Women's Issues Therapists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Lotus Counseling & Consulting Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Lotus Counseling & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23223  (Online Only)
I enjoy assisting individuals in addressing stress management, self-care, relationship conflicts, trauma, family issues, school/academic issues and women's issues.
I'm Brittney Hill, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia. I offer individual therapy focused on addressing the individual needs of adolescents and adults. My experiences range from community-based services, school- based services, residential treatment and acute-inpatient treatment. My ideal clients are motivated for change and open to exploring and improving self-awareness.
I enjoy assisting individuals in addressing stress management, self-care, relationship conflicts, trauma, family issues, school/academic issues and women's issues.
I'm Brittney Hill, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia. I offer individual therapy focused on addressing the individual needs of adolescents and adults. My experiences range from community-based services, school- based services, residential treatment and acute-inpatient treatment. My ideal clients are motivated for change and open to exploring and improving self-awareness.
(804) 538-3154 View (804) 538-3154
Photo of Milov Sonnier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Milov Sonnier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I am Milov Sonnier a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in women's issues, trauma, PTSD, thought disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and more. I use integrative approaches to help my clients make progress and to begin to feel better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who are experiencing transition periods in their lives, and have traumatic memories that surface due to a current life stressor's.
I am Milov Sonnier a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in women's issues, trauma, PTSD, thought disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and more. I use integrative approaches to help my clients make progress and to begin to feel better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who are experiencing transition periods in their lives, and have traumatic memories that surface due to a current life stressor's.
(804) 596-4915 View (804) 596-4915
Photo of Felecia Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Felecia Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23284
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel stuck, unhappy or anxious, unsure about your decisions and unable to take action? Do you question who you are or the relationships around you? Do you need hope and healing? I can help. My intention is to understand your experience and work with you to develop a plan, addressing the issues you believe are important we establish what works. I have over 15 years experience in the behavioral health field working with adult, teens and families. I work one on one with individuals who are concerned about women's issues, stress, insecurities, anxiety/depression and relationships and couples addressing communication & conflict
Do you feel stuck, unhappy or anxious, unsure about your decisions and unable to take action? Do you question who you are or the relationships around you? Do you need hope and healing? I can help. My intention is to understand your experience and work with you to develop a plan, addressing the issues you believe are important we establish what works. I have over 15 years experience in the behavioral health field working with adult, teens and families. I work one on one with individuals who are concerned about women's issues, stress, insecurities, anxiety/depression and relationships and couples addressing communication & conflict
(804) 538-3779 View (804) 538-3779
Photo of Carrie Schaffer, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Carrie Schaffer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
Some of the concerns I help people deal with include depression, relationship issues, women's issues, sexuality, gender identity, loss/grief, negative feelings about oneself, life transitions, aging, and identity concerns (who am I; is this the life I really want to lead?).
I work with people who are struggling with a range of problems and wish to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behavior. I also work with people who are at a crossroads and want help thinking about the impact of a significant change on self and others. I am experienced working with people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as LGBTQ individuals and couples. I'm compassionate and non judgmental and tailor my work to each patient's needs. I received my PhD from Yale University and have worked in community clinics, hospitals and extensively with UVA students and faculty.
Some of the concerns I help people deal with include depression, relationship issues, women's issues, sexuality, gender identity, loss/grief, negative feelings about oneself, life transitions, aging, and identity concerns (who am I; is this the life I really want to lead?).
I work with people who are struggling with a range of problems and wish to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behavior. I also work with people who are at a crossroads and want help thinking about the impact of a significant change on self and others. I am experienced working with people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as LGBTQ individuals and couples. I'm compassionate and non judgmental and tailor my work to each patient's needs. I received my PhD from Yale University and have worked in community clinics, hospitals and extensively with UVA students and faculty.
(434) 214-4476 View (434) 214-4476
Photo of Marti Weiler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Marti Weiler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and women's issues.
You're tired and life is coming at you fast. You start to notice that you can no longer roll with the punches like you used to. At the very worst, you are sleep deprived, your anxiety is numbing, and you feel like a hot mess. Sometimes you don't recognize the person in the mirror. All the while you wish you could bounce back to your old self, someone who could power through the stresses of daily life without skipping a beat. I'm here to tell you it's not too late. Together we will envision the life you want, create a plan to get you there, and work through the roadblocks. If you're feeling overwhelmed and under pressure, let's talk.
I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and women's issues.
You're tired and life is coming at you fast. You start to notice that you can no longer roll with the punches like you used to. At the very worst, you are sleep deprived, your anxiety is numbing, and you feel like a hot mess. Sometimes you don't recognize the person in the mirror. All the while you wish you could bounce back to your old self, someone who could power through the stresses of daily life without skipping a beat. I'm here to tell you it's not too late. Together we will envision the life you want, create a plan to get you there, and work through the roadblocks. If you're feeling overwhelmed and under pressure, let's talk.
