Photo of Helen Elizabeth Shamis, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Helen Elizabeth Shamis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
My treatment specialties include individuals with eating disorders and those experiencing grief and loss.
My treatment approach is best described as strength-based. I believe that we come to even our most challenging moments, with the best of intentions. When a client chooses me as their therapist, they provide themselves with a dedicated, judgment-free professional who believes in their ability to guide their own journey. If you are at your most vulnerable or in the darkest of places, there is always hope. Both short-term and long-term therapy is available.
My treatment specialties include individuals with eating disorders and those experiencing grief and loss.
My treatment approach is best described as strength-based. I believe that we come to even our most challenging moments, with the best of intentions. When a client chooses me as their therapist, they provide themselves with a dedicated, judgment-free professional who believes in their ability to guide their own journey. If you are at your most vulnerable or in the darkest of places, there is always hope. Both short-term and long-term therapy is available.
(415) 877-6328 View (415) 877-6328
Photo of Nate Hinerman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nate Hinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Hinerman's research and treatment approaches often intermingle philosophical and psychological approaches to topics such as human suffering, dying, loss, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
Hinerman's research and treatment approaches often intermingle philosophical and psychological approaches to topics such as human suffering, dying, loss, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
(628) 215-8084 View (628) 215-8084
Photo of Zack O Oelerich, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Zack O Oelerich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94129
My philosophy builds on unique strengths and sensitivities of each individual. Taking a supportive coaching role and utilizing a psychotherapeutic framework, I help clients develop and successfully execute their goals while developing a better understanding of social nuance in relationships and in the complex group dynamics of their home and work environments. My psychotherapy practice supports neurodivergent adults integrating their gifts amidst the challenges of great sensitivity and intelligence and is uniquely suited for midlife adults approaching transitions, relationship or career changes, birth, death and divorce.
My philosophy builds on unique strengths and sensitivities of each individual. Taking a supportive coaching role and utilizing a psychotherapeutic framework, I help clients develop and successfully execute their goals while developing a better understanding of social nuance in relationships and in the complex group dynamics of their home and work environments. My psychotherapy practice supports neurodivergent adults integrating their gifts amidst the challenges of great sensitivity and intelligence and is uniquely suited for midlife adults approaching transitions, relationship or career changes, birth, death and divorce.
(925) 892-3090 View (925) 892-3090
Photo of Sarah Stroe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sarah Stroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I’m so glad to meet you. Many clients come to see me because they are experiencing loss, serious or chronic illness, or struggling with grief. Others have a sense that something is not right. I have specific experience and training in geriatric social work and nearly a decade of experience helping individuals and their families navigate psychosocial challenges of grief, loss and serious illness. I can also help with conceptualizing end of life wishes and legacy work.
I’m so glad to meet you. Many clients come to see me because they are experiencing loss, serious or chronic illness, or struggling with grief. Others have a sense that something is not right. I have specific experience and training in geriatric social work and nearly a decade of experience helping individuals and their families navigate psychosocial challenges of grief, loss and serious illness. I can also help with conceptualizing end of life wishes and legacy work.
(628) 277-5785 View (628) 277-5785
Photo of John Mark Krejci, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
John Mark Krejci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of trauma, grief, and loss (deaths, breakups/divorce, etc.
Hello! What if you woke up tomorrow and all your difficulties disappeared? Though hard to imagine, envisioning how you'd like your life to be is the first step in finding solutions. After hearing your story, I focus on strengths (in individuals and couples), and help you see the possibilities for positive change. This can be difficult for anxious or depressed clients, but I find it a good start. I embrace the role of authentic, non-judgmental collaborator. I use techniques that can immediately reduce anxiety, and I show clients that depression is treatable.
Specializing in the treatment of trauma, grief, and loss (deaths, breakups/divorce, etc.
Hello! What if you woke up tomorrow and all your difficulties disappeared? Though hard to imagine, envisioning how you'd like your life to be is the first step in finding solutions. After hearing your story, I focus on strengths (in individuals and couples), and help you see the possibilities for positive change. This can be difficult for anxious or depressed clients, but I find it a good start. I embrace the role of authentic, non-judgmental collaborator. I use techniques that can immediately reduce anxiety, and I show clients that depression is treatable.
(341) 444-2386 View (341) 444-2386
Photo of Andrea De Leon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Andrea De Leon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I work with clients navigating relationship issues (including ENM and interracial dynamics), identity exploration, grief & loss, and life transitions.
