Art Therapy in West Village, New York, NY

Photo of Susan Paul Firestone, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Susan Paul Firestone
Art Therapist, PhD, LCAT, ATR-BC, MA
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
As an artist and art psychotherapist, I have found creativity to be a key in getting to possibilities and an expanded outlook. Working with children and adults has taught me that there is a way to access this in conversation and/or through creative arts therapies, such as art or writing. It is a rewarding experience to tap into one's inner resources and awaken the sources of active imagination for experiencing life in one's own unique form. My approach in therapy is client-centered and relationally based.
As an artist and art psychotherapist, I have found creativity to be a key in getting to possibilities and an expanded outlook. Working with children and adults has taught me that there is a way to access this in conversation and/or through creative arts therapies, such as art or writing. It is a rewarding experience to tap into one's inner resources and awaken the sources of active imagination for experiencing life in one's own unique form. My approach in therapy is client-centered and relationally based.
(646) 461-4353 View (646) 461-4353
Photo of Audrey Mahler, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Audrey Mahler
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
I am trained in Jungian analysis and art therapy.
Therapy is a commitment one makes to oneself. It is a unique and creative process dedicated to self reflection and self discovery. Together we can explore a wide range of issues, chronic patterns, and challenging life events. We will listen to symptoms as messengers - expressing something of the greater self that needs to be understood and attended to. The goal is to relieve emotional distress and suffering; to make space for your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and to gain greater understanding about your inner workings, your relationship to yourself and others, and how you want to live into your life.
I am trained in Jungian analysis and art therapy.
Therapy is a commitment one makes to oneself. It is a unique and creative process dedicated to self reflection and self discovery. Together we can explore a wide range of issues, chronic patterns, and challenging life events. We will listen to symptoms as messengers - expressing something of the greater self that needs to be understood and attended to. The goal is to relieve emotional distress and suffering; to make space for your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and to gain greater understanding about your inner workings, your relationship to yourself and others, and how you want to live into your life.
(646) 807-4193 View (646) 807-4193
Photo of Sean Reckwerdt, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Sean Reckwerdt
Art Therapist, LCAT, MPS, MSc
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
Currently, I am meeting virtually with most clients, but have a few in-person art therapy slots available.
Sometimes there are not words to describe how we feel. Art, historically has offered us all an alternative method of expression. When applied in therapy, art can be that bridge, a planted seed, a farewell, or a lasting reminder of an experience or relationship we needed/wanted to honor or transform. These intuitive tools allow us to go deeper into our (un)conscious stories, and gets us to those insights that our egos, traumas, and words have been defending, guarding, hiding, or blocking from ourselves and others. Using Art Therapy, you'll be able to experience different perspectives and empower yourself to tell new stories.
Currently, I am meeting virtually with most clients, but have a few in-person art therapy slots available.
Sometimes there are not words to describe how we feel. Art, historically has offered us all an alternative method of expression. When applied in therapy, art can be that bridge, a planted seed, a farewell, or a lasting reminder of an experience or relationship we needed/wanted to honor or transform. These intuitive tools allow us to go deeper into our (un)conscious stories, and gets us to those insights that our egos, traumas, and words have been defending, guarding, hiding, or blocking from ourselves and others. Using Art Therapy, you'll be able to experience different perspectives and empower yourself to tell new stories.
(646) 760-8053 View (646) 760-8053
Photo of Kiri Lester-Hodges - Jamron Counseling, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Kiri Lester-Hodges - Jamron Counseling
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Village, New York, NY 10014
In my art therapy practice, I provide a flexible and tailored approach for each client and their individual needs and backgrounds.
Clients I work with are often experiencing feelings of instability, rigidity, and isolation. I work to establish trust and introduce art as a creative tool to support goals of building self-awareness and relational skills. People who need support can come to me to co-create adaptive strategies to manage stress, overwhelm, and hopelessness.
In my art therapy practice, I provide a flexible and tailored approach for each client and their individual needs and backgrounds.
