Life can bruise you with its constant challenges, disappointments, and losses. You think constantly about your problems without ever finding any solutions. Your emotions run from sadness to anxiety to anger. You feel unable to get through each day. Problems come from both your environment and your own mind.

Portage is the hometown of Earl Abell, who was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. When life’s problems tackle you, facing the next play seems unimaginable. You don’t know how to improve your mental wellbeing. Talk to a counselor in the Portage area for a brand-new playbook.

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Emily Schram

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

One of my greatest pleasures of being a counselor is the honor of witnessing and helping a client along their personal journey to a life worth living. I assist my clients, which include adolescents and adults, to find healthy perceptions of themselves, identify skills, and strengthen their relationships to find peace, hope, and joy. There is no single approach for every client, and I have been trained in a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and client centered techniques. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Mississippi. I have a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Memphis. I have been practicing as an outpatient therapist in community and private clinic settings since 2013. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin, and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC). I have just recently moved to the sunny Southwest - Albuquerque, New Mexico to be exact! So if you're in MN or WI I'm just an hour behind. :) I look forward to talking with you and helping you on your journey towards the life you want. *she/her

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Larry Laehn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): MSED, LPC,SAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello, I am Larry Laehn. I currently live in Milton Wisconsin and grew up in the Fox Cities area. I was adopted into my family at age of two weeks. I have a life-long challenge with Charcot-Marie- Tooth Disease and have used a wheelchair for mobility for many years. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Substance Abuse Counselor in Wisconsin. I also have provided Employee Assistance Program services. My 25 years of counseling practice has been in both outpatient clinical and in private practice settings. My educational background includes an Associate in Finance , a Bachelor in Business Administration, a Masters in Management and a Masters in Education-Community Counseling. I am also an active Director and member of several not-for-profit organizations. My therapy focuses on helping people find self-love and then using that state of mind/ body to tackle the issues that are holding them back in life. I use integrative medicine knowledge to address behavioral/ mental/ health challenges. Problems faced by people are very often really challenges that are waiting to be solved. God does not create junk and each of us has value and untapped capabilities within us. I would be honored to help you start or restart your therapy journey ! Larry Laehn MS Education (Community Counseling) MS Management nd Organizational Behavior Employee Assistance Provider Licensed Professional Counselor Substance Abuse Counselor ''Try to avoid hardening of the heart, it is much more painful and destructive than hardening of the arteries" Larry Laehn

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Candace Buckley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,FDC,CMS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
20 years of experience

Choosing a therapist can be quite difficult because you want to ensure there is a good fit so you are  comfortable sharing personal information and receiving the assistance you are seeking.  I hope you will allow me the opportunity to meet your goals.  My name is Candace Williams and I have been an  LCSW for over the past 20 years.  I graduated from Columbia University in New York City with a concentration in Health/ Mental Health.   I am fortunate to have worked with many different people in many different settings. I have worked a wide range of adults from various backgrounds.   My experience ranges vastly from being a first responder during September 11th to working in mental health clinics, private practice companies, hospices, and hospitals. In my private practice, I have addressed many various issues from mental health diagnosis to adjusting to new situations, work with sincerity, compassion and nonjudgement, addiction issues, dealing with grief, improving communication strategies, or talking out a complex decision.  It is really important for me to help get to the root cause of an issue so that we do not just put on a band-aid but, instead, help you solve the issue for good. I will provide a nurturing environment where you can talk candidly about your concerns. I do not practice just one type of therapy because I believe there are bits and pieces that work from each one.  The trick is ensuring I am using a method that works best for you in a timely manner.  A good therapist will meet you where you are and will think outside of the box.  I promise I will ensure we work on your goals that best meet your needs.  I am looking forward to the opportunity to serve you!

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Rabecca Cole

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based out of Wisconsin. I have been practicing for over ten years, and in my time, I have had the great opportunity to work with people who were struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life events, and chronic disease. In addition to being an ally to the LGBTQI+ community, I have hold a certificate from the University of Michigan for sexual health, and working towards certification as a sex therapist. I am always looking to expand my knowledge and understanding people, and how I can be of better help to my community. I draw from several modalities of treatment, including Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral treatment, Mindfulness, and person centered treatment. I feel that it's important to meet people where they are in in their journey with life and I'm honored to join them. I feel that there is not one way to approach all people, we are always changing, as are, our needs. I will always remain authentic, genuine, and respectful. I look forward to working with you and I appreciate you taking this next step in your journey in life with me.

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Gracia Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disorders
3 years of experience

Hello! I'm Gracia (Gray-sha) and I have been practicing counseling for the past 3 years. I have worked in a variety of settings doing counseling with people of all different ages and mental health disorders, including, but not limited to: substance addictions, behavioral addictions, couples, children, teens, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I have helped many clients in healing from traumas, relationship problems, and emotional regulation. Currently I am available on betterhelp for about five hours per week. I am mostly available for sessions on Monday mornings, but at times my schedule will differ. My counseling style is kind and gentle, but also direct. I provide a nonjudgmental and caring space, but am also not afraid to challenge my clients or uncover hard truths in a respectful manor. I see myself as a giver in my roll. I give people the opportunity and tools to help and heal themselves. It is an honor for me to work with people as they go through hard times in their lives, and I take that roll very seriously. I look forward to working with you! :)

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Sara Singleton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hello! I am Sara Singleton. I am a clinically licensed bilingual (English/Spanish) social worker licensed in the state of Illinois and Wisconsin. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service in New York City, where I am from. I have over 14 years experience in various parts of the field of social work: Child welfare advocacy, substance use disorders, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, sexual assault response advocacy and hospice/grief counseling. I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational and other diversified backgrounds, including LGBTQ. In my work as a clinician, I ensure my clients are free from judgement in a safe environment in which they can safely process their feelings while I help to guide them on their journey to healing and/or helping them reach their goals. My focal point is ALWAYS meeting my clients where they are at in life and not where I would like them to be as this is their journey not mine. I utilize a variety of combine clinical approaches that are individualized to each client's needs, all treatment plans are developed together and with the approval of the clients I work. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to beginning our work together soon! With care and attention to all that matters to you, Sara

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Vanessa LaRose

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jessica Hobart

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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John Troast

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

I have significant experience working with adults and families in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem/identity, and relationship issues. I work one-on-one with clients to identify relevant life issues and coordinate specific, goal-oriented objectives for our work together. These goals are reassessed and modified as needed on an ongoing basis to maintain therapeutic focus. I practice using a trauma-informed, non-judgemental approach which utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidenced-based techniques to create individualized plans of care for each client. Starting therapy can be an intimidating process, but I would like to make it as easy as possible. I am happy to address any questions or concerns that you might have, or discuss what our work together might look like - all you need to do is ask!

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Jennifer Mott

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience

HI! I am licensed in Wisconsin with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, parenting issues, addiction, self-esteem, and confidence. I enjoy working with children! I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Portage

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

Therapists in Portage, Wisconsin 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 Portage 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 Portage 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 Portage 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 Portage?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Portage 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 Portage 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 Portage 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 WI, 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 53901 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 Portage counselor?

Before seeing your Portage 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. Portage 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 Portage 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 Portage 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 Portage, Wisconsin 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.

Portage 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 Portage, Wisconsin

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 Portage 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 Portage.

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

53901

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