Modern dating and relationships have become a tumultuous territory of uncertainty, miscommunication, rampant ghosting and infidelity. Friendships have become increasingly harder to navigate, and the desire to build and maintain community remains higher than ever. The state of the world has left us feeling helpless. We may feel disconnected from our families, our peers, our jobs, our personal identities, and our places in society. While it may be hard to process and express these experiences with others and even with ourselves... I am here with you.
I work with clients navigating relationship issues (including ENM and interracial dynamics), identity exploration, grief & loss, and life transitions.
Modern dating and relationships have become a tumultuous territory of uncertainty, miscommunication, rampant ghosting and infidelity. Friendships have become increasingly harder to navigate, and the desire to build and maintain community remains higher than ever. The state of the world has left us feeling helpless. We may feel disconnected from our families, our peers, our jobs, our personal identities, and our places in society. While it may be hard to process and express these experiences with others and even with ourselves... I am here with you.
(415) 915-0379 View (415) 915-0379
Photo of Amy Hyun Swart, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Amy Hyun Swart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
We are living in challenging times. When a heartbreaking loss knocks us down to the ground, or a trauma from the past gets activated from a recent event, it can feel unbearable to cope with all that is already happening in the world. In our work together, we will bring the healing power of awareness to the discomfort in a safe and supportive setting to help you increase your capacity to be with the pain, and move through it. So often we are unaware of the patterns we hold in our bodies and minds that keep us stuck. Together we can shed light on what is happening so you can choose how you want to respond and show up in your life.
We are living in challenging times. When a heartbreaking loss knocks us down to the ground, or a trauma from the past gets activated from a recent event, it can feel unbearable to cope with all that is already happening in the world. In our work together, we will bring the healing power of awareness to the discomfort in a safe and supportive setting to help you increase your capacity to be with the pain, and move through it. So often we are unaware of the patterns we hold in our bodies and minds that keep us stuck. Together we can shed light on what is happening so you can choose how you want to respond and show up in your life.
(650) 295-0420 View (650) 295-0420
Photo of Erica Edwards Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Erica Edwards Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
I specialize in supporting clients who wish to explore issues regarding grief, relationship stress, self acceptance, cultural/ racial identity, creativity and artistry, anxiety management, life transitions, depression, hoarding, and cultivating mindfulness,.
I believe each of us can lead lives of authenticity, balance, and purpose through mindfulness and self-reflection. I aim to create a warm, peaceful space for healing and awakening, a place where you can slow down your breath, calm the chattering of your mind, and get in touch with the deeper parts of yourself. My goal is to empower you to be your own compass and access your own inner strength and resilience. We all need someone we can count on: to listen, to try to understand, and to walk side by side as we travel rocky terrain. I would be honored to go on that journey with you.
I specialize in supporting clients who wish to explore issues regarding grief, relationship stress, self acceptance, cultural/ racial identity, creativity and artistry, anxiety management, life transitions, depression, hoarding, and cultivating mindfulness,.
I believe each of us can lead lives of authenticity, balance, and purpose through mindfulness and self-reflection. I aim to create a warm, peaceful space for healing and awakening, a place where you can slow down your breath, calm the chattering of your mind, and get in touch with the deeper parts of yourself. My goal is to empower you to be your own compass and access your own inner strength and resilience. We all need someone we can count on: to listen, to try to understand, and to walk side by side as we travel rocky terrain. I would be honored to go on that journey with you.
(415) 942-5784 View (415) 942-5784
Photo of Ashley Singh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ashley Singh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
The heart of my work centers around adults of the South Asian Diaspora. My goal in emphasizing my practice here is to recognize a need for folks to have a therapist who truly understands their background and can create safety in talking about parts of the culture that can feel shameful or misunderstood from a Western perspective. The most common areas of focus include family of origin issues, intergenerational trauma and creating space to heal your inner child, acknowledging your grief, exploring your TRUE identity, and cultivating positive relationships by creating boundaries and building self-esteem + confidence.
The heart of my work centers around adults of the South Asian Diaspora. My goal in emphasizing my practice here is to recognize a need for folks to have a therapist who truly understands their background and can create safety in talking about parts of the culture that can feel shameful or misunderstood from a Western perspective. The most common areas of focus include family of origin issues, intergenerational trauma and creating space to heal your inner child, acknowledging your grief, exploring your TRUE identity, and cultivating positive relationships by creating boundaries and building self-esteem + confidence.
