Sleep or Insomnia Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Peter Kopcha, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Kopcha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63128
My specialized expertise include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), working with seniors, and spirituality.
Hello, my name is Peter and I provide general purpose mental health counseling. My goal is to help you restore emotional control of your life. I firmly believe that you are capable of positive change, that you can overcome distress, and that you will emerge a stronger person from your ordeal. Whether your struggles are temporary or more chronic in nature, I would be honored to listen to you, provide feedback, assist you in designing a treatment plan, and be your support throughout the process. I recognize your uniqueness as an individual and I will always respect your right to make decisions regarding treatment.
My specialized expertise include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), working with seniors, and spirituality.
Hello, my name is Peter and I provide general purpose mental health counseling. My goal is to help you restore emotional control of your life. I firmly believe that you are capable of positive change, that you can overcome distress, and that you will emerge a stronger person from your ordeal. Whether your struggles are temporary or more chronic in nature, I would be honored to listen to you, provide feedback, assist you in designing a treatment plan, and be your support throughout the process. I recognize your uniqueness as an individual and I will always respect your right to make decisions regarding treatment.
(314) 451-7732 View (314) 451-7732
Photo of Linda S Pevnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda S Pevnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
Do you sleep as well as you would like? Overcoming insomnia is a specialty of mine.
Are you feeling like your best self? Baffled about what the problem is? Are you sleeping ok? Are you having a troubled relationhips with a spouse or a family member? Do feelings of depression and anxiety keep you from being as happy as you would like to be. Do you need guidance to find a way to feel satisfied with your life? You don't have to struggle alone. I help individuals and couples to overcome the roadblocks that keep them stuck so that they can go on to live happier and more productive lives. I can help you learn what stands in your way of feeling better about your life and give you the tools you need to keep it that way!
Do you sleep as well as you would like? Overcoming insomnia is a specialty of mine.
Are you feeling like your best self? Baffled about what the problem is? Are you sleeping ok? Are you having a troubled relationhips with a spouse or a family member? Do feelings of depression and anxiety keep you from being as happy as you would like to be. Do you need guidance to find a way to feel satisfied with your life? You don't have to struggle alone. I help individuals and couples to overcome the roadblocks that keep them stuck so that they can go on to live happier and more productive lives. I can help you learn what stands in your way of feeling better about your life and give you the tools you need to keep it that way!
(314) 828-5325 View (314) 828-5325
Photo of William Mattingly, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Mattingly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63122
My passion and specialty are using evidence-based treatment, an up-to-date understanding of the brain, and a safe, healing therapeutic relationship to help adolescents and adults who suffer from sleep issues, depression, anxiety, and sexual addiction and those struggling in their marriages and intimate relationships or moving through major life transitions.
Life is difficult. You can be coasting along, only to wake up and find you just don’t have the same kind of joy and excitement that you used to. Activities and being with people you used to enjoy now just feel dull and lifeless or fill you with anxiety and, no matter what you do, nothing changes. You have difficulty falling asleep and, when you finally do, you wake up feeling exhausted and unrested. Your relationships may often be defined by constant fighting, insecurity, or lack of connection and excitement. Issues of sexual integrity fill you with shame, and, no matter what you do, you continue to struggle.
My passion and specialty are using evidence-based treatment, an up-to-date understanding of the brain, and a safe, healing therapeutic relationship to help adolescents and adults who suffer from sleep issues, depression, anxiety, and sexual addiction and those struggling in their marriages and intimate relationships or moving through major life transitions.
Life is difficult. You can be coasting along, only to wake up and find you just don’t have the same kind of joy and excitement that you used to. Activities and being with people you used to enjoy now just feel dull and lifeless or fill you with anxiety and, no matter what you do, nothing changes. You have difficulty falling asleep and, when you finally do, you wake up feeling exhausted and unrested. Your relationships may often be defined by constant fighting, insecurity, or lack of connection and excitement. Issues of sexual integrity fill you with shame, and, no matter what you do, you continue to struggle.
(314) 310-2279 View (314) 310-2279
Photo of Chundra Williams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chundra Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Chundra and welcome to my page. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in 6 states (AR, MO, KS, IL, OH, TX), looking to help you feel empowered on your journey of growth. I am here to empower you to consider different perspectives along your journey. You have already made a huge decision to seek help so allow me to assist you on this healing journey. I offer support and coaching to individuals who are experiencing significant life changes and are seeking personal growth as well as those suffering from depression, anxiety, parenting issues, adjustment issues, relationship issues, and insomnia.
