Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Toledo, OH

"As a social worker of color, I don't just treat symptoms; I witness strength, survival, and the courage it takes for our communities to heal."

I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting children, adults, and families navigating trauma, substance use concerns, anger management, violence, and homelessness. My work focuses on serving women and people of color while creating a safe, supportive space where clients can process challenges, build resilience, and work toward meaningful and lasting change.

I earned my master’s degree in social work from The Ohio State University. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. My professional background includes working in a variety of settings and providing both short-term and long-term therapeutic support.

My goal is to provide compassionate, high-quality mental health care while helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. I will work collaboratively with you to identify your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and create a treatment plan that supports your healing, growth, and overall well-being.

"As one who has experienced trauma of her own, a mother, and a therapist of six years, I am here to help guide through life's difficulties, listen to the good, the bad, and watch you accomplish the goals we establish together at the beginning of our therapeutic process. "

My name is Whitney Saunders and my professional background is social work and outpatient therapy. I have a Master's degree in social work as well as my Independent Social Work License. I have worked with children and families in some capacity since 2015. Since receiving my Master's degree in 2019, I have continued to serve children and families in outpatient therapy settings. I have worked with clients from the ages of five to 50 who have experienced or are experiencing PTSD, depression, and anxiety. In many of these cases, clients are seeking assistance with crisis stabilization or minimization of other mental health symptoms. 

Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and brief solution-focused therapy, I have been able to assist many clients in achieving their goals of crisis stabilization, harm reduction, and overall minimization of mental health symptoms. 

The relationship you have with your therapist is what makes therapy successful. With that, I place emphasis on the rapport-building phase of treatment. The most important thing to remember is you are in control of your therapeutic process—I am here to SUPPORT and GUIDE.

"As a disabled genderqueer person, I approach life struggles from multiple directions, asking "What changes do I need to make to solve this problem?" and, at the same time, "What changes does society need to make to solve this problem?"

Sophia Fisher is a licensed independent social worker (LISW) with 9 years of experience in the mental health field. As a therapist, they help individuals process and make meaning from past experiences while working toward significant and hopeful change. She specializes in supporting adults and adolescents in navigating struggles like life transitions, identity development, trauma, depression, anxiety, and systemic stress.

Sophia completed a combined Master of Social Work/Master of Public Health at The Ohio State University. They are trained in the use of EMDR therapy (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) to process and heal past trauma. She has also completed Star Behavioral Health Provider training, which teaches civilian clinicians to better serve military-connected individuals.

As a nerdy, disabled, genderqueer person from a religious background, Sophia is acutely aware of the complexities of navigating a world that isn’t designed for you. They use this awareness to make space for all kinds of people, especially those whose mental health is not prioritized by our society. Sophia’s approach is collaborative and flexible, helping clients understand how past experiences shape present patterns while building practical skills for healing, resilience, and personal growth.

You are the expert on your own life, and your therapist’s role is to support you in reaching the goals that matter most to you. Sophia would love to help you develop the tools to move forward in your life with clarity and confidence. If you are ready to begin, reach out to schedule an appointment.

"As an African American cis-gender female who used to be a silent sufferer, I understand the difficulty, fear, and stigma of trusting a stranger to help you explore your feelings."

Donisha Austin is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who has over 3 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and seniors. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, family and relationship conflict, and chronic stress.

Donisha received her Bachelor's degree from Ohio State University in Human Development and Family Studies. She received her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Cincinnati. Her professional and life experience have equipped her with the appropriate tools to support and guide others through various challenges and transitions. Donisha utilizes many treatment approaches including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT ), humanistic approaches, existential therapy (ET), person-centered therapy (PCT), multicultural therapy, solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and much more.

Choosing therapy can be challenging, but Donisha believes there is power in stepping into your challenge zone. Trusting a stranger with your most vulnerable pieces can be scary. There is power in being emotional or squishy as Donisha likes to call it. Donisha provides a calm and safe space where she encourages you to be courageous. Schedule an appointment with her today!

"Getting help and admitting we need help is not always easy but the fact that you are here right now and you are reading this means you have decided to take action to have your concerns addressed and that is signifiant!"

