Sexual Abuse Therapists in Dorchester County, MD

Photo of Balanced Life Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Balanced Life Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MD 21613
We are a group practice with several experienced Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors who are available to meet your needs. Most of our staff have over 15 years of therapy experience with a wide array of specialties. We offer services to clients of all ages and take most insurances.
We are a group practice with several experienced Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors who are available to meet your needs. Most of our staff have over 15 years of therapy experience with a wide array of specialties. We offer services to clients of all ages and take most insurances.
(443) 979-8079 View (443) 979-8079
Photo of Janelle Beiler @ Lifemark, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Dorchester County, MD
Janelle Beiler @ Lifemark
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS, NCC, MCRSP, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MD 21613
Waitlist for new clients
LifeMark exists to serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups through counseling, vocational and educational services. We are mindful that everyone is different and are sensitive to the individual needs of each of our consumers. We consider it our privilege to assist individuals in moving forward to a better life. Our scope is broad, as we have therapists that have specific training to deal with most issues.
LifeMark exists to serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups through counseling, vocational and educational services. We are mindful that everyone is different and are sensitive to the individual needs of each of our consumers. We consider it our privilege to assist individuals in moving forward to a better life. Our scope is broad, as we have therapists that have specific training to deal with most issues.
(443) 991-7264 View (443) 991-7264
Photo of Katharine Petzold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Katharine Petzold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cambridge, MD 21613
Love each other better. All relationships go through harmony and disharmony. Healthy couples know how to repair. It is in this repair that couples develop deeper connection, intimacy and trust. Many of us are flying blind in our relationships. We never learned or saw what happens in healthy, cherishing relationships. Let me teach you. In relationship therapy, we identify the relational dynamic that is distressing and work to change it. I am only accepting couples/relationships for therapy at this time.
Love each other better. All relationships go through harmony and disharmony. Healthy couples know how to repair. It is in this repair that couples develop deeper connection, intimacy and trust. Many of us are flying blind in our relationships. We never learned or saw what happens in healthy, cherishing relationships. Let me teach you. In relationship therapy, we identify the relational dynamic that is distressing and work to change it. I am only accepting couples/relationships for therapy at this time.
(410) 770-2603 View (410) 770-2603
Photo of Dr. Christine Little, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dorchester County, MD
Dr. Christine Little
Pre-Licensed Professional, ADT
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MD 21613
When human beings experience various forms of traumas or extreme life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. What interest me into the mental health field initially, was that anxiety and depression was prevalent in my family. I wanted to understand and become more knowledgeable about the mental health issues my family suffered. It became my mission to help others moving forward, to recover from anxiety and depression. My desire became to help my clients not only recover from anxiety and depression, but to become the greatest version of theirselves.
When human beings experience various forms of traumas or extreme life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. What interest me into the mental health field initially, was that anxiety and depression was prevalent in my family. I wanted to understand and become more knowledgeable about the mental health issues my family suffered. It became my mission to help others moving forward, to recover from anxiety and depression. My desire became to help my clients not only recover from anxiety and depression, but to become the greatest version of theirselves.
(410) 914-1187 View (410) 914-1187
Photo of Stephanie Fuchs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Stephanie Fuchs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cambridge, MD 21613
There are times throughout our lives when we feel stuck. Wanting to move forward, out of the darkness and into the light but not knowing how to take that first step and often not having the energy to do so. Sometimes that feeling of being stuck or the heaviness that comes with it, just comes out of nowhere leaving us confused and frustrated. Other times it is because we are moving through some pretty big life changes and we start to doubt ourselves and our worth. You have everything you need within you to heal, to move forward, to start over, and to live the life you you have always dreamed of. Allow me to help lighten your load.
There are times throughout our lives when we feel stuck. Wanting to move forward, out of the darkness and into the light but not knowing how to take that first step and often not having the energy to do so. Sometimes that feeling of being stuck or the heaviness that comes with it, just comes out of nowhere leaving us confused and frustrated. Other times it is because we are moving through some pretty big life changes and we start to doubt ourselves and our worth. You have everything you need within you to heal, to move forward, to start over, and to live the life you you have always dreamed of. Allow me to help lighten your load.
