Life Coaching Therapists in Valencia, CA

Photo of Penny Randall - Circle One Hypnotherapy & Shamanic Healing, CHT, Rev
Circle One Hypnotherapy & Shamanic Healing
CHT, Rev
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Energy follows thought. What are your thoughts? Do you have self-defeating negative mental chatter? Do you have habits, fears, perceptions, beliefs, attitudes, which hinder you from being "all you can be"? As a hypnotherapist I use hypnosis as part of a multidisciplinary approach to help my clients rewrite the stories in their sub-conscious mind. I also employ my 30 plus years as a Shamanic Healer to assist my clients in being all they were created to be. Reiki and Chakra balancing are also employed when appropriate. Powerful assistance comes with Past Life Regression and Soul Retrieval.
Energy follows thought. What are your thoughts? Do you have self-defeating negative mental chatter? Do you have habits, fears, perceptions, beliefs, attitudes, which hinder you from being "all you can be"? As a hypnotherapist I use hypnosis as part of a multidisciplinary approach to help my clients rewrite the stories in their sub-conscious mind. I also employ my 30 plus years as a Shamanic Healer to assist my clients in being all they were created to be. Reiki and Chakra balancing are also employed when appropriate. Powerful assistance comes with Past Life Regression and Soul Retrieval.
(818) 532-5436 View (818) 532-5436
Photo of Michael Paul Wikler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Paul Wikler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Take that courageous step toward a happier life today.
Embarking on the journey to find a therapist can feel overwhelming, but I'm here to simplify the process for you. Specializing in both Brief and Long-term therapy, I navigate the complexities of Relationship challenges, Depression, Anxiety, and uniquely focus on Reunification therapy. With a wealth of experience, I guide individuals and families through the intricate process of rebuilding connections. My approach is marked by empathy, positivity, and a non-judgmental stance, providing a safe space for solace whether you're grappling with longstanding issues or facing an immediate crisis.
Take that courageous step toward a happier life today.
Embarking on the journey to find a therapist can feel overwhelming, but I'm here to simplify the process for you. Specializing in both Brief and Long-term therapy, I navigate the complexities of Relationship challenges, Depression, Anxiety, and uniquely focus on Reunification therapy. With a wealth of experience, I guide individuals and families through the intricate process of rebuilding connections. My approach is marked by empathy, positivity, and a non-judgmental stance, providing a safe space for solace whether you're grappling with longstanding issues or facing an immediate crisis.
(661) 425-9013 View (661) 425-9013
Photo of Robert Aguilar - Empowering Minds Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Aguilar - Empowering Minds Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
I get that life is messy! That’s why I do what I do.
Many of us, including myself, can find it difficult to identify the cause of generally feeling discomfort and uneasiness. We might wake up feeling stuck, worthless, hopeless, lacking energy or simply have no sense of self. It is the heavy feeling in the chest or gut, an overwhelming feeling of not being who or what we thought we would be in life. That feeling of malaise does not respect if you are male, female, non-binary or if you are 16 or 65 years of age. Any of us can and will suffer from anxiety and / or depression at some point in our lives. I have helped individuals with wide ranging mental health challenges, such as
I get that life is messy! That’s why I do what I do.
Many of us, including myself, can find it difficult to identify the cause of generally feeling discomfort and uneasiness. We might wake up feeling stuck, worthless, hopeless, lacking energy or simply have no sense of self. It is the heavy feeling in the chest or gut, an overwhelming feeling of not being who or what we thought we would be in life. That feeling of malaise does not respect if you are male, female, non-binary or if you are 16 or 65 years of age. Any of us can and will suffer from anxiety and / or depression at some point in our lives. I have helped individuals with wide ranging mental health challenges, such as
(661) 760-7658 View (661) 760-7658
Photo of Gwen Staples, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gwen Staples
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Asking for help is a big step and with the proper support and guidance you can be happy and enjoy life regardless of the painful life experiences that you have encountered.
If you are feeling stuck due to a traumatic past that you are struggling to deal with and you need an empathetic, knowledgeable, experienced professional to help you navigate through the broken and dysregulated pieces then email me today. Trauma can show up in so many different ways from depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, dysfunctional relationships, and so much more. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional it is my goal to not only assist you in the process of healing but to help you establish coping skills to manage distress and maintain appropriate self-care so that you can obtain peace and emotional well being.
Asking for help is a big step and with the proper support and guidance you can be happy and enjoy life regardless of the painful life experiences that you have encountered.
If you are feeling stuck due to a traumatic past that you are struggling to deal with and you need an empathetic, knowledgeable, experienced professional to help you navigate through the broken and dysregulated pieces then email me today. Trauma can show up in so many different ways from depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, dysfunctional relationships, and so much more. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional it is my goal to not only assist you in the process of healing but to help you establish coping skills to manage distress and maintain appropriate self-care so that you can obtain peace and emotional well being.
(424) 332-1658 View (424) 332-1658
Photo of Dr. Elani Tuchman, MFT, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elani Tuchman
Psychologist, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Whether you're struggling with your mental health, figuring out your next chapter in life, or just needing some guidance and support, I look forward to the opportunity of working with you.
