Marriage Counseling Therapists in Schertz, TX

Photo of Anne Beth Manske - Anne Manske Counseling, MA-MFT, LPC, LMHC, CACR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Manske Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-MFT, LPC, LMHC, CACR
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78108  (Online Only)
My education and training in marital/couples/relationship issues include Relational Life Therapy including healing inner child and childhood wounds, to quickly change problems to opportunities for connection.
I love helping couples who are longing for connection with their partner but feel stuck and just want to give up. I help awaken people and teach them to operate in a whole new, healthy, functional way from what they could imagine! I use RLT, or Relational Life Therapy. This approach works, and it's so effective that change happens rapidly if you are yearning for better more loving connections and communication with your loved one. Also, I help people with anxiety and depression, and adjustment issues. There are over 50 tools and methods that I use with T.E.A.M. CBT if you are ready to roll up your sleeves and start making changes.
My education and training in marital/couples/relationship issues include Relational Life Therapy including healing inner child and childhood wounds, to quickly change problems to opportunities for connection.
I love helping couples who are longing for connection with their partner but feel stuck and just want to give up. I help awaken people and teach them to operate in a whole new, healthy, functional way from what they could imagine! I use RLT, or Relational Life Therapy. This approach works, and it's so effective that change happens rapidly if you are yearning for better more loving connections and communication with your loved one. Also, I help people with anxiety and depression, and adjustment issues. There are over 50 tools and methods that I use with T.E.A.M. CBT if you are ready to roll up your sleeves and start making changes.
(210) 348-3895 View (210) 348-3895
Photo of Patricia Day, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Day
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154  (Online Only)
I have over eight years of experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist working with families and individuals who are suffering from relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety and trauma.
NOW OFFERING ON-LINE OR TELEHEALTH SESSIONS ONLY. Reaching out is not easy, and starting your healing journey is less so. Feeling sad, anxious, fearful or hopeless can be scary and lonely for someone who has no idea where to start to get better. While many of the topics shared by my clients are hurtful and frightening, I also find humor can be helpful. I strive to be honest and transparent with my clients while providing them with a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore all issues you're dealing.
I have over eight years of experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist working with families and individuals who are suffering from relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety and trauma.
NOW OFFERING ON-LINE OR TELEHEALTH SESSIONS ONLY. Reaching out is not easy, and starting your healing journey is less so. Feeling sad, anxious, fearful or hopeless can be scary and lonely for someone who has no idea where to start to get better. While many of the topics shared by my clients are hurtful and frightening, I also find humor can be helpful. I strive to be honest and transparent with my clients while providing them with a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore all issues you're dealing.
(210) 982-0708 View (210) 982-0708
Photo of Beatrice M. Chapa, PhD, Psychologist
Beatrice M. Chapa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154  (Online Only)
I have 22 years experience helping clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marital problems.
Therapy is a very personal experience. From managing emotions, to coping with life stressors, to improving relationships, each person has their own reason for wanting to begin therapy. I work with each client to identify specific changes they want to make and find the tools to make them. My focus is to consider your individual situation first, working collaboratively to reach the goals you choose. There are many ways therapy can be helpful if you are feeling overwhelmed. I can provide a calm place as you learn to cope with difficult feelings. Call if you are ready to make changes.
I have 22 years experience helping clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marital problems.
Therapy is a very personal experience. From managing emotions, to coping with life stressors, to improving relationships, each person has their own reason for wanting to begin therapy. I work with each client to identify specific changes they want to make and find the tools to make them. My focus is to consider your individual situation first, working collaboratively to reach the goals you choose. There are many ways therapy can be helpful if you are feeling overwhelmed. I can provide a calm place as you learn to cope with difficult feelings. Call if you are ready to make changes.