Theo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Theo's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.

Theo completed his Master of Nursing Degree (MSN) at The University of Toledo. Theo possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. In addition to medication management, he incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, motivational interviewing, and person-centered techniques into treatment.

Now is as good a time as ever to have your mental health concerns addressed! Theo is confident that he would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with him today!

"I am a present-focused, client centered therapist with experience treating anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, and OCD."

Melissa Elbert is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over seven years of experience working with clients in their communities as well as in office. She is passionate about assisting clients meet their goals for treatment. She has experience working with adults and couples. Melissa has post graduate training in CBT, DBT, anxiety disorders, trauma-informed care, ADHD, and CPT. Melissa specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders including alcohol use and opioid use.

Melissa completed her MSSA at the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University. Melissa utilizes multiple approaches to therapy in order to find the right fit for each individual client. Some of these approaches include CBT, DBT, CPT, and trauma-informed approaches.

Every person has their own special needs. Melissa is a client-centered therapist that will work with you and your goals to determine which approach best suits your needs. You are the most important person in each session. If you are ready to make a commitment to yourself for better mental health, schedule with her today!

"As someone who has experienced personal trauma and loss, I have an authentic understanding of how painful life circumstances impact us and how building new life skills can empower us once again. "

I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) with 18 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and older adults through life’s challenges. I work with individuals navigating life transitions, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and physical or mental health concerns. My goal is to create a supportive space where clients feel understood while working toward improved well-being and quality of life.

I earned my master's degree in social work from Cleveland State University. My approach is holistic and client-centered, recognizing the strong connection between mental and physical health. I focus on helping clients build practical skills, strengthen self-awareness, and develop tools that support personal growth and lasting change.

Starting therapy or beginning again with a new therapist can feel overwhelming. I strive to meet you exactly where you are, offering empathy, understanding, and a judgment-free environment where you can speak openly. We will identify your goals and work toward restoring balance, rebuilding what feels lost, and helping you move forward with confidence.

"As a woman in her mid-30s, I understand the pressures that come with different life stages and coping with the changes we face as we live and grow."

Becky Caione is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She is enthusiastic about helping adults and couples address the challenges they are facing and feel more positive and fulfilled. Becky specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, end-of-life/hospice, coping skills, relationship issues, and major life transitions. She has worked with a large variety of diverse client populations. She is a married woman with experience in navigating life's changes, pressures, and stresses, which also enables her to offer the support her clients are seeking.

Becky completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the California University of Pennsylvania. Becky utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused and faith-based therapies.

Everyone has a unique journey. Becky is confident that she can support you as you cope with your individual struggles and gain some new perspective. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today!

"As one who understands the extreme impact trauma and loss has on individuals, I have an authentic understanding both personally and professionally of tools equipped to assist in structuring new coping mechanisms and life skills to address these concerns."

Greetings, my name is Kiera E. Graham. I am a dual licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) and marriage, family, and couples therapist (LMFT) certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), with over 10 years in the behavioral health field. I earned my Bachelor of Psychology in 2016 and my dual Master of Science in Education with a concentration in therapeutic counseling in 2019. I have served populations struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, couples concerns, life stressors, and addiction across varying ages, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The methods I use stem from clinical modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, which challenges intrusive thoughts and limiting beliefs that impair mental health. I specialize in providing empathic listening, coping skills, and life tools to help improve counterintuitive belief systems and encourage clients to restructure core attributes causing emotional disruptions. 

As a heartfelt dual licensed therapist, my mantra is to inspire—you must first aspire to uplift others. To do this effectively, you must also have the desire to empower, lead, serve, and heal. I am excited to start this empowering healing journey of recovery with you and all clients I serve. 

"Having personally experienced the transformative aspects of combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, I strive to assist my clients through challenging experiences by helping them understand the power of the mind/body connection."

Katherine Pixley is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 13 years of experience. She works with individuals on the entire life spectrum, engaging them in building needed confidence and skills to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, parenting, and life transitions, along with other mental, emotional, and physical health diagnoses. Katherine supports and guides clients in connecting the impact of their experiences with external behaviors.

