Photo of Mollie Birney Clinical Coaching in Los Angeles, CA
Mollie Birney Clinical Coaching
MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Clinical Life Coaching is life coaching with an eye towards mental health.
Whether we're struggling with crushing anxiety, disordered eating, self-destructive patterns, or are looking to get into (or out of) a relationship, this work is about liberation from the noise in our heads by transforming our relationship to it. Through a therapeutic lens, I work with clients to alchemize original wounds into assets, challenge cognitive distortions, identify core confusions and intervene unconscious, fear-based belief systems. No mind hacks, no mantras, just compassionate straight-talk that will demand your grit, your courage, and most likely a sense of humor.
Clinical Life Coaching is life coaching with an eye towards mental health.
Whether we're struggling with crushing anxiety, disordered eating, self-destructive patterns, or are looking to get into (or out of) a relationship, this work is about liberation from the noise in our heads by transforming our relationship to it. Through a therapeutic lens, I work with clients to alchemize original wounds into assets, challenge cognitive distortions, identify core confusions and intervene unconscious, fear-based belief systems. No mind hacks, no mantras, just compassionate straight-talk that will demand your grit, your courage, and most likely a sense of humor.
(424) 401-0373 View (424) 401-0373
Photo of Kristina Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Kristina Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90056  (Online Only)
We will collaborate to identify the root cause of your struggles and obstacles keeping you from becoming your best self and living a more fulfilled life.
So happy YOU are taking the first step to improving your life! Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Having relationship issues? Are you unhappy and unsure why? Ready to break unhealthy cycles? Or do you just need a safe place to process your thoughts and emotions? I work with individuals and couples experiencing stress, anxiety, postpartum, trauma, depression, family or relationship conflict, anger, communication, self-esteem issues, and cultural systemic oppression. I also provide Parenting Therapy to moms, dads, couples, and expecting parents.
We will collaborate to identify the root cause of your struggles and obstacles keeping you from becoming your best self and living a more fulfilled life.
So happy YOU are taking the first step to improving your life! Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Having relationship issues? Are you unhappy and unsure why? Ready to break unhealthy cycles? Or do you just need a safe place to process your thoughts and emotions? I work with individuals and couples experiencing stress, anxiety, postpartum, trauma, depression, family or relationship conflict, anger, communication, self-esteem issues, and cultural systemic oppression. I also provide Parenting Therapy to moms, dads, couples, and expecting parents.
(323) 918-3289 View (323) 918-3289
Photo of Uche Okolie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Uche Okolie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90017  (Online Only)
In my practice at Onetara Counseling, I unite cultural empathy with clinical expertise to support individuals grappling with identity stress, cultural transitions, and trauma. I help clients reconcile their multicultural narratives, enabling them to thrive authentically. Join me in crafting a path to wellness that honors your unique life story.
In my practice at Onetara Counseling, I unite cultural empathy with clinical expertise to support individuals grappling with identity stress, cultural transitions, and trauma. I help clients reconcile their multicultural narratives, enabling them to thrive authentically. Join me in crafting a path to wellness that honors your unique life story.
(818) 806-9851 View (818) 806-9851
Photo of Michelle Broehm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Broehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
If you don’t mind a few movie references, humor, and honesty, I welcome you to contact me for a free consult so we can explore your needs and you can start the process of living your best life.
Anxiety, depressive feelings, afraid of where the future may lead, or trying to figure out how to get over initial humps are common, but may also feel emotionally and physically draining. Therapy should be thoughtful, supportive, and provide a sense of safety for you to be yourself. This is the environment I look to create so that you can gain a deeper sense of self, and explore old thinking patterns and behaviors that may be preventing you from moving forward. I can offer a fresh perspective to help you re-frame those negative thoughts in a more productive direction.
If you don’t mind a few movie references, humor, and honesty, I welcome you to contact me for a free consult so we can explore your needs and you can start the process of living your best life.
Anxiety, depressive feelings, afraid of where the future may lead, or trying to figure out how to get over initial humps are common, but may also feel emotionally and physically draining. Therapy should be thoughtful, supportive, and provide a sense of safety for you to be yourself. This is the environment I look to create so that you can gain a deeper sense of self, and explore old thinking patterns and behaviors that may be preventing you from moving forward. I can offer a fresh perspective to help you re-frame those negative thoughts in a more productive direction.
(626) 314-6683 View (626) 314-6683
Photo of Jayne Goldman, Best Life Hypnotherapy in Los Angeles, CA
Jayne Goldman, Best Life Hypnotherapy
MBA, CHT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045
You will reframe events of your life through the safe lens of an objective observer, thereby acquiring insights and breakthroughs that are not otherwise possible.
As a Certified Hypnotherapist, NLP Coach and Time Line Therapy Practitioner, I believe that everyone has the answers they are seeking inside of themselves. I gently guide my clients in their self-discovery journey to create permanent, positive shifts in thinking at the subconscious level. I uniquely offer a 4-hour Power Breakthrough Session, employing a combination of proven Hypnotherapy and NLP Coaching techniques that enable you to surface and release years of emotional pain in a secure and relaxing environment. I invite you to reach out to set up a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation to discuss your specific needs.
You will reframe events of your life through the safe lens of an objective observer, thereby acquiring insights and breakthroughs that are not otherwise possible.
