Photo of Paula Massengill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Paula Massengill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
We all sometimes face a challenge in life that we just can't seem to resolve on our own. It might be a new chapter in your life that brings unexpected trials: adulthood, marriage, parenting, step-parenting, divorce, children leaving home, caring for your aging parents, the loss of a loved one, or facing your own mortality. It might be a conflict in a relationship with a loved one or in your professional life. Or it might be more of an internal struggle, whether recent or long-standing, that is giving rise to anxiety, depression, struggles with food or alcohol, or other self-defeating behaviors.
We all sometimes face a challenge in life that we just can't seem to resolve on our own. It might be a new chapter in your life that brings unexpected trials: adulthood, marriage, parenting, step-parenting, divorce, children leaving home, caring for your aging parents, the loss of a loved one, or facing your own mortality. It might be a conflict in a relationship with a loved one or in your professional life. Or it might be more of an internal struggle, whether recent or long-standing, that is giving rise to anxiety, depression, struggles with food or alcohol, or other self-defeating behaviors.
(510) 746-8555 View (510) 746-8555
Photo of Willow Banks, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Willow Banks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Healthy relationships, including the one with ourselves, are essential to our well-being. When problems become too much to manage, the therapy relationship provides a supportive space for recovery and personal growth. Discussing your experiences with a caring professional makes it possible to explore thoughts and feelings as they show up. Regular meetings support the process, offering the chance to know yourself more fully over the course of therapy.
Healthy relationships, including the one with ourselves, are essential to our well-being. When problems become too much to manage, the therapy relationship provides a supportive space for recovery and personal growth. Discussing your experiences with a caring professional makes it possible to explore thoughts and feelings as they show up. Regular meetings support the process, offering the chance to know yourself more fully over the course of therapy.
(510) 291-4854 View (510) 291-4854
Photo of Trasie Marie Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Trasie Marie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EAP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
(540) 386-1336 View (540) 386-1336
Photo of Cate Corcoran, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Cate Corcoran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Not accepting new clients
PLEASE NOTE MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL AS OF 5/1/23 As a fully licensed Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, I bring years of experience to the private practice of psychotherapy. Together with you, I help discover patterns, assumptions, conflicts, and internal limitations that are holding you back from a greater sense of happiness, confidence, connection, self-understanding and future direction. My approach is tailored to your specific needs, and I treat root causes, not just symptoms. I work with couples to help move past stuck patterns, while deepening communication and connection.
PLEASE NOTE MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL AS OF 5/1/23 As a fully licensed Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, I bring years of experience to the private practice of psychotherapy. Together with you, I help discover patterns, assumptions, conflicts, and internal limitations that are holding you back from a greater sense of happiness, confidence, connection, self-understanding and future direction. My approach is tailored to your specific needs, and I treat root causes, not just symptoms. I work with couples to help move past stuck patterns, while deepening communication and connection.
(415) 237-4366 View (415) 237-4366

