Our therapists provide couples & marriage counseling in Arlington, VA

Trish Earhart is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with a year of experience in the mental health field. She has worked for 8 years as a middle school counselor and assists children, adolescents, and families with academic, social, and emotional learning services. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, panic disorders, family and parenting challenges, grief, and trauma.

Trish received her Master's in Education in School Counseling/Clinical Counseling from Liberty University. Trish's clinical approaches include mindfulness techniques, systems/family methods, and solution-focused therapy techniques.

Trish believes counseling is a partnership between the client and the therapist to identify areas of need and create workable solutions. She wants to help build your strengths and problem-solve areas of concern by collaborating for optimal success. Reach out today!

Rebeccah McCully is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. She has spent time serving in school-based therapeutic programs, including group counseling, school-based outpatient services, and providing individual therapy. Rebeccah has a special heart for supporting women through life's toughest and most transformative moments. With extensive experience working with mothers facing postpartum depression, infertility, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), she offers empathetic care to help women navigate these challenges. Rebeccah is also skilled in addressing anxiety and depression, providing a safe and comforting space for individuals to explore their feelings and find effective coping strategies. She supports those experiencing infidelity and the pain of betrayal, helping them heal and move forward.

Rebeccah earned her Master’s in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. She uses a holistic and personalized approach to therapy, integrating techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and faith-based counseling.

Rebeccah's counseling style is characterized by empathy, respect, and collaboration, creating a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. She values cultural sensitivity and strives to ensure that everyone in her practice feels valued and understood. Rebeccah is dedicated to helping her clients find hope, healing, and resilience in their most challenging times.

Gwendolyn Fisher is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 3 years of experience helping children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar, oppositional defiance, trauma, PTSD, family relationships, and crisis stabilization.  

Gwendolyn earned her Bachelor's degree from Virginia Wesleyan University and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Gwendolyn utilizes collaborative, positive regard, solutions-focused, cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, mindfulness-based, and emotionally-focused approaches to meet clients where they are, and to promote a more meaningful life.

Gwendolyn seeks to empower clients by helping them meet the goals they desire in life. With her assistance, you'll begin recognizing that you are valuable while learning to live your best life—one day at a time. 

Dr. Jennifer James is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in supporting adults, couples, and families dealing with a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment issues, separation, divorce, co-parenting, narcissistic abuse, and major life transitions. Dr. James takes a holistic and person-centered approach, tailoring treatment to each client's needs and goals. She believes in building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust by creating a safe non-judgmental space to form the foundation for meaningful change and personal growth.

Dr. James received her Doctorate in Counseling and Psychological Studies from Regent University. She combines evidence-based practices with a warm, authentic presence and a faith-inspired approach. Dr. James uses cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques.

Taking the first step towards counseling is a courageous act. If you're ready to embark on a healing journey, Dr. James is here to support you! Together you will work towards creating the fulfilling life you deserve, honoring your unique experiences and aspirations.

Dawn Affeldt holds a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia. She has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a variety of settings who have experienced a range of life struggles and mental health concerns. Her areas of specialty include working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, couples’ issues, trauma, Autism, ADHD, and parenting issues. 

Dawn’s counseling approach is eclectic in that she uses what makes sense to meet her client’s needs. Predominantly, she uses cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies in addition to elements of motivational interviewing and mindfulness. She is dedicated to continuing her pursuit of knowledge in evidence-based practices that improve the lives of others; therefore, she also has specialized training in trauma and adoption preservation.

Dawn is passionate about helping others feel good about themselves and effectively manage through life’s trials and tribulations in order to lead a life of purpose, fulfillment, and joy. She looks forward to working with you!

Victoria “Vic” Tedrow is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with 5 years of experience. She specializes in trauma-informed care, identity exploration, and navigating life transitions. Vic is experienced in helping emerging adults and professionals manage anxiety, relationship struggles, OCD, and self-esteem challenges. Her ideal clients may feel stuck or disconnected from their values, finding themselves people pleasing, or stuck in self-criticism, and are ready to do the deep work of healing, creating healthier ways of being. Vic creates a compassionate and collaborative space for growth, clarity, and lasting change.

