Book 100+ of the best Golden Rule therapists in Virginia

Hi! I'm Megan Cole, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in North Carolina. I received a master's degree in social work from UNC Chapel Hill in 2008, and obtained my clinical license in 2021. With many years of experience in healthcare, specifically hospice and serious illness care, I specialize in working with those who are coping with serious or life-limiting illnesses, individuals coping with caregiver stress and anxiety, anticipatory grief, and grief counseling after a loss. I also have extensive experience in the arenas of adoption, infertility, miscarriage, and pregnancy loss.

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.

Hello, I'm Alexis. As a dedicated therapist specializing in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, women, and young adults dealing with challenges like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I bring expertise in perinatal mental health and serve as a doula/birthworker as well. My approach integrates various therapeutic techniques, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their struggles, fostering positive growth and well-being during pivotal life transitions, including the perinatal period.

I am a licensed professional counselor with over 14 years of experience providing mental health services to youth and adults. I have a passion for promoting and making mental health services accessible to all. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, and stress management. I often utilize a solution focused approach, however, sessions are tailored to the individualized needs of each client.

I am Kara Stewart, a licensed professional counselor that has served in the mental health field for over 18 years. Through my years of practice, I have learned that approaching therapy from a client-centered, individualized, and creative approach provides the best outcome in therapy. It is my personal goal to help others find their strengths, path to wellness, and skills to utilize their challenges, life story, victories, and perceived failures to enhance their life and relationships with others.

Hi! Welcome! I'm Carolyn! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in both Oklahoma and Virginia. I received my Masters from Arizona State University and have been practicing for 5 years. Prior to becoming a therapist, I was an educator for over 30 years. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or 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. Therapy 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 helping all people struggling with career stress, trauma and burnout. I want everyone to become the best versions of themselves.

Hello, I'm Adrienne. Are you struggling with sadness, low motivation and anxiousness? Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and feel unable to fit it all in? I empower high performers to overcome the burden of anxiety, low motivation and burnout. I use a mix of evidence-based therapy models to get to the root of your struggles. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back in balance. Whether you are dealing with overwhelm or the cycles of anxiety and depression. I am here to help. Seeking therapy can be scary but you are making the right choice. You deserve a safe place to heal and grow. In our sessions, I'll meet you with compassion and create a space free from judgment so you can overcome the hangups and habits that are holding you back. Let's work together!

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Pennsylvania and Virginia. I completed a B.A. in Psychology at Temple University before attending PennWest Edinboro where I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, I completed an M.A. in Counseling at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I have spent the last 10 years specializing in parent-child attachment and relationship building. I was a Clinical Supervisor and am a Certified COSN Therapist & Certified COSN Parent Educator with the Ainsworth Attachment Clinic and Circle of Security Network. I am also a Registered COSP Facilitator with Circle of Security International. In 2024, I obtained my PMH-C certification to treat Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I work primarily with women who are struggling on their perinatal journey. I also work with a wider variety of women's issues as well that may be unrelated to the perinatal period such as transitions, relationship issues, career/work concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem concerns, and people pleasing. I also have extensive experience working with individuals who have been in or have had children in the foster care system and the world of adoption. ​

Nice to meet you! I am Krystle Landes, a Licensed Professional Counselor supporting clients in the state of Texas and Virginia. I strive to provide a safe and secure space to allow you to process through growth, ruptures and work towards your identified transformation. The therapy journey is unique to you and even though I ground my work in theory, I recognize that there is no cookie cutter approach to facilitating change and understanding. I tailor my approach to your strengths and areas of growth in the context of your unique circumstances and goals. We are in this together and I am honored to walk alongside your journey.

Hello! I’m Veronica, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a heart for helping you navigate life’s hurdles. With a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Turabo University of Puerto Rico, I’ve dedicated 10 years to fostering resilience and growth in individuals 18 and older facing anxiety, stress, substance use, and more. I offer a safe and non-judgemental space where you can freely express yourself and discover personal solutions. My practice is inclusive, welcoming clients from all backgrounds and sexual orientations. As a bilingual therapist, I provide therapy in both Spanish and English, ensuring you feel heard in the language of your comfort.

