College towns are great for young people to grow into better people. But sometimes they need a little bit of help from a counselor. Luckily, a counselor in State college is ready to help you understand, and better yourself.

It’s the third-safest metropolitan area in the US, meaning that’s it’s a safe location for those young and old.  It was originally a town, but it grows to help those that were at Penn State.  It is known for the university in the area, but even if you aren't here just to study, having a counselor here will help you feel safe and secure no matter the odds. 

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Stacey Luczejko

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): Licensed Professional Counselor
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
13 years of experience

Hi, my names is Stacey Luczejko and I am a Pennsylvania Licensed Counselor. I attended Pennsylvania State University for my Bachelor's degree in Psychological & Social Sciences. I attended Rider University for both of my Master's degrees for Counseling and Educational Specialist (in counseling services). I have been counseling for the past 13 years in various capacities ranging from counseling in schools to counseling in the community. My counseling style is eclectic because I utilize many different therapeutic strategies based off of the needs of the individuals I am working with during the session. Some of my counseling theory styles consists of: cognitive, behavioral, person-centered, reality, solution-focused, and psycho-education components. In other words, I have many ways for helping individuals to deal with their struggles or with whatever is challenging them. My approach focuses on thought processes, behaviors, and action plans. I also find ways to creatively use your interests (such as: music, hobbies, movies, and etc.) in the solution process. Most importantly, during every counseling session I strive for my clients to take away something new or something that can be utilized outside of counseling in everyday life. You are not alone, I look forward to the opportunity to help you with your concerns, difficulties, or situation.

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Brittany Fleischer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): MAEd. LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have been providing counseling services for 11 years in both face to face and virtual platforms. During my time I have been able to assist many individuals struggling with a wide variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, severe and persistent mental health symptoms, relational and family concerns, and substance abuse issues. My approach to counseling in each and every session is one that is focused on meeting the individual where they are. I am focused on making this process warm and comforting for you as I understand that the concerns being brought to the sessions are ones causing great discomfort. The theoretical approaches I utilize are Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy. Again, all of this is just saying that together we will begin processing through the concerns being presented and identify ways in which you can begin working through them. I understand that it takes a great deal of courage for one to reach out and ask for help and I commend you on taking this step. I am so blessed that you are choosing to allow me to be apart of this journey with you and am looking forward to meeting you. At this time I am able to provide services via the chat sessions, phone sessions and messages. I respond in the chat Tuesday through Saturday checking in several times per day.

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Paulette Chobot

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): MS, NCC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
30 years of experience

Hi, My name is Paulette Chobot. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I have thirty years of experience in the behavioral health field. I specialize in individual, group, and family therapy. My approach to therapy is from humanistic experience. Each person has their own life experience and has a right to live life in their own way. My goal is to gently assist moving through any emotional discomfort to healing and change. We will work together to navigate the challenges or obstacles that may be in your way to healing and change. I will be fully present while each step is taken with purpose and intent towards healing. My therapeutic experience is diverse. I have had the opportunity and pleasure to work with many different populations over the years. For 30 years, I have worked with children and teens with emotional and behavioral disturbances, autism, as well as those diagnosed with mental illnesses. For 25 years, I have worked with adults overcoming drug and/or alcohol addiction, victims of domestic violence, and adults with diagnosed mental illness. For 10 years, I have performed executive and professional coaching. I look forward to working with you to navigate whatever difficulties you are facing at this time.

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Jamie Kovacs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

"If we wait until we are ready, we may be waiting for the rest of our lives." -- Unknown I am licensed counselor in Pennsylvania and Florida with over 15 years of experience working in a variety of behavioral health settings and as a counselor. I received my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Centenary University. I have experience working with adults, young adults, couples and families. I am passionate about instilling hope in others to work towards reaching their goals. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues and career challenges. Taking the step to begin talking about issues we may be experiencing can be difficult, but I believe that we all have potential to make changes in our lives to feel happier more often. I offer a strength based approach during sessions to allow growth and to work on developing coping and communication skills. We will work together to develop goals, where you can use your strengths to face every day challenges and to find a balance in your life. I look forward to working with you!

