LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Oak Ridge, NC
Emilea Gross
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, NC 27310
I am queer-affirming and believe it is critical to develop authentic relationships.
I work with teens and adults to learn skills for embracing all parts of themselves, for bringing out and using their strengths, and for thriving in environments that may not be set up to appreciate and accommodate their unique way of being in the world. You don't have to hide who you are. Who you are is beautiful. I believe that deep and meaningful healing comes from bodies being able to be their full, integrated selves. Trauma can get in the way of this. Environments that are not affirming can get in the way of this. Education systems that do not accommodate the varied ways individuals learn can get in the way of this.
I am queer-affirming and believe it is critical to develop authentic relationships.
I work with teens and adults to learn skills for embracing all parts of themselves, for bringing out and using their strengths, and for thriving in environments that may not be set up to appreciate and accommodate their unique way of being in the world. You don't have to hide who you are. Who you are is beautiful. I believe that deep and meaningful healing comes from bodies being able to be their full, integrated selves. Trauma can get in the way of this. Environments that are not affirming can get in the way of this. Education systems that do not accommodate the varied ways individuals learn can get in the way of this.
Steven Alexander Wilson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, , LPCS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, NC 27310
Throughout the course of our lives, from childhood to adulthood, we can experience a wide range of issues – such as relationships, family, work, or school – that can potentially interfere with our level of functioning, productivity, or ability to feel generally happy. Some people are able to master these issues through their development as a person, but there are times or situations in which these issues become major hurdles. Our professional practice provides a confidential and safe atmosphere where we are able to guide each client toward possible solutions to problems and cultivate good coping skills for life’s future challenges.
Throughout the course of our lives, from childhood to adulthood, we can experience a wide range of issues – such as relationships, family, work, or school – that can potentially interfere with our level of functioning, productivity, or ability to feel generally happy. Some people are able to master these issues through their development as a person, but there are times or situations in which these issues become major hurdles. Our professional practice provides a confidential and safe atmosphere where we are able to guide each client toward possible solutions to problems and cultivate good coping skills for life’s future challenges.
Amy O'Hearn
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, NC 27310
Are you struggling with anxiety, social settings, negative self-talk, guilt, shame, or substance use? Would you like help developing healthy coping skills, learning how to change your self-talk and behaviors? Do you have difficulty feeling confident making choices in your life? Have you experienced a recent illness or health diagnosis that you are having difficulty processing? If so, I would love to help explore these areas with you and assist you in developing a plan that allows you to accomplish your goals. We will work together to develop a plan for you and allow you to persevere through your challenges.
Are you struggling with anxiety, social settings, negative self-talk, guilt, shame, or substance use? Would you like help developing healthy coping skills, learning how to change your self-talk and behaviors? Do you have difficulty feeling confident making choices in your life? Have you experienced a recent illness or health diagnosis that you are having difficulty processing? If so, I would love to help explore these areas with you and assist you in developing a plan that allows you to accomplish your goals. We will work together to develop a plan for you and allow you to persevere through your challenges.
Santos Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, NC 27310
You are searching for the right counselor! Text us at 336-663-6570 with your counseling questions. Since 2014, our office has specialized in working with individuals (kids, teens, and adults) seeking support in areas such as relationship counseling, anxiety and depression support, grief therapy, trauma healing, and other areas connected to mental health. Clients trust our commitment to providing personalized care, tailored to address their unique mental health needs. Your experience matters, and we invite you to reach out to us with any questions or to explore how our counseling office can support you to reach your therapy goals.
You are searching for the right counselor! Text us at 336-663-6570 with your counseling questions. Since 2014, our office has specialized in working with individuals (kids, teens, and adults) seeking support in areas such as relationship counseling, anxiety and depression support, grief therapy, trauma healing, and other areas connected to mental health. Clients trust our commitment to providing personalized care, tailored to address their unique mental health needs. Your experience matters, and we invite you to reach out to us with any questions or to explore how our counseling office can support you to reach your therapy goals.
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice catering to the counseling needs of adults in the Triad area. Our highly skilled therapists, all master's level-trained clinicians, bring over 30 years of combined experience in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and foster healing for those navigating depression, anxiety, and life's complex challenges. We are dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment, walking with you through your pain, stress, and struggles. We prioritize your well-being and personal growth to help you achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice catering to the counseling needs of adults in the Triad area. Our highly skilled therapists, all master's level-trained clinicians, bring over 30 years of combined experience in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and foster healing for those navigating depression, anxiety, and life's complex challenges. We are dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment, walking with you through your pain, stress, and struggles. We prioritize your well-being and personal growth to help you achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.
Holly Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, NC 27310
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Chronic Pain as well as Grief, Life Transitions, Caregiver Strain, Coping Skills, Stress Management, Self-esteem issues, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Anger Management and Faith integration, when requested.
Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you tend to think you have been buried. Perhaps you have been planted? My passion is to help you find what puts that sparkle back in your eyes. Sometimes life beats us down or perhaps you haven’t had the opportunity to discover your own inner beauty because your focus was on survival. My goal is to create a safe, authentic, non-judgmental space where individuals can be heard and supported so that healing may begin and your unique gifts and beauty will be discovered/rediscovered. I am here to help you not only navigate how to survive but to help you learn how to truly thrive!
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Chronic Pain as well as Grief, Life Transitions, Caregiver Strain, Coping Skills, Stress Management, Self-esteem issues, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Anger Management and Faith integration, when requested.
Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you tend to think you have been buried. Perhaps you have been planted? My passion is to help you find what puts that sparkle back in your eyes. Sometimes life beats us down or perhaps you haven’t had the opportunity to discover your own inner beauty because your focus was on survival. My goal is to create a safe, authentic, non-judgmental space where individuals can be heard and supported so that healing may begin and your unique gifts and beauty will be discovered/rediscovered. I am here to help you not only navigate how to survive but to help you learn how to truly thrive!
James Moses
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, NC 27310 (Online Only)
I have lengthy experience in collaborating with those challenged with managing depression, anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, acute psychiatric needs, life transitions, and SUD needs.
Knowing where to begin when seeking help with our personal struggles is, for most, a challenge in itself. Finding comfort in the familiarity of solitude and unhealthy means of managing our struggles is what we become accustomed to and feel a sense of security. Change and the uncertainty that creates, is where belief comes into play. Belief that life can be different, and that we ourselves are capable of taking the steps to change. I believe in individuals being their own greatest advocate and strive to create a safe space for them to navigate the challenges that have clouded their path.
I have lengthy experience in collaborating with those challenged with managing depression, anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, acute psychiatric needs, life transitions, and SUD needs.
Knowing where to begin when seeking help with our personal struggles is, for most, a challenge in itself. Finding comfort in the familiarity of solitude and unhealthy means of managing our struggles is what we become accustomed to and feel a sense of security. Change and the uncertainty that creates, is where belief comes into play. Belief that life can be different, and that we ourselves are capable of taking the steps to change. I believe in individuals being their own greatest advocate and strive to create a safe space for them to navigate the challenges that have clouded their path.
Now accepting new clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) . KAP can bring relief from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, & OCD. Effects post-treatment with KAP can include reduced depression & anxiety, an increased feeling of connectedness, and reduction in stress responses that often trigger mental and emotional discomfort. KAP is shown to reduce the frequency of treatments and create longer lasting effects by taking advantage of the neural plasticity induced by ketamine to create a canvas for change and relief. Here at Salem, we are proud to offer KAP for patients of Restorting Wellness Solutions in Winston-Salem
Now accepting new clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) . KAP can bring relief from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, & OCD. Effects post-treatment with KAP can include reduced depression & anxiety, an increased feeling of connectedness, and reduction in stress responses that often trigger mental and emotional discomfort. KAP is shown to reduce the frequency of treatments and create longer lasting effects by taking advantage of the neural plasticity induced by ketamine to create a canvas for change and relief. Here at Salem, we are proud to offer KAP for patients of Restorting Wellness Solutions in Winston-Salem
Jenna Amundson Moss
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, NC 27310 (Online Only)
Are your past, traumatic experiences or relationships, still impacting you? Negative effects of past trauma can cause you to feel disconnected from your self or others, stuck, heavy, exhausted, reactive, anxious, or depressed. If this sounds like you, I may be the right fit for you in exploring the current effects of your past, gaining skills to be more present and empowered, and collaborating on ways to increase your wellness and satisfaction. I use trauma informed, person-centered, multicultural, and psychodynamic interventions to support treatment, as well as have additional training and experience using EMDR.
Are your past, traumatic experiences or relationships, still impacting you? Negative effects of past trauma can cause you to feel disconnected from your self or others, stuck, heavy, exhausted, reactive, anxious, or depressed. If this sounds like you, I may be the right fit for you in exploring the current effects of your past, gaining skills to be more present and empowered, and collaborating on ways to increase your wellness and satisfaction. I use trauma informed, person-centered, multicultural, and psychodynamic interventions to support treatment, as well as have additional training and experience using EMDR.
More Therapists Nearby
Christien Harden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410 (Online Only)
While attending graduate school, my focuses were the LGBT community, Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and Substance Use Disorders.
Hello! My name is Christien Harden, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NC and VA), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (NC) and Certified Clinical Supervisor (NC). It is my wish to assist those struggling with mental health and substance use issues by providing an experienced, caring atmosphere to grow and heal. Overall, I want to talk about the matters that matter to you. Life isn't always easy but, it should not always be a struggle.