I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 10 years experience. I help mothers and new parents with managing the transitions, demands, and challenges of pregnancy and parenthood in order to show up in the best way for themselves and their loved ones. I also assist clients with understanding and processing stress related to cultural bias and racial trauma and incorporate practices that promote healing and empowerment.

I am a graduate of both Saint Leo University and Regent University. I hold a B.A. in Psychology and a M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy. I use a structural, solution-focused, and CBT approach when working with clients coupled with a calm spirit that helps clients feel accepted. I enjoy helping clients discover their strengths while highlighting how their thoughts and feelings contribute to their daily living and functioning. I am passionate about marriage, at-risk youth, and military communities. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, adolescents and adults. I believe relational intelligence is the key that unlocks our greatest potential. Therapy can be a huge step, therefore I find it important to build a relationship with you as my client by getting to know you and your experiences while empowering you to identify the change you would like to make. When I am is not helping clients, I serve as an Active Duty Sailor and full-time mom. I enjoy reading and exercising with my family. I am grounded in mindfulness and can implement meditation and spirituality into practice if preferred. I also provides pre-martial and life coaching services.

I am dually licensed in both Virginia (LPC) and North Carolina (LCMHC). I received my Masters Degree from Regent University in VA. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, mood and adjustment disorders, divorce, marital, family or relationship problems, assertiveness issues, career adjustment and/or indecision. I help clients discover their potential and learn skills and strategies to achieve their goals through empowering and providing a safe space for personal growth and healing.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Southwest Virginia. I received my master's degree from Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, KY. I have been practicing individual therapy for eight years, working with adults who suffer from a variety of behavioral health concerns, including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, and Grief. In my practice, it is my goal to create a safe, supportive, and trusting environment to encourage positive change in the lives of those I serve.

Greetings! When life gets to be overwhelming, more than you can handle, or maybe just at a point where you need some professional and unbiased guidance, I can help. My treatment approach is from an ecIectic lens. I am here to meet you where you are. No two people are exactly the same, and as such, they should not be treated with the same approach and techniques. I believe that being a competent, and ethical clinician, with great listening skills is paramount to providing optimal care. I use evidence based methods for connecting the mind, body, and soul. I provide therapy to adult individuals, couples, families, and groups. My primary treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. I help clients navigate the challenges of life, heal, and reach their treatment goals.

Hi! I'm Kate and I am Licensed Professional Counselor ( LPC) based in Virginia. I received my ungraduate at Penn State University with a B.S. in Rehabilitation and Human services, followed by my Masters in Rehabilitation and mental health counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been practicing individual and group therapy for 5 years, and have been involved in the mental health field in multiple different areas of work for the past 10 years. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression , substance use and addiction, behavioral disorders, PTSD, Women's issues, grief, and life transitions. I also enjoy helping adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders as well as life transitions to help be the best version of themselves in the phase of life they are currently going through individual therapy or group therapy. ** I do not process disability paperwork, attend court proceedings, provide service/emotional support animal letters or accommodation recommendations for school or work.

As a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, my hope is to engage in a collaborative therapeutic alliance with each individual & couple: fostering self-efficacy, developing new coping skills, focusing on strengths, and finding solutions that support your journey for self-discovery and overall healing. Using a framework of Person-Centered Therapy with techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions-focused Therapy & Mindfulness-based Techniques, will help you learn to manage reactions to challenges as you integrate new perspectives into your life.

"There can be no transforming of darkness into light ... without emotion." -Jung Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the core of my training. It embraces the belief systems of the past that affect your present. It's a state-of-mind that defines thinking that affects emotional awareness. To become aware is not to change, but to understand and accept. Carrying guilt or shame of the past, triggers the conflict of now. I don't offer advice - I offer choices - a chance to choose your own method of healing that fits you - not something others feel 'should' be. Come. Sit. Talk. Let's wander your path together. Licensed in Ohio, South Carolina, Washington DC, Arizona, Virginia, and Florida

Hi. My name is Reba James. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters for Virginia Commonwealth University and have been practicing for 6+ years. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and build resilience. I will work collaboratively with you to help you discover your strengths, improve your dimensions of wellness, and achieve your goals.

