Book 100+ of the best Self Esteem therapists in Texas

Hello there! Welcome to Grow Therapy. You may call me Paul. Do you find it difficult to connect with or find a therapist that places you first? I place a huge emphasis on listening to you while using a person-centered approach. I empower you to be able to identify what it is that is troubling you in a complex world of thoughts and emotions. We'll use a holistic model to integrate mind, body, and spirit. This encourages you to discover the skills or strategies that help you to be the best you can be. I help people learn to identify the root of their issue(s). This not only addresses the symptoms but improves healing at the core of the problem thereby promoting lasting change. I truly believe in a person's ability to grow and change as you travel down your pathway to mental health and well-being. Learning to live in the present allows us to experience healing and wellness in the here and now. Whether you're dealing with complex relationship issues that seem hopeless and overwhelming or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space where healing and growth are encouraged. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with trust, empathy and compassion while using evidence-based techniques so you can overcome barriers and obstacles that have been holding you back. I am honored to work with you and wish you all the best on your journey.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Life Coach with 15 years’ experience. I believe that all people have the ability to heal, and with the right guidance and support you can break free from whatever you feel is holding you back from living the life you want to live. Are you dealing with anxiety, life transitions, depression, stress, personal, or relational issues? Working with a therapist to overcome your challenges can be a crucial part of coping with life's ups and downs.

Hi, I’m Ashley Griffin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting adults as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. I specialize in helping clients feel more grounded, self-aware, and empowered during moments that feel overwhelming, uncertain, or emotionally heavy. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space for people who are struggling with stress, self-esteem, grief, trauma, or relationship challenges—especially those related to gender-based or interpersonal violence. Using a trauma-informed and strength-based lens, I incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, and other evidence-based approaches to meet each client’s unique needs. My goal is to help you reconnect with your values, build effective coping strategies, and feel more like yourself again. Whether you’re feeling stuck, burned out, emotionally drained, or simply trying to find your way through a new season of life, I’m here to help you move forward with compassion, clarity, and purpose.

I am an experienced LCSW with whose been working with clients for 28 years. This experience has led me to meet and work with thousands of clients throughout the country and world to expand my understanding of the complexities and struggles which are part of the growth process. I've learned through active engagement, demonstrating consistency, and applying effective techniques and tools those I work with experience effective and sustainable growth. My experiences have taught me the power of change and what occurs when clients choose to actively engage in their lives and the process it takes to work through many of the hurdles we all face. I've had multiple roles throughout my career which has given me great insight into the treatment process. I've served as a clinician, clinical director, consultant, program owner, and CEO. I've had a great deal of experience working with addiction, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and dual-diagnosis issues. My depth of experience has given me great insight and allows me to effectively engage and address and provide positive outcomes for clinically complex issues.

Hi! As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years experience working in community health centers, out-patient facilities, and in a private practice setting, I most enjoy helping adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and recent life transitions such as career changes, divorce, and loss/grief. I will provide a safe and supportive space free of judgment and bias where we can begin a collaborative journey towards improving your quality of living and feeling more fulfilled in all the roles you play.

Hello everyone. I have worked in mental health and education for 25+ years. I have worked with both men and women extensively. What I find most interesting is how different we all are. Far too often I see treatment as being described as "this method may help this person" but the reality is, is that what works for one may not work for another. Your individuality is what makes you special. Identifying what you want to be may help you get there.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in both Texas and Louisiana. I received my master’s in social work (clinical and mental health) from the University of Houston; my second master’s in clinical psychology from Walden University. I have been in the Helping Profession for 17 years. I help tweens, adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with questions, thoughts, and behaviors they don’t understand and want some help unraveling their challenges.

I have a M.A. in Professional Counseling and a B.S. in Psychology. I've received training in EMDR and mindfulness. I am a trauma informed therapist who specializes in working with trauma & PTSD, anxiety, identity exploration, and life transitions. My approach is relational, strengths based, and incorporates mindfulness and EMDR. I believe in empowering clients to make their own choices and decide how they want their lives to look.

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience working with adolescents and young and middle-aged adults. I earned an M.Ed. in School Counseling from Texas Christian University, a Professional Counseling Credential from Texas Wesleyan University, and a B.S. in Education from Langston University. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self-empowerment, job skills, divorce, and an array of other issues.

Hello, my name is Stephanie Yonkers. As a therapist, my role is to help you navigate challenges, understand yourself better, and work towards the goals that are important to you. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, , which means we’ll work on exploring thoughts and behaviors that affect how you feel. Together, we'll explore what’s going on for you and how we can work through it. Whether it’s anxiety, relationship issues, or something else, I’m here to support you in a way that feels right for you.

