Life Coaching Therapists in Flourtown, PA

Photo of Susan Nagy, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Nagy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
Finding the balance in your life and having peace is within your reach.
I get it. You've been wanting to make a change for a while, but it's exhausting just to think about taking on another thing. It's a chore just to manage all the day to day stuff of work and family and making everything run smoothly; much less eating healthy, going to the gym, working on relationships, AND going to regular therapy sessions! It's a spiral that's so easy to get lost in and it's hard to find a foothold to steady yourself and find a way out. Therapy CAN offer that foothold; some guidance to help figure out how to feel peaceful and content with your life, and have the energy to do things that make you feel fulfilled.
Finding the balance in your life and having peace is within your reach.
I get it. You've been wanting to make a change for a while, but it's exhausting just to think about taking on another thing. It's a chore just to manage all the day to day stuff of work and family and making everything run smoothly; much less eating healthy, going to the gym, working on relationships, AND going to regular therapy sessions! It's a spiral that's so easy to get lost in and it's hard to find a foothold to steady yourself and find a way out. Therapy CAN offer that foothold; some guidance to help figure out how to feel peaceful and content with your life, and have the energy to do things that make you feel fulfilled.
(215) 585-2941 View (215) 585-2941
Photo of Laurie Baker. Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Baker. Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, afraid, hopeless or stuck? I provide caring, supportive psychotherapy for adults, couples and adolescents age 16 and up. I help my clients to manage depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, low self-esteem, mood swings, relationships, grief, trauma and anger. I teach many skills to improve coping, communication and behavior.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, afraid, hopeless or stuck? I provide caring, supportive psychotherapy for adults, couples and adolescents age 16 and up. I help my clients to manage depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, low self-esteem, mood swings, relationships, grief, trauma and anger. I teach many skills to improve coping, communication and behavior.
(267) 274-4036 View (267) 274-4036
Photo of Sally Cranney, MA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sally Cranney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
(610) 756-2806 View (610) 756-2806
Photo of Therese M Daniels - Therese M. Daniels, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therese M. Daniels, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
I have immediate openings in PA! It is not uncommon for people to arrive at a place in life feeling imbalanced, stuck, and sometimes defeated. In my practice, I work collaboratively with my client's to move forward through these difficult times. I utilize an integrative mindful approach to address the person as a whole and to promote balance, healing, and wellness. I believe in meeting each individual where they are and jointly creating a plan that will best meet their needs and assist them in digging in to let the inner beauty shine through.
I have immediate openings in PA! It is not uncommon for people to arrive at a place in life feeling imbalanced, stuck, and sometimes defeated. In my practice, I work collaboratively with my client's to move forward through these difficult times. I utilize an integrative mindful approach to address the person as a whole and to promote balance, healing, and wellness. I believe in meeting each individual where they are and jointly creating a plan that will best meet their needs and assist them in digging in to let the inner beauty shine through.
(215) 608-1396 View (215) 608-1396
Photo of Joseph L Nines - Joseph L. Nines, LLC, MA, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joseph L. Nines, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
It is a healthy and beneficial way for you to find healing for difficulties and to enrich your life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Educator. I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from LaSalle University and a Doctorate in Human Sexuality from Widener University. I maintain a private practice in Flourtown, Pennsylvania. I teach Clinical Counseling and Human Sexuality as an Adjunct Faculty member in LaSalle University's Graduate Psychology Program. I provide educational and clinical interventions in sexuality for parents, teachers and churches throughout the Philadelphia area.
It is a healthy and beneficial way for you to find healing for difficulties and to enrich your life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Educator. I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from LaSalle University and a Doctorate in Human Sexuality from Widener University. I maintain a private practice in Flourtown, Pennsylvania. I teach Clinical Counseling and Human Sexuality as an Adjunct Faculty member in LaSalle University's Graduate Psychology Program. I provide educational and clinical interventions in sexuality for parents, teachers and churches throughout the Philadelphia area.
(215) 826-3179 View (215) 826-3179
Photo of Marion Rudin Frank, EdD, MA, Psychologist
Marion Rudin Frank
Psychologist, EdD, MA
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
I also offer critical incident stress debriefings and executive coaching.
