Therapists in Texas

Hi, I’m Vicki Smith. I’m a virtual mental health counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Mary Hardin–Baylor and offer online counseling through my private practice. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, or grief and loss. When life feels heavy or hard to manage, you don’t have to face it alone. My goal is to provide a relaxed, supportive, and warm space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. Together, we’ll work on practical ways to cope, heal, and move toward functioning better and feeling more like you again—all from the comfort of your own home.

I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist providing individual and family counseling. I am licensed in Texas and have over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I work with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship and parenting challenges, and stress management. I also have extensive experience supporting individuals who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. In addition to treating mood and anxiety disorders, I’ve worked closely with individuals and families involved in the legal system and Child Protective Services, offering support through complex and high-stress circumstances. My counseling style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I believe in meeting each client with sensitivity and compassion — without judgment or stigmatizing labels. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, narrative, and solution-focused techniques, and I tailor each treatment plan to meet your unique goals and needs. It takes courage to seek support and make meaningful changes. If you're ready to take that first step, I'm here to walk alongside you and help you build a more fulfilling and empowered life. I look forward to working with you.

Hi, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Texas A&M University–Kingsville. I have over four years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Whether you're seeking clarity, healing, or personal growth, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward emotional wellness. Let’s work together to help you feel more empowered, balanced, and connected to your true self.

Hi, I’m Erica — a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas with more than 18 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s ups and downs. Over the years, I’ve worked in private practice, schools, nonprofits, and large healthcare systems, which has given me a well-rounded understanding of how stress, transitions, and relationships shape our lives. Many of the people I work with describe feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of a space where they can talk freely and feel truly heard. I specialize in supporting clients who are managing stress—whether it’s showing up in parenting, relationships, work, or major life changes. My approach is supportive and collaborative. Together, we’ll explore what’s been weighing on you, develop healthier ways to cope, and work toward a greater sense of balance, clarity, and self-understanding.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC) licensed in Texas. I received my masters degree from Dallas Baptist University and have been practicing for 11 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, low self worth, life transitions, and parenting struggles. I have worked in non profit agencies, community mental health, and private practice. I am honored to walk beside you on the journey to increased health.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. I help people realize the underlying reasons to their stressful factors and lay out a personalized plan towards the goals they would like achieve. Therapy itself can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I am fully engaged with you through your journey.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with 19 years of experience helping people move through life’s toughest seasons—times of change, loss, or uncertainty when you’re ready for something to shift but not sure where to begin. My style is calm and approachable, and clients often tell me they feel comfortable and understood right away. Together we focus on more than talking: we identify what’s holding you back, uncover the strengths you already have, and build practical skills you can use immediately. Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, untangling relationship challenges, or simply wanting to feel more grounded and confident, I offer steady guidance and a space where real healing and lasting growth can take root.

If you're feeling unsure , disconnected, or overwhelmed with the future, I’m here to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to help navigate life . I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Texas, with experience working in a variety of mental health environments. Through this experience I have developed a therapeutic approach that is client-centered, meaning I prioritize each individual’s unique needs, experiences, and goals. This foundation allows me to use an eclectic blend of trauma-informed care, EMDR,IFS, and REBT. Outside of work, I love to read, explore nature, and immerse myself in music in all forms. These passions help me recharge and bring creativity and balance to my life, which I strive to share with my clients as they navigate their own journeys.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both Texas and Florida, with over 20 years of experience. I am a strong believer in wholeness. I help individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges. My blend of insight, compassion, and expertise empowers clients to discover the tools within to rebuild and transform their lives. Using Family Systems Theory, I connect relationships, health, and spirituality to emotional well-being.

Hi! I am Stacy McCarty-Nash, but just Stacy will do! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor/Mentor. I have been practicing therapy for 25+ years after earning my Master of Science (MS) degree from Friends University. I am licensed in Virginia, Texas, and Florida. I specialize in providing individual therapy with culturally diverse clients who are navigating relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, and issues with self-esteem. My mission is to nurture emotional well-being and help you heal and grow one step at a time.

My professional experience working within counseling has allowed me to become skilled and comfortable in delivering solution focused therapy. My theoretical orientation aligns with Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, however, I hold a strong belief that a counselor should possess technical eclecticism and be comfortable and well-versed in many theoretical orientations and interventions in an effort to accommodate the varying and diverse individual needs of clients. With that goal in mind, I continue to stay immersed in other styles such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy, to name a few, while also maintaining a Humanistic approach at the core of my counseling approach. When working with couples and families, I utilize Family Systems Therapy, Structural Therapy, Strategic Therapy and Transgenerational Therapy approaches as treatment modalities. I am also Gottman Level I certified and enjoy utilizing the Gottman Approach when working with couples.