Hi! My name is Chundra and welcome to my page. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in 6 states (AR, MO, KS, IL, OH, TX), looking to help you feel empowered on your journey of growth. I am here to empower you to consider different perspectives along your journey. You have already made a huge decision to seek help so allow me to assist you on this healing journey. I offer support and coaching to individuals who are experiencing significant life changes and are seeking personal growth as well as those suffering from depression, anxiety, parenting issues, adjustment issues, relationship issues, and insomnia.
(314) 912-1157 View (314) 912-1157
Photo of Ashley Brauer, PhD, LP, DBSM, Psychologist
Ashley Brauer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, DBSM
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in health and performance psychology, including concerns related to performance, sleep, & injury. My approach is driven by evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral and related modalities (e.g., mindfulness-based therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing.)
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in health and performance psychology, including concerns related to performance, sleep, & injury. My approach is driven by evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral and related modalities (e.g., mindfulness-based therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing.)
(612) 712-3853 View (612) 712-3853
Photo of Dr. Melissa Lukse - Dr. Melissa Lukse, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Lukse, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116  (Online Only)
Dr. Lukse is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and binge eating disorder. She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities. She offers telehealth services in Illinois, New York, Missouri, and Iowa.
Dr. Lukse is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and binge eating disorder. She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities. She offers telehealth services in Illinois, New York, Missouri, and Iowa.
(224) 208-1821 View (224) 208-1821
Photo of Dustin B Adamo, PhD, Psychologist
Dustin B Adamo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Examples include sleep, nutrition, physical activity, spirituality, interpersonal relationships, and others.
Available remotely in: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CN, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY. I was introduced to psychology while going through a difficult time as a young college student and seeking the help of a therapist. The experience taught me so much about myself and how to manage my emotions during difficult times that I decided to learn more about the field. One intro to psychology class turned into two more, and then just 12 short years later (with a few twists and turns along the way) I completed my PhD in counseling psychology!
Examples include sleep, nutrition, physical activity, spirituality, interpersonal relationships, and others.
Available remotely in: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CN, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY. I was introduced to psychology while going through a difficult time as a young college student and seeking the help of a therapist. The experience taught me so much about myself and how to manage my emotions during difficult times that I decided to learn more about the field. One intro to psychology class turned into two more, and then just 12 short years later (with a few twists and turns along the way) I completed my PhD in counseling psychology!
(636) 306-5279 x8 View (636) 306-5279 x8
Photo of Fawn Weber, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fawn Weber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
I am certified in nutritional therapies so I can address common obstacles to brain health, such as sleep, diet and movement, to build or restore your foundation.
Families can find themselves in high conflict, overwhelmed and discontent, having lost the joy of being together but not know why. Some families know why but don't know what to do about it! Some individuals can find themselves feeling unfulfilled, stuck and sad more days than not, while others may feel anxious, worried and self-critical most of the time. Many people have all of this going on at once! If you are looking to improve the communication and calm in your family, or to shut down the self-critical thoughts to feel more confident, I can help.
I am certified in nutritional therapies so I can address common obstacles to brain health, such as sleep, diet and movement, to build or restore your foundation.
Families can find themselves in high conflict, overwhelmed and discontent, having lost the joy of being together but not know why. Some families know why but don't know what to do about it! Some individuals can find themselves feeling unfulfilled, stuck and sad more days than not, while others may feel anxious, worried and self-critical most of the time. Many people have all of this going on at once! If you are looking to improve the communication and calm in your family, or to shut down the self-critical thoughts to feel more confident, I can help.
(314) 526-3474 View (314) 526-3474
Photo of Cadence Hodes, LPC, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cadence Hodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Therapy is unique in that it provides the opportunity to show up exactly as you are and explore your thoughts, feelings, identities, and relationships without fear of judgement; and to feel heard, accepted, and cared for in return. Life feels harder every day, and my goal is to provide space to decompress, navigate life's big and small challenges, and celebrate your growth and successes. We might be a good fit if you are in a life transition, experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with sleep, or are hoping to improve your relationship with your body.
Therapy is unique in that it provides the opportunity to show up exactly as you are and explore your thoughts, feelings, identities, and relationships without fear of judgement; and to feel heard, accepted, and cared for in return. Life feels harder every day, and my goal is to provide space to decompress, navigate life's big and small challenges, and celebrate your growth and successes. We might be a good fit if you are in a life transition, experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with sleep, or are hoping to improve your relationship with your body.