Vic earned a Master’s in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University. She integrates parts work, emotion‑focused modalities, family systems, and psychodynamic approaches to help clients experience change, untangle shame, rebuild self‑trust, and reconnect with their authentic voice.

Vic understands that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you’ve struggled to feel seen or loved. She offers a compassionate, real space where your needs truly matter. If you're ready for warmth, honesty, and an engaged partnership on your journey, she'd be delighted to get to know you.

Jenni Bivins is a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work with 3 years of experience. She is a dedicated and compassionate mental health clinician with a broad range of experience working in inpatient settings with adults facing substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, serious mental illness, and complex trauma. Her background includes supporting veterans as well as individuals with PTSD, chronic health conditions, physical disabilities, and intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.

Jenni earned a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She brings a trauma-informed and person-centered approach to meet her clients where they are in life. Jenni specializes in guiding clients toward healthier relationships by developing communication skills and establishing healthy personal boundaries.

With a strengths-based approach, Jenni is committed to empowering individuals on their path to healing and meaningful change. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply ready for change, Jenni invites you to take the next step and reach out. She can help you navigate your feelings and experiences.

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Toy Draine is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. With over 25 years of experience providing career and academic counseling to students, she specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, body positivity, career counseling, work stress, domestic abuse, family conflict, grief, marital and premarital concerns, narcissistic personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, PTSD, and more. Toy works with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan.

Toy holds a Master’s in Public Health from The George Washington University and a Master’s in Counseling and Student Personnel Services from Fordham University. She utilizes a strengths-based, evidence-informed approach to help clients build resilience, navigate challenges, and work toward personal growth and relational harmony.

Life's twists and turns can leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed, but you deserve the guidance and support to navigate them. Whether addressing mental health concerns or life transitions, Toy is dedicated to creating a compassionate, safe, and empowering environment for all clients. Take the first step towards a brighter future by reaching out today.

Brianna Lewis is a Resident in Counselling with 3 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in helping individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, marital and relationship problems, day-to-day stressors, and LGBTQ+-focused issues. As a lover of learning, Brianna enjoys having a diverse caseload where she can serve clients with different backgrounds. As a woman of color, Brianna is familiar with the need for a comfortable, safe place to be open and feel heard. She takes a person-centered approach to treatment and supports those she works with by focusing on their unique needs.

Brianna has her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wake Forest University. She tailors care to each client and often uses psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, integrative therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based techniques.

Brianna has experienced firsthand the challenges of not feeling seen or heard. She is eager to help others thrive regardless of race, sexual orientation, or background and looks forward to working with you!

Abel Juarez is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in depression, anger, anxiety, relationships, and addiction. In life, there will be obstacles and complications that can interrupt and affect how individuals cope with negative as well as positive outcomes. These outcomes can influence a person's thought process and have the ability to make them feel overwhelmed, powerless, and anxious. In counseling, these challenges can be handled in a manner in which individuals, couples, and families can address and begin to understand how such difficulties can result in the present situations.

"I am passionate about aiding those in difficult situations to focus on their strengths and build on them," says Abel. "In this, the counseling process becomes an understanding of several issues instead of focusing on the negative aspects that people find themselves in. Therefore, progress can move forward and the client and I can begin to address the issues at heart.

Furthermore, counseling sessions are a nonjudgmental arena in which the client is not thought of in a negative light. Being that, everyone experiences life and reacts to circumstances both negatively and positively. The extent of this reaction is where counseling starts to help those in need of a better understanding of how they conduct themselves."

Blakely Baker is a Resident in Social Work with 2 years of experience helping children, youth, adolescents, adults, and seniors with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, trauma, and substance use. Blakely has spent time working in crisis stabilization and school counseling.

Blakely received her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She uses a variety of clinical approaches that are targeted to client needs such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectic behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Blakely strives to meet her clients' needs by providing a welcoming, safe, and brave space to process emotions and experiences. She cares deeply about each client's success and works to highlight strengths to overcome challenges. Blakely is ready to help you achieve your goals and conquer your battles.