(210) 330-4430 View (210) 330-4430
Photo of Roxanna Ramirez, EdD, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roxanna Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
I have 20 years of clinical experience helping children and teens with a variety of issues including Autism Spectrum Disorder(All ages), ODD, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavior problems, parenting challenges, communication skills and helping the families cope with these issues. Additionally I have 15 years experience specializing in working with special education eligible students and their families as well as all at risk students and other school challenges. I believe in focusing on the family and helping parents learn skills to manage behaviors and improve communitcation at home. Additionally, I work with GBLT, trauma, men's/woman's issues, marital issues, individual & family conflict.
I have 20 years of clinical experience helping children and teens with a variety of issues including Autism Spectrum Disorder(All ages), ODD, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavior problems, parenting challenges, communication skills and helping the families cope with these issues. Additionally I have 15 years experience specializing in working with special education eligible students and their families as well as all at risk students and other school challenges. I believe in focusing on the family and helping parents learn skills to manage behaviors and improve communitcation at home. Additionally, I work with GBLT, trauma, men's/woman's issues, marital issues, individual & family conflict.
(210) 807-8214 View (210) 807-8214
Photo of Shirley A Nedock - Living Tree New Braunfels Counseling Center PLLC, MS, LPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Tree New Braunfels Counseling Center PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
My professional experience includes working with our military services members and their dependents working through deployments, suicide, multiple relocation's, marital issues, PTSD and other issues that military families face. In addition, I have worked with families, teens and children on multiple issues such as depression, anxiety, family issues, divorce, substance abuse, anger management, grief and loss, parenting skills, domestic violence and adolescent issues. now offering mental health evals, fit for duty evaluations , custody evaluation , dwi evaluations and other and testing. Now offering supervision to LPC-A's
My professional experience includes working with our military services members and their dependents working through deployments, suicide, multiple relocation's, marital issues, PTSD and other issues that military families face. In addition, I have worked with families, teens and children on multiple issues such as depression, anxiety, family issues, divorce, substance abuse, anger management, grief and loss, parenting skills, domestic violence and adolescent issues. now offering mental health evals, fit for duty evaluations , custody evaluation , dwi evaluations and other and testing. Now offering supervision to LPC-A's
(210) 987-8367 View (210) 987-8367
Photo of Jackie Engelhardt, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jackie Engelhardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154  (Online Only)
As a mother of grown children and step-children; and someone who has experienced divorce, re-marriage, and step-families both as a child and an adult, I have a real understanding of many of the issues that bring individuals and families into therapy.
Therapy should not be complicated - it's really about sitting down and talking with another person without feeling judged, talked down to, or being told what to do. My goal is to provide safe, nurturing, and effective psychotherapy to adults. I use practical and individually tailored approaches. I strive to create an atmosphere of teamwork that allows clients to educate me about their lives and they changes they want. I am not seeing couples at this time.
As a mother of grown children and step-children; and someone who has experienced divorce, re-marriage, and step-families both as a child and an adult, I have a real understanding of many of the issues that bring individuals and families into therapy.
Therapy should not be complicated - it's really about sitting down and talking with another person without feeling judged, talked down to, or being told what to do. My goal is to provide safe, nurturing, and effective psychotherapy to adults. I use practical and individually tailored approaches. I strive to create an atmosphere of teamwork that allows clients to educate me about their lives and they changes they want. I am not seeing couples at this time.
(210) 446-4684 View (210) 446-4684
Photo of Tracey D Bauer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracey D Bauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
Treatment specialization includes: - Marriage & Relationship Issues - Pre-marital Counseling - Marriage & Relationship Enhancement - Infidelity - Self-Esteem & Personal Growth - Work and Career Issues - Stress Management - Adjustment Issues - Life Changes/Challenges.
I am a couples and relationship specialist with over 14 years of experience. I help couples learn to improve their friendship, connection & intimacy, communicate and manage conflict, build trust and commitment, and learn to live a "Healthy Relationship Lifestyle." Using the scientifically validated approaches of Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, I help couples to improve their interactions and connections starting with the very first session. I look forward to beginning your journey!
Treatment specialization includes: - Marriage & Relationship Issues - Pre-marital Counseling - Marriage & Relationship Enhancement - Infidelity - Self-Esteem & Personal Growth - Work and Career Issues - Stress Management - Adjustment Issues - Life Changes/Challenges.
