Art Therapy in Maplewood, NJ

Photo of Rachel G. Couillard, LPC, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Rachel G. Couillard
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I'm an Art Therapist/Counselor who loves working with seasoned/emerging adults using the creative process to explore identity/life purpose.
Are you striving to live an authentic life? Trying to figure out who you are in the world? Doing the work of self-development is all about honoring one's true self. Discovering what lights you up when it comes to your interests, identity, and relationships. Maybe you need help figuring out what your next steps are and you're tired of not knowing the best way to move forward.
I'm an Art Therapist/Counselor who loves working with seasoned/emerging adults using the creative process to explore identity/life purpose.
Are you striving to live an authentic life? Trying to figure out who you are in the world? Doing the work of self-development is all about honoring one's true self. Discovering what lights you up when it comes to your interests, identity, and relationships. Maybe you need help figuring out what your next steps are and you're tired of not knowing the best way to move forward.
(862) 766-6551 View (862) 766-6551
Photo of Benjamin Davis, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT, Art Therapist
Benjamin Davis
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
​ His's last two publications include What Everyone Needs to Know: Gender (2020), and Art Therapy Practices for Resilient Youth (2019).
Ben Davis, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT (he/him) is a psychotherapist, educator and author, as well as the founder and director of Full Spectrum Creative Arts Therapy. Over the past two decades, Ben has focused on the unique and specific needs of transgender and non-binary individuals and families. He uses art therapy and verbal modalities with youth and adult clients, aiming to build personal agency and empower healing. His approach to therapy is warm, empathic and strength-based, and is informed by non-pathologizing treatment models, community-based research, creative arts modalities, systems theory and queer advocacy.
​ His's last two publications include What Everyone Needs to Know: Gender (2020), and Art Therapy Practices for Resilient Youth (2019).
Ben Davis, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT (he/him) is a psychotherapist, educator and author, as well as the founder and director of Full Spectrum Creative Arts Therapy. Over the past two decades, Ben has focused on the unique and specific needs of transgender and non-binary individuals and families. He uses art therapy and verbal modalities with youth and adult clients, aiming to build personal agency and empower healing. His approach to therapy is warm, empathic and strength-based, and is informed by non-pathologizing treatment models, community-based research, creative arts modalities, systems theory and queer advocacy.
(917) 525-5361 View (917) 525-5361
Photo of Pooja Bakri - Pooja Bakri Creative Arts Therapy LLC, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Pooja Bakri Creative Arts Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
The art therapy process can offer clients the opportunity to communicate and express themselves through nonverbal methods such as (but not limited to) painting, expressive writing and sensory based techniques.
I specialize in providing creative art therapy services to individuals of all ages and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their own unique path to happiness and wellbeing. Words alone often cannot express the emotions experienced for many people who are struggling to overcome trauma or challenges in life. By combining traditional psychotherapy with the creative process, art therapy can provide opportunities to explore behaviors, emotions, and experiences. Each session can provide a wonderful outlet to relieve anxiety and stress. No previous experience in art making is needed to benefit from this therapeutic method.
The art therapy process can offer clients the opportunity to communicate and express themselves through nonverbal methods such as (but not limited to) painting, expressive writing and sensory based techniques.
I specialize in providing creative art therapy services to individuals of all ages and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their own unique path to happiness and wellbeing. Words alone often cannot express the emotions experienced for many people who are struggling to overcome trauma or challenges in life. By combining traditional psychotherapy with the creative process, art therapy can provide opportunities to explore behaviors, emotions, and experiences. Each session can provide a wonderful outlet to relieve anxiety and stress. No previous experience in art making is needed to benefit from this therapeutic method.
