Photo of Stephanie Sulman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Sulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98023  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I focus on children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing a range of concerns including complex and developmental trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, shame, attachment issues, religious trauma/spiritual abuse, sexual orientation and gender identity development, and life transitions.
Not accepting clients - I am passionate about creating a safe, collaborative, and nonjudgemental environment where we work together to meet your goals! I help to illuminate how your family of origin, identities, personal experiences, trauma, and societal norms have interacted with one another to form deeply rooted beliefs and behavior patterns that may not be serving you. I believe you are the expert of your story and innately possess the resources to bring about positive shifts in your life. We will identify and build upon the strengths and supports you already have in order to create a life aligned with your most authentic self.
I focus on children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing a range of concerns including complex and developmental trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, shame, attachment issues, religious trauma/spiritual abuse, sexual orientation and gender identity development, and life transitions.
Not accepting clients - I am passionate about creating a safe, collaborative, and nonjudgemental environment where we work together to meet your goals! I help to illuminate how your family of origin, identities, personal experiences, trauma, and societal norms have interacted with one another to form deeply rooted beliefs and behavior patterns that may not be serving you. I believe you are the expert of your story and innately possess the resources to bring about positive shifts in your life. We will identify and build upon the strengths and supports you already have in order to create a life aligned with your most authentic self.
(360) 495-8238 View (360) 495-8238
Photo of Michell Brockman, LMHC, Counselor
Michell Brockman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has ​neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has ​neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
View
Photo of Ashley McGirt - Ashley McGirt Counseling Services LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley McGirt Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
Not accepting new clients
Have you been stressed from the current state of the world, covid, exacerbated racial trauma? Are you experiencing microagressions at work? Have you been in a funk that you just can't get out of? Have you experienced a recent loss? Or are you just looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation? If so you have found the right place. Perhaps old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective. Whatever the reason I would love to help guide you thru the path of self-discovery, awareness, and well-being. I can assist you in overcoming the challenges you are currently facing.
Have you been stressed from the current state of the world, covid, exacerbated racial trauma? Are you experiencing microagressions at work? Have you been in a funk that you just can't get out of? Have you experienced a recent loss? Or are you just looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation? If so you have found the right place. Perhaps old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective. Whatever the reason I would love to help guide you thru the path of self-discovery, awareness, and well-being. I can assist you in overcoming the challenges you are currently facing.
(253) 951-9990 View (253) 951-9990
Photo of Lindsay Arbanas, MSW, LICSW, LMHC, Counselor
Lindsay Arbanas
Counselor, MSW, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
I am passionate about being present with individuals as they experience disappointment, pain, despair, and joy in life and relationships. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe together we will discover the power and insight already within you. We undergo a process of examining your inner life, dreams, fantasies, and imagination to discover the inspiration that will allow you to live an authentic life. My approach is individually-focused and relationship-driven. Whatever challenges you are facing; that with a bit of goodwill and openness, much can be uncovered in a relatively short period of time.
I am passionate about being present with individuals as they experience disappointment, pain, despair, and joy in life and relationships. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe together we will discover the power and insight already within you. We undergo a process of examining your inner life, dreams, fantasies, and imagination to discover the inspiration that will allow you to live an authentic life. My approach is individually-focused and relationship-driven. Whatever challenges you are facing; that with a bit of goodwill and openness, much can be uncovered in a relatively short period of time.
(253) 271-4570 View (253) 271-4570

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamara Harrison, MA, LMHC, CMHS, ADHDCSP, Counselor
Tamara Harrison
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
You were never meant to feel scared of your own mind or be fearful of what today might bring. You want to be able to stop fighting so hard. You want relief from fear & panic; you want freedom from obsessive thoughts & rumination; you want to feel at home in your own body & mind again. Your intrusive thoughts & urges rob you of your values & goals, making your life much smaller than it should be. Whether it’s the thought spirals & rituals of OCD, the fear & avoidance of phobias & panic, the shame of skin-picking/hair-pulling, or the inner restlessness & self-loathing of ADHD: with a safe space & a few good tools, relief is possible.
You were never meant to feel scared of your own mind or be fearful of what today might bring. You want to be able to stop fighting so hard. You want relief from fear & panic; you want freedom from obsessive thoughts & rumination; you want to feel at home in your own body & mind again. Your intrusive thoughts & urges rob you of your values & goals, making your life much smaller than it should be. Whether it’s the thought spirals & rituals of OCD, the fear & avoidance of phobias & panic, the shame of skin-picking/hair-pulling, or the inner restlessness & self-loathing of ADHD: with a safe space & a few good tools, relief is possible.