Benjii Maust is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in intensive in-home, community, outpatient, and residential settings. Benjii specializes in LGBTQIA affirmation, anger management, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and managing trauma-based behaviors. His ideal client struggles with acceptance, coping mechanisms, and expressing feelings healthily. Benjii has also supported clients living with chronic illnesses who require emotional support in managing their medical needs.

Benjii received his Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. He draws on techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Benjii utilizes art and play-based interventions with younger clients.

Benjii is committed to meeting you where you are in your journey and engaging with you to identify thoughts, patterns, and narratives working against you. If you are feeling stuck and looking for a change, reach out to Benjii today.

Elizabeth (Liz) Malin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in treating adults, teens, and families seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, workplace stressors, life transitions, and more.  

Liz earned her Master's degree in Counseling Education from Old Dominion University. She utilizes strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused approaches to therapy. She provides a safe place where you can work with her to form a collaborative relationship to feel heard, understood, and empowered.  

Liz seeks to establish a compassionate, caring environment as a foundation for you to create positive change while gaining further insight into patterns in your life that keep you from living your best life on a daily basis. Reach out today to take the first steps to establish further support and understanding by beginning your therapeutic process. 

Rossa Ridley is a Resident in Counseling and Qualified Mental Health Provider for adults in the state of Virginia. She has over 7 years of experience assisting adults that are seeking help with a variety of mental health issues, adjusting to life transitions, military-related issues, past incarceration, and relationship issues due to childhood trauma. 

Rossa completed her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from ECPI University, a Master of Art in Professional Counseling (Mental Health Counseling) from South University, and an advanced degree of a Master of Philosophy in Forensic Psychology. She utilizes collaborative, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, mindfulness-based, and holistic-focused approaches within the therapeutic relationship. Rossa is also a veteran of the military which gives her the unique ability to adapt to the changing needs of those seeking help in the various transitions adults may have to maneuver in their daily lives.

Rossa strives to establish a nurturing and empathetic relationship with you to assist you with using your strengths to work through situations and/or stressors so that you can reach your goals. She believes in creating a rapport with you so that you are taking a key role in living the life you desire.

Jesse Byers is a LPC in the state of Virginia. The client-centered and cognitive approach that Jesse uses has shown to be helpful for clients who are facing issues such as, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, addiction, relationship conflicts, infidelity, men's issues, impulse control, life changes, and premarital counseling. Jesse maintains that people are multifaceted and that spiritual, physical, physiological, emotional, and historical factors can play a role in whether we are living healthy, fulfilling lives. Jesse’s aim is to build trust and respect throughout the counseling relationship so that the experience is positive and clients have the support needed to thrive.

Jesse encourages a safe, therapeutic environment so that clients can explore root causes for hang-ups and begin to make conscious decisions for the positive changes that they seek. He provides feedback and gives clinical assessments throughout the counseling process so that you have all the information that you need to track progress and reach your goals.

Jesse believes that every person is made in God’s image, holds intrinsic value, and is worthy of mutual respect and love by others. Therefore, he encourages clients from a variety of backgrounds, beliefs, and cultural perspectives to reach out for counseling. He has experience using faith-integrated and psychology-based interventions for therapy.

Victoria Staten is a Supervisee in Social Work (SISW) with years of experience. She has experience practicing in a variety of clinical settings providing both inpatient and outpatient mental health services to both adolescents and adults. Victoria focuses on helping. She has experience treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, adjusting to life changes, challenges within relationships, and low self-esteem.

Victoria received her Master's degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Radford University. Victoria utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.

Victoria wants you to know that even though you are the only one who can take steps towards taking back control over your mental health, you do not have to take those steps alone. Schedule your session today.

Tami Light has over 25 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples experiencing crises. Her practice is based in authenticity, fostering a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. Tami is committed to guiding individuals toward their unique paths of healing, utilizing a kind and empathetic approach that acknowledges the mind-body-spirit connection. Tami earned her BSW at George Mason University and her MSE at the University of Southern California.