(201) 429-0789 View (201) 429-0789
Photo of Dr. Stella N Diai - Dr. Stella Diai, EdD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Stella Diai
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
Is getting up every day becoming a struggle for you? Do you have feelings of being overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless? Or the feeling of a heavy weight in your chest? Shortness of breath? Are you worried that your relationships are not meaningful and that you do not fit in? Today, you are making one of your best decisions by seeking help.I am here to help and I have helped several like you. In my practice, I maintain a high level of openness with my clients having realized over the years that what matters most in therapy is the client /therapist relationship. I truly believe that it is the relationship that heals.
Is getting up every day becoming a struggle for you? Do you have feelings of being overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless? Or the feeling of a heavy weight in your chest? Shortness of breath? Are you worried that your relationships are not meaningful and that you do not fit in? Today, you are making one of your best decisions by seeking help.I am here to help and I have helped several like you. In my practice, I maintain a high level of openness with my clients having realized over the years that what matters most in therapy is the client /therapist relationship. I truly believe that it is the relationship that heals.
(201) 625-1184 View (201) 625-1184
Photo of Carolyn Davis-Cottle - Inner Image Counseling & Consulting, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Image Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Carolyn Davis-Cottle, M.Ed., MSW, LCSW, is the founder and principal of Inner Image Counseling and Consulting Services. Inner Image provides discrete, comprehensive mental health services and coaching for individuals, couples, families and groups.
Carolyn Davis-Cottle, M.Ed., MSW, LCSW, is the founder and principal of Inner Image Counseling and Consulting Services. Inner Image provides discrete, comprehensive mental health services and coaching for individuals, couples, families and groups.
(844) 611-2599 View (844) 611-2599
Photo of Meredith Carleton, PsyD, ATR, Psychologist
Meredith Carleton
Psychologist, PsyD, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
My Name is Dr. Meredith Carleton, and I am a Licensed Psychologist and Registered Creative Arts Therapist. I offer my clients a warm and welcoming environment that promotes connection and growth. My treatment style is very eclectic, integrating psychodynamic and family systems fundamentals with creative techniques and cognitive behavioral (CBT) interventions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mood issues, as well as trauma, ADHD, and behavioral concerns. I serve clients across the lifespan, with additional expertise in issues relevant to children, adolescents, emerging adults (age 18-25) and LGBTQ individuals.
My Name is Dr. Meredith Carleton, and I am a Licensed Psychologist and Registered Creative Arts Therapist. I offer my clients a warm and welcoming environment that promotes connection and growth. My treatment style is very eclectic, integrating psychodynamic and family systems fundamentals with creative techniques and cognitive behavioral (CBT) interventions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mood issues, as well as trauma, ADHD, and behavioral concerns. I serve clients across the lifespan, with additional expertise in issues relevant to children, adolescents, emerging adults (age 18-25) and LGBTQ individuals.
(973) 718-9845 View (973) 718-9845
Photo of Caitlin M Peterson, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin M Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified He art-Centered Hypnotherapist. I treat individuals and couples. My life's work is to support others as they cross the bridge from a place of self doubt, victimization and crisis to lives full of awareness, personal responsibility and universal compassion. You have the answers within to transform your life; I'm simply a guide on your journey back "home" to your intrinsically loving self. While you may already "know what your issues are", do you feel stuck to break through and move forward into the life you really want to be living? That's when we know it's time to go deeper.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified He art-Centered Hypnotherapist. I treat individuals and couples. My life's work is to support others as they cross the bridge from a place of self doubt, victimization and crisis to lives full of awareness, personal responsibility and universal compassion. You have the answers within to transform your life; I'm simply a guide on your journey back "home" to your intrinsically loving self. While you may already "know what your issues are", do you feel stuck to break through and move forward into the life you really want to be living? That's when we know it's time to go deeper.
(631) 440-4292 View (631) 440-4292
Photo of Ann Niles, PsyD, Psychologist
Ann Niles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Whether your reason for seeking therapy at this time is specific, or you're just feeling stuck or overwhelmed - I welcome the conversation. As a licensed clinical psychologist for 20+ years, I have worked with adult clients of all ages providing individual and couples therapy. I help clients from a diversity of backgrounds and lifestyles who are struggling with major transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief or loss, sexuality and gender identity, intimacy and communication, and parenting or care taking. Having worked in schools and with children in private for many years, I also offer parent consultation and recommendations.