As a licensed psychologist, board certified clinical hypnotherapist and medical psychotherapist, I have been in private practice for 30 years in center city Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill,Pa. I am primarily Jungian, feminist, and cognitive/behavioral in orientation and use a blend of whatever suits the person and situation. My specialties include relationships, depression and anxiety/panic, self-esteem. trauma, and life transitions. I am widely published, formerly on staff at the Belmont Center and at Hahnemann and Temple Universities.The goal is to diminish negative symptoms and patterns, facilitate individuation, find your path and personal meaning in life, at work and in relationships.
I also offer critical incident stress debriefings and executive coaching.
As a licensed psychologist, board certified clinical hypnotherapist and medical psychotherapist, I have been in private practice for 30 years in center city Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill,Pa. I am primarily Jungian, feminist, and cognitive/behavioral in orientation and use a blend of whatever suits the person and situation. My specialties include relationships, depression and anxiety/panic, self-esteem. trauma, and life transitions. I am widely published, formerly on staff at the Belmont Center and at Hahnemann and Temple Universities.The goal is to diminish negative symptoms and patterns, facilitate individuation, find your path and personal meaning in life, at work and in relationships.
(267) 348-4075 View (267) 348-4075
Photo of Jeuri Yoel German - Jeuri German Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeuri German Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
Starting therapy can feel tough, no matter where you're at in life.
Are you looking to feel happier and more energetic, and get back into your usual routine of activities and hanging out with friends? Or making school, socializing, and eating more enjoyable again? Maybe you've been feeling tense or irritable; we'll work on calming those feelings and improving how you get along with family and friends. For families, we'll work on solving problems that might be causing tension, like children’s behaviors or parents wanting to be on the same page. We'll work on improving your communication and supporting each other. Overall, the goal is to help life feel a bit easier and happier for you and your family.
Starting therapy can feel tough, no matter where you're at in life.
Are you looking to feel happier and more energetic, and get back into your usual routine of activities and hanging out with friends? Or making school, socializing, and eating more enjoyable again? Maybe you've been feeling tense or irritable; we'll work on calming those feelings and improving how you get along with family and friends. For families, we'll work on solving problems that might be causing tension, like children’s behaviors or parents wanting to be on the same page. We'll work on improving your communication and supporting each other. Overall, the goal is to help life feel a bit easier and happier for you and your family.
(267) 508-7114 View (267) 508-7114
Photo of Nichole M Robinson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole M Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
You deserve to live life with less triggers, less worry and sadness, and less hopelessness.
I am a trauma therapist with 10 years experience. I can help you learn how to cope with the pain, confusion, anxiety, fear, anger and depression people with trauma often experience. You may not be sure how to resolve trauma and PTSD or where to start. Sometimes when we’ve been through difficult experiences, life becomes so overwhelming that we need help figuring it all out. I can help. I can help through support, education about trauma, and meaningful treatment that helps you feel better.
You deserve to live life with less triggers, less worry and sadness, and less hopelessness.
I am a trauma therapist with 10 years experience. I can help you learn how to cope with the pain, confusion, anxiety, fear, anger and depression people with trauma often experience. You may not be sure how to resolve trauma and PTSD or where to start. Sometimes when we’ve been through difficult experiences, life becomes so overwhelming that we need help figuring it all out. I can help. I can help through support, education about trauma, and meaningful treatment that helps you feel better.
(267) 517-8308 View (267) 517-8308
Photo of Michael R. Bridges, PhD, Psychologist
Michael R. Bridges
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Michael R. Bridges is a licensed psychologist and former associate professor & director of psychological services at Temple University. He was also an assistant professor & director of an inpatient Dialectical Behavior Unit at UNC-Chapel Hill & an adjunct professor in Family & Couples Therapy at Jefferson University. He has done research & published in professional journals on how people resolve painful issues in therapy related to attachment injuries in their past such as betrayals in relationships and childhood trauma. He is sought out by other psychotherapists for supervision and consultation. He is also the therapist that other therapists turn to for therapy.
Dr. Michael R. Bridges is a licensed psychologist and former associate professor & director of psychological services at Temple University. He was also an assistant professor & director of an inpatient Dialectical Behavior Unit at UNC-Chapel Hill & an adjunct professor in Family & Couples Therapy at Jefferson University. He has done research & published in professional journals on how people resolve painful issues in therapy related to attachment injuries in their past such as betrayals in relationships and childhood trauma. He is sought out by other psychotherapists for supervision and consultation. He is also the therapist that other therapists turn to for therapy.
(215) 515-4475 View (215) 515-4475