While attending graduate school, my focuses were the LGBT community, Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and Substance Use Disorders.
Hello! My name is Christien Harden, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NC and VA), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (NC) and Certified Clinical Supervisor (NC). It is my wish to assist those struggling with mental health and substance use issues by providing an experienced, caring atmosphere to grow and heal. Overall, I want to talk about the matters that matter to you. Life isn't always easy but, it should not always be a struggle.
I started Moonbow Mental Health to help queer folks heal from systemic trauma by targeting harmful thought patterns that interfere with building self-compassion, developing assertive communication skills, and providing support that focuses on gentleness, care, and respect for each unique perspective.
Painful experiences can imprint on our brains and alter our perspective of our strength and ability. Yet our largest impediment to change is often being unseen and not validated for who we are. My work focuses on creating room for clients to live authentically and teaching them to take up space in their own lives without apologizing.
I started Moonbow Mental Health to help queer folks heal from systemic trauma by targeting harmful thought patterns that interfere with building self-compassion, developing assertive communication skills, and providing support that focuses on gentleness, care, and respect for each unique perspective.
Painful experiences can imprint on our brains and alter our perspective of our strength and ability. Yet our largest impediment to change is often being unseen and not validated for who we are. My work focuses on creating room for clients to live authentically and teaching them to take up space in their own lives without apologizing.
Tracy Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
I believe it is essential for therapists to be anti-racist, queer- and trans-affirming, and inclusive of all bodies, all brains, and all abilities.
Are you hoping to find a therapist with lived experience of being LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent? Your whole self is welcome here. I'm queer and ADHD myself, and my office is an affirming space where your identity is respected and eye contact is not required. I use flexible therapeutic methods that can be adjusted to meet your specific needs and preferences, including person-centered talk therapy, expressive arts, sandtray therapy, and Brainspotting.
I believe it is essential for therapists to be anti-racist, queer- and trans-affirming, and inclusive of all bodies, all brains, and all abilities.
Are you hoping to find a therapist with lived experience of being LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent? Your whole self is welcome here. I'm queer and ADHD myself, and my office is an affirming space where your identity is respected and eye contact is not required. I use flexible therapeutic methods that can be adjusted to meet your specific needs and preferences, including person-centered talk therapy, expressive arts, sandtray therapy, and Brainspotting.
Jacy King Working With Adults - Families -Teens
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I'd be honored to go on this mission with you and look forward to watching you achieve your goals! I incorporate a safe LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC-affirming space.
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families seeking to improve relationships (with themselves and others), family dynamics, emotional well-being, anger/stress management, parenting, and anxiety/depression. My counseling approach incorporates techniques that emphasize healthy communication, trust-building, and the teaching of effective coping skills. Text me at 336-663-6570 with your counseling questions.
I'd be honored to go on this mission with you and look forward to watching you achieve your goals! I incorporate a safe LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC-affirming space.
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families seeking to improve relationships (with themselves and others), family dynamics, emotional well-being, anger/stress management, parenting, and anxiety/depression. My counseling approach incorporates techniques that emphasize healthy communication, trust-building, and the teaching of effective coping skills. Text me at 336-663-6570 with your counseling questions.
Together, we can explore questions of meaning, purpose, and identity, as well as the complexities of personal growth, self-awareness, and life transitions.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Rowe, and I am an LCMHCA who is dedicated to incorporating movement, mindfulness, and somatic awareness with those who have experienced trauma. I believe incorporating the body into treatment is a vital element to mental health and the therapeutic process. With a passion for helping individuals navigate their personal journeys, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I have worked extensively with youth and aging populations in group and individual settings, neurodivergent folks as well as LGBTQ+ adolescents and adults.
Together, we can explore questions of meaning, purpose, and identity, as well as the complexities of personal growth, self-awareness, and life transitions.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Rowe, and I am an LCMHCA who is dedicated to incorporating movement, mindfulness, and somatic awareness with those who have experienced trauma. I believe incorporating the body into treatment is a vital element to mental health and the therapeutic process. With a passion for helping individuals navigate their personal journeys, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I have worked extensively with youth and aging populations in group and individual settings, neurodivergent folks as well as LGBTQ+ adolescents and adults.