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, internet addiction, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, anger issues, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, we're here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, internet addiction, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, anger issues, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, we're here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(415) 319-9641 View (415) 319-9641
Photo of Jon Platania, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Jon Platania
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709
Life will present us now and then with the unexpected.  This clearly is a time of major change for all of us. Not all of this is new nor is it novel. Even in the most normal of times we often do experience unwelcome events, the loss of a loved one, disability, addiction, economic insecurity, loneliness. To live is perhaps also to suffer. But we need not suffer alone. You will find me to be a compassionate, capable psychotherapist. Working together, I can help you to live a happier, more contented and fulfilling life. So then, where are you now? Where would you like to go from here? Would you like to create a new narrative? 
Life will present us now and then with the unexpected.  This clearly is a time of major change for all of us. Not all of this is new nor is it novel. Even in the most normal of times we often do experience unwelcome events, the loss of a loved one, disability, addiction, economic insecurity, loneliness. To live is perhaps also to suffer. But we need not suffer alone. You will find me to be a compassionate, capable psychotherapist. Working together, I can help you to live a happier, more contented and fulfilling life. So then, where are you now? Where would you like to go from here? Would you like to create a new narrative? 
(510) 937-3920 View (510) 937-3920
Photo of Asya Grigorieva, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Asya Grigorieva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Do you feel you have it all/have enough, but do not feel satisfied, content, happy, or at peace? Do you want to find meaning and purpose in your life? Do you want to examine the root causes of your emotional suffering instead of putting a bandaid on your symptoms? If so, I invite you to schedule a 20-minute consultation with me to begin exploring your transformation. I can help you to learn to trust yourself, discern what you have and don't have control/responsibility over, and find your center/ true north, which you can utilize to make decisions more effectively and flow through life's ups and downs with more ease.
Do you feel you have it all/have enough, but do not feel satisfied, content, happy, or at peace? Do you want to find meaning and purpose in your life? Do you want to examine the root causes of your emotional suffering instead of putting a bandaid on your symptoms? If so, I invite you to schedule a 20-minute consultation with me to begin exploring your transformation. I can help you to learn to trust yourself, discern what you have and don't have control/responsibility over, and find your center/ true north, which you can utilize to make decisions more effectively and flow through life's ups and downs with more ease.
(415) 935-4922 View (415) 935-4922
Photo of Romi Mann, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Romi Mann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Not accepting new clients
Searching online for a therapist is not easy but finding a good fit is essential to feel safe and get the most out of your effort, time, and money. I work collaboratively and actively with adolescents, adults, and couples. We will work together to recognize and develop your strengths, to understand and change unproductive or painful patterns, and to help you gain relief from suffering. I emphasize safety, respect, honesty, and compassion for self and others. I offer a free initial phone consultation. If I am unable to help, I will try to provide you with referrals to others.
Searching online for a therapist is not easy but finding a good fit is essential to feel safe and get the most out of your effort, time, and money. I work collaboratively and actively with adolescents, adults, and couples. We will work together to recognize and develop your strengths, to understand and change unproductive or painful patterns, and to help you gain relief from suffering. I emphasize safety, respect, honesty, and compassion for self and others. I offer a free initial phone consultation. If I am unable to help, I will try to provide you with referrals to others.
(415) 508-7664 View (415) 508-7664

