If you’re looking for a therapist in Gainesville, FL, you can find many independent practices that offer in-person treatment or use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Although BetterHelp does not offer play therapy or other services for children, the providers on the platform provide exceptional counseling for adults of all ages.

A professional in the mental health field can guide you through the therapeutic process to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. You can get support for the symptoms of a mental health condition like depression or anxiety or to work through challenging life experiences like domestic violence, low self-esteem, sexual assault, or sexuality issues.

Work with a counselor who cares deeply and can offer new perspectives for self-discovery. Get started with a Gainesville-based therapist below.

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Edith Lewis-Allen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hi there! I am mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 5 years of experience working as therapist. I have experience working in various levels of care including residential treatment, outpatient and psychiatric inpatient. I have experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns such as substance abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, relationship issues, life stressors, interpersonal issues, anger and legal issues. My counseling style is relaxed, empathetic and nonjudgmental. I believe the relationship/rapport with my client is the most important factor in determining how effective I am in providing care and achieving the desired outcome of my client. My therapeutic style is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy and person centered therapy, however, I believe in utilizing a variety of treatment modalities to best meet my client needs. I believe in adapting my style to meet the client where they are at in their journey of self-improvement. I look forward to helping yo u!

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Dr. Natalie Gutierrez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am a Health Medical Psychologist, with over 25 years of experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including behavioral weight loss, eating disorders, behavioral approaches to resolving, preventing and adjusting to medical diagnoses such as autoimmune disease, cardiac rehab and cancer, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and life transitions. I also work with clients on behavioral weight loss and disease prevention, by creating healthier patterns and lifestyle. 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, humanistic and psychodynamic treatment. 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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Shantizia Figgs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Parenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a two-time graduate of the Florida State University, receiving a Bachelor’s and Masters of Social Work degree, licensed as a clinical social worker in the state of Florida. I have over 7 years of experience in individual counseling, individual therapy, and family therapy. I have worked with adolescent and adult clients. I have been able to adequately assist clients with conquering depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, communication issues, and relationship problems. My counseling approach is unique to each client and catered towards ensuring the best services are provided to each individual client. My counseling styes reflect in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques. The clients’ services will be individualized to each clients’ individual needs to ensure they are met. Congratulations on taking the first step to getting help. If you are ready to embark on the journey to a brighter future, I am here to support you along the way. I look forward to working with you in the future.

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Dr. Shawyna Murray

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida and I have worked in the field providing client focused therapy to clients of all ages and stages in life. I am a graduate of Nova Southeastern University and I came to the field because I enjoy hearing stories, and the opportunity to help others create new life stories. My goal is always to offer a safe space to process and work through the various challenges that life presents. In that safe space, it is my sincere honor to listen to your needs and concerns and partner with you to create a plan to help you meet those challenges as they come, judgement free. I also work with couples and families, helping to positively change relational and communication patterns. I also enjoy working with families with members living with Alzheimer's disease, or other Dementias, Cancer and other chronic illnesses, to help them navigate the anxiety and to prepare for the journey these illness' can take them on. Whatever side of this experience you find yourself on, I would like to be there to help.

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Beverly Knighten

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Beverly Knighten, I am a professional counselor currently licensed in Oklahoma with over 12 years of experience working as a LCSW in multiple settings, and states. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addiction and SMI. Most of my career has been working with the military in various occupations and settings. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is eclectic, compassionate and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, and in a non-judgement approach. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, talk therapy, person-centered and solution focused 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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Sara Matos

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Trauma and abuseCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

With over 4 years of experience in the Social Service field, I pride myself on my dedication to the safety, wellbeing and stabilization of the children, adults, and families that I works with. My creativity allows me to utilize a series of treatment modalities to assist in successfully empowering my clients while meeting their psychological needs. My approach is non-judgmental, client-focused and strength-based which encourages my clients to freely engage in the planning and goal identification of their own treatment. A few modalities that I specializes in are: Psycho-Educational, EMDR, Play, Sand Tray, Accelerated Resolution, Solution Focused, Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I often incorporates the Stages of Change in my treatment in efforts to meet my clients, “where they are at”. I have earned a Master’s degree in Social Work and one in Public Administration. As a serious student, I've maintained a 3.97 GPA in both programs. In addition, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Qualified Supervisor and Substance Abuse Professional. I have provided services to many different populations and have embraced my time and experiences as learning opportunities and growth. I have worked in Child Protection, Program and Youth Development; along with Individual, family, Couples and Group Therapy. I have created curriculums and written proposals to establish and maintain well needed Independent Living Skills programs for adolescents that were aging out of foster care. I understand that although the typical social service organizations are closed during the evening and weekend hours, this does not mean that our clients are not in need of services. Therefore, I am often willing and able to meet with my clients during these times.

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Dianne Gadishaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. 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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Richard Long

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
LGBTRelationship issues
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Georgia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues & relationship issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Amber Kovach

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

** Effective as of July 28th, I am ONLY offering live chatting/messaging for sessions. No video or phone appointments will be scheduled after September 8th of 2024 (including for previous clients assigned to me). Hi, my name is Amber and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor for Florida and Maryland who obtained a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. I am focused on improving the overall well-being and mental health of my clients through evidence-based practices. I have hands-on experience with individual, couples, family, and group therapy for numerous diagnoses including mental health and substance use disorders. I try my best to stay on top of demands in fast-paced environments by keeping up-to-date with training on topics such as suicide prevention and crisis management as well as other crucial therapeutic interventions. I am reliable and ready to take on challenges using problem-solving and task-prioritization skills to help clients become better versions of themselves. A therapeutic safe space is what is strived for in every therapy session. I have previous experience working from ages 5 to 95, but do best with children, teenagers, and young adult needs. My niche includes emotional management, stress management, child-centered play therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, neurodivergence, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. If it sounds like we will be a good fit, please reach out as I would love to help you on your therapeutic journey! ** Please contact me directly to schedule an appointment. I have specific times that work best for live chatting (usually between the hours of 8 am to 9 pm). I accept first come first serve; therefore my availability week to week may vary. Communicating directly with me for scheduling is ideal so that I can also accommodate as much as possible to your availability. Thanks! -Amber

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Christopher Cleveland Merritt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Gainesville
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Gainesville

Finding the best therapist close by in Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville. 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 Gainesville, 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 Gainesville region and in the state of Florida. 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville, elsewhere in Alachua, or in the greater state of Florida. 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida 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 Florida 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 Gainesville online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Gainesville, Florida 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 FL, 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 32602 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 Gainesville counselor?

Before seeing your Gainesville 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. Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville, Florida 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.

Gainesville 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 Gainesville, Florida

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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville.

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

32601, 32602, 32603, 32604, 32605, 32607, 32608, 32609, 32610, 32611, 32612, 32614, 32627, 32635, 32653

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