Clients I work with are often experiencing feelings of instability, rigidity, and isolation. I work to establish trust and introduce art as a creative tool to support goals of building self-awareness and relational skills. People who need support can come to me to co-create adaptive strategies to manage stress, overwhelm, and hopelessness.
(347) 658-3303 View (347) 658-3303
Photo of Buffy Curtis, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Buffy Curtis
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Village, New York, NY 10072  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR, art therapy, PAT, somatic practices, and community integration to to support issues such as women’s health, somatic complaints/manifestations, mood disruption, interpersonal challenges, grief and more.
If you feel overwhelmed, disconnected or simply burned out, I am here to offer support and tools that can help you reclaim your vitality. It's incredibly common for people to experience daily struggles with trauma, attachment, communication, and social challenges. It's also common to deny ourselves the support we need to navigate these issues so we can thrive instead of survive. For over 15 years I have worked with trauma, anxiety, relationship issues and somatic challenges with a variety of modalities including EMDR, art therapy and psychedelic assisted therapy. I provide concierge billing and sliding scale prices.
I offer EMDR, art therapy, PAT, somatic practices, and community integration to to support issues such as women’s health, somatic complaints/manifestations, mood disruption, interpersonal challenges, grief and more.
If you feel overwhelmed, disconnected or simply burned out, I am here to offer support and tools that can help you reclaim your vitality. It's incredibly common for people to experience daily struggles with trauma, attachment, communication, and social challenges. It's also common to deny ourselves the support we need to navigate these issues so we can thrive instead of survive. For over 15 years I have worked with trauma, anxiety, relationship issues and somatic challenges with a variety of modalities including EMDR, art therapy and psychedelic assisted therapy. I provide concierge billing and sliding scale prices.
(315) 776-7739 View (315) 776-7739
Photo of Sylvia Martinez, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Sylvia Martinez
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy to foster insight and reflection.
I welcome anyone who is looking to explore ways to improve their quality of life, whether it is due to life transitions, relationship conflicts, creative blocks, or managing emotional challenges. Through consistent and committed work together, we can identify the root of where troubling patterns have begun and develop strategies to help you gain balance, strength, and personal fulfillment. I have experience working with people who are seeking meaning in their lives and are looking to create a full, creative life.
I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy to foster insight and reflection.
I welcome anyone who is looking to explore ways to improve their quality of life, whether it is due to life transitions, relationship conflicts, creative blocks, or managing emotional challenges. Through consistent and committed work together, we can identify the root of where troubling patterns have begun and develop strategies to help you gain balance, strength, and personal fulfillment. I have experience working with people who are seeking meaning in their lives and are looking to create a full, creative life.
(646) 461-1917 View (646) 461-1917
Photo of Johanny Pena, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Johanny Pena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Village, New York, NY 10014
Bilingual (English and Spanish) psychotherapist with experience and interests in treatment of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Together we will work towards your wellbeing. I am here to help you gain insight and assist you with overcoming unhealthy patterns that leave you feeling stuck and depleted. Using a holistic and eclectic approach, I will focus on your strengths, and the gifts you already hold within. As we collaborate together, we implement effective skills, and tools to help you feel connected, empowered and in control of your life, environment and your relationships. I enjoy working with diverse populations and backgrounds.
Bilingual (English and Spanish) psychotherapist with experience and interests in treatment of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Together we will work towards your wellbeing. I am here to help you gain insight and assist you with overcoming unhealthy patterns that leave you feeling stuck and depleted. Using a holistic and eclectic approach, I will focus on your strengths, and the gifts you already hold within. As we collaborate together, we implement effective skills, and tools to help you feel connected, empowered and in control of your life, environment and your relationships. I enjoy working with diverse populations and backgrounds.
(914) 867-3902 View (914) 867-3902
Photo of Kimberly C Agresta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Kimberly C Agresta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10011
The Agresta Psychotherapy group has been providing psychotherapeutic services in the Metropolitan area for over thirty years. I, personally, have worked in the mental health profession in various capacities for over 20 years. My specialties include anxiety disorders, relationship counseling, women's issues and family and group therapy. I established a division of APG called Women's Wellness. Women's Wellness specializes in problems commonly associated with women, such as postpartum depression, fertility, adoption and surrogacy, women's cancers, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills and couples issues.
