Therapists in Texas

Talking to a therapist can feel as comfortable as chatting with a close friend or buddy. You deserve to live a fulfilled and happy life. With 14 years of experience, I have learned ways to connect with clients and help them make changes that leave them satisfied. Is there something bothering you that is difficult to discuss with the people you know? Is past trauma impacting your relationships? Are you unsure if you have past trauma? I work with a wide range of cognitive and emotional issues. I specialize in working with adults, aging-related concerns, caregivers, and Veterans. I provide individual and group therapy. Are you ready to get started? Are there times when you feel alone? Have you experienced periods of sadness and frustration while attempting to do your best each day? Are you taking care of others and paying attention to your needs last? Are you struggling to make life changing decisions? Are you dealing with difficult relationships, stress, depression, anxiety or trauma? Sometimes you can feel uncomfortable opening up to the people closest to you. Did you know that talking to a therapist can feel as comfortable as chatting with a close friend? Imagine sharing your feelings and concerns comfortably in a confidential setting. Imagine receiving assistance with processing these feelings and working toward resolution. With 14 years of experience, I have learned ways to connect with clients and help them make changes that leave them satisfied. I specialize in working with adults, aging-related concerns, caregivers, and Veterans. I provide individual and group therapy. Please contact me to get started.

Do you ever feel anxious or on edge? How about shortness of breath or a racing heartbeat? Or have you experienced a loss of interest in activities you used to love doing, helplessness, or feelings of emptiness? I help individuals manage anxiety and trauma symptoms. Together we can identify what is working and what is not to help get you back on track. We'll use a whole self approach meaning addressing the needs of your body and mind. I also integrate mindful techniques to regulate emotions. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but I am proud of you for making this brave decision. I will be able to provide a safe space for you to discuss any and everything without judgment. I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you observe the source of pain and begin to heal. Let's work together!

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.

Welcome! I'm Ciera Harris, a Licensed Professional Counselor 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 grief. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Together, we will identify your challenges and goals - where you want your life to be a month, six months, a year from now. Then, we'll identify options and strategies you can use to get there. There will always be room for suggestions concerning our work together, including keeping each other accountable. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, violence, or trying to overcome past traumas? You deserve to be well! I believe that you are the expert on your story and can overcome the things that challenge your mental health and emotional wellbeing. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters in Counseling and have been practicing for 12 years. I have experience working with various age groups (from adolescents to adults), in different settings (outpatient and in controlled environments), and I am driven to helping others find their sense of identity and empowerment through the struggles they have faced.

I am a clinical social worker, I have been in the field 28 years. I love meeting new people and working with them to find solutions to whatever issue you are struggling with at the time. I will be working with you listening to you to providing support. I will provide questions that will assist you in determining your best action steps.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida with 6 years of experience in the field. I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees from Austin Peay State University. I have encountered many people with different challenges, all of which I have dedicated compassion and empathy toward helping. I have experience with helping those in crisis, with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, and more. Do you feel stuck in a cycle of being disconnected or feeling too much? I help people with similar issues to create a balance in their mind, body, and spirit. I would like to applaud you for taking the first step in seeking help, it is not always the easiest thing to do. Rest assured I will try my best to make this process comfortable even if we do come across difficult emotions. It is my top priority to provide you with a safe space where you can speak and feel freely.

Maritza Linebaugh is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is experienced working with children, teens, and adults. She believes everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life's difficulties. Maritza has extensive knowledge of interpersonal trauma and the profound impact it has on survivors. Her clinical expertise is working with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress reactions/disorder, substance use disorders, attachment styles, body dystrophia, dissociation, relationship conflicts, and issues with sex and intimacy. She enjoys traveling, reading, building relationships, and integrating spirituality as the source of her personal wellness.

I was inspired to become a therapist as a young child, with the value of wanting to help others. I realized I wanted to help people believe in themselves and to see their own possibilities. Validation is one of the most important tools I value as a therapist and as a person. I teach clients to self validate, to know what you experienced is true and real. I value the process of creating this safe space where one can see themselves just as they are. I ask for feedback to see if how I respond through validation fits for the client, if they felt heard and validated.

