Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Brock Jones, MA, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brock Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
We provide affirming, sex-positive and kink-friendly therapy for clients of all ages and across the spectrum of gender & sexual identities.
My philosophy of therapy is humanist, believing that every person is worthy of dignity, love, and fulfillment in their life. Therapy provides an affirming, compassionate relationship for clients to learn more about themselves, explore choices, and better understand how they relate to the world around them. Through acceptance, curiosity, and discussion, I join with clients to support them in discovering their own potential, explore areas of growth, and identify the strengths and wisdoms they already carry with them. I believe therapy should be flexible and dynamic enough to support clients who are facing particular struggles.
We provide affirming, sex-positive and kink-friendly therapy for clients of all ages and across the spectrum of gender & sexual identities.
My philosophy of therapy is humanist, believing that every person is worthy of dignity, love, and fulfillment in their life. Therapy provides an affirming, compassionate relationship for clients to learn more about themselves, explore choices, and better understand how they relate to the world around them. Through acceptance, curiosity, and discussion, I join with clients to support them in discovering their own potential, explore areas of growth, and identify the strengths and wisdoms they already carry with them. I believe therapy should be flexible and dynamic enough to support clients who are facing particular struggles.
(773) 694-1619 View (773) 694-1619
Photo of Sofia Lynn Vila, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sofia Lynn Vila
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Beginning your therapeutic journey can be both intimidating and empowering. My goal is to empower you to harness your own capacity to heal from trauma and hardship, and to cultivate insight and growth. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space and effective strategies to help you find your best self, within yourself. I believe in the unique power of connection - with oneself, with others, and with the world - and I want to help you lean into it. With unconditional compassion and empathy, I will walk alongside you in your journey to reclaim your confidence, joy and most authentic life.
Beginning your therapeutic journey can be both intimidating and empowering. My goal is to empower you to harness your own capacity to heal from trauma and hardship, and to cultivate insight and growth. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space and effective strategies to help you find your best self, within yourself. I believe in the unique power of connection - with oneself, with others, and with the world - and I want to help you lean into it. With unconditional compassion and empathy, I will walk alongside you in your journey to reclaim your confidence, joy and most authentic life.
(872) 274-4106 View (872) 274-4106
Photo of Gabrielle Kaminsky-Bayer, PhD, Psychologist
Gabrielle Kaminsky-Bayer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that we all have an inherent need to feel connected, seen, and understood and that is often where the growth, relief, and healing begins. My clinical work is based on a dynamic and relational approach that works collaboratively with clients to gain an understanding of how early experiences underlie behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and explore ways to connect with others. My approach is grounded in a social justice, sex-positive, and anti-oppressive lens, that posits an understanding of how systems of power and privilege manifest in individuals’ lives and impact individuals' ability to heal.
I believe that we all have an inherent need to feel connected, seen, and understood and that is often where the growth, relief, and healing begins. My clinical work is based on a dynamic and relational approach that works collaboratively with clients to gain an understanding of how early experiences underlie behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and explore ways to connect with others. My approach is grounded in a social justice, sex-positive, and anti-oppressive lens, that posits an understanding of how systems of power and privilege manifest in individuals’ lives and impact individuals' ability to heal.
(773) 985-4598 View (773) 985-4598
Photo of Caitlin A Tupper, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin A Tupper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
It can be intimidating to know where to start when we need support. You may be feeling trapped by the past and overwhelmed by the future, struggling with self-doubt, or experiencing loneliness. Therapy can help you figure out your options to move through feeling stuck, learn more about yourself to gain valuable insights, and find new ways to cope instead of feeling lost. You have already shown courage and self-awareness to recognize you are ready for change by beginning the process of seeking therapy.
It can be intimidating to know where to start when we need support. You may be feeling trapped by the past and overwhelmed by the future, struggling with self-doubt, or experiencing loneliness. Therapy can help you figure out your options to move through feeling stuck, learn more about yourself to gain valuable insights, and find new ways to cope instead of feeling lost. You have already shown courage and self-awareness to recognize you are ready for change by beginning the process of seeking therapy.