I am a couples and relationship specialist with over 14 years of experience. I help couples learn to improve their friendship, connection & intimacy, communicate and manage conflict, build trust and commitment, and learn to live a "Healthy Relationship Lifestyle." Using the scientifically validated approaches of Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, I help couples to improve their interactions and connections starting with the very first session. I look forward to beginning your journey!
(210) 881-7631 View (210) 881-7631
Photo of Catary L Palmieri, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catary L Palmieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist whose desire is to bring healing through integrating biblical concepts and psychotherapy techniques. I have worked with Christians who are wanting to improving their communication and conflict resolution skills within their marriages and families. I teach adults and teens how to navigate their Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder through better coping skill and alternative techniques. I teach Pre-Marriage and marriage education using the "Prepare and Enrich" assessment.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist whose desire is to bring healing through integrating biblical concepts and psychotherapy techniques. I have worked with Christians who are wanting to improving their communication and conflict resolution skills within their marriages and families. I teach adults and teens how to navigate their Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder through better coping skill and alternative techniques. I teach Pre-Marriage and marriage education using the "Prepare and Enrich" assessment.
(830) 268-4072 View (830) 268-4072
Photo of Bernadette Puente-Renteria, MMFT, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bernadette Puente-Renteria
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate I utilize a systemic approach which will assist you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and the issues you are currently experiencing.
Life can be challenging filled with uncertainty and a feeling of confusion or even loss. However, together we can create a treatment plan that is personalized to your individual needs and goals. Giving you an empowering and positive outlook to create the life you want.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate I utilize a systemic approach which will assist you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and the issues you are currently experiencing.
Life can be challenging filled with uncertainty and a feeling of confusion or even loss. However, together we can create a treatment plan that is personalized to your individual needs and goals. Giving you an empowering and positive outlook to create the life you want.
(210) 899-6587 View (210) 899-6587
Photo of Trish Leaver PhD.,LPC,CCTP, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trish Leaver PhD.,LPC,CCTP
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154  (Online Only)
military, and first responders dealing with life's issues as well as those struggling with PTSD, trauma, marriage/divorce, & stressors of chronic pain/illnesses.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls and with those hiccups in life come struggles in which we all need help. I believe that it is in those moments when turning to others is key to helping one heal and move forward with their lives. I see strength in seeking counseling for oneself, because that takes courage on your part to step outside of your box and seek help. Establishing a therapeutic relationship that leads to the development of trust is important for growth and healing of a client. It takes courage to take that first step towards counseling, I hope to be able to walk this step with you.
military, and first responders dealing with life's issues as well as those struggling with PTSD, trauma, marriage/divorce, & stressors of chronic pain/illnesses.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls and with those hiccups in life come struggles in which we all need help. I believe that it is in those moments when turning to others is key to helping one heal and move forward with their lives. I see strength in seeking counseling for oneself, because that takes courage on your part to step outside of your box and seek help. Establishing a therapeutic relationship that leads to the development of trust is important for growth and healing of a client. It takes courage to take that first step towards counseling, I hope to be able to walk this step with you.
(210) 361-1728 View (210) 361-1728
Photo of Brandi Martin, LPC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
***Telehealth and/or In office Counseling!*** Are you seeking solutions, peace, results, or balance? As your counselor, I will listen and guide YOU to just those things as we process whatever it is that you bring to the table. There are no problems or goals too big or too small. It is important that my clients feel safe in order to make progress as individuals or as a couple. Progress looks different for each person but we will work together to improve you socially, emotionally, behaviorally, physically, and/or spiritually.
***Telehealth and/or In office Counseling!*** Are you seeking solutions, peace, results, or balance? As your counselor, I will listen and guide YOU to just those things as we process whatever it is that you bring to the table. There are no problems or goals too big or too small. It is important that my clients feel safe in order to make progress as individuals or as a couple. Progress looks different for each person but we will work together to improve you socially, emotionally, behaviorally, physically, and/or spiritually.