(360) 526-8824 View (360) 526-8824
Photo of Benita Shene Weems - Holding Hope Therapy, MDiv, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Holding Hope Therapy
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031  (Online Only)
I also help Clients with OCD anxiety.
I want my clients to know they are not alone, and that healing and peace are possible. Each Client has incredible worth and value.​ I offer a safe and nonjudgmental setting and partnership where you can share your burdens and offload the weight on your shoulders. Whether your struggle is anxiety, depression, or life/relationship issues, I hope to help you get to the root of your concerns and empower you to overcome. Especially for Clients who have trauma from experiencing abuse tactics such as gaslighting, manipulation, and any violation of boundaries, I hope to validate your experience and help you claim your life back.
I also help Clients with OCD anxiety.
I want my clients to know they are not alone, and that healing and peace are possible. Each Client has incredible worth and value.​ I offer a safe and nonjudgmental setting and partnership where you can share your burdens and offload the weight on your shoulders. Whether your struggle is anxiety, depression, or life/relationship issues, I hope to help you get to the root of your concerns and empower you to overcome. Especially for Clients who have trauma from experiencing abuse tactics such as gaslighting, manipulation, and any violation of boundaries, I hope to validate your experience and help you claim your life back.
(253) 766-5089 View (253) 766-5089
Photo of Kristi Neubauer, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Kristi Neubauer
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Tapps, WA 98391  (Online Only)
You feel overwhelmed and stuck…with disordered eating, self-criticism, traumatic memories, or ADHD paralysis. You’re someone who is insightful and motivated but still find yourself trapped in harmful patterns, feeling out of control and unsure about what to do next. Your life might feel like it's slipping away from your envisioned path with losses in relationships, opportunities, and joy overshadowed by these struggles. But you’re ready for something different. You’re ready to uncover and heal from old wounds. Most of all, you’re ready to reclaim your power from harmful patterns. Together we can work toward this!
You feel overwhelmed and stuck…with disordered eating, self-criticism, traumatic memories, or ADHD paralysis. You’re someone who is insightful and motivated but still find yourself trapped in harmful patterns, feeling out of control and unsure about what to do next. Your life might feel like it's slipping away from your envisioned path with losses in relationships, opportunities, and joy overshadowed by these struggles. But you’re ready for something different. You’re ready to uncover and heal from old wounds. Most of all, you’re ready to reclaim your power from harmful patterns. Together we can work toward this!
(206) 485-3483 View (206) 485-3483
Photo of Anthony Mucci, MA, LMCH, LPC
Anthony Mucci
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMCH, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR Therapy and Christian (integrated) counseling. I have experience in helping clients with Trauma (acute/Chronic/complex), stress and anxiety, Narcissistic Abuse, Premarital/marital/relationship issues, chronic pain, depression, and most mental health conditions. I work with my clients and believe in authenticity and transparency to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Learning coping strategies and skills to manage life stressors is great, but my goal ultimately is that you actually heal and grow in the abundant life.
I specialize in EMDR Therapy and Christian (integrated) counseling. I have experience in helping clients with Trauma (acute/Chronic/complex), stress and anxiety, Narcissistic Abuse, Premarital/marital/relationship issues, chronic pain, depression, and most mental health conditions. I work with my clients and believe in authenticity and transparency to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Learning coping strategies and skills to manage life stressors is great, but my goal ultimately is that you actually heal and grow in the abundant life.
(253) 242-9849 View (253) 242-9849
Photo of Niashay Whitaker, LMHC , MHP, Counselor
Niashay Whitaker
Counselor, LMHC , MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98148
I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.
I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.
(206) 203-9492 View (206) 203-9492
Photo of Lauren McKee, MS, LMHC, CN, RYT, Counselor
Lauren McKee
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN, RYT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401
Do you struggle with an inner voice that tells you that you are failing or not enough? Is it difficult to identify what you want? Do you consistently prioritize others over yourself? We live in a world that bombards us with messages about who has value and who does not. We are told “just try harder” and things will change. My clients come to therapy because despite a commitment to this hustle for worth, they remain dissatisfied. They feel stuck and resonate with the idea of putting their life on hold until they lose the weight, get the promotion, etc. Many say they are ready for something different but aren't sure where to start.
Do you struggle with an inner voice that tells you that you are failing or not enough? Is it difficult to identify what you want? Do you consistently prioritize others over yourself? We live in a world that bombards us with messages about who has value and who does not. We are told “just try harder” and things will change. My clients come to therapy because despite a commitment to this hustle for worth, they remain dissatisfied. They feel stuck and resonate with the idea of putting their life on hold until they lose the weight, get the promotion, etc. Many say they are ready for something different but aren't sure where to start.
