Multicultural Therapists in Highland, Denver, CO

Photo of Melina Rodriguez, Counselor in Highland, Denver, CO
Melina Rodriguez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
My specialties are working through childhood Trauma, Relationship issues, Shame/Guilt, Empowerment and Self-worth, Anxiety and Depression, Psychedelic Integration and Sex Worker/Sex Positive support- all through a trauma informed and multicultural lens.
SERVICIOS EN ESPAÑOL- You are free to be YOU. We will find comfort in the shared human experience and create space for the possibilities of growth far beyond the walls you previously built to protect yourself but which are no longer serving you. I strive to create a space of non-judgement, radical acceptance, and unconditional positive regard to meet you wherever you are at and facilitate your personal journey. Together, we can rewrite the stories you may have been living in pre-defined by shame, trauma, culture, stigma, and external expectations.
My specialties are working through childhood Trauma, Relationship issues, Shame/Guilt, Empowerment and Self-worth, Anxiety and Depression, Psychedelic Integration and Sex Worker/Sex Positive support- all through a trauma informed and multicultural lens.
SERVICIOS EN ESPAÑOL- You are free to be YOU. We will find comfort in the shared human experience and create space for the possibilities of growth far beyond the walls you previously built to protect yourself but which are no longer serving you. I strive to create a space of non-judgement, radical acceptance, and unconditional positive regard to meet you wherever you are at and facilitate your personal journey. Together, we can rewrite the stories you may have been living in pre-defined by shame, trauma, culture, stigma, and external expectations.
(720) 807-6726 View (720) 807-6726
Photo of Salvia Artman, Psychologist in Highland, Denver, CO
Salvia Artman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. Salvia Artman. I am currently providing teletherapy in the state of Colorado. I am committed to providing trauma-informed, multicultural-oriented, LGBTQ+ affirmative, and climate-aware therapy. I utilize a holistic framework in therapy and explore client concerns using a sociocultural and systemic lens. Furthermore, I integrate scientific research, client data, and clinical expertise to provide evidence-based practice.
Hi, I'm Dr. Salvia Artman. I am currently providing teletherapy in the state of Colorado. I am committed to providing trauma-informed, multicultural-oriented, LGBTQ+ affirmative, and climate-aware therapy. I utilize a holistic framework in therapy and explore client concerns using a sociocultural and systemic lens. Furthermore, I integrate scientific research, client data, and clinical expertise to provide evidence-based practice.
(720) 571-9264 View (720) 571-9264
Photo of Nat Roth, Pre-Licensed Professional in Highland, Denver, CO
Nat Roth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFTC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
As a somatic, experiential therapist, sessions with me will be engaging! Couples and individuals find me hoping to dive deeper in their therapeutic work. I specialize in integrating experiential and somatic therapy models, considering the whole human and the systems that impact us all. I specialize in seeing couples and other relational styles who need support in navigating trust ruptures, communication struggles, trauma (complex, acute, and ancestral), parenting issues, neurodivergency, sexuality, and identity. In addition, I love offering individual work focused within the Internal Family Systems and somatic therapy models.
As a somatic, experiential therapist, sessions with me will be engaging! Couples and individuals find me hoping to dive deeper in their therapeutic work. I specialize in integrating experiential and somatic therapy models, considering the whole human and the systems that impact us all. I specialize in seeing couples and other relational styles who need support in navigating trust ruptures, communication struggles, trauma (complex, acute, and ancestral), parenting issues, neurodivergency, sexuality, and identity. In addition, I love offering individual work focused within the Internal Family Systems and somatic therapy models.
(970) 627-6082 View (970) 627-6082
Photo of Jade Cooley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland, Denver, CO
Jade Cooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
In a world that often wants us to feel badly about ourselves, it's easy to feel overwhelmed if we don't conform to the "norm". I am here to stand by you in confronting the structures that contribute to our mental challenges while carving out new routes to emotional well-being. My focus includes holding space for my LGBTQIA community, fostering safety and respect for neurodivergent folks, and offering vital support to survivors of trauma, especially those affected by sexual trauma. Whether you're just starting out on your mental health journey, or are looking for a change of pace, I can help get you where you want to be!
In a world that often wants us to feel badly about ourselves, it's easy to feel overwhelmed if we don't conform to the "norm". I am here to stand by you in confronting the structures that contribute to our mental challenges while carving out new routes to emotional well-being. My focus includes holding space for my LGBTQIA community, fostering safety and respect for neurodivergent folks, and offering vital support to survivors of trauma, especially those affected by sexual trauma. Whether you're just starting out on your mental health journey, or are looking for a change of pace, I can help get you where you want to be!
(303) 562-1569 View (303) 562-1569
Photo of Mara Richman, Registered Psychotherapist in Highland, Denver, CO
Mara Richman
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
