Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Big Rapids, MI

Photo of Omar L Mangrum, Psychologist in Big Rapids, MI
Omar L Mangrum
Psychologist, MA, EdD
Verified Verified
Big Rapids, MI 49307
In the 30 plus years I have worked as a psychologist, the most frequent comment I hear from clients is that they appreciate my warmth, plainspoken feedback, and practical suggestions for change. I have worked effectively with people of all ages, orientation, and ethnicity over a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and health related problems. Treatment interventions I have used over the years include cognitive behavioral techniques, traditional counseling, biofeedback, hypnosis, and family therapy among others. I look forward to talking with you!
In the 30 plus years I have worked as a psychologist, the most frequent comment I hear from clients is that they appreciate my warmth, plainspoken feedback, and practical suggestions for change. I have worked effectively with people of all ages, orientation, and ethnicity over a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and health related problems. Treatment interventions I have used over the years include cognitive behavioral techniques, traditional counseling, biofeedback, hypnosis, and family therapy among others. I look forward to talking with you!
(616) 987-0981 x109 View (616) 987-0981 x109
Photo of Caroline Velasquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Caroline Velasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem as though no matter what you do, you can't move beyond your past? Do you worry about your ability to succeed in life? Does it ever seem like your mind does not turn off? If you can relate to any of these statements, I might be able to help you.
Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem as though no matter what you do, you can't move beyond your past? Do you worry about your ability to succeed in life? Does it ever seem like your mind does not turn off? If you can relate to any of these statements, I might be able to help you.
(231) 525-3554 View (231) 525-3554
Photo of Breanna Fiala, Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Breanna Fiala
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307  (Online Only)
Sharing your story matters and I consider it an honor anytime a client chooses to share theirs with me. Inviting someone else into your journey can feel scary, exciting, comforting and vulnerable, but there is something powerful that happens when you do. Whether you have shared your story many times before or this is your first time, I am ready to walk that journey with you.
Sharing your story matters and I consider it an honor anytime a client chooses to share theirs with me. Inviting someone else into your journey can feel scary, exciting, comforting and vulnerable, but there is something powerful that happens when you do. Whether you have shared your story many times before or this is your first time, I am ready to walk that journey with you.
(616) 344-6071 View (616) 344-6071
Photo of Jerilyn Ann Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Jerilyn Ann Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Waitlist for new clients
Life can feel overwhelming to everyone at times! You are trying to balance work/family, friends, social life, as well as your own physical and mental health. Finding balance is something everyone can struggle with. I want to help you work toward finding balance in your physical health, emotional and spiritual health. Once a person finds that balance, everything falls into place. Grades/work performance improves, self-esteem builds, relationships improve, and we move toward a place of finding inner peace. I have seen thousands of people reclaim their life and want to help you do the same!
Life can feel overwhelming to everyone at times! You are trying to balance work/family, friends, social life, as well as your own physical and mental health. Finding balance is something everyone can struggle with. I want to help you work toward finding balance in your physical health, emotional and spiritual health. Once a person finds that balance, everything falls into place. Grades/work performance improves, self-esteem builds, relationships improve, and we move toward a place of finding inner peace. I have seen thousands of people reclaim their life and want to help you do the same!
(231) 244-6595 View (231) 244-6595
Photo of Jessica Matthews, Licensed Professional Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Jessica Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed by life? Tired of trying to figure it out on your own? Feeling lost and wondering where to go next? On this journey of life, there are mountains and valleys and at times it is difficult to navigate. You are not alone. In the course of counseling, I will come alongside you by creating a safe space to share, learn, and develop new skills to help facilitate change, healing, and growth. To do this, I use a client-centered approach, meaning I will use a variety of techniques and tailor services to meet your individual needs and style of learning.
Overwhelmed by life? Tired of trying to figure it out on your own? Feeling lost and wondering where to go next? On this journey of life, there are mountains and valleys and at times it is difficult to navigate. You are not alone. In the course of counseling, I will come alongside you by creating a safe space to share, learn, and develop new skills to help facilitate change, healing, and growth. To do this, I use a client-centered approach, meaning I will use a variety of techniques and tailor services to meet your individual needs and style of learning.
(616) 201-0271 View (616) 201-0271

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Deanna Heath Mt. Pleasant Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Deanna Heath Mt. Pleasant Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Stanwood, MI 49346
Change is difficult for everyone. Whether it is in ourselves, from life situations or in a relationship, roadblocks often keep us from living the best life possible. I enjoy working with people to make positive changes, enhancing their lives. I welcome new clients and look forward to working with you.