(410) 936-4537 View (410) 936-4537

Online Therapists

Photo of Pinnacle Center, Mental Health Services in Dorchester County, MD
Pinnacle Center, Mental Health Services
MA, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602  (Online Only)
I treat trauma whose roots are through child abuse, war, violent assault on the mind and body, domestic violence, etc.
I am the right Mental Health Yoga Therapist for you if you continue to suffer with depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, grief, unhappiness and a sense of disconnection from the deeper sense of who you are. I will teach you how to feel better about your life with the skills of yoga: breath and meditation; calming your upset or sick body and quieting your constantly negative thoughts. Psychological and medical research support that Yoga, while an ancient philosophy, teaches easy to learn skills that improve physical, emotional and spiritual health. I can guide you to your heart's desire for your life.
I treat trauma whose roots are through child abuse, war, violent assault on the mind and body, domestic violence, etc.
I am the right Mental Health Yoga Therapist for you if you continue to suffer with depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, grief, unhappiness and a sense of disconnection from the deeper sense of who you are. I will teach you how to feel better about your life with the skills of yoga: breath and meditation; calming your upset or sick body and quieting your constantly negative thoughts. Psychological and medical research support that Yoga, while an ancient philosophy, teaches easy to learn skills that improve physical, emotional and spiritual health. I can guide you to your heart's desire for your life.
(240) 377-0328 View (240) 377-0328
Photo of Joey Mazzaferri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Joey Mazzaferri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
We sometimes feel overwhelmed, lost and alone. We can struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, sexual assault, imposter syndrome, trauma and grief or loss. At times we use negative/hurtful coping strategies and develop unhealthy behavior patterns. Fortunately, sometimes we realize we are stuck and need help. My office is a shame-free zone. I provide a warm, engaged, compassionate and safe space for you to address your concerns comfortably and openly. I practice culturally informed psychotherapy using a holistic approach and am committed to normalizing the need for and benefits of therapy.
We sometimes feel overwhelmed, lost and alone. We can struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, sexual assault, imposter syndrome, trauma and grief or loss. At times we use negative/hurtful coping strategies and develop unhealthy behavior patterns. Fortunately, sometimes we realize we are stuck and need help. My office is a shame-free zone. I provide a warm, engaged, compassionate and safe space for you to address your concerns comfortably and openly. I practice culturally informed psychotherapy using a holistic approach and am committed to normalizing the need for and benefits of therapy.
(240) 641-7931 View (240) 641-7931
Photo of Gavriella Mintz, Psychologist in Dorchester County, MD
Gavriella Mintz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Through a genuine, empathetic, energizing, and collaborative style, I help those struggling with anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and relational conflict.
It takes a great deal of strength and courage to try therapy. Turning to someone for help can be challenging and vulnerable so my job is to make this process as comfortable as possible. Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by anxiety? Are you trapped by memories of your past or weighed down by an inner critical voice? My holistic approach to therapy works with you to access your inner strengths and empowers you to live more fully, and enjoy what's right in front of you. I can help you expand the way you think, and see through a new brighter lens. I work with you to remove shame and judgement and embrace life's challenges.
Through a genuine, empathetic, energizing, and collaborative style, I help those struggling with anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and relational conflict.
It takes a great deal of strength and courage to try therapy. Turning to someone for help can be challenging and vulnerable so my job is to make this process as comfortable as possible. Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by anxiety? Are you trapped by memories of your past or weighed down by an inner critical voice? My holistic approach to therapy works with you to access your inner strengths and empowers you to live more fully, and enjoy what's right in front of you. I can help you expand the way you think, and see through a new brighter lens. I work with you to remove shame and judgement and embrace life's challenges.
(443) 912-5166 View (443) 912-5166
Photo of Darby L Burman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Darby L Burman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Lutherville, MD 21093
I have extensive training in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual abuse, focusing on adult survivors.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, family issues, the effects of trauma or life transitions, I can provide a safe and compassionate environment where we can work collaboratively toward your identified goals. We can work with your personnel strengths to create positive change. I utilize EMDR, cognitive behaviorial therapy, solution focused therapy, as well as mindfullness techniques.
I have extensive training in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual abuse, focusing on adult survivors.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, family issues, the effects of trauma or life transitions, I can provide a safe and compassionate environment where we can work collaboratively toward your identified goals. We can work with your personnel strengths to create positive change. I utilize EMDR, cognitive behaviorial therapy, solution focused therapy, as well as mindfullness techniques.
(410) 695-3714 View (410) 695-3714
Photo of Rise Hannah Page, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Dorchester County, MD
Rise Hannah Page
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, CCDC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Risé Hannah Page has an office in Downtown Rockville, Md. where we are meeting virtually, taking a walk and talk to the local park or meeting in the office and I have a satellite office in Boca Raton, Fl. for virtual appts. Only. I see adults for individual to concentrate on what is currently happening to you with issues ranging from: depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, alcoholism and addictions. I have experienced life challenges and made a decision to work with people who want to turn their lives around. I will not give up on you and I believe that anyone who wants to make changes can change.
Risé Hannah Page has an office in Downtown Rockville, Md. where we are meeting virtually, taking a walk and talk to the local park or meeting in the office and I have a satellite office in Boca Raton, Fl. for virtual appts. Only. I see adults for individual to concentrate on what is currently happening to you with issues ranging from: depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, alcoholism and addictions. I have experienced life challenges and made a decision to work with people who want to turn their lives around. I will not give up on you and I believe that anyone who wants to make changes can change.
(407) 505-5343 View (407) 505-5343
Photo of Nadell Asuru-Acey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Nadell Asuru-Acey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Elkridge, MD 21075  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families. Most of my experience has been with younger clients facing Domestic Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Family Conflict, Depression, and PTSD. I believe it is important for me to have a collaborative professional relationship with each client so that we can collectively meet the client's needs.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families. Most of my experience has been with younger clients facing Domestic Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Family Conflict, Depression, and PTSD. I believe it is important for me to have a collaborative professional relationship with each client so that we can collectively meet the client's needs.
(410) 403-3139 View (410) 403-3139
Photo of Ashlee Sapienza, Counselor in Dorchester County, MD
Ashlee Sapienza
Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
My background is in trauma, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, life changes, parenting struggles and relational challenges.
Welcome! Chances are, if you're coming to this page you're struggling with something. Making that first step to see a therapist takes a lot of courage and shows a ton of strength. It is my belief that we all need support and a safe place to process and grow. Creating that space and working with you to understand and grow through this time, is an honor for me. I love working with families, couples, individuals and adolescents and feel that one of my strengths is my ability to put you at ease and make the challenging process of therapy more comfortable for you.  
My background is in trauma, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, life changes, parenting struggles and relational challenges.
Welcome! Chances are, if you're coming to this page you're struggling with something. Making that first step to see a therapist takes a lot of courage and shows a ton of strength. It is my belief that we all need support and a safe place to process and grow. Creating that space and working with you to understand and grow through this time, is an honor for me. I love working with families, couples, individuals and adolescents and feel that one of my strengths is my ability to put you at ease and make the challenging process of therapy more comfortable for you.  
(410) 267-4268 View (410) 267-4268
Photo of Danielle Flores, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dorchester County, MD
Danielle Flores
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkridge, MD 21075  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adolescents, women and families. Most of my experience has been with Women’s Issues, Sexual Abuse Survivors, Trauma, Anxiety and Domestic Violence utilizing primarily a trauma-informed and solution-focused clinical perspective. I believe it is important for me to have a collaborative professional relationship with each client so that we can collectively meet the client's needs.
I enjoy working with adolescents, women and families. Most of my experience has been with Women’s Issues, Sexual Abuse Survivors, Trauma, Anxiety and Domestic Violence utilizing primarily a trauma-informed and solution-focused clinical perspective. I believe it is important for me to have a collaborative professional relationship with each client so that we can collectively meet the client's needs.
(410) 824-5197 View (410) 824-5197
Photo of Erin McConnell, Counselor in Dorchester County, MD
Erin McConnell
Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LCPC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include ADHD, Grief & Loss, Relationships, Self-esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault.
Are you craving change? Tired of letting fear and anxiety intrude on your life? Do you want to have more meaningful and authentic relationships? Counseling and therapy begins with a longing. Your longing might be for better relationships, more trust in yourself, less anxiety, feeling worthy and lovable, or feeling connected to your passion and purpose in life. I provide individual counseling for adults who are looking to create a future that is better than their past.
