Working with a therapist can help you develop healthy coping skills and overcome many mental health challenges. If you’re looking for a therapist in Iowa, barriers to treatment can make it difficult to find in-person treatment. 

With BetterHelp, you can work with a licensed marriage and family therapist, social worker, or other mental health professional from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. Your therapist will use a person-centered therapy approach to ensure you get support tailored to your unique needs and preferences, whether you’re having mental health issues related to past trauma like sexual abuse or are experiencing low self-esteem, relationship challenges, or work-related stress.

Note that while many of the licensed mental health professionals on the platform may have served children in their prior training and careers, BetterHelp does not currently provide services like play therapy to children or adolescents.

If you’re looking for an online therapist, IA has many qualified professionals licensed to provide therapy state-wide. Connect with one of the counselors below to learn more about how therapy can help you along your life journey.

 

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This is Leah Pavela-Mullins's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Pavela-Mullins

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: MN LICSW 29567, IL LCSW 149022843
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!

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Amanda Thooft

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: WI LCSW 12104 - 123, IA LISW 136489
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Amanda specializes in supporting individuals and couples navigating life transitions and relationship challenges. Whether you’re adjusting to a new stage of life, experiencing changes in family dynamics, or wanting to build healthier, more fulfilling connections, Amanda provides a safe and supportive space to explore what’s most important to you. Her approach is strengths-based and flexible, tailored to your unique needs and goals. Amanda believes therapy works best when it feels collaborative and personal, and she draws from a variety of methods to create a style that fits you—not the other way around. Clients who work with Amanda often appreciate her compassionate, encouraging, and direct style. She offers both warmth and honest feedback, helping people move through uncertainty with clarity and confidence. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Amanda is passionate about helping clients grow through change, strengthen their relationships, and step into a life that feels authentic and meaningful.

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Renee Sharper

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: TX LPC 80667, IA LMHC 136036
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Matthew Manz

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 080281
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Canadian Certified Counsellor #11245693 and Iowa Licensed Mental Health Counselor #080281. As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding the unique challenges of personal growth, with a particular focus on depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem development. I offer compassionate guidance for those experiencing workplace stress, communication difficulties, family challenges, and life transitions. My therapeutic style is deeply empathetic, creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore personal struggles, work through guilt and shame, and develop healthier coping strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I'm committed to helping clients build resilience, improve interpersonal relationships, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're dealing with codependency, separation, or family of origin issues, I also work with those considering divorce. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with respect and understanding. My practice welcomes individuals seeking a thoughtful, progressive approach to mental health that honors your personal journey and unique experiences.

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Tasha Lowman

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 007943
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Iowa with over 5 years experience working with children, teens and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, anger management and trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines several therapy techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused. I will tailor our conversations and create individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards change in order to have a happier life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to give you support and help you along the way. I check my messages Monday through Friday, with the goal of responding in 48 hours or less. I do check messages on Saturday and Sunday in the mornings. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

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Jennifer Van Fosson-Roelfs

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 00681
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

I have had the privilege to be a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and provide therapy services for over 2o+ years. I completed my MS.Ed at Southern Illinois and my undergraduate work at the University of Iowa. I am passionate about working with adolescents, adults, families and couples. I believe in using a relationship based, strength driven approach for each individual. I provide a safe and relaxed environment to encourage you to achieve the goals you have identified. I have experience in addressing areas such as depression, grief and loss, crisis management, anxiety, trauma, suicide and crisis, LGBTQ, women’s issues, stress, mood disorders and comorbidity and many others. I believe I offer a very positive experience, as my goal is always to build a solid relationship out of trust and caring. I have worked within the fields of corrections, schools and education, communities, addictions, residential and outpatient settings. I believe in focusing on strengths, meeting you where you are at regarding your goals and building relationships with each individual. I use techniques based on your needs; including CBT, TFCBT, RET, Relationship and strength based, culturally sensitive, solution focused, addiction. mindfulness, Systems and Brief approaches. I address the biological, emotional and relational aspects in your life. I believe each individual has the ability to make changes in their life. I feel it is a honor to be chosen to engage in the therapy journey with you. I will empower you to find your strengths, your abilities and to be the expert in your life. Seeking therapy is often the hardest step and I look forward to being a part of your future story.