Change is difficult for everyone. Whether it is in ourselves, from life situations or in a relationship, roadblocks often keep us from living the best life possible. I enjoy working with people to make positive changes, enhancing their lives. I welcome new clients and look forward to working with you.
(989) 244-1663 View (989) 244-1663

Online Therapists

Photo of Erin Gajda, Licensed Professional Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Erin Gajda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
This treatment style is effective for many mental health concerns including: Anxiety, depression, OCD, negative self-dialogue, PTSD, worry, relationships, self-esteem, self-harm, body image and addictions.
Often family history and life experiences have taught us unhealthy skills of dealing with the painful events in our lives. You may have found yourself in place where you are reacting in ways you never thought you would and not living the life you want. It's common to not even know why you are feeling the way you do. Exhaustion, frustration, anger and being easily overwhelmed are just a few common indicators there is something going on with your emotional self. If you are struggling know there is a different way.
This treatment style is effective for many mental health concerns including: Anxiety, depression, OCD, negative self-dialogue, PTSD, worry, relationships, self-esteem, self-harm, body image and addictions.
Often family history and life experiences have taught us unhealthy skills of dealing with the painful events in our lives. You may have found yourself in place where you are reacting in ways you never thought you would and not living the life you want. It's common to not even know why you are feeling the way you do. Exhaustion, frustration, anger and being easily overwhelmed are just a few common indicators there is something going on with your emotional self. If you are struggling know there is a different way.
(517) 948-5109 View (517) 948-5109
Photo of Rebecca R. Swenson, Psychologist in Big Rapids, MI
Rebecca R. Swenson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I provide cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and interpersonal therapy for anxiety, OCD & body-focused repetitive behaviors, and eating disorders in a professional, confidential, and caring environment at the Commons.
Is your child overly worried or fearful? Do you have a stressed out teen who struggles with body image and eating problems? Are you experiencing recurrent intrusive unwanted thoughts or engaging in repetitive behaviors? As a licensed clinical psychologist, I am dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, and young adults with compassionate, supportive, and evidence-based therapy. Our solution-focused sessions will look at what is working well for you now and how to make changes to your thoughts, behaviors, coping skills, and relationships in order to feel better and stay better.
I provide cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and interpersonal therapy for anxiety, OCD & body-focused repetitive behaviors, and eating disorders in a professional, confidential, and caring environment at the Commons.
Is your child overly worried or fearful? Do you have a stressed out teen who struggles with body image and eating problems? Are you experiencing recurrent intrusive unwanted thoughts or engaging in repetitive behaviors? As a licensed clinical psychologist, I am dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, and young adults with compassionate, supportive, and evidence-based therapy. Our solution-focused sessions will look at what is working well for you now and how to make changes to your thoughts, behaviors, coping skills, and relationships in order to feel better and stay better.
(231) 201-5460 View (231) 201-5460
Photo of Basak Amelia Khamush, Psychologist in Big Rapids, MI
Basak Amelia Khamush
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
I became a therapist because I believe healing is imminent. Every therapy session is an opportunity to remove barriers of judgment and shame that frequently block access to self-knowledge, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-appreciation. I’m passionate about and experienced in working with eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, depressive disorders, culture shock/cultural integration, cultural/spiritual identity, international identity, and diversity-related issues.
I became a therapist because I believe healing is imminent. Every therapy session is an opportunity to remove barriers of judgment and shame that frequently block access to self-knowledge, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-appreciation. I’m passionate about and experienced in working with eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, depressive disorders, culture shock/cultural integration, cultural/spiritual identity, international identity, and diversity-related issues.
(216) 306-5882 View (216) 306-5882
Photo of Samantha Chilcote Ritenburgh, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Big Rapids, MI
Samantha Chilcote Ritenburgh
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA MLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009  (Online Only)
Currently, I provide psychotherapy and assessment services to adolescents, adults, couples, and families, with similar challenges, and clients with intellectual disabilities, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
I believe in order to make changes in our lives, we must first examine the impact that past relationships, experiences, and environments have had on us. The therapeutic process allows us to examine and process how things that have happened to us can impact who we are as individuals and integrate the past into who we are in the present. The therapeutic relationship can help us to identify sources of resilience and strength that can help us to overcome past negative experiences. By connecting our past with who we are in the present, we can start the process of change.
Currently, I provide psychotherapy and assessment services to adolescents, adults, couples, and families, with similar challenges, and clients with intellectual disabilities, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
I believe in order to make changes in our lives, we must first examine the impact that past relationships, experiences, and environments have had on us. The therapeutic process allows us to examine and process how things that have happened to us can impact who we are as individuals and integrate the past into who we are in the present. The therapeutic relationship can help us to identify sources of resilience and strength that can help us to overcome past negative experiences. By connecting our past with who we are in the present, we can start the process of change.