Hi! My name is Auria and I am an LCSW licensed in NC, PA, VA, and SC (telehealth only). I have been in the field of social work for over 15+ years. I currently work in a hospital and jail setting. The hospital setting requires to me address discharge needs. In the jail setting, I am addressing immediate crises such as suicidal/homicidal ideation/psychosis, etc. Both of these roles require me to provide support to patients and their families (where appropriate). In my free time, I spend time with my family and friends.

With over 14 years of experience in the field of mental health and school counseling, I have been fortunate to gain a wealth of knowledge working with individuals 5 to 65! Utilizing my education gained from VSU, VCU and Walden University, I pride myself in the ability to use a variety of treatment modalities, shining a unique perspective within the field! Life is a journey you don't have to endure alone. Support is always available!

As a mental health therapist I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, crisis, mental health and addiction counseling working as a TDT (Therapeutic Day Treatment) Clinician, Program Manager, and Clinician within the county’s mental health and substance abuse treatment system. Wister enjoys utilizing his training in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing) via Eclectic Counselling techniques to produce a structure towards daily wellness

I am very eager to meet with you and begin the work of enriching your life through the empowerment of your choices and mastery of your world. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.

I am Michelle Gorden, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia, as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With an extensive 20-year background in the field, I possess a wealth of experience and expertise. My primary focus lies in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), areas in which I specialize. With a laid-back demeanor, I strive to establish a safe and comfortable atmosphere for my clients. I embrace an eclectic approach to therapy, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate in meeting the unique needs of each individual. I employ evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to address a variety of mental health conditions, including but not limited to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship and communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, self-esteem and self-worth, and stress management.

Many of my clients have been there… trying to find the right therapist and questioning if they can be brave enough to make the first appointment . Maybe you are trying to find the right fit, maybe you are questioning if it is worth it. To those struggling with the multitudes of issues life can throw at all of us-I am here for you! Together we will uncover your power and courage to know that you can do difficult things. I help motivate my clients to keep going despite the challenges.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is patient, attentive, and empathic to my clients. I have over 10 years of experience working within the senior and adult mental health community. I foster a therapeutic environment where adults, seniors, and caregivers feel understood, valued, and supported in their unique life circumstances. I have a Master's of Social Work from the University of South Carolina.

Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I attended undergrad and graduate school at Radford University, located in Radford, Virginia! I work full-time for the VA Healthcare System where I provide mental health counseling and group services to our Veterans. I strive to assist each of my clients to the best of my ability and offer my expertise surrounding numerous mental health disorder and life struggles. I hope to work closely with you as a provider that is open, accepting, and willing to work through the struggles that life can throw our way. I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders, grief/loss, and trauma. I know that reaching out for additional mental health support can be both stressful and scary, but working with someone who is understanding, patient, and willing makes all the difference!

Hello! I am Miscaline Presume and Ever since I was young l I knew I wanted to get into a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. As a wife and mom of 2 we all can agree that life is difficult and all we at times need a reminder of what is most important. I seek to empower and support all who are ready to take the journey of self-discovery. We will work together to gain the skills and tools to find yourself again and take charge of your own happiness and well-being. I am here to help you through it all as you rediscover one of the most important people in your life, YOU! I Have always been that person who loved to see happy endings. I understand life brings pain, sadness, joy, and everything in between, but I am determined to help you say goodbye to the habits and things not working for you and say hello to joy, peace, and love. I am a strong believer in freeing oneself from the pain and sorrow of life. I guess you can say Happiness is my kryptonite. I look forward to introducing you to your new beginning.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I specialize in helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through evidence-based techniques, I work with clients to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal is to create a supportive and collaborative environment where you can gain insight, build resilience, and achieve your personal goals. Whether you're seeking to manage stress, overcome addiction, anxiety or depression, or improve your overall well-being, I am here to support you on your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. I work with adults 18+. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, trauma, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I work a great deal with first responders, couples, and those who struggle with intrusive uncomfortable thoughts. I am honored to be here to support you in the healing process.

