Depression Therapists in Fort Madison, IA

Photo of Sara Scott, LMHC, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Sara Scott
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Madison, IA 52627  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with adults who are anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, grieving, or suffering from trauma, infertility, or PTSD.
I have been a professional counselor for 12 years. As a counselor I believe it is a privilege for me to be allowed into individual’s and couple’s lives on a deep and personal level. I believe you are the expert in your life and that together we will identify skills and techniques that will create a path to healing and growth that you are seeking.
I am passionate about working with adults who are anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, grieving, or suffering from trauma, infertility, or PTSD.
I have been a professional counselor for 12 years. As a counselor I believe it is a privilege for me to be allowed into individual’s and couple’s lives on a deep and personal level. I believe you are the expert in your life and that together we will identify skills and techniques that will create a path to healing and growth that you are seeking.
(319) 250-5658 View (319) 250-5658
Photo of Candi Francis, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candi Francis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Madison, IA 52627
I seek to help families that have experienced trauma, grief/loss, illness, anxiety, depression or attachment concerns.
Life can feel hard, you feel stuck, no matter what you do. Maybe your child is having a lot of big emotions, taking over. Having a difficult time expressing them to get needs met. Getting out the door to school or activities just does not seem to go as planned. Fears and worries are taking over, and your sweet child just isn't themselves. You want your motto to be "A happy, healthy family" and yet it feels like it just doesn't quite get there. Thoughts of "How do I help this little person, be the best them and our family be the best us?" Sweet parents/caregivers, you and your little one(s) are amazing and I am so glad you found me!
I seek to help families that have experienced trauma, grief/loss, illness, anxiety, depression or attachment concerns.
Life can feel hard, you feel stuck, no matter what you do. Maybe your child is having a lot of big emotions, taking over. Having a difficult time expressing them to get needs met. Getting out the door to school or activities just does not seem to go as planned. Fears and worries are taking over, and your sweet child just isn't themselves. You want your motto to be "A happy, healthy family" and yet it feels like it just doesn't quite get there. Thoughts of "How do I help this little person, be the best them and our family be the best us?" Sweet parents/caregivers, you and your little one(s) are amazing and I am so glad you found me!
(319) 302-3508 View (319) 302-3508
Photo of Abby A Womack, LMHC, Counselor
Abby A Womack
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Madison, IA 52627
Abby is a fully licensed mental health clinician in Iowa. She is certified in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and specializes in personality disorders, substance use/addictive behaviors, and Christian counseling. Abby also enjoys working with teens and using art-based interventions during in person sessions. Abby will see ages 12 and above both in person in Fort Madison or via telehealth!
Abby is a fully licensed mental health clinician in Iowa. She is certified in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and specializes in personality disorders, substance use/addictive behaviors, and Christian counseling. Abby also enjoys working with teens and using art-based interventions during in person sessions. Abby will see ages 12 and above both in person in Fort Madison or via telehealth!
(319) 432-0551 View (319) 432-0551
Photo of Mallori Vogelpohl, LMHC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mallori Vogelpohl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Fort Madison, IA 52627
I believe we all need the right support when it comes to making important changes in our lives, whether that’s improving health, changing careers or deciding to pursue healing from past trauma. My hope is to work with women who are ready and willing to consider what change would look like for them and then identify and execute the steps necessary to achieve it.
I believe we all need the right support when it comes to making important changes in our lives, whether that’s improving health, changing careers or deciding to pursue healing from past trauma. My hope is to work with women who are ready and willing to consider what change would look like for them and then identify and execute the steps necessary to achieve it.
(319) 614-6128 View (319) 614-6128

Online Therapists

Photo of Melissa Michelle Estes, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Michelle Estes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52803
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I've been a therapist for 28 years and have had many opportunities to witness courage and resiliency. Along with their struggles and concerns, clients bring many strengths including creativity, humor, kindness, forgiveness and compassion. Being a therapist has brought meaning and fulfillment to my life. I can't imagine doing anything else. I'm most experienced and interested in working with couples working to improve their relationships at any stage of life and with individuals concerned with anxiety, life transitions, or depression.
Hello! I've been a therapist for 28 years and have had many opportunities to witness courage and resiliency. Along with their struggles and concerns, clients bring many strengths including creativity, humor, kindness, forgiveness and compassion. Being a therapist has brought meaning and fulfillment to my life. I can't imagine doing anything else. I'm most experienced and interested in working with couples working to improve their relationships at any stage of life and with individuals concerned with anxiety, life transitions, or depression.
