Photo of Peyton Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Peyton Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
My approach is warm, straightforward, non-judgmental, and strength-based.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress at work/home, struggling in your relationships, or battling addiction, know that you're not alone. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals just like you find clarity, healing, and meaningful change. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, and not weighed down by your thoughts and emotions. It may seem like a distant dream now, but it can be a reality. Change is possible, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
My approach is warm, straightforward, non-judgmental, and strength-based.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress at work/home, struggling in your relationships, or battling addiction, know that you're not alone. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals just like you find clarity, healing, and meaningful change. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, and not weighed down by your thoughts and emotions. It may seem like a distant dream now, but it can be a reality. Change is possible, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(214) 225-3391 View (214) 225-3391
Photo of Infinite Equanimity , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Infinite Equanimity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75240  (Online Only)
Mission: to provide a safe, healing-centered and strength-based engagement, emotional respite, mental relaxation & rehydration.
Have you ever found yourself continuously pouring from an empty glass? Are you unable to free yourself from the bounds of uncertainty and stagnation? Take a chance on yourself. With services from myself, LaPatria here at Infinite Equanimity, you will be able to recognize what is needed to replenish yourself before you are able to pour into something or someone else! Don’t let temporary circumstances dictate how YOU view your life. With guided support, relief is on the horizon and you will begin to gain a better understanding of life and personal challenges. If you’re on this profile, you’re already on the right track!
Mission: to provide a safe, healing-centered and strength-based engagement, emotional respite, mental relaxation & rehydration.
Have you ever found yourself continuously pouring from an empty glass? Are you unable to free yourself from the bounds of uncertainty and stagnation? Take a chance on yourself. With services from myself, LaPatria here at Infinite Equanimity, you will be able to recognize what is needed to replenish yourself before you are able to pour into something or someone else! Don’t let temporary circumstances dictate how YOU view your life. With guided support, relief is on the horizon and you will begin to gain a better understanding of life and personal challenges. If you’re on this profile, you’re already on the right track!
(469) 410-7832 View (469) 410-7832
Photo of Beth Carpenter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Beth Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC-S, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
My clinical style involves strength-based approaches to help my clients feel supported while incorporating evidence-based practices and providing direct feedback and guidance.
There are many reasons to seek therapy, and I consider it an honor to support clients during this courageous journey. I work hard to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental space where it is safe to be vulnerable, and I help my clients feel empowered to make changes towards growth and healing. Having specialized training and fifteen years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in the power of relationships and the transformative experience of feeling truly accepted and seen. It can feel scary to open up, and I can support you by collaborating with you throughout the process.
My clinical style involves strength-based approaches to help my clients feel supported while incorporating evidence-based practices and providing direct feedback and guidance.
There are many reasons to seek therapy, and I consider it an honor to support clients during this courageous journey. I work hard to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental space where it is safe to be vulnerable, and I help my clients feel empowered to make changes towards growth and healing. Having specialized training and fifteen years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in the power of relationships and the transformative experience of feeling truly accepted and seen. It can feel scary to open up, and I can support you by collaborating with you throughout the process.
(469) 423-8709 View (469) 423-8709
Photo of Crystal Nicole Gayle, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Crystal Nicole Gayle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214
I am a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. I use a strength-based, collaborative, and multicultural approach when I work with my clients. I believe in creating an honest and warm therapeutic environment while developing a strong rapport with each client or family as we work towards meeting their treatment goals. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help individuals become the best versions of themselves.
I am a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. I use a strength-based, collaborative, and multicultural approach when I work with my clients. I believe in creating an honest and warm therapeutic environment while developing a strong rapport with each client or family as we work towards meeting their treatment goals. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help individuals become the best versions of themselves.
(972) 458-5478 View (972) 458-5478
Photo of Allison Tardif Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Allison Tardif Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT , LPC, ATR-BC, CLAT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
www.allisontardif.com Licensed in TX, CT, VA. As a Licensed Professional Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate self-awareness, growth, and change. Engaging in therapy requires courage. My approach is strength based, client centered, mind body focused, and holistically grounded. As an art therapist, clients have the option to engage in art therapy (but not required). No art experience is required. The creative process and artwork are explored to uncover insight into thoughts & feelings.
www.allisontardif.com Licensed in TX, CT, VA. As a Licensed Professional Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate self-awareness, growth, and change. Engaging in therapy requires courage. My approach is strength based, client centered, mind body focused, and holistically grounded. As an art therapist, clients have the option to engage in art therapy (but not required). No art experience is required. The creative process and artwork are explored to uncover insight into thoughts & feelings.