Online Therapists

Photo of Laura Beann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Laura Beann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
I approach psychotherapy from a whole-person perspective and I believe therapy, along with other practices, can help us awaken to a life of meaning. In therapy I will help you identify the source of your longing to be whole, and together, we will move closer to that source, so you become re-sourced. Together we will explore your innate natural cycles and help you align to your own rhythm, so that you might meet depletion with rest and energy with creativity.
I approach psychotherapy from a whole-person perspective and I believe therapy, along with other practices, can help us awaken to a life of meaning. In therapy I will help you identify the source of your longing to be whole, and together, we will move closer to that source, so you become re-sourced. Together we will explore your innate natural cycles and help you align to your own rhythm, so that you might meet depletion with rest and energy with creativity.
(650) 547-3560 View (650) 547-3560
Photo of Rowan Schuitevoerder, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Rowan Schuitevoerder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Telehealth available in Oregon and California. The process of therapy is as unique and nuanced as the stories of each of our lives. Who we are and who we might discover ourselves to be are at the center of each therapeutic journey. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit your unique story, the specific challenges you arrive with, and the goals you seek to reach. I offer a space free from judgment where you can speak openly, unhampered by social mores and conventional expectations. I work with individuals, couples, and teenagers. Telehealth available in Oregon and California.
Telehealth available in Oregon and California. The process of therapy is as unique and nuanced as the stories of each of our lives. Who we are and who we might discover ourselves to be are at the center of each therapeutic journey. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit your unique story, the specific challenges you arrive with, and the goals you seek to reach. I offer a space free from judgment where you can speak openly, unhampered by social mores and conventional expectations. I work with individuals, couples, and teenagers. Telehealth available in Oregon and California.
View
Photo of Dobbs Psychology, Inc. , Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dobbs Psychology, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CA 95492  (Online Only)
For me, it is vital that you feel heard and supported all times, without judgment. Together, we will strategize how to best cope with daily stressors effectively and easily. I can help you leave the past behind through self-forgiveness and by creating a much more positive present, and thus, future. Often, we talk to ourselves in very negative ways and this determines our reactions and limitations, as well as our worldview. I will help you radically improve your self-esteem and take on each day's challenges feeling strong and at peace with yourself. I also specialize in trauma. My way of treating it is effective and painless.
For me, it is vital that you feel heard and supported all times, without judgment. Together, we will strategize how to best cope with daily stressors effectively and easily. I can help you leave the past behind through self-forgiveness and by creating a much more positive present, and thus, future. Often, we talk to ourselves in very negative ways and this determines our reactions and limitations, as well as our worldview. I will help you radically improve your self-esteem and take on each day's challenges feeling strong and at peace with yourself. I also specialize in trauma. My way of treating it is effective and painless.
(707) 309-6991 View (707) 309-6991
Photo of Thomas Marchevsky, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Oakland, CA
Thomas Marchevsky
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Welcome. Are you ready for the work necessary to make real, enduring change? Do you have a troubling personal issue or suffer from general dissatisfaction? My orientation is to focus on the unconscious, the elusive essence of the problem. A powerful process unfolds when change occurs at this level of the mind. This opens the space for authentic personal transformation.
Welcome. Are you ready for the work necessary to make real, enduring change? Do you have a troubling personal issue or suffer from general dissatisfaction? My orientation is to focus on the unconscious, the elusive essence of the problem. A powerful process unfolds when change occurs at this level of the mind. This opens the space for authentic personal transformation.
(628) 225-3616 View (628) 225-3616
Photo of Carrie K Evenden, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Carrie K Evenden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
The decision to start psychotherapy is significant as it often means that you are suffering in some way or you've realized that what you have been doing is no longer working, and you are seeking change in your life. As your therapist, I will help you find meaning in the connections of your story and the patterns of your relationships, as well as discover and challenge your conflicts, assumptions and limitations. Through this exploration, you will be able to know yourself more deeply and live with more freedom, possibility, joy and self-understanding. My approach is collaborative, warm, and authentic.
The decision to start psychotherapy is significant as it often means that you are suffering in some way or you've realized that what you have been doing is no longer working, and you are seeking change in your life. As your therapist, I will help you find meaning in the connections of your story and the patterns of your relationships, as well as discover and challenge your conflicts, assumptions and limitations. Through this exploration, you will be able to know yourself more deeply and live with more freedom, possibility, joy and self-understanding. My approach is collaborative, warm, and authentic.
(415) 980-8621 View (415) 980-8621
Photo of Adriana Galvez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Adriana Galvez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95758  (Online Only)
I'm so glad to meet you on this therapeutic journey! My desire as a therapist is to meet people where they are in their own process of exploration and healing. That said, the most successful clients are ready to open themselves up to the chance that change is possible. I entered the mental health field to provide the kind of support and care that I would want my own family members to receive if they were experiencing an emotional or psychological crisis. I have been on both sides of the mental health system and know the barriers that can occur in finding quality and compassionate mental health care.
I'm so glad to meet you on this therapeutic journey! My desire as a therapist is to meet people where they are in their own process of exploration and healing. That said, the most successful clients are ready to open themselves up to the chance that change is possible. I entered the mental health field to provide the kind of support and care that I would want my own family members to receive if they were experiencing an emotional or psychological crisis. I have been on both sides of the mental health system and know the barriers that can occur in finding quality and compassionate mental health care.
(916) 713-3802 View (916) 713-3802
Photo of Brooke P Jackson, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Brooke P Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating people engaged in making life transitions, whether they have been consciously chosen or not. My threshold work focuses on assisting you to skillfully navigate the space between what was and what is yet to be, an often uncomfortable time called ‘liminal space’, when what can become deeply transformative may feel more like a disorienting upheaval. Issues such as depression and anxiety; the changes we encounter because of health and aging; shifts in self-expression, relationships, work, and your unique spiritual connection to this life may all be redefined in the transition.
I specialize in treating people engaged in making life transitions, whether they have been consciously chosen or not. My threshold work focuses on assisting you to skillfully navigate the space between what was and what is yet to be, an often uncomfortable time called ‘liminal space’, when what can become deeply transformative may feel more like a disorienting upheaval. Issues such as depression and anxiety; the changes we encounter because of health and aging; shifts in self-expression, relationships, work, and your unique spiritual connection to this life may all be redefined in the transition.
(415) 319-9063 View (415) 319-9063
Photo of Diane Harnish, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Diane Harnish
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472  (Online Only)
I now offer a limited number of sessions in person in my Novato office; most sessions are via telehealth. Either way, we will explore your issues via talk and somatic work. I will help you gain insight as to how your character style inhibits healthy coping. COVID isolation is a good time to do your inner work and liberate your true Self as you envision moving forward. Please call for a 1/2 hour consultation to discuss how I work and see if we are a good fit!
I now offer a limited number of sessions in person in my Novato office; most sessions are via telehealth. Either way, we will explore your issues via talk and somatic work. I will help you gain insight as to how your character style inhibits healthy coping. COVID isolation is a good time to do your inner work and liberate your true Self as you envision moving forward. Please call for a 1/2 hour consultation to discuss how I work and see if we are a good fit!
(415) 944-3110 View (415) 944-3110
Photo of Maggie Homsy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Maggie Homsy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP, NARM-T
Verified Verified
Middletown, CA 95461
I specialize in treating trauma and chronic stress, in particular developmental trauma. I work holistically and incorporate the body-mind perspective in my work. I have completed the three-year (216 hour) training to become a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), which is a short-term naturalistic approach to healing trauma. I have also completed the two-year (144 hour) training in the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), which is a treatment approach that addresses developmental trauma, i.e. childhood trauma. I am currently studying Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Association of California (PINC).
I specialize in treating trauma and chronic stress, in particular developmental trauma. I work holistically and incorporate the body-mind perspective in my work. I have completed the three-year (216 hour) training to become a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), which is a short-term naturalistic approach to healing trauma. I have also completed the two-year (144 hour) training in the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), which is a treatment approach that addresses developmental trauma, i.e. childhood trauma. I am currently studying Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Association of California (PINC).
(707) 394-4074 View (707) 394-4074
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-0957 View (562) 268-0957
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1415 View (562) 268-1415
Photo of Rebecca Currie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rebecca Currie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working for Mindful Health Solutions as a Psychotherapist. I specialize in working with children, adults, and families who are experiencing challenges with Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, PTSD and other mental health concerns often caused and exacerbated by complex trauma. Modalities I like to utilize within treatment include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working for Mindful Health Solutions as a Psychotherapist. I specialize in working with children, adults, and families who are experiencing challenges with Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, PTSD and other mental health concerns often caused and exacerbated by complex trauma. Modalities I like to utilize within treatment include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
(707) 979-6117 View (707) 979-6117