My style is a unique blend of warmth, empathy, and clinical proficiency, which can help for me to be a trusted guide for individuals and couples navigating through life's challenges. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of trauma, I provide a safe and nurturing space for her clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I use personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs, which equips clients with practical tools and coping strategies to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
My style is a unique blend of warmth, empathy, and clinical proficiency, which can help for me to be a trusted guide for individuals and couples navigating through life's challenges. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of trauma, I provide a safe and nurturing space for her clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I use personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs, which equips clients with practical tools and coping strategies to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
(720) 807-6898 View (720) 807-6898
Photo of Emily A Kerr, Psychologist in Highland, Denver, CO
Emily A Kerr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Our providers at EK Counseling are accepting new clients. You've been wrestling with the idea of a transition, but unsure what it will look like, and how to take the first steps. The frustration and disconnection sets in, and you're left feeling stuck and in even more pain as you miss out on your life. You’re tired of disappointing yourself. Reconnecting with what truly matters to you is the key to moving out of the muck and back into a life of meaning. I am here to assist and empower you as you hone in on what is most important to you and reclaim the life you want. You CAN do hard things, we CAN do hard things together.
Our providers at EK Counseling are accepting new clients. You've been wrestling with the idea of a transition, but unsure what it will look like, and how to take the first steps. The frustration and disconnection sets in, and you're left feeling stuck and in even more pain as you miss out on your life. You’re tired of disappointing yourself. Reconnecting with what truly matters to you is the key to moving out of the muck and back into a life of meaning. I am here to assist and empower you as you hone in on what is most important to you and reclaim the life you want. You CAN do hard things, we CAN do hard things together.
(720) 679-1090 View (720) 679-1090
Photo of Gwen Child, Licensed Social Worker in Highland, Denver, CO
Gwen Child
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Life can indeed feel like a relentless roller coaster with its ups and downs, stressors, and uncertainties. Whether it's the challenges of balancing work or school, making life-altering decisions, or navigating relationships, you might find yourself facing patterns or habits that no longer align with your growth.
Life can indeed feel like a relentless roller coaster with its ups and downs, stressors, and uncertainties. Whether it's the challenges of balancing work or school, making life-altering decisions, or navigating relationships, you might find yourself facing patterns or habits that no longer align with your growth.
(720) 903-2262 View (720) 903-2262
Photo of Adrian Kunemund, Psychologist in Highland, Denver, CO
Adrian Kunemund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
As queer women, we often have more challenges to navigate than others and sometimes we need extra support. I can provide you with that support. I work with queer women who are struggling with feelings of stress, relationships concerns, dating, anxiety, parenting, marriage, depression, & frustration. I also help people struggling with ADHD and with grief/loss. I am a doctoral level psychologist & have graduated & trained in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association.
As queer women, we often have more challenges to navigate than others and sometimes we need extra support. I can provide you with that support. I work with queer women who are struggling with feelings of stress, relationships concerns, dating, anxiety, parenting, marriage, depression, & frustration. I also help people struggling with ADHD and with grief/loss. I am a doctoral level psychologist & have graduated & trained in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association.
(404) 948-5253 View (404) 948-5253
Photo of Jamie Hatchett, Pre-Licensed Professional in Highland, Denver, CO
Jamie Hatchett
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I am a British psychotherapist, passionate about psychotherapy and the impact it can have on society. My passion for psychotherapy stems from my own experiences with therapy and the powerful impact it made on my own life. I have a reflective style that I bring into the therapeutic environment in order to achieve deeper and more authentic connections with my clients.
I am a British psychotherapist, passionate about psychotherapy and the impact it can have on society. My passion for psychotherapy stems from my own experiences with therapy and the powerful impact it made on my own life. I have a reflective style that I bring into the therapeutic environment in order to achieve deeper and more authentic connections with my clients.
(720) 358-8868 View (720) 358-8868
Photo of Milou Haskin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Highland, Denver, CO
Milou Haskin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
I am passionate about helping others cultivate a well of inner resources and tools to navigate the challenges of life, seeing each individual’s well-being as contributing to our collective healing. We aren’t meant to find our way through on our own. I’m so happy to see you here. My approach is first founded on developing a supportive space of acceptance and understanding, from which therapy is collaboratively tailored to your individual needs.Together, we will work together to experience and connect with emotions, identify patterns, explore the roots of limiting beliefs, discover a sense of purpose, and uncover your innate wisdom.