(773) 207-3713 View (773) 207-3713
Photo of Esther Espeland, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esther Espeland
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I frequently work with queer and trans people and am kink and sex work affirming.
Relationships are opportunities for growth and exploration and yet can be the sources of some of our most painful hurts and losses. Therapy itself is a relationship and I provide space for clients to restore their capacity to build connection. Working with both individuals and partnerships, I help clients deepen and organize their emotional experience to understand relationship patterns and foster authenticity.
I frequently work with queer and trans people and am kink and sex work affirming.
Relationships are opportunities for growth and exploration and yet can be the sources of some of our most painful hurts and losses. Therapy itself is a relationship and I provide space for clients to restore their capacity to build connection. Working with both individuals and partnerships, I help clients deepen and organize their emotional experience to understand relationship patterns and foster authenticity.
(872) 274-3140 View (872) 274-3140
Photo of Rachel Schaefer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Schaefer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My clinical emphasis is in working with LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals, as well as couples and non-traditional relationship styles. As an advocate for fat liberation, I believe in encouraging clients to love their bodies and take up space unapologetically. I am also sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships. Whether it’s understanding one’s gender and sexual identity or seeking a fulfilling career path, I love helping clients identify and prioritize their values in order to align their life with what brings them joy.
My clinical emphasis is in working with LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals, as well as couples and non-traditional relationship styles. As an advocate for fat liberation, I believe in encouraging clients to love their bodies and take up space unapologetically. I am also sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships. Whether it’s understanding one’s gender and sexual identity or seeking a fulfilling career path, I love helping clients identify and prioritize their values in order to align their life with what brings them joy.
(872) 234-7394 View (872) 234-7394
Photo of Monisha Berkowski, PhD, CST, Psychologist
Monisha Berkowski
Psychologist, PhD, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Currently accepting referrals for ADHD testing only. Does it feel you or your relationship are stuck in a cycle that isn't working for you? By recognizing and repairing these patterns, we can cultivate lasting change in our relationship to ourselves and others. Most of my clients want to improve their relationships, sex lives, or explore their identities or transitions. I specialize in sex and relationship therapy, enhancing intimacy and desire, improving mismatched libido, and working through pain or dysfunction, particularly within the queer community. My approach is active, inquisitive, humorous, and nonjudgmental.
Currently accepting referrals for ADHD testing only. Does it feel you or your relationship are stuck in a cycle that isn't working for you? By recognizing and repairing these patterns, we can cultivate lasting change in our relationship to ourselves and others. Most of my clients want to improve their relationships, sex lives, or explore their identities or transitions. I specialize in sex and relationship therapy, enhancing intimacy and desire, improving mismatched libido, and working through pain or dysfunction, particularly within the queer community. My approach is active, inquisitive, humorous, and nonjudgmental.
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Photo of Prem K Pahwa, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Prem K Pahwa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I'm a Mental Health Clinician with over 20yrs experience, and also a Certified Sex Therapist. I work with LGBTQ+ and heterosexual people on a variety of relational and mental health issues, as well as sexual and intimacy concerns. I approach my work from a sexual health model and values driven perspective. I work with clients on consensual non-monogamy/polyam, kink, BDSM, as well as sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, desire discrepancies, etc. I continue to work with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as navigating life!
I'm a Mental Health Clinician with over 20yrs experience, and also a Certified Sex Therapist. I work with LGBTQ+ and heterosexual people on a variety of relational and mental health issues, as well as sexual and intimacy concerns. I approach my work from a sexual health model and values driven perspective. I work with clients on consensual non-monogamy/polyam, kink, BDSM, as well as sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, desire discrepancies, etc. I continue to work with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as navigating life!
