Hispanic and Latino Therapists in Passaic, NJ

Photo of Marlin Marte, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marlin Marte
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
If you're reading this, it’s likely you’re facing something significant in your life. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, flooded with sadness, struggling with past traumas, or wrestling with the daily struggles of life. Whatever it is, please know that you are not alone. My name is Marlin Marte and I am a dedicated clinician here to help you. Growing up as an Afro LatinX first-generation college student, I deeply understand the cultural struggles and barriers to accessing mental health support. This understanding drove me to be in this field and work with teens managing life challenges.
If you're reading this, it’s likely you’re facing something significant in your life. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, flooded with sadness, struggling with past traumas, or wrestling with the daily struggles of life. Whatever it is, please know that you are not alone. My name is Marlin Marte and I am a dedicated clinician here to help you. Growing up as an Afro LatinX first-generation college student, I deeply understand the cultural struggles and barriers to accessing mental health support. This understanding drove me to be in this field and work with teens managing life challenges.
(215) 709-7563 View (215) 709-7563
Photo of Diana Bravo, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Bravo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
An experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who treats each of her clients with care and compassion. Diana's proven track record of treating diverse populations such as children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups allows her to effectively utilize methods such as CBT, mindfulness, meditation, psychotherapy, expressive arts, play therapy and EMDR Therapy. Graduating with a Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, Diana obtained a special certificate in Aging.
An experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who treats each of her clients with care and compassion. Diana's proven track record of treating diverse populations such as children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups allows her to effectively utilize methods such as CBT, mindfulness, meditation, psychotherapy, expressive arts, play therapy and EMDR Therapy. Graduating with a Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, Diana obtained a special certificate in Aging.
(973) 755-0939 View (973) 755-0939
Photo of Laura Salcedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Salcedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
I grew up in an environment, in which mental health issues were rarely discussed, let alone addressed with professional help. "Why is hard for me to do things that for others appear simple? Is there something wrong with me?". These are the types of thoughts someone with anxiety, depression, and trauma can experience. How different things would have been in my life, had I understood the thoughts, feelings, and experiences I went through.
I grew up in an environment, in which mental health issues were rarely discussed, let alone addressed with professional help. "Why is hard for me to do things that for others appear simple? Is there something wrong with me?". These are the types of thoughts someone with anxiety, depression, and trauma can experience. How different things would have been in my life, had I understood the thoughts, feelings, and experiences I went through.
(908) 460-7463 View (908) 460-7463
Photo of Flordaliza Rodriguez, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Flordaliza Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055
Are you are struggling with anxiety, depression, facing a major life crisis, or feeling overwhelmed by problems? Navigating through tough times is the key to living a healthy and fulfilling life. I will help you identify and understand the issues, help create and implement a plan, and assist in reaching your goals. This will be accomplished by fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic alliance with you to help create healing and positive changes.
Are you are struggling with anxiety, depression, facing a major life crisis, or feeling overwhelmed by problems? Navigating through tough times is the key to living a healthy and fulfilling life. I will help you identify and understand the issues, help create and implement a plan, and assist in reaching your goals. This will be accomplished by fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic alliance with you to help create healing and positive changes.
(973) 221-8561 View (973) 221-8561
Photo of Mignolia Placencia, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mignolia Placencia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one experiencing feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, lack of motivation, isolation, anxiety, anger, or frustration? Talking to a therapist can help you develop a healthier and happier life style. I am committed to help you identify the true root of those barriers that are keeping you from feeling empowered, accomplished, and self-confident.
Are you or a loved one experiencing feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, lack of motivation, isolation, anxiety, anger, or frustration? Talking to a therapist can help you develop a healthier and happier life style. I am committed to help you identify the true root of those barriers that are keeping you from feeling empowered, accomplished, and self-confident.
(973) 221-9924 View (973) 221-9924
Photo of Yaranil Ferrer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yaranil Ferrer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055
Are you a new mom feeling overwhelmed by it all? Becoming a first time parent is life changing...and it can also be very difficult. It might feel like you're losing control of your life or struggling to feel like yourself again and asking for or accepting help is difficult for you. You might even struggle with the thought of returning back to work, or the opposite, not going back and making such drastic changes to your life. Guilt, shame and frustration are feelings you're all too familiar with.
Are you a new mom feeling overwhelmed by it all? Becoming a first time parent is life changing...and it can also be very difficult. It might feel like you're losing control of your life or struggling to feel like yourself again and asking for or accepting help is difficult for you. You might even struggle with the thought of returning back to work, or the opposite, not going back and making such drastic changes to your life. Guilt, shame and frustration are feelings you're all too familiar with.
(973) 756-3728 View (973) 756-3728
Photo of Aliris Alicea, EdD, LPC-NJ, LMHC-FL, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aliris Alicea