Codependency Therapists

What therapy types help with codependency problems?

Both couples and family therapy and cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) can help with the relationship difficulties referred to as codependency. Such problems typically include inappropriate feelings of responsibility for a loved one’s destructive behavior, irrational patterns of thinking about such behavior, and family interaction patterns in which the needs of one troubled member override the needs of others in a household.

What happens in therapy for codependency?

Spouses and family members learn and practice how to interact and support each other in a healthy way without sacrificing their own needs or well-being. They learn the limits of their responsibility for their loved ones and correct faulty patterns of thinking and feeling that underlie codependent behavior. Individuals may be encouraged to nurture an array of social relationships and to cultivate their own talents and interests so that they develop a healthy sense of self outside the family.

How does therapy help a person or couple overcome codependency?

Therapy helps people establish healthy ways of being in a relationship. Spouses and family members learn how to nurture and support one another without sacrificing their own needs or allowing the needs of one person to dominate the dynamic. Individuals learn how to say no and set boundaries, and how to maintain their own identity and self-esteem. Therapy helps people understand that they are not responsible for the feelings and actions of others. It also helps individuals deal with the turbulence that can come from living with a person suffering from such conditions as substance abuse and mental illness.

What is the goal of therapy for codependency?

One goal of therapy for codependency is to alleviate feelings of responsibility for and correct irrational patterns of thinking about loved ones whose behavioral problems override the needs of others in a household. Therapy helps people establish healthy boundaries of behavior and speak up for their own needs in a relationship. In addition, people learn how to maintain a healthy relationship, one in which both parties give and receive equally and are able to retain their own identity.