As a Certified Hypnotherapist, NLP Coach and Time Line Therapy Practitioner, I believe that everyone has the answers they are seeking inside of themselves. I gently guide my clients in their self-discovery journey to create permanent, positive shifts in thinking at the subconscious level. I uniquely offer a 4-hour Power Breakthrough Session, employing a combination of proven Hypnotherapy and NLP Coaching techniques that enable you to surface and release years of emotional pain in a secure and relaxing environment. I invite you to reach out to set up a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation to discuss your specific needs.
(310) 422-7828 View (310) 422-7828
Photo of Farah Pez, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Farah Pez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I guide clients to manage their problems, adopt healthy coping techniques, and establish a stronger sense of identity, all of which serve to support the client through difficult life changes.
As a Ph.D. clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with children, teens, and adults to help them overcome an array of clinical issues. While I specialize in identifying and managing psychological disorders, and performing evaluation and treatment programs, I help my clients manage issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and general relationship conflicts. In addition, with experience in private and public practice assessing clients from all areas of Los Angeles, my cross-cultural perspective allows me to build a trusting relationship with persons of diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
I guide clients to manage their problems, adopt healthy coping techniques, and establish a stronger sense of identity, all of which serve to support the client through difficult life changes.
As a Ph.D. clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with children, teens, and adults to help them overcome an array of clinical issues. While I specialize in identifying and managing psychological disorders, and performing evaluation and treatment programs, I help my clients manage issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and general relationship conflicts. In addition, with experience in private and public practice assessing clients from all areas of Los Angeles, my cross-cultural perspective allows me to build a trusting relationship with persons of diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
(424) 414-7332 View (424) 414-7332
Photo of Hava Bolour Rahimian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Hava Bolour Rahimian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hello and welcome! I look forward to meeting you and helping you gain insight into unhealthy relationship patterns, negative self talk and how that effects your mood and behavior, and tolerance for all of life's challenges. I have experience working with clients who are having difficulties with interpersonal relationships, families dealing with unhealthy boundaries, and individuals and couples seeking to deepen their relationships and strengthen communication skills. By no means is this an all inclusive list, so please do contact me so we can discuss what your needs are and how I can help.
Hello and welcome! I look forward to meeting you and helping you gain insight into unhealthy relationship patterns, negative self talk and how that effects your mood and behavior, and tolerance for all of life's challenges. I have experience working with clients who are having difficulties with interpersonal relationships, families dealing with unhealthy boundaries, and individuals and couples seeking to deepen their relationships and strengthen communication skills. By no means is this an all inclusive list, so please do contact me so we can discuss what your needs are and how I can help.
(310) 945-2867 View (310) 945-2867
Photo of Marlena Hunter in Los Angeles, CA
Marlena Hunter
MA, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Behavioral Therapy, Anger Management, and/or Executive Coaching is often the first form of treatment recommended for several unwanted symptoms.
Ms. Hunter works with teens & adult individuals who want to learn how to control their anger and temper. You will understand the behaviors, emotions, and ideas that contribute to your symptoms and how it affect your relationships with others or with yourself. My goal is to help the client reconstruct new ways of thinking, rebuild relationships, replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts and regain a sense of control. Ms. Hunter graduated from Argosy University with a Master of Arts degree in Psychology, specializing in Marriage Family Therapy, and University of California Riverside with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.
Behavioral Therapy, Anger Management, and/or Executive Coaching is often the first form of treatment recommended for several unwanted symptoms.
Ms. Hunter works with teens & adult individuals who want to learn how to control their anger and temper. You will understand the behaviors, emotions, and ideas that contribute to your symptoms and how it affect your relationships with others or with yourself. My goal is to help the client reconstruct new ways of thinking, rebuild relationships, replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts and regain a sense of control. Ms. Hunter graduated from Argosy University with a Master of Arts degree in Psychology, specializing in Marriage Family Therapy, and University of California Riverside with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.
(424) 484-7899 View (424) 484-7899
Photo of Eve Lorraine Sturges, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Eve Lorraine Sturges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Whether your struggle is deeply rooted or a temporary challenge, my role as a therapist is to create a safe space for exploring solutions and finding peace. It is possible to create a life you love with the life you have; let me help you. I also have personal and professional experience with the NPE (non-parent expected, or non paternal event) experience and am extremely comfortable, confident, and empathetic while treating those who have had shocking DNA discoveries. EMAIL IS BEST WAY TO INITIATE COMMUNICATION WITH ME! I am not taking on couples/marriage counseling at this time.
Whether your struggle is deeply rooted or a temporary challenge, my role as a therapist is to create a safe space for exploring solutions and finding peace. It is possible to create a life you love with the life you have; let me help you. I also have personal and professional experience with the NPE (non-parent expected, or non paternal event) experience and am extremely comfortable, confident, and empathetic while treating those who have had shocking DNA discoveries. EMAIL IS BEST WAY TO INITIATE COMMUNICATION WITH ME! I am not taking on couples/marriage counseling at this time.