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-NJ, LMHC-FL, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Are you ready for a new beginning? / Estás listo para un nuevo comienzo? As a Mental Health Counselor, I believe in the potential of all my clients. Together, we will explore your strengths and opportunities and work to fulfill your goals. I have over 15 years of experience working with family interactions, reunification, life issues, mental health diagnoses, trauma, and anger management. My therapeutic focus is client-centered.
Are you ready for a new beginning? / Estás listo para un nuevo comienzo? As a Mental Health Counselor, I believe in the potential of all my clients. Together, we will explore your strengths and opportunities and work to fulfill your goals. I have over 15 years of experience working with family interactions, reunification, life issues, mental health diagnoses, trauma, and anger management. My therapeutic focus is client-centered.
(201) 762-0693 View (201) 762-0693
Photo of Jacqueline Rodriguez - Jacqueline Rodriguez: Adults and Teens, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Rodriguez: Adults and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055
I'm a Latina therapist who specializes in working with multicultural adults and teens (13-18 yrs). I assist with navigating depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, a loud inner critic, PTSD, and cycles of generational trauma. I will work hard to create a safe space where we can combine your unique abilities to adjust and heal with methods like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), inner critic, and inner child interventions. Let's work together to heal and thrive. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
I'm a Latina therapist who specializes in working with multicultural adults and teens (13-18 yrs). I assist with navigating depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, a loud inner critic, PTSD, and cycles of generational trauma. I will work hard to create a safe space where we can combine your unique abilities to adjust and heal with methods like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), inner critic, and inner child interventions. Let's work together to heal and thrive. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
(973) 520-5915 View (973) 520-5915
Photo of Justice Payne-Tyson - The Neighborhood Counseling Foundation, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Neighborhood Counseling Foundation
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
The neighborhood is nothing without people like you. That’s why it’s important for us to ensure your mental health is excellent. You’ve been working so hard to survive you haven’t had time to heal from previous trauma. Your teen is facing struggles that you never had to endure growing up. To top it off, the future gives you anxiety. We recognize your issues, have empathy, don’t judge, and we offer real solutions because we come from your neighborhood. You’ve been surviving long enough, it's time for you to thrive!
The neighborhood is nothing without people like you. That’s why it’s important for us to ensure your mental health is excellent. You’ve been working so hard to survive you haven’t had time to heal from previous trauma. Your teen is facing struggles that you never had to endure growing up. To top it off, the future gives you anxiety. We recognize your issues, have empathy, don’t judge, and we offer real solutions because we come from your neighborhood. You’ve been surviving long enough, it's time for you to thrive!
(973) 577-5509 View (973) 577-5509
Photo of Michaela Ambrosius, PhD, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Michaela Ambrosius
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055
Life has become an endless string of chores. You've gotten good at smiling on the outside, but internally you're just going through the motions. The loneliness, exhaustion, and lack of motivation are eating at you. Despite the well-meant advice from friends and family members you still feel stuck, unable to live your life fully. You know you desperately need to find meaning and purpose, but you barely know how you got here, much less how to begin fixing it. Symptoms of depression are often related to traumatic experiences.
Life has become an endless string of chores. You've gotten good at smiling on the outside, but internally you're just going through the motions. The loneliness, exhaustion, and lack of motivation are eating at you. Despite the well-meant advice from friends and family members you still feel stuck, unable to live your life fully. You know you desperately need to find meaning and purpose, but you barely know how you got here, much less how to begin fixing it. Symptoms of depression are often related to traumatic experiences.
(201) 884-2487 View (201) 884-2487
Photo of Michael Avila - Bright Minds Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bright Minds Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055
I am a firm believer in the Strengths Based Approach. That each individual, has the ability to overcome, learn, strive and succeed with the right support and resources. Over the past few years, I have dived into the scientific studies of Trauma & its historic impact on our bodies & mental health. I have also studied & practiced the science of meditation & its remarkable ability to alleviate anxiety & depression.
I am a firm believer in the Strengths Based Approach. That each individual, has the ability to overcome, learn, strive and succeed with the right support and resources. Over the past few years, I have dived into the scientific studies of Trauma & its historic impact on our bodies & mental health. I have also studied & practiced the science of meditation & its remarkable ability to alleviate anxiety & depression.
(201) 739-0280 View (201) 739-0280
Photo of Kendall Marquard - Kendall Marquard:  Kids, Teens, Couples, Adults, MS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendall Marquard: Kids, Teens, Couples, Adults
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055
I love to work with kids, teens, adults, and couples to support clients facing things like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief & loss as well as school and peer issues. With young people, I combine play therapy with parental collaboration to heal and grow. With adults, I focus on helping you feel safe, supported, and empowered in our sessions and we'll draw on techniques like CBT, DBT, and motivational work to help you gain insight and bring about change. In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to help couples feel understood and connected. See if I am taking new clients and book here: bit.ly/KendallM
I love to work with kids, teens, adults, and couples to support clients facing things like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief & loss as well as school and peer issues. With young people, I combine play therapy with parental collaboration to heal and grow. With adults, I focus on helping you feel safe, supported, and empowered in our sessions and we'll draw on techniques like CBT, DBT, and motivational work to help you gain insight and bring about change. In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to help couples feel understood and connected. See if I am taking new clients and book here: bit.ly/KendallM