(269) 225-3211 View (269) 225-3211
Photo of Julie Carbajal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Julie Carbajal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Most of my clients come to me with anxiety, obsessive compulsive, or trauma disorders. They find their worlds shrinking as a result and aren't sure how to break the cycle. For clients with anxiety and trauma disorders, I use exposure therapy to break cycles of fear, anxiety, and avoidance. I also see clients troubled by marginalization due to identity, relationship struggles, substance use, and psychotic disorders, and they too deal with pain that gets in the way of what's important in their lives. They often feel trapped or stuck and want to find a way through the barriers keeping them from meaning and purpose in their lives.
Most of my clients come to me with anxiety, obsessive compulsive, or trauma disorders. They find their worlds shrinking as a result and aren't sure how to break the cycle. For clients with anxiety and trauma disorders, I use exposure therapy to break cycles of fear, anxiety, and avoidance. I also see clients troubled by marginalization due to identity, relationship struggles, substance use, and psychotic disorders, and they too deal with pain that gets in the way of what's important in their lives. They often feel trapped or stuck and want to find a way through the barriers keeping them from meaning and purpose in their lives.
(269) 366-4595 View (269) 366-4595
Photo of Breanne Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Breanne Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CBIS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My knowledge and experience includes anxiety management, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, family changes/adjustment, stress management, career guidance, educational stress, social behaviors, postnatal mood, development disabilities, sensory processing, ADHD, foster care, divorce, physical/sexual/emotional trauma, and elderly care.
NEW Patient email: captivebeliefs@gmail.com with availability, needs, and insurance plan. I believe that everyone deserves the support they need to release emotions and regain control. My specialities include anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have over 10 years of experience assessing mood, personalities, and family systems. My approach guides clients in managing areas of need such as life changes, emotional regulation, and family/social stressors. While I maintain the utmost professionalism in my practice, I offer a compassionate and approachable style.
My knowledge and experience includes anxiety management, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, family changes/adjustment, stress management, career guidance, educational stress, social behaviors, postnatal mood, development disabilities, sensory processing, ADHD, foster care, divorce, physical/sexual/emotional trauma, and elderly care.
NEW Patient email: captivebeliefs@gmail.com with availability, needs, and insurance plan. I believe that everyone deserves the support they need to release emotions and regain control. My specialities include anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have over 10 years of experience assessing mood, personalities, and family systems. My approach guides clients in managing areas of need such as life changes, emotional regulation, and family/social stressors. While I maintain the utmost professionalism in my practice, I offer a compassionate and approachable style.
(231) 432-5526 View (231) 432-5526
Photo of Anyssa Grendel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Anyssa Grendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health and conduct ESA assessments. As a group practice we support the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers.
Anyssa specializes in supporting mental health/medical professionals and areas of depression/anxiety, obsessive/intrusive thinking, psychosomatic experiences, perinatal/parenting and marriage issues. Anyssa provides LLMSW and MSW intern supervision. Also a believer in both the human connection and animal support to our emotional and mental health and conduct ESA assessments. As a group practice we support the needs of children, teens, adults and couples so visit our website for more information on our practice and individual providers.
(616) 877-9050 View (616) 877-9050
Photo of Emma G Steinhaus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Emma G Steinhaus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Are you struggling to get out of your own head? Do you feel as if this anxiety will never end? These feelings do not have to last forever. I desire to help you find happiness, healing, and hope. I desire to help you reach those goals with the use of helpful coping/grounding skills. I have a great passion for those who are facing anxiety of any form. I specialize in working with OCD, depression, grief, trauma, sexual abuse and eating disorders. I use a solutions focused approach as well as incorporating CBT, DBT and exposure response prevention.
Are you struggling to get out of your own head? Do you feel as if this anxiety will never end? These feelings do not have to last forever. I desire to help you find happiness, healing, and hope. I desire to help you reach those goals with the use of helpful coping/grounding skills. I have a great passion for those who are facing anxiety of any form. I specialize in working with OCD, depression, grief, trauma, sexual abuse and eating disorders. I use a solutions focused approach as well as incorporating CBT, DBT and exposure response prevention.
(517) 343-1930 View (517) 343-1930
Photo of Janelle Rieman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Janelle Rieman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49685
I am ERP trained and specialize in the treatment of individuals with OCD and related anxiety disorders including Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, and Specific Phobia.
In today's uncertain world, more people than ever are experiencing issues with their mental health. It is my goal to partner with you to collaboratively work through the issues that you are facing in life. I strive to provide a comforting, safe, and non-judgemental space where you can come to have someone listen and help you to navigate through these issues. It is through this work that you will discover the inner strengths and skills you already possess. With these strengths and my assistance, our goal will be to work together to create genuine healing, change, and self-empowerment.
