Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
Mordechai (Motti) Polityko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036 (Online Only)
My experience with overcoming adversity, loss, and trauma makes me singularly attuned to the suffering of others.
Serenity, Equanimity, Peace of Mind. Are these qualities sorely missing from your life? You are not alone. Most Westerners experience rushed living, lack of acceptance, anxious and depressed mood - what inevitably amounts to suffering. While pain is a universal experience, with practice suffering can become optional. But lack of skill, low motivation, and general haggardness of life prevent many from consistent self-care which can alleviate suffering. If this is your story, The Serenity Center was opened with you in mind. Reducing suffering to manageable levels is an achievable goal - and all you may need is a skillful guide.
My experience with overcoming adversity, loss, and trauma makes me singularly attuned to the suffering of others.
Serenity, Equanimity, Peace of Mind. Are these qualities sorely missing from your life? You are not alone. Most Westerners experience rushed living, lack of acceptance, anxious and depressed mood - what inevitably amounts to suffering. While pain is a universal experience, with practice suffering can become optional. But lack of skill, low motivation, and general haggardness of life prevent many from consistent self-care which can alleviate suffering. If this is your story, The Serenity Center was opened with you in mind. Reducing suffering to manageable levels is an achievable goal - and all you may need is a skillful guide.
Jena Moch
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Are you experiencing a big life transition? Have you experienced a loss? Or maybe just need a little extra support and guidance? As your therapist, I will approach challenges with an open mind and seek to meet you where you are at. My hope is for clients to walk away from sessions feeling heard and seen. I became a therapist to be able to provide a safe space for individuals to process life’s twists and turns in addition to helping clients find their inner truths. Clients like you find me to be warm, authentic and supportive.
Are you experiencing a big life transition? Have you experienced a loss? Or maybe just need a little extra support and guidance? As your therapist, I will approach challenges with an open mind and seek to meet you where you are at. My hope is for clients to walk away from sessions feeling heard and seen. I became a therapist to be able to provide a safe space for individuals to process life’s twists and turns in addition to helping clients find their inner truths. Clients like you find me to be warm, authentic and supportive.
Donna El-Armale, LMFT aka HealthYou Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Specializing in trauma and grief/loss, I provide compassionate therapy tailored to your needs.
As your therapist, I specialize in helping you identify and overcome the obstacles standing in the way of your happiness. Together, we'll work to dismantle these barriers and explore alternative paths to fulfillment. I'll assist you in recognizing what's effective, what's not, and what's preventing you from implementing positive changes in your life. Through our collaborative efforts, you'll uncover new coping mechanisms to navigate through challenges and equip yourself with valuable tools for ongoing growth and resilience.
Specializing in trauma and grief/loss, I provide compassionate therapy tailored to your needs.
As your therapist, I specialize in helping you identify and overcome the obstacles standing in the way of your happiness. Together, we'll work to dismantle these barriers and explore alternative paths to fulfillment. I'll assist you in recognizing what's effective, what's not, and what's preventing you from implementing positive changes in your life. Through our collaborative efforts, you'll uncover new coping mechanisms to navigate through challenges and equip yourself with valuable tools for ongoing growth and resilience.
Michelle MacElvaine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I have worked with clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, grief or loss issues, sexual assault victims, domestic violence, and separation issues.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist providing services to clients within the State of California. I have over 19 years of experience providing services to adults, children, couples, families, and groups in a variety of settings. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for clients while using a combination of client-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral modalities. The most common approaches used will include but not be limited to client-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I have worked with clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, grief or loss issues, sexual assault victims, domestic violence, and separation issues.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist providing services to clients within the State of California. I have over 19 years of experience providing services to adults, children, couples, families, and groups in a variety of settings. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for clients while using a combination of client-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral modalities. The most common approaches used will include but not be limited to client-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Douye' D Youduba-Tantua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Psychological Associate with expertise and advanced training in evidence-based practices. I have extensive experience working with adults and older adults who are experiencing challenges related to mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma-related issues, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational and attachment challenges, stress and stress-related concerns, and trauma issues. and grief and loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Psychological Associate with expertise and advanced training in evidence-based practices. I have extensive experience working with adults and older adults who are experiencing challenges related to mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma-related issues, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational and attachment challenges, stress and stress-related concerns, and trauma issues. and grief and loss.