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Melody Hatter

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: CO LCSW CSW.09929681, IA LISW 119831
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Invest in yourself. You are worth it! It is not about being connected. It is about feeling connected. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas, Iowa, Colorado and Utah. I currently reside in Texas. I received a Master of Science in Social Work at The University of Texas at Arlington in 2014. My undergraduate degree is in Applied Gerontology. My professional experience includes inpatient psychiatric treatment and emergency departments working with adults from age 18-95. I have engaged clients in Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Reminiscent Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy among other therapeutic modalities. Working to manage depression, anxiety, addiction, substance use/abuse, grief and/or suicidal ideation is my passion. I have motivated individuals, couples and families to engage in change. My goal is assisting people remain in the community and not become hospitalized. Together we can make that happen! There is no problem that does not have a solution. There are always options. I have an extensive "toolbox" and will encourage you to build one as well. I am genuine and that will be evident the first time we meet. Allow me to help put 'life' back into living with a new perspective. I do not provide faith based therapy nor prayer in session. If this is the type of therapy you are looking for, I will not be a good fit and recommend seeking someone with a seminary background. Thank you very much. I care. Let's talk!

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Sergio Ayala

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IL LCPC 180016866, IA LMHC 094835
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa and Illinois with 9 years of professional clinical work experience. I have a Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling, a Masters of Divinity with 4 Units of Clinical Pastoral Education, and over 15 years of Ministerial/Pastoral Practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & dementia caregiver stress. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Cadyn Burnside

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: PA LCSW CW024305, SC LISW-CP 14110
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Elizabeth Souba

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: CO LPC LPC.0019031, FL LMHC MH26094
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Where is home? Where do I belong? Will I ever feel settled? If you find yourself asking these questions, let us navigate it together. Life is unscripted and messy but if you are ready to embrace the unsettled feeling, today is a good day to start. I had the pleasure to live and work overseas for 8 years and here to support those that were once an expat or Third Culture Kid. I refer to myself as a Third Culture Adult, finding comfort in working with those from a transient lifestyle, even though my first time living outside my passport country was in my 20s. My background began as a teacher and school counselor till I left education to advance my professional career to more clinical counseling. I can support a variety of life stages from post high school exploration, careers/university to adulthood hurdles. I take a Humanistic approach where I like to build a rapport and relationship with each person and support your story. As an unknown source said "Never judge my story by the chapter you walk in on."

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James Bustamante

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 00424
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, depression, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, and issues specific to parenting individuals transitioning. 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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Mary Ruhland

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 01284, SD CSW-PIP 3229
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Iowa with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem issues. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals experiencing social isolation, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, explore life purpose, and heal from past experiences. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, relationship challenges, body image concerns, or midlife transitions, I provide a supportive and understanding environment. I believe in creating a collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strength. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work towards healing, personal growth, and meaningful life changes.

This is Tyler Gray's avatar and link to their profile

Tyler Gray

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 122424
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Nicole Schrader's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Schrader

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 116562
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the growth, honesty, love, curiosity and justice, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With four years of clinical therapy experience, and two decades of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, breathwork, and holistic practices. I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges, processing past trauma, and developing coping skills to build an empowered life. I work with clients navigating trauma/PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, single motherhood, communication skills and life transitions. I am grateful that you're here, taking the first step towards a more fulfilled life. It would be my pleasure to work with you. I look forward to connecting with you to see if we are a good fit!

Find Therapy Near You in Iowa

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Iowa can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of 2,499,317, Iowa is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Iowa, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Iowa (IA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Jefferson, Hardin, Warren, Guthrie, Dallas, Union, Wapello, Washington, Plymouth, Buena Vista, Monroe, Marshall, Linn, Franklin, Kossuth, Polk, Wayne, Butler, Chickasaw, Sioux, Lyon, Iowa, Jones, Story, Fremont, Clinton, Jackson, Cass, Woodbury, Adair, Carroll, O'Brien, Lee, Crawford, Fayette, Emmet, Dickinson, Ida, Dubuque, Osceola, Muscatine, Taylor, Benton, Marion, Sac, Audubon, Cherokee, Buchanan, Pottawattamie, Palo Alto, Webster, Mahaska, Jasper, Ringgold, Grundy, Boone, Des Moines, Davis, Wright, Cedar, Scott, Madison, Page, Van Buren, Hamilton, Monona, Winneshiek, Humboldt, Worth, Shelby, Bremer, Hancock, Poweshiek, