I'm a retired, decorated Air Force combat veteran. I graduated from Washington University St Louis, earning a Master of Science in Social Work with an emphasis in Social Entrepreneurship. ​I have years of experience as a therapist working with the military, veterans, and various populations. I've worked as a subject matter expert in wellness programs such as suicide prevention, substance abuse, alcohol and drug abuse, and smoking cessation. I was a certified resiliency trainer and instructor for over 15 years. 

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

Welcome! I'm Margaret Rivera. Please take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health. Starting therapy can be empowering yet scary 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 many other issues that may come up. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. 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.

My passion is to help people develop meaning, purpose, direction, and belonging in their lives. I help people win in life both professionally and personally. Licensed as a LMFT in the state of Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. Ordained minister with Assemblies of God. With over 32 years of military experience, I am a retired U.S. Army Ranger Chaplain having served in conventional and Special Operation organizations. As an Army Chaplain, I have worked with individuals and couples for over 17 years. I have taught, trained, counseled, and coach over 8,000 professionals across the U.S. Army and faith-based communities. I have experience in helping clients find meaning, purpose, and direction in their lives while working through stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I help my clients gain clarity on their desired outcomes. A goal I strive for is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and purposeful life or relationship takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Cheryl Edinbyrd, LPC-S, LM, LMT, LCDC Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor | Licensed Midwife | Licensed Esthetician | Licensed Massage Therapist | Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Cheryl meets clients where they are, integrating a range of therapeutic modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Interpersonal Hypnotherapy—to promote healing and personal growth. Meeting clients where they are

I believe healing starts with connection— Connection to yourself, your story, and the people around you. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for growth, you don’t have to navigate it alone. ✨ This is a space where you are seen, heard, and supported. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start therapy. Maybe you’re: • Overthinking everything • Feeling emotionally drained • Struggling in your relationships • Carrying things you haven’t said out loud

Congratulations to you for finally taking time for yourself! It would be a privilege to be able to empower and support you through your journey to the better version of yourself. As a Clinical Social Worker Supervisor, I Jolanna "Jodi" Watson-Brown am licensed to diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. Such difficulties occur to us as humans every day and we don't have to go through these things alone. We will work together to develop strategies to change behavior or cope with difficult situations. I specialize in supporting those dealing with chronic illness, life's transitions and learning to truly love and heal from within. I am also a facilitator of support groups of caregivers, cancer survivors and healthcare compassion exhaustion professionals. I utilize the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model to guide our work together. Professional work experience includes a vast skill set in the complex healthcare field working with diverse populations and our great veterans as a Certified case manager. Therefore, solution focused therapy can also be utilized for short term goals or even long term planning needs, resources and care coordination assistance. I would be honored to support you in your journey of personal growth and healing.

A holistic mental health clinician, I am passionate about collaborating with people seeking guidance and methods to assist them through mental health issues and stresses, understanding themselves. I love creative problem-solving and believe in the strength and resilience of people to overcome obstacles and boundaries in order to expand and realize their full potential. Safety and confidentiality are high priorities with each client, as are creating a supportive yet challenging working relationship with you through individualized attention in each session.

I am licensed in Texas with an associates in justice administration, a bachelor's in justice administration with a focus on human services and a minor in psychology, and a master's of arts in counseling. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, and anger management. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I have worked with all levels of addiction, Bexar County Probation, in-patient recovery, wounded transition for military members, domestic violence, and crisis intervention.

Your therapist can be the person you are unafraid to share your innermost thoughts with. You shouldn’t have to worrry about your therapist’s genuine interest in your life and what happens in it. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with experience and diverse background. My previous experience includes-- outpatient/inpatient mental health facilities, working with first responders- military, medical staff, other therapists and of course private practice. I also have over 10 years experience with social services and education. I am currently accepting new patients.

I am passionate about helping people navigate the challenges of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and addiction. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside clients in community mental health centers, academic medical settings, and private practice, supporting them as they heal, grow, and discover what’s possible for their lives. I am also deeply passionate about teaching and sharing knowledge—I’ve taught college courses on addiction treatment and have led trainings for other therapists on how to provide effective, compassionate care. I earned my graduate degree from the University of Chicago. When I’m not in session, you’ll often find me enjoying a good book, trying out a new recipe, or enjoying quiet moments with my spouse and our two cats.

Hi, I’m Julie. I’m a therapist with over 17 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges—including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major transitions. I’ve had the privilege of working with people of all ages in a variety of settings, which has deepened my respect for each person’s unique journey. My style is warm and collaborative, grounded in trust, compassion, and genuine respect. I use an eclectic, strength-based approach to help clients build practical tools, navigate difficulties, and reconnect with what matters most. Above all, I strive to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly understood—because healing begins when you feel seen and accepted just as you are.

Welcome. My name is Sandhya Nair and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice in the state of Texas. I believe therapy is meant to be a space of mutual collaboration, to help work towards and help understand those aspects of your life that motivated you to seek guidance. I believe that each situation is unique, just like the individuals involved. I embrace multiple modalities that include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Self-Compassion. I thus embrace a client-centric approach of unconditional positive regard where the goal is for you to embrace your inner strength, leading to your desired clinical outcomes. Also as a female South Indian-American trauma-informed and culturally sensitive therapist in Texas. My personal and professional experiences have created a unique understanding of the minority stressors, cultural trauma, and other stressors that are common to those who identify as this minority in America. My goal thus is to create a safe space that encourages expression of this with respect and balance. All of My Sessions are Virtual and Once we agree upon a time, I will send you my QR code for the first session on Whatsapp. I will not be conducting my sessions on the Grow Platform.

Hello there! Kudos to you for taking this step! Transition and growth require courage, which is why it is impressive that you have chosen to take this first step. As an Air Force veteran, I bring a grounded, dedicated, and compassionate perspective to my practice. As a disabled veteran, as a social worker who has worked heavily in the field of supporting people with different abilities, I have grown to become significantly person-centered in my practice, seeking to allow every client to have a voice, while considering each client as the expert in their healing journey. I am not here to tell you who to be, but t help highlight the strengths you already possess. Together, we will create a safe, collaborative space where your vice is the priority and your healing is the mission.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Army veteran dedicated to helping adults navigate stress, trauma, anxiety, substance use concerns, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I work with individuals seeking clarity, resilience, and meaningful personal growth through a supportive, practical, and goal-oriented approach tailored to their unique experiences and strengths. My counseling style is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping clients develop healthier coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and create lasting positive change in their personal and professional lives.

Therapy can be a space for clarity, growth, and healing. In my practice, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore difficult emotions and experiences. My goal is to help you process what you've been through, build insight, and develop tools to move forward with greater peace and purpose. As a U.S. Army veteran and Licensed Vocational Nurse, I bring a unique perspective shaped by working with diverse populations in a variety of settings. My background in healthcare gives me a deep understanding of both emotional and physical pain—and the resilience of the human spirit. I’m here to support you on your path to healing and emotional wellness

I have a PhD in Psychology and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is licensed in the states of Texas and North Carolina. I have vast amount of experience in addressing Anxiety, PTSD and Depression. I have experience in addressing life experiences, anger management, and marital conflict. My military experience has allowed me to have various approaches to addressing client's needs.

Hi there, I'm Steve and I've been in clinical services now for several years. I've worked with a wide variety of people from lots of different parts of the world with just as many different issues, but absolutely recognize that yours is individual and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to any problem. In counseling with me, we will discuss and utilize a variety methods to meet your individual needs.

My name is Rossen. However, you can call me "Ross". I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with eleven years of experience in various mental health environments. I have experience helping adults with anxiety, depression, anger and other life stressors; navigate through the "rough" times and hopefully come out stronger and more resilient. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help my clients unravel, uncover and work towards understanding how they process and react to life's struggles. Sometimes the answer is starring us in the face, it can be difficult to see it. Together, we can work towards your goals and establishing a healthier mind and body connection. I look forward to working with you. Please feel free to contact me.

As a therapist, I show up with authenticity, compassion, and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience. I am grounded in a social justice lens and committed to creating a space where clients, especially adults, veterans, and individuals navigating grief, depression, or racial identity challenges, feel seen, supported, and empowered. My work is centered on helping people reclaim their stories, build resilience, and move through life’s complexities with greater clarity and confidence.

My name is Janessa Butts, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a background in military service. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, with specialized training in mental health, substance use, and trauma-informed care. My clinical background includes working in inpatient settings, supporting clients with complex mental health concerns, co-occurring disorders, chronic health conditions, ADHD, and more. These experiences have deepened my commitment to individualized care rooted in compassion and respect.

Lou Ann Humphrey, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides mental health services to individuals. She has a Master of Education in Counseling and is a National Certified Counselor. I specialize in helping people find unique solutions for their unique issues. I graduated from Lamar University in Beaumont, TX, in December 2020. I completed over 3000 hours of supervision. I began offering Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Recently, I have transitioned to an office setting. We can sit on the couches or at the kitchen table. I like to offer a laid-back, comfortable setting.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Masters from the University of Texas in Arlington and have been practicing within the mental healthcare field for the past five years. As a dedicated professional in the mental health and substance use field, I have had the privilege of working with youth, adults, and geriatrics, helping individuals navigate some of the most challenging aspects of their lives.

I hold both my undergraduate and master’s degrees in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin's School of Social Work. This educational foundation has equipped me with a strong understanding of social work theory, research, and practice. My professional experience has further deepened my commitment to providing evidence-based, compassionate care. I have engaged with individuals, families, and communities facing a range of challenges, such as mental health concerns, chronic illness, trauma, and life transitions. This hands-on experience allows me to tailor therapeutic approaches to meet each client’s unique needs.

Welcome to my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) in Texas and also an Army Veteran. I received my Master of Social Work in 2020 from the University of Houston's Graduate College of Social Work and have worked in the mental health field since 2018. I strive to help adults and teenagers assess their mental health situations and develop solutions for life's problems.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little about me. I am a social worker with 13 years of experience helping individuals work through life's challenges with compassion, understanding, and practical support. I have specialized in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and enjoy helping people better understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they can create meaningful, lasting change. I work with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, post-traumatic stress, and other life challenges. My experience working with veterans and their families has given me a deeper understanding of the unique experiences that can affect emotional well-being, while also strengthening my ability to support people from many different backgrounds. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and client-centered. I believe therapy is a partnership where you are heard, respected, and encouraged every step of the way. Together, we will identify your strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create realistic goals that fit your life. My goal is to help you build resilience, gain confidence, and feel better equipped to navigate whatever challenges you may be facing.

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.

My focus is reconciliation. Healing is often achieved through us becoming reconciled with self and/or others. It can be a process that allows us to identify and modify our thoughts and behaviors. We are all a work in progress and rightly so as circumstances are constantly changing. I believe that each person should have an opportunity to express themselves in a safe, nurturing, judgement free zone. As we seek to gain an understanding of self and others, often we experience a shift in our processing. If you are stuck or it feels like you are spinning out of control like a hamster on a wheel, let’s talk about “it”.

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 specialize in brief collaborative therapy where we look at current issues, how you cope, how you learned the coping skills and alternatives solutions. We will look at your self-care including spirituality and how to improve your self care if needed. Weekly assignment tasks related to your short term goals will be agreed upon. We will work together to learn and understand where you are now and how the past has impacted you. Engaging in therapy can be anxiety provoking, exciting and freeing. If you are willing to work on our mutually agreed upon assignment between our counseling sessions, you will find we make progress. I worked in criminal justice prior to being licensed in Michigan where I grew up and studied. Upon moving to Chicagoland, I worked 10 years with a crisis response team and an employee assistance program. This is where I learned to develop skills to drill down into client issues and work with the client to reduce discomfort and improve coping skills. Our counseling sessions did not last beyond 6-8 meetings. I moved to Texas in 2003 and since then have continued to work on crisis teams and with military members/spouses on installations. My practice has been focused on supporting couples communications; life transitions including grief/loss, career transitions, parenting skills and integrating/applying client's spiritual practice into every day life. Clients describe me as safe to talk with about difficult topics; active and contributing to the dialog; creative in opening up behavioral and cognitive options.

Greetings. I am Cassandra, a RN and a Licensed and Board Certified Trauma informed and Neuropsychotherapist. I would be pleased to have the opportunity to serve as your Trusted Professional Therapist. I am also Board Certified as a Christian Counselor and welcome most Spiritual and Religious Belief systems. I completed my undergraduate nursing education at Howard University and Prairie View A and M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 1988. I completed my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in 2015 from Liberty University. I am currently attending Harvard Medical School in a Bio-Pharma Leadership program to be completed in July, 2026. I have more than three decades of comprehensive Healthcare and Mental Health experience. As a Registered Nurse and a Licensed Professional Therapist, I desire to use my comprehensive Healthcare background to provide a unique and beneficial counseling experience for my clients. My primary Therapeutic model is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness therapy, and Spirituality and other Therapeutic methods per client request. I accept clients who are individual and/or couples without regard to their sexual orientation or cultural preferences. I approach my clients with dignity, compassion, and respect and am accepting of them wherever they are in their cycle of life. It would be my honor to serve as your Therapist and to assist you to identify and address the challenges you may be facing in life. I encourage you to allow me to assist you on your healing journey. I would be happy to have you schedule an appointment for a complimentary 15 minute consultation or an actual intake session. I accept most insurance plans, EAP, and Cash-pay clients.

Hello, I'm Kim! I've wanted to be in a helping profession since I can remember; I just didn't know exactly how. I fell in love with Social Work during a global childrens’ health course in undergrad in 2005 and the rest is history. I continued studying Social Work, Psychology and Sociology and learning as much as I could inside and outside the classroom. I’ve worked in many different professional settings including child welfare, managing group homes for individuals with disabilities, early intervention assessment and skills training, care management in a domestic violence survivor program, and as a mental health technician, social worker in an emergency department, therapist and Assistant Clinical Director in a psychiatric hospital. My diverse professional and personal backgrounds make me a holistic provider.