I am passionate about helping others cultivate a well of inner resources and tools to navigate the challenges of life, seeing each individual’s well-being as contributing to our collective healing. We aren’t meant to find our way through on our own. I’m so happy to see you here. My approach is first founded on developing a supportive space of acceptance and understanding, from which therapy is collaboratively tailored to your individual needs.Together, we will work together to experience and connect with emotions, identify patterns, explore the roots of limiting beliefs, discover a sense of purpose, and uncover your innate wisdom.
(720) 547-2602 View (720) 547-2602
Photo of Jessica Rowan at Embrace Today Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland, Denver, CO
Jessica Rowan at Embrace Today Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
If you are a person in Colorado or Oregon and have a desire to heal from past trauma or attachment wounds, I would love to be a part of your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Colorado and Oregon and provide fully remote teletherapy services to clients in both states. My goal with Embrace Today Counseling is to create a safe space where trauma and attachment wounds can be interacted with and healed in a way that allows the client to feel completely aligned, stable, and confident. Clinically I practice from a trauma informed, whole person perspective and believe that the client is the expert on themselves.
If you are a person in Colorado or Oregon and have a desire to heal from past trauma or attachment wounds, I would love to be a part of your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Colorado and Oregon and provide fully remote teletherapy services to clients in both states. My goal with Embrace Today Counseling is to create a safe space where trauma and attachment wounds can be interacted with and healed in a way that allows the client to feel completely aligned, stable, and confident. Clinically I practice from a trauma informed, whole person perspective and believe that the client is the expert on themselves.
(541) 605-8801 View (541) 605-8801
Photo of Christina M. Valastro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland, Denver, CO
Christina M. Valastro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211
Welcome! Stepping into therapy takes courage, it's a sign you're ready for positive change. All humans have blind spots, having empathetic guidance directs your discovery and healing. I offer an open atmosphere to find clarity, support and growth. I will honor your journey with non-judgment, and extreme respect. Your challenges and strengths can facilitate your new path. The process is collaborative and I will uphold the goal for it to be productive.
Welcome! Stepping into therapy takes courage, it's a sign you're ready for positive change. All humans have blind spots, having empathetic guidance directs your discovery and healing. I offer an open atmosphere to find clarity, support and growth. I will honor your journey with non-judgment, and extreme respect. Your challenges and strengths can facilitate your new path. The process is collaborative and I will uphold the goal for it to be productive.
(970) 355-3134 View (970) 355-3134
Photo of Stephanie Leon, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Highland, Denver, CO
Stephanie Leon
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland, Denver, CO 80212
Not accepting new clients
Do people often call you “too sensitive”? Do you feel pressured to keep everyone happy, often neglecting your own needs? Do you feel overcome with emotion constantly and are unsure of how to handle it? Maybe you’ve found yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, unsure of where to go next. Maybe you’re struggling to make sense of a painful event. Life can be so challenging and can leave us feeling fragile, broken, and lost. You shouldn’t have to face this all alone. We all possess the innate ability to heal. Sometimes we just need the gentle guidance of someone who is on our side.
Do people often call you “too sensitive”? Do you feel pressured to keep everyone happy, often neglecting your own needs? Do you feel overcome with emotion constantly and are unsure of how to handle it? Maybe you’ve found yourself stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, unsure of where to go next. Maybe you’re struggling to make sense of a painful event. Life can be so challenging and can leave us feeling fragile, broken, and lost. You shouldn’t have to face this all alone. We all possess the innate ability to heal. Sometimes we just need the gentle guidance of someone who is on our side.
(720) 740-5147 View (720) 740-5147
Photo of Dr. Melody M Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Highland, Denver, CO
Dr. Melody M Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highland, Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal client is the person, couple or family navigating communication styles, life and career transitions, and relationship difficulties. They might also struggle with insecurities and self acceptance. They navigate social justice issues in their communities, families and work spaces. More than anything, my clients need to feel accepted and respected. They exist in spaces where they are judged and misunderstood. They are sometimes in danger of harm for the way they look, the way they love, for their beliefs, or identities. Like anyone else, they want to exist in a world that tells them they shouldn't.
My ideal client is the person, couple or family navigating communication styles, life and career transitions, and relationship difficulties. They might also struggle with insecurities and self acceptance. They navigate social justice issues in their communities, families and work spaces. More than anything, my clients need to feel accepted and respected. They exist in spaces where they are judged and misunderstood. They are sometimes in danger of harm for the way they look, the way they love, for their beliefs, or identities. Like anyone else, they want to exist in a world that tells them they shouldn't.
(720) 459-4868 View (720) 459-4868

