Photo of Dr. Tonjanika Jackson, CCDP-D, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tonjanika Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, CCDP-D, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thomson, GA 30824
I aim to implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among clients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. It is essential to keep in mind that therapy is not a magic pill or a quick fix: therapy is a healing process that necessitates participation and investment from the client and caretaker alike. But in the end, making small changes to self-defeating behavior and coping with feelings of sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
I aim to implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among clients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. It is essential to keep in mind that therapy is not a magic pill or a quick fix: therapy is a healing process that necessitates participation and investment from the client and caretaker alike. But in the end, making small changes to self-defeating behavior and coping with feelings of sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
(762) 209-3467 View (762) 209-3467

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Del Castillo, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Del Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
The focus is to acknowledge what is going on in your life while working towards change from a place of compassion.
There are many modalities for many people because we are all different. Each person & situation has a uniqueness and needs to be treated respectfully as such. I approach counseling, by way of collaboration, between the therapist (myself) & you (the client) in a safe space. It is you that is giving me permission to be on this journey with you.
The focus is to acknowledge what is going on in your life while working towards change from a place of compassion.
There are many modalities for many people because we are all different. Each person & situation has a uniqueness and needs to be treated respectfully as such. I approach counseling, by way of collaboration, between the therapist (myself) & you (the client) in a safe space. It is you that is giving me permission to be on this journey with you.
(678) 719-4458 View (678) 719-4458
Photo of Yvonne M King-Dixon, MAMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Yvonne M King-Dixon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loganville, GA 30052
Therapy is a judgement free zone where you can be free to express and explore yourself. Knowledge allows us to grow from within. You are the expert of YOU! I want to help you feel more content with who you are and be prepared to tackle all of the obstacles life has in store for you. I believe in the power of listening and understanding things from different points of view. I also believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist is vital to the success of healing and the overall treatment plan. I believe in open and continuous communication. I am a cheerleader, a mentor, a coach and an educator.
Therapy is a judgement free zone where you can be free to express and explore yourself. Knowledge allows us to grow from within. You are the expert of YOU! I want to help you feel more content with who you are and be prepared to tackle all of the obstacles life has in store for you. I believe in the power of listening and understanding things from different points of view. I also believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist is vital to the success of healing and the overall treatment plan. I believe in open and continuous communication. I am a cheerleader, a mentor, a coach and an educator.
(404) 476-5293 View (404) 476-5293
Photo of Belinda Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901  (Online Only)
My previous experiences have provided me an opportunity working with clients with a wide range of concerns and symptoms including anxiety, increased levels of stress and concern, relationship, parent-child conflict and depression. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations; all walks of life, ages and abilities. Utilizing therapy to better your life and continue to grow as a person is a major strength for anyone and I commend those who want to better their lives. Belinda's specialties include mood and anxiety disorders. To schedule, please visit: https://provider.growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=896&ref=prov
My previous experiences have provided me an opportunity working with clients with a wide range of concerns and symptoms including anxiety, increased levels of stress and concern, relationship, parent-child conflict and depression. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations; all walks of life, ages and abilities. Utilizing therapy to better your life and continue to grow as a person is a major strength for anyone and I commend those who want to better their lives. Belinda's specialties include mood and anxiety disorders. To schedule, please visit: https://provider.growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=896&ref=prov
(706) 954-6637 View (706) 954-6637
Photo of Candace Prescott - Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC, MSCMHC, MBA
Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC
MSCMHC, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
I work with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+ clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, sexual identity, parenting, shame, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues.
Walking into therapy is the first step to “Doing the Work”, healing and starting a new chapter isn’t easy, but it leads to a journey that is full of new choices and opportunities. My goal is to create a safe environment and allow clients to be free to express their issues and concerns without judgment. I am passionate about helping others draw from their strengths and natural pain if necessary to allow them to thrive. I want to help clients gain the skills and knowledge to create positive changes and walk in their purpose. I am devoted to helping clients find their balance by drawing from a variety of modalities.
I work with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+ clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, sexual identity, parenting, shame, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues.
Walking into therapy is the first step to “Doing the Work”, healing and starting a new chapter isn’t easy, but it leads to a journey that is full of new choices and opportunities. My goal is to create a safe environment and allow clients to be free to express their issues and concerns without judgment. I am passionate about helping others draw from their strengths and natural pain if necessary to allow them to thrive. I want to help clients gain the skills and knowledge to create positive changes and walk in their purpose. I am devoted to helping clients find their balance by drawing from a variety of modalities.
(678) 252-6603 View (678) 252-6603
Photo of Shanique Griffiths, LPC, CCTP, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanique Griffiths
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
All life's issues are therapy worthy and the ideal client is one that is ready for support and hard work towards truths, that allow you to grow through and change negative ideas, behaviors, beliefs, and limitations just as you desire that change to happen. Grow-N2B-Better is here to help you further develop the strengths that you own and want to use in your daily life, relationships, interactions, and connections.