(516) 882-1644 View (516) 882-1644
Photo of Christine Buzitsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Christine Buzitsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I have twenty-five years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families to address relationship issues, anxiety, depression, women's issues, grief, ADHD, and life transitions.
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a therapist to partner with you on your therapy journey! Taking the first steps to change your life can be challenging and, at times, a bit scary. I can relate to and understand how taking those initial steps to start a new journey can be uncomfortable. I can relate to and understand how taking those initial steps to start a new journey can be uncomfortable.
I have twenty-five years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families to address relationship issues, anxiety, depression, women's issues, grief, ADHD, and life transitions.
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a therapist to partner with you on your therapy journey! Taking the first steps to change your life can be challenging and, at times, a bit scary. I can relate to and understand how taking those initial steps to start a new journey can be uncomfortable. I can relate to and understand how taking those initial steps to start a new journey can be uncomfortable.
(804) 203-9146 View (804) 203-9146
Photo of Gahan Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Gahan Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I offer focused, change-oriented therapy with particular emphasis upon: Women's issues, Assertiveness and Boundary Setting, Self-esteem Enhancement, Conscious Aging, LGBTQ Affirming Therapy, Sexuality and Relationships,Grief and Recovery.
I offer focused, change-oriented therapy with particular emphasis upon: Women's issues, Assertiveness and Boundary Setting, Self-esteem Enhancement, Conscious Aging, LGBTQ Affirming Therapy, Sexuality and Relationships,Grief and Recovery.
(804) 414-8945 View (804) 414-8945
Photo of Becky Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Becky Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
I also have experience in interpersonal violence, women's issues, and trauma-related disorders.
I believe that therapy can be useful to anyone and everyone, whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or have sought therapy in the past. There is always something to learn, unpack, or explore more in every phase of life that you enter. In my work, I strive to create a space that is non-judgmental and trauma-informed so that the person feels as safe and as comfortable as possible.
I also have experience in interpersonal violence, women's issues, and trauma-related disorders.
I believe that therapy can be useful to anyone and everyone, whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or have sought therapy in the past. There is always something to learn, unpack, or explore more in every phase of life that you enter. In my work, I strive to create a space that is non-judgmental and trauma-informed so that the person feels as safe and as comfortable as possible.
(804) 587-8397 View (804) 587-8397
Photo of Sarah Mines, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Sarah Mines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
(757) 347-8966 View (757) 347-8966
Photo of Marita Kershaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Marita Kershaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23219  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of diverse experience, and I continue evolving in new treatment models.
I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of diverse experience, and I continue evolving in new treatment models.
(240) 565-0482 View (240) 565-0482
Photo of Theodora Vance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Theodora Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, trauma and grief, stress management, women's issues, personality disorders and/or have criminal-justice involvement, let's talk.
Hey y'all! Welcome to Real Talk with Renae! We'll do more than just talk-we'll journey! As the creator and owner of Real Talk, I'm partnering with Grow Therapy to bring hope, healing and change. If you're here, it means you're ready, or at least, curious about making shifts in your life and I'm here for it! Let's face it. Life is downright messy at times!
If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, trauma and grief, stress management, women's issues, personality disorders and/or have criminal-justice involvement, let's talk.
Hey y'all! Welcome to Real Talk with Renae! We'll do more than just talk-we'll journey! As the creator and owner of Real Talk, I'm partnering with Grow Therapy to bring hope, healing and change. If you're here, it means you're ready, or at least, curious about making shifts in your life and I'm here for it! Let's face it. Life is downright messy at times!
(804) 293-3309 View (804) 293-3309
Photo of Rashell Gamble, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Rashell Gamble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Some of the areas I work in are: alcohol and drug use, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, gender identity, life transitions, relationship challenges, PTSD, trauma, men's and women's issues.
I understand that looking for, and finding, a therapist that you connect with, can feel overwhelming. Trying to manage the things that worry or challenge you can be pushed aside for countless reasons, yet when issues aren't addressed, they can affect every part of your life. Regardless of what led you to seek counseling, I will offer you support, practical feedback, and a little bit of humor, to help you resolve the current or long-standing concerns in your life. Whether you are struggling with a situation, relationship, or change in your life, we will navigate the path of growth and wellness together.
Some of the areas I work in are: alcohol and drug use, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, gender identity, life transitions, relationship challenges, PTSD, trauma, men's and women's issues.