(253) 525-2925 View (253) 525-2925
Photo of Fern DeMello, MS, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Fern DeMello
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
What do you fear? What do you long for? I have found that the answers to these questions often overlap, which can make us feel stuck, lost or out of control. You may feel like you've tried everything. You may be telling yourself that you are wrong or defective. Blaming ourselves for our pain is so normal and human. Know that here, you are not too broken. I view therapy as a no-expiration invitation to return to ourselves and a space where we reach for what has felt untouchable. I believe we can only work to the extent that you feel you can trust me. Because of this, we will give focused time to our relationship dynamic.
What do you fear? What do you long for? I have found that the answers to these questions often overlap, which can make us feel stuck, lost or out of control. You may feel like you've tried everything. You may be telling yourself that you are wrong or defective. Blaming ourselves for our pain is so normal and human. Know that here, you are not too broken. I view therapy as a no-expiration invitation to return to ourselves and a space where we reach for what has felt untouchable. I believe we can only work to the extent that you feel you can trust me. Because of this, we will give focused time to our relationship dynamic.
(253) 559-0086 View (253) 559-0086
Photo of Julian Chavez-Gamez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julian Chavez-Gamez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seatac, WA 98158  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Individual therapy with me always begins by learning how to check-in with our nervous system to ensure we are creating a neutral and/or safe space that's required to begin to take a deeper look at what's underneath some of the challenging situations you may be responding to. Therapy is an insight-oriented process where we'll improve our ability to self-regulate and connect with others. I work from a polyvagal informed approach which is also known as the science of safety and connection. It's through this approach that we will begin to understand how your nervous system responds to cues of safety and danger.
Individual therapy with me always begins by learning how to check-in with our nervous system to ensure we are creating a neutral and/or safe space that's required to begin to take a deeper look at what's underneath some of the challenging situations you may be responding to. Therapy is an insight-oriented process where we'll improve our ability to self-regulate and connect with others. I work from a polyvagal informed approach which is also known as the science of safety and connection. It's through this approach that we will begin to understand how your nervous system responds to cues of safety and danger.
(425) 243-0749 View (425) 243-0749
Photo of Kaitlyn Widmer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn Widmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I operate from a feminist anti-oppressive stance. I am a trauma-informed therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients work through current stressors, relationship challenges, and past trauma. I enjoy working with many client populations and have experience supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, individuals who are grieving, and folx who are navigating challenging or toxic familial relationships. I particularly enjoy working with clients who have childhood and complex trauma and are navigating challenging relationships with their family of origin.
I operate from a feminist anti-oppressive stance. I am a trauma-informed therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients work through current stressors, relationship challenges, and past trauma. I enjoy working with many client populations and have experience supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, individuals who are grieving, and folx who are navigating challenging or toxic familial relationships. I particularly enjoy working with clients who have childhood and complex trauma and are navigating challenging relationships with their family of origin.
(253) 455-7867 View (253) 455-7867
Photo of Abbey Ganz, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Abbey Ganz
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98404  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I'm Abbey! I am so glad you are here! My goal is to empower you to show up as you are and leave each session feeling valued, heard and trusted. I am here to help you process and bring clarity and growth to the areas you would like to work on. I build a welcoming and safe environment for you in order to provide the best care possible. Each and every one of us have varied life experiences which means my style is not one-size-fits-all. I spend time getting to know you in order to come up with goals together that are individualized to your needs, including varying therapy techniques that are the right fit for you.
Hi, I'm Abbey! I am so glad you are here! My goal is to empower you to show up as you are and leave each session feeling valued, heard and trusted. I am here to help you process and bring clarity and growth to the areas you would like to work on. I build a welcoming and safe environment for you in order to provide the best care possible. Each and every one of us have varied life experiences which means my style is not one-size-fits-all. I spend time getting to know you in order to come up with goals together that are individualized to your needs, including varying therapy techniques that are the right fit for you.
(253) 993-1878 View (253) 993-1878
Photo of Chris G Perry, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chris G Perry
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401
Are you overwhelmed by life’s struggles, trauma, relationship or attachment issues? Maybe you have been wondering about autism or ADHD as a something you are experiencing? Do you have questions about gender or sexuality, or a general need to examine where you exist within an increasingly challenging society and how you are impacted by it? These are all issues that I enjoy navigating with my clients as we find a new, securely attached, unmasked, and comfortable way of living freely. If you are hurting and do not know where to start I can help. If you feel that you are at the end, we can find a new beginning.
Are you overwhelmed by life’s struggles, trauma, relationship or attachment issues? Maybe you have been wondering about autism or ADHD as a something you are experiencing? Do you have questions about gender or sexuality, or a general need to examine where you exist within an increasingly challenging society and how you are impacted by it? These are all issues that I enjoy navigating with my clients as we find a new, securely attached, unmasked, and comfortable way of living freely. If you are hurting and do not know where to start I can help. If you feel that you are at the end, we can find a new beginning.
