LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, DC
Gotel & Thrive, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
Helping you find the best you. I tend to focus on LGBTQIA+ Issues, which include but are not limited to social anxiety, fear about coming out or being rejected, and concerns about being alone. I also provide therapeutic services to individuals dealing with addiction (i.e. Crystal Meth, Sex-Drug Fusion). It is important that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and body size feel respected and heard with me. People of all backgrounds should be able to get the help they need without fear of microaggressions or further oppression by the therapist. I am also an officiant and offer pre-martial counseling.
Helping you find the best you. I tend to focus on LGBTQIA+ Issues, which include but are not limited to social anxiety, fear about coming out or being rejected, and concerns about being alone. I also provide therapeutic services to individuals dealing with addiction (i.e. Crystal Meth, Sex-Drug Fusion). It is important that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and body size feel respected and heard with me. People of all backgrounds should be able to get the help they need without fear of microaggressions or further oppression by the therapist. I am also an officiant and offer pre-martial counseling.
Christopher Boler
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, attachment work, people living with HIV, gender exploration, sex therapy, trauma, life adjustments, depression/anxiety, perfectionism and other mental health concerns.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
My specialties include LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, attachment work, people living with HIV, gender exploration, sex therapy, trauma, life adjustments, depression/anxiety, perfectionism and other mental health concerns.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
Julie Colatrella
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
As a queer person who has struggled with my own depression and anxiety, I find joy in helping others through their journeys of identity development, self-love, and achieving greater inner peace.
I am a queer therapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults (ages 13-35 )as they navigate life transitions and stressors. Together, we explore the roots of personal identity and consider tools to help you achieve your mental health goals. My approach is client-centered, and my role is to empower and support you as you create the life you want to live. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, and expressive arts approaches.
As a queer person who has struggled with my own depression and anxiety, I find joy in helping others through their journeys of identity development, self-love, and achieving greater inner peace.
I am a queer therapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults (ages 13-35 )as they navigate life transitions and stressors. Together, we explore the roots of personal identity and consider tools to help you achieve your mental health goals. My approach is client-centered, and my role is to empower and support you as you create the life you want to live. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, and expressive arts approaches.
James Dubry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Drawing from my experiences as a military spouse, in foster care, and as part of the LGBTQ+ community, I offer holistic support for individuals facing transitions, family/relationship stress, life struggles, addiction, and trauma.
Hey there! I'm genuinely thrilled to share my passion for psychotherapy, particularly in supporting a diverse group of adults, including LGBTQ+ individuals like myself. I have a strong background in assisting LGBTQ individuals, college students, and veterans from various backgrounds. My time as a first responder has given me insights into stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue that I bring to my work with clients facing similar challenges. I focus on issues like loss, grief, anxiety, and depression, drawing from my extensive experience and training. Building trust with my clients is paramount and leads to more rewarding results.
Drawing from my experiences as a military spouse, in foster care, and as part of the LGBTQ+ community, I offer holistic support for individuals facing transitions, family/relationship stress, life struggles, addiction, and trauma.
Hey there! I'm genuinely thrilled to share my passion for psychotherapy, particularly in supporting a diverse group of adults, including LGBTQ+ individuals like myself. I have a strong background in assisting LGBTQ individuals, college students, and veterans from various backgrounds. My time as a first responder has given me insights into stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue that I bring to my work with clients facing similar challenges. I focus on issues like loss, grief, anxiety, and depression, drawing from my extensive experience and training. Building trust with my clients is paramount and leads to more rewarding results.
Dallas Williams-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
John Drollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011 (Online Only)
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
I'm a Washington, DC Native with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University. I have developed a passion for combining my 10+ years of experience in the arts with helping individuals meet their mental health and wellness goals in a counseling setting. I am passionate about the experience of gender diverse and members of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe every individual is unique and their worldview should be validated.
I'm a Washington, DC Native with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University. I have developed a passion for combining my 10+ years of experience in the arts with helping individuals meet their mental health and wellness goals in a counseling setting. I am passionate about the experience of gender diverse and members of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe every individual is unique and their worldview should be validated.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I create a collaborative environment centered on the premise that you are expert of your own life. Using a holistic, multicultural lens, I both affirm and challenge clients to help discern goals, values, & beliefs as well as their origins. I use an integrated approach with Acceptance & Commitment Theory (ACT) as its foundation. I incorporate techniques to help clients accept what is beyond their control as well as take values-based action in the present to create a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I integrate both Attachment and Family Systems Theory to encourage better understanding of interpersonal roles and desired boundaries.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I create a collaborative environment centered on the premise that you are expert of your own life. Using a holistic, multicultural lens, I both affirm and challenge clients to help discern goals, values, & beliefs as well as their origins. I use an integrated approach with Acceptance & Commitment Theory (ACT) as its foundation. I incorporate techniques to help clients accept what is beyond their control as well as take values-based action in the present to create a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I integrate both Attachment and Family Systems Theory to encourage better understanding of interpersonal roles and desired boundaries.
Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, Sex, Therapi
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW). We provide individual, group, couples, family therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, dietitians, acupuncture, personal training, massage therapy, and teaching. Our approach to care is client centered. We help to figure out your unique individual needs and tailor treatment to you. I am a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and completing a PhD in Sexology. I specialize in working with all things sex related, LGBTQ+, social justice, mood disorders, eating concerns, body image, relationships, couples counseling, and group therapy.
I am the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW). We provide individual, group, couples, family therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, dietitians, acupuncture, personal training, massage therapy, and teaching. Our approach to care is client centered. We help to figure out your unique individual needs and tailor treatment to you. I am a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and completing a PhD in Sexology. I specialize in working with all things sex related, LGBTQ+, social justice, mood disorders, eating concerns, body image, relationships, couples counseling, and group therapy.