I am here for you. My name is Dr. Jay Rhodes, and I am a board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) in Oklahoma, a Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in Maryland, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) in Oklahoma and Texas; and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I have a passion for helping individuals find healing, growth, and transformation in their lives. I have extensive education, experience, and expertise in various fields of counseling, ministry, and human relations. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures in various settings, such as military bases, combat zones, hospitals, schools, embassies, consulates, and nonprofit homeless ministries. I have helped individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups deal with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, anger, traumatic stress, and relationships. I have helped others; I can help you.

Welcome to M.A.D. Therapy, LLC! I am Misty Annette Diaz, PhD (abd), and we’re all M.A.D. here. Together we’ll move from survival mode into a life guided by confidence, connection, and change. As an LMFT and PhD (abd), helping relationships thrive is my ultimate goal. Lasting change begins with the relationship we have with ourselves. I actively challenge the patterns that keep clients stuck. I guide my clients out of survival mode into the present moment. I incorporate trauma informed yoga to reset the nervous system. I am EMDR trained. In-person & in-home case-by-case. Stay safe and talk soon. My experience varies from severe mood disorders to generalized anxiety. Niches with training: Suicidality and high-risk, LGBTQIA+, Military, Adoption.

Stephanie Passmore is the founder of The Narrative Reframe, PLLC and has more than a decade of experience as a licensed professional counselor. She can help you change your perspective and create a new life motto. It's essential to remember that you have the power to take control of your story and say that this is not how it's going to end. Stephanie can identify the root of your narrative and assist you in making the necessary changes to live the life you deserve. So, if you want to create a better future, take the first step and let Stephanie help you transform your story into one of success and fulfillment.

I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Houston Texas. I received my Master's in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio Texas and have worked with children and families for over 10 years, initially providing case management to children and pregnant women, along with psychotherapy. Lately, my focus has been on young (and not so young) adults dealing with life transitions through careers, relationships, parenthood, middle adulthood into flourishing older years

Welcome! I'm Tiffany Newkirk. I applaud you taking the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. 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. I enjoy working together with clients to help the find peace in their lives. We all encounter struggles throughout our lives and sometimes we need to process our situations with a trusted individual so we can recover and experience the fullness of our lives. Let us start your path to healing.

I have been working with individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, sexual addiction, and mental health challenges for the past ten years. I have a real heart to walk alongside you to encourage, support, and empower you to move forward in your recovery needs. I graduated from Liberty University in 2014 with an MA in Professional Counseling and completed a Doctoral program specializing in treating trauma-related challenges. I approach recovery through the eyes of motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy.

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.

Kelly Hays is a LCSW-S, practicing in Social Work since 1989 after graduation from Our Lady of The Lake University of San Antonio, TX. Kelly is a Retired Navy (Hospital Corpsman) /Army (Social Work Officer) Veteran and has served in Family Advocacy, Hospice, Outpatient Mental Health, Inpatient Mental Health, Physical Rehabilitation, Juvenile Probation, Veteran Services over the past 30 plus years. Kelly has served as a “Life-After-Loss” facilitator for the American Cancer Society as well as a “Stephen-Ministry Leader” in Two Lutheran Congregations in the past. Kelly has also taught for “Park University” (Sociology) and UTSA. (Social Work) and St. Philips College (Medical Terminology) previously. Kelly is also a Social Work Supervisor for those seeking LCSW licensure. Kelly has an eclectic approach to therapy as well as experience in CBT, Motivational Interviewing, is trained in EMDR and has training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Kelly also is a professional member of CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, (NACBT) American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) National Association of Christians in Social Work (NACSW)

I am a board-certified, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), licensed in multiple states, specializing in stress management, anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, and women’s mental health. With an integrative approach that is person-centered, solution-focused, and culturally-sensitive, I aim to create a therapeutic space that fosters growth, healing, and empowerment. My therapeutic style is collaborative, incorporating empathy, non-judgmental support, and individual accountability to help you navigate life’s challenges. Through a combination of mindfulness, goal-setting, and emotional resilience-building, we’ll work together to identify the changes that will reduce emotional disturbances and improve your overall mental well-being. Therapy should be a space where you feel heard, validated, and supported, and I strive to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors."

I have 14 years experience in the mental health field. This has mostly been in substance abuse and trauma. My interests mostly revolve around overcoming adverse events. We are shaped by events both good and bad. I believe that a bad or harmful event does not have to totally negative consequences. Pain can lead to both wisdom and growth. A full and rich life is possible despite adverse events. I am committed to both body based and thought based therapies. Improving the mind body connection is often the first step towards a richer and more understandable life.