Gloria Rojas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90033
My areas of interest and experience include treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, grief, acute stress, adjustment, women's issues, generational trauma, and cultural issues.
Hello! My name is Gloria Rojas and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe space to process, heal and rebuild. My services can be provided in English and Spanish and include interventions to identify the problem, find solutions, coping techniques, relaxation/stress management skills, goal setting, task management, insight, and skill building. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Problem-Solving Treatment, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
My areas of interest and experience include treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, grief, acute stress, adjustment, women's issues, generational trauma, and cultural issues.
Hello! My name is Gloria Rojas and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe space to process, heal and rebuild. My services can be provided in English and Spanish and include interventions to identify the problem, find solutions, coping techniques, relaxation/stress management skills, goal setting, task management, insight, and skill building. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Problem-Solving Treatment, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Dr. Anselmo Brillon Jr
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPC, LPCC, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Anselmo. Do you struggle to maintain relationships? Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Do you need help managing your grief or PTSD?
Hello, I am Anselmo. Do you struggle to maintain relationships? Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Do you need help managing your grief or PTSD?
Katie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I have extensive experience with addiction as well as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, self-esteem, life transitions, LGBTQIA, family issues, grief and loss, anger management, and stress management.
My goal is to provide you a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore the issues you are struggling with and create a plan on how we can resolve those issues together so you can live your best life. I take a holistic, client-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to ensure I am meeting your specific needs. I provide supportive and evidenced based practices to my clients and have worked with both adolescents and adults, utilizing various modalities.
I have extensive experience with addiction as well as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, self-esteem, life transitions, LGBTQIA, family issues, grief and loss, anger management, and stress management.
My goal is to provide you a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore the issues you are struggling with and create a plan on how we can resolve those issues together so you can live your best life. I take a holistic, client-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to ensure I am meeting your specific needs. I provide supportive and evidenced based practices to my clients and have worked with both adolescents and adults, utilizing various modalities.
Heather Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012 (Online Only)
I have nearly 19 years of experience and specialize in grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, phase of life issues, peer relationships, coping skills, stress identification and reduction, trauma, and women's issues.
Thank you for taking the first step and being here. Are you experiencing hurdles in life such as work stress, family issues, or relationship difficulties/issues? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma or grief? Do you often find it difficult to find the words to describe your feelings? Or to open up to people and feel a connection with them? Most likely, you've answered yes to at least one of these areas of concern. You are not alone; in the emotions, experiences, and pain that comes with life. I believe that every person who seeks counseling has their own answers to their unique situations.
I have nearly 19 years of experience and specialize in grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, phase of life issues, peer relationships, coping skills, stress identification and reduction, trauma, and women's issues.
Thank you for taking the first step and being here. Are you experiencing hurdles in life such as work stress, family issues, or relationship difficulties/issues? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma or grief? Do you often find it difficult to find the words to describe your feelings? Or to open up to people and feel a connection with them? Most likely, you've answered yes to at least one of these areas of concern. You are not alone; in the emotions, experiences, and pain that comes with life. I believe that every person who seeks counseling has their own answers to their unique situations.
Micah K. Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
I specialize in personalized grief, trauma, addiction, and loss treatment.
By working together and considering your input, we can effectively tackle any concerns and fulfill your needs to achieve your goals. As Viktor Frankl stated, "Everything can be taken from a person but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's way."
I specialize in personalized grief, trauma, addiction, and loss treatment.
By working together and considering your input, we can effectively tackle any concerns and fulfill your needs to achieve your goals. As Viktor Frankl stated, "Everything can be taken from a person but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's way."
Sherman Oaks Mental Health Group GP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90077
I am an LCSW with almost 30 years of experience in treating clients with anxiety, depression, addictions, grief and loss, animal companion losses, LGBTQ identity, and the unique needs of the artistic personality. I work with great sensitivity, empathy, and compassion for those who come to me in pain, seeking relief from those conflicts that weigh you down and prevent you from reaching your maximum potential and dignity as worthy and valuable human beings. I am also an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in treating a variety of simple and complex traumas.