Hey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker stationed in Florida, where I call home. I achieved my Master’s degree from Florida Atlantic University. I assist my clients with expressing their authentic self, while tackling barriers that ultimately allow for adaptation and growth. One of my main objectives is to make my clients feel heard, safe, and comfortable. Without these, we cannot begin to embark on our adventure!

Sonya is a licensed professional counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist whose work is informed by humanistic, person-centered, and strengths-based approaches. She strives to create an open and safe space for clients to be their authentic self, explore emotions, expressions and relationships, and find ways to continue growing within the therapeutic relationship. Sonya’s theoretical framework values the following core principles: communication, and relationships; supporting tension release and vitality; and the importance of meeting clients where they are physically, emotionally, and developmentally within a trusting environment. Sonya focuses on solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches, but employs additional options as needed, depending on each client's personal journey towards healing.

As a licensed clinical social worker and certified substance abuse counselor, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating substance use and mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma. With over 10 years of experience in the field—and lived experience with addiction in my own family—I bring not only clinical knowledge but deep empathy and understanding to the work I do. I’m passionate about helping people break free from painful cycles, reconnect with their strengths, and move forward with greater clarity and self-compassion. Whether you're just starting to explore change or returning to this work after setbacks, I offer a supportive, judgment-free space to help you heal and grow at your own pace.

Welcome! I’m Christien Harden. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can work through life’s challenges at your own pace. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or identity-related concerns, my goal is to help you find clarity, healing, and balance in a way that feels right for you.

I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience providing inpatient and outpatient counseling and crisis intervention for experiencing substance abuse and mental health issues. I specialize in working with adults from late teens to older men and women experiencing substance use disorders, depression, trauma, grief, and improvement of mindfulness. I have a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves. I also have a sense of humor and find it helpful in the therapeutic process. I am known for building a good rapport with clients and I look forward to gaining your trust as you work through your issues. Typical treatment modalities in my work with clients include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and Client-centered (deep listening and non-directive) approaches. Appointments are typically held weekly and you will be able to see my availability on the posted schedule. Don't hesitate to reach out to me about scheduling or any other questions, as they come up. Again, I'm so glad you have taken this first step. I believe, with support and guidance, you can make great progress. I look forward to accompanying you on this journey!

My name is Bethany Gravely. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2018. I continue to feel the same passion for my job now as I did when I first started. I am so proud of you for taking the first step to talk about your mental health. Choosing the right therapist can be a rewarding experience, but also scary. It is my job to help you navigate the stressors of life and explore different ways for you to cope with them. We all experience stress on some level so your feelings are valid and worth discussing with someone who truly cares! My style of counseling allows for you to be in charge of your therapy. If you want helpful reading material, evidenced based practices, solutions or just a listening ear, my goal is to help you with where you are today. You are not a burden. You are not undeserving. You are not broken, or a mess to be cleaned up. You are so endlessly enough. When I’m not working, I am spending time with my husband, our two little ones, our 3 dogs, and our cat. We just recently bought a 40 acre farm and spend our free time making it our forever home! We are hopeful to bring in larger farm animals in the upcoming years and learn to homestead!

I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage & Family Therapist with open-minded values, bringing over 20 years of experience in child psychology and family counseling. My services include counseling for couples, parent-child relationships, sex therapy, drug education, conflict resolution, anger management, divorce mediation, and family reunification. I also offer consultations and house calls. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hofstra University and a second Master's in Military Psychology from Adler University. I am certified in Alcohol and Substance Abuse (CASAC), Sex Therapy, and Divorce Mediation in both NY and VA.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia. I work full-time at a residential substance use facility and part-time providing therapy online for individuals with mental health or co-occurring diagnoses. I believe individuals are the experts in their lives and have the strengths and abilities within them to bring to therapy to be successful in improving their quality of life.