(206) 312-6272 View (206) 312-6272
Photo of Olivia White, LMHC, CCTP-II, CCATP, Counselor
Olivia White
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP-II, CCATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Have major parts of you been overshadowed by the stress of just trying to survive and get by? Have the expectations and demands from others to be a certain way left no room for self-discovery, acceptance and expansion? Painful past experiences, childhood trauma, and oppressive environments have taught many of us to silence our needs, prioritize others, not trust ourselves, and bury our true feelings. You are on the path to the next phase in your journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I know that even in light of the inner drive to reclaim authenticity, experiences from our past can linger and get in the way.
Have major parts of you been overshadowed by the stress of just trying to survive and get by? Have the expectations and demands from others to be a certain way left no room for self-discovery, acceptance and expansion? Painful past experiences, childhood trauma, and oppressive environments have taught many of us to silence our needs, prioritize others, not trust ourselves, and bury our true feelings. You are on the path to the next phase in your journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I know that even in light of the inner drive to reclaim authenticity, experiences from our past can linger and get in the way.
(509) 253-1455 View (509) 253-1455
Photo of Karyn Andriesen, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Karyn Andriesen
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life we all need a “companion on the journey,” someone to partner with us and help make sense of our experience, ease our pain, and support our goals. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe environment where individuals can identify their strengths, recognize unhelpful patterns, and live into their goals. Working from an integrative, client-centered approach, I seek to support individuals wherever they are on their journey and my approach is holistic, collaborative, and non-judgmental. I value cultural humility and look forward to working with people of all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life.
Sometimes in life we all need a “companion on the journey,” someone to partner with us and help make sense of our experience, ease our pain, and support our goals. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe environment where individuals can identify their strengths, recognize unhelpful patterns, and live into their goals. Working from an integrative, client-centered approach, I seek to support individuals wherever they are on their journey and my approach is holistic, collaborative, and non-judgmental. I value cultural humility and look forward to working with people of all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life.
(206) 752-3471 View (206) 752-3471
Photo of Paley Burlin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Paley Burlin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98405  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping men who struggle with isolation, feelings of anxiety and depression, blocks to intimacy, addiction to pornography, lack of male friends, a feeling of being lost or without a deep sense of purpose, or feeling numb and disconnected from life. As men, we are socialized to keep everything to ourselves, which makes it hard for us to admit when we're lonely and hurting and in need of support. Many of us grew up with fathers that were either absent, abusive, or detached from us emotionally, leaving us without a respectable model of masculinity and without much inspiration or direction in our lives.
I specialize in helping men who struggle with isolation, feelings of anxiety and depression, blocks to intimacy, addiction to pornography, lack of male friends, a feeling of being lost or without a deep sense of purpose, or feeling numb and disconnected from life. As men, we are socialized to keep everything to ourselves, which makes it hard for us to admit when we're lonely and hurting and in need of support. Many of us grew up with fathers that were either absent, abusive, or detached from us emotionally, leaving us without a respectable model of masculinity and without much inspiration or direction in our lives.
(206) 208-7344 View (206) 208-7344
Photo of Racheal Stuth Reichel - Racheal Stuth Reichel LICSW, LICSW, MHP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Racheal Stuth Reichel LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, MSW
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life we find ourselves dealing with issues we never imagined would happen. We struggle in relationships or we struggle at work. Sometimes we don't know why we're feeling the way we are- and that's ok too. Throughout life we face a variety of struggles psychotherapy helps you know you're not alone. My goal is to help you find hope, your direction to authenticity and healing beyond the struggles you're holding.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves dealing with issues we never imagined would happen. We struggle in relationships or we struggle at work. Sometimes we don't know why we're feeling the way we are- and that's ok too. Throughout life we face a variety of struggles psychotherapy helps you know you're not alone. My goal is to help you find hope, your direction to authenticity and healing beyond the struggles you're holding.
(253) 338-8788 View (253) 338-8788
Photo of Martin A Phillips, PhD, CATSM, ABS, LPC Intern
Martin A Phillips
LPC Intern, PhD, CATSM, ABS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98443  (Online Only)
No matter who you are, where you are from, or what your story, you are believed, valued, and cared for. A safe space to laugh, cry, be heard, and understood. Gentle nurturing care. All are welcome. Holistic integrative therapy.
No matter who you are, where you are from, or what your story, you are believed, valued, and cared for. A safe space to laugh, cry, be heard, and understood. Gentle nurturing care. All are welcome. Holistic integrative therapy.
(253) 321-1943 View (253) 321-1943

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.