Therapists in Virginia

Welcome! With over 18 years of experience and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology granted at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, I am best positioned to serve individuals and families navigating challenges such as family conflicts, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. My therapeutic expertise extends across various cultural contexts, having practiced in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts, and currently holding active licenses in Maryland and Virginia.

My passion lies in helping others find solutions to their problems and live happier and productive lives. I am a graduate of University of Maryland- Baltimore (MSW) Clinical Social Work, and a graduate of UNC Charlotte (BA in Psychology/Criminal Justice).  I enjoy working with individuals and families, children, and adults, and I have a special passion for helping young adults overcome life’s challenges. I have experience in treating emotional and behavioral problems, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, schizophrenia, trauma, ADHD, conduct disorder, etc. I also have experience in working with diverse populations, using evidence-based approaches, and cultural sensitivity and awareness.

Hi there! I'm Sabrina G. Curry, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia and also licensed in New York. I hold a Master's in Social Work from Columbia University and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Fordham University. With 9 years of experience, I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate educational challenges, life stressors, career stress, burnout, depression, ADHD, Autism, and trauma. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, I'm down-to-earth and approachable. My background spans emergency services crisis counseling, psychotherapy, and school social work.

My name is Arega Gera. I always work to strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or . 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.

"True success is the predictable result of hard work, patience, sacrifice & learning put into practice everyday." - Unknown Hey there! Thank you for sliding on past my profile and the above quote is essential to not only my mindset in how I approach everyday as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) but also how I want to assist in creating a space for my clients. I am currently based in Pennsylvania & have over 10 years of experience working with an array of clients. I have helped many from young adults to older adults take a deep dive within themselves to challenge thoughts, perspectives and beliefs that create a mental and emotional limitation on becoming a more empowered and improved version of themselves. My goal is to respectfully challenge and guide clientele to look within themselves since they are the best expert on their own life and choices so that they can discover the innate skills and abilities that can take them to higher heights within their situations and lives.

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience working as a clinician, therapist , and crisis interventionist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use problems, psychosis, and ADHD. I also helped people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. I would like to clarify my expertise does not include eating disorders, or pornography addiction as of yet, although I do understand some of the symptoms and causes. My therapy style is genuine and solution focused.. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is dialectal behavioral based with strengths perspective and motivational interviewing. Any treatment plan to meet your needs will be collaborative, timely, and with measurable goals. I have worked extensively in crisis intervention in the agency and on the streets, in hospitals, and in mental health courts and case management agencies, and have managed in this capacity. I also have many years experience related to substance use disorders and have worked as a therapist utilizing primarily Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as my main approach and utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy . Regardless of any experience, upbringing, current, or past situation, everyone has choices they can make that best serves them and the life they want to live. I look forward to working with you!

My name is Joseph Shelton I am an LGBTQ identifying professional counselor who has extensive 12 years of experience. Over the last 12 years I have worked with individuals with addiction and various mental health disorders with a specialized focus on individuals with major depression anxiety and addiction. I have been in recovery my self for the last 10 going on 11 years since Nov 1 2013. I have extensive experience with my own recovery and LGBTQ issues and know what it means to recovery and effectively manage addiction and depression issues.

In my role as a mindfulness-based therapist, I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that is nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to delve into their inner workings with a sense of compassion and empathy. I emphasize the importance of being fully present in the current moment and embracing a mindset of acceptance without criticism in my therapeutic approach. Furthermore, I prioritize guiding clients toward cultivating a deep sense of self-compassion and understanding, recognizing these as fundamental elements for personal advancement and emotional reconciliation. By integrating mindfulness techniques and meditation practices, I actively assist clients in developing an enhanced self-awareness and fostering a compassionate outlook on their experiences.

First of all, I love what I do and to witness the positive changes clients make in their lives as a result of choosing therapy to help them accomplish what they want. Often the goal is to achieve symptom relief so as to not be overwhelmed by anxiety, mood disorders or be better able to manage the challenges of ADHD. Sometimes there is not a specific outcome identified but a need for ongoing support for dealing with life transitions or difficult people. Sometimes clients use therapy as a confidential sounding board where they can talk to an objective outsider about situations and sort out their perception of situations. I offer various ways to see and respond to situations that might otherwise not be considered. Your opinion as a client is the most important one and I will also honestly provide mine when asked for. I believe therapy can actually be something that you can look forward to and an opportunity to learn new skills to use long after you discontinue, and we can even have some fun and laughs along the journey.

Greetings, I am a newly licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California and have accumulated 12 years of experience in the field. My focus is on assisting adults and their families become more psychologically flexible as they navigate the complexities associated with chronic illness. Which can lead to greater resilience, emotional tolerance and better quality of life.