I understand that looking for, and finding, a therapist that you connect with, can feel overwhelming. Trying to manage the things that worry or challenge you can be pushed aside for countless reasons, yet when issues aren't addressed, they can affect every part of your life. Regardless of what led you to seek counseling, I will offer you support, practical feedback, and a little bit of humor, to help you resolve the current or long-standing concerns in your life. Whether you are struggling with a situation, relationship, or change in your life, we will navigate the path of growth and wellness together.
(757) 260-3179 View (757) 260-3179
Photo of Alexis Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Alexis Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
Alexis holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. She specializes in providing personalized mental health services in VA and NC, with a focus on young adults, women's issues, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. As a birthworker/Doula herself, Alexis also offers support for other birthworkers, providing unique insights and assistance. She offers compassionate therapy for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs and experiences.
Alexis holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. She specializes in providing personalized mental health services in VA and NC, with a focus on young adults, women's issues, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. As a birthworker/Doula herself, Alexis also offers support for other birthworkers, providing unique insights and assistance. She offers compassionate therapy for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs and experiences.
(804) 251-2791 View (804) 251-2791
Photo of Nora Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Nora Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
My interests include anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational stress, and women's issues across the lifespan.
Life can come with unexpected challenges and feel overwhelming at times. Sometimes we need additional support as we navigate these complexities and discover our inner capabilities. I believe you are the expert in your own life - we will work together to gain insight into your struggles and move towards healing. Lasting emotional change is possible when we fully and authentically engage ourselves in this work.
My interests include anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational stress, and women's issues across the lifespan.
Life can come with unexpected challenges and feel overwhelming at times. Sometimes we need additional support as we navigate these complexities and discover our inner capabilities. I believe you are the expert in your own life - we will work together to gain insight into your struggles and move towards healing. Lasting emotional change is possible when we fully and authentically engage ourselves in this work.
(540) 802-4233 View (540) 802-4233
Photo of Giovonni Hinton, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Richmond, VA
Giovonni Hinton
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals through cultural identity challenges, life transitions, women's issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, religious traumas, and providing an affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals.
I'm an energetic, creative, intuitive social worker and life coach. I find joy in providing a sacred space that allows adults to connect, heal, and regulate their emotional and nervous system. With intention, dignity, and humor (when appropriate), I utilize a holistic approach to therapy that integrates mindfulness, sound healing, meditation, shadow work and cognitive behavioral therapy modalities. I'm on a mission to help you restore your faith, have hope for the future, and elevate. I invite you to mediate on Isaiah 40:31.
I have experience working with individuals through cultural identity challenges, life transitions, women's issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, religious traumas, and providing an affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals.
I'm an energetic, creative, intuitive social worker and life coach. I find joy in providing a sacred space that allows adults to connect, heal, and regulate their emotional and nervous system. With intention, dignity, and humor (when appropriate), I utilize a holistic approach to therapy that integrates mindfulness, sound healing, meditation, shadow work and cognitive behavioral therapy modalities. I'm on a mission to help you restore your faith, have hope for the future, and elevate. I invite you to mediate on Isaiah 40:31.
(804) 492-7697 View (804) 492-7697
Photo of Lisa Zaccanelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Lisa Zaccanelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236  (Online Only)
I believe each person has the innate ability and strength to heal and overcome past or current challenges causing psychological pain. I offer a safe and validating environment where we can explore and tap into these strengths to help you overcome barriers and find happiness and peace to live your best life. I work with adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, work stress, women's issues, and other emotion self-regulation challenges. I have a passion for helping individuals with binge eating and other emotional eating challenges and have helped dozens improve their relationship with food.
I believe each person has the innate ability and strength to heal and overcome past or current challenges causing psychological pain. I offer a safe and validating environment where we can explore and tap into these strengths to help you overcome barriers and find happiness and peace to live your best life. I work with adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, work stress, women's issues, and other emotion self-regulation challenges. I have a passion for helping individuals with binge eating and other emotional eating challenges and have helped dozens improve their relationship with food.
(804) 764-0535 View (804) 764-0535
Photo of Robin Zelinger-Casway, LCSW, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Robin Zelinger-Casway, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23238  (Online Only)
Specialties include: anxiety, panic attacks, depression, coping skills, women's issues, infertility/family building, communication skills building and life change.
Counseling can help to restore balance in our lives. With 40 years counseling experience, I specialize in working with individuals and couples. My practice offers a safe and confidential environment to address your needs. With virtual office hours to accommodate your schedule it affords you and your family the time necessary to work on goals, concerns, and strategies to enhance your life. Since COVID, our daily lives have changed dramatically, creating increased uncertainty and stress. We are all reassessing and developing what works best for ourselves. You and a trained therapist can help to create increased personal wellbeing.