I am an LCSW with almost 30 years of experience in treating clients with anxiety, depression, addictions, grief and loss, animal companion losses, LGBTQ identity, and the unique needs of the artistic personality. I work with great sensitivity, empathy, and compassion for those who come to me in pain, seeking relief from those conflicts that weigh you down and prevent you from reaching your maximum potential and dignity as worthy and valuable human beings. I am also an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in treating a variety of simple and complex traumas.
15 Second Videos
Mordechai (Motti) Polityko
Micah K. Carlson
Magdalena Werne
Silver Lake Psychology
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Brandy Dunn
Heather L. Damon
Heather Elizabeth Thomas
Steven C Kassel
Cat Bilski
Joanna Mary Saporito, LCSW A Professional Corp.
Chad McCain
Craig Rothhammer
Kambria Caldwell
Maria Vogel
Elham Shoa
Quinney & Associates Inc
Kristen Gardenhire Mihara
Ryan Grady
Meridian Counseling: Individual & Family Therapy
April Delgadillo-Jolley
Sostenes Lima
Amy VanBecelaere
Susette A Gonzalez
Leah Matson Ph.D.
Erica Lima
Katie Fenton-Strauss
Dr. Thomas O' Malley & Associates
Married to Navy Counseling Services
Pauline Garabet McFarland
Porta Verum Psychotherapy Services
Laure Saint Georges Chaumet
Candy Taylor-Ceballos
Leonidas Gkimisis
Svanfridur 'swany' Arnardottir
Alique Bedikian
Multicultural Services, Prof Corp
Mary N Parker
Phil Takakjian
Pamela Hayes Malkoff
Mark D Graham
Ahneishia Washington
Anna Major
Amber Keating
Angela Repetti Miller
Jasmine N Gibson
Kris Winslow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
I specialize in trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
Jessica Lynne Fonte
Licensed Professional Counselor, Fonte
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I am comfortable working with a variety of diagnoses as well as people going through grief or temporary setbacks.
My name is Jessica Fonte. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in California and have been practicing for over 15 years. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, but the core of my practice is Client-Centered Therapy. My practice has been centered around children and adults with a focus on trauma, transitions, and supporting others to live their best lives. The most common theoretical approaches that I use for therapy are Client-Centered, Solution Focused, Family Systems, CBT, Trauma Focused, and Mindfulness.
I am comfortable working with a variety of diagnoses as well as people going through grief or temporary setbacks.
My name is Jessica Fonte. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in California and have been practicing for over 15 years. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, but the core of my practice is Client-Centered Therapy. My practice has been centered around children and adults with a focus on trauma, transitions, and supporting others to live their best lives. The most common theoretical approaches that I use for therapy are Client-Centered, Solution Focused, Family Systems, CBT, Trauma Focused, and Mindfulness.
Gerald Monk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
I help clients with relationship issues, parenting challenges, family conflicts, those coping with grief and loss, and couples counseling.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2006. I was a registered psychologist, counselor, and family mediator in New Zealand before moving to the United States as a professor in marriage and family therapy at San Diego State University. I worked and trained in educational psychology before being immersed in narrative therapy, narrative mediation, and solution-focused therapy in the 1990s. I have worked a lot in schools with children and teens, addressed parenting challenges, helped blended families address unique crises that arise, help clients with separation and divorce.
I help clients with relationship issues, parenting challenges, family conflicts, those coping with grief and loss, and couples counseling.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2006. I was a registered psychologist, counselor, and family mediator in New Zealand before moving to the United States as a professor in marriage and family therapy at San Diego State University. I worked and trained in educational psychology before being immersed in narrative therapy, narrative mediation, and solution-focused therapy in the 1990s. I have worked a lot in schools with children and teens, addressed parenting challenges, helped blended families address unique crises that arise, help clients with separation and divorce.
Rosana Alaniz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011 (Online Only)
I'm truly honored to meet you. As a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my passion lies in supporting individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, pain management, and grief. With a foundation in Psychology, a Master's in Social Work (MSW), and certification as an End-of-life Doula, I bring a unique blend of expertise and compassion to our work together.