Since 2012, I’ve walked alongside clients in the U.S. and India as they’ve navigated life's turning points—moments of doubt, discovery, and deep transformation. I believe life unfolds in many shades. It’s not always fair or predictable, but with understanding and acceptance, we can find meaning and joy in even the most unexpected colors. My experience spans working with children, young adults, college students, couples, individuals, and families across culturally diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s helping a teenager find their voice, guiding a couple through conflict, or supporting someone through personal growth, I create a safe, nonjudgmental space that nurtures insight and healing. I hold onto the truth that obstacles often carry the seeds of growth. My role isn't to erase life’s challenges, but to support people in understanding them, responding with courage, and growing stronger in the process.

I am a compassionate and understanding therapist dedicated to creating a warm and validating space for your emotions. Through the use of CBT and Motivational Interviewing, I guide and support positive change, empowering individuals, children, couples, and families to be the change they seek in their lives. My goal is to be a tool of motivation and hope, helping you build a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Board-Certified Counselor in Texas. I am an experienced therapist committed to helping my clients achieve their goals and experience wellness in life. Mental Health is extremely important and should be properly addressed with a competent mental health professional. If you need and/or desire my services, please feel free to book a session with me so that we can discuss your particular needs.

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.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in the shadow of trauma, or struggling with life transitions and relationships? I offer compassionate, trauma-informed care for adolescents, young adults, and mothers navigating the emotional challenges of development, identity, and healing. My specialties include perinatal mental health, postpartum anxiety, birth trauma, PTSD, and the lingering effects of emotional abuse and coercive control. I use expressive arts, somatic practices, and nature-based interventions to help you reclaim clarity, self-trust, and resilience. With a background in developmental psychology and 14+ years of experience, I walk alongside you through growth, grief, and self-discovery — helping you reconnect with your inner strength and move toward a life of meaning and ease.

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Colorado, Texas, Nevada, Iowa, and Hawaii (and Washington pending). I view therapy as a partnership focused on healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. I work with a wide range of adults seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress-related concerns, and I tailor my approach to each person’s unique story. My goal is to help you strengthen your sense of self, improve relationships, and develop practical tools to live with greater peace and authenticity.

Hi there. I'm Brian. Life is a journey. Sometimes that journey feels simple and finding our footing is easy. But at other times, the road appears dark and we find ourselves feeling anxious, confused, lonely, and struggling to know how to take the next step. Sometimes, we just need some help. As your therapist, I love that my job is to come along side of you in your journey and be a guide. Whether your facing the biggest battle of your life or wanting to climb to new heights, we can navigate the road together for a bit. It's your journey. I looking forward to joining you on it!

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I have been practicing for over 8 years. I enjoy working with people who struggle with lack of motivation, low self-esteem, self-doubt, and feelings of worthlessness. I enjoy helping challenge negative self-talk and learning distortions. I enjoy assisting my clients learn to calm their mind and find a better version of themselves.

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

I have a deep-rooted passion for personal growth and a heart for service, and I bring over six years of social work practice and behavioral health experience to my therapy practice. I work from the strength's perspective using your strength's to help you overcome trauma, anxiety, grief, emotional growth, and mental healing. I walk alongside you in your healing journey empowering you along your path.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor based in Texas. I received my Master's degree from the University of Houston-Victoria and have been practicing for 22 years. My job is to help my clients understand the struggles they are having and where they are coming from plus; learn a new path and new skills to help them create a better life for themselves

Hello, I'm Justin Alexander. I am currently practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for 17 years. Being in this helping profession in various forms since the age of 19, I have extended experience in a gamut of diagnosis for individual therapy, couples/marriage counseling, and family therapy. Being action-oriented in the therapeutic process, we will work together to achieve the desired goals.

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.

Hi! My name is Monica Tapia, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Texas. I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology from Texas A&M University and have been practicing for 15 years. I work with adults, teenagers, children, families, and couples. My main goal is to assist every individual become the best version of themselves while understanding that process and making it their own.

Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired, but unsure what to do about it? Does anxiety, depression, or other life conditions keep you from being your best? If so, I may be able to assist you in your growth and development along your healing journey. I serve to empower my clients and assist them in working through and overcoming their mental and behavioral health struggles. I have 20+ years of experience in helping clients with recovery from trauma and abuse, stress, anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, and anger management. I will work with you to create an open and safe environment where your thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I appreciate you for demonstrating your worth and value as you begin your healing journey.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 10 years of experience working with families, children, adolescents, and young adults—while focusing primarily on supporting women. I help clients navigate anxiety, career transitions, relationships, parenting, and I integrate Christian principles into sessions when desired. My approach is warm, respectful, and collaborative. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused techniques to meet your unique needs. If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing and growth, I'm here to support and empower you. My approach is practical, supportive, and personalized. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused methods to help you make meaningful progress. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your unique story, goals, and values. When you’re ready to take that next step, I’m here to support and empower you every step of the way. Let’s work together to move toward the life you deserve. Ready to get started?