(314) 408-2772 View (314) 408-2772
Photo of Erin M Lawton - Washington University Psychological Service Ctr, PhD, Psychologist
Washington University Psychological Service Ctr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130
Possible openings for individual therapy; call for availability! The Washington University Psychological Service Center (PSC) offers psychotherapy and neuropsychological/cognitive testing. Therapists are trained to treat a variety of concerns including: Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Trauma/Post-Traumatic Stress, Eating Disorders, Relationship problems, Aging-related issues, Grief and loss, Insomnia, and Behavioral health (e.g., pain). Neuropsychological testing can assess concerns like ADHD, learning disability, memory complaints, or cognitive problems after stroke, brain injury, or other condition.
Possible openings for individual therapy; call for availability! The Washington University Psychological Service Center (PSC) offers psychotherapy and neuropsychological/cognitive testing. Therapists are trained to treat a variety of concerns including: Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Trauma/Post-Traumatic Stress, Eating Disorders, Relationship problems, Aging-related issues, Grief and loss, Insomnia, and Behavioral health (e.g., pain). Neuropsychological testing can assess concerns like ADHD, learning disability, memory complaints, or cognitive problems after stroke, brain injury, or other condition.
(314) 858-5195 View (314) 858-5195
Photo of Konstantin Bilich - Master Mind Hypnosis, CCH
Master Mind Hypnosis
CCH
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
"...hypnosis is not mind control. It's a naturally occurring state of concentration; It's actually a means of enhancing your control over both your mind and your body." Dr. David Spiegel, Assoc. Chair of Psychiatry (Stanford University School of Medicine). Hypnosis is a powerful tool that helps people change behavior, improve emotional response and physical wellbeing. Through hypnosis, you can improve study habits, reduce stress and bost self-esteem...Wehn it is difficult to control appetite, sleep or stress, hypnosis will help you change in a positive way faster with more comfort.
"...hypnosis is not mind control. It's a naturally occurring state of concentration; It's actually a means of enhancing your control over both your mind and your body." Dr. David Spiegel, Assoc. Chair of Psychiatry (Stanford University School of Medicine). Hypnosis is a powerful tool that helps people change behavior, improve emotional response and physical wellbeing. Through hypnosis, you can improve study habits, reduce stress and bost self-esteem...Wehn it is difficult to control appetite, sleep or stress, hypnosis will help you change in a positive way faster with more comfort.
(314) 403-7245 View (314) 403-7245
Photo of Andrew Hill - Peak Brain Institute, PhD
Peak Brain Institute
PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
Peak Brain is an evidence-based peak performance center and gym for the brain (ages 4+). We do neurofeedback or biofeedback on brainwaves, which is exercise for the brain that can create new long-lasting resources for better focus, sleep, productivity, response to stress, creativity, word-finding, mood, and less anxiety, impulsivity, rumination, migraine headaches, seizures, as well as recovery from alcohol abuse, traumatic stress, concussions, etc. We offer remote services which can be done in the comfort of your home, or can begin in person in Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, St. Louis, and New York City. Shift happens - get yours!
Peak Brain is an evidence-based peak performance center and gym for the brain (ages 4+). We do neurofeedback or biofeedback on brainwaves, which is exercise for the brain that can create new long-lasting resources for better focus, sleep, productivity, response to stress, creativity, word-finding, mood, and less anxiety, impulsivity, rumination, migraine headaches, seizures, as well as recovery from alcohol abuse, traumatic stress, concussions, etc. We offer remote services which can be done in the comfort of your home, or can begin in person in Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, St. Louis, and New York City. Shift happens - get yours!
(424) 338-0654 View (424) 338-0654
Photo of Jer Case, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jer Case
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking mental health support in these challenging times? Look no further! Jer is a Native, inclusive, queer, gender-non-conforming, ND, and spiritually-minded therapist who works with children, adolescents, and adults. Jer has experience treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD/Autism, trauma, difficulties with sleep, stress, spirituality/religion, and some other areas of concern as well. Jer is licensed in Oklahoma and Missouri and is a LGBTQ+/Trans/Poly/ENM-Affirming Therapist. Looking for a provider with a queer and BIPOC perspective, then send me an email! :)
Seeking mental health support in these challenging times? Look no further! Jer is a Native, inclusive, queer, gender-non-conforming, ND, and spiritually-minded therapist who works with children, adolescents, and adults. Jer has experience treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD/Autism, trauma, difficulties with sleep, stress, spirituality/religion, and some other areas of concern as well. Jer is licensed in Oklahoma and Missouri and is a LGBTQ+/Trans/Poly/ENM-Affirming Therapist. Looking for a provider with a queer and BIPOC perspective, then send me an email! :)
(539) 224-3156 View (539) 224-3156
Photo of Amy Hoyle - Counseling Center of Cincinnati, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of Cincinnati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
Are you tired of suffering? We specialize in treating mood disorders, bad habits, relationship problems, insomnia, and grief. We use an empathetic. non-judgmental, and data driven approach to monitor progress. Our approach with families and relationships is to improve communication and empathy leading to more loving relationships. We are a teaching practice and are proud to offer lower fee options for people out of network.