(563) 794-4735 View (563) 794-4735
Photo of Skye Kelley, MS, t-LMHC, Counselor
Skye Kelley
Counselor, MS, t-LMHC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, IA 52361
My primary goal while working with someone is to provide a safe, judgement free environment which allows them to feel comfortable exploring who they are and grow into who they want to be. I believe the client knows themselves best, and I will work with the client every step of the way to determine what is going to help them grow into the person they want to become. My specialty areas of treatment include depression, anxiety, body image concerns, trauma, substance abuse, and adjustment disorders.
My primary goal while working with someone is to provide a safe, judgement free environment which allows them to feel comfortable exploring who they are and grow into who they want to be. I believe the client knows themselves best, and I will work with the client every step of the way to determine what is going to help them grow into the person they want to become. My specialty areas of treatment include depression, anxiety, body image concerns, trauma, substance abuse, and adjustment disorders.
(319) 432-0812 View (319) 432-0812
Photo of LaJuana Walker-McGill, PhD, LMHC, NCC
LaJuana Walker-McGill
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404  (Online Only)
These include: depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, grief & loss, family conflicts, work-related issues, interpersonal communication, etc.
Are you looking for ways to improve your quality of life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that is dedicated to helping others create positive outcomes for their lives. Through 24 years of experience in private practice, I have demonstrated my dedication to the empowerment of individuals and couples. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment that promotes positive outcomes for the clients that I serve. Virtual therapy appointments available for Iowa clients. Do you have Aetna, Cigna, or Optum (Optum EAP) insurance? Please click my website link to request a consultation.
These include: depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, grief & loss, family conflicts, work-related issues, interpersonal communication, etc.
Are you looking for ways to improve your quality of life? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that is dedicated to helping others create positive outcomes for their lives. Through 24 years of experience in private practice, I have demonstrated my dedication to the empowerment of individuals and couples. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment that promotes positive outcomes for the clients that I serve. Virtual therapy appointments available for Iowa clients. Do you have Aetna, Cigna, or Optum (Optum EAP) insurance? Please click my website link to request a consultation.
(515) 500-5451 View (515) 500-5451
Photo of Haylie Schrock, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haylie Schrock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52803
Waitlist for new clients
I have always had a passion for helping others and therapy is a proven way to get through some of the barriers that can present during life, which is why I am here. I enjoy working with populations of 15+ years of age. I see clients for a variety of reasons anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and adjustments that take place in life. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults along with supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. My clients set goals and I will walk with you through this process. Together we will navigate and tackle the various ups and downs that you might face through your journey.
I have always had a passion for helping others and therapy is a proven way to get through some of the barriers that can present during life, which is why I am here. I enjoy working with populations of 15+ years of age. I see clients for a variety of reasons anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and adjustments that take place in life. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults along with supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. My clients set goals and I will walk with you through this process. Together we will navigate and tackle the various ups and downs that you might face through your journey.
(563) 412-5817 x703 View (563) 412-5817 x703
Photo of Matthew Reinert, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Reinert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I specialize in working with clients with complex trauma/PTSD and clients struggling with anxiety and depression.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth therapy. My practice utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to understand and address each client's unique goals for therapy. I view the client as the expert on their own situation and value a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on honoring the individual and their self-determination.
I specialize in working with clients with complex trauma/PTSD and clients struggling with anxiety and depression.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth therapy. My practice utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to understand and address each client's unique goals for therapy. I view the client as the expert on their own situation and value a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on honoring the individual and their self-determination.
(319) 271-1434 View (319) 271-1434
Photo of Abby Smith, tLMHC, Counselor
Abby Smith
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Abby supports individuals aged 12 and above dealing with various mental health challenges like eating disorders, sports-related performance anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and prenatal-postnatal concerns. She specializes in working with athletes at high school, college, and professional levels. Abby employs therapeutic approaches including CBT-E, IPT, FBT, ACT and IFS. She has presented at athletic conventions, emphasizing preventive care for eating disorders among athletes, and is passionate about raising awareness of mental health in the athletic community.
Abby supports individuals aged 12 and above dealing with various mental health challenges like eating disorders, sports-related performance anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and prenatal-postnatal concerns. She specializes in working with athletes at high school, college, and professional levels. Abby employs therapeutic approaches including CBT-E, IPT, FBT, ACT and IFS. She has presented at athletic conventions, emphasizing preventive care for eating disorders among athletes, and is passionate about raising awareness of mental health in the athletic community.
(319) 432-0765 View (319) 432-0765
Photo of Nicole Ito, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Ito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
Working within the framework of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems Therapy, we can move through depression, anxiety, and extreme experiences, into the life you seek.