(415) 926-2202 x1 View (415) 926-2202 x1
Photo of Maureen Mccracken, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Maureen Mccracken
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you're in the middle of one of life's "necessary changes," or struggling with starting on your path in the world, regarding purpose,meaning, and making a living. Perhaps you're trying to "reboot" after a loss, illness, or other life-changing experience, or trying to adjust and move forward in the midst of mid-life transition. As your therapist, I will meet you where you are at, and team up with you to create a life in which you find meaning, joy, and fulfillment.
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you're in the middle of one of life's "necessary changes," or struggling with starting on your path in the world, regarding purpose,meaning, and making a living. Perhaps you're trying to "reboot" after a loss, illness, or other life-changing experience, or trying to adjust and move forward in the midst of mid-life transition. As your therapist, I will meet you where you are at, and team up with you to create a life in which you find meaning, joy, and fulfillment.
(415) 683-3077 View (415) 683-3077
Photo of Mackenzie Studebaker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Mackenzie Studebaker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with folks experiencing life transitions, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and supporting clients who desire a greater sense of overall well-being and ease in their lives.
Welcome! As a holistic psychotherapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe environment for you to show up just as you are and feel held and supported in your process. In the therapeutic space, all aspects of yourself are welcomed - even the parts that challenge you. I bring humility, curiosity, reverence and a sense of humor to this work. I believe you are the expert of your experience and I am here to support you every step of the way. My clinical approach is enriched and informed by 10+ years of teaching yoga and meditation in private practice.
I specialize in working with folks experiencing life transitions, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and supporting clients who desire a greater sense of overall well-being and ease in their lives.
Welcome! As a holistic psychotherapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe environment for you to show up just as you are and feel held and supported in your process. In the therapeutic space, all aspects of yourself are welcomed - even the parts that challenge you. I bring humility, curiosity, reverence and a sense of humor to this work. I believe you are the expert of your experience and I am here to support you every step of the way. My clinical approach is enriched and informed by 10+ years of teaching yoga and meditation in private practice.
(415) 881-5703 View (415) 881-5703
Photo of Jen Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jen Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
I am trained in grief work, stress reduction techniques, expressive arts therapy, craniosacral therapy, herbology and hatha yoga.
Welcome to my practice. I am a heart-centered therapist who works collaboratively with you. This work supports you in finding the roots of self- limiting beliefs and relationship patterns, and provides tools and techniques for healing, which gives way to inner clarity and freedom. When you are connected to your inner wisdom and intelligence, your life becomes healthy and grounded, relationships are more intimate and loving, and quality of life becomes richer. I use a holistic body-heart-and soul approach with those who are committed to growth and healing.
I am trained in grief work, stress reduction techniques, expressive arts therapy, craniosacral therapy, herbology and hatha yoga.
Welcome to my practice. I am a heart-centered therapist who works collaboratively with you. This work supports you in finding the roots of self- limiting beliefs and relationship patterns, and provides tools and techniques for healing, which gives way to inner clarity and freedom. When you are connected to your inner wisdom and intelligence, your life becomes healthy and grounded, relationships are more intimate and loving, and quality of life becomes richer. I use a holistic body-heart-and soul approach with those who are committed to growth and healing.
(628) 227-5436 View (628) 227-5436
Photo of Kimberly Koljat, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kimberly Koljat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, IMFT-S, RPT-S, RDT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
I'm a certified grief professional through Megan Devine's grief work perspective.
Looking for the right fit in therapy is everything, & I gladly meet my clients where they are & help them move towards the change they want to see in their lives. I provide insight-oriented therapy to those who want to work on how they show up in relationship, looking at behavioral patterns and unpacking how we can change the scripts that influence how you interact with others. I help those navigating the world as a Highly Sensitive Person or with neurodivergence, and are interested in therapy for the betterment of their relationship to self and others. I specialize in working with grieving clients navigating life altering change.
I'm a certified grief professional through Megan Devine's grief work perspective.
Looking for the right fit in therapy is everything, & I gladly meet my clients where they are & help them move towards the change they want to see in their lives. I provide insight-oriented therapy to those who want to work on how they show up in relationship, looking at behavioral patterns and unpacking how we can change the scripts that influence how you interact with others. I help those navigating the world as a Highly Sensitive Person or with neurodivergence, and are interested in therapy for the betterment of their relationship to self and others. I specialize in working with grieving clients navigating life altering change.