Working with others to achieve their full potential has always been a passion of mine. I enjoy collaborating with clients to help them overcome current stressors, and provide support to navigate how best to move forward in a constantly changing world.
Whether you're struggling with your mental health, figuring out your next chapter in life, or just needing some guidance and support, I look forward to the opportunity of working with you.
Working with others to achieve their full potential has always been a passion of mine. I enjoy collaborating with clients to help them overcome current stressors, and provide support to navigate how best to move forward in a constantly changing world.
(661) 426-8137 View (661) 426-8137
Photo of Shane E Bulkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shane E Bulkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Through my unique experience working with clients I have developed ability to assist them in realizing they can overcome any of life's difficulties.
I have experience working with all types of clients. The clients that find the greatest success are those that have a desire to change and are willing to put in the work. I love seeing the amazing healing power that can come when clients overcome difficulties. Meeting with clients on their first intake assessment and then sitting with them as they work and grow on their journey towards happiness in this life is why I came into this field.
Through my unique experience working with clients I have developed ability to assist them in realizing they can overcome any of life's difficulties.
I have experience working with all types of clients. The clients that find the greatest success are those that have a desire to change and are willing to put in the work. I love seeing the amazing healing power that can come when clients overcome difficulties. Meeting with clients on their first intake assessment and then sitting with them as they work and grow on their journey towards happiness in this life is why I came into this field.
(661) 591-4793 View (661) 591-4793
Photo of Antonio Buono - Behavioral Support Services, Inc., PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Behavioral Support Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Life challenges can motivate us to overcome obstacles and solve problems; but sometimes these challenges can slow us down and make us feel hopeless and helpless, worried, and unfulfilled. If you feel isolated and unable to function effectively in your daily life, allow me to work with you in finding the YOU within that can better manage emotional, behavioral and communication challenges. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, or low self-esteem, contact me for a consultation session. I look forward to being of service to you and join YOU in your journey.
Life challenges can motivate us to overcome obstacles and solve problems; but sometimes these challenges can slow us down and make us feel hopeless and helpless, worried, and unfulfilled. If you feel isolated and unable to function effectively in your daily life, allow me to work with you in finding the YOU within that can better manage emotional, behavioral and communication challenges. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, or low self-esteem, contact me for a consultation session. I look forward to being of service to you and join YOU in your journey.
(818) 423-5294 View (818) 423-5294
Photo of Zack Reed-Fier, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zack Reed-Fier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you a people-pleaser? Feeling anxious, fatigued, or unmotivated? Are you burned out from chronic pain / illness? Are you or your loved ones repeating patterns & wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life just feels more stressful than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help you change your life.
Are you a people-pleaser? Feeling anxious, fatigued, or unmotivated? Are you burned out from chronic pain / illness? Are you or your loved ones repeating patterns & wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life just feels more stressful than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help you change your life.
(707) 306-4768 View (707) 306-4768
Photo of Lori Montgomery, PsyD, Psychologist
Lori Montgomery
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91354  (Online Only)
If you are an individual or in a relationship and are looking for a confidential, professional atmosphere where you can sort out life's challenges, please email, text, or call me.
You are here looking to feel better. How can I help? My specialty is assisting women and couples with becoming the best version of themselves and developing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Whether you are re-connecting with yourself, recovering from pain in your past, struggling as a parent, having marital/partner issues, or need help navigating a problem that feels too big to tackle alone, I’m here. My approach is empathic, straightforward, and solution oriented. Call me for a free phone consultation about your needs. Together we can decide if I’m a good fit for you.
If you are an individual or in a relationship and are looking for a confidential, professional atmosphere where you can sort out life's challenges, please email, text, or call me.
You are here looking to feel better. How can I help? My specialty is assisting women and couples with becoming the best version of themselves and developing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Whether you are re-connecting with yourself, recovering from pain in your past, struggling as a parent, having marital/partner issues, or need help navigating a problem that feels too big to tackle alone, I’m here. My approach is empathic, straightforward, and solution oriented. Call me for a free phone consultation about your needs. Together we can decide if I’m a good fit for you.
(661) 464-1239 View (661) 464-1239
Photo of Charlotte Strong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlotte Strong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families of all ages and from all walks of life.
My approach to therapy is working with you to get you where you want to be. My goal is to provide help, hope and understanding in a warm and accepting environment. I am a talking therapist as much as I am a listening therapist. What that means is that I listen to the issues you bring; provide feedback and tools for change. I actively engage in conversation with you. A large part of our work is about filling your tool box with tools to create the change you want to see in your life.