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Nahed Barakat, Psychologist in Highland, Denver, CO
Dr. Nahed Barakat
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who are feeling stuck in their lives, their relationships, and who want to gain a deeper understanding of how they show up in the world. Building on your own goals and values, my approach focuses on your unique needs and what you want out of life. I work with a variety of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship concerns, multicultural issues, identity development, and grief & loss. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where you will be challenged to examine your underlying beliefs to help you create a life that feels deeply meaningful and worth living.
I work with adults who are feeling stuck in their lives, their relationships, and who want to gain a deeper understanding of how they show up in the world. Building on your own goals and values, my approach focuses on your unique needs and what you want out of life. I work with a variety of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship concerns, multicultural issues, identity development, and grief & loss. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where you will be challenged to examine your underlying beliefs to help you create a life that feels deeply meaningful and worth living.
(720) 806-6621 View (720) 806-6621
Photo of Holistic, Transpersonal & Trauma Informed Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland, Denver, CO
Holistic, Transpersonal & Trauma Informed Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RMT, CH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a multicultural practitioner I am integrally connected to various cultures which enable me to balance multiple perspectives, as I work with different people around diverse and complex issues; although I was educated according to traditional and psychodynamic viewpoints, my practice is to combine my formal training with holistic, trauma and social justice oriented techniques.
*Please note that I continue to be 100% distance based for the time being* It isn't always easy to reach outside of ourselves when we are feeling deeply lonely and experiencing extreme emotions. These are precisely the times, though, when it makes sense to try to find people with whom we can talk without too much fear of judgment or rejection. In my role as Therapist, I actively commit to strive to be one of those people; to meet you wherever you are emotionally, in a comfortable, confidential and respectful setting.
As a multicultural practitioner I am integrally connected to various cultures which enable me to balance multiple perspectives, as I work with different people around diverse and complex issues; although I was educated according to traditional and psychodynamic viewpoints, my practice is to combine my formal training with holistic, trauma and social justice oriented techniques.
*Please note that I continue to be 100% distance based for the time being* It isn't always easy to reach outside of ourselves when we are feeling deeply lonely and experiencing extreme emotions. These are precisely the times, though, when it makes sense to try to find people with whom we can talk without too much fear of judgment or rejection. In my role as Therapist, I actively commit to strive to be one of those people; to meet you wherever you are emotionally, in a comfortable, confidential and respectful setting.
(413) 650-1304 View (413) 650-1304
Photo of Caela Day, Psychologist in Highland, Denver, CO
Caela Day
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
My therapeutic approach is rooted in attachment, person-centered, multicultural, neuro-affirmative, and trauma-informed frameworks.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in treating clients with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Therapy can help with navigating life transitions, identity, relationship concerns, and family of origin issues. I seek to listen, explore where you've been, and identify current sources of distress. Therapy is not a one size fits all approach and developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship is key. I'm here to offer some suggestions about strategies, treatment modalities, and approaches that may help you meet your goals in a way that fits for you.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in attachment, person-centered, multicultural, neuro-affirmative, and trauma-informed frameworks.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in treating clients with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Therapy can help with navigating life transitions, identity, relationship concerns, and family of origin issues. I seek to listen, explore where you've been, and identify current sources of distress. Therapy is not a one size fits all approach and developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship is key. I'm here to offer some suggestions about strategies, treatment modalities, and approaches that may help you meet your goals in a way that fits for you.
(720) 702-1691 View (720) 702-1691
Photo of Elizabeth A Fulton, Counselor in Highland, Denver, CO
Elizabeth A Fulton
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80236
I offer hope; a holistic perspective; a multicultural lens; a therapeutic relationship that is empathetic, kind, patient, and relatable; positivity; and practical tools.
I am currently serving clients virtually in Colorado and Florida. Whether you're ready to jump in or you're just exploring if therapy is a good fit for you, I'm here to walk next to you on your journey. Therapy is about helping you, the client, be the best version of who you want to be, at whatever stage you’re in. We work together to help you identify and choose what you want and need in your life, and empower you to work through the things that are preventing you from being there. “The things” could be anything causing difficulty for you or keeping you "stuck". I can help you see beyond what has been or what is, to what can be.
I offer hope; a holistic perspective; a multicultural lens; a therapeutic relationship that is empathetic, kind, patient, and relatable; positivity; and practical tools.
I am currently serving clients virtually in Colorado and Florida. Whether you're ready to jump in or you're just exploring if therapy is a good fit for you, I'm here to walk next to you on your journey. Therapy is about helping you, the client, be the best version of who you want to be, at whatever stage you’re in. We work together to help you identify and choose what you want and need in your life, and empower you to work through the things that are preventing you from being there. “The things” could be anything causing difficulty for you or keeping you "stuck". I can help you see beyond what has been or what is, to what can be.
(305) 602-4778 View (305) 602-4778
Photo of Rohini Gupta, Psychologist in Highland, Denver, CO
Rohini Gupta
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I use my expertise in multicultural issues to help clients who are struggling to balance different worlds and help to navigate these competing demands.
I create a warm, nurturing and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable to be yourself and learn more about who you are, identify what you want, and take steps toward achieving your personal goals. In my work, I use an integrative approach to therapy. This allows me to be flexible in meeting your needs. I believe that many factors influence who we are and how we engage with the world. Our pasts are important and I work collaboratively with you to understand those influences and utilize strategies to help you move toward the life you want to live.
I use my expertise in multicultural issues to help clients who are struggling to balance different worlds and help to navigate these competing demands.
I create a warm, nurturing and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable to be yourself and learn more about who you are, identify what you want, and take steps toward achieving your personal goals. In my work, I use an integrative approach to therapy. This allows me to be flexible in meeting your needs. I believe that many factors influence who we are and how we engage with the world. Our pasts are important and I work collaboratively with you to understand those influences and utilize strategies to help you move toward the life you want to live.
(720) 207-9698 View (720) 207-9698
Photo of Shannon Kinsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland, Denver, CO
Shannon Kinsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
I use a strengths-based approach, with an integrative and multicultural model, bringing both evidenced-based practices while remaining person-centered empowering you to guide your treatment. I want to work collaboratively with you to help you understand and change the patterns in your life that may be holding you back. Whether it is due to mental health struggles, past trauma, life transitions, daily endeavors, confidence, or relational issues, I want to aid in finding solutions. You don't have to navigate this alone any longer, let's work together towards your goals and growth you have been striving for.
I use a strengths-based approach, with an integrative and multicultural model, bringing both evidenced-based practices while remaining person-centered empowering you to guide your treatment. I want to work collaboratively with you to help you understand and change the patterns in your life that may be holding you back. Whether it is due to mental health struggles, past trauma, life transitions, daily endeavors, confidence, or relational issues, I want to aid in finding solutions. You don't have to navigate this alone any longer, let's work together towards your goals and growth you have been striving for.
(303) 835-0407 View (303) 835-0407