(213) 693-3918 View (213) 693-3918
Photo of Michelle Hughes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Doctor of Holistic Life Coaching and Spiritual Counseling in private practice in Los Angeles, Ca.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Doctor of Holistic Life Coaching and Spiritual Counseling in private practice in Los Angeles, Ca.
(323) 274-1519 View (323) 274-1519
Photo of Nora R Ghodsian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Nora R Ghodsian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
The road to total WELLNESS and SELF-DISCOVERY is not smooth, but it is easier than living a life of misery that is not even yours.
How we live every moment of our personal and/or professional lives is a matter of CHOICE. Feeling shameful, fearful, anxious, unworthy, low in mood, bitter, snappy, moody, lonely; or working towards feeling and being lively, caring, friendly, free, assertive, productive and joyous. The work is hard, but easier than being stuck in misery. Artificial constraints weighs us down, dragging us into the dark places of hopelessness, helplessness, powerlessness, victimhood, and many other negative feelings and behaviors (anger, depression, meanness, worthlessness, isolation...) blocking our way to sense of wellbeing and JOY.
The road to total WELLNESS and SELF-DISCOVERY is not smooth, but it is easier than living a life of misery that is not even yours.
How we live every moment of our personal and/or professional lives is a matter of CHOICE. Feeling shameful, fearful, anxious, unworthy, low in mood, bitter, snappy, moody, lonely; or working towards feeling and being lively, caring, friendly, free, assertive, productive and joyous. The work is hard, but easier than being stuck in misery. Artificial constraints weighs us down, dragging us into the dark places of hopelessness, helplessness, powerlessness, victimhood, and many other negative feelings and behaviors (anger, depression, meanness, worthlessness, isolation...) blocking our way to sense of wellbeing and JOY.
(747) 279-4932 View (747) 279-4932
Photo of Alyson Pancer in Los Angeles, CA
Alyson Pancer
MSW, BSW, CYT, CHyp, Coach
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Inhale, exhale, repeat! Sounds easy, but it takes careful guidance and support to maintain. I'm here to help you build a SELF-CARE TOOLBOX to help you protect balance in your life. Life is a delicate balancing act – sometimes we need a little guidance and support to maintain it! I completely recognize that each person is unique and I ensure that every individual is empowered and feels comfortable and safe. As our coaching sessions progress, working with your goals is my primary focus. I find great meaning and purpose in working with populations of all ages, including children, adolescents, families, adults, couples and groups.
Inhale, exhale, repeat! Sounds easy, but it takes careful guidance and support to maintain. I'm here to help you build a SELF-CARE TOOLBOX to help you protect balance in your life. Life is a delicate balancing act – sometimes we need a little guidance and support to maintain it! I completely recognize that each person is unique and I ensure that every individual is empowered and feels comfortable and safe. As our coaching sessions progress, working with your goals is my primary focus. I find great meaning and purpose in working with populations of all ages, including children, adolescents, families, adults, couples and groups.
(818) 485-4229 View (818) 485-4229
Photo of The Mindful Mind in Los Angeles, CA
The Mindful Mind
MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90013
My traditional clients are looking to create positive change in their life. Regardless of age or ability; they may have behavioral, developmental or emotional issues that are interfering in their life. Clients that want to learn how to manage their life, reduce stress and increase productivity - moving through blocks from current and past issues, related to personal life, career, family, relationships etc….People that are looking for mindful approach to mental health and wellness, incorporating Expressive Healing Arts, Self-Empowerment and creative solutions.
My traditional clients are looking to create positive change in their life. Regardless of age or ability; they may have behavioral, developmental or emotional issues that are interfering in their life. Clients that want to learn how to manage their life, reduce stress and increase productivity - moving through blocks from current and past issues, related to personal life, career, family, relationships etc….People that are looking for mindful approach to mental health and wellness, incorporating Expressive Healing Arts, Self-Empowerment and creative solutions.
(213) 674-5779 View (213) 674-5779
Photo of Meridian Counseling: Individual & Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Meridian Counseling: Individual & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
(323) 214-3699 View (323) 214-3699
Photo of Alison Shlomi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alison Shlomi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Working together you will learn to identify your patterns, behaviors and emotions as well as practical tools so you can live life with greater ease and confidence.
Are you struggling with obsessive food thoughts, unbreakable food behaviors or body hate? Has an eating disorder or food struggle stolen your brain space, relationships, confidence and ability to function? I know how this feels. You are left physically exhausted, stuck in your self-loathing thoughts and defeated. I spent the last 10+ years specializing in working with eating disorders and supporting/educating family members because I believe no one should have to feel this way. Whether this is your first stop or you've been in treatment, I am glad you are here. One thing I know for sure, we are not meant to do this alone.
Working together you will learn to identify your patterns, behaviors and emotions as well as practical tools so you can live life with greater ease and confidence.
Are you struggling with obsessive food thoughts, unbreakable food behaviors or body hate? Has an eating disorder or food struggle stolen your brain space, relationships, confidence and ability to function? I know how this feels. You are left physically exhausted, stuck in your self-loathing thoughts and defeated. I spent the last 10+ years specializing in working with eating disorders and supporting/educating family members because I believe no one should have to feel this way. Whether this is your first stop or you've been in treatment, I am glad you are here. One thing I know for sure, we are not meant to do this alone.
(508) 315-6852 View (508) 315-6852
Photo of Pamela Modeste in Los Angeles, CA