Hello my name is Madonna Dishmon. I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15 plus years of experience in providing therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families. I have a passion for helping people. I have always been a helper in my family, community and professional career. I have a strong background in cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, anxiety, depression, individual and relationship counseling, I am committed to helping clients navigate life's challenges, heal from past experiences, and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling future.

With over 15 years of professional experience, I am committed to helping others find ways to be their best. I want you to be successful. Because of that, I work hard to find out where you're stuck in life and how to get you to feel better. I am licensed in Colorado and Texas. I graduated from Adams State College in Colorado where I enjoyed living in the San Luis Valley, taking day hikes on the weekends and taking in the majestic mountain views.

Hi! I work with overwhelmed women who struggle with parenting, people-pleasing and perfectionism who want to learn to set boundaries and make decisions so that they can find balance and joy in the multiple roles they are filling (mother, wife, friend, daughter, employee, manager, etc.). I aim to help you learn to find your passion, set boundaries, cope with anxiety, process and plan for changes in your life, or heal from past trauma.

I'm a licensed therapist in Texas with over 10 years of experience, specializing in helping women of color navigate life transitions, anxiety, and personal growth. I work with clients facing various life challenges, including stressors related to career, family dynamics, and personal life. Through a holistic approach that integrates therapeutic practices, spirituality, mindfulness techniques, and goal setting, I empower clients to overcome limiting beliefs, reframe negative thought patterns, and connect with their inner strengths, often leading to significant improvements in stress management and decision-making within a few weeks.

I'm an LPC based in Texas that continuously works toward increasing my cultural competency, passionate about helping my clients reach their personal goals. I coordinate our sessions to focus on your needs and help you to overcome your stressors and guide yourself to your best possible life. If you struggle to focus on the here and now and want to explore your identity, book a session and let me help you reach your therapeutic goals.

Hi, we all know that life can offer many challenges and sometimes we just need a catalyst or bridge to assist with crossing over (going within) to the next journey or adventure in our lives. I am convinced that there is not one therapeutic approach to working with clients. That's why I use an integrative approach designed specially to meet your individual needs. I am experienced in working with diverse populations and have worked in the mental health field for over 30 years.

Hello! I'm Destiny, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. With a passion for empowering individuals to achieve their full potential, I've dedicated my career to providing compassionate and effective therapy. I received my Master's degree from Our Lady of the Lake University and have been practicing social work at the Master's level for the past 8 years.

I challenge you while celebrating the changes you are making in your life. I help you to look at your concerns from a different perspective. I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be. I am not the typical therapist in that I do not use a cookie cutter approach to treatment. I like to work with my clients in a way that empowers them while challenging their thinking patterns to change the behaviors that are no longer serving them. With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder. I utilize action methods with traditional therapy techniques to help you explore and break through the thought processes and behaviors that are holding you back from being the person you want to be. Through a collaborative approach, I meet you where you are at and assist your growth.

Hey there! My name is Heather and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas and Louisiana. I graduated from Lamar University in August 2022 with a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Relevant work experience includes working within the Texas prison system providing mental health services to inmates, working with children under conservatorship of Child Protective Services, and general outpatient case management.

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

I 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.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed out of Texas. I have my master's degree from University of Texas at El Paso and I've been working in the field since 2015. I have a background in medical social work with a focus now on mental health. I help people learn more about their mental health and develop skills to alleviate distress like self compassion.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing teletherapy to teens, adults, and couples. I collaborate with patients to find solutions to the challenges that disrupt their lives. Overcoming a crisis in your relationship, working your way through loss as you grieve a loved one or life change, managing feelings or moods that overwhelm you and keep you from healthy functioning......these are just a few of the reasons that people begin therapy. Whatever might be challenging you and keeping you from living your best life, we can find solutions together, in therapy. Let's get started!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I completed my undergraduate degree in Social Work at Texas Lutheran University in 2000, and then completed my master's degree in social work at The University of Texas at Austin in 2006. I am also a Registered Play Therapist. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, work towards setting goals and achieving them.

I am a compassionate and dedicated licensed therapist committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional healing and personal growth. With 6 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations facing a wide range of challenges. I create a safe space to guide you on the road to empowerment. I provide support to individuals who experience depression, trauma, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem issues, and overall difficulty navigating through life challenges.

Life is one big journey! I would genuinely love to help you navigate through some of life's storms that might have taken you off your path. I've been on journeys with people from all walks of life: people struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, experiencing homelessness, loss of loved ones and jobs, disenfranchisement due to sexuality, spirituality, complex relationships and much more. Life is beautifully complex. It's my goal to help you identify the tools you already possess and obtain new tools needed to get through life's storms, prepare you for future storms and to thrive. Together, let's discover your North Star and help you get back on your path. You're not alone. I earned my Master's in Social Work from University of Southern California in 2019 and Bachelors in Psychology from University of New Mexico in 2012. I have extensive knowledge in, and even passionate about, therapies: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, but I truly believe that treatment is to be tailored to each individual I serve.