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.

As a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Theray (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and trauma-informed care, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. I work with clients facing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. My approach is client-centered, emphasizing a collaborative, empathetic, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. With a focus on strengths, empowerment, and practical solutions, I help clients identify and build on their existing resources to achieve their goals. In addition to utilizing SFBT’s future-oriented methods to create rapid, actionable solutions, I integrate trauma-informed care to ensure a sensitive, respectful approach for those healing from past trauma. This holistic, empathetic framework allows me to meet clients where they are and provide the support they need to foster self-awareness, healing, and personal growth. The impact of my work extends beyond short-term problem-solving; it is about empowering clients to make lasting, positive changes that improve their overall well-being. Through our work together, clients develop the skills to better manage stress, improve their relationships, and build resilience, leading to more fulfilling lives. Whether you’re facing specific challenges or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing, self-discovery, and lasting change.

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.

Are you ready to ______ again?! Let's go! I'm Katelyn Lara and am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I went to school specifically for clinical mental health. I have the experience and the tools to help you along you life's journey! I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of North Texas and a Master’s degree in Clinical/Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University. I have experience helping individuals of all ages navigate through the challenges of life. My goal is to remind you that you didn't come this far just to come this far!

My name is Cassandra Rowe, but my clients have nicknamed me “The Boundaries Therapist”! My therapy motto is "many challenges can be attributed to a problem related to boundaries". As a seasoned therapist with over 20 years experience, I’ve served a broad spectrum of individuals including college students, teens, and adults experiencing life transitions. I use an eclectic approach to therapy in order to meet clients right where they are. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Informed Therapy techniques, I will affirm your truth, stretch your perspective and inspire you to live your best life!

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.

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

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with ten years of experience as a therapist and fifteen years of experience as a Social Worker. My clinical focus has been children and families, but I work with the whole spectrum of individuals. It's my goal to join people where they are as they take their therapeutic journey, learning more about themselves and conquering their fears.

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. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​  

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

Is your child or teen struggling with emotions, behavior, or navigating life’s challenges? As a parent, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain how to help. I have been providing counseling to children, teens and their parents for the past 12 years. I have worked in a wide variety of settings including non-profit counseling centers and school settings. I help children and teens recognize their own strengths to overcome challenges life throws at them. I also love working with parents, as I wholeheartedly believe that all parents want their children to thrive and have the power to make that happen.

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.

Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile! I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor with approximately 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in teaching my clients how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, mania, psychosis, trauma, stress, and grief. I also have experience with clients who wish to explore and resolve their gender identity, I proudly provide gender affirming care for the LGBTQIA+ community. I take a holistic, person centered approach while utilizing my clinical judgement, rapport, and insight to help guide you towards your goals. I am trained in and utilize Adlerian, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Heart Rate Variation (Biofeedback) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and Nurturing Parenting. If you are in need of counseling with a professional who is supportive, ethical, trustworthy, confidential, and reliable, then I am the counselor for you.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with 10 years of clinical experience. I am licensed in the states of North Carolina and Texas. I have a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelors in Psychology. I work with children, teens, and adults in individual therapy, helping them to navigate the unique and complex challenges of life. Some of the modalities that I employ in my work include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, couples therapy, brainspotting, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma- focused CBT.

Hi, I’m Manisha Sharma, a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, and building effective coping skills. I combine strength-based approaches with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you break free from overwhelming thoughts, manage daily stressors, and tap into your inner resilience. My goal is to guide you toward practical strategies, renewed confidence, and lasting emotional well-being—so you can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and hope.

My approach is collaborative in nature, meaning that I prefer to work with the client to create treatment goals that meets the client where they are at. As a therapist, my goals are your goals. Although we all have different puzzles in our life we are trying to overcome I believe we all have the capability and inner strength to to process and work through those experiences. In a session with me, we will work together to learn new and healthy ways of coping, identify and express emotions both past and current, and continue to make steps forward for a future worth living.

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.

Hi, I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with five years of experience helping people through life’s challenges—in hospitals, schools, and private practice. My goal is to make sure you feel truly heard and supported while giving you tools that fit your life. I take a down-to-earth, personalized approach and create a safe space where you can talk openly without fear of judgment. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready to grow, I’ll be here to walk alongside you.