Tami offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach rooted in solution-focused, integrative, and holistic methodologies. Tami uses an integral approach that includes motivational interviewing, CBT, solution-focused therapy, and other modalities.

By embracing a holistic perspective, Tami empowers clients to explore their inner strengths and navigate life's challenges with resilience. Schedule an appointment with her today.

Jamie Jackson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 7 years of experience working with individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, veterans, and the LGBTQIA+ community. She believes in creating a space that supports true self-expression, leading to personal growth, transformation, and healing. Jamie meets clients where they are, helping them navigate their journey of self-discovery with empathy, collaboration, and respect for their unique stories.

Jamie earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University. She uses a therapeutic lens to help clients identify their needs with compassion, offering structure when helpful, and supporting autonomy through collaboration.

Jamie is personable and relatable, working with diverse backgrounds and cultures. She builds strong connections through communication, using an eclectic therapeutic approach to provide clients with a wide range of tools for their personal growth and success.

Stephanie Pitts-Riley is a Resident in Counseling with 4 years of experience. She is dedicated to helping others navigate life transitions, process grief or trauma, and explore their identity. Stephanie’s ideal client wants to collaborate to regain control of their narrative. Motivated by her own experience navigating mental health, Stephanie is committed to supporting children, adolescents, and adults on the journey toward embracing their authentic selves. She works with all populations, backgrounds, and diagnoses.

Stephanie holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She blends counseling theories and techniques to tailor interventions to meet each client's specific needs. Stephanie offers EMDR, traditional talk therapy, and children's therapies and is bilingual in English and Spanish.

With an extensive background in mental health services and social work, Stephanie effectively advocates for clients in a hands-on manner. She fosters accountability and personal growth by creating a space of acceptance, respect, and kindness. Reach out to start your path to healing and self-discovery!

Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and an experienced counselor with 6 years of outpatient counseling and assessment experience and 14 years of experience working with severely mentally ill individuals within a variety of community mental health agencies. Heather graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree focused on Professional Counseling. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples by approaching individuals uniquely while holding space and joining with individuals throughout their distinct healing journey as they work to live a more fulfilling life. Heather specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, major life transitions, men’s and women’s issues, life transitions and adjustments, peri and post-natal challenges, chronic pain, and chronic illnesses.

Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia and a member of the Virginia Counseling Association. Heather has demonstrated work experience within the mental health industry. Heather is skilled in crisis intervention, premarital and couples counseling, grief/loss, group therapy, behavioral health, training, and psychotherapy. She is passionate about partnering with individuals and investing time in the development of a strong therapeutic rapport. Heather’s passion, supportive style, and unique clinical approach to individuals fuel the treatment and quality of care you will receive. Heather utilizes multiple therapeutic person-centered treatment approaches including mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, prepare and enrich, and family systems therapy.

One of the most challenging and important aspects of wanting to start the therapeutic process is finding a counselor that you feel comfortable with! You have already made THE most important decision regarding your well-being and that is simply to just begin. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist, you will find new ways to solve problems, know and accept yourself, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. We all deserve a little help and support sometimes, and that’s what led you here! If you’re feeling like something is missing or needs to give, please reach out to Heather and schedule an appointment today. She would be honored to be of help.

Andrea Stephen is a Resident in Counseling in the State of Virginia who specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, relationship issues, grief, stress management, PTSD, Christian counseling, and academic/work issues. She is passionate about meeting others where they are and helping them to navigate through the challenges of life. 

Andrea is a graduate of Old Dominion University with an Ed. S in Counseling. She also holds a master’s degree in Human Services Counseling certified in Psychological First Aid and Collaborative Assessment Management of Suicidality (CAMS), Life Coaching, and Wellness Coaching.