Are you tired of suffering? We specialize in treating mood disorders, bad habits, relationship problems, insomnia, and grief. We use an empathetic. non-judgmental, and data driven approach to monitor progress. Our approach with families and relationships is to improve communication and empathy leading to more loving relationships. We are a teaching practice and are proud to offer lower fee options for people out of network.
(513) 434-1989 View (513) 434-1989
Photo of Dr. Jamie Loor, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jamie Loor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63144  (Online Only)
I specialize in PTSD, eating disorders, chronic pain, & insomnia.
Looking for therapy that is compassionate, kind, and leads to measurable improvements? Interested in receiving the best practices in psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) proven to work repeatedly and tailored to you? If so, what about gaining tools so that your improvement during therapy persists after you finish? As a licensed psychologist, researching and publishing work on best practices in mental health, I realized that too often best practices were not available to the general public. I started Leading Edge Therapy as a one-stop place to provide you with the most effective and latest treatments.
I specialize in PTSD, eating disorders, chronic pain, & insomnia.
Looking for therapy that is compassionate, kind, and leads to measurable improvements? Interested in receiving the best practices in psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) proven to work repeatedly and tailored to you? If so, what about gaining tools so that your improvement during therapy persists after you finish? As a licensed psychologist, researching and publishing work on best practices in mental health, I realized that too often best practices were not available to the general public. I started Leading Edge Therapy as a one-stop place to provide you with the most effective and latest treatments.
(417) 815-0442 View (417) 815-0442
Photo of Dr. Danielle Mosley, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle Mosley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a parent with concerns about your child's development, behavior, or mood? Do you have a child with a chronic health condition who could benefit from learning skills to improve coping and adjustment, increase the likelihood of following medical recommendations, or decrease anxiety or pain related to an illness or injury? Do you have concerns about your child's feeding/eating habits, toileting, fears/phobias, or disruptive behavior?
Are you a parent with concerns about your child's development, behavior, or mood? Do you have a child with a chronic health condition who could benefit from learning skills to improve coping and adjustment, increase the likelihood of following medical recommendations, or decrease anxiety or pain related to an illness or injury? Do you have concerns about your child's feeding/eating habits, toileting, fears/phobias, or disruptive behavior?
(314) 310-5420 View (314) 310-5420
Photo of Dr. Sarah Kertz, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Kertz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
If you are a therapist looking for consultation on cases with OCD or feel you're struggling with ERP, I can help. I'm a clinical psychologist with extensive experience. As the owner and director of Anxiety Specialists of St. Louis, I work with clients and also mentor emerging therapists in advanced therapeutic techniques. I completed my internship and postdoctoral training at McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, where I also trained at the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Institute (OCDI). I then taught and supervised doctoral clinical psychology students for 8 years in a university psychology department.
If you are a therapist looking for consultation on cases with OCD or feel you're struggling with ERP, I can help. I'm a clinical psychologist with extensive experience. As the owner and director of Anxiety Specialists of St. Louis, I work with clients and also mentor emerging therapists in advanced therapeutic techniques. I completed my internship and postdoctoral training at McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, where I also trained at the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Institute (OCDI). I then taught and supervised doctoral clinical psychology students for 8 years in a university psychology department.
(314) 907-2206 View (314) 907-2206
Photo of Clayton A. Clark, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clayton A. Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
(314) 666-6308 View (314) 666-6308
Photo of Maria Kuhn, MEd, LPC, RSAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Kuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RSAP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
I started to work in the Psychology field in 1989. I have experience in counseling many different clients from several different backgrounds. I provided personal counseling for employees, individual and group counseling for adolescents an adults. Currently, I provide Couples/Marriage Counseling and Individual Counseling for adults. I hold a BA in Psychology, and earned my Masters degree in Community Counseling from the University of Missouri-St.Louis.
I started to work in the Psychology field in 1989. I have experience in counseling many different clients from several different backgrounds. I provided personal counseling for employees, individual and group counseling for adolescents an adults. Currently, I provide Couples/Marriage Counseling and Individual Counseling for adults. I hold a BA in Psychology, and earned my Masters degree in Community Counseling from the University of Missouri-St.Louis.
(636) 486-3608 View (636) 486-3608
Photo of Anthony F. Pickens, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony F. Pickens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112
I work with families and individuals ages 12 and up who are seeking support with daily life challenges related to emotional, relational, spiritual or career concerns.
I work with families and individuals ages 12 and up who are seeking support with daily life challenges related to emotional, relational, spiritual or career concerns.
(314) 912-3085 View (314) 912-3085