All life's issues are therapy worthy and the ideal client is one that is ready for support and hard work towards truths, that allow you to grow through and change negative ideas, behaviors, beliefs, and limitations just as you desire that change to happen. Grow-N2B-Better is here to help you further develop the strengths that you own and want to use in your daily life, relationships, interactions, and connections.
(678) 338-8496 View (678) 338-8496
Photo of Courtney Whitehead, PsyD, Psychologist
Courtney Whitehead
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling less than satisfied with parts of your life, and uncertain of what to do next? It can be difficult to ask for help, so together, we strengthen coping skills, change perspectives, and work on finding reasonable solutions for the stressor in your life. At times, assessments tools will be utilized to clarify the plan of treatment. From the beginning and until our last meeting, I strive to offer a comfortable setting to discuss anything from job coaching, mood issues, relationship issues, grief, or substance use to past traumas.
Do you find yourself feeling less than satisfied with parts of your life, and uncertain of what to do next? It can be difficult to ask for help, so together, we strengthen coping skills, change perspectives, and work on finding reasonable solutions for the stressor in your life. At times, assessments tools will be utilized to clarify the plan of treatment. From the beginning and until our last meeting, I strive to offer a comfortable setting to discuss anything from job coaching, mood issues, relationship issues, grief, or substance use to past traumas.
(404) 724-8338 View (404) 724-8338
Photo of Dr. Tara M Tanksley Stallings, MAPC, MCCLC, BCMHC, DPC
Dr. Tara M Tanksley Stallings
MAPC, MCCLC, BCMHC, DPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
We offer a nontraditional therapeutic life coaching approach.
Destiny Life Management Group is a Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting Group. We have a staff of highly trained and certified experts in their fields, who offer a non-traditional approach for people who are perplexed in managing their life, because of; Anxiety, Depression, Trauma healing, Mental health, Coping skills, Stress, Spiritual, Relationships, Marriage and Grief and Loss issues. We are a Bridge of Peace, Privacy and Confidentiality from the Stigmas associated with traditional Mental Health and Spiritual Counseling Services. We also offer Business and Financial Consulting, Anger Management, Grief, Divorce Coaching and more
We offer a nontraditional therapeutic life coaching approach.
Destiny Life Management Group is a Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting Group. We have a staff of highly trained and certified experts in their fields, who offer a non-traditional approach for people who are perplexed in managing their life, because of; Anxiety, Depression, Trauma healing, Mental health, Coping skills, Stress, Spiritual, Relationships, Marriage and Grief and Loss issues. We are a Bridge of Peace, Privacy and Confidentiality from the Stigmas associated with traditional Mental Health and Spiritual Counseling Services. We also offer Business and Financial Consulting, Anger Management, Grief, Divorce Coaching and more
(706) 414-5537 View (706) 414-5537
Photo of Tamara B Hambrick - Dr. Tamara Hambrick, LCSW, PhD, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tamara Hambrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, DSW
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Psychotherapist located in the area of Atlanta, Georgia. I work with adults, individuals, and families using a solution-focused and eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. I have served in the mental health field for over 17 years. A highly dynamic, team-spirited, and evidence-based/ results-oriented professional seeking to combine outstanding academic and evidence-based training with excellent work experience, to make a significant contribution in a behavioral/mental health or social services environment. I am deeply committed to improving the quality of life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Psychotherapist located in the area of Atlanta, Georgia. I work with adults, individuals, and families using a solution-focused and eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. I have served in the mental health field for over 17 years. A highly dynamic, team-spirited, and evidence-based/ results-oriented professional seeking to combine outstanding academic and evidence-based training with excellent work experience, to make a significant contribution in a behavioral/mental health or social services environment. I am deeply committed to improving the quality of life.
(470) 280-7045 View (470) 280-7045
Photo of Dr. Courtney B Caldwell, LCSW, CJSOC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Courtney B Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CJSOC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31204
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in Prime for Life under 21 and 7 Challenges Substance Abuse programs and I am a Certified Juvenile Sex Offender Counselor.
Therapy helps work through your thoughts, emotions, perceptions, interactions and relationships in a safe supportive atmosphere. A good therapist will support and guide you to gain increased perspective and insight while also empowering you to self-assess and identify solutions/needed changes, not impress their beliefs on you. The active change agent in your journey to increased happiness and fulfillment is YOU; a good therapist just guides the way. I am happy to help whether you are adjusting to change and transition, wanting to improve or change relationships, or hoping to learn better ways to manage/cope with stress/emotions.
I am certified in Prime for Life under 21 and 7 Challenges Substance Abuse programs and I am a Certified Juvenile Sex Offender Counselor.