The Agresta Psychotherapy group has been providing psychotherapeutic services in the Metropolitan area for over thirty years. I, personally, have worked in the mental health profession in various capacities for over 20 years. My specialties include anxiety disorders, relationship counseling, women's issues and family and group therapy. I established a division of APG called Women's Wellness. Women's Wellness specializes in problems commonly associated with women, such as postpartum depression, fertility, adoption and surrogacy, women's cancers, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills and couples issues.
(212) 627-7727 View (212) 627-7727
Photo of Sarina Meones, Licensed Psychoanalyst in West Village, New York, NY
Sarina Meones
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, PsyA
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
Do you feel Depressed, Anxious, Unhappy in your Relationships or your Job? I will help you gain Insight and Support, so that you can feel feel more Hopeful about the future and help you have better relationships. Are you feeling frustrated Creatively or in your Career? Call Me to begin the process of gaining Insight, making changes and feeling Empowered to become the person you want to be. I will help you learn about yourself in a caring and safe environment so that you can live a more productive, happier and fulfilling life.
Do you feel Depressed, Anxious, Unhappy in your Relationships or your Job? I will help you gain Insight and Support, so that you can feel feel more Hopeful about the future and help you have better relationships. Are you feeling frustrated Creatively or in your Career? Call Me to begin the process of gaining Insight, making changes and feeling Empowered to become the person you want to be. I will help you learn about yourself in a caring and safe environment so that you can live a more productive, happier and fulfilling life.
(646) 699-4125 View (646) 699-4125
Photo of Marissa Manzanares, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Marissa Manzanares
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Village, New York, NY 10014
I truly believe that everyone deserves the gift of therapy. Whether it is a difficult experience or simply a curiosity about yourself that brings you to therapy, the experience can be truly life changing. You deserve a safe space, free from judgement in which you can be heard and supported. I strive to bring this feeling to my therapeutic relationships, so that we can explore various patterns that may leave you feeling stuck, anxious, or depressed. By finding these patterns we can help you to develop new ways of thinking in order to live your life in the way that feels most meaningful to you.
I truly believe that everyone deserves the gift of therapy. Whether it is a difficult experience or simply a curiosity about yourself that brings you to therapy, the experience can be truly life changing. You deserve a safe space, free from judgement in which you can be heard and supported. I strive to bring this feeling to my therapeutic relationships, so that we can explore various patterns that may leave you feeling stuck, anxious, or depressed. By finding these patterns we can help you to develop new ways of thinking in order to live your life in the way that feels most meaningful to you.
(917) 725-5014 View (917) 725-5014
Photo of Clifford Waldman, Psychologist in West Village, New York, NY
Clifford Waldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
Perhaps you're seeking emotional understanding or spiritual guidance. Perhaps you're a young aspiring professional, or a more middle-aged partial success story, maybe with a family. Despite success in parts of your universe, you've discovered an emptiness or impasse that keeps you from peace and fulfillment. Whether it's an invisible existential spiritual void screaming for a new source of security, or life's common woes of financial pressure, infidelity, career confusion, and dealing with bullies, we all at some point need spiritual, emotional, and practical guidance. The wise realize it's a great power to be able to ask for help.
Perhaps you're seeking emotional understanding or spiritual guidance. Perhaps you're a young aspiring professional, or a more middle-aged partial success story, maybe with a family. Despite success in parts of your universe, you've discovered an emptiness or impasse that keeps you from peace and fulfillment. Whether it's an invisible existential spiritual void screaming for a new source of security, or life's common woes of financial pressure, infidelity, career confusion, and dealing with bullies, we all at some point need spiritual, emotional, and practical guidance. The wise realize it's a great power to be able to ask for help.
