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Megan Balcarczyk

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York, and earned my Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2012. I have a total of 6 years counseling experience during which I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, including those dealing with issues of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders. My counseling style is a combination of warm and empathetic, along with tactful honesty and accountability. I believe in mutual respect and compassion. I encourage my clients to be honest with me and if something is not working, to speak up and tell me. I believe in allowing my clients to take ownership of their therapy and gain skills in advocating for themselves. I also believe in understanding the human condition of imperfection and the idea that we all make mistakes. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, psycho-education, motivational interviewing, and humanistic treatment approaches. It takes a great amount of courage to ask for help. I know how healing it is to tell your story and to really begin to have an understanding of where our struggles originated. I also know the healing power of knowing that we have control and the ability to move forward and find solutions for our lives. My goal is to help empower you to improve what is working well for you and give you the tools to help change what is not working for you. I look forward to starting this new journey with you!

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Benita Wilson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
24 years of experience

My name is Benita Wilson and I have been a therapist for more than 20 years, successfully working with families, couples and individuals. I provide therapy for Traumatic Brain Injury, Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Anger, Stress Related Disorders, Relationship Counseling . My counseling style is client centered, open, engaging and supportive. I believe that it is important for everyone feel respected and safe to express themselves. My therapeutic interventions consist of cognitive behavioral therapy, rational -emotive therapy, solution-focused interventions. I look forward to working with you!

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Stacy Mason

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Putnam County, New York with more than 20 years in the field. I am the mom of two young adult sons with special needs and specialize in working with people and families with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have a deep understanding of how difficult it can be to raise a child with special needs, and with issues related to advocating for a special needs child with a school district or with other government entities. I am very holistic, and enjoy looking at alternatives to medication whenever possible. In addition to my specialty in ASD, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, substance abuse issues, and family issues. I have worked in Community Mental Health Centers, with incarcerated women, in a hospital detox unit, and in private practice. My counseling style is warm , supportive, positive and compassionate. I will help you to identify your strengths and find solutions to your problems. My approach is Client-Centered and Humanistic and employs Cognitive-Behavioral techniques. I really enjoy what I do! I am so glad that you are considering seeking therapy through BetterHelp and am so grateful that Teletherapy has become so widely available now, as it makes therapy so much more accessible for everyone. I look forward to meeting you and starting our journey together!

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Dr. Meredith Poster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
17 years of experience

Hi! My name is Dr. Meredith Poster and I am a Clinical Psychologist and the mother of three children, ages 14 to 20. I work with adolescents, adults and families using empirically-based integrative treatment modalities that incorporate psychodynamic, client-centered, mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques. I teach my clients the skills they need to live their best lives and be the best versions of themselves. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Tufts University in 1990. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, which is part of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Yeshiva University in New York. I received training in cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, educational, cognitive and projective testing techniques and neurobehavioral assessments with infants and children. I currently specialize in working with divorce, remarriage, blended families and parent education/counseling. I also specialize in working with issues related to health and chronic illness. I emphasize and create a warm, nonjudgemental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients, bringing my clinical experience, as well as my knowledge of life to assist clients in achieving their goals and improving the quality of their lives. I work collaboratively with clients to create individualized treatment plans that suit and work for them. I also combine empathy and validation with an emphasis on problem-solving and solution-focused strategies to help clients feel empowered to effectively address any issues they are facing. I am a great listener and very adept at working in a virtual online environment. Looking forward to speaking with you!

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Jeff Gagliardi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,DSW
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
7 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Jeff Gagliardi, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the areas of anxiety, depression, chronic illness and life coaching. I also have significant experience working with clients dealing with behavioral addiction such as gambling and technology use. I leverage my background in finance to counsel clients about financial issues, which often can negatively impact peoples' mental health. I have my Master's of Social Work and Doctorate of Social Work degrees from Southern Connecticut State University. I have been a clinician for six years after leaving a career in finance, and I’m incredibly grateful that I have the opportunity to help people overcome challenges in their lives. I recently began focusing on my private practice work full-time after leaving an intensive outpatient treatment facility where I worked with clients with a broad range of mental health diagnoses. My therapeutic approach involves using positive psychology, which focuses on developing a person’s strengths to allow them to create a greater sense of well-being. My goal is not just to help people survive life, but to help them thrive. Building a healthy counseling relationship is critical for the therapeutic process to be successful. I recognize that finding a counselor is an incredibly important and personal decision. If for any reason an individual does not connect with my approach, I will assist them with finding a therapist that is a better fit for them. I do everything I can to connect with people I work with and help them to feel comfortable and safe. I regularly ask for feedback on how clients feel counseling is progressing so I can make any adjustments that are necessary to improve the process. In our work together, we will determine the goals you are looking to achieve in therapy and establish a plan to achieve them. Every client is unique, and I tailor counseling interventions to each specific person. Most importantly, I will learn about you and support you while we go through this transformative process together. I am continually seeking out new approaches that can help people develop healthier coping strategies and habits, and I then relay these ideas to my clients. I applaud you for taking this step to improve your life and I hope that I can be a person to help guide you on your journey.

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Melissa Compton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in New York as an art therapist and mental health counselor with 4 years of professional work experience. I am IFS - informed. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Sara Gates

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 17 years of professional work experience. I specialize in trauma and am trained to provide trauma specific interventions and therapy. In addition to trauma I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, and family conflicts. My theoretical orientation includes cognitive-behavior therapy, trauma informed care and person-centered. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgement. I offer a complete open space to anyone no matter what background and I am here to support & empower you in your journey to healing and/or change. My professionalism centers around diversity which allows me to approach everyone with respect and dignity while recognizing our need for equality.

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Jennifer Kempner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,MEd
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hi, thank you for looking at my profile. I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years treating children, adults and couples in various settings. I have helped clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, LGBTQ, autism, stress, relationship issues, grief and just day-to-day concerns that may arise. I provide mostly a client centered approach to therapy but will tailor my treatment modality to the client’s needs. My goal is for clients to feel safe, respected and understood. My philosophy has always been to treat others as I would want to be treated. My sessions will start by discussing what brought you to therapy and then later together we will come up with a short term and long term goal to meet your needs. I look forward to working with you! Warmly, Jennifer Kempner, LCSW, MEd

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Anne Happel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with more than 11 years of experience in supporting and empowering individuals and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am empathetic and open; supportive and knowledgable. I will work alongside you in achieving your goals in therapy.

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Dr. Monique Holsey-Hyman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Speculator
Counselor License Type(s): EdD, MSW , LCSW- R
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am a licensed professional with over 25 years of experience in New York. I specialize in helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, and anger management. Additionally, I am passionate about working with young adults and college students, as I have over 18 years of experience in higher education. I strive to create a safe and open environment for my clients to share their thoughts and feelings without fearing judgment. Taking the first steps toward a more fulfilling and happier life can be challenging, but I am here to empower and support you throughout your journey. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I avoid using stigmatizing labels and instead tailor our dialog and treatment plan to your unique and specific needs. If you are ready to take that courageous first step towards a more fulfilling life, I look forward to working with you!"

How to find a therapist for counseling in Speculator

Finding the best therapist close by in Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator. 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 Speculator, 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 Speculator region and in the state of New York. 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator, elsewhere in Hamilton, or in the greater state of New York. 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator may not take health insurance, some in the state of New York 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 New York 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 Speculator online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Speculator, New York 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 NY, 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 12108 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 Speculator counselor?

Before seeing your Speculator 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. Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator 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 Speculator, New York 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.

Speculator 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 Speculator, New York

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 Speculator 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 Speculator.

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

12108, 12164

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