Tanya is a sought after psychotherapist & addiction specialist. She owns Unitive Counseling Services, a business located in Kyle, TX that earned the Best in Business Award for 2024 for earning more than 55+ Five Star Google Reviews. Whether you struggle with substance addictions or problematic alcohol and drug issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, sexual abuse, CTPSD, or ADHD, Unitive Counseling can help. Don't suffer in silence anymore. You deserve to be free. View Less

I'm Kiandra Harry, a licensed professional counselor and I approach therapy in an inviting and validating way, as you are the expert in your life. I have a Bachelors in Psychology, Master's in Counseling and I am currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I'm a solution focused therapist that will help you find healthy solutions to solving your issues and concerns and live your life on your terms.

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.

Accepting new clients! Depression, anger, anxiety, and just trying to figure out how to make it in the world today can be difficult to do alone. My passion is to guide people through this journey to help them find peace in an otherwise chaotic world. If you are ready for change and want to talk to someone that can help you feel grounded and ready to face the world, please reach out to me. I offer counseling utilizing CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) principles to produce either positive changes to behavior or peaceful acceptance of things that one cannot change. For clinically less intense, but still troubling problems, I utilize personal coaching techniques and Motivational Interviewing Techniques. If you are dealing with depression, anger, or anxiety and want this type of change in your life then I am here to help. I know that you are probably tired of the struggles that have held you down in the past. It can be exhausting to try and do it alone. I hope that your desire to see something different in your life encourages to take the next step. I am available to talk if you are ready to begin this journey.

I am a dedicated Licensed Therapist with over 30 years of mental health experience. My seasoned expertise lies in helping adults and couples navigate through complex emotional life challenges while creating a safe space to develop coping strategies in stress management, depression, anxiety, intimate relationship challenges, emotional regulation, and grief. I use an integrative approach to therapy by utilizing various holistic and traditional therapy methods to address the whole person.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas and Idaho. I received my Masters from the University of Cumberlands and have been practicing for 5 years. I am also a licensed Reiki master (energy healer) and have a background in spiritually. I help my clients with discovering their inner world and become the best versions of themselves.

Hello. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based out of Texas. Throughout my 18 years as a social worker, I have worked with families, survivors of domestic violence, and veterans. I have practiced as a therapist the past 8 years in general mental health. I have worked with a variety of clients providing therapy services for depression, PTSD, anxiety, anger management, and insomnia.

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.

Hello, my name is Edna I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have worked in the area of mental health and emotional well-being for the past 15 years. I am passionate about helping people reach their potential and accomplish the goals they set for themselves by providing the necessary support, interventions and techniques that will help them accomplish their goals and live a happy and fulfilling life.

I specialize in the treatment of Complex Psychological Trauma including relational trauma from abusive relationships, PTSD, and all forms of addiction including sex and other process addictions (such as pornography, gambling, and food). I have a great deal of experience working with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I assist individuals in gaining understanding of symptoms and establishing skills to set and maintain appropriate boundaries both internally and externally, identify codependency, address denial, and improve conflict management tools.

Hello! I'm Dr. Edwards, a dedicated psychologist based in Houston, Texas. My journey into psychology began amidst the scenic views of the Texas Hill Country, where I was born and raised. My passion for understanding the human mind led me to The University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, where I obtained my bachelor’s degree in psychology. Driven to deepen my knowledge and expertise, I pursued and earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Health Psychology from The University of North Texas (UNT) in Denton. Pursuing excellence then took me to Syracuse, NY, where I braved one of the coldest years of my life to complete my pre-doctoral internship at the State University of New York Upstate Medical University. However, the heart of Texas and the opportunity for a post-doctoral fellowship at The Menninger Clinic, an esteemed affiliate of The Baylor College of Medicine, called me back to Houston, which has warmly remained my home.

Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I have been licensed for 15 years and treating individuals who struggle with a variety of issues and disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, life transitions, self-harm behaviors, grief and loss (death, loss of relationship, etc.). I see ages 13 and up.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the State of Texas. I earned my Master of Social Work degree in 2016 from SFASU. I have worked with numerous populations including those suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, mental health crisis, People Living with HIV/AIDS, as well as those with new and chronic health issues, substance abuse, and job loss. I am a very open-minded person who believes that each client us unique and requires a unique approach to treatment. I have experience counseling clients with a variety of problems bothering them including Stress, Anxiety Self-esteem Depression, Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, ADHD, Chronic Pain Illness and Disability, Family Problems, Isolation/Loneliness, Life Purpose, Mood Disorders.

Greetings! I am Amina Omar Ali and I congratulate you for making this important step in changing your life for the better. It can be difficult decision and the work that follows in not easy, but with an open mind, and practice, you will get where you want to be. My job is to facilitate your journey into self discovery, and help you find and attain what you want. Therapy is about you, and the work you do will determine the success you have in therapy. Let me assure you that coming to therapy does not mean you are "crazy" or weak. It takes courage and strength to open yourself up to a stranger and do that deep dive into your vulnerable self. Be proud you have made this choice, and recognize that with a little help you can change your life.

Are you struggling to cope with everyday life? Are mental health issues like anxiety, depression and stress robbing you of peace and joy on a regular basis? Do you feel like you have no one to talk to that understands what you are feeling? I am here to help. I have 33 years of experience working to help find meaning, purpose, and peace in your life. We will work together to use coping skills and resources to navigate the difficult times of your life. I will listen, support, and encourage you in your journey to find contentment in your life moving forward.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 12 years of experience helping individuals of all ages navigate life's challenges. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling from Lamar University and am passionate about empowering my clients to take control of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach is focused on providing support and guidance to help clients build resilience and achieve lasting positive change in their lives.

My name is Erin Mendoza. I received my Master's Degree in Professional Counseling in 2007 from Texas State University in San Marcos, Tx. I have been providing counseling services since 2007. I am a trauma-informed provider and since 2001 I have worked with families that have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience working with people who are struggling with life changes, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting challenges and trauma. I believe in meeting you where you are as everyone is unique. My passion is helping people understand themselves better and helping them make positive progress in their life.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in depression, quick to anger, or frustrated in your relationships — you’re not alone. Many of the people I work with feel like something just isn’t working, but they can’t quite explain why. Often, these struggles come from early experiences where emotions were ignored, dismissed, or too much for the adults around us to handle. As children, we learn fast: if expressing emotions doesn’t feel safe or accepted, we push them down. Over time, that emotional disconnection can turn into anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or anger that feels hard to control. My work focuses on helping you understand where these patterns come from and how to shift them. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety that won’t quiet down, depression that feels heavy, anger that shows up too fast, or relationship challenges that keep repeating — we’ll work together to untangle the deeper story and build healthier ways of coping, connecting, and feeling. This isn’t just about managing symptoms — it’s about helping you reconnect with the parts of yourself that have been shut down for too long.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Psychologist (LP) based in Texas. I received my Doctorate from the APA accredited California School Professional Psychology- Fresno. I and have been practicing clinical psychology over 20 years. I help adults struggling with career stress, relationship issues and mental health disorders become the best versions of themselves. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CT) and Brief Psychodynamic Therapy (BPT) in an eclectic fashion to address psychological issues.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Colorado. I am licensed in Colorado and Texas. With 25 years of experience, I have helped many people build resilience in the face of life’s challenges. My goal is to support you in making meaningful changes that align with what matters most to you, helping you build resilience and move toward the life you want.

My name is Crystal Gee, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have worked in the Human Service field for over 20 years with the past 10 years working in Mental Health. I am well-versed in treating clients that suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral disruption, grief, anger management, mood disorders, and suicidal ideations. I focus on increasing effective solutions by increasing problem-solving skills, communication skills, social skills, self-esteem and emotional identification.

Hello! My name is Chapin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with four years of experience. My experience includes working within the school system as well as in private practice. I received my Masters of Science in Social Work from West Texas A&M University. I utilize a trauma-informed, client-centered approach in therapy to create a welcoming environment that encourages hope and growth.