(332) 241-6104 View (332) 241-6104
Photo of At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MD, PhD, LCSW, PDOC
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
(917) 789-1484 View (917) 789-1484
Photo of Amy C. Storey, Creative Arts Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Amy C. Storey
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, MFA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
My intention is to help clients create the lives they wish for themselves. Living with integrity, agency and authenticity usually entails relinquishing deep seated habits of accommodating others. This often involves grief, depression, identity crises, issues with self-esteem, existential anxiety, creative blocks, life transitions and crises of faith. In addition to moving beyond the residue of past trauma, together we will identify narratives and patterns that are no longer helpful and will focus on what, specifically, YOU want for yourself in this life. I enjoy working with people in the arts.
My intention is to help clients create the lives they wish for themselves. Living with integrity, agency and authenticity usually entails relinquishing deep seated habits of accommodating others. This often involves grief, depression, identity crises, issues with self-esteem, existential anxiety, creative blocks, life transitions and crises of faith. In addition to moving beyond the residue of past trauma, together we will identify narratives and patterns that are no longer helpful and will focus on what, specifically, YOU want for yourself in this life. I enjoy working with people in the arts.
(917) 924-6735 View (917) 924-6735
Photo of Jessica Reuveni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Jessica Reuveni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Village, New York, NY 10014
We all have experienced incredible amounts of hurt. We become a little (or a lot) bit haunted by the experiences we’ve had and learn a million silent and painful lessons about how we should know better, be different, expect less, and avoid real vulnerability. The good part is that thats where therapy comes in. You and I work together to bring attention and understanding to complexities of who you are and what you've learned to endure and exist around. Often this looks like exploring trauma but also it can look like exploring all of the shame and fears that are often in the way of communicating, living, and connecting in the most
We all have experienced incredible amounts of hurt. We become a little (or a lot) bit haunted by the experiences we’ve had and learn a million silent and painful lessons about how we should know better, be different, expect less, and avoid real vulnerability. The good part is that thats where therapy comes in. You and I work together to bring attention and understanding to complexities of who you are and what you've learned to endure and exist around. Often this looks like exploring trauma but also it can look like exploring all of the shame and fears that are often in the way of communicating, living, and connecting in the most
(347) 952-7159 View (347) 952-7159
Photo of Mary Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Mary Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
Greetings! Welcome to my page. If you are here it means that you are on the path to being the best version of you.Do you have difficulty with relationships/communication skills? Do you feel misunderstood by others? Is it difficult to relax even when you are exhausted? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, confused, or just unsure of yourself at times? Do you experience negative thoughts (or actions) that you find difficult expressing to others? Flashbacks of difficult memories? I am here to travel a path to wellness with you. Here you will find a safe, confidential, non-judgemental place to unpack.
Greetings! Welcome to my page. If you are here it means that you are on the path to being the best version of you.Do you have difficulty with relationships/communication skills? Do you feel misunderstood by others? Is it difficult to relax even when you are exhausted? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, confused, or just unsure of yourself at times? Do you experience negative thoughts (or actions) that you find difficult expressing to others? Flashbacks of difficult memories? I am here to travel a path to wellness with you. Here you will find a safe, confidential, non-judgemental place to unpack.
(347) 480-4317 View (347) 480-4317
Photo of Erin Fallert, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Erin Fallert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Village, New York, NY 10014
Life can often be challenging, overwhelming, and confusing. I believe therapy should be a safe and supportive space to process and resolve past difficulties, current stressors, and anxieties about the future. I aim to empower individuals and couples to be their authentic selves, to pursue the lives they want, and to embrace vulnerability in their relationships. Together, we will work to help you achieve your goals and feel more at peace with yourself.
Life can often be challenging, overwhelming, and confusing. I believe therapy should be a safe and supportive space to process and resolve past difficulties, current stressors, and anxieties about the future. I aim to empower individuals and couples to be their authentic selves, to pursue the lives they want, and to embrace vulnerability in their relationships. Together, we will work to help you achieve your goals and feel more at peace with yourself.
(332) 334-7343 View (332) 334-7343
Photo of Erin Smythe, Counselor in West Village, New York, NY
Erin Smythe
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Village, New York, NY 10011
Not accepting new clients
I also love using creative strategies including play and art therapies, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and others.