I work with individuals, couples and families of all ages and from all walks of life.
My approach to therapy is working with you to get you where you want to be. My goal is to provide help, hope and understanding in a warm and accepting environment. I am a talking therapist as much as I am a listening therapist. What that means is that I listen to the issues you bring; provide feedback and tools for change. I actively engage in conversation with you. A large part of our work is about filling your tool box with tools to create the change you want to see in your life.
(661) 263-4900 View (661) 263-4900
Photo of Kathryn A Glickman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn A Glickman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
I look forward to walking the path with you, so that you can discover yourself and create the quality relationships and life you are longing to have.
You may feel lost right now, but you are actually on your path. Let me explain. I envision therapy as a step along your path. And you are walking along the path of a labyrinth. You begin walking along the path with the goal of reaching the center. Upon reaching the center, you discover yourself.
I look forward to walking the path with you, so that you can discover yourself and create the quality relationships and life you are longing to have.
You may feel lost right now, but you are actually on your path. Let me explain. I envision therapy as a step along your path. And you are walking along the path of a labyrinth. You begin walking along the path with the goal of reaching the center. Upon reaching the center, you discover yourself.
(661) 480-6993 View (661) 480-6993
Photo of Tanyika Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tanyika Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
No matter where you are in life, I would like to help you overcome the internal and external obstacles often associated with change.
If you have worked hard to figure things out alone, I will now work with you to offer guidance and feedback. Together we will address issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, Assertiveness Training, Grief and Loss, Career Challenges, Parenting Issues (First time parents, Parenting teens, Empty nest adjusting), Marriage and Family Support, Increasing Effective Communication, Addiction and Impulsive Behaviors. I accept Kaiser Permanente.
No matter where you are in life, I would like to help you overcome the internal and external obstacles often associated with change.
If you have worked hard to figure things out alone, I will now work with you to offer guidance and feedback. Together we will address issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, Assertiveness Training, Grief and Loss, Career Challenges, Parenting Issues (First time parents, Parenting teens, Empty nest adjusting), Marriage and Family Support, Increasing Effective Communication, Addiction and Impulsive Behaviors. I accept Kaiser Permanente.
(661) 215-2894 View (661) 215-2894
Photo of Julia Young - Caring Connected, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Caring Connected providers are trained in many therapeutic approaches, but they're all laser-focused on one thing: helping you change your life.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Caring Connected providers are trained in many therapeutic approaches, but they're all laser-focused on one thing: helping you change your life.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
(707) 317-6092 View (707) 317-6092
Photo of Megan Murphy Cross, MA, LPCC
Megan Murphy Cross
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you struggling to truly change? Are you tired of negative thoughts, painful memories, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, or decreased motivation? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. Even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.
Are you struggling to truly change? Are you tired of negative thoughts, painful memories, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, or decreased motivation? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. Even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.
(747) 322-4338 View (747) 322-4338
Photo of Jeffrey Lumaya, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Lumaya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Congratulations on taking the initial steps to address the painful or troubling issue in your life. I find it very important that you take the time to explore the right match for you when choosing a psychotherapist. Ask yourself: Will I be comfortable in sharing painful or personal issues with this therapist over time? Do the area(s) of expertise match with my needs? Will my values and worldviews be respected during the course treatment? I offer a free, no-obligation, initial consultation to discuss issues at hand, and to determine if we are a good fit for each other.
Congratulations on taking the initial steps to address the painful or troubling issue in your life. I find it very important that you take the time to explore the right match for you when choosing a psychotherapist. Ask yourself: Will I be comfortable in sharing painful or personal issues with this therapist over time? Do the area(s) of expertise match with my needs? Will my values and worldviews be respected during the course treatment? I offer a free, no-obligation, initial consultation to discuss issues at hand, and to determine if we are a good fit for each other.
(661) 247-0156 View (661) 247-0156
Photo of Ellen Bradley-Windell - Valencia Relationship Institute, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valencia Relationship Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Our goal at VRI as therapists is to be able to assist you in using your unique strengths and personal resources to respond to your various life challenges.
Is your child, adolescent or teenager depressed or acting out in ways that have you concerned? Are you worried about your child or teenager's behavior and emotional well being following a divorce? Are you a first responder family seeking culturally competent clinicians? Are you a person in the midst of life transitions and need some help moving forward? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, there is help. Valencia Relationship Institute (VRI) should be your first call for help. We have 17 therapists with specializations in all of these areas. Call right now and speak to our Client Care Coordinator. See you soon!