(201) 890-7339 View (201) 890-7339
Photo of Margaret Bolanos - Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055
I am a queer Latina therapist and I love to support teens, couples, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, interpersonal violence, first-generation experiences, sexual orientation, sexual relationships, and gender identity. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused techniques with teens and adults and Gottman Method couples counseling. I care about creating a safe space to explore strengths and challenges, set goals, and walk through the healing journey. I can work in English or Spanish and offer in-person and telehealth sessions. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am a queer Latina therapist and I love to support teens, couples, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, interpersonal violence, first-generation experiences, sexual orientation, sexual relationships, and gender identity. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused techniques with teens and adults and Gottman Method couples counseling. I care about creating a safe space to explore strengths and challenges, set goals, and walk through the healing journey. I can work in English or Spanish and offer in-person and telehealth sessions. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 701-0967 View (862) 701-0967
Photo of Jaimie Lee Rehonic, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaimie Lee Rehonic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Are you someone whose life looks “good” from the outside, and yet it still feels like something is missing? You’ve accomplished a lot in life, but don’t feel the sense of fulfillment you expected. A big life change—maybe a breakup, new job, new marriage, change in family dynamic, or move—has highlighted the fact that you’re still not as happy or content as you want to be. Something is telling you that you need to make a shift ,even if you’re not quite sure what it is. You want to gain deeper insight into yourself & your past experiences, and you’re ready to change your “default setting” and start creating new patterns in your life.
Are you someone whose life looks “good” from the outside, and yet it still feels like something is missing? You’ve accomplished a lot in life, but don’t feel the sense of fulfillment you expected. A big life change—maybe a breakup, new job, new marriage, change in family dynamic, or move—has highlighted the fact that you’re still not as happy or content as you want to be. Something is telling you that you need to make a shift ,even if you’re not quite sure what it is. You want to gain deeper insight into yourself & your past experiences, and you’re ready to change your “default setting” and start creating new patterns in your life.
(551) 291-2307 View (551) 291-2307
Photo of Audrey Augustave - Audrey Augustave: Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy, MA, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audrey Augustave: Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Nobody could have prepared you for the pain of being in a high conflict or sexless marriage. You are either arguing all the time or avoid difficult topics altogether because you know that they will end in conflict. Your relationship feels tense like you are walking on eggshells. The resentment is building and you are beginning to ask yourself if this is the life you want anymore. You desire intimacy and connection but the emotional distance makes it feel impossible. Does this sound familiar? Visit my website or click here to book a free 20 min consult with me: cultivatetherapyteam.clientsecure.me/request/clinician
Nobody could have prepared you for the pain of being in a high conflict or sexless marriage. You are either arguing all the time or avoid difficult topics altogether because you know that they will end in conflict. Your relationship feels tense like you are walking on eggshells. The resentment is building and you are beginning to ask yourself if this is the life you want anymore. You desire intimacy and connection but the emotional distance makes it feel impossible. Does this sound familiar? Visit my website or click here to book a free 20 min consult with me: cultivatetherapyteam.clientsecure.me/request/clinician
(551) 465-7101 View (551) 465-7101
Photo of Chastity M. Biagiotti, MA, LPC, Counselor
Chastity M. Biagiotti
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent worry, sadness, or haunted by past trauma? Do you find it difficult to break free from negative thought patterns that impact your daily life? I specialize in utilizing evidence-based practices to address the unique needs of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. My sessions are carefully tailored to address the nuanced aspects of your experiences, fostering a healing journey that aligns with your unique needs. Through a blend of therapeutic modalities, we work together to uncover underlying factors and develop coping strategies to break through the barriers to recovery
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent worry, sadness, or haunted by past trauma? Do you find it difficult to break free from negative thought patterns that impact your daily life? I specialize in utilizing evidence-based practices to address the unique needs of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. My sessions are carefully tailored to address the nuanced aspects of your experiences, fostering a healing journey that aligns with your unique needs. Through a blend of therapeutic modalities, we work together to uncover underlying factors and develop coping strategies to break through the barriers to recovery
(201) 485-5537 View (201) 485-5537
Photo of Jesenia Lopez - Jesenia Lopez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jesenia Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have been working with adolescents and young adults for over a decade. I assist my clients in working through and overcoming anxiety/stress, depression, grief, vocational, familial, and relationship issues. I also work with clients who prefer to resolve, manage, and analyze life challenges from a faith based perspective. I work with clients in developing and implementing coping skills to deal with life's obstacles.
I have been working with adolescents and young adults for over a decade. I assist my clients in working through and overcoming anxiety/stress, depression, grief, vocational, familial, and relationship issues. I also work with clients who prefer to resolve, manage, and analyze life challenges from a faith based perspective. I work with clients in developing and implementing coping skills to deal with life's obstacles.
(973) 221-9029 View (973) 221-9029