Whether your reason for seeking therapy at this time is specific, or you're just feeling stuck or overwhelmed - I welcome the conversation. As a licensed clinical psychologist for 20+ years, I have worked with adult clients of all ages providing individual and couples therapy. I help clients from a diversity of backgrounds and lifestyles who are struggling with major transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief or loss, sexuality and gender identity, intimacy and communication, and parenting or care taking. Having worked in schools and with children in private for many years, I also offer parent consultation and recommendations.
(973) 564-1964 View (973) 564-1964
Photo of Jan Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
For many years, I have helped couples learn the communication components necessary for strong, resilient relationships. You'll learn to use your strengths effectively in your work and personal life while resolving your weaknesses. Using a tried and true approach to decision making, I will help you develop a plan to move you towards your goals. We will deconstruct the causes of stress, tension and painful upsetting moods in your life. Privacy, confidentiality and respect for your needs are fundamental to my work with you.
For many years, I have helped couples learn the communication components necessary for strong, resilient relationships. You'll learn to use your strengths effectively in your work and personal life while resolving your weaknesses. Using a tried and true approach to decision making, I will help you develop a plan to move you towards your goals. We will deconstruct the causes of stress, tension and painful upsetting moods in your life. Privacy, confidentiality and respect for your needs are fundamental to my work with you.
(973) 947-4839 View (973) 947-4839
Photo of Ronnie P Stern, MA,  , EdS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronnie P Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, , EdS
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Most of the families or individuals coming to me over the years have hit a rough patch of circumstances --- or a life cycle period that presents challenges for them.
Most of the families or individuals coming to me over the years have hit a rough patch of circumstances --- or a life cycle period that presents challenges for them.
(973) 218-6001 View (973) 218-6001
Photo of Priscilla Schmitt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Schmitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Are you ready to explore why you and/or your children / spouse / partner and family have been struggling to deal with life’s normal activities as well as new challenges and stressors? Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake-up each morning feeling anxious and overwhelmed? You have found a safe, friendly, and nonjudgmental environment where together we can st art a journey together to identify the challenges and then develop goals that you want to achieve in order to decrease negative stressors in your life. A variety of therapeutic tools and resources will be used to help you achieve your goals and truly live the life of your dreams.
Are you ready to explore why you and/or your children / spouse / partner and family have been struggling to deal with life’s normal activities as well as new challenges and stressors? Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake-up each morning feeling anxious and overwhelmed? You have found a safe, friendly, and nonjudgmental environment where together we can st art a journey together to identify the challenges and then develop goals that you want to achieve in order to decrease negative stressors in your life. A variety of therapeutic tools and resources will be used to help you achieve your goals and truly live the life of your dreams.
(201) 654-0670 View (201) 654-0670
Photo of Melissa Couples - Couples Therapy: Resolution Counseling Ctr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Couples Therapy: Resolution Counseling Ctr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I'm p art of the team at Resolution Counseling and we want to make it easy to st art therapy.
You want your committed relationship to work, you want to communicate more effectively, and you want to enjoy life with your spouse or partner. Our team of therapists specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling, an approach that distills decades of relationship research into practical strategies that promote healing and connection. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan that will equip you and your partner to move in a better direction. We are LGBTQ-affirming. View openings and request your first appointment: www.resolutioncc.com/team
I'm p art of the team at Resolution Counseling and we want to make it easy to st art therapy.