(469) 415-1326 View (469) 415-1326
Photo of Diamond Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Diamond Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75287
As we take this journey, I will use a number of different modalities, including mindfulness and strength-based approaches to assist you in acquiring the necessary skills for effective mood management/regulation, confidence building, increased communication, and/or stress reduction.
Do you understand how a wound heals? Think about it. First, the pain needs to be acknowledged. Next, it needs to be tended to and stabilized. Then, the work of healing from within can begin. I believe in the significance of this understanding because, no matter what pains life may offer, we all possess an innate capacity to acknowledge, grow, and inspire change in our lives. We also need someone who is on our side, willing and committed to providing the conditions needed to feel safe and comfortable to express, explore, and heal from our struggles. Only then can we learn to lean into change.
As we take this journey, I will use a number of different modalities, including mindfulness and strength-based approaches to assist you in acquiring the necessary skills for effective mood management/regulation, confidence building, increased communication, and/or stress reduction.
Do you understand how a wound heals? Think about it. First, the pain needs to be acknowledged. Next, it needs to be tended to and stabilized. Then, the work of healing from within can begin. I believe in the significance of this understanding because, no matter what pains life may offer, we all possess an innate capacity to acknowledge, grow, and inspire change in our lives. We also need someone who is on our side, willing and committed to providing the conditions needed to feel safe and comfortable to express, explore, and heal from our struggles. Only then can we learn to lean into change.
(469) 382-4023 x102 View (469) 382-4023 x102
Photo of Turner Consulting & Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Turner Consulting & Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
I help to identify system dynamics and assist in developing realistic goals utilizing a strength-based approach with emphasis on empowerment engagement and support.
Today you are one step closer to a new you, where you feel empowered and on a path to growth and well being. As a solution focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations in our past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I help to identify system dynamics and assist in developing realistic goals utilizing a strength-based approach with emphasis on empowerment engagement and support.
Today you are one step closer to a new you, where you feel empowered and on a path to growth and well being. As a solution focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations in our past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(469) 336-2214 View (469) 336-2214
Photo of Kimberly J. Stapert Beard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Kimberly J. Stapert Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Welcome! Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback, or an ongoing problem, I can assist you. There is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults. Together, we will discover new meaning in your experiences, while identifying opportunities for healing and growth. Therapy varies in length of time depending on your unique story, worldview, personality and needs.
Welcome! Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback, or an ongoing problem, I can assist you. There is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults. Together, we will discover new meaning in your experiences, while identifying opportunities for healing and growth. Therapy varies in length of time depending on your unique story, worldview, personality and needs.
(469) 388-0276 View (469) 388-0276
Photo of Tony Cesario, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Tony Cesario
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
My name is Tony Cesario and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I live in the Austin area and have worked with clients from many diverse backgrounds and identities. Recently I have been working with many LGBTQIA+ clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/image issues. I believe in a holistic and strength based approach to therapy which means that I am interested in you as an entire person and that I want to help you find the strength inside yourself that you may not realize is already there.
My name is Tony Cesario and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I live in the Austin area and have worked with clients from many diverse backgrounds and identities. Recently I have been working with many LGBTQIA+ clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/image issues. I believe in a holistic and strength based approach to therapy which means that I am interested in you as an entire person and that I want to help you find the strength inside yourself that you may not realize is already there.
(737) 727-3501 View (737) 727-3501
Photo of Pamela Dowell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Pamela Dowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
Approaches varied from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, mindfulness, and other strength-based approaches.
PLEASE check "spam mail" for response..... Life can bring about many challenges and often we feel a need to tackle it alone. Accepting those where they are and helping them through their personal issues can increase one's equality of life. Providing support in the area of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, past/current trauma, stress, grief and work/life balance include motivating and teaching while tailoring to your individual needs. In this path that will help you become the best version of yourself in a non-judgmental and safe place is what I strive to assist you in.
Approaches varied from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, mindfulness, and other strength-based approaches.
PLEASE check "spam mail" for response..... Life can bring about many challenges and often we feel a need to tackle it alone. Accepting those where they are and helping them through their personal issues can increase one's equality of life. Providing support in the area of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, past/current trauma, stress, grief and work/life balance include motivating and teaching while tailoring to your individual needs. In this path that will help you become the best version of yourself in a non-judgmental and safe place is what I strive to assist you in.
(817) 396-7011 View (817) 396-7011
Photo of DIANA M Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
DIANA M Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Listening, empowering & being present with my clients is what I am passionate about. I have about 7 years of counseling & clinical experience.My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents & individuals all ages including geriatrics. Some of the therapeutic modalities I have used with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, traumas or other mental health issues are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Strength Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Focused therapy. I don't believe in a "one size fits all" approach. I will help guide you & assist you in coming up with strategies to help conquer your life.
Listening, empowering & being present with my clients is what I am passionate about. I have about 7 years of counseling & clinical experience.My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents & individuals all ages including geriatrics. Some of the therapeutic modalities I have used with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, traumas or other mental health issues are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Strength Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Focused therapy. I don't believe in a "one size fits all" approach. I will help guide you & assist you in coming up with strategies to help conquer your life.
(214) 380-2435 View (214) 380-2435
Photo of Misty D East, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Misty D East
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
My name is Misty East and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing therapy to adolescents, families, couples and the geriatric population for over 15 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns. My passion has been working with clients with trauma histories (sexual, physical and emotional). I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family issues and relationship problems from a strength based and if requested, a Christian based approach.
My name is Misty East and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing therapy to adolescents, families, couples and the geriatric population for over 15 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns. My passion has been working with clients with trauma histories (sexual, physical and emotional). I work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family issues and relationship problems from a strength based and if requested, a Christian based approach.
(972) 449-5769 View (972) 449-5769
Photo of Bill Deggs, LPC, RPT (Fyt Clinic PLLC), Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Bill Deggs, LPC, RPT (Fyt Clinic PLLC)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75202
I myself struggled with Anxiety and Depression as a young person. I often like to joke that I took my first psychology class as a DIY project. As I discovered what worked for me, I realized that I wanted to share that knowledge with other people. I view therapy as a place to feel safe, express feelings, explore relationships, describe experiences, and (if necessary) revisit old wounds to heal from them. In my practice I am passionate about utilizing Positive Psychology, strength-based approaches and CBT to achieve better mental health.
I myself struggled with Anxiety and Depression as a young person. I often like to joke that I took my first psychology class as a DIY project. As I discovered what worked for me, I realized that I wanted to share that knowledge with other people. I view therapy as a place to feel safe, express feelings, explore relationships, describe experiences, and (if necessary) revisit old wounds to heal from them. In my practice I am passionate about utilizing Positive Psychology, strength-based approaches and CBT to achieve better mental health.
(512) 265-8884 View (512) 265-8884
Photo of Steffanie Shea Strawbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Steffanie Shea Strawbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I believe that everyone needs someone who will give them a safe, non-judgmental place to work through problems or stresses. I see the role of a therapist as someone who dives into the deep end of your emotions/problems and helps guide you on how to swim your way out. I will be there if you start to drown to help keep your head above water, but I will also help you develop the skills to get out of the deep end and know how to navigate it should you end up there again.
I believe that everyone needs someone who will give them a safe, non-judgmental place to work through problems or stresses. I see the role of a therapist as someone who dives into the deep end of your emotions/problems and helps guide you on how to swim your way out. I will be there if you start to drown to help keep your head above water, but I will also help you develop the skills to get out of the deep end and know how to navigate it should you end up there again.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Gail York, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Gail York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor bringing more than fifteen years experience in counseling individuals of various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, including children, adolescents and adults. I am an empathic, organized professional with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. I am compassionate and solution oriented using several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help people suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction and many other mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor bringing more than fifteen years experience in counseling individuals of various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, including children, adolescents and adults. I am an empathic, organized professional with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. I am compassionate and solution oriented using several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help people suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction and many other mental health issues.