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Luisa Molina Emdr Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Luisa Molina Emdr Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clifton, NJ 07011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a dedicated Latinx therapist with years of experience.
I understand that speaking to a stranger about your past, being vulnerable, and sharing your life story can feel scary. Congratulations for being brave and taking this first step to work on your emotional health and well-being. I want to empower you to learn more about mental health and explore how your history impacts your present and your future. I prioritize providing you with an empathetic, non-judgmental environment to explore your life story. I can help you deal with issues related to: anxiety, coping with chronic health conditions, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma, and PTSD.
I am a dedicated Latinx therapist with years of experience.
I understand that speaking to a stranger about your past, being vulnerable, and sharing your life story can feel scary. Congratulations for being brave and taking this first step to work on your emotional health and well-being. I want to empower you to learn more about mental health and explore how your history impacts your present and your future. I prioritize providing you with an empathetic, non-judgmental environment to explore your life story. I can help you deal with issues related to: anxiety, coping with chronic health conditions, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma, and PTSD.
(201) 335-8271 View (201) 335-8271
Photo of Liz Flores Farrell, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Flores Farrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07012
I am native Spanish-speaking, and I have experience in working with culturally specific issues related to the Latinx experience and Intergenerational Trauma experienced by first-generation individuals.
I invite you to explore from a place of curiosity, exploration, safety, and compassion. I work primarily with adults who grew up in traumatized households, and as adults are nourishing their childhood selves. My approach is collaborative, relational, and holistic. I integrate Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy, Attachment Theory, Parts Work, Yoga, and Somatic techniques for Mind/ Body/Spirit integration. I am experienced with the Psychospiritual and non-ordinary states of consciousness and can support you with Spiritual emergence. This is a stigma-free zone for people with alternate forms of Spiritual practice.
I am native Spanish-speaking, and I have experience in working with culturally specific issues related to the Latinx experience and Intergenerational Trauma experienced by first-generation individuals.
I invite you to explore from a place of curiosity, exploration, safety, and compassion. I work primarily with adults who grew up in traumatized households, and as adults are nourishing their childhood selves. My approach is collaborative, relational, and holistic. I integrate Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy, Attachment Theory, Parts Work, Yoga, and Somatic techniques for Mind/ Body/Spirit integration. I am experienced with the Psychospiritual and non-ordinary states of consciousness and can support you with Spiritual emergence. This is a stigma-free zone for people with alternate forms of Spiritual practice.
(973) 828-0108 View (973) 828-0108
Photo of May De La Cruz, MA-MHC, LAC, Counselor
May De La Cruz
Counselor, MA-MHC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604
I promote the need to reduce the stigma of therapy in the African American and Latinx community.
Allow me to meet you where you are in the process of “figuring it all out”. I am passionate about helping clients find themselves and see things from a better and different perspective. I want clients to understand their emotions and where they are coming from. I work with clients to apply healthy ways of coping with their stress, thoughts and feelings. I love to help clients decode the root of what causes the emotions, learn to take better care of themselves and get a better grip of life and make choices that suits their needs and soul. The ultimate goal is to live your best life despite the circumstances.
I promote the need to reduce the stigma of therapy in the African American and Latinx community.
Allow me to meet you where you are in the process of “figuring it all out”. I am passionate about helping clients find themselves and see things from a better and different perspective. I want clients to understand their emotions and where they are coming from. I work with clients to apply healthy ways of coping with their stress, thoughts and feelings. I love to help clients decode the root of what causes the emotions, learn to take better care of themselves and get a better grip of life and make choices that suits their needs and soul. The ultimate goal is to live your best life despite the circumstances.
(201) 771-8851 View (201) 771-8851

