Atwater was incorporated in 1922 and was named in honor of Marshall Atwater, who was a wheat farmer who allowed the railroad to use his land to build a train station to help make the city into what it is today. It started with a few hundred farmers and is now a booming metropolis of over 29 thousand people. 

With all these people in town, you would not expect to feel like you are alone. However, this feeling can happen to anyone as well as other feelings such as sadness, fatigue, and just feeling lost. These are signs of depression, which can be treated by one of the many devoted counselors in Atwater who are ready to help you today. 

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Tiffanie Turner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in the state of California. I have vast knowledge working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, phase of life, and/or relationship conflict issues. My clients range from students learning to navigate college to adults learning to navigate retirement. Wherever they are in their life, I always consider it a blessing to walk that road with them. My approach is to meet the client where he or she is and develop a safe space for sharing, exploring, and discovering one’s own truth. I mainly work from a Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral perspective. Considering that each individual is different, I tailor interventions to meet the specific need of the client. I believe the client is the expert of their own truth, and the therapist is the navigator to assist the client in discovering that truth. As the two embark upon this journey together, the client begins to break down barriers and open new doors to reaching their fullest potential. As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be on this journey with each client that grants me this permission. So let's begin the journey!

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Marie Svard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been licensed for almost 12 years but have worked in the field much longer. I have experience conducting individual, family and group therapy, both residential and in-patient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, teen specific concerns, and a wide range of challenges including trauma, abuse, mood disorders, adjustment issues, personal growth and crisis. One of the most important building blocks for growth in therapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. We all experience difficult times in our lives. Therapy offers a safe, honest and nonjudgemental space to gain insight into our experiences. It helps us identify problematic life patterns, and find constructive ways to move forward. My approach is different with every individual, depending on their specific needs. Our problems and feelings are unique and I want to approach my sessions as a team. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment goals that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. I mostly tend to draw from the client-centered approach when in a therapeutic relationship with my clients but also incorporate a solution-focused approach that incorporates a variety of psychodynamic and evidence-based therapies from cognitive behavioral therapy to faith based. Areas I can help you with: Relationship issues Codependency Depression Anxiety Disorders Dual Diagnosis Trauma Attachment Difficulties Grief and Loss Self-Esteem Body-Image Teens and Family Stress Difficulty Coping Excessive Shame or Guilt Searching for Meaning

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Meghan Perez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW Texas ,LCSW California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Texas as well as California. I have been working with patients with mental health diagnoses for a little over 10 years. I received my Bachelors and Master’s degree in Social Work with a specialty in Mental Health. From there, I obtained two years of supervised clinical mental health training to become a clinical practitioner, and here we are! I am proficient in working with clients who experience depression and anxiety, but who isn’t? Anyone who has those labels on their chest knows that there are large subsets of other disorders lying around. You and I can work on all of the above. You are in a safe place. Relationships, body dysmorphia, life changes- you have space for it all with me. I will not sell you anything nor promise that I am the best of the best. What I can give you is a solid heart and a safe place to heal. After all, you made it this far, what’s the harm in trying on some healing? My therapy style is direct, honest, and heartfelt. I expect you to show up for yourself. Respect and compassion for your pain are forefront. Also, the belief that a tiny step is worthy of celebration! If I am believing in you, I’m bringing you along with me on this journey. Clinically, I cannot say that I adhere to one modality. I pick at Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). I will use components of CBT, but I will NEVER throw a book your way and say finish it. I combine narrative style with motivational interviewing as well as a psychodynamic approach. Sure, let’s talk about mom and pop. I am following your lead here with a strong guiding hand. If you have read this far come on down and give me a try... See you soon. Meghan

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Kristina Gonzalez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I have provided psychotherapy services at domestic violence and sexual assault clinics, psychiatric hospitals, mobile crisis units for families and adults with neuro-developmental disorders, and with military Veterans of varying ages struggling with social, psychological, and physically disabling conditions. Areas of special interest for me include, but is not limited to: generational traumas and attachment patterns. My approach is eclectic, using Motivational Interviewing techniques to develop change behaviors, and will help you build on skills and strengths you already possess. I provide education on skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and utilize a Trauma Informed approach. Psychotherapy I provide is primarily based on Interpersonal and Narrative therapy models. You are the expert of your story and may already have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming events and experiences that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Pascale Dellefield

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
21 years of experience

I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2006. I have 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients on a spectrum that ranges from mindfulness, anxiety disorders, depression, grief and loss, compassion fatigue, to crisis management, homelessness, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and overall coping with life changes. I am heart centered with a warm approach and make every effort to help my clients reconnect with what matters most to them in their lives. I have experience working with clients who present as individuals, couples, children, teenagers, veterans, military families on deployment, older adults, LGBTqia, and or groups. I am open minded, have good values, and I am well versed in theology and spirituality. I have an understanding of the struggles of immigrants, and a deep respect for the need for multicultural and ethnic integration into our society. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. I speak English, French, Lebanese-Arabic, and some Spanish, however I only conduct therapy in English. I have traveled and lived in multiple countries. I have survived a war and know how to thrive and overcome trauma through Meditation and Mindfulness. I am trained in Mindfulness, Meditation, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have also found that reading and skill building homework can be very powerful resources to add to therapy. I am the author and illustrator of the book “Being With Heart: How to Thrive in Life With A Tender Heart.” I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Thank you for reaching out to me. I look forward to us working together in therapy.

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Mechelle Robinson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Te'Ha Demps

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of North Carolina with experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered, and narrative counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Maricela Nunez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & supporting and empowering you to break the barriers of past trauma. As a first generation Latina, I understand that healing generational trauma takes time and understanding, so I encourage the exploration of past experiences and cultural experiences to better understand ourselves and our history. It is important for me to create a space where people feel that their story matters and where they can find healing within themselves. I am passionate about helping people achieve personal growth and self awareness. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.

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Rachel Zioulas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Family conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Ericka Lara

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Atwater
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Atwater

Finding the best therapist close by in Atwater can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Atwater that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Atwater. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Atwater, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Atwater region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Atwater or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Atwater therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Atwater area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Atwater, elsewhere in Merced, or in the greater state of California. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Atwater area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Atwater therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Atwater due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Atwater may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Atwater online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Atwater, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Atwater psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Atwater above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Atwater provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Atwater?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Atwater therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Atwater therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Atwater therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 95301 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Atwater counselor?

Before seeing your Atwater therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Atwater therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Atwater licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Atwater counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Atwater, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Atwater has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Atwater, California

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Atwater therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Atwater.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Atwater:

95301

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