(321) 326-9154 View (321) 326-9154
Photo of Ayushi Acharya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ayushi Acharya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Please do not call. Please email only or visit my website: www.loveyourbehavior.com to book a FREE 15-minute consultation. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, misunderstood, depressed, anxious- there could be a multitude of reasons why. When life dips into the realm of the unexpected- we some times need to reach out for help. As a supporter of you, I want you to achieve your best sense of self. Through the therapeutic process, together we can achieve your goals and help manage your mental health by examining your thoughts, choices and relationships. I currently practice in Texas & Georgia & North Carolina via Telehealth.
Please do not call. Please email only or visit my website: www.loveyourbehavior.com to book a FREE 15-minute consultation. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, misunderstood, depressed, anxious- there could be a multitude of reasons why. When life dips into the realm of the unexpected- we some times need to reach out for help. As a supporter of you, I want you to achieve your best sense of self. Through the therapeutic process, together we can achieve your goals and help manage your mental health by examining your thoughts, choices and relationships. I currently practice in Texas & Georgia & North Carolina via Telehealth.
(469) 290-3738 View (469) 290-3738
Photo of Jennifer Eklund, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jennifer Eklund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
There are many reasons someone may be seeking counseling whether it be for the first time, or deciding to restart therapy. You may not be feeling like your usual self lately; lacking motivation, having trouble making decisions, sleeping too much or having trouble falling asleep, or feeling “stuck” in life. Do you just feel "off?" Parents of teens, are you feeling like things are out of control? Maybe your teen is participating in risky behaviors isolating themselves, struggling academically, constantly fighting with you, & won’t open up about anything. You’re worried about the changes you see & feel it’s time to seek outside help.
There are many reasons someone may be seeking counseling whether it be for the first time, or deciding to restart therapy. You may not be feeling like your usual self lately; lacking motivation, having trouble making decisions, sleeping too much or having trouble falling asleep, or feeling “stuck” in life. Do you just feel "off?" Parents of teens, are you feeling like things are out of control? Maybe your teen is participating in risky behaviors isolating themselves, struggling academically, constantly fighting with you, & won’t open up about anything. You’re worried about the changes you see & feel it’s time to seek outside help.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Samantha Boubel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Samantha Boubel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75214
Hello! My name is Samantha Boubel. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience helping children, teens, and families forge a safe place to move towards social and emotional health & wellness. I help children understand their thoughts, feelings, impulses, and needs. I help kiddos discover their strengths and grow in self-control and responsibility. I have experience in treating life changes, trauma, abuse, neglect, self-injurious behaviors, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, autism spectrum, developmental delays, school adjustment, divorce and separation, and other behavioral concerns.
Hello! My name is Samantha Boubel. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience helping children, teens, and families forge a safe place to move towards social and emotional health & wellness. I help children understand their thoughts, feelings, impulses, and needs. I help kiddos discover their strengths and grow in self-control and responsibility. I have experience in treating life changes, trauma, abuse, neglect, self-injurious behaviors, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, autism spectrum, developmental delays, school adjustment, divorce and separation, and other behavioral concerns.
(214) 346-6069 View (214) 346-6069
Photo of Elida Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Elida Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Life can be challenging and sometimes, these challenges can be overwhelming. My approach to therapy is first to create a safe space where a person can process their thoughts and feelings. I believe we all have strengths that have helped us cope throughout our lives. Sometimes, we just need a space where we can stop, reenergize and maybe even learn new skills.
Life can be challenging and sometimes, these challenges can be overwhelming. My approach to therapy is first to create a safe space where a person can process their thoughts and feelings. I believe we all have strengths that have helped us cope throughout our lives. Sometimes, we just need a space where we can stop, reenergize and maybe even learn new skills.
(832) 780-5802 View (832) 780-5802
Photo of Whitney M Herge, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Whitney M Herge
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
I help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of stressors, including mood and anxiety disorders, interpersonal challenges, behavioral challenges, acute and chronic medical conditions, trauma, as well as the process of transitioning from adolescence to early adulthood. I approach therapy as a component of health care, of which we are all deserving.
I help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of stressors, including mood and anxiety disorders, interpersonal challenges, behavioral challenges, acute and chronic medical conditions, trauma, as well as the process of transitioning from adolescence to early adulthood. I approach therapy as a component of health care, of which we are all deserving.
(972) 737-9502 x3 View (972) 737-9502 x3
Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.