Sleep or Insomnia Therapists

How effective is treatment for insomnia?

The most effective treatments for insomnia are behavioral techniques that reduce anxiety, including anxiety about falling asleep, and allow the body’s natural cycles to be recalibrated. The most common treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which researchers have found to be more useful than medication, with rates of success as high as 80 percent.

Are there specific medications for sleep problems?

There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription that treat sleep problems. Supplements such as melatonin are popular and may help, though there is little evidence that it is more effective than a placebo. Prescription medications such as zolpidem are sometimes prescribed.

Are there natural treatments for sleep problems?

There are many natural treatments for everyday sleep problems. Reducing blue-light emitting screens, setting a regular bedtime, regular exercise, reducing caffeine and nicotine consumption, and keeping the bedroom dark and cool at night are all lifestyle changes that can help those who struggle with sleep but may not reach the level of an insomnia diagnosis.

What’s the difference between having trouble falling asleep and insomnia?

Life events, stress, and anxiety can lead to sleepless nights for everyone from time to time. To be diagnosed with insomnia, a patient must experience trouble falling asleep, trouble remaining asleep, waking up too early, or non-restorative sleep at least three nights per week for at least one month. Sleep problems affect one-third to one-half of the population, while chronic insomnia affects about 10 to 15 percent of people.