Welcome, I am Virginia and it is so nice to meet you! Thank you for taking this first step in feeling better, I believe this is the hardest one because people generally don't wake up one morning and desire to include a stranger in on their most personal thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and troublesome behaviors. It can be overwhelming, we can work together to find the right flow that works for you.

I'm bilingual independent Clinical social worker with background public health. Working in physical and mental health sector for about 17 years. I specifically working on mental health therapy for the last 6 years. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them increase self-awareness, understand the interpersonal and emotional aspects of change and growth, and identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that impact their day-to-day activities. I will help you in building better coping skills to overcome difficulties that have impacted your life. I speak Amharic language.

Greetings, I am a licensed mental health clinician licensed in Maryland, DC and Virginia with over seven years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My approach to therapy is holistic and strength-based, focusing on helping clients navigate and resolve a wide range of life’s challenges. By drawing upon each individual’s unique strengths, I work to foster resilience and encourage a continuous journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My goal is to create a supportive environment that empowers clients to uncover deeper insights, develop effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being.

I focus on treating a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career goals, and codependency, with the goal to minimize symptoms. We will work on a treatment plan with goals to help you start feeling better. You do not have to suffer and I can help you turn the corner to finally gaining insight and feeling much better.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been working with adults since 2010. I served as a military psychologist for a decade and specialize in Veterans mental health. I also have a significant amount of experience working with non-military clients. My goals for you in therapy are your goals. We will work together to ensure you are improving your quality of life! No problem is too small; your goals are my goals!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, dedicated to helping individuals cultivate meaningful, fulfilling lives. With over a decade of experience, I have devoted my career to guiding clients on their journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. My passion for supporting others began at a young age, shaping my approach to therapy as a safe, compassionate space where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and empowered.

I’m a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based support. I work with children and adults seeking to address anxiety, stress, depression, coping skills, ADHD, anger, or relationship concerns, tailoring my approach to each person’s unique circumstances. Through therapy, I aim to foster self-awareness, build coping strategies, and strengthen resilience, ultimately helping you find greater balance and fulfillment in your everyday life.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13) Non-judgment, morally supportive and passionate private practice that will help you to get through life struggles. You are the most important subject matter during all counseling sessions. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist that focuses on the person. Thinking outside of the box is of great importance to help all types of situations. Uplifting Lives and Services also helps interns and residents with supervision. We provide group therapy, substance abuse services and can connect you to other community service providers.

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina with licenses in both North Carolina and Virginia. I earned my Master's degree from Columbia University and have over a decade of experience in the social work field. I'm passionate about supporting people as they work toward their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 18 years of experience, proudly serving clients in Maryland and Virginia. I hold a Master’s degree from Towson University and specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to help clients gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward becoming their most authentic and empowered selves.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health health field and 8 years in private practice. As a certified sex therapist through AASECT, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating intimacy, relationship challenges and personal growth. My approach is warm, relational, and grounded in evidence-based practices like Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy. I specialize in working with couples to strengthen their connection, improve communication, and navigate challenges together. I integrate couples therapy with sex therapy to help partners deepen emotional and physical intimacy, address concerns around desire and sexual functioning, and foster a more fulfilling relationship. I feel it is important to offer clients practical tools and exercises they can use outside of therapy, because real change happens not just in the session, but daily life. These strategies help reinforce what we explore together, support continued growth between sessions, and empower clients to manage challenges as they arise. Whether it's mindfulness practices, communication techniques, journaling prompts, or coping skills, these resources give clients something tangible to hold onto as they build confidence and resilience on their own path. I view therapy as a collaborative process-an active partnership between client and therapist. We work together to explore challenges, identify goals, and create meaningful changes. While I bring clinical insight and guidance, the client brings their lived experience, wisdom, and willingness to grow.

I provide psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs, using evidence-based interventions to address your mental health challenges. Whether you’re seeking traditional talk therapy or a more integrated approach, my customizable services empower you to decide the focus while I guide you every step of the way. My psychotherapy style is designed around your goals, addressing factors that may impact your mental health, such as stress, relationships, and sleep. With options like nutrition guidance, cognitive behavioral therapy for sleep, stress management tools, and collaboration with your healthcare providers, I take an integrated approach to help you achieve meaningful and lasting change.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping adults navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and life transitions. I have a strong commitment to affirming and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, and much of my work centers on helping clients explore identity, manage minority stress, and heal from systemic and interpersonal harm. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I aim to create a space where clients feel empowered, supported, and able to move toward meaningful change.

Hello, I am Dr. Carrington L. Chatham, a clinical social worker with over ten years of experience working in various settings, including community mental health, acute psychiatric care, and veteran affairs. I am dedicated to serving a diverse clientele, including individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and those facing significant life transitions. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Positive Psychology, tailored to meet each client's unique needs. I aim to empower my clients to overcome their challenges, build resilience, and achieve their personal and emotional well-being goals.