Renee Heagney
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Hi, my name is Renee Heagney, LCMHC. I earned my degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist. I also have training in adaptive yoga interventions. My work experience has been in hospitals, schools, and community mental health settings. I am rostered to provide TF-CBT, and specialize in treating trauma and working with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi, my name is Renee Heagney, LCMHC. I earned my degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist. I also have training in adaptive yoga interventions. My work experience has been in hospitals, schools, and community mental health settings. I am rostered to provide TF-CBT, and specialize in treating trauma and working with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Jean Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410 (Online Only)
Jean Mitchell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 23 years of direct clinical services and social work business management experience. Jean places importance on working with diverse populations of individuals and has respect for and sensitivity to cultural differences. Jean's practice areas are individual and group mental/behavioral health services, substance use treatment services, life skills coaching and education, LGBTQ+ issues, domestic violence, women's issues, adolescents, and grief and aging issues. Jean received a Joint MSW from North Carolina A&T State University and the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.
Jean Mitchell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 23 years of direct clinical services and social work business management experience. Jean places importance on working with diverse populations of individuals and has respect for and sensitivity to cultural differences. Jean's practice areas are individual and group mental/behavioral health services, substance use treatment services, life skills coaching and education, LGBTQ+ issues, domestic violence, women's issues, adolescents, and grief and aging issues. Jean received a Joint MSW from North Carolina A&T State University and the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.
Hi! I’m Clint, a cisgender LGBTQ+ therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina, and I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings at community clinics and hospital systems in Winston-Salem, NC. I make it my mission to partner with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use and mental health issues by offering a safe, supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.
Hi! I’m Clint, a cisgender LGBTQ+ therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina, and I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings at community clinics and hospital systems in Winston-Salem, NC. I make it my mission to partner with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use and mental health issues by offering a safe, supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.
Will Krause
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach reflects integrative training in Client-Centered, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, Grief and Loss, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and utilize a Humanistic approach.
I am often asked why I chose to be a therapist. My answer is always the same. I understand what it feels like to go through something difficult, new, or challenging alone. Therapy is my passion, and serving as a guide/supportive presence to help clients reach their goals is my sole purpose in treatment. I believe that every client is an expert regarding their life experiences. Therefore, therapy is a collaborative effort, so I am always open to feedback from clients in order to provide the best service for each individual.
My therapeutic approach reflects integrative training in Client-Centered, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, Grief and Loss, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and utilize a Humanistic approach.
I am often asked why I chose to be a therapist. My answer is always the same. I understand what it feels like to go through something difficult, new, or challenging alone. Therapy is my passion, and serving as a guide/supportive presence to help clients reach their goals is my sole purpose in treatment. I believe that every client is an expert regarding their life experiences. Therefore, therapy is a collaborative effort, so I am always open to feedback from clients in order to provide the best service for each individual.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those who are neurodivergent, and individuals dealing with addictions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, and body positivity.
Do you ever feel like everyone around you is completing some assignment you didn’t get? Or feel overwhelmed by everything life throws at you? If so, you’ve come to the right place. I provide compassionate, client-centered care with a foundation in clinical social work & a commitment to social justice. I create a safe, inclusive environment where all individuals are respected & valued. Using somatic & trauma-informed approaches, I support clients in honing positive coping skills & empower them to take charge of their healing journey.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those who are neurodivergent, and individuals dealing with addictions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, and body positivity.
Do you ever feel like everyone around you is completing some assignment you didn’t get? Or feel overwhelmed by everything life throws at you? If so, you’ve come to the right place. I provide compassionate, client-centered care with a foundation in clinical social work & a commitment to social justice. I create a safe, inclusive environment where all individuals are respected & valued. Using somatic & trauma-informed approaches, I support clients in honing positive coping skills & empower them to take charge of their healing journey.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, processing your place/space in the LGBTQ+ community or dealing with infertility/Postpartum Depression concerns, I want to meet YOU where YOU are, while providing what YOU need!.
Now Accepting New Clients: Are you on your personal journey of self-discovery and want to live “your” best life? Do you find it difficult identifying with your “true self”? As a Inclusive Therapist, Woman, Person of Color (POC), Advocate, Community Influencer, Counseling Supervisor, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have gained knowledge through my experiences that can help others be in control of their own LIFE. I am aware of how important support and compassion are to move through life’s journey.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, processing your place/space in the LGBTQ+ community or dealing with infertility/Postpartum Depression concerns, I want to meet YOU where YOU are, while providing what YOU need!.
Now Accepting New Clients: Are you on your personal journey of self-discovery and want to live “your” best life? Do you find it difficult identifying with your “true self”? As a Inclusive Therapist, Woman, Person of Color (POC), Advocate, Community Influencer, Counseling Supervisor, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have gained knowledge through my experiences that can help others be in control of their own LIFE. I am aware of how important support and compassion are to move through life’s journey.
See more therapy options for Oak Ridge
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Oak Ridge
- Archdale
- Clemmons
- Greensboro
- High Point
- Jamestown
- Kernersville
- King
- Lewisville
- Reidsville
- Summerfield
- Thomasville
- Winston Salem
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.