My specialties include ADHD, Grief & Loss, Relationships, Self-esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault.
Are you craving change? Tired of letting fear and anxiety intrude on your life? Do you want to have more meaningful and authentic relationships? Counseling and therapy begins with a longing. Your longing might be for better relationships, more trust in yourself, less anxiety, feeling worthy and lovable, or feeling connected to your passion and purpose in life. I provide individual counseling for adults who are looking to create a future that is better than their past.
(240) 696-4127 View (240) 696-4127
Photo of Sakina R Nesbit, Psychologist in Dorchester County, MD
Sakina R Nesbit
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774  (Online Only)
, bereavement, childhood sexual abuse, separation/divorce, career).
The clients I work with tend to be introspective, insightful, responsible, and intelligent and are capable of working through their life difficulties. This can be accomplished on a short-term or on a long-term basis. My clients "bring much to the table" but tend to undervalue their worth in one or more areas and may have low self-esteem/confidence. I have worked with very diverse racial and ethnic populations, including first- or second-generation immigrants from Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Canada. I have also worked extensively with many lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.
, bereavement, childhood sexual abuse, separation/divorce, career).
The clients I work with tend to be introspective, insightful, responsible, and intelligent and are capable of working through their life difficulties. This can be accomplished on a short-term or on a long-term basis. My clients "bring much to the table" but tend to undervalue their worth in one or more areas and may have low self-esteem/confidence. I have worked with very diverse racial and ethnic populations, including first- or second-generation immigrants from Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Canada. I have also worked extensively with many lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.
(240) 334-6462 View (240) 334-6462
Photo of Deborah L Horan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Deborah L Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with clients struggling with issues including depression, difficult life transitions, past sexual abuse or trauma, self esteem, and relationship issues.
Therapy is collaborative. I work closely with you to understand and explore the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and your behaviors because small changes in one area can lead to significant changes in other areas. Together we will identify and challenge unproductive thoughts and behaviors to bring about improved mood and a greater sense of well-being. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet your individual needs and help you achieve your goals. I provide support and practical help so you can address current life challenges and long-standing issues.
I work with clients struggling with issues including depression, difficult life transitions, past sexual abuse or trauma, self esteem, and relationship issues.
Therapy is collaborative. I work closely with you to understand and explore the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and your behaviors because small changes in one area can lead to significant changes in other areas. Together we will identify and challenge unproductive thoughts and behaviors to bring about improved mood and a greater sense of well-being. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet your individual needs and help you achieve your goals. I provide support and practical help so you can address current life challenges and long-standing issues.
(240) 813-3517 View (240) 813-3517
Photo of Meaghan Tarquinio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Meaghan Tarquinio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Trauma affects people in unique ways. It can present as depression, anger, hopelessness, anxiety or PTSD. There is no “right way” to respond to trauma. If your life is being negatively impacted by your experiences, you are worthy of the chance to heal and make strides towards wholeness and peace. I am a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for you. For over a decade, I have specialized in trauma with a focus on intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, and adverse childhood experiences.
Trauma affects people in unique ways. It can present as depression, anger, hopelessness, anxiety or PTSD. There is no “right way” to respond to trauma. If your life is being negatively impacted by your experiences, you are worthy of the chance to heal and make strides towards wholeness and peace. I am a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to helping individuals find their path to healing. I believe in the power of resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for you. For over a decade, I have specialized in trauma with a focus on intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, and adverse childhood experiences.
(240) 802-8962 View (240) 802-8962
Photo of Christa Carlton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Christa Carlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
(443) 785-2982 View (443) 785-2982
Photo of Kim Hudson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Dorchester County, MD
Kim Hudson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC, CSAT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. I specialize in working with those who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, pornography use, relationship and intimacy issues, codependency, enmeshment, infidelity, sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, disenfranchised or ambiguous grief, C-PTSD & PTSD.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. I specialize in working with those who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, pornography use, relationship and intimacy issues, codependency, enmeshment, infidelity, sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, disenfranchised or ambiguous grief, C-PTSD & PTSD.
(410) 927-1366 View (410) 927-1366
Photo of Vicki Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dorchester County, MD
Vicki Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783  (Online Only)
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
(301) 684-8194 View (301) 684-8194

See more therapy options for Dorchester County

Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.