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Photo of Kelsey Lamm Rottmuller, LCPC, NCC
Kelsey Lamm Rottmuller
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling to live authentically and fully? I am honored to provide services to adults, young adults, and adolescents who are facing obstacles to living a life of balance and fulfillment. My approach to therapy is guided by warmth, empathic understanding, genuineness, and the belief in clients’ inherent capacity for positive growth. I provide a safe and affirming space for clients to come as they are, openly and honestly. I am invested in supporting your journey towards self-discovery and a greater sense of connection to that which brings your life meaning.
Do you find yourself struggling to live authentically and fully? I am honored to provide services to adults, young adults, and adolescents who are facing obstacles to living a life of balance and fulfillment. My approach to therapy is guided by warmth, empathic understanding, genuineness, and the belief in clients’ inherent capacity for positive growth. I provide a safe and affirming space for clients to come as they are, openly and honestly. I am invested in supporting your journey towards self-discovery and a greater sense of connection to that which brings your life meaning.
(312) 586-9470 View (312) 586-9470
Photo of Eric Aprill, PsyD, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eric Aprill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
(312) 262-4947 View (312) 262-4947
Photo of Anthony Paul Verdino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anthony Paul Verdino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My work centers Queer individuals and units doing or thinking about kink, poly, non-monogamy, sex/body work, or drag/burlesque.
You live your life every day the best way you know how. It got you this far and that’s awesome! Yet, I think we all desire to live more authentically and actually thrive in our everyday lives. It's likely that your ability to fully be yourself and thrive is challenged by an incomplete understanding and acknowledgement of what's working/not working, a lack of genuine connections, inhibited or constrained needs and desires, difficulty imagining yourself/your future, and creating and sustaining a balance in your emotional health, various life areas, your core values. I’ll help you explore and recognize what might be missing or lacking.
My work centers Queer individuals and units doing or thinking about kink, poly, non-monogamy, sex/body work, or drag/burlesque.
You live your life every day the best way you know how. It got you this far and that’s awesome! Yet, I think we all desire to live more authentically and actually thrive in our everyday lives. It's likely that your ability to fully be yourself and thrive is challenged by an incomplete understanding and acknowledgement of what's working/not working, a lack of genuine connections, inhibited or constrained needs and desires, difficulty imagining yourself/your future, and creating and sustaining a balance in your emotional health, various life areas, your core values. I’ll help you explore and recognize what might be missing or lacking.
(773) 825-6996 View (773) 825-6996
Photo of Bella Kimrey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bella Kimrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I believe that anyone is capable of change, and that change can be made easier with the help of supportive relationships. As a therapist, I do not see myself as the authority on your experience, but rather, I accept each of my clients as the expert on their own lives. I strive to create a balanced relationship built on understanding and authenticity with each individual who enters the therapy space. I have significant experience supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly those who are survivors of trauma. I embrace all expressions of gender, and I am a trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-friendly, and poly-affirming counselor.
I believe that anyone is capable of change, and that change can be made easier with the help of supportive relationships. As a therapist, I do not see myself as the authority on your experience, but rather, I accept each of my clients as the expert on their own lives. I strive to create a balanced relationship built on understanding and authenticity with each individual who enters the therapy space. I have significant experience supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly those who are survivors of trauma. I embrace all expressions of gender, and I am a trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-friendly, and poly-affirming counselor.
(872) 204-2522 View (872) 204-2522
Photo of Bill Johnson, PsyD, Psychologist
Bill Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Sex Therapist with expertise in kink, ethnical non-monogamy, men's sexual health concerns, and infidelity.
You may be experiencing a period of mental unrest and uncertainty. When you have the space and willingness to reflect on past traumas and experiences to understand their impact on your current circumstances, you gain a new awareness that often leads to powerful insights. As a licensed clinical psychologist who understands the need for inner healing first, it is my goal to support you in identifying core sources of pain, confusion, fear, and stress in order to get to the root cause of the issue. By working with you to form a deeper sense of clarity, I am able to guide you in taking the next steps along your journey of healing.
I am also a Certified Sex Therapist with expertise in kink, ethnical non-monogamy, men's sexual health concerns, and infidelity.