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

I’m a licensed therapist who believes everyone deserves a safe place to breathe, heal, and feel heard. With 6 years of experience, I’ve helped people work through anxiety, self esteem, trauma, relationship stress, and adjusting to life changes. My approach is calm, and supportive,I’m here to walk with you through life’s challenges and help you feel more grounded, confident, and empowered as you move forward.

Life can be overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying the weight of past trauma or trying to navigate intense emotions. If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of where to turn, I’m here to meet you exactly where you are. I work with individuals who want to process their experiences, heal from their past, and move forward with a sense of peace and empowerment. Together, we’ll create a space where your story can unfold, free of judgment or pressure.

I’m Catherine Taylor, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Chemical Dependency Counselor. I work with adults who are experiencing any of the following: Anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, relationship challenges, career difficulties, and life’s unexpected changes. People often describe me as compassionate, down-to-earth, and direct but very caring. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space while also helping you develop clarity, insight, and real tools for change. My goal is to help you feel understood, supported, and empowered to move forward.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Texas, Florida, Alabama, NJ and SC with 16 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals. I believe it is often our past experiences that make-up our present and it influences our future. Through these experiences, we fashion our own individual stories. My clients describe me as a Therapist who makes them feel heard, respected, validated, seen, encouraged and they feel safe to share when they are with me. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and empathy so you can overcome the obstacles that are holding you back. Let's work together!

Hello! My name is Kristine. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with experience providing therapeutic services to adults, children, and couples. My experience spans several areas, including domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance abuse, family and relationship challenges, learning challenges, problem-solving skills, building resilience skills, career and vocational guidance, anger and stress management, emotional triggers, and life and resilience skills. My therapeutic treatment approaches are Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My educational foundation is a Master's in Psychology, a second Master's in Psychology specializing in Family, Couples, and Individual Psychotherapy, and I will complete the Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in 2026. As a Therapist and Registered Nurse, I have a holistic approach. I have focused training and experience in many areas, including working with children in elementary school, inmates, and family violence prevention services. I have extensive experience with group counseling, individual counseling, couples and family counseling, and military services. I am a 24-year Air Force and Army Veteran with three combat deployments, and I bring a unique understanding of deployments and family separation. I stay current on the latest techniques and theories to provide the best services for my clients. In the very near future, I will be able to provide you with both therapeutic and medication support, reducing the number of providers and referrals needed to meet your healthcare needs. I am here to help, and I look forward to being a part of your journey.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Therapist-Supervisor (LPC-S) with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Minor in Sociology, as well as a Master’s of Arts in Counseling. My primary therapeutic approach for individuals is Cognitive Therapy, complemented by Dialectical Therapy when it aligns with clients' needs. What does all of the mean, I am a great resource for you to find clarity and support! In our work together, my focus is on creating a collaborative and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. We will work together to identify your unique challenges and develop a personalized plan to support your overall well-being and personal growth.

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.

Mrs. Whiteside has worked in various mental health settings maintaining her unwavering focus on mothers and small children. As a perinatal psychotherapist, Mrs. Whiteside works with mothers and/or families who are struggling with perinatal mental illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Mrs. Whiteside is currently a social work doctoral student at The University of Louisville researching the impact of perinatal mood disorders, as evidence indicates that depression and other mood disorders in parents can have a harmful impact on children, including cognitive difficulties, insecure attachment, and behavioral problems.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been in the field for over 10 years working with all ages. My focus has been on providing services to those who are looking for guidance to resolve issues that have made their present difficult. My approach is that of helping you find your own path to feeling like yourself again and using a combination of techniques specific to your needs.

Are you experiencing feelings of hopelessness or helplessness? Have you lost a sense of meaning and purpose? Are you overwhelmed with worry and racing negative thoughts that get in the way of normal everyday activities? Have you felt a loss of love or blocks in giving and receiving love? At Cody Parker, LPC Counseling Services, my goal is to help you realize your true potential, through challenging lies and labels that keep you down and feeling helpless or hopeless. There is and will always be hope. Let me guide you in helping yourself to challenge strongholds and negative thoughts contributing to your symptoms. Let's work together to gain control of your thoughts and accept your true value and worth. I strive to combine the best of scientific evidence-based approaches with a faith based Christian worldview. I provides professional therapy through teletherapy services from my virtual office, reaching clients no matter where they are in Texas. I work with couples that are experiencing relational issues including adulteries/affairs, communication issues, and general strengthening of relationships. Individual issues such as anxiety, depression, impulse control issues, anger management, and trauma.