Pamela Modeste
RDT, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90017
As wonderful as life can be, reaching your goals, coping with everyday issues, handling relationships, finding purpose, and staying inspired can be challenging. At times, embracing who you are and what you believe can be difficult. Even with your best efforts life can be stressful, and things don’t always go as planned. Connecting body and mind; using creative expression to destress, heal, dig deeper, and express what you are going though when words aren't enough, may be what you need to help guide you through challenges, make healthy decisions, feel better, and enjoy life. Would you like to understand the healing of your story?
As wonderful as life can be, reaching your goals, coping with everyday issues, handling relationships, finding purpose, and staying inspired can be challenging. At times, embracing who you are and what you believe can be difficult. Even with your best efforts life can be stressful, and things don’t always go as planned. Connecting body and mind; using creative expression to destress, heal, dig deeper, and express what you are going though when words aren't enough, may be what you need to help guide you through challenges, make healthy decisions, feel better, and enjoy life. Would you like to understand the healing of your story?
(424) 433-4871 View (424) 433-4871
Photo of Ellen Radha Katz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Ellen Radha Katz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90056  (Online Only)
Because I've been blessed with life-changing mentors in my life, I can pass the sum of their wisdom on to you, along with my own. Therapy is a healing process that happens through our shared connection and your expanding awareness. It requires a safe place, where truth is expressed and pain is transformed. Typically we meet suffering with distractions, intoxication or denial. When we find a way to experience emotional sobriety, our relationships with ourselves and others can heal. Loss, trauma, emotional intoxication and shame are common issues that breed secondary problems. We’ll approach them with skill, compassion and courage.
Because I've been blessed with life-changing mentors in my life, I can pass the sum of their wisdom on to you, along with my own. Therapy is a healing process that happens through our shared connection and your expanding awareness. It requires a safe place, where truth is expressed and pain is transformed. Typically we meet suffering with distractions, intoxication or denial. When we find a way to experience emotional sobriety, our relationships with ourselves and others can heal. Loss, trauma, emotional intoxication and shame are common issues that breed secondary problems. We’ll approach them with skill, compassion and courage.
(424) 353-2867 View (424) 353-2867
Photo of Bhavani Rose Walker, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Bhavani Rose Walker
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II, CCDS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I currently offer case management, coaching, crisis management, medication management and drug/alcohol monitoring, as well as in-home visits.
The individuals who I work with in private practice are often feeling stuck, or unsure of their next steps. They may be in need of healthy coping skills, and have difficulty regulating emotions. They may have trouble maintaining abstinence from alcohol and drugs, or other addictive behaviors. They also may simply need support around their activities of daily living. I have found that as human beings, we long to feel empowered to reach our full potential. My goal is always to help folks connect to their highest self in order to grow.
I currently offer case management, coaching, crisis management, medication management and drug/alcohol monitoring, as well as in-home visits.
The individuals who I work with in private practice are often feeling stuck, or unsure of their next steps. They may be in need of healthy coping skills, and have difficulty regulating emotions. They may have trouble maintaining abstinence from alcohol and drugs, or other addictive behaviors. They also may simply need support around their activities of daily living. I have found that as human beings, we long to feel empowered to reach our full potential. My goal is always to help folks connect to their highest self in order to grow.
(310) 668-1344 View (310) 668-1344
Photo of Clarita S. Wisnia, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Clarita S. Wisnia
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I believe childhood experiences create the template for adult life. Early losses, separations and trauma define the choices of strategies or defenses we use as adults. Pain and suffering can be caused by these early experiences. It is my job as a therapist to join my clients in their journey of discovery of these templates and help them to gain a more fulfilled life. I provide individual, couples and family counseling services in both English and Spanish in a safe, comfortable environment. My approach is tailored to each client, to meet them on their journey of discovery to finding a more fulfilled life.
I believe childhood experiences create the template for adult life. Early losses, separations and trauma define the choices of strategies or defenses we use as adults. Pain and suffering can be caused by these early experiences. It is my job as a therapist to join my clients in their journey of discovery of these templates and help them to gain a more fulfilled life. I provide individual, couples and family counseling services in both English and Spanish in a safe, comfortable environment. My approach is tailored to each client, to meet them on their journey of discovery to finding a more fulfilled life.
(818) 924-4804 View (818) 924-4804
Photo of Nasrin Barkhordari, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Nasrin Barkhordari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My specialties range from emotional and developmental issues in children and adolescents as well as parent coaching to helping couples and others in dyadic relationships.
The clients which I feel very adept at working with effectively could be presenting any number of issues that haunt couples, children, adolescents, and individuals. These concern developmental, emotional, relational, and social topics.
My specialties range from emotional and developmental issues in children and adolescents as well as parent coaching to helping couples and others in dyadic relationships.
The clients which I feel very adept at working with effectively could be presenting any number of issues that haunt couples, children, adolescents, and individuals. These concern developmental, emotional, relational, and social topics.
(818) 293-4808 View (818) 293-4808