See more therapy options for Passaic

Hispanic and Latino Therapists

What makes a Hispanic and Latino therapist effective?

An effective Hispanic and Latino therapist can combine a culturally sensitive lens with proven therapies, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They may have an understanding of cultural attitudes to therapy, including potential stigma, and can help a client navigate those concerns. Some clients may also appreciate a therapist who is bilingual and is comfortable conversing with the client in both English and Spanish. Languages spoken are indicated on a therapist’s directory profile.

Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?

A culturally sensitive therapist is respectful and considerate of all groups, and may have specific expertise with individuals of a certain ethnicity. These considerations can help a client feel understood and can improve the therapeutic alliance. While some people think highlighting race and ethnicity could promote stereotypes and bias, most agree that knowledge about cultural differences enhances the alliance between therapist and client.

How can I recognize a therapist who has expertise working with Hispanic and Latino clients?

Successful therapy depends a great deal on the relationship between client and therapist. Start by asking the therapist about their overall approach to therapy. You may then wish to ask about the therapist’s educational background and any additional training in cultural sensitivity that they have undertaken.

How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Hispanic and Latino clients?

Ask a potential therapist whether they've worked with individuals who share this background or whether they’ve worked in these communities. If so, you may wish to ask them to elaborate on ways that they feel especially prepared to work with Hispanic and Latino clients. If they have not worked with such clients, they may know someone who has and be able to make a referral.

Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Hispanic and Latino therapists?

The directory of Hispanic and Latino therapists includes providers who have identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profiles, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists near you who identify as Hispanic and Latino is limited, the directory will also show therapists with comprehensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.