Are you feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your relationships? Does anxiety or stress seem impossible to shake off? Maybe you're at a crossroads with your career or finding it hard to connect with yourself. Or perhaps you've experienced trauma that you cannot navigate alone; you're not alone, and there is help available. I'm Ehsan Shabahang, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to helping you overcome life's challenges. Having worked with over 4,000 clients, including individuals, families, couples, students, groups, children, and non-profit organizations, I understand that life can be unpredictable. My military experience and multidisciplinary approach to therapy have taught me resilience and the importance of mental health. As an LPC, I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am currently pursuing a PhD in Social Psychology. I use a unique blend of therapy models in my practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and sex therapy as a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP). This diverse approach allows me to better address your mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy to help you build a stronger, more positive relationship with yourself. My approach is especially supportive for those who have experienced trauma, providing a safe and nurturing environment to process and heal. Whether you're dealing with career stress, relationship issues, trauma, or looking to improve your self-awareness, I'm here to help. I offer a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where you can find the support you need. Together, we'll use practical tools and scientifically proven methods to help you achieve your goals. Take the first step towards a better life. Let's embark on this journey of growth and self-discovery together.

Hi, I’m Constance Elaine — and I’m so glad you’re here. With more than ten years of experience in the field of Counseling Psychology and Trauma care, I specialize in working with women who are tired of surface-level solutions and ready for something deeper. Women who aren't looking for quick fixes, but searching for real, lasting transformation. My approach is integrative, holistic, and compassionate — blending faith-based wisdom with cutting-edge somatic and neuroscience-informed practices like Brainspotting, HeartMath, and nervous system regulation tools. This isn’t traditional talk therapy. This is restoration for the whole woman — mind, body, and spirit.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in Oklahoma with a Master’s degree from Capella University and five years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges related to stress, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, and parenting issues. My compassionate and collaborative approach empowers clients to find practical solutions, healing, and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, supportive space for everyone to explore their concerns and reach their goals.

Counseling was my first chosen career path. Throughout my life, I enjoyed being a listening ear to others and delving into their past to see the root cause of all their issues. Understanding human psychology has always been my primary passion and focus and I enjoy assisting others on their paths to living healthier and more productive lifestyles. My primary areas of focus have been anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and impulse control. I utilize an integrative, holistic approach to therapy and have experience in private practice, school settings, home-based interventions, and teletherapy. I look forward to assisting you on your journey toward improved mental health and success.

I have twelve years of clinical experience counseling individuals struggling with issues including anxiety, depression and trauma. I greatly value providing you with an authentic and judgement free experience. I find my clients appreciate my direct approach. In other words, I will give it to you straight. We will work towards what you want in life and that often means moving through what one historically avoids. What lies on the other side of the pain is the life you were meant to live. I also enjoy incorporating humor into our work together. Anxiety, depression and trauma often steal our joy and sense of humor. Joy and humor can be found again.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from Springfield College and have been practicing for 5 years. I help adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and other disorders become the best versions of themselves. We will work together to figure out the best methods and techniques that fit your individual needs. My whole purpose is to empower you, and help guide you through the process.

Everyone is familiar with the term “If life gives you lemons make lemonade” That process can leave a person feeling unsettled, doubtful, or anxious. No matter what life brings us rest assured knowing that there is a place we’re the tools to handle those situation exists. This is why a therapeutic relationship is so valuable. Utilizing a person centered approach built around your unique needs and experiences we are able to gain new insight, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate self-compassion. This will help to discover and embrace the best version of yourself

Hello, I am glad you took the time to read my biography. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a heart for people who are looking for empowerment and growth. I personally know what this feels like and how difficult it can be. I was blessed to have people in my life to help me during my "trying times." Honestly, I still do. I am Bi-lingual, (Spanish) and have been practicing for 13 years. I have worked with teenagers, adults, and couples. I do not work with children due to my lack of training. My experience entails working with addictions and various disorders. I believe in both therapy and medication and am cultural competent to utilize as resources. My heart is working with trauma and am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that my job is to have my clients get to the point where they are no longer needing my services. That's right, to get myself fired! I believe that we were created in the image of the Creator which means the ability to love and be loved and to have the freedom to make wise decisions which help navigate us through this journey we are on. Thank you again for reading my biography. I wish you the freedom you are looking for and believe YOU ARE WORTH IT!

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters degree from Amberton University and I have been practicing for just over 1 year. I help children and adolescents, adults, couples and seniors. I aim to help others who suffer from anxiety, self-esteem issues, depression and other mental health issues. Helping with life transitions, stress and life decisions is a main goal to help others to live their best possible life.