You may be experiencing a period of mental unrest and uncertainty. When you have the space and willingness to reflect on past traumas and experiences to understand their impact on your current circumstances, you gain a new awareness that often leads to powerful insights. As a licensed clinical psychologist who understands the need for inner healing first, it is my goal to support you in identifying core sources of pain, confusion, fear, and stress in order to get to the root cause of the issue. By working with you to form a deeper sense of clarity, I am able to guide you in taking the next steps along your journey of healing.
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Photo of Mi Row, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mi Row
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Everyone enters therapy with different goals. Whether a person is very clear on what they want to accomplish or still figuring things out, I encourage them to make choices at their own pace. I believe every person is the expert of their own experiences. I prioritize working with sick/mad/disabled, queer and trans people of color of all ages, but particularly late adolescents and emerging/young adults. I am affirming, sex and kink positive, and experienced in helping navigate poly & non-monogamous relationships. I also specialize in exploring and building skills/resources with neurodivergent individuals.
Everyone enters therapy with different goals. Whether a person is very clear on what they want to accomplish or still figuring things out, I encourage them to make choices at their own pace. I believe every person is the expert of their own experiences. I prioritize working with sick/mad/disabled, queer and trans people of color of all ages, but particularly late adolescents and emerging/young adults. I am affirming, sex and kink positive, and experienced in helping navigate poly & non-monogamous relationships. I also specialize in exploring and building skills/resources with neurodivergent individuals.
(708) 765-6239 View (708) 765-6239
Photo of Jason Hoffmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Hoffmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
The ideal client is seeking out reassurance and support in times of calm as well as crisis. The goal is to help clients with the issues facing them every day to treat the entire person, not just the pinpointed issue. A therapist is only as strong as the relationship with each client. Each client is unique, collaboratively we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific needs and goals then we re-evaluate to bring about the best self. Whether it be LGBTQIA+ issues, sex/intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, kink and/or other issues, you aren't alone. Together we can get you where you want to go.
The ideal client is seeking out reassurance and support in times of calm as well as crisis. The goal is to help clients with the issues facing them every day to treat the entire person, not just the pinpointed issue. A therapist is only as strong as the relationship with each client. Each client is unique, collaboratively we find an approach to therapy that fits to your specific needs and goals then we re-evaluate to bring about the best self. Whether it be LGBTQIA+ issues, sex/intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance use, kink and/or other issues, you aren't alone. Together we can get you where you want to go.
(872) 204-0513 View (872) 204-0513
Photo of Maddy Seabrook, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maddy Seabrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
I am sex-positive, kink/BDSM friendly, and practice from the tenets of fat liberation and anti-racism.
As a therapist, my goal is to affirm my clients’ unique experiences and to support them in living more empowered lives. Everyone has the tools within themselves to flourish, but life experiences can make it challenging to connect with those strengths and abilities. The impact of trauma and oppression can move us into places of isolation and self-doubt. I respect how people adapt in order to survive, and I deeply honor their resiliency. I also believe that people deserve more than mere survival. We all deserve joy, connection, and safety.
I am sex-positive, kink/BDSM friendly, and practice from the tenets of fat liberation and anti-racism.
As a therapist, my goal is to affirm my clients’ unique experiences and to support them in living more empowered lives. Everyone has the tools within themselves to flourish, but life experiences can make it challenging to connect with those strengths and abilities. The impact of trauma and oppression can move us into places of isolation and self-doubt. I respect how people adapt in order to survive, and I deeply honor their resiliency. I also believe that people deserve more than mere survival. We all deserve joy, connection, and safety.
(312) 809-0298 View (312) 809-0298
Photo of Chris M Edwards, MA, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris M Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have experience working with and welcome clients from LGBTQIA+, kink, and monogamous/ non-monogamous communities.
During this time of uncertainty, experiences of isolation, loss, and being stifled by our environments can make it difficult to focus on and do daily tasks. Are these issues that you’re facing? Have you struggled to stay connected to others, or to be understood and supported by people in your life? Maybe you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether it’s your relationship(s), your living environment, or your own feelings and behaviors. I work to meet people where they’re at and create an affirming space that supports those struggling with a variety of life stresses to make sense of these issues and find direction for moving forward.
