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Kristen Barrett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for considering working with me! My name is Kristen and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. I have had over 5 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including in-home, hospital, private office and running an outpatient day program for severe mental illness. I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), low-self esteem, depression, anger management, family conflict, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem. I also have experience working with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mild autism. I pride myself on creating an environment for my clients that is upbeat, positive and supportive. I love helping clients boost their self-esteem, and increase their quality of life. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my lifelong passion for helping others. I have always been the friend that people turned to for a listening ear or advice, so I took my natural gifts of emotional support and I went to school to sharpen my skills, learn proven techniques, and become a counselor. I understand that having mental health concerns can be difficult. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, which prevents many people from seeking help, so I work to show people that seeking assistance is healthy and should be the norm. The process for getting help can sometimes be overwhelming, and it can feel frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I feel that building rapport is the most important factor to successful counseling. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to share their stories, process their journey and gain the peace and achievements they seek. I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor treatment approaches to your needs while being sensitive to how your own personal cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Together we can work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. I look forward to speaking with you!

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Charlie Cummins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience

I'm Charlie Cummins - From personal and professional experience, I understand how destructive emotions affect relationships, health, and career decisions. I can help you learn skills to manage Depression, Anxiety and Anger. I have worked with thousands of clients and can help you change yourself, your relationships and your career. You’ll form a partnership with someone who has walked down the path with many others before. Our relationship will be collaborative and based on mutual respect. It’s not my place to judge you. Instead, we’ll focus on creating the changes you want to see in your life. Like many of those I help, you’ve probably been fighting a never-ending battle in your head or in life. If your fuse is short, your marriage or career is in crisis, your energy is in the dumps, or you want to change how you live, I can help. Why work with me? I’m dedicated to helping people learn tools to cope with Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Negative Emotions and relationships. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Psychologist who uses a results-focused approach. I have also served as an Executive Coach working with executives and professionals to develop their careers and leadership skills. If you need friendly, non-judgmental, confidential, insightful, highly personalized, as well as research-based guidance and wisdom from someone who has been there, please call 770-314-5174. I look forward to partnering with you.

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Brenda Atkinson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Counselor License Type(s): MSSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years’ experience. Much of my expertise is in working with individuals struggling with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, parenting concerns, blended families, substance abuse and career challenges. My most prolific area of expertise is assisting individuals who want to grow emotionally and spiritually through all of life transitions such as early adulthood, middle age and later life. My education was in Psychology and Social Work completed at the University of Louisville with an emphasis on Family Systems Theory. My approach in therapy is sensitive to individual needs and goals as well as structured in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic theories, mindfulness, humanistic and existential therapies. I believe that the individual and therapist relationship is foundational in that I strive to be genuine and compassionate to offer you the best opportunities for growth and healing. I admire your strength and courage for reaching out for assistance and hope to be a part of your growth and success!

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Marcel Payne

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
AddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I have been helping people identify and address a variety of problems for over a decade. For the problems that do not have solutions, I believe it is possible to learn to live with a problem by making changes in thoughts and actions. I tend to adopt a position that allows individuals to be the captain of their ships while helping to identify and overcome obstacles. 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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Laura Khan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LISW-CP,MSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Starting or re-starting therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming – it takes courage to look at how you’re feeling or what you’re going through and decide to reach out to a therapist who can walk with you through challenging emotions, relationship dynamics, life changes, and personal goals. Maybe you’re not quite sure where to start, but you know you would like to explore what you’re feeling, your identity, or ways to continue to grow. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, I seek to create a safe, respectful space to embrace this vulnerable work. I believe our identities are shaped by our thoughts, feelings, relationships, trauma (from acute to generational), and systemic factors that impact our wellbeing. We carry the weight of our past and messages we receive in the words and actions of others every day. I will be a therapist who helps you examine your experiences, thoughts, and feelings in the context of relationships and society to understand yourself as you are and as you want to become. It is normal when doing this inner work to feel sadness, shame, or fear. Together, we can identify diverse coping skills rooted in cognitive, behavioral, dialectical, and emotion-focused therapies as we encounter these emotions. My goal as your therapist is to be present for you, to help you feel seen, heard, and recognize your inherent dignity and self-worth. My clinical areas of specialty are depression, anxiety, healing from trauma, burnout, identity development, chronic illness, and communication skills. My therapy style is warm, empathetic, client-centered, and trauma informed. My approach as a therapist echoes Robert Frost when he said, “The best way out is always through.” In my spare time, I enjoy listening to true crime podcasts and a wide range of music, watercolor, crochet, reading, the outdoors, and learning to cook new recipes. It is a privilege to connect with you and start this meaningful work.

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Denise Black Winston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I hold a bachelor's degree in Social Work and a master’s degree in Professional Counseling with licensure as a professional counselor and have been certified as a National Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC) and Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider(BC-TMH) . I have over thirty years experience working in the Child Welfare Profession as a Social Worker in the states of Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Georgia where I worked extensively with children and their families before changing my career path in 2014 to become an LPC. I am licensed in Georgia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, and motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work with my consumers to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I strive to assist my consumers in empowering themselves and enhancing their emotional wellbeing.

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Tracy Kristalakis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Regina Holley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & coping with addictions. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Quencina Gardner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Searching for compassionate, professional mental health counseling? I am licensed in Georgia with 6 years of professional work experience. I offer personalized care for anxiety, depression, and more. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kristi Meade

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Thunderbolt
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have been fully licensed for 3 years now. I recently became a certified counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors in 1/2024. I have spent most of my career working in a crisis stabilization unit for MH and/or substance abuse. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Thunderbolt

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

Therapists in Thunderbolt, Georgia 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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt 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 GA, 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 31410 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 Thunderbolt counselor?

Before seeing your Thunderbolt 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. Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt, Georgia 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.

Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt, Georgia

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 Thunderbolt 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 Thunderbolt.

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

31404, 31410

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