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The Capital Therapist
Hello! I'm Dr. Young, a dedicated health psychologist deeply invested in behavioral medicine and health psychology. As an LPC-S and Licensed Psychologist in Texas, along with holding licenses in multiple states, I'm well-equipped to provide top-tier supervision for LPC-A's and Psychology trainees. My focus lies in empowering individuals managing chronic illnesses, HIV, and those within the LGBT community, as well as aiding individuals seeking to modify their health behaviors.
Hello! I'm Dr. Young, a dedicated health psychologist deeply invested in behavioral medicine and health psychology. As an LPC-S and Licensed Psychologist in Texas, along with holding licenses in multiple states, I'm well-equipped to provide top-tier supervision for LPC-A's and Psychology trainees. My focus lies in empowering individuals managing chronic illnesses, HIV, and those within the LGBT community, as well as aiding individuals seeking to modify their health behaviors.
I am currently completing my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. My clinical focus includes young adults and couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and providing guidance during major life transitions, especially marriage and the perinatal/birth phase. I specialize in working with overachievers and perfectionists, assisting them in managing self-imposed pressures and achieving a healthier balance. I look forward to helping you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your lives.
I am currently completing my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. My clinical focus includes young adults and couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and providing guidance during major life transitions, especially marriage and the perinatal/birth phase. I specialize in working with overachievers and perfectionists, assisting them in managing self-imposed pressures and achieving a healthier balance. I look forward to helping you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your lives.
As a cisgender gay man with a love of pop music and professional experience advancing racial justice, protecting children’s rights, defending civil liberties, and providing therapy at an LGBTQIA+ health center in Washington, DC, I show up as my authentic self as a therapist supporting clients across the spectrum of gender and sexuality.
Therapy with me is warm and genuine. Clients and I look into self-compassion, breaking patterns, exploring identities, getting in touch with and better handling emotions, unpacking shame and self-blame, and taking charge of life. Whether you feel held back by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, trauma, societal expectations, the stressors of life, or other causes not on that list, you have the power to gain a sense of clarity about who you are, what you want, and what changes you need to get there. Therapy provides a space for that power to emerge.
As a cisgender gay man with a love of pop music and professional experience advancing racial justice, protecting children’s rights, defending civil liberties, and providing therapy at an LGBTQIA+ health center in Washington, DC, I show up as my authentic self as a therapist supporting clients across the spectrum of gender and sexuality.
Therapy with me is warm and genuine. Clients and I look into self-compassion, breaking patterns, exploring identities, getting in touch with and better handling emotions, unpacking shame and self-blame, and taking charge of life. Whether you feel held back by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, trauma, societal expectations, the stressors of life, or other causes not on that list, you have the power to gain a sense of clarity about who you are, what you want, and what changes you need to get there. Therapy provides a space for that power to emerge.
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey toward greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey toward greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
David A Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in DC. My main areas of expertise are adults with substance use, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I'm great at listening, problem solving, stress-reduction techniques, creative writing, and cooking. I tend to utilize a combination of approaches, including psychodynamic, CBT, and holistic practices. Therapy is different for everyone, and I will work with you to find what works best for you and your goals. I can help you achieve your goals if you know what they are, and I can help you find your goals if you don't. Also, I frequently have evening session availabilities.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in DC. My main areas of expertise are adults with substance use, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I'm great at listening, problem solving, stress-reduction techniques, creative writing, and cooking. I tend to utilize a combination of approaches, including psychodynamic, CBT, and holistic practices. Therapy is different for everyone, and I will work with you to find what works best for you and your goals. I can help you achieve your goals if you know what they are, and I can help you find your goals if you don't. Also, I frequently have evening session availabilities.
I have a professional focus in working with members of LGBTQIA communities.
I started this virtual-based therapy practice so that I could connect with individuals struggling to feel connected in their lives. There are no judgements. Together, we can explore the resilience and strength you already have and take action towards a richer, fuller life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic mix of other evidence-informed interventions to support you and your goals.
I have a professional focus in working with members of LGBTQIA communities.
I started this virtual-based therapy practice so that I could connect with individuals struggling to feel connected in their lives. There are no judgements. Together, we can explore the resilience and strength you already have and take action towards a richer, fuller life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic mix of other evidence-informed interventions to support you and your goals.
Miranda Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008 (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I create a space where clients feel respected, understood and accepted for who they are, without judgment or bias.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I create a space where clients feel respected, understood and accepted for who they are, without judgment or bias.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
com If you are a LGBTQ or allied healthcare practitioner/healer/therapist looking for office space in a setting with like-minded professionals in Washington, DC, please visit www.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/ transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
com If you are a LGBTQ or allied healthcare practitioner/healer/therapist looking for office space in a setting with like-minded professionals in Washington, DC, please visit www.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/ transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I will walk alongside you as you process life transitions or grief/loss.
Moving through the ups and downs of life can be challenging. You might feel uncertain about who you are or where you are going. You might feel lonely or misunderstood. Maybe you feel stuck trying to move past painful experiences. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. I recognize how difficult it can be to find a therapist who gets it. I warmly welcome people from the queer community, black people, and people of color to contact me for services. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationships, or feeling isolated.
I will walk alongside you as you process life transitions or grief/loss.
Moving through the ups and downs of life can be challenging. You might feel uncertain about who you are or where you are going. You might feel lonely or misunderstood. Maybe you feel stuck trying to move past painful experiences. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. I recognize how difficult it can be to find a therapist who gets it. I warmly welcome people from the queer community, black people, and people of color to contact me for services. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationships, or feeling isolated.
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.