Meet Tamera Your Partner in Healing and Growth As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and founder of Thrive Collective Services, I bring compassion, creativity, and clinical expertise to every session. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families who are navigating challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and life transitions. With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices: including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Family Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Psychoeducation, I provide a supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. My work is rooted in the belief that healing happens through connection, understanding, and practical tools. Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, a teen learning to manage emotions, or an adult working through generational trauma, I tailor treatment to meet you where you are. Together, we’ll build resilience, strengthen relationships, and move toward lasting change one step at a time.

Welcome! I'm Zena Jones Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, 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.

Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and a trained psychotherapist. I am licensed to practice in Virginia and Texas. I help clients resolve symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic, stress disorder‘s, and childhood sexual trauma. On the lighter side, I help people who are struggling with making life decisions such as careers, relationships becoming more focused and sports performance. Ultimately, I want to help clients optimize their life.

Hi, I'm Barbara! A warm and compassionate soul, with 20+ years in the mental health field. I was educated at Loyola University, New Orleans (BA in Psychology), later earning a Master's degree/Professional Counseling, in Central Virginia. I spent most of my career working in community mental health settings and have the breadth of varied experiences that entails. I'm familiar with the court and judicial system, the state mental hospital system, and worked alongside numerous other entities (DSS, FAPT, CSU, schools, courts, probation, pre-trial, CASA, drug and alcohol treatment centers, state health agencies, community services boards, healthcare providers, private acute facilities, and other BH healthcare entities). I'm licensed in the State of Virginia and have worked with folks from all different age groups and walks of life. My career began working with children and families, which still holds a very special place in my heart.

Hi! I am Tracy Moore a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I am a dedicated and experienced therapist with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. A graduate of Norfolk State University’s Master of Social Work program, I have extensively worked with diverse populations, providing compassionate, client-centered care. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Attachment-based approaches. Truly committed to empowering clients to overcome challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Welcome! Thanks for stopping by my page. I'd like to share a little bit about myself and my clinical experience. If you think we might be a good team, let's chat! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience providing an exceptional, solution-focused therapeutic experience to clients from all walks of life and across the age span. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, hospice and community mental health. I have successfully worked with clients and families with a variety of mental health issues, as well as those on the Autism spectrum and their families. I use a holistic approach to providing therapy to my clients and helping them to achieve their goals. I utilize a wide array of therapeutic techniques and am a Level II Certified EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) practitioner. I greatly enjoy my work with active military, veterans and their families and consider it an honor to do so. I am currently on most major insurance panels, including Medicare. Feel free to send me a message or schedule a session. I'm excited to begin our journey together!

Welcome to Grow! I am Dr. Tara. I admire your courage in seeking help for the challenges you are facing right now. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. With over 10 years of experience, I have provided both group and individual sessions. A few of my specialties are anxiety, depression, stress, and anger management. I use a variety of treatment approaches such as Cognitive Processing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical- Behavioral therapy, and others. Once we identify what you would like to get out of the counseling process, we can identify specific strategies to help meet those goals. I look forward to working with you!

I am Marc Lewis, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I completed training in 2003 at the Joint Master of Social Work program at North Carolina A & T State University and the University of NC at Greensboro. I was also part of the NC Child Welfare Collaborative, which provided specific training in NC DSS and child welfare. I began my career practicing as a child protective services social worker. I worked as a front-line worker and as a supervisor with children and families related to abuse and neglect. I have experience working in hospital and community settings. I currently work in private practice with children, adults, and geriatrics. I have experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused treatment, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I have worked with high conflict custody cases, and family reunification, and provided expert testimony in court proceedings. My Credentials are as follows: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW) Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, North Carolina Substance Abuse Practice Board, (LCAS) Certified Clinical Supervisor, North Carolina Substance Abuse Practice Board, (CCS) Certified Case Manager, Commission for Case Management, (CCM)

With 13 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families create lasting, positive change in their relationships. I integrate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method to offer a comprehensive, evidence-based approach tailored to each client's unique needs. My work with clients emphasizes building emotional resilience, improving communication, and fostering deep connections. Whether guiding couples through relationship challenges or supporting individuals in emotional growth, I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals and develop the tools they need for meaningful, fulfilling relationships.

Hi there, I’m Carrie! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience helping young adults, especially women of color, who often feel like they have to hold it all together for everyone else. Many of the clients I work with are navigating anxiety, self-doubt, life transitions, and the quiet pressure to prove themselves while feeling overwhelmed inside. I specialize in creating a warm, supportive space where you don’t have to perform or prove anything. Together, we’ll explore the patterns that make it hard to be kind to yourself and work toward feeling more connected, confident, and at home with who you are.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist( in NC). I have 24 years’ experience working with children and adults Including those with various mental health and addiction issues. Keith received his Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from Northern Arizona University in May 1994 and a his Masters of Social Work from California State University in December 2010. I have been trained with Triple P Level 3, Together Facing the Challenge provider and trainer, Motivational Interviewing, and is certificated in providing assessment and therapy for youth for problem sexual behaviors.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their overall mental health, life transitions, and finding purpose. My approach is always a strengths-based one, and ultimately learning what is and what is not working. At that point we can create and tailor a treatment plan that feels specific, realistic and measurable.