Specialties include: anxiety, panic attacks, depression, coping skills, women's issues, infertility/family building, communication skills building and life change.
Counseling can help to restore balance in our lives. With 40 years counseling experience, I specialize in working with individuals and couples. My practice offers a safe and confidential environment to address your needs. With virtual office hours to accommodate your schedule it affords you and your family the time necessary to work on goals, concerns, and strategies to enhance your life. Since COVID, our daily lives have changed dramatically, creating increased uncertainty and stress. We are all reassessing and developing what works best for ourselves. You and a trained therapist can help to create increased personal wellbeing.
(804) 741-4549 View (804) 741-4549
Photo of Jacklyn McMillan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Jacklyn McMillan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
If you have felt the impact of life transitions including anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship and self-esteem issues, therapy can be a beautiful step towards a more fulfilling life. Therapy provides an opportunity to process and explore, in a judgement free space, in order to build upon strengths and identify areas ready for growth and change. As a therapist working in Virginia for well over a decade, I have provided services to both adolescents and adults, assisting with stressors associated with mental health, family and relationship dynamics, communication struggles, life stage changes, and women's issues.
If you have felt the impact of life transitions including anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship and self-esteem issues, therapy can be a beautiful step towards a more fulfilling life. Therapy provides an opportunity to process and explore, in a judgement free space, in order to build upon strengths and identify areas ready for growth and change. As a therapist working in Virginia for well over a decade, I have provided services to both adolescents and adults, assisting with stressors associated with mental health, family and relationship dynamics, communication struggles, life stage changes, and women's issues.
(703) 420-3831 View (703) 420-3831
Photo of Hayley Ruth Lambdin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Richmond, VA
Hayley Ruth Lambdin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
Anxiety, depression, severe stress, trauma, addiction, and other mental or emotional health struggles can prevent us from living our best, most fulfilling life. I am a firm believer in meeting a person where they are at when it comes to supporting them in their journey towards healing. Working collaboratively, we can heal old wounds and implement skills that can be effective, stabilizing, and healing. These skills can assist in improving your quality of life and better coping with life’s ongoing challenges.
Anxiety, depression, severe stress, trauma, addiction, and other mental or emotional health struggles can prevent us from living our best, most fulfilling life. I am a firm believer in meeting a person where they are at when it comes to supporting them in their journey towards healing. Working collaboratively, we can heal old wounds and implement skills that can be effective, stabilizing, and healing. These skills can assist in improving your quality of life and better coping with life’s ongoing challenges.
(804) 207-5791 View (804) 207-5791
Photo of Jessica Roane, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Jessica Roane
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
You may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood and feel like you lack support. You may constantly worry and wonder if you are making the right decisions in life. You may find yourself frustrated, easily angered and difficult to calm down. You may feel depressed and lack motivation and happiness. Does it feel like you have exhausted all coping strategies? Do you feel stagnant in progressing through life? Take charge of your emotional well-being by making the choice to get started. In taking this step, you are working to move onward and become your best self.
You may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood and feel like you lack support. You may constantly worry and wonder if you are making the right decisions in life. You may find yourself frustrated, easily angered and difficult to calm down. You may feel depressed and lack motivation and happiness. Does it feel like you have exhausted all coping strategies? Do you feel stagnant in progressing through life? Take charge of your emotional well-being by making the choice to get started. In taking this step, you are working to move onward and become your best self.
(804) 567-7125 View (804) 567-7125
Women's Issues Therapists

How do you encourage a woman to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express concern and love for the person while framing therapy as a tool for improving their life. Offering specific examples of how an individual may be suffering, and what effects it has on them, should be done with compassion and with empathy. It may be useful to devise a game plan—breaking the process down into parts, such as finding a therapist, making appointments, and looking into insurance coverage.

How can women prepare for therapy?

Women can prepare for therapy by being willing to talk about their past experiences and their private thoughts. Before a session, an individual may want to reflect on how they’ve felt since the last session and what’s happened in their lives. Between sessions, it can be useful to write down notes about their reaction to a given event or how they felt at a particular time.

How long does therapy for women’s issues often last?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual and the challenges they face. Therapy types like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Prolonged exposure therapy (PET), and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. In some cases, such as for women with eating disorders, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

How can women overcome stigma around specific challenges in order to seek therapy?

Women dealing with domestic abuse, sexual assault, eating disorders, and any other number of troubles may feel a stigma around seeking help. It’s important to remember that these issues are not uncommon and there is no shame in getting help for them. Therapy is confidential, and women can talk about their experiences without fear of judgment. Seeking therapy can be a courageous and liberating act, and an important step toward healing and recovery.