The City of Fort Bragg, California was established in the summer of 1857 by First Lieutenant Horatio G. Gibson who built a military post there about a mile and a half north of the Noyo River. It was named after the former commanding officer, Captain Braxton Bragg, who later became a General in the Confederate Army.

Whether you are in the military, are a lawyer, doctor, or a stay-at-home parent, anyone can be affected by a mental illness at any time. No matter who you are, there are many counselors and therapists in the Fort Bragg area who can help with whatever you need.

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Sonia Blue

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.,L.M.F.T.,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Change is possible and we DO get better! I have experienced this personally and have witnessed it again and again in my 30 years as a psychotherapist. I have been privileged to accompany countless individuals, couples and families on their journey to health and wholeness. Healing the past, relating to others with greater intimacy and authenticity, communicating more effectively and creating meaning as we grow and change are just some of the possibilities positive, compassionate and effective therapy can offer. If your problems could be solved by good advice alone, you would have figured them out long ago. Problems that are difficult confound your efforts to move forward leaving you stuck. Let's have a DIFFERENT KIND OF CONVERSATION one that moves you towards clarity, changes behaviors and results in your feeling and doing better. I provide a confidential environment for you to come as you are and discover the internal resources that you already possess. I offer the patience for you to work through the difficulties that constrict you and I'll give the wisdom, empathy and support you deserve for the willingness it takes to begin this journey. *If you have questions about the benefits of psychotherapy watch this short animated clip called "Psychotherapy" on Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/134193131

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Jennifer Haskett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.,MFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
5 years of experience

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing again expecting a different result. Do you tell yourself: “This time it will work. This time it will go my way”? Are you ready to try things differently? Are you ready to stop the insanity? Of course you are! You’re here. And that’s the first step. Let’s work together toward the next step..... A little about me: I’m a Marriage Family Therapist in California licensed since 2008. I’ve worked with various populations but mainly with youth and their families focusing on parenting skills, relationships, addictions, and trauma issues to name a few. Therapeutically, I draw upon different counseling modalities (such as cognitive behavioral techniques and Bowenian family systems) while addressing you, the client, as a whole being— not solely the presenting situation and/or problem. Personally, I’ve been married for 16 years and we have an eleven-year-old. We love camping and going to the beach when we can.

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Dr. Robin Avery

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

A mixture of hope and skepticism often accompanies seeing a new therapist. You wonder if this therapist can help bring an end to your suffering and confusion. You ask yourself if you will get the clarity you are searching for, closure to the grief you are experiencing, or find purpose and meaning in the life you are living. I bring to your sessions a blending of training in evidenced-based psychotherapy with over 30 Years of combined professional and personal experience to help you through your journey of self-discovery and healing. I provide the emotional support needed as you walk through the barriers of fear that prevent you from exploring your inner world and living a more liberated, balanced life. I walk alongside you in a caring, empathic therapist, as you uncover your seeds of suffering. I teach you skills to help you cope with what cannot be changed, and offer new ways to perceive and experience yourself and your reality that can be a wellspring of growth, positivity, and personal life enhancement. Treating the whole person, I place value on the lessons learned from all of life’s experiences. In addition to psychology, my wisdom draws from the gifts of the natural world, the cultural and performing arts, mindfulness, and my belief in empowering people to find their own unique gifts, talents, and wisdom to create more meaningful connections and purposeful living. I specialize in individual psychotherapy working with adults across the adult lifespan. Whether you are struggling with stress-related issues at home, work, or with relationships in general, feelings of loss and grief, caregiver fatigue, or feelings related to change and life-transitions, I utilize evidenced based approaches including CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and insight-oriented psychotherapies to help you increase self awareness, experience your own inner wisdom and clarity, and create a foundation for successful coping and handling life's uncertainties, healing, and greater life satisfaction.

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Vanessa Friedrich

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Vanessa and I am a bilingual Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker that was born and raised in California. I have 7 years of professional work experience in the field of mental health working with young children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with diverse populations and seek to empower clients by using a strengths based approach. I also incorporate a blend of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Reflective practice all while having a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive lens. I believe in the mind, body and soul connection and believe we can begin to heal by learning about and caring for our brain and nervous system. I hope to get to know you by going at your pace, providing a safe therapeutic space and transmitting positivity. I enjoy working collaboratively and hope to support you in your journey of achieving your goals.

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Shannan OConnor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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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Marissa Ruiz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. My name is Marissa Ruiz and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Some of my other titles include mother, wife, ex-wife sister, daughter, niece, grandmother and friend. Sharing these titles are important to me because they represent current relationships and past relationships. My past relationships include grief, trauma and growth. ​ Many of us our exposed or dealing with grief and loss but unable to talk about it. Sometimes we are in relationships that need help with communication or help with regulating our emotions. ​I had big losses of immediate members of my family in 2015-2016. I had a past toxic relationship. I survived all these obstacles in my life with the help of a therapist. ​ I believe in therapy and have worked with couples to overcome obstacles in communication and improve regulating their emotions. I have worked with clients who have faced loss and are grieving. In addition, clients who are dealing with depression. I believe I can work with you and support you in your difficult times and make a treatment suitable to your goals. Lastly most of my clients I have worked with includes impulsivity and anxiety.

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Jill Katell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Doreen Diego

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 25 years of professional work experience. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Robyn Engel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I'm licensed in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I'm honored to have supported countless clients (youth and adults, families and individuals) to better manage their stress and anxiety; to navigate the loneliness that often accompanies depression; to express and process grief and loss, abuse and related traumas, and various other challenges. We'll work as a team. You won't get trendy clinical jargon from me. I'm not up-to-speed on all of the current terms, nor do I find this necessary for true healing. I enjoy genuine, honest relationships focused on my clients' paths; you are the expert on yourself. I see myself as a mentor-coach-guiding force and objective professional. You'll also receive caring nudges from me, as needed, to enhance your sense of self-worth and improved mental wellness. Aiding my clients towards increased self-love and compassion is my ultimate goal. It takes courage to embark on this process to achieve the positive changes that you deserve. I hope to empower you on this journey.

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Kathleen Puleo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Fort Bragg
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
18 years of experience

As a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 18 years of professional experience, I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate life's challenges with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My extensive work has equipped me with the skills to support individuals facing stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, and anger management. I believe that each person is unique, and I take great care in tailoring our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your specific needs. My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment modalities, ensuring that you receive the most effective support. For clients presenting with stress and anxiety, I often help individual's identify and reframe negative thought patterns, as well as utilize Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) to cultivate a sense of calm and presence. When working on relationship issues, I help couples and individuals strengthen their emotional bonds and improve communication. For parenting challenges, I help client's foster healthy family dynamics and build stronger, more resilient relationships between parents and children. In addressing anger management, I integrate techniques to help clients develop healthier ways of expressing and managing their emotions. I believe in a collaborative process where we work together to achieve your goals and enhance your well-being. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can be an act of courage, and I am proud of you for beginning this journey. I am here to support you every step of the way, and I look forward to working together to create a path toward greater peace and fulfillment in your life.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Fort Bragg

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg. 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 Fort Bragg, 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg, elsewhere in Mendocino, 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Fort Bragg, 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 95437 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 Fort Bragg counselor?

Before seeing your Fort Bragg 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. Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg, 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.

Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg, California

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Fort Bragg 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 Fort Bragg.

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

95437

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