Katherine graduated from Antioch University New England and holds a Master’s in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling. She combines traditional approaches such as person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy with dance/movement therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems.

Building trust in therapy is key to accepting where you are and committing to move in a new direction. Katherine seeks to create a non-judgmental space for this experience to grow and strengthen. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a more hopeful future, schedule an appointment with Katherine today!

Lauren A. Carsten is an independently licensed clinical mental health counselor (PCC) and earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Prior to moving back to her native Ohio, she completed BAs in both psychology and behavioral science (an interdisciplinary degree encompassing human behavior through sociology, anthropology and psychology) from San Jose State University in California. She holds competencies treatment of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and grief, and has experience and training using trauma-informed practices. She also has extensive experience working with multicultural populations as well as the LGBTQQIAA population and has given trainings in these areas with a focus on sensitivity and accommodations to treatment approaches. She has also completed the certificate program for Substance Abuse Counseling from the University of Cincinnati and is able to integrate that training into current treatment when needed. She is adept at the treatment of individual clients, couples, as well as families and groups, and welcomes clients to incorporate other people into their sessions if needed and appropriate. Her style is generally relaxed and casual and ascribes to the Gestalt model of client interactions but does pull from several different approaches to find the more efficacious approach for each client individually.

Kelly Turle is an Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in Northeast Ohio who received her Master’s degree in Social Science Administration (MSSA) from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Kelly has over 20 years experience working as a School Counselor and over 7 years experience counseling and coaching adults, mainly women, on issues regarding self-doubt, anxiety, physical wellness, and life transitions. Kelly’s counseling approach is to provide a safe and non judgemental place to share one’s concerns, worries and story. She utilizes strength based and solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. She utilizes holistic approaches and draws from immense experience in the Law of Attraction philosophies. Kelly approaches each client’s issues with openness, compassion and knowledge. She is an expert at building relationships and assisting people to reduce stress, overcome hardships and find some direction and clarity in their lives. She thrives on helping people feel listened to, accepted and comforted. Kelly collaborates with each client to establish goals and needs to give them a better quality of life.

"Above all, I prioritize the importance of being both seen and heard."

Ryan Fernandez is both a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with 5 years of experience as a clinician. He is passionate about empowering diverse individuals, couples, and groups to accomplish their mental health goals. Ryan specializes in self-esteem issues, relationship issues, grief, spirituality, substance-related and addictive disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, personality disorders, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders. Ryan has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University.

Having focused on substance use disorders in graduate school, Ryan recognizes the importance of meeting his clients where they are and treats them holistically using evidence-based techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, rational emotive therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and existential therapy.

We can’t change what we do not acknowledge. Ryan doesn’t believe in making judgments, moralizing one's decision-making, or condemning one's behaviors. Counseling is like going to the gym: you ultimately get out what you put in. He wishes to guide you in learning more about yourself. If you are ready to change your life, schedule an appointment with Ryan!

"As a clinician that has worked with children, teens and adults, in the midst of extreme stress and crises, I have the experience to join you in your struggle and help you claim a more grounded and meaningful life."

Rebeccah Tacelosky is licensed in Ohio with 30 years of professional work experience. She has experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and depression. She believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She is able to tailor your dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Rebeccah is here to support & empower you in that journey. She holds a Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University.

Rebeccah has professional experience providing support to clients at hospitals, schools, the courts, and in their homes. She has worked in different states and internationally. She considers it a privilege to connect with people, often at the lowest point of their lives, and takes this role very seriously.

Life seems to be more challenging than ever. Sharing struggles in a safe place can help you move from confusion to clarity. In everything she does, Rebeccah brings a deep sense of compassion, warmth, and humor that can immediately make you believe things are going to get better. If you are ready to feel better, schedule an appointment with her today.

"While I don't claim to have all the answers, I want to walk beside you on your journey, whether that journey is through the past, through the current social stressors that are scary for many of us, or through hopes for your future."

Jen started out working with adjudicated youth in a day program, and then spent ten years working with both youth and adults in an outpatient mental health agency. During those ten years, Jen worked with people of many different ages, races, social groups, and gender identities. This experience was invaluable as she learned that everyone is different, has different needs, and has more potential than they may realize.