My name is LaTonya Thomas and I am a license clinical social worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 14 years and has worked with clients with anxiety, depression, grief, life transition and many more diagnosis. My goal is to help the clients become aware of what may be going on with them and ways to handle it.

Tileda Brown, LCSW, CSAC Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Certified Substance Abuse Counsel | Individual Therapy Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s most challenging transitions. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse and self-esteem. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions. I work with adults navigating issues such as: Struggling with Depression Anxiety and panic disorders Grief and loss Relationship and attachment issues Life transitions (divorce, career change, etc.) In our work together, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered. Healing isn’t linear, and I believe therapy should move at your pace. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in MD (initial license), and been licensed in 8 other states (AZ, CO, ID, NE, NV, VA, UT), actively practicing for 16 years, helping adults with anxiety, self-esteem, anger issues, gaining coping skills and strategies, discussing different perspectives and insights toward self, relationships with others, and their situations. I have been working with adults with existential crises, issues with motivation, and communication challenges effectively. Additionally, I like working with older adults and adults who are going through phase of life changes. Right now, I am pursuing a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and doing externships for neuropsychological assessment and therapy. I'm interested in helping older adults and assessing mild cognitive impairment and dementia. ***Due to my externship hours and schedules, along with starting my internship in September, my availability is extremely limited and subject to change frequently. I cannot provide long term therapy. I cannot accept new clients when my internship starts in September this year. If you make your first appt with me, please fill out the intake form without skipping questions thoroughly so that I can assess and provide more appropriate referral providers before meeting. I apologize for the inconvenience.

Dr. Fanta Conde is a licensed psychotherapist with a profound understanding and attention to individualism and multiculturalism. She is an alumna of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. In 2016, she earned a Doctorate Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. Fanta is passionate about her work in psychotherapy and her role in supporting clients to find peace, clarity, and happiness in all aspects of their lives. She has extensive experience in working with clients who present with various mental health disorders, relational concerns, and life transitions. Her approach to psychotherapeutic treatment is innovative and customized to the client’s individual needs. Dr. Conde brings a unique approach to individual, family, couple, and group therapy. Her extensive experience working in outpatient, residential, and in-home settings enables her to offer a multi-disciplinary, and creative approach to therapy.

As an Army Brat and Marine wife, I understand the unique challenges faced by military families. I'm also a mother of three young men, spending my weekends cheering them on at swim meets. Fully licensed in Georgia and several other states, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can share your experiences and work towards your personal growth. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to well-being.

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in Montana, Arizona (LPC), Colorado (LPC), Texas (LPC), Tennessee (LPC), Virginia (LPC) and Florida (telehealth only TPMC524). My educational background consists of a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Master of Science in Counseling from the University of Providence (formerly the University of Great Falls). I have a Master’s certificate in Addictions Counseling from Montana State, Bozeman. I am a practicing therapist with adolescents and adults using clinically tested and evidence-based interventions. I have a wide range of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I currently offer individual, family, and group sessions. My therapeutic approach is integrated and tailored to the best needs of the client. Offered are Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, EMDR, and Psychoeducation. The treatment modality emphasizes a sensory ladder program (certification has been currently obtained). I assist adults with learning the skills necessary to assist with day-to-day life in conjunction with mental health issues. My experience has been in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, addiction, and mental health clinics, and school (CSCT). My expertise is in working with children and adults with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Mood Dysregulation, Anxiety, Trauma and Abuse, Depression, Attention-Deficit, grief, and domestic and sexual abuse I have currently worked with adults and veterans experiencing addictions, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, couples issues, grief, life transitions, PTSD, CPSTD, domestic violence, sexual assault, and co-occurring disorders. There has been a high rate of success with my clients in achieving their goals. I look forward to meeting you! Lorraine Hellman-Robertson, MSC, LCPC, LPC

As a professional I have been working with Children and Families for the past 12 years. I'm very passionate about the work I do and have helped many. I have done everything from working in the schools to working at the local community services boards. I have worked in the roles as counselor and ask clinical supervisor. I love to empower and support those that already for their love growth journey.

Hello, I earned my master’s in social work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in MD, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC and Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) in VA. For more than 10 years, I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), humanistic, person-center, strength-focused therapy and other psychotherapy Intervention to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individual or family in diverse therapy environment. I am commented to assist people to live life to their fullest potential because we all have one life to live, and we deserve to be in peace with ourselves.