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nadine Rosechild Sullivan, PhD, CHT, Rev, Counselor
Nadine Rosechild Sullivan
Counselor, PhD, CHT, Rev
Verified Verified
Wyndmoor, PA 19038  (Online Only)
As a sociologist, I help you analyze your relationships and life experience, and coach you through strategies that create desired change.
Would you like to understand yourself, or your relationships, better? Do you have a need for clear direction? insight on your journey? Would you like to change your life? attract the people, knowledge and things you need? accomplish your dreams? experience greater happiness? get rid of annoying habits and fears? live with less stress? Let me help you bloom to your full potential. I do not label or use a "medical model." As an interfaith minister, I provide holistic spiritual counseling, and/or hypnotherapy or intuitive guidance, that is respectful of your spiritual (or non-spiritual) perspective.
As a sociologist, I help you analyze your relationships and life experience, and coach you through strategies that create desired change.
Would you like to understand yourself, or your relationships, better? Do you have a need for clear direction? insight on your journey? Would you like to change your life? attract the people, knowledge and things you need? accomplish your dreams? experience greater happiness? get rid of annoying habits and fears? live with less stress? Let me help you bloom to your full potential. I do not label or use a "medical model." As an interfaith minister, I provide holistic spiritual counseling, and/or hypnotherapy or intuitive guidance, that is respectful of your spiritual (or non-spiritual) perspective.
(215) 352-3947 View (215) 352-3947
Photo of Dr. Stanley E Stocker III - Journey to Healing, LLC, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Journey to Healing, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Life is a journey and can be very difficult to travel, especially when traveling alone and battling things like grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other forms of mental distress. As a marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about joining my clients in their journey to wellness. I believe in blending clinical theories with Biblical truths, as well as cultivating a safe, judgement-free environment for my clients.
Life is a journey and can be very difficult to travel, especially when traveling alone and battling things like grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other forms of mental distress. As a marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about joining my clients in their journey to wellness. I believe in blending clinical theories with Biblical truths, as well as cultivating a safe, judgement-free environment for my clients.
(267) 458-7289 View (267) 458-7289
Photo of Emily Browning, LCSW, ACHP-SW, MDiv, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW, MDiv, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
You can find meaning and balance in your life, even when the demands feel overwhelming.
You spend so much energy taking care of others, it's hard to think about making time for yourself. Feeling stressed or sad has started to feel like your "normal" instead of just a bad day. You feel anxious or angry sometimes, and you're not sure why. Maybe life has started to feel like a chore – you’re doing everything you can and it still doesn’t feel like enough. It's harder to connect with the parts of life that used to be meaningful, and that can feel really lonely.
You can find meaning and balance in your life, even when the demands feel overwhelming.
You spend so much energy taking care of others, it's hard to think about making time for yourself. Feeling stressed or sad has started to feel like your "normal" instead of just a bad day. You feel anxious or angry sometimes, and you're not sure why. Maybe life has started to feel like a chore – you’re doing everything you can and it still doesn’t feel like enough. It's harder to connect with the parts of life that used to be meaningful, and that can feel really lonely.
(267) 365-3625 View (267) 365-3625
Photo of Arlene Morningstar, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arlene Morningstar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
I work with individuals, couples, and families to manage life transitions, build closer relationships, and balance family, work, and personal time demands.
Are you having trouble making a decision? Are you feeling that you are not being heard? With over 25 years of professional experience in individual, marital and family therapy, I bring competent, compassionate care to people of all ages. My specialties include parenting, anxiety and stress management, eating disorders, and relationship counseling.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to manage life transitions, build closer relationships, and balance family, work, and personal time demands.
Are you having trouble making a decision? Are you feeling that you are not being heard? With over 25 years of professional experience in individual, marital and family therapy, I bring competent, compassionate care to people of all ages. My specialties include parenting, anxiety and stress management, eating disorders, and relationship counseling.
(215) 631-3201 View (215) 631-3201
