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Jonna Phelps

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

I graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago with a M.A. in Clinical Psychology. I received my LCPC in 2001. I am also a Certified Care Manager with the National Academy of Care Managers. I have focused my attention on treating adults with anxiety and depression. I believe in learning coping skills and positive communication to deal with significant life events. The goal of treatment is validation through re-focusing on individual strengths in order to improve overall quality of life. . “Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ― Shannon L. Alder How can I help?

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Rolanda Parks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona. I am best positioned to serve adults seeking support for various mental health concerns. My expertise lies in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. I work effectively with individuals navigating relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and those striving for personal growth. Whether you're seeking short-term solutions or long-term exploration, my client-centered approach is suited for those committed to positive change and self-discovery.

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Nicole Bowker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Counselor License Type(s): M.S.Ed,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Nicole Bowker, M.S.Ed, LPC, NCC Nicole is a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma informed counseling for adolescents and adults. Tailoring her therapy to the unique needs of her client, Nicole can provide a collaborative, holistic approach to help clients achieve their desired goals. Nicole believes in the power of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone; by starting the therapeutic journey, a first step in a new direction has been started. She works with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and other issues interfering with daily life. Nicole is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to provide an alternative treatment modality to her clients. Nicole utilizes CBT, DBT, and trauma informed methods to best serve her clients and their needs.

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Dr. Jerome Anderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Counselor License Type(s): DSW,LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
24 years of experience

I am Dr. Jerome Anderson, an advanced-practice clinical professional offering a wide range of clinical services. I am licensed as a clinical social worker (LCSW), nationally board certified as an advanced practice clinical social worker (BCD), certified as a clinical forensic social worker/psychotherapist (CCFC), and certified as a correctional health care professional (CCHP). As such, I provide services focused on severe and persistent mental health concerns as well as mild mental health conditions, such as professional counseling, psychotherapy, and consulting services for clinical assistance in mental health symptom management, behavioral redirection, life-style adjustment, and crisis abatement. All therapeutic approaches are scientific & evidence based. The treatment modalities utilized but not limited to are cognitive-behavioral principles and strengths-based theory. I am licensed to provide these services in the states of Missouri and Illinois. Most recently, I worked as a clinical psychotherapist, Behavioral Health Consultant, and Flight Commander of Behavioral Health Services for the United States Department of the Air Force. I also have a history of working as a criminal justice clinician and director of the mental health departments within large metropolitan jails and correctional facilities. I have also worked in maximum-security prisons as a forensic clinician. In all capacities, I have experience evaluating, diagnosing, and developing appropriate treatment goals. I also have experiences working with the judicial systems where I have developed and implemented recommendations based on patient competency levels as well as led the therapeutic treatment process. Along with this experience, I have worked as a full-time law enforcement officer. Lastly, I am an Active Duty Commissioned Officer (Lieutenant Commander) in the United States Public Health Services Commissioned Corp (USPHS-CC) where I operate as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) and Coordinator for Employee Relations/Officer Advocacy for USPHS. I look forward to working with you!!

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Melissa Filippi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
28 years of experience

I am an experienced Social Worker with an LCSW and have worked in agencies and private practice and public schools during my career. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional which is helpful when working with people managing anxiety and mood disorders. Integrative Health is about looking at lifestyle factors and blends conventional and complementary modalities to best address symptoms. When we work together, my goal is to help you figure out how to improve all areas of your life, but of course, address the goal that you want to work on. You should know that I often assign think-sheets or homework between sessions which we will discuss later. This helps keep you moving toward your goals and practicing the skills learned during our sessions. More about my training- I was formerly an Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) but have broadened my practice to work with clients with a variety of issues but that is also an expertise you may want to know about. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago Jane Addams School of Social Work. I continually work to grow and improve my practice by researching, finding and providing effective supports and using the most current, best-practices in the field. Using a strengths-based approach with Cognitive Behavior Theory, Person-Centered counseling approaches and the integration of other approaches, such as Solution Focused Therapy, I work with you to find more positive, effective social and coping skills, in order to see improvements in relationships I specialize in working with those who have difficulty with self-esteem, depression, trauma, anxiety, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and making lasting changes in life. Further, I have extensive experience working with those who have experienced trauma to help them to learn distress tolerance, emotion regulation and how to incorporate mindfulness and other coping strategies in order to manage your relationships and functioning in life in a healthier way. My focus is on the well-being of my clients, and will work with you to set goals to improve your life functioning. I am told that I am warm and approachable and easy to talk to. I would I love to work with you to improve your life!

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Christopher Fox

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 24 years of professional work experience as a psychotherapist and social worker. Over this period of time, I have worked with hundreds of people with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, coping with life changes, and caregiver stress/burnout to name a few. My past clients have appreciated my down-to-earth, compassionate personal style. I use a cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approach to help you identify thoughts and behaviors that are harmful to your emotional well being and work with you to set clear goals for how to change them so you can feel better. I believe that you have many strengths that can assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Jennifer Vandivort

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Illinois. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, medical and private case management. While in those settings, I have worked with clients who were experiencing a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety and panic disorders, substance abuse, physical and emotional abuse, domestic violence, families navigating difficult dynamics within the home, parental concerns re: to children who are diagnosed with emotional or behavioral issues, to families coping with aging parents and medical decisions. My approach to therapy is to work specifically with you to determine a treatment plan that best fits your unique needs and situation. It is a huge step to start this process and my hope for you is to find a safe and caring environment that supports you on your wellness journey. I look forward to meeting you!

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Michael Dubose

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Mind over mood. I believe that everyone can change & grow at any time in their lives. I don't believe that there is a limit to human capacity. Together we will work to regain a sense of normalcy in the lives of those who I serve. 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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Portia Adams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and New York with 15 years of professional work experience. My pronouns are she/her/hers and I have expertise in working with Black communities. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Lisa Leong

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IL, Bridgeport
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello! I am a trained clinical social worker with 16 years of experience. My experience is in major hospital systems in New York City, Houston, and New Jersey and the past three years specifically servicing BetterHelp subscribers. Most of my experience involves bringing tranquility, organization, and resolution to very complex and emotional situations. I utilize cultural sensitivity and my experience to navigate diverse backgrounds and work through the challenges being faced. In my work, I have been involved during times of stress and anxiety, challenging relationships, life changes, and many more. My goal is to listen to what is causing stress and offer the support needed to overcome it or manage it better. I hope to offer some tools to utilize in navigating these challenging situations for a more optimal outcome. I have traveled to various cities such as Bangkok, Paris, Madrid, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Cancun, Caribbean, London, Amsterdam, San Diego, Chicago, Oklahoma City, Memphis, Orlando, San Francisco, Montreal, Calgary, Banff, Edmonton, and more. During my travels, I mainly focus on learning about the culture and understanding the history of the area and its people. My passion is to help and coach people to be their best selves!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Bridgeport

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

Therapists in Bridgeport, Illinois 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 IL, 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 62417 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 Bridgeport counselor?

Before seeing your Bridgeport 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. Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, Illinois 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.

Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, Illinois

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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport.

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

62417

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