less conventional, I will use EMDR to help you heal and move forward.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I have over 12 years of experience working as a therapist. Much of my work has focused in treatment of various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, substance abuse, phobias, impulse control and life transitions. I find that most of my clients are successful within therapy with the techniques implemented in my sessions, such as unconditional positive regard or empathetic understanding. And it gives me great pride when I see a client achieve self-discovery, healing and positive growth throughout our sessions.

Hi, I'm a licensed professional counselor supervisor practicing in Texas. I earned my masters degree from University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, TX and have been practicing for 28 years. I earned my Master of Arts degree in psychology from University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. I have lived and traveled in Europe and have a good understanding of a variety of cultures. My lifetime experiences provide insight into military life, parenting, serious health issues, and grief and loss. My career has taken many turns allowing me to work with issues including cancer, loss, foster care, adoption, and adjustment to change. I am widowed and understand and identify transition and end of life issues. I enjoy spending time outdoors and with my pets, family and friends. Spirituality is an integral part of my life and I express this influence through playing piano and organ.

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!

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.

I am a politically Progressive therapist offering non-religious spiritual guidance in these deeply fearful times. I specialize in facilitating healing through mindfulness and present moment awareness, helping clients learn to manage and discipline their minds. I work with depression, anxiety, divorce, relationship issues, life transitions, low self-esteem, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. My current focus is on holding the light in these dark times.

I work with clients who have developed unhealthy coping skills in response to deeper issues. I encourage clients to look deeper at themselves and identify habits and beliefs that conflict with their inner peace. I provide counseling to address core issues, whether you want to understand your behavior better, increase self-esteem and self-confidence, or change destructive thought patterns. I utilize client-centered interventions to develop a therapeutic alliance that meets clients where they are and works with them to create a client-invested treatment plan.

Hi! I'm Lindsey. Do you struggle with overwhelming thoughts that have impacted your daily life? Are you struggling with daily reminders of past events? Are there days when you feel burdened by even getting out of bed? I collaborate with my clients that are suffering with depression, anxiety and PTSD to develop coping skills that lead them to their goals of being a happier more fulfilled version of themselves. Together we will work to establish your goals and the pathway we will take to get to those goals. Along the way, I will educate you on coping skills, to include, deep breathing and mindfulness to meet the days challenges head with deeper understanding and a sense of accomplishment in your growing capabilities. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD or other concerns I'm here to assist you on your journey. Asking for help is often one of the hardest things that we can do, but also one of the most important and rewarding acknowledgments as well. I look forward to working with and helping you to overcome the challenges that you are facing!

I am Frank Ogbonna, a registered therapist with three different licenses namely Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP) in the State of Texas. I have Masters degree in Educational Psychology from University of Port Harcourt Nigeria, Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University, Masters degree in Public Health and Ph.D in Epidemiology from Walden University.

Hello there, My name is Imagine. I serve people from many different walks of life, and I have found that working with women of color experiencing life transitions has been impactful. I believe that although change is inevitable, it can be difficult being clear about our identities along the way. I provide a nonjudgmental ear and perspective in order to support clients on their journey through deeper self understanding.

What if you could write the story of your life? The truth is, you can, you are in control of your destiny, you are writing the story of your life right now. The choices you make are directly related to the thoughts you have. That puts you in control, you have the ability to change the way you think, and when you change the way you think, you change your life. The thoughts you are thinking right now are writing the story of your life. If you are not happy with the story, you can reprogram your thoughts to change the story and write it the way you want it to go. Together you and I can work to manage the challenges you are facing today. Therapy may seem scary or even overwhelming, but with the right partner you really can change your life. Together we will explore how your thoughts and the dimensions of wellness are affecting your life and find a path to change the story of your life, to one of positive emotional and mental well-being.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Florida, Texas, Nevada, and Kentucky as well as an EMDR-trained provider. I have experience in helping clients struggling with adjustment issues, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. All appointment are via telehealth in FL, KY and TX, with the option of in-person and virtual appointments in NV.

Everyone is welcome to my online counseling practice, 18 years-old and over! I specialize in anxiety and depression due to many, many different causes. Top causes are relationship issues, grief, break-ups, medical illness, chronic pain, parenting stress and big life transitions. Sometimes a few months of therapy to have a safe space for you to be heard and guided by a trained therapist is all you need to get over the rut you are in. Here's what I will bring to the session. Warmth. Compassion. Humor and NO sugar coating. And I love to assign homework in between sessions, so buckle up. Why homework? For the same reason we can't lose weight just by eating healthy one hour a week. Change is hard, growth is hard, gaining inner peace WILL be hard.

Welcome my name is Kareem Hicks, and I commend anyone who desires to grow. Often, our environments & comfort zones may stagnate or stunt our growth. Whether it is a traumatic experience or merely trying to maneuver through daily life challenges, I will help you develop your resiliency. I will aid you in processes that will get you through the present and prepare you for the future. We will discover & develop protective factors by understanding the whole of you: body, soul, & mind. By taking a holistic approach to growth, I will assist you in the discovery of lifestyle changes & new ways of thinking that will maximize your potential.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have been working with families and children for over two decades as a teacher, a school counselor, and in private practice. I am here to help with the healing process and support emotions that arise through life’s many transitions. Rest assured that when working with me, you will be met with understanding, compassion, and a non-judgmental approach.

The most difficult part about healing is being patient and loving yourself enough to know that you deserve better. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a PhD in Family Studies and a Masters in Counseling Psychology. I have experience working with diverse populations, and my approach is customized to address the unique needs of each client. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with racial trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem issues. My interest lies in guiding individuals on their journey to healing and finding peace in an unbalanced world.

Hey there! Life can feel like a constant push and pull between who you are and who the world expects you to be. Maybe you overthink every conversation, struggle to speak up at work, or feel like you’re never quite enough. It’s exhausting, and you’re not alone. I’m Betty, a first-generation Latina counselor who gets it. Together, we’ll work through the self-doubt, strengthen your confidence, and help you communicate with clarity and purpose. My approach is real, actionable, and tailored to you—with exercises and strategies designed to create lasting change. You have the power to own your voice and step into the life you want. Let’s make it happen. 💛

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. As a therapist, I see my role as a collaborative facilitator of change. I believe that people are relational beings with physical, spiritual, emotional, and social components. The exploration and integration of these aspects can be life changing and enhancing. In addition, I seek to connect all facets of a person's world (the family they grew up in, their gender, faith, culture, education, age, etc.)