I am ERP trained and specialize in the treatment of individuals with OCD and related anxiety disorders including Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, and Specific Phobia.
In today's uncertain world, more people than ever are experiencing issues with their mental health. It is my goal to partner with you to collaboratively work through the issues that you are facing in life. I strive to provide a comforting, safe, and non-judgemental space where you can come to have someone listen and help you to navigate through these issues. It is through this work that you will discover the inner strengths and skills you already possess. With these strengths and my assistance, our goal will be to work together to create genuine healing, change, and self-empowerment.
(269) 234-0165 View (269) 234-0165
Photo of Candice Carrasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Candice Carrasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
I also specialize in OCD and anxiety.
I believe in the power of therapy and that you are the director of your own journey. Let’s face it - life is hard and having a safe, supportive, compassionate space to tell your story can help as you navigate its terrain. I pride myself on working collaboratively with clients to bring about the change they desire whether it relates to anxieties, transitions, loss, mood impairment, self-acceptance, life stressors or any other area of growth and development. Together we can learn to better cope and roll with life’s punches.
I also specialize in OCD and anxiety.
I believe in the power of therapy and that you are the director of your own journey. Let’s face it - life is hard and having a safe, supportive, compassionate space to tell your story can help as you navigate its terrain. I pride myself on working collaboratively with clients to bring about the change they desire whether it relates to anxieties, transitions, loss, mood impairment, self-acceptance, life stressors or any other area of growth and development. Together we can learn to better cope and roll with life’s punches.
(517) 258-3035 View (517) 258-3035
Photo of Carolyn Madry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Big Rapids, MI
Carolyn Madry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety (including OCD & social anxiety), disordered eating/body image, PTSD & trauma (including abuse/assault), and loss.
A wise philosopher once said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Small changes, even increasing self-awareness, can collect and snowball into life-changing transformations. These changes and transformations currently may be hard to imagine or fully believe, and we can still choose to bravely take that step. Whatever length your journey, I offer support along the road and a safe space for exploration, expression, insight, and transformation.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety (including OCD & social anxiety), disordered eating/body image, PTSD & trauma (including abuse/assault), and loss.
A wise philosopher once said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Small changes, even increasing self-awareness, can collect and snowball into life-changing transformations. These changes and transformations currently may be hard to imagine or fully believe, and we can still choose to bravely take that step. Whatever length your journey, I offer support along the road and a safe space for exploration, expression, insight, and transformation.
(616) 207-1592 View (616) 207-1592
Photo of Amy Plettner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
Amy Plettner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Michigan as a social worker with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, OCD & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and anxiety. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am licensed in Michigan as a social worker with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, OCD & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and anxiety. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(906) 287-4520 View (906) 287-4520
Photo of NOCD-Therapists for OCD, Psychologist in Big Rapids, MI
NOCD-Therapists for OCD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
Imagine what life would be like if you weren't bothered by OCD. NOCD is here to help you regain peace of mind. NOCD is a digital health company that’s focused on effectively treating people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Inside the NOCD mobile app, you can work with one of our licensed mental health therapists with specialty training in OCD. When your therapist isn’t available, access support communities and therapeutic tools - so that you are never alone. NOCD’s protocol has been proven to reduce OCD severity by 40% in less than 10 weeks.
(872) 210-5638 View (872) 210-5638
Photo of The Way Ahead Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Big Rapids, MI
The Way Ahead Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I offer EMDR for Trauma and Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
If you are like most people who come to therapy, you've probably felt like you've been running in circles for a long time. Dealing with the same feelings, thoughts, memories, and worries over and over again. In the meantime, you've noticed your life passing you by. What if you could start your life TODAY? What if you don't have to wait? Healing comes from the Latin word for 'wholeness.' To heal is to become whole again. We believe within the pain of suffering can lay our greatest strengths. And there is no part of you that deserves to be cast aside. We don't focus on changing who you are, but on creating the life that you want.
I offer EMDR for Trauma and Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
If you are like most people who come to therapy, you've probably felt like you've been running in circles for a long time. Dealing with the same feelings, thoughts, memories, and worries over and over again. In the meantime, you've noticed your life passing you by. What if you could start your life TODAY? What if you don't have to wait? Healing comes from the Latin word for 'wholeness.' To heal is to become whole again. We believe within the pain of suffering can lay our greatest strengths. And there is no part of you that deserves to be cast aside. We don't focus on changing who you are, but on creating the life that you want.
(269) 210-8341 View (269) 210-8341

See more therapy options for Big Rapids

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.