You want your committed relationship to work, you want to communicate more effectively, and you want to enjoy life with your spouse or partner. Our team of therapists specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling, an approach that distills decades of relationship research into practical strategies that promote healing and connection. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan that will equip you and your partner to move in a better direction. We are LGBTQ-affirming. View openings and request your first appointment: www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 793-8899 View (201) 793-8899
Photo of Nadine Bernard - Creative Arts Therapist, MA, MFA, BCC, RDT
Nadine Bernard - Creative Arts Therapist
MA, MFA, BCC, RDT
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Not accepting new clients
Through the use of conversation, writing, journaling, art, and drama exercises, clients find inner resources and the wisdom to move forward.
The creative arts can help us heal more deeply, powerfully, and quickly! I utilize a nurturing and effective approach to anxiety, depression, life transitions and trauma, through the use of talk therapy, drama, and creative arts approaches. Drawing from Narradrama and Positive Psychology techniques, I help clients disentangle themselves from the problematic narratives they tell about their lives, allowing for new, more empowering perspectives and solutions. The work tends to be shorter term therapy. I also work with clients to develop the parts of them that haven’t gotten enough attention or balance out roles within themselves.
Through the use of conversation, writing, journaling, art, and drama exercises, clients find inner resources and the wisdom to move forward.
The creative arts can help us heal more deeply, powerfully, and quickly! I utilize a nurturing and effective approach to anxiety, depression, life transitions and trauma, through the use of talk therapy, drama, and creative arts approaches. Drawing from Narradrama and Positive Psychology techniques, I help clients disentangle themselves from the problematic narratives they tell about their lives, allowing for new, more empowering perspectives and solutions. The work tends to be shorter term therapy. I also work with clients to develop the parts of them that haven’t gotten enough attention or balance out roles within themselves.
(917) 633-9611 View (917) 633-9611

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Summer Brown - Summer Brown; Couples, Adults, Teens, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Brown; Couples, Adults, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
I'm p art of the team at Resolution Counseling and we want to make it easy to st art therapy.
I love supporting young women of color, queer individuals and couples, and young professionals as they gain insight into their family’s generational patterns, heal from trauma, set boundaries, develop healthy sexual lives, and answer the question “who am I living for?” I welcome clients who identify as gender, sexual and racial minorities including non-monogamous and queer couples. I draw on things like art, music, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Method couples counseling, and mindfulness techniques. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I'm p art of the team at Resolution Counseling and we want to make it easy to st art therapy.
I love supporting young women of color, queer individuals and couples, and young professionals as they gain insight into their family’s generational patterns, heal from trauma, set boundaries, develop healthy sexual lives, and answer the question “who am I living for?” I welcome clients who identify as gender, sexual and racial minorities including non-monogamous and queer couples. I draw on things like art, music, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Method couples counseling, and mindfulness techniques. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(908) 495-7698 View (908) 495-7698
Photo of Ashley Wilson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
South Orange, NJ 07079  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I specialize in working with female clients facing challenges ranging from Stress, Anxiety, Divorce, Confidence, Relationships, Depression, Career Challenges, and other life changes. My clients come to me knowing they are ready for a change. I use CBT, mindfulness, dance movement therapy, motivational interviewing, spirituality, confidence building, ecotherapy, and art therapy. Every client is unique and I believe that the therapeutic experience should be as well. If you have been doubting your abilities I am here to empower you and listen.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with female clients facing challenges ranging from Stress, Anxiety, Divorce, Confidence, Relationships, Depression, Career Challenges, and other life changes. My clients come to me knowing they are ready for a change. I use CBT, mindfulness, dance movement therapy, motivational interviewing, spirituality, confidence building, ecotherapy, and art therapy. Every client is unique and I believe that the therapeutic experience should be as well. If you have been doubting your abilities I am here to empower you and listen.
(973) 510-0098 View (973) 510-0098
Photo of Cindy Hamilton, LPAT, LPC, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPAT, LPC, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Creating art feels good and is healing! You do not need an art background to reap the benefits of art therapy.