Therapy helps work through your thoughts, emotions, perceptions, interactions and relationships in a safe supportive atmosphere. A good therapist will support and guide you to gain increased perspective and insight while also empowering you to self-assess and identify solutions/needed changes, not impress their beliefs on you. The active change agent in your journey to increased happiness and fulfillment is YOU; a good therapist just guides the way. I am happy to help whether you are adjusting to change and transition, wanting to improve or change relationships, or hoping to learn better ways to manage/cope with stress/emotions.
(478) 292-2591 View (478) 292-2591
Photo of Heather W Prunty, MA, LPC, ACS, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather W Prunty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, MAC
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
No one said life was going to be easy. We go through challenging situations in life when you feel like the weight of the world is trying to overtake you. There's nothing wrong with seeking out additional support and assistance when these difficult times occur. Self-awareness is the key element one needs to possess in knowing when help is needed. Deciding to receive therapy shows that you are taking personal responsibility for your own well-being and thusly creating and gaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and your values.
No one said life was going to be easy. We go through challenging situations in life when you feel like the weight of the world is trying to overtake you. There's nothing wrong with seeking out additional support and assistance when these difficult times occur. Self-awareness is the key element one needs to possess in knowing when help is needed. Deciding to receive therapy shows that you are taking personal responsibility for your own well-being and thusly creating and gaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and your values.
(478) 787-4625 View (478) 787-4625
Photo of Ian James Mudge, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian James Mudge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Stone Mountain, GA 30087  (Online Only)
Regardless of where life has brought you, I believe that it can get better.
Every counselor, if they are honest, is seeking a client who is intelligent, funny, motivated, and has strong interpersonal skills. I am happy to work with those people, but I specialize in the more difficult cases. I like working with people who have had bad counseling experiences in the past. Those who know that they need change, but are unsure how to go about making those changes. Counseling is a collaborative relationship. My goal is not to fix your life, but to come along side you and help you move forward one step at a time.
Regardless of where life has brought you, I believe that it can get better.
Every counselor, if they are honest, is seeking a client who is intelligent, funny, motivated, and has strong interpersonal skills. I am happy to work with those people, but I specialize in the more difficult cases. I like working with people who have had bad counseling experiences in the past. Those who know that they need change, but are unsure how to go about making those changes. Counseling is a collaborative relationship. My goal is not to fix your life, but to come along side you and help you move forward one step at a time.
(469) 369-1538 View (469) 369-1538
Photo of Lawanda Harmon, PhD, MS, Pst-Doc
Lawanda Harmon
PhD, MS, Pst-Doc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loganville, GA 30052
Her chief mission is to assist others in re-examining their life perspectives, to learn from past experiences, and choose a healthy and holistic way to living.
Dr. Lawanda Harmon has been actively working in the field of mental health since 2010. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling obtained from Walden University, she began working at Community Friendship Inc. as an individual and group therapist. Lawanda continued to pursue her education at the doctoral level, obtaining a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Walden University. During her practicum and internship field experiences, she gained extensive training in Cognitive and Behavioral techniques as well as in Emotional, Personality, and Trauma focused interventions at Atlanta Center for Family Wellness in Atlanta, Georgia.
Her chief mission is to assist others in re-examining their life perspectives, to learn from past experiences, and choose a healthy and holistic way to living.
Dr. Lawanda Harmon has been actively working in the field of mental health since 2010. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling obtained from Walden University, she began working at Community Friendship Inc. as an individual and group therapist. Lawanda continued to pursue her education at the doctoral level, obtaining a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Walden University. During her practicum and internship field experiences, she gained extensive training in Cognitive and Behavioral techniques as well as in Emotional, Personality, and Trauma focused interventions at Atlanta Center for Family Wellness in Atlanta, Georgia.
(770) 282-8731 x1 View (770) 282-8731 x1
Photo of Lisa Ibekwe - The Comfy Place, MSW, LCSW, CAMSII, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Comfy Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMSII, LICSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31210
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new & sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. We are a group of therapists dedicated to helping kids, teens, adults, couples, & families heal. We understand that life has many ups & downs so we aim to create a safe space where people can have FUN, get REAL, and HEAL. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life.
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new & sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. We are a group of therapists dedicated to helping kids, teens, adults, couples, & families heal. We understand that life has many ups & downs so we aim to create a safe space where people can have FUN, get REAL, and HEAL. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life.
(678) 931-9473 View (678) 931-9473
Photo of Dr. Warrick T. Stewart, EdD, CRC, LPC, LPCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Warrick T. Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, CRC, LPC, LPCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Counseling is an investment of your time, your resources, and your inner willingness to change those areas of your life that has caused the greatest discomfort.