I'm truly honored to meet you. As a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my passion lies in supporting individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, pain management, and grief. With a foundation in Psychology, a Master's in Social Work (MSW), and certification as an End-of-life Doula, I bring a unique blend of expertise and compassion to our work together.
Carlos Haber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I provide individual, and couple therapy, including treatment for depression, anxiety, and I help patients work through a variety of other issues: grief and mourning, family/relationship conflicts, issues around infidelity, sexuality and coming out, and mood disorders.
With over twenty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. For me, therapy is about providing a safe, non-judgmental space, free from social pressures and prejudices, and labels. I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions and think and work together to craft answers. I have different approaches according to the patient's necessities. I was trained in psychoanalysis, CBT, trauma focus, EFT, mindfulness, and attachment theory, among other therapeutic interventions.
I provide individual, and couple therapy, including treatment for depression, anxiety, and I help patients work through a variety of other issues: grief and mourning, family/relationship conflicts, issues around infidelity, sexuality and coming out, and mood disorders.
With over twenty years of experience in a practice focusing primarily on personal issues and improving relationships. For me, therapy is about providing a safe, non-judgmental space, free from social pressures and prejudices, and labels. I see therapy as a partnership and dialogue between the therapist and the patient, where together we tackle challenges and questions and think and work together to craft answers. I have different approaches according to the patient's necessities. I was trained in psychoanalysis, CBT, trauma focus, EFT, mindfulness, and attachment theory, among other therapeutic interventions.
Yasuko Mikajiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016 (Online Only)
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
Maria Lamas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90033
I currently work with individuals and families navigating issues including anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, relationships, grief and loss, and trauma.
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker certified in Individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with more than half a decade of experience working with youth, adults, and older adults in both English and Spanish. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the California State University of Fullerton, specializing in community mental health.
I currently work with individuals and families navigating issues including anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, relationships, grief and loss, and trauma.
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker certified in Individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with more than half a decade of experience working with youth, adults, and older adults in both English and Spanish. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the California State University of Fullerton, specializing in community mental health.
Rachel Rankin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Thank you for visiting my page today. I look forward to learning about you and hope I can help you on your journey of self-discovery. Navigating life after trauma, grief, or any life adjustment can bring a plethora of emotions to the surface in ways that can feel isolating and stressful. Whether it be anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or interpersonal relationship stress, talk therapy can help to find yourself again. Although I am passionate about helping those affected by Complex PTSD, Anxiety, Addiction, and Eating Disorders, I utilize DBT, CBT, and Narrative techniques for all my clients in an effort to find peace.
Thank you for visiting my page today. I look forward to learning about you and hope I can help you on your journey of self-discovery. Navigating life after trauma, grief, or any life adjustment can bring a plethora of emotions to the surface in ways that can feel isolating and stressful. Whether it be anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or interpersonal relationship stress, talk therapy can help to find yourself again. Although I am passionate about helping those affected by Complex PTSD, Anxiety, Addiction, and Eating Disorders, I utilize DBT, CBT, and Narrative techniques for all my clients in an effort to find peace.
Megan Seco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90063
My name is Megan Seco (She/Her) and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, CA, and currently offering telehealth services. I work with adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma and specialize in working with the LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, and BIPOC communities. I have found my style and approach is most effective for individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, Trauma (CPTSD/PTSD), grief and loss, attachment, and codependency challenges. I often work with LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, and individuals navigating within marginalized communities.
My name is Megan Seco (She/Her) and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, CA, and currently offering telehealth services. I work with adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma and specialize in working with the LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, and BIPOC communities. I have found my style and approach is most effective for individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, Trauma (CPTSD/PTSD), grief and loss, attachment, and codependency challenges. I often work with LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, and individuals navigating within marginalized communities.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
Nearby Grief Therapists Searches for Los Angeles
- Baldwin Hills
- Beverly Hills
- Culver City
- Glassell Park
- Hollywood
- Huntington Park
- Leimert Park
- Playa Vista
- Silver Lake
- View Park
- West Hollywood
- Windsor Hills
Grief Therapists
How long does therapy take for grief?
There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.
When should you seek therapy for grief?
Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.
Can grief be managed without therapy?
Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.
What happens if grief is left untreated?
Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.