Are you having trouble getting along with others? Does it seem like everyone is picking on you and that nobody understands you? The counselors in Laguna Beach understand. This may just be a mental health condition that can be treated by one of the devoted counselors in Laguna Beach. 

Living in a resort town like Laguna Beach should be amazing but if you cannot seem to get along with anyone, things are not going to be amazing for you. Talk to one of the licensed and experienced Laguna Beach therapists to see how you can start getting along with people again. 

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Randolph (Randy) Beasley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Counselor License Type(s): M.A., M.A. LMFT 120092
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoaching
5 years of experience

Hello! Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Randy Beasley I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist here in California. I have been providing psychotherapy and emotional growth services for a wide variety of issues within a number of roles for the past 10+ years. A little bit about me, I graduated with my Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from Biola University and completed a Masters Degree in Theology from Liberty University. I was pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Theology when I felt therapy was a better way for me to help people. I completed my Master of Arts Degree from Touro University in Marriage and Family Therapy. Previously I worked as a pastor and Christian camp director developing curriculum and teaching. I have experience working with addiction, foster services, wraparound, competency restoration, and couples/family therapy having worked within community-based clinics, substance use treatment facilities, a state hospital, and jail. I have received training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing adaptive practices, interpersonal therapy, The Gottman Method, as well as being a certified Mandt trainer (crisis intervention) and strength deployment inventory (motivational values psychometric) facilitator. I would describe my approach as goal-oriented and client-centered. I use solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and an existential therapy approach to foster awareness while developing pragmatic solutions to problems. Goals are developed together and focused on changing patterns of thinking or behaviors driven by unmet needs, when these change we frequently change how we feel. I believe healing hinges on the relationships you develop and progress ultimately follows an individual conquest of fear and acceptance of responsibility. I hope to make that journey with you.

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MAIDA FERRAES

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2017. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and parenting issues, teen concerns, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. In my work with clients, I use some leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I am enthusiastic, energetic, self-motivated, compassionate, and patient. I am a true believer that a good clinician should possess adequate knowledge relating to all areas in the field and should have good interpersonal skills. Also, one should have a stable mindset and should be a levelheaded personality, which will help in providing correct counseling. Each individual requires special attention with not just patience but a sense of understanding and compassion.

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Adam Whyte

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

My name is Adam Whyte, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the State of California. I currently hold a position as a Senior Clinical Social Worker at the VA (Veterans Affairs) working with Veterans. Since obtaining my MSW in 2001, I have continued to deepen my clinical skills as a counselor focusing on treating trauma, addition, depression, anxiety, confidence issues, wellness and health. I am experienced in providing support to people of a variety of ages, genders, cultures and sexual orientations. The techniques I have utilized to help individuals with their self-growth have included mindfulness, journal writing, recognizing supports, and developing inner strengths. I am well versed in many different therapeutic tools. In particular; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention and Strengths Based Therapy. I feel I can be an effective counselor to individuals who are striving to improve themselves and gain more self-fulfillment in life.

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Anika Garcia

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

"I couldn't heal because I couldn't admit that I was hurt." This is a statement that I personally relate to, and find that it speaks to many first time clients. If you are someone (like me) who values strength, resiliency and a positive attitude you too might be finding it hard to admit the emotional pain of past traumas and their impact upon your daily functioning and relationships. Trusted relationships are the foundation for achieving personal goals and experiencing lasting emotional healing. The client-therapist relationship provides the privacy, objectivity, and intimacy to safely uncover the deepest parts of our being. Together we can explore ways to be more connected to ourselves and others as we seek to live life to the fullest.

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Dr. Kathy Greathouse

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
8 years of experience

Dispell YOUR Myths around living well. My Sessions appeal to anyone seeking support for better mental, emotional and spiritual health. I pair traditional methods of therapeutic care with ancient yogic healing modalities to tailor a program of healing suited to your individual needs. Sessions may be composed with a unique blend of psychotherapy, meditation, sound therapy, yoga, and breathwork. I help people release trauma and negative emotions from the body and inspire them to aspire to their best selves. Generally, Providing effective physical, emotional, and informational support is what being a therapist means to me. I embrace intuitive, evidence-based therapeutic care to give consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect during life challenges, based on individual circumstances and preferences. People are so complex and their needs so unique, that the texture of my support, language and comfort measures are different with every person. My goal is that every client feels nurtured and supported on their path to healing.

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Sarah Tasker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Counselor License Type(s): MA Counseling Psychology
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsEating disordersParenting issuesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Life is full of challenges that can often leave you powerless, overwhelmed, and stuck. Living during a pandemic has greatly caused increased anxiety, and stress is at an all time high. If you or your family members are suffering, struggling to connect, experiencing trouble in finding stability or progress in your life, the process of therapy can help support your growth and self-esteem through these challenging times. I currently work in a school setting and work with elementary students, teens, adults and families. I work with individuals and families who experience anxiety, stress, difficult transitions, trauma or loss, friendship struggles, career changes, eating disorders, and relational stress - going through a separation or divorce. I feel it is important to encourage, inspire, and support individuals and families through person centered and collaborative therapy so that individuals can be the best version of themselves. I want to empower you so that you may be healthy, happy, and at peace at this point in your life. Life can be hard, but I believe you are capable of doing hard things.

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Nancy Lefler-Panela

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee and California with 3 years of direct professional clinical work experience. I have an additional 6 years of experience providing supervision for staff providing clinical support for children, youth and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Michelle Allee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping individuals with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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 and shame. I take a down to earth approach to our work together and see you as the expert on your own life. My role is to support you along your journey of personal development, and healing. 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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Tiffany Ung

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
13 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with more than 10 years of clinical experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with a wide range of clients from different ethnic backgrounds with concerns and emotional challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, ADHD, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes. My therapy style is warm, laid-back and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe that you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, Strength Based Focused, Narrative Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing Therapy. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Taking the first step is the hardest. If you are ready to take that step to make changes in your life, I am here to support and guide you in that process. I look forward to working with you!

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Camille Carter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Laguna Beach
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hello, My name is Camille Carter and I have been supporting and guiding others as a Clinician for 26 years. Seeking therapy is the best gift you can give to yourself and to those around you. Together we create goals, develop ways to better manage day to day life, relationships and stressors. Therapy is a journey towards healing, growing and creating a life with more peace, joy and contentment. I have both personal and professional experience with but not limited to Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Grief/Loss and Chronic Pain. I utilize a variety of treatment methods as therapy is not one size fits all. I invite you to take this next step towards feeling better and taking care of you!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Laguna Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach. 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 Laguna Beach, 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach, elsewhere in Orange, 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Laguna Beach, 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 92651 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 Laguna Beach counselor?

Before seeing your Laguna Beach 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. Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach, 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.

Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach, 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 Laguna Beach 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 Laguna Beach.

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

92651, 92652

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