Hello, are you looking to make a change in some way...? My personal goal as a therapist is to help people express themselves and be their best. In order to do this, I utilize talk and the creative arts therapies. You may discover the mode of therapy that best suits you. You may find the grounding you need in your life, learn new coping skills, and see your ability to reach your full potential by making connections that you may not see on your own.
Creating art feels good and is healing! You do not need an art background to reap the benefits of art therapy.
Hello, are you looking to make a change in some way...? My personal goal as a therapist is to help people express themselves and be their best. In order to do this, I utilize talk and the creative arts therapies. You may discover the mode of therapy that best suits you. You may find the grounding you need in your life, learn new coping skills, and see your ability to reach your full potential by making connections that you may not see on your own.
(908) 838-4810 View (908) 838-4810
Photo of Jessica E. Heller, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, Art Therapist
Jessica E. Heller
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
My approach is diverse, including not only visual art making, but also writing, breath work, and traditional verbal therapies to support my clients' needs through the ebb and flow of life.
There are many ways to process experiences and feelings, not simply limited to talking. Integrating psychotherapy and creative expression can provide a refreshing, insightful, and effective experience in therapy. Some of my areas of focus include trauma, anxiety and depression, stress, loss and life transitions, as well as family and relationship difficulties, among others.
My approach is diverse, including not only visual art making, but also writing, breath work, and traditional verbal therapies to support my clients' needs through the ebb and flow of life.
There are many ways to process experiences and feelings, not simply limited to talking. Integrating psychotherapy and creative expression can provide a refreshing, insightful, and effective experience in therapy. Some of my areas of focus include trauma, anxiety and depression, stress, loss and life transitions, as well as family and relationship difficulties, among others.
(646) 679-7853 View (646) 679-7853
Barbara Holton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
(973) 797-9228 View (973) 797-9228
Photo of Chery M Jones, LAC, NCC, CSC, MA, Counselor
Chery M Jones
Counselor, LAC, NCC, CSC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07106
Life and Relationships can be overwhelming but it is possible to overcome this, make adjustments, and live a more fulfilling and rewarding life. Counseling is provided to individuals, families & students Online and In-Person. I help clients to develop healthy coping skills, thriving interpersonal relationships & emotional resiliency through mental health, skill acquisition and education. I have an eclectic approach combining CBT, DBT, REBT and Art Therapy Techniques.
Life and Relationships can be overwhelming but it is possible to overcome this, make adjustments, and live a more fulfilling and rewarding life. Counseling is provided to individuals, families & students Online and In-Person. I help clients to develop healthy coping skills, thriving interpersonal relationships & emotional resiliency through mental health, skill acquisition and education. I have an eclectic approach combining CBT, DBT, REBT and Art Therapy Techniques.
(973) 274-8439 View (973) 274-8439
Photo of Dawn Gilbert Ippoliti, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Dawn Gilbert Ippoliti
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Creating art is always your choice.
I am passionate about living life in the present moment and deeply value mindfulness as an accessible internal resource to help alleviate stress and anxiety. Many people I see are looking for an alternative to traditional talk therapy. My comprehensive training in psychotherapy and art therapy brings a diverse element to my sessions. I have been practicing for fifteen years with the majority of my professional experience focusing on children and families. My private practice includes supporting young people and professionals through life changes. Often, these individuals hope to find more direction and/or deeper meaning in their own experiences.
Creating art is always your choice.
I am passionate about living life in the present moment and deeply value mindfulness as an accessible internal resource to help alleviate stress and anxiety. Many people I see are looking for an alternative to traditional talk therapy. My comprehensive training in psychotherapy and art therapy brings a diverse element to my sessions. I have been practicing for fifteen years with the majority of my professional experience focusing on children and families. My private practice includes supporting young people and professionals through life changes. Often, these individuals hope to find more direction and/or deeper meaning in their own experiences.
(917) 512-6793 View (917) 512-6793

See more therapy options for Maplewood

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.