Hello, I am a Licensed professional counselor from Texas. I received my masters in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor in 2018. I have done work in the individual setting, with probation clients and in the prison population. I have worked with people through anxiety, depression, existential angst, identity formation, communication issues, children, adolescents, couples, and groups. I have an undergraduate degree in Director of Christian education with an emphasis in theology from Concordia University in Austin. Through my experiences in these areas my goal is to connect with people in an authentic way. Having someone to navigate through the troubles can be a game changer and I invite you to come as you are!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in South Texas, dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health support. With experience working with diverse populations, including children and teens, I specialize in helping clients navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. My approach is centered on creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore their thoughts and emotions while developing the tools they need to thrive. I have worked with clients facing a variety of concerns, including trauma and abuse, stress and anxiety, depression, family dynamics, gender identity exploration, and self-esteem challenges. My goal is to empower each person I work with by fostering growth, healing, and emotional well-being. No matter what you are facing, I am here to support you on your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I have been practicing for 8 years. I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, work stress, family issues, grief, and life transitions. I strive to create an environment of genuine acceptance that promotes a sense of safety and encouragement for personal growth. I believe that we all possess strength within us to conquer every challenge we face with the right support.

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!

Hey there! I'm Kelyn, a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. First things first, take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards taking care of yourself and improving your mental health because, let's face it - starting therapy can be overwhelming, scary, and exciting all at the same time. I have been practicing for about 10 years now and I love helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and a number of other issues become the best versions of themselves.

I am licensed in Texas with over 20 years of Therapy experience. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I received my M.S at William Carey University in Psychology. My treatment approach is CBT, solution-focused, and client-centered. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, grief, marriage and family related problems, stress, and LGBTQ+.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC). I am licensed in Texas as well as Georgia. I received my Masters from the Texas Wesleyan University and have been practicing for 10 years. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, parenting issues, career/life transitions, family relationships, and anger management. I utilize a Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Client-centered approach to therapy. I strive to empower my clients to change the way they view themselves and to focus on being more accepting of who they are and desire to be. I approach goal setting as a collaborative partnership in which the client is proactive in helping to set their own goals for therapy.

Life can bring challenging chapters in the narrative of our life. Processing and moving forward from these struggles is possible. You have taken a significant step in reaching out. On my journey of healing, I have faced losses that shook my sense of self and I had to move through experiences I did not believe I would have the strength to recover from. I am a person who is comfortable with the uncomfortable. In fact, because I have had to work through most of my dark times alone, I seek to be a support for individuals when challenges arise. A guiding goal for me is to reduce the number of individuals who have to mirror my lived experience. I am an advocate for expressive arts, strength-based, and body-centered approaches. I have over 20 years combined experience working with children and adolescents, as an educator, artistic director, and counselor. I am honored to be a resource of support for youth and adults experiencing grief and processing traumatic experiences. Should you like to learn more about my approach you can contact me at moonflowergrowing@outlook.com.

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have worked in mental health and emotional well-being for the last 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.

Welcome! I'm Jamie Salas LPC 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 am dedicated to helping people navigate the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, and personal challenges with compassion and understanding. I specialize in addressing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and self-esteem issues. My aim is to create a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, grow emotionally, and build healthier relationships. If your goals include improving emotional regulation, building stronger relationships, gaining self-awareness, and fostering positive change, don't hesitate to contact me.

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, and families. I work collaboratively with clients of all ages to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and of their problems. I provide a space to identify, analyze, and challenge any negative patterns that impact your life. I help clients to challenge limiting beliefs that may be holding them back from being their most authentic self.

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

I am a Clinical Social Worker and have been in the social work field for 23 years. I have worked in many different types of settings throughout my career and loved all of them. Many times I'm told "I don't know how you do what you do" and I always say, it's a gift, a calling and yes some of my jobs have been very difficult... however, I get to see the light at the end of the tunnel with my clients and this far exceeds the tough stuff, making it all worth every effort. My therapy background includes working for a homeless shelter and a transitional living facility for mentally ill both in New York. The remainder of my career is in Texas working for a federal prison for women, a school district for ages 3-18 to include home visits with parents, teaching parenting classes, Children's Advocacy Center for sexually and physically abused children and working with their families, along with the past two years online therapy for anyone in need.

Hello, I am Margie, Do you ever feel like there is not enough time in the day? Are you increasingly feeling off (meaning, that you know something is going on that is causing a disconnect but you are not sure what it is)? I assist people with finding/repairing their focus on what is most important to them in order to avoid/lessen burnout. Together we can identify what is not working and develop a plan for how to address the areas of disconnection. Together we will work as a partnership to develop strategies to create "a present and future that makes you feel more fulfilled." In addition to focusing on the mind, body soul connection, I also integrate mindfulness, music and art to help you improve yourself. Throughout life's twists and turns, I am here to help. Seeking therapy is a huge step and for various reasons, many people do not. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can take ownership of "what I want, what I need and where I want to go."