Our goal at VRI as therapists is to be able to assist you in using your unique strengths and personal resources to respond to your various life challenges.
Is your child, adolescent or teenager depressed or acting out in ways that have you concerned? Are you worried about your child or teenager's behavior and emotional well being following a divorce? Are you a first responder family seeking culturally competent clinicians? Are you a person in the midst of life transitions and need some help moving forward? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, there is help. Valencia Relationship Institute (VRI) should be your first call for help. We have 17 therapists with specializations in all of these areas. Call right now and speak to our Client Care Coordinator. See you soon!
(661) 426-8124 x205 View (661) 426-8124 x205
Photo of Stephen Haig - Stephen Haig LMFT, MS, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen Haig LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91381
I provide for you a safe, caring, and supportive environment whether working with an individual, couple or family. Your therapy will be non-judgmental and compassionate which will help you to establish the trust that is necessary to explore the painful experiences of your life.
I provide for you a safe, caring, and supportive environment whether working with an individual, couple or family. Your therapy will be non-judgmental and compassionate which will help you to establish the trust that is necessary to explore the painful experiences of your life.
(661) 877-6025 View (661) 877-6025
Photo of Sally Kuch, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sally Kuch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Because of my investment in personal therapy, which enabled me to uncover the layers of hurt, sadness, pain and disappointment in my life, I am available to help begin the healing process in yours.
The Healing Place is intended to help clients achieve their fullest potential in their relationship to self and others. I have been successful at helping people feel better and relate more effectively. I can help you discover your most authentic self by getting to the core issues and healing the underlying pain. I am especially skilled in helping families build healthy and rewarding relationships even in the midst of crisis and hopelessness. My dedication is to help you flourish in your life. In therapy, facing your "real" self can lead to a deeper understanding allowing you to become more whole.
Because of my investment in personal therapy, which enabled me to uncover the layers of hurt, sadness, pain and disappointment in my life, I am available to help begin the healing process in yours.
The Healing Place is intended to help clients achieve their fullest potential in their relationship to self and others. I have been successful at helping people feel better and relate more effectively. I can help you discover your most authentic self by getting to the core issues and healing the underlying pain. I am especially skilled in helping families build healthy and rewarding relationships even in the midst of crisis and hopelessness. My dedication is to help you flourish in your life. In therapy, facing your "real" self can lead to a deeper understanding allowing you to become more whole.
(661) 727-3981 View (661) 727-3981
Photo of Linda Raviv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Raviv
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Making the decision to call or consult a therapist is a difficult one but may be the best gift you can give yourself. It means you have taken an important step in changing your life. As a practicing psychotherapist I have treated adults, families, teens and children since 1981 and love to help people find their true sense of self and improve their functioning at work and in their relationships. Over the years I have helped many adults, children and teens with academic and behavioral issues, family conflicts, depression, anxiety and chronic pain relief.
Making the decision to call or consult a therapist is a difficult one but may be the best gift you can give yourself. It means you have taken an important step in changing your life. As a practicing psychotherapist I have treated adults, families, teens and children since 1981 and love to help people find their true sense of self and improve their functioning at work and in their relationships. Over the years I have helped many adults, children and teens with academic and behavioral issues, family conflicts, depression, anxiety and chronic pain relief.
(661) 412-9609 View (661) 412-9609
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
1
Life Coaching Therapists

What can I expect from life coaching?

Clients and coaches will typically start by identifying the problem area(s) that the client hopes to address—then, the coach will help the client brainstorm potential solutions and explore concrete techniques to help the client attain their goals. Coaching is typically short-term and focused on finding solutions in the here and now, rather than exploring a client’s past. In addition to strategies aimed at the client’s specific concerns, coaches may encourage general stress management techniques such as meditation.

Can a life coach help treat anxiety?

Because the majority of life coaches are not licensed clinicians, they are not qualified to diagnose or treat anxiety. Anyone struggling with anxiety or another mental health condition should seek help from a licensed mental health practitioner. However, some coaching clients who struggle with subclinical anxiety report that working with their coach on other problems—such as career dissatisfaction or unhealthy habits—has a positive effect on their anxiety.

Can life coaching be done online?

Yes. While life coaching often happens in person, many coaches conduct sessions over the phone or via online platforms such as Zoom or Skype. Because life coaches are not subject to local licensing regulations in the same way that therapists are, they are able to see clients who live in other locations.

How long does life coaching last?

Life coaching tends to be a shorter-term process than therapy, though it does not always unfold over a specific period of time and is instead based on the coach’s or the client’s preferences. Coaching often takes place over three to 12 months but may be shorter or longer if necessary.