Photo of Mischell Kelley Coe, Counselor in Southlake, TX
Mischell Kelley Coe
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist who believes in the resiliency of the human spirit and its ability to work through and overcome extreme obstacles. I work with many different treatment modalities with one specific thought always in mind, the client comes first and must be treated with unconditional positive regard. My work is compassionate, collaborative and solution focused. My core foundation of treatment is to meet the client where they are and develop a customized plan to assist them in meeting their personal goals, and developing an understanding of self.
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist who believes in the resiliency of the human spirit and its ability to work through and overcome extreme obstacles. I work with many different treatment modalities with one specific thought always in mind, the client comes first and must be treated with unconditional positive regard. My work is compassionate, collaborative and solution focused. My core foundation of treatment is to meet the client where they are and develop a customized plan to assist them in meeting their personal goals, and developing an understanding of self.
(817) 873-6424 View (817) 873-6424
Photo of Dr. Emily Dixon, Psychologist in Southlake, TX
Dr. Emily Dixon
Psychologist, PsyD, LSOTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Dixon Psychological Services is a multifaceted psychology practice offering a wide range of psychological services. From therapy to evaluations, Dr. Dixon’s philosophy is simple; it is her belief that all emotions and feelings are valid. Not only are all emotions and feelings valid, they alert you to your inner well-being. Her interpersonal approach and innovative use of the therapeutic environment as a microcosm for your worldview will help you or your loved one explore their patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that can often lead to distress, frustration, or disregulation. depression, or anxiety.
Dixon Psychological Services is a multifaceted psychology practice offering a wide range of psychological services. From therapy to evaluations, Dr. Dixon’s philosophy is simple; it is her belief that all emotions and feelings are valid. Not only are all emotions and feelings valid, they alert you to your inner well-being. Her interpersonal approach and innovative use of the therapeutic environment as a microcosm for your worldview will help you or your loved one explore their patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that can often lead to distress, frustration, or disregulation. depression, or anxiety.
(817) 241-3978 View (817) 241-3978
Photo of Andrea Beth Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Southlake, TX
Andrea Beth Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Beth and my pronouns are she/her. I offer a tailored approach through a person-centered lens using intersectional, feminist, polyvagal and queer theories as a foundation for therapeutic interventions. I have been trained in a variety of modalities and can apply or introduce many as necessary to facilitate healing. On the whole, I limit my clients to ages 25 and up, specializing in aging, older adults, but can work with younger adults as well. Let's talk and see if I am good fit! For more information please visit peacelanetherapy.com
Hi! My name is Beth and my pronouns are she/her. I offer a tailored approach through a person-centered lens using intersectional, feminist, polyvagal and queer theories as a foundation for therapeutic interventions. I have been trained in a variety of modalities and can apply or introduce many as necessary to facilitate healing. On the whole, I limit my clients to ages 25 and up, specializing in aging, older adults, but can work with younger adults as well. Let's talk and see if I am good fit! For more information please visit peacelanetherapy.com
(817) 242-4765 View (817) 242-4765

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of The Well, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
The Well
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, TBRI, MA
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
The Well Counseling Center is a professional mental health care practice serving the area with office, and/or Telehealth. We sincerely believe there is hope, no matter their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual clients’ needs with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy
The Well Counseling Center is a professional mental health care practice serving the area with office, and/or Telehealth. We sincerely believe there is hope, no matter their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual clients’ needs with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy
(682) 452-7312 View (682) 452-7312
Photo of Jessica Erickson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Jessica Erickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
Hello, I look forward to meeting with you. We are not meant to be perfect; we are meant to be whole. My goal is to help you create the life experience that makes you happy. I will provide a safe, supportive, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment for you. I offer therapy that is empowering, collaborative, and client-centered to adolescents, individuals, couples, and families. My areas of experience include couple/marriage counseling, coaching and mentoring, relationship issues, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, stress, and domestic violence. I am passionate about helping clients find their best selves
Hello, I look forward to meeting with you. We are not meant to be perfect; we are meant to be whole. My goal is to help you create the life experience that makes you happy. I will provide a safe, supportive, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment for you. I offer therapy that is empowering, collaborative, and client-centered to adolescents, individuals, couples, and families. My areas of experience include couple/marriage counseling, coaching and mentoring, relationship issues, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, stress, and domestic violence. I am passionate about helping clients find their best selves
(682) 223-4607 View (682) 223-4607
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
(817) 849-6835 View (817) 849-6835
Photo of Family Matters Counseling Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Family Matters Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76177
Family Matters Counseling Center has evolved into a wholistic practice that offers marriage support, foster care assessments, drug evaluations, and career counseling! We specialize in adolescent and adult counseling.
I started Family Matters Counseling Center after I realized that a family system is one that the client creates and is not born into. From here I developed a passion to learn each unique families story to help them overcome their obstacle in maintaining balance within their family system. I help clients re-ignite their passion and hope in reaching their career and personal goals. I do this in a collaborative and gentle approach as I assist you in your journey with every step.