The idea of therapy for many people can be scary in a lot of different ways. You may feel like it's an impossible step to take. Or maybe you feel a wall come up at the idea of possibly trusting a therapist. Whatever the case may be, I am here to respect and meet you where you are at. If you notice a mix of feelings or just feel ready to dive right in, that's welcome too; all parts of us are welcome here!
Working within the framework of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems Therapy, we can move through depression, anxiety, and extreme experiences, into the life you seek.
The idea of therapy for many people can be scary in a lot of different ways. You may feel like it's an impossible step to take. Or maybe you feel a wall come up at the idea of possibly trusting a therapist. Whatever the case may be, I am here to respect and meet you where you are at. If you notice a mix of feelings or just feel ready to dive right in, that's welcome too; all parts of us are welcome here!
(319) 528-5085 View (319) 528-5085
Photo of Brenda Boese, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Boese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Everything about you, whether it be people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, dissociation, addictions, chronic illness, or other ways to cope, is invited and welcomed here. All of these have protected you and brought you to this point in time and I’m so grateful you are here. By combining somatic therapy with relationship and connection, healing begins. An awareness of your physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual self will begin to unfold through nervous system regulation. A sense of safety and trust in the moment emerges, maybe for the first time, and the possibility of moving to a new normal begins.
Everything about you, whether it be people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, dissociation, addictions, chronic illness, or other ways to cope, is invited and welcomed here. All of these have protected you and brought you to this point in time and I’m so grateful you are here. By combining somatic therapy with relationship and connection, healing begins. An awareness of your physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual self will begin to unfold through nervous system regulation. A sense of safety and trust in the moment emerges, maybe for the first time, and the possibility of moving to a new normal begins.
(319) 220-5538 View (319) 220-5538
Photo of Marcia Gilbert, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcia Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients for teletherapy within Iowa. My experience includes working with individuals and families for over 13 years in outpatient and inpatient settings. I primarily work with adults. I have specialized training and experience in grief and loss. I am highly skilled in working with adults struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, complex grief, end of life planning and major life transitions. I primarily use a strengths-based Cognitive Behavioral approach that is collaborative, active, here-and-now-focused, and client-centered.
I am currently accepting new clients for teletherapy within Iowa. My experience includes working with individuals and families for over 13 years in outpatient and inpatient settings. I primarily work with adults. I have specialized training and experience in grief and loss. I am highly skilled in working with adults struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, complex grief, end of life planning and major life transitions. I primarily use a strengths-based Cognitive Behavioral approach that is collaborative, active, here-and-now-focused, and client-centered.
(319) 271-6719 View (319) 271-6719
Photo of Alyssa Dlouhy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Dlouhy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with those who are neurodivergent, anyone that may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression, as well as individuals that need support managing stressors such as parenting, relationship concerns and/or life transitions.
As you begin your therapy journey, you may feel excited, hopeful, nervous, terrified, and/or unsure what to expect. This is all normal! I am so proud of you for taking the first step. Now that you are here, I would love to continue to get to know your true authentic self, all of your quicks, interests, strengths and struggles as you begin this new adventure!
I enjoy working with those who are neurodivergent, anyone that may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression, as well as individuals that need support managing stressors such as parenting, relationship concerns and/or life transitions.
As you begin your therapy journey, you may feel excited, hopeful, nervous, terrified, and/or unsure what to expect. This is all normal! I am so proud of you for taking the first step. Now that you are here, I would love to continue to get to know your true authentic self, all of your quicks, interests, strengths and struggles as you begin this new adventure!
(319) 540-3712 View (319) 540-3712
Photo of Christina Wassenhove, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Christina Wassenhove
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52803
I currently specialize in issues with trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as issues specifically related to military or law enforcement service.
Hello! It's so nice to meet you and I really appreciate the time you took to check us out! My name is Christina, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I believe in taking an eclectic approach towards mental health recovery, and I understand that everyone is on their own unique journey. It is important not to rush the process and give yourself the time and attention you deserve.
I currently specialize in issues with trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as issues specifically related to military or law enforcement service.
Hello! It's so nice to meet you and I really appreciate the time you took to check us out! My name is Christina, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I believe in taking an eclectic approach towards mental health recovery, and I understand that everyone is on their own unique journey. It is important not to rush the process and give yourself the time and attention you deserve.