Hello! I am an LMHC with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, families, and young adults. I enjoy working with children who experience anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and other adjustment difficulties due to life changes and family transitions. I also enjoy working with young adults to help support transition from childhood to adulthood and work through the adjustment of finding your own way during the post-high school, college, and graduate school years. I enjoy helping people find increased peace in their daily lives and more confidence in themselves.
I also love using creative strategies including play and art therapies, talk therapy, motivational interviewing, and others.
Hello! I am an LMHC with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, families, and young adults. I enjoy working with children who experience anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and other adjustment difficulties due to life changes and family transitions. I also enjoy working with young adults to help support transition from childhood to adulthood and work through the adjustment of finding your own way during the post-high school, college, and graduate school years. I enjoy helping people find increased peace in their daily lives and more confidence in themselves.
(347) 434-6358 View (347) 434-6358

Online Therapists

Photo of Courtney Ann Bouchard, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Courtney Ann Bouchard
Art Therapist, LCAT, MPS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10032
I believe that we never lose our creative spark, and that with the right tools, it can be accessed and implemented as a healing force. With creative expression, we can imagine real life scenarios through multiple lenses, and look into the past and the future through different perspectives. No matter your age, art-making can be used to make sense of our emotional landscape, foster self-compassion and organize our thoughts, which can get jumbled in the hustle and bustle of life. I utilize an integrative approach that marries both Art Therapy and traditional psychotherapy. No experience using art materials is needed!
I believe that we never lose our creative spark, and that with the right tools, it can be accessed and implemented as a healing force. With creative expression, we can imagine real life scenarios through multiple lenses, and look into the past and the future through different perspectives. No matter your age, art-making can be used to make sense of our emotional landscape, foster self-compassion and organize our thoughts, which can get jumbled in the hustle and bustle of life. I utilize an integrative approach that marries both Art Therapy and traditional psychotherapy. No experience using art materials is needed!
(718) 785-8267 View (718) 785-8267
Photo of Emily Hardy, Art Therapist in West Village, New York, NY
Emily Hardy
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10029
I am licensed as an art psychotherapist, and am a nationally board certified art therapist; this means that I can offer you a variety of tools during your journey in therapy.
Choosing to invest in yourself and your mental health is an act of courage. By looking for a therapist, you have begun the first step on that path. In our work together, I will help you navigate life’s challenges. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, or otherwise struggling, then you are not alone. I have extensive experience assisting clients work through their feelings in ways that enable them to live more full and balanced lives. Art therapy can help clients reach breakthroughs through nonverbal engagement, by helping you work through your troubles using creative areas of the brain.
I am licensed as an art psychotherapist, and am a nationally board certified art therapist; this means that I can offer you a variety of tools during your journey in therapy.
Choosing to invest in yourself and your mental health is an act of courage. By looking for a therapist, you have begun the first step on that path. In our work together, I will help you navigate life’s challenges. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, or otherwise struggling, then you are not alone. I have extensive experience assisting clients work through their feelings in ways that enable them to live more full and balanced lives. Art therapy can help clients reach breakthroughs through nonverbal engagement, by helping you work through your troubles using creative areas of the brain.
(646) 762-6419 View (646) 762-6419
Photo of Erin Gibbons, Counselor in West Village, New York, NY
Erin Gibbons
Counselor, LMHC, LCAT, ATR-BC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10280
I am committed to creating a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment through a person-centered approach. Based on your goals in therapy, we will work together to utilize psychotherapy, art therapy, or a combination to facilitate growth while restoring emotional and mental health. As each individual's experiences and needs are unique, I take a holistic approach to our work together that draws on trauma informed treatment and attachment theory.
I am committed to creating a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment through a person-centered approach. Based on your goals in therapy, we will work together to utilize psychotherapy, art therapy, or a combination to facilitate growth while restoring emotional and mental health. As each individual's experiences and needs are unique, I take a holistic approach to our work together that draws on trauma informed treatment and attachment theory.
(347) 694-4917 View (347) 694-4917

See more therapy options for West Village, New York

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.