Family Matters Counseling Center has evolved into a wholistic practice that offers marriage support, foster care assessments, drug evaluations, and career counseling! We specialize in adolescent and adult counseling.
I started Family Matters Counseling Center after I realized that a family system is one that the client creates and is not born into. From here I developed a passion to learn each unique families story to help them overcome their obstacle in maintaining balance within their family system. I help clients re-ignite their passion and hope in reaching their career and personal goals. I do this in a collaborative and gentle approach as I assist you in your journey with every step.
(817) 361-4545 x1 View (817) 361-4545 x1
Photo of Blake Mallory, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Blake Mallory
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC, CPT, EMDR-Tr
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Richland Hills, TX 76182
Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient. Its ok not to be ok. In my 17 plus years of military, law enforcement, investigative and counseling experience I have realized how hard the mental health stigmas can be on simply asking for help or support. I am here to help support you through the healing process and help you gain essential tools, techniques, and strategies to get you on track to living the life you want to lead.
Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient. Its ok not to be ok. In my 17 plus years of military, law enforcement, investigative and counseling experience I have realized how hard the mental health stigmas can be on simply asking for help or support. I am here to help support you through the healing process and help you gain essential tools, techniques, and strategies to get you on track to living the life you want to lead.
(817) 385-9405 View (817) 385-9405
Photo of Donna Keehn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southlake, TX
Donna Keehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, SAP
Verified Verified
Grapevine, TX 76051
My clinical background includes a robust, private practice with in depth expertise in working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, anger management, relationships and attachment disorders. In addition, I am also a SAP for the DOT, a CISM credentialed provider, with a focus on individual and mass community trauma, and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I held significant corporate positions at a Fortune 500 Company (IBM) and partnered with one of America's Largest Private Companies (New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc).
My clinical background includes a robust, private practice with in depth expertise in working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, anger management, relationships and attachment disorders. In addition, I am also a SAP for the DOT, a CISM credentialed provider, with a focus on individual and mass community trauma, and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I held significant corporate positions at a Fortune 500 Company (IBM) and partnered with one of America's Largest Private Companies (New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc).
(214) 239-3454 View (214) 239-3454
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in Southlake, TX
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Marie Heidemann, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Southlake, TX
Marie Heidemann
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
Therapy is a gift. It has helped me through different periods of my life. Identifying where our attachments in life come from and how we learn to persevere through difficult times to find lasting joy is essential to helping us move through life. I would be honored to sit and hold space for your story and walk with you as you seek repair and restoration for your life.
Therapy is a gift. It has helped me through different periods of my life. Identifying where our attachments in life come from and how we learn to persevere through difficult times to find lasting joy is essential to helping us move through life. I would be honored to sit and hold space for your story and walk with you as you seek repair and restoration for your life.
(682) 327-5255 View (682) 327-5255
Photo of Joann Aronow Professional Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Joann Aronow Professional Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75022
My name is Joann Aronow MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CHST, CSAT, CPTT. I have experience with Alcohol addiction, Drug addiction, Sex addiction, ED, Dual Diagnosis, Couples, and Family Therapy. I formerly worked at Sante Center for Healing as an Outpatient Therapist and am now in private practice. I I have my Masters Degree from TWU in Community Counseling. I am a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key, accepted to Who's Who in College Students 2013, a member of Alpha Rho and TCA.
My name is Joann Aronow MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CHST, CSAT, CPTT. I have experience with Alcohol addiction, Drug addiction, Sex addiction, ED, Dual Diagnosis, Couples, and Family Therapy. I formerly worked at Sante Center for Healing as an Outpatient Therapist and am now in private practice. I I have my Masters Degree from TWU in Community Counseling. I am a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key, accepted to Who's Who in College Students 2013, a member of Alpha Rho and TCA.
(972) 776-2088 View (972) 776-2088
Photo of Better CALL Darrell - HS Professional Practitioner, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Southlake, TX
Better CALL Darrell - HS Professional Practitioner
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ACPS, ICCJP, LCDC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Lewisville, TX 75028
Addictions and Biblical Counseling are a series of powerful tools that profoundly improve relationships. Biblical Counseling utilizes the Sacred Scriptures, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation as conduits in understanding and resolving chaotic, dysfunctional, mayhem filled and toxic relationships with others as well as yourself. Addiction Counseling approaches the addicted person therapeutically with empathetic, sympathetic care, and compassion. With decades of experience as an Addictions and Biblical Counselor, I offer a variety of approaches that will assist you in succinctly eradicating present emotional and social discomforts.
Addictions and Biblical Counseling are a series of powerful tools that profoundly improve relationships. Biblical Counseling utilizes the Sacred Scriptures, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation as conduits in understanding and resolving chaotic, dysfunctional, mayhem filled and toxic relationships with others as well as yourself. Addiction Counseling approaches the addicted person therapeutically with empathetic, sympathetic care, and compassion. With decades of experience as an Addictions and Biblical Counselor, I offer a variety of approaches that will assist you in succinctly eradicating present emotional and social discomforts.