In addition to years of volunteering in her community since she was a teenager, Jen has a Bachelor of Psychology and a Master of Marriage and Family Counseling, both from Wright State University. Jen interned, worked, taught, and later managed at an agency that provided therapy, day programs, group therapy, case management, and substance use treatment for people of all ages.

Jen brings her years of experience and her education to the session to partner with her clients. While she is the professional in the session, she sees her client as the expert in their own life. Jen and her client work together to explore and identify the problem, what they want to do about it, and how to work toward that outcome. Some people come to therapy struggling with shame or embarrassment, and need to connect with their therapist before they can open up about the really hard stuff. Jen encourages her clients to set the pace, and empowers them to speak up if they need something different. Schedule your intake appointment to start your partnership.

"Therapy is weird, uncomfortable, unfamiliar, AND it is an investment in your emotions and your time. I get it, and I am here to help you figure it out with support and down to earth feedback."

Nan Little is a Licensed Clinical Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She loves working with young adults, adults, and couples in untangling the challenges of living a rewarding life. Her specialties include working with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, complex trauma, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, boundaries, life transitions, and relationship issues.

Nan completed her Master of Science in Education, Community Counseling focus at Capital University. Nan's wealth of experience, coupled with her intuitive and curious nature, offers clients a unique opportunity for growth. She turns clients' insights and "a-ha" moments born of collaborative work into actionable, memorable behavioral and emotional changes.

Life is hard. Therapy can feel strange. We are all doing our best to figure it out. Let Nan help you untangle, move forward, and live (not just survive). You will definitely laugh, most likely cry, and feel really messy at points, and it is absolutely okay. If you would like to try and figure it out, reach out and get scheduled.

"As an older adult woman, I understand the unique issues of navigating life's journey."

Peggy Myers is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 42 years of experience in behavioral health and wellness. She has worked with young children, adolescents, families, and older adults in times of crisis, grief, and adaptability. Peggy specializes in treating anxiety, depression, stress, infidelity, trauma, and women’s issues. She understands how life can challenge us and the unique perspective that women may present in addressing obstacles. Peggy appreciates the impact of trauma and embraces the mission of identifying its impact on those that she works with.

Peggy received her Master of Social Work from Ohio State University. She is well-versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, attachment-based therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and end-of-life/hospice care.

Peggy identifies barriers, encourages goal development, and utilizes active listening to build a sense of empathy with all clients. She will hear your stories and work with you to find the best way forward. If you are ready to get started, reach out to Peggy today!

"I combine evidence-based treatment with genuine human connection, helping you find balance through science and empathy."

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience supporting adults through their mental health journeys. My background in nursing has shaped my compassionate, holistic approach to care, and I strive to see and support the whole person, not just the diagnosis. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy to help clients achieve balance, stability, and confidence as they navigate life’s challenges.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Maryville University. My approach integrates evidence-based treatments with therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual’s goals and needs. I believe in building trust and collaboration, empowering clients to take an active role in their healing.

I’m passionate about helping clients find relief, understanding, and renewed hope. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and encouraged to take steps toward lasting mental and emotional wellness.

"The key to health and happiness is balance: mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually; trauma makes it hard to know what balance is and how to build it, and I'm here to help."

Ashley Taylor is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio with 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults seeking help with a variety of issues including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, and life transitions. She believes in an approach that is warm, authentic, and collaborative, and that every situation, individual, and couple is unique. 

She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wright State University in Dayton, OH. Ashley utilizes an eclectic blend of therapy modalities, ranging from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), eye-movement desensitization, and reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients better understand their concerns and build skills for change. 

Ashley is committed to working with you to understand what you want out of your life, relationships, and counseling experience. Ashley does not discriminate based on political affiliation, spiritual affiliation, race, sex, gender, or other self-identified affiliation.

"As a queer, chronically ill, autistic counselor from the Appalachian region, I bring a deeply personal understanding of navigating diverse challenges and am here to offer a compassionate and inclusive space for your unique journey."