See more therapy options for Highland, Denver

Multicultural Therapists

What type of therapy is multicultural therapy?

Multicultural therapy is not tied to any specific therapy; rather, it is an overarching approach to therapy that aims to acknowledge and address the influence that factors like race, gender identity, and cultural background can have on someone’s life. Multicultural approaches can be applied to CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and others, and can be practiced with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

What can I expect from multicultural therapy?

Multicultural counseling should be tailored to the client’s unique identity and cultural needs. Such approaches often prioritize the building of trust so that the client feels comfortable exploring various aspects of their identity and any challenges caused by mismatches between their identity and the dominant culture. Beyond that, the format and timeline of therapy will be heavily influenced by the therapist’s preferred therapy approach and the specific problems for which the client sought therapy.

Can multicultural therapy help treat trauma?

Yes. Cultural factors such as racial background, gender identity and or sexuality, and immigration or refugee status can influence both whether someone experiences trauma and how they cope afterward. Multicultural approaches to trauma-informed care will be aware of these influences, helping the client recognize how their response to trauma may be shaped by their cultural background and identify coping mechanisms that take their identity into account.

What are the benefits of seeing a multicultural therapist?

Members of minority groups who seek therapy are sometimes frustrated by providers who don’t understand their cultural background or dismiss the ways in which race, gender, or other facets of their identity influence their lived experience. Seeing a multicultural therapist can help these clients feel seen, understood, and able to develop solutions to life challenges that take their upbringing, beliefs, and past experiences into account.