(469) 557-2127 View (469) 557-2127
Photo of Valerie Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Valerie Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CRC, CBIST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Not accepting new clients
Life can be wonderful, interesting, challenging but no one ever said it would be easy! Never before have we faced such a difficult onslaught of problems affecting our work, school, social and even medical aspects of our lives. The good news is that counseling has never been easier to access. Our friends tell us what we want to hear, counselors tell us what we need to hear and give us the tools to make changes to help us on our journey. I have been a counselor since 1991 and am just as passionate about my work today as the day I started.
Life can be wonderful, interesting, challenging but no one ever said it would be easy! Never before have we faced such a difficult onslaught of problems affecting our work, school, social and even medical aspects of our lives. The good news is that counseling has never been easier to access. Our friends tell us what we want to hear, counselors tell us what we need to hear and give us the tools to make changes to help us on our journey. I have been a counselor since 1991 and am just as passionate about my work today as the day I started.
(817) 396-6965 View (817) 396-6965

Online Therapists

Photo of Valor Therapy, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Valor Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169  (Online Only)
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
(214) 833-8162 View (214) 833-8162
Photo of Donald Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Donald Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
DONALD LEE, earned his B.A. from Brandeis University. He earned his M.A., M.Ed., and Ed.D. in counseling psychology from Columbia University. He is also a Licensed Professional Counselor. He provides individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults, as well as, providing marital and family therapy. He treats individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance/alcohol abuse, and adjustment issues. Dr. Lee has taught courses in individual therapy, group counseling, and racial-cultural counseling at the graduate level. His clinical experiences have involved work with the chronically mentally ill, victims of trauma, and has consulted at agencies working with victims of domestic violence.
DONALD LEE, earned his B.A. from Brandeis University. He earned his M.A., M.Ed., and Ed.D. in counseling psychology from Columbia University. He is also a Licensed Professional Counselor. He provides individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults, as well as, providing marital and family therapy. He treats individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance/alcohol abuse, and adjustment issues. Dr. Lee has taught courses in individual therapy, group counseling, and racial-cultural counseling at the graduate level. His clinical experiences have involved work with the chronically mentally ill, victims of trauma, and has consulted at agencies working with victims of domestic violence.
(469) 203-8927 View (469) 203-8927
Photo of Lorin Hayes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Southlake, TX
Lorin Hayes
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Are you feeling hopeless, or desperate, struggling in your relationship and feeling disconnected? Do you need a safe space to navigate through a relational or personal issue? Are you reliving a traumatic or painful period of life? Is anxiety or depression weighing you down? Then I am glad you are here! As a veteran with experience serving as a Chaplain Assistant in the Army, college advising, marriage coaching, and case management in a local mental health facility, I have professional and life experience for over 15 years supporting others.
Are you feeling hopeless, or desperate, struggling in your relationship and feeling disconnected? Do you need a safe space to navigate through a relational or personal issue? Are you reliving a traumatic or painful period of life? Is anxiety or depression weighing you down? Then I am glad you are here! As a veteran with experience serving as a Chaplain Assistant in the Army, college advising, marriage coaching, and case management in a local mental health facility, I have professional and life experience for over 15 years supporting others.
(469) 708-7151 View (469) 708-7151
Photo of Counseling Center of North Texas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southlake, TX
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
(469) 275-4107 View (469) 275-4107
Photo of Community Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Community Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
(214) 919-5829 View (214) 919-5829
Photo of Lifeologie Midlothian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Lifeologie Midlothian
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Midlothian, TX 76065
Our team has specialists in individual, marital, family and group therapy, mindfulness, child/play therapy, addictions trichotillomania, cross-cultural issues, trauma recovery, adolescents, life transitions, depression, anxiety, eating disorders.
Creative Solutions to Stuck Problems® is what we provide. Our counselors work with adults, kids, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Lifeologie Counseling is to help you address and overcome any emotional issues, communication problems, relationship struggles, or personal traumas that you may be facing or have faced. Our counselors bring to each session enthusiasm, honesty, common sense, professionalism, and a sense of humor. Contact us today to get started on your new path.
Our team has specialists in individual, marital, family and group therapy, mindfulness, child/play therapy, addictions trichotillomania, cross-cultural issues, trauma recovery, adolescents, life transitions, depression, anxiety, eating disorders.
Creative Solutions to Stuck Problems® is what we provide. Our counselors work with adults, kids, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Lifeologie Counseling is to help you address and overcome any emotional issues, communication problems, relationship struggles, or personal traumas that you may be facing or have faced. Our counselors bring to each session enthusiasm, honesty, common sense, professionalism, and a sense of humor. Contact us today to get started on your new path.
(972) 975-5904 View (972) 975-5904
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.