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Shelly Proper

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and board certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I have worked in both private practice and at local agencies, as well as in the school system and in higher education. I have over 17 years of clinical experience with various populations with a wide variety of concerns, ranging from psychiatric conditions, addictions, physical trauma, emotional trauma, grief/loss/end of life, as well as menopause, healthy aging, career and life coaching. I have many years beyond working in the mental health setting in other capacities. I have a post master's certificate to teach psychology and have worked intensively with educational planning. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. I believe that the most productive therapy happens when clients are encouraged to be the experts of their own lives and that the goals of therapy are to help them find the options, skills and perspectives that can empower them to make changes to live a healthier and happier life. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy in my practice and emphasize maintaining appropriate boundaries within the therapeutic alliance. I see clients who are 25 and older. I look forward to working with you!

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Earl Driscoll

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
AddictionsLGBTSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
14 years of experience

I am a White cis-gendered gay/queer male Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the State of Pennsylvania who has been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have worked extensively with individual struggling with addictions, mood disorders, trauma, LGBT issues, and chronic medical conditions. My therapeutic style is one of collaboration and empathy mixed with encouragement and motivation. I am particularly versed in motivational interviewing, which is a technique to assist individuals in discovering their own internal motivations for change. Sometimes interacting with another person who is a skilled listener can be in and of itself helpful to someone looking for help. I am a skilled listener and additionally I have experience helping individuals to identify and create tangible plans of action to create change in their lives. I look forward to working with anyone who desires and is motivated to make change in their lives.

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Kelly Mandel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! I am licensed clinical social worker located near Detroit, Michigan. I grew up in Detroit and was a first-generation college graduate. I have spent my social work career working as a medical social worker and providing psychotherapy. I practice from a multiculturally competent and trauma-informed perspective, and life experiences have helped me be comfortable with individuals from a variety of life perspectives. I connect with clients deeply with compassion, kindness, determination, and certainly a sense of humor as appropriate. After 20 years in the field my toolbox is full and I am passionate about helping others acquire the tools they need to attain their goals. Let’s do it!

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Dr. Harriet Heath

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): PhD
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
46 years of experience

My work is mostly with parents. Parents, trying to figure out how they want to nurture and guide their children and to find guidance and help. My approach encourages parents to observe and describe situations that relate to their concerns and to brainstorm possible solutions. I frequently add to their list of possible solutions thus giving information and suggesting relevant skills. Parents decide which of their brainstormed ideas to implement by answering questions about their beliefs, values and the needs of their family members. Discussions about the questions and solutions gives parents an opportunity to raise additional parental concerns such as those related to work outside the home and those of being at home, family conflicts, stress and anxiety in parents and such issues as sleeping, eating problems and just plain misbehavior in children. Clients are encouraged to try different solutions and to report their degree of effectiveness and, if necessary to look for other solutions and to raise additional issues.

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Tiffany Thornton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 4 years of counseling experience. However, I have worked in behavioral health for 10+ years providing trauma informed services to adolescents and families. I have experience in helping individuals manage stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse and parenting issues. I believe that you are your life's expert. No one's opinion should matter more than your own. Together, we will identify your strengths and areas of growth that will help you reach your life goals and address challenges. Taking this first step took courage. Acknowledging your role in your wellness is key. Committing to the process of living well based on your needs is essential. I am here to support you in that process.

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Nancy Malwitz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hi I am a licensed professional counselor and I have been counseling for about five years now. I have a lot of experience with families and young adults and children. I spent the majority of my time when I was in school working with families who were in crisis with children who had behavior issues. I have since gained experience with adults and enjoy this as well. My counseling style is to be attentive and engaged with my clients so that they know that they have my full attention and that I am there to help them with whatever they are going for. I am kind and compassionate and empathetic due to my own experiences that I had growing up with a dysfunctional family. So I really understand what that is like in Real life and from these experiences I am I have gained valuable knowledge that can be helpful to those that I counsel with. I look forward to working with you to achieve our goals in counseling so that you can become whole and healthy and happy in life.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in State College

Finding the best therapist close by in State College 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 State College 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 State College. 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 State College, 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 State College region and in the state of Pennsylvania. 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, elsewhere in Centre, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania. 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 State College online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in State College, Pennsylvania 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 PA, 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 16803 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 State College counselor?

Before seeing your State College 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. State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, Pennsylvania 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.

State College 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 State College, Pennsylvania

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of State College 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 State College.

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

16801, 16802, 16803, 16804, 16805

Popular cities near State College, PA

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