Alannah Bihl is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 4 years of experience supporting clients from diverse cultures and life experiences. They specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, chronic illness, LGBTQIA+ issues, and neurodivergence. Alannah empowers clients to be their most authentic selves through psychoeducation and self-advocacy and is passionate about helping clients develop resilience, foster strengths, and cultivate their narratives.

Alannah earned their Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ohio University. They utilize an eclectic approach rooted in feminist theory to foster collaboration in the therapeutic process and emphasize that the client is the expert in their own life. Alannah integrates techniques from solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and reality therapies.

Alannah's journey has provided insight into the complexities of intersectionality and resilience. It has also fostered a deep commitment to creating an inclusive, empathetic environment for clients. Alannah is equipped with a nuanced perspective and they are dedicated to helping you find your path to healing and self-acceptance.

"Life can take some unexpected turns and cause some hurt; it is good to talk with someone when feeling ready to heal and finding the root of why we feel hurt and learn to heal from it. "

Winter is certified by the Ohio Counselor Social Worker and Marriage and Family Board as well as the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professional Board. She specializes in trauma and uses EMDR. Winter also specializes in depression, anxiety, addictions, life stressors, and relationship issues. Her goal is to help others see their full potential and help them heal from their barriers in life. 

Winter has a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling and has worked in the Mental Health field for 15+ years. She has worked in the mental health field for 15+ years and in a variety of clinical settings: case management for the chronic mental ill; working with the DD population, IOP groups, and drug/alcohol education. 

"I believe to truly practice self-care, we must ensure we are taking time to address our mental health, the same as we ensure our dental and physical health."

MarLa Bell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals in various roles. She is passionate about improving the lives of individuals and communities by serving as an "interrupter" of systems and barriers to social health needs. MarLa's professional experience along with her mission to ensure others thrive has created a unique skillset. She is a mom of 2 with ample experience navigating life through adversity. MarLa specializes in leadership stress, trauma-informed care, major life transitions (i.e. military, college, and parenting), family conflict, daily stress, and mild depression.

MarLa completed her Master of Social Work (LISW) from Cleveland State University (Phi Alpha Honor Society). MarLa does not use a cookie-cutter treatment approach, and instead gets to know her clients and what works best for them. Some approaches she uses include mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.

MarLa understands that the gaps between what we want our life to be and what it actually is can create anxiety, uncertainty, worry, stress, and depression. She wants to teach others to put more focus and energy toward what we have control over while giving less emotional energy to what we have minimal control over. She wants you to thrive!

"As someone who has worked in the field for almost 15 years in a variety of settings and populations, I feel I have the knowledge and experience to treat a wide variety of issues."

Anna Cummins is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio who has 15 years of experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings that treat individuals suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflict. She is skilled at working with adolescents, emerging adults, and those in middle adulthood.

Anna completed her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Ohio University and received her Master of Education in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College In addition, Anna completed her Ph.D. in Counselor Education, and Supervision from Lindsey Wilson College in 2023. Her therapeutic style focuses on being open-minded, providing a nonjudgmental experience, and meeting her clients where they are in their current situation. 

Anna takes an integrative approach in her interventions based on the client's needs. Her intervention preferences are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, mindfulness, and group therapy. Anna focuses on building a strong collaborative relationship with clients to enhance their ability to focus on their unique strengths and abilities that allow them to meet their individual goals.

"As a mom, I have been very intentional about self-care and navigating life's challenges, while building community, remaining authentic, and being kind to myself."

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor-supervisor (LPCC-S) with 16 years of experience supporting clients through life’s challenges. I specialize in helping adults and adolescents navigate anxiety, life transitions, family dynamics, interpersonal concerns, and identity development. My work is grounded in creating a compassionate, empowering space where clients feel understood, supported, and encouraged to grow.

I earned my master’s degree in mental health counseling from Northern Illinois University. My experience includes extensive work with culturally and ethnically diverse communities, and my approach emphasizes authenticity, meaning, and practical tools for long-term change. I integrate evidence-based methods tailored to each client’s needs.

Beginning therapy is a meaningful step, and I am here to help you move through it with clarity and confidence. I will meet you with empathy, guidance, and patience as you explore your goals and build the skills you need to thrive. Take your time, be kind to yourself, and know that you do not have to navigate this process alone.