Life Coaching Therapists

What can I expect from life coaching?

Clients and coaches will typically start by identifying the problem area(s) that the client hopes to address—then, the coach will help the client brainstorm potential solutions and explore concrete techniques to help the client attain their goals. Coaching is typically short-term and focused on finding solutions in the here and now, rather than exploring a client’s past. In addition to strategies aimed at the client’s specific concerns, coaches may encourage general stress management techniques such as meditation.

Can a life coach help treat anxiety?

Because the majority of life coaches are not licensed clinicians, they are not qualified to diagnose or treat anxiety. Anyone struggling with anxiety or another mental health condition should seek help from a licensed mental health practitioner. However, some coaching clients who struggle with subclinical anxiety report that working with their coach on other problems—such as career dissatisfaction or unhealthy habits—has a positive effect on their anxiety.

Can life coaching be done online?

Yes. While life coaching often happens in person, many coaches conduct sessions over the phone or via online platforms such as Zoom or Skype. Because life coaches are not subject to local licensing regulations in the same way that therapists are, they are able to see clients who live in other locations.

How long does life coaching last?

Life coaching tends to be a shorter-term process than therapy, though it does not always unfold over a specific period of time and is instead based on the coach’s or the client’s preferences. Coaching often takes place over three to 12 months but may be shorter or longer if necessary.