(216) 238-6815 View (216) 238-6815
Photo of Genevieve Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Genevieve Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
Welcome. Perhaps you are seeking out therapy to help manage a crisis or maybe you finally have enough stability in your life to work on deeper issues? As a psychotherapist, I meet my clients where they are and offer the support most suited for their needs. In my practice, I work with everything from artistic blocks, anxiety, depression and relationship issues to severe trauma, grief, addiction and existential unrest.
Welcome. Perhaps you are seeking out therapy to help manage a crisis or maybe you finally have enough stability in your life to work on deeper issues? As a psychotherapist, I meet my clients where they are and offer the support most suited for their needs. In my practice, I work with everything from artistic blocks, anxiety, depression and relationship issues to severe trauma, grief, addiction and existential unrest.
(415) 942-2640 View (415) 942-2640
Photo of Bonnie Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bonnie Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Sometimes we need extra support to get through difficult times in our lives, or a sounding board when making difficult decisions. I am here to provide a safe space for you on your path towards positive change and healing. If you are looking for a change in your life or struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, grief or trauma, please reach out for a free consultation. If you are not sure if therapy is right for you, I am happy to discuss what you are looking for and support you wherever you are in this process.
Sometimes we need extra support to get through difficult times in our lives, or a sounding board when making difficult decisions. I am here to provide a safe space for you on your path towards positive change and healing. If you are looking for a change in your life or struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, grief or trauma, please reach out for a free consultation. If you are not sure if therapy is right for you, I am happy to discuss what you are looking for and support you wherever you are in this process.
(415) 630-5734 View (415) 630-5734
Photo of Jennifer Roy @ The Connective, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jennifer Roy @ The Connective
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with such things as a major life transition, trauma, difficult relationship dynamics, illness, grief and loss, climate change anxiety, or isolation. Together we can reach your goals of building upon the resilience you have and adjusting any beliefs and patterns of behavior that are causing you distress in order to help you learn how to better navigate the challenges of life.
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with such things as a major life transition, trauma, difficult relationship dynamics, illness, grief and loss, climate change anxiety, or isolation. Together we can reach your goals of building upon the resilience you have and adjusting any beliefs and patterns of behavior that are causing you distress in order to help you learn how to better navigate the challenges of life.
(628) 345-2767 View (628) 345-2767
Photo of Katrina Sesline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Katrina Sesline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
(510) 616-9406 View (510) 616-9406
Photo of Jennifer M. Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jennifer M. Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, childhood/adult trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, aging and end of life, and Marriage Counseling.
Currently accepting new clients. Reaching out for support can feel scary and takes courage. I use a strengths-based approach when working collaboratively with clients to identify goals and develop a plan to move forward. I believe a safe and comfortable therapy environment is created through empathy, teaching, and humor.
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, childhood/adult trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, aging and end of life, and Marriage Counseling.
Currently accepting new clients. Reaching out for support can feel scary and takes courage. I use a strengths-based approach when working collaboratively with clients to identify goals and develop a plan to move forward. I believe a safe and comfortable therapy environment is created through empathy, teaching, and humor.
(949) 799-4334 View (949) 799-4334
Photo of John Connors McConville, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
John Connors McConville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I work with people who face challenges that often arise but are not exclusive to the second half of life such as: the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, and/or loneliness. I also work with folks suffering from love addiction or love avoidance. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms such as depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise but are not exclusive to the second half of life such as: the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, and/or loneliness. I also work with folks suffering from love addiction or love avoidance. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms such as depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
(415) 801-3943 View (415) 801-3943
Photo of Nicole (Nikki) Heeren, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nicole (Nikki) Heeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Nikki, a licensed psychotherapist with experience working in the field of mental health since 2015, including as a clinical director for a mental health nonprofit. I am naturally empathic and supportive and have a sense of humor that clients appreciate. I am always striving to gain resilience, meaning, and wisdom from my own experiences of loss, from my journey as a parent, and in my marriage of 17 years. Twice daily, I practice transcendental meditation, which provides inner clarity, keeping me centered and grounded in this beautiful yet turbulent world.
Hi! I’m Nikki, a licensed psychotherapist with experience working in the field of mental health since 2015, including as a clinical director for a mental health nonprofit. I am naturally empathic and supportive and have a sense of humor that clients appreciate. I am always striving to gain resilience, meaning, and wisdom from my own experiences of loss, from my journey as a parent, and in my marriage of 17 years. Twice daily, I practice transcendental meditation, which provides inner clarity, keeping me centered and grounded in this beautiful yet turbulent world.
(707) 813-3057 View (707) 813-3057

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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.