Hello, I'm Regent. Do you feel overwhelmed by your current relationships, circumstances, and environment? I work with adolescents and adults struggling with anxieties and depression symptoms utilizing a person-centered approach to create coping strategies and communication skills. I offer a confidential space to vent and work on day-to-day issues that are continually changing and transforming. I will assist with coaching you on finding mindfulness and feeling confident in your mind and spirit. In all of our sessions together, I will provide a judgement-free zone so that you can be comfortable to speak freely and process any concerns, issues, or traumas. Let’s come together and create a plan centered on your needs and help reduce your stress!

Hey! I hold a license as a Clinical Social Worker in both North Carolina and Virginia, with my current practice centered in the Fayetteville area. My journey spans over 3 years as a Social Worker and extends to more than 7 years in the broader Social Services realm. Columbia University is where I earned my Masters. My passion lies in assisting adults and youth navigating challenges related to mental health, personal struggles, and emotional well-being.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience and a Master's degree from NC State University, I've dedicated my career to helping people break free from what's holding them back and rediscover their path to growth and fulfillment. Through our work together, you'll develop practical strategies and insights that will help you move beyond feeling stuck and start building the life you envision for yourself.

My motto is “people do the best they can with the resources they have at that time.” I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to assist clients maximize their internal resources to live a healthy and fulfilling life. I strive to empower others face obstacles, life transitions, addiction, sexual dysfunction, eating disorders, and the myriad of other life challenges.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and discover their inner strengths. I help facilitate mind and body realignment for the achievement of optimal performance in school, at work, and in personal lives. I'm here to help harness inner resources. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide therapy that is rooted in person-centered principles, mindfulness techniques, and faith-based practices. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, empowering them to cultivate meaningful growth and healing.

I am an LCSW based out of Virginia. I have worked with various populations to include teenagers ranging from severe mental illness to future growth and planning; adults with severe mental illness, couples, mild-severe depression and anxiety, family issues, and motivational struggles. I am solution focused and my goal it to help you get where you want to be!

I hold a Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work. I have over 15 years of experience service individuals, adolescence, and families. I have experience working in private practice as well as the public sector. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and parenting. I strive to assist my clients to embrace change, accept, and heal. I utilize a wholistic approach when treating the clients tha I serve.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia and have been providing therapy support since 2014. I help people recognize their strengths to improve their mental wellbeing and find solutions to life’s challenges. I also work with adults with a history of childhood trauma or have had traumatic experiences-to find a way towards peace and resilience for the future.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia and also licensed in North Carolina. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California in 2012. I have been independently licensed for ten years. I help my clients pursue the lives that they want to build by: 1) Helping them to identify areas that need change. 2) Guiding them through the acquisition of skills and development of strategies to effectively make that change 3) Supporting them as they work to implement the skills and strategies to achieve their goals.

Hi there! Do you find yourself feeling "lost" by the various struggles of your life? Do you find yourself questioning your purpose? Let me help you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in the community mental health arena. I have worked with a variety of concerns i.e. crisis management, depression/anxiety, grief/loss, relational issues and stress management. Often times, we can lose sight of what we need when we are pushing through our own emotional fog. I can help you navigate these experiences in real-time with solutions suited to your desired outcomes.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Virginia. I obtained a Master's Degree from Virginia State University and have been practicing for the past 19 years. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and I am here to provide a safe and supportive space for my client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I am committed to helping my clients build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful and fulfilling lives. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to become their best selves and live authentically.

My name is Willard and I am a licensed counselor in several states. My practice primarily focuses on helping others deal with ambiguity. Often our thoughts and subsequently what we teach ourselves becomes rigid and fairly black and white. Using a pragmatic and authentic approach to therapy I help others to be okay with things that are beyond their control and work with them to establish themselves as the protagonist in their own story. This is primarily accomplished through conversation and allowing you the client to guide the therapy in the direction it needs to go.