Are you worried that most counselors will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist and life coach who could help others like me. Whether you are looking for short-term solutions or more in-depth counseling, we will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
Counseling is an investment of your time, your resources, and your inner willingness to change those areas of your life that has caused the greatest discomfort.
Are you worried that most counselors will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist and life coach who could help others like me. Whether you are looking for short-term solutions or more in-depth counseling, we will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
(404) 941-1899 View (404) 941-1899
Photo of Keila L Stephens, LAPC, CADC-II, Counselor
Keila L Stephens
Counselor, LAPC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bogart, GA 30622  (Online Only)
I take a realistic approach to help you through life difficulties and explore ways to help you make positive and necessary changes.
Are you having difficulties in life, struggling with a mental health disorder or an addiction, or just looking for employment/career advice? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgmental, empathetic and safe counseling experience? If so, I am the therapist for you. I am a Certified Addictions and an Associate Professional Counselor who has experience helping children and adults. I have served over 20 years in the helping profession assisting individuals with disabilities.
I take a realistic approach to help you through life difficulties and explore ways to help you make positive and necessary changes.
Are you having difficulties in life, struggling with a mental health disorder or an addiction, or just looking for employment/career advice? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgmental, empathetic and safe counseling experience? If so, I am the therapist for you. I am a Certified Addictions and an Associate Professional Counselor who has experience helping children and adults. I have served over 20 years in the helping profession assisting individuals with disabilities.
(678) 679-1077 View (678) 679-1077
Photo of Danny Boylan, MS, NCC, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danny Boylan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606  (Online Only)
With all my clients, I start by trying to create a completely safe, private, confidential, accepting, non-judgmental, valuing, understanding, and empowering relationship. I believe that these components alone can often be enough to bring the changes you seek to make in your life. Whatever you are struggling with, I strive to meet you where you are, understand your experience, and help you achieve your goals for change. My clients are frequently experiencing depression, anxiety, or relationship difficulties, and it is my goal to work with them to uncover and heal the underlying driving factors of those symptoms.
With all my clients, I start by trying to create a completely safe, private, confidential, accepting, non-judgmental, valuing, understanding, and empowering relationship. I believe that these components alone can often be enough to bring the changes you seek to make in your life. Whatever you are struggling with, I strive to meet you where you are, understand your experience, and help you achieve your goals for change. My clients are frequently experiencing depression, anxiety, or relationship difficulties, and it is my goal to work with them to uncover and heal the underlying driving factors of those symptoms.
(762) 234-5271 View (762) 234-5271
Photo of Tracey K Wyatt, MA, LPC, Counselor
Tracey K Wyatt
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults and helping clients learn how to apply coping skills in day to day life, recognize how past events impact their present emotions, and improve their ability to have successful relationships. Whether this is adjusting to new roles in life, coping with overwhelming anxiety or enduring the stifling impact of traumatic experiences, there is all the aptitude needed to deal with these problems within the client. I can assist the client in developing and strengthening the skills needed to effectively manage their lives.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults and helping clients learn how to apply coping skills in day to day life, recognize how past events impact their present emotions, and improve their ability to have successful relationships. Whether this is adjusting to new roles in life, coping with overwhelming anxiety or enduring the stifling impact of traumatic experiences, there is all the aptitude needed to deal with these problems within the client. I can assist the client in developing and strengthening the skills needed to effectively manage their lives.
(855) 810-9008 View (855) 810-9008
Photo of Yisela Avila Barragan, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yisela Avila Barragan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Covington, GA 30016  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with boundaries, feeling left out, anxiety, depression, and trauma? If these challenges impact your relationships or complicate your life, I want you to know I am here to help. By being open to working through these struggles and searching for answers, we can build insight and succeed. From my experience, anyone who sets goals of bettering their mental health and consistently works towards those goals, can and will become successful.
Do you struggle with boundaries, feeling left out, anxiety, depression, and trauma? If these challenges impact your relationships or complicate your life, I want you to know I am here to help. By being open to working through these struggles and searching for answers, we can build insight and succeed. From my experience, anyone who sets goals of bettering their mental health and consistently works towards those goals, can and will become successful.
(404) 637-1397 View (404) 637-1397
Photo of Tiffany Smith, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lilburn, GA 30047  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When home and family are unbalanced it can cause problems in your personal life, take a toll at work, preoccupy your thoughts and make life difficult. Through individual counseling you can enhance the overall quality of life for you and your loved ones. I use professional tools and therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solution Focused Brief Therapy based on your needs assessment during our initial appointment.
When home and family are unbalanced it can cause problems in your personal life, take a toll at work, preoccupy your thoughts and make life difficult. Through individual counseling you can enhance the overall quality of life for you and your loved ones. I use professional tools and therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solution Focused Brief Therapy based on your needs assessment during our initial appointment.
(678) 882-1009 View (678) 882-1009

See more therapy options for Mcduffie County

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.