Hi, I'm a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor (LPC-S) in the State of Texas. I received my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and have been practicing for 8 years. I'm certified as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I help patients who are facing various emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, career transitions, and life adjustments. I offer guidance, empathy, and evidence-based techniques to help navigate life's difficulties, overcome obstacles and help reach your own personal goals. ¿Prefieres hablar en español? ¡Con gusto! El idioma no es una barrera: aquí hablamos inglés y español con el corazón.

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

Born & raised in San Antonio, I am enthusiastically entering the empty-nest stage of my life. Since going off to graduate school in the northeast, my devotion to helping marginalized communities has remained steadfast. Gratitude, hope & resiliency certainly are my touch stones. I love listening to music, reading, traveling & quality time with my cuddly companion - Yorkie Poo. Volunteering is also a passion of mine.

Hello and welcome to my page. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have been practicing in the counseling field for over three years and can truly say, it has been a pleasure. I feel it is an honor to help clients through various issues such as relationship conflicts, self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, etc. My fascination with the field began when I was merely ten years old, a time marked by the heart-wrenching aftermath of my parents' divorce, which left emotional scars that ignited my curiosity. Like many people, I have experienced loss and pain; however, with the right mindset and support, these challenges can be overcome!

Work, family, relationships—it can all feel like a lot at once. When you’re trying to hold everything together, even small stressors can feel overwhelming. Anxiety can take over your days, and the weight of depression can make simple tasks feel impossible. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I’m Cheryl, a trauma-informed therapist who works with neurodivergent adolescents and adults. I believe that the qualities that make you different can also be the qualities that make you powerful. Sensitivity, depth of feeling, and even perfectionism can become strengths when understood with compassion. With warmth, humor, and steady support, I help clients build emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience. My goal is to create a safe, grounded space rooted in trust and optimism. I use evidence-based methods tailored to your needs while honoring your lived experiences. Together, we’ll explore the “why” and “how” behind your emotions and patterns so you can create more helpful ways of thinking, coping, and moving through the world.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor from Northeast Texas. After a career as a teacher and public school counselor, I made the decision to start working as an LPC and I have never regretted making the change. I truly love what I do. I am excited to meet you and begin our work together. Congratulations on making the decision to take this step towards a better future.

✨ Your well-being is always my top priority. Since 2018, I’ve been helping individuals, couples, and families across Texas and Missouri through virtual therapy—providing compassionate support that meets you right where you are. My sessions are thoughtfully designed to empower you, build confidence, and gently guide you through healing and growth. Whatever challenges you’re facing, you don’t ever have to face them alone. Please visit and join my community on Skool! (Copy and paste link into new web browser) https://www.skool.com/@varissa-owens-2000?g=skoolers

Shelena is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She has worked in the field of mental health for 10 years and in private practice for the past 5 years. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She received her BA in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with individuals to help them reframe negative thinking and behaviors. She utilizes treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy. She believes that given the right tools we all can become the best version of ourselves.

Hello there! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I have been practicing for the past 15 years. I help individuals, couples, and families understand what information their thoughts, feelings, and emotions are informing them about so that I can support and empower them to become the best versions of themselves. This is done through practical and realistic strategies that integrate into their lives.

Hey everyone! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. 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.”

I'm understanding and empathetic towards the clients I work with. I can easily build rapport where my clients feel at ease to communicate and trust. I'm committed to building strong positive relationships with all of my clients, so together we can work towards reaching goals. My mission is to help others improve their overall mental well-being and work towards a more positive mindset. I help clients discover their self worth while learning to overcome adversity and utilize healthy coping skills.

Healing is not always found in a linear path. With every new experience we encounter there is the potential and opportunity for change. Hi, I'm Mayra, thank you for taking the time to considering me as a companion in your therapy journey. Therapy can be a challenge for some people so I like to provide gentle guidance. There is no single way of conducting therapy- everyone needs different approaches, resources and therapeutic support. I strive to help create a safe space for people to explore their identity (cultural, familial, sexual, etc). I have worked in the medical field for almost 20 years in different roles. This has allowed me to gain different perspectives and have a better understanding of the medical community. Having been part of this community has allowed me to serve patients, caregivers, first responders and medical professionals. Most of my adulthood has been spent in Austin and the Hill Country. I am a bilingual first-generation Texan and I’m happy to call Central Texas home. However, I was born and raised in South Texas and la frontera (the borderlands) is also very much part of my identity. I find that our cultures and family of origin at times play a role in how we choose to carry our experiences and expectations.