I have experience working with and welcome clients from LGBTQIA+, kink, and monogamous/ non-monogamous communities.
During this time of uncertainty, experiences of isolation, loss, and being stifled by our environments can make it difficult to focus on and do daily tasks. Are these issues that you’re facing? Have you struggled to stay connected to others, or to be understood and supported by people in your life? Maybe you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether it’s your relationship(s), your living environment, or your own feelings and behaviors. I work to meet people where they’re at and create an affirming space that supports those struggling with a variety of life stresses to make sense of these issues and find direction for moving forward.
(217) 920-0850 View (217) 920-0850
Photo of Sue Cook,  MSW, MS, LAC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MS, LAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
I currently specialize in supporting neurodivergent queer emerging adults as they navigate the anxieties and stressors of late stage capitalism. I particularly enjoy working with late-identified/diagnosed autistic adults or self-identified autistic emerging adults. I also work with trauma survivors, people with chronic illnesses and pain, and LGBTQ2IA emerging adults. I am sex/ kink/polyamory-positive, body-neutral, and sex-worker affirming. I strive to acknowledge and to combat the systemic impact of White supremacy, including its relationship to fatphobia, transphobia, and ableism.
I currently specialize in supporting neurodivergent queer emerging adults as they navigate the anxieties and stressors of late stage capitalism. I particularly enjoy working with late-identified/diagnosed autistic adults or self-identified autistic emerging adults. I also work with trauma survivors, people with chronic illnesses and pain, and LGBTQ2IA emerging adults. I am sex/ kink/polyamory-positive, body-neutral, and sex-worker affirming. I strive to acknowledge and to combat the systemic impact of White supremacy, including its relationship to fatphobia, transphobia, and ableism.
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Photo of Mariel F Gardiner, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariel F Gardiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I welcome individuals from LGBTQ+, gender diverse, CNM/polyamorous, and kink communities.
Are you often questioning yourself in life? Have you been struggling to communicate and connect with others? Are you struggling to move on or find fulfilling relationships? I have experience assisting clients in navigating life transitions, healing from relational trauma, creating and maintaining healthy relationships, as well as coping with anxiety and depression. I also assist clients in building self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, and exploring identity to find true fulfillment.
I welcome individuals from LGBTQ+, gender diverse, CNM/polyamorous, and kink communities.
Are you often questioning yourself in life? Have you been struggling to communicate and connect with others? Are you struggling to move on or find fulfilling relationships? I have experience assisting clients in navigating life transitions, healing from relational trauma, creating and maintaining healthy relationships, as well as coping with anxiety and depression. I also assist clients in building self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, and exploring identity to find true fulfillment.
(224) 470-7383 View (224) 470-7383
Photo of Danie Rogers, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danie Rogers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ clients, folks within the BDSM/ kink and poly worlds, and those living with lifelong sexually transmitted infections.
I work at Practical Audacity. We are a Group Practice where therapy is performed by Queer Identified/ Aligned and Trauma-Informed Professionals. We want people to find Pleasure, Joy, and Confidence in their sexuality no matter what barriers they face. We provide therapy and coaching grounded in feminist ideals and collaboration, focusing on strengths, trauma-informed care, and science-backed interventions and, at the same time, providing a space for you to feel safe and seen right where you are.
I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ clients, folks within the BDSM/ kink and poly worlds, and those living with lifelong sexually transmitted infections.
I work at Practical Audacity. We are a Group Practice where therapy is performed by Queer Identified/ Aligned and Trauma-Informed Professionals. We want people to find Pleasure, Joy, and Confidence in their sexuality no matter what barriers they face. We provide therapy and coaching grounded in feminist ideals and collaboration, focusing on strengths, trauma-informed care, and science-backed interventions and, at the same time, providing a space for you to feel safe and seen right where you are.
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