Andrea has over 27 years of experience in a university setting where she had the opportunity to develop and provide Wellness Check-Ins sessions for undergraduate students during COVID-19. She has experience working on an interprofessional team, hospital setting, in-home counseling, crisis counseling, group, and individual counseling sessions. She was also a part of a team that launched an effort to decrease instances of violent episodes in a hospital setting utilizing a reliable assessment tool.

Andrea believes in utilizing a holistic approach incorporating techniques from person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness exercises, and faith-based counseling.

Bryan Hunsley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 5 years experience working alongside children, adolescents, adults, and couples who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, and crisis intervention. 

Bryan completed his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Religion and his Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling at Liberty University. He utilizes an eclectic approach toward counseling and incorporates techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy. 

Bryan enjoys providing support and encouragement through the counseling process. He seeks to engage with clients in a meaningful way to help them understand how to move forward in meeting their goals and continue their process of personal growth. 

Heather Habaque is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience. She specializes in assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with trauma or crisis. Heather also supports individuals experiencing depression, grief, family conflict, OCD, and life transitions. She has worked closely with neurodivergent clients to establish and successfully progress toward goals.

Heather has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. She uses cognitive behavior therapy, crisis theory, person-centered theory, brief solution-focused therapy, family systems therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.

Everyone’s issues, strengths, and needs in therapy are unique, as is the relationship between counselor and client. Finding the right person to assist with your needs and create a theoretically sound relationship may depend on finding someone willing to meet you where you are. Heather is ready to help you get started!

John McAnulty is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), Internationally Certified Alcohol/Drug Counselor (ICADC), and a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist (CGRS) in the state of Virginia who has 20 years experience partnering with adults and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, men’s issues, women's issues, grief, loss, bereavement, healthcare professionals and relationship issues. 

He completed his Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Florida State University University and received his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Troy State University. John utilizes relational, collaborative, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, solutions-focused, and emotionally-focused approaches to therapy. 

He always maintains the creativity, flexibility and awareness needed to assist every unique individual and couple. John bases his therapy upon the premise of person-centered therapy. John seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

Ethan Zehr is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5.5 years of experience in the mental health field. Ethan has worked as a therapeutic mentor, CASA volunteer, crisis stabilization clinician, outpatient clinician, and emergency services clinician in Virginia. He is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their challenges and increase overall functioning. Ethan specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, men's issues, relationship issues, major life transitions, and building mindfulness/coping skills, etc.

Ethan completed his Bachelor's in Religion at the University of Georgia and his Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Ethan utilizes multiple treatment approaches including person-centered techniques (Rogerian), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness.

As overwhelming and unpredictable as life can be, we can all use professional help at times. Ethan meets clients where they are and works to help clients improve their overall functioning. If you are ready, please schedule an appointment with Ethan.

Danielle Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Danielle specializes in trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and substance misuse.

Danielle completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, somatic breathing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy (SFT).

Our trauma impacts us everyday but doesn't have to. Healing is challenging but it is worth the effort. If you're ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today.

Dana Thompson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 6 years of experience helping adults of all ages to improve their wellbeing and enhance their quality of life. Dana offers individual or group therapy for those experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and grief. She specializes in working with people who are experiencing unexpected life transitions due to illness, injury, role identity change, separation/divorce, or other types of loss.

Dana completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Southern California. She has received specialized training for work with older adults and the military/veteran population, and is also a Certified Grief Counselor. Dana enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with clients, using a person-centered approach, as they pursue their goals and improve their wellbeing. She creatively integrates evidence-based intervention strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relational life therapy, cognitive processing therapy, problem-solving therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and mental health integrative medicine. Dana often incorporates positive psychology practices and mindfulness techniques as part of the holistic approach to the care she offers. She excels at providing clients with individualized therapeutic support as they find solutions and learn effective tools for coping with their unique stressors.

Everyone faces challenges in their lives, points when they feel that they need help in navigating their life’s journey. Dana feels privileged to have the opportunity to walk alongside clients, empowering them to choose their own path to follow as they make their way through the challenges they are experiencing. It is Dana’s hope that her clients won’t just survive a personal crisis or stressor, but that they will move past it and thrive!