Photo of Megan Toroni, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Toroni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
You have recognized a need for change so I commend you and welcome you to my profile. My personal philosophy is the most important skill in life is the ability to ask for help. Although viewed as a weakness, asking for help generates success. The most successful people in life have a team of people that help with their decision making. The president has a cabinet, the CEO of a fortune 500 company has a board of directors. I am here to be that person to help create change and a positive outlook or whatever it is you are looking for.
You have recognized a need for change so I commend you and welcome you to my profile. My personal philosophy is the most important skill in life is the ability to ask for help. Although viewed as a weakness, asking for help generates success. The most successful people in life have a team of people that help with their decision making. The president has a cabinet, the CEO of a fortune 500 company has a board of directors. I am here to be that person to help create change and a positive outlook or whatever it is you are looking for.
(267) 754-7978 View (267) 754-7978
Photo of Emily Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wyndmoor, PA 19038
My clients describe me as warm, compassionate and supportive. Our first steps will be creating a space where you feel safe. The therapy process is then guided by your needs and preferences. Together we will explore the issues that have brought you to therapy. Difficulties in life are normal. You are not alone. And you will have me by your side as we figure out what feels right for you, and what are the best ways for you to achieve your goals.
My clients describe me as warm, compassionate and supportive. Our first steps will be creating a space where you feel safe. The therapy process is then guided by your needs and preferences. Together we will explore the issues that have brought you to therapy. Difficulties in life are normal. You are not alone. And you will have me by your side as we figure out what feels right for you, and what are the best ways for you to achieve your goals.
(267) 619-7391 View (267) 619-7391
Photo of Emily Masko, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Masko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Whether you are looking to overcome past abuse, find more hope and happiness in your life or learn more about stress relief, I look forward to joining you on your path to healing.
I am taking new clients! I can generally schedule new clients for a session within 2 business days. I offer both telehealth sessions as well as outdoor, nature therapy sessions in which we can talk on a park bench or walk along a trail. If you have been struggling to find a therapist, please reach out. Working together, we will explore who you are and create your vision of a healthy, happy life.
Whether you are looking to overcome past abuse, find more hope and happiness in your life or learn more about stress relief, I look forward to joining you on your path to healing.
I am taking new clients! I can generally schedule new clients for a session within 2 business days. I offer both telehealth sessions as well as outdoor, nature therapy sessions in which we can talk on a park bench or walk along a trail. If you have been struggling to find a therapist, please reach out. Working together, we will explore who you are and create your vision of a healthy, happy life.
(215) 437-3849 View (215) 437-3849
Photo of Allison Middleton, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Middleton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
(215) 910-4073 View (215) 910-4073
Photo of Lauren G Kahn, MSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren G Kahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Life is a journey filled with transitions- some clear and some challenging, while others quietly shape our paths. With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through pivotal moments. Transitions can be both unsettling and enlightening, offering us opportunities for profound personal growth. Together, we will explore these moments, uncovering the unique tools that resonate best for you to repair, rebuild, and renew your connections with yourself and others.
Life is a journey filled with transitions- some clear and some challenging, while others quietly shape our paths. With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through pivotal moments. Transitions can be both unsettling and enlightening, offering us opportunities for profound personal growth. Together, we will explore these moments, uncovering the unique tools that resonate best for you to repair, rebuild, and renew your connections with yourself and others.
(215) 839-1239 View (215) 839-1239
Photo of Reinhild Draeger-Muenke, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Reinhild Draeger-Muenke
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Whether we'll use psychodynamically oriented or cognitive behavioral talk therapy, sand play or art, guided imagery, hypnotherapy or mindfulness meditation, there are many therapeutic ways to ameliorate challenging symptoms, to explore underlying issues, and to integrate new, constructive ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving into your daily life.