(830) 267-2772 View (830) 267-2772
Photo of Jeanne Ramirez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanne Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
My name is Jeanne Ramirez, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. I work via telehealth with adults and adolescents throughout the state. My specialties are trauma, anxiety, and depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the main approach I use to help my clients work through the issues that are troubling them, so they can begin to feel better as quickly as possible. Most of my clients are adults or teens who have experienced some type of trauma that has led to depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress.
My name is Jeanne Ramirez, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. I work via telehealth with adults and adolescents throughout the state. My specialties are trauma, anxiety, and depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the main approach I use to help my clients work through the issues that are troubling them, so they can begin to feel better as quickly as possible. Most of my clients are adults or teens who have experienced some type of trauma that has led to depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress.
(832) 430-1575 View (832) 430-1575
Photo of Alicia Branch-McDowell, LPC, M Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Branch-McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, M Ed
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
Waitlist accepting new clients (individuals, teens, and couples.) I am a dedicated counselor committed to providing top quality services to all my clients. My primary specialty is working with couples, but I have a variety of experience in the counseling field working with teens suffering from self-esteem issues, women struggling with anxiety and boundaries, men's issues, parenting woes, spiritual growth development, and military family issues. If you find yourself feeling overly stressed, avoiding the people you love, or overwhelmed with normal daily tasks, therapy can help you feel empowered again.
Waitlist accepting new clients (individuals, teens, and couples.) I am a dedicated counselor committed to providing top quality services to all my clients. My primary specialty is working with couples, but I have a variety of experience in the counseling field working with teens suffering from self-esteem issues, women struggling with anxiety and boundaries, men's issues, parenting woes, spiritual growth development, and military family issues. If you find yourself feeling overly stressed, avoiding the people you love, or overwhelmed with normal daily tasks, therapy can help you feel empowered again.
(210) 314-1606 View (210) 314-1606
Photo of Munira Moiz Tajkhanji, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Munira Moiz Tajkhanji
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
I am best suited to adults and teens who are struggling with stress, work and family issues, personal challenges and past trauma resolution. My approach to counseling includes creative methods to keep my clients engaged, goal setting and strength based techniques that empower the individual. Clients who really want to see results and are prepared to partner with their therapist will definitely see overall change as we work together to address their concerns.
I am best suited to adults and teens who are struggling with stress, work and family issues, personal challenges and past trauma resolution. My approach to counseling includes creative methods to keep my clients engaged, goal setting and strength based techniques that empower the individual. Clients who really want to see results and are prepared to partner with their therapist will definitely see overall change as we work together to address their concerns.
(210) 405-7275 View (210) 405-7275
Photo of Angele Devezin, MSW, LMSW
Angele Devezin
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78108  (Online Only)
Have you had an experience that was traumatic, or a history of early childhood trauma that has a grip on you, limiting the joy and love you want in your life? Childhood traumas can result in severe physical and emotional trauma to a survivor and their loved ones. Whether it happened two weeks or two decades ago, sexual trauma can cause sexual, intimacy and relationship issues, symptoms of PTSD or borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideations, problems with memory, etc... Seeking help is a courageous step in transcending harm and regaining power and control over your body and life.
Have you had an experience that was traumatic, or a history of early childhood trauma that has a grip on you, limiting the joy and love you want in your life? Childhood traumas can result in severe physical and emotional trauma to a survivor and their loved ones. Whether it happened two weeks or two decades ago, sexual trauma can cause sexual, intimacy and relationship issues, symptoms of PTSD or borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideations, problems with memory, etc... Seeking help is a courageous step in transcending harm and regaining power and control over your body and life.
(830) 532-7166 View (830) 532-7166
Photo of Ludivina Acevedo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ludivina Acevedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
Please schedule a free consultation through my website. Through life’s experiences, I have learned that our pain is neve wasted and identify as a wounded healer whose purpose is to live out Isaiah 61:1-3. I seek to connect with my clients in a compassionate way to work collaboratively in the counseling process. I work with women, young adults, families, children, and adolescents. I am passionate about helping children and teenagers express their emotions and understand their own mental health. I understand that it is important to work with the family system as well and incorporate parents and caregivers in the process as needed.