(563) 447-9637 View (563) 447-9637
Photo of Michelle Hansen, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317  (Online Only)
Michelle's approach to psychotherapy is grounded in her belief that the potential for healing and change lies within us all. She combines modern psychotherapy techniques with holistic mental health techniques to create an individual approach to healing to support client's experiencing anxiety/depression/grief and loss/trauma and life adjustments. Her goal is to provide therapeutic approaches and tools that can easily be integrated into daily life. She believes that creating a life of joy, meaning and balance are possible with the proper support and practice.
Michelle's approach to psychotherapy is grounded in her belief that the potential for healing and change lies within us all. She combines modern psychotherapy techniques with holistic mental health techniques to create an individual approach to healing to support client's experiencing anxiety/depression/grief and loss/trauma and life adjustments. Her goal is to provide therapeutic approaches and tools that can easily be integrated into daily life. She believes that creating a life of joy, meaning and balance are possible with the proper support and practice.
(319) 250-2402 View (319) 250-2402
Photo of Erin Forbes, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Forbes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
As a therapist, I believe that a person is more than just the sum of their experiences. Each one of us is made up of our unique thoughts, emotions and ideas. I have devoted my career to finding ways of honoring who you are, as well as who you want to become. My clients range from children to adults, and my special interests are with teens, parents and families. I am clinically trained to help individuals and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, conflicts and grief. My style is direct, non-judgmental and supportive, as we work together to create a treatment plan that uniquely fits your needs.
As a therapist, I believe that a person is more than just the sum of their experiences. Each one of us is made up of our unique thoughts, emotions and ideas. I have devoted my career to finding ways of honoring who you are, as well as who you want to become. My clients range from children to adults, and my special interests are with teens, parents and families. I am clinically trained to help individuals and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, conflicts and grief. My style is direct, non-judgmental and supportive, as we work together to create a treatment plan that uniquely fits your needs.
(319) 670-3545 View (319) 670-3545
Photo of Natalie Quinn, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
“Your doubts create mountains. Your actions move them.” – Mel Robbins. The journey of life is filled with challenges. When depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or significant life transitions enter the picture, it can feel overwhelming. Coping with the flood of emotions and the sense of isolation that often accompanies stress and loss can be daunting. Trying to tackle these issues alone or ignoring them may only intensify the emotional turmoil. However, you don't have to navigate this path solo. Therapy offers a supportive and collaborative space where we can explore your unique personality, values and strengths.
“Your doubts create mountains. Your actions move them.” – Mel Robbins. The journey of life is filled with challenges. When depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or significant life transitions enter the picture, it can feel overwhelming. Coping with the flood of emotions and the sense of isolation that often accompanies stress and loss can be daunting. Trying to tackle these issues alone or ignoring them may only intensify the emotional turmoil. However, you don't have to navigate this path solo. Therapy offers a supportive and collaborative space where we can explore your unique personality, values and strengths.
(319) 255-2493 View (319) 255-2493
Photo of Farrah Bonde, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Farrah Bonde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241  (Online Only)
Farrah is accepting new patients. Farrah has worked in both private and nonprofit mental health settings for over twenty years. Her clinical expertise includes working with teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of emotional, relationship, and professional challenges. Farrah has extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, grief, divorce, life transitions, work stress, anxiety and depression. Farrah creates a safe space for her clients to be open, learn new skills and work through difficult issues while supported.
Farrah is accepting new patients. Farrah has worked in both private and nonprofit mental health settings for over twenty years. Her clinical expertise includes working with teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of emotional, relationship, and professional challenges. Farrah has extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, grief, divorce, life transitions, work stress, anxiety and depression. Farrah creates a safe space for her clients to be open, learn new skills and work through difficult issues while supported.
(319) 250-7077 View (319) 250-7077
Photo of Pat L McArtor, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Pat L McArtor
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I received my BA in Psychology from the University of Iowa in 1980 and returned to receive my MA in Counseling and Human Development in 1992. I have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa since 1998. I have over 30 years of experience in the counseling field and utilize a variety of cognitive/behavioral approaches in working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. Areas of experience include depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, ADD/ADHD, relationship, couple and divorce issues, stress and anger management, domestic violence, and substance abuse issues.
I received my BA in Psychology from the University of Iowa in 1980 and returned to receive my MA in Counseling and Human Development in 1992. I have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa since 1998. I have over 30 years of experience in the counseling field and utilize a variety of cognitive/behavioral approaches in working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. Areas of experience include depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, ADD/ADHD, relationship, couple and divorce issues, stress and anger management, domestic violence, and substance abuse issues.
(319) 774-4313 View (319) 774-4313

See more therapy options for Fort Madison

Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Fort Madison

See More Depression Therapists
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.