You may have considered finding a therapist for a while, wondering whether it's worth the risk. Are you struggling with physical symptoms, feelings or behaviors you don't particularly like, but can't seem to control? Have you found it difficult to make changes in your life, although you have tried many times on your own? Are you dissatisfied with how your relationships are going? Perhaps you wish you could be a more effective parent? Or maybe you already know there is "stuff" you haven't wanted to touch on your own, but it's not going away......., and you are ready to invest in healing whatever hurts? Then therapy can help.
Whether we'll use psychodynamically oriented or cognitive behavioral talk therapy, sand play or art, guided imagery, hypnotherapy or mindfulness meditation, there are many therapeutic ways to ameliorate challenging symptoms, to explore underlying issues, and to integrate new, constructive ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving into your daily life.
You may have considered finding a therapist for a while, wondering whether it's worth the risk. Are you struggling with physical symptoms, feelings or behaviors you don't particularly like, but can't seem to control? Have you found it difficult to make changes in your life, although you have tried many times on your own? Are you dissatisfied with how your relationships are going? Perhaps you wish you could be a more effective parent? Or maybe you already know there is "stuff" you haven't wanted to touch on your own, but it's not going away......., and you are ready to invest in healing whatever hurts? Then therapy can help.
(484) 265-9786 View (484) 265-9786
Photo of Mandy Schaller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy Schaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
You don’t have to suffer in silence nor do you have to spend a lot of time or money to create positive changes in your life! Whether you're looking for long term support in changing behavioral patterns or short term treatment to build skills- I'm happy to schedule a free phone consult to answer any questions.
If you’re looking for support in shedding limiting beliefs & old patterns that may be blocking your success in work, school, finances, or relationships— I’ve had 20 years experience, working in human behavior, health and healing to create lasting, positive changes. I equally enjoy the art & science of being a therapist; I integrate brain health, nutrition, family system history as well as art & music into the treatment process. My professional history includes individual, family & group therapy in anxiety, depression & trauma. I allow clients to set goals and a pace that feels useful and individualized.
You don’t have to suffer in silence nor do you have to spend a lot of time or money to create positive changes in your life! Whether you're looking for long term support in changing behavioral patterns or short term treatment to build skills- I'm happy to schedule a free phone consult to answer any questions.
If you’re looking for support in shedding limiting beliefs & old patterns that may be blocking your success in work, school, finances, or relationships— I’ve had 20 years experience, working in human behavior, health and healing to create lasting, positive changes. I equally enjoy the art & science of being a therapist; I integrate brain health, nutrition, family system history as well as art & music into the treatment process. My professional history includes individual, family & group therapy in anxiety, depression & trauma. I allow clients to set goals and a pace that feels useful and individualized.
(215) 883-8803 View (215) 883-8803
Life Coaching Therapists

What can I expect from life coaching?

Clients and coaches will typically start by identifying the problem area(s) that the client hopes to address—then, the coach will help the client brainstorm potential solutions and explore concrete techniques to help the client attain their goals. Coaching is typically short-term and focused on finding solutions in the here and now, rather than exploring a client’s past. In addition to strategies aimed at the client’s specific concerns, coaches may encourage general stress management techniques such as meditation.

Can a life coach help treat anxiety?

Because the majority of life coaches are not licensed clinicians, they are not qualified to diagnose or treat anxiety. Anyone struggling with anxiety or another mental health condition should seek help from a licensed mental health practitioner. However, some coaching clients who struggle with subclinical anxiety report that working with their coach on other problems—such as career dissatisfaction or unhealthy habits—has a positive effect on their anxiety.

Can life coaching be done online?

Yes. While life coaching often happens in person, many coaches conduct sessions over the phone or via online platforms such as Zoom or Skype. Because life coaches are not subject to local licensing regulations in the same way that therapists are, they are able to see clients who live in other locations.

How long does life coaching last?

Life coaching tends to be a shorter-term process than therapy, though it does not always unfold over a specific period of time and is instead based on the coach’s or the client’s preferences. Coaching often takes place over three to 12 months but may be shorter or longer if necessary.