Please schedule a free consultation through my website. Through life’s experiences, I have learned that our pain is neve wasted and identify as a wounded healer whose purpose is to live out Isaiah 61:1-3. I seek to connect with my clients in a compassionate way to work collaboratively in the counseling process. I work with women, young adults, families, children, and adolescents. I am passionate about helping children and teenagers express their emotions and understand their own mental health. I understand that it is important to work with the family system as well and incorporate parents and caregivers in the process as needed.
(210) 361-0230 View (210) 361-0230
Photo of Ashley A. Bono, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley A. Bono
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
I have over ten years worth of experience working with children ages 3-18 in various settings throughout my professional career. I have five years of experience working with children and adolescents with a variety of mental health diagnosis (i.e. Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, ODD, etc.). I also have experience addressing behavioral problems, parent-child relationship difficulties, improving parenting skills, and improving communication between family members.
I have over ten years worth of experience working with children ages 3-18 in various settings throughout my professional career. I have five years of experience working with children and adolescents with a variety of mental health diagnosis (i.e. Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, ODD, etc.). I also have experience addressing behavioral problems, parent-child relationship difficulties, improving parenting skills, and improving communication between family members.
(830) 730-6090 View (830) 730-6090
Photo of Dawn Marie Mcfadden, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Marie Mcfadden
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154  (Online Only)
Our goal at Serenity Family Services is to partner with you as you embark on life's journey to improve your overall well being. Families, careers, relationships and life in general can be challenging. We want to work with you to help strengthen you and your family by providing you with tools to help enhance you mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually so that you can obtain a well-balanced life and obtain the PEACE that you have been looking for.
Our goal at Serenity Family Services is to partner with you as you embark on life's journey to improve your overall well being. Families, careers, relationships and life in general can be challenging. We want to work with you to help strengthen you and your family by providing you with tools to help enhance you mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually so that you can obtain a well-balanced life and obtain the PEACE that you have been looking for.
(210) 960-9133 View (210) 960-9133
Photo of Susan M Greco, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan M Greco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78108
Have most of your days become consumed with mental worry and feelings of aloneness? And, the family and friends you were once able to reach out to are now preoccupied with their own issues and concerns? You want the relief of feeling heard by someone who will not judge your thoughts, no matter what they are. I am here for you.
Have most of your days become consumed with mental worry and feelings of aloneness? And, the family and friends you were once able to reach out to are now preoccupied with their own issues and concerns? You want the relief of feeling heard by someone who will not judge your thoughts, no matter what they are. I am here for you.
(713) 999-9264 View (713) 999-9264
Photo of Cass Carrizales, MA, LPC-A
Cass Carrizales
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
Waitlist for new clients
I sought to be a counselor to help others become the best version of themselves in order to live their best lives. I am a retired Major in the United States Army with 23 years of military service. My military assignments have ranged from Topographic Non-Commissioned Officer, Horizontal Engineer Company Commander, Brigade Engineer Battalion Executive Officer, and Combat Engineer. I have dedicated my career to taking care of soldiers and their families. My husband, Daniel Carrizales, is a retired Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps. I have four girls (ages 27, 25, 22, & 17), two boys (ages 20 & 13), and five lovely grandchildren.
I sought to be a counselor to help others become the best version of themselves in order to live their best lives. I am a retired Major in the United States Army with 23 years of military service. My military assignments have ranged from Topographic Non-Commissioned Officer, Horizontal Engineer Company Commander, Brigade Engineer Battalion Executive Officer, and Combat Engineer. I have dedicated my career to taking care of soldiers and their families. My husband, Daniel Carrizales, is a retired Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps. I have four girls (ages 27, 25, 22, & 17), two boys (ages 20 & 13), and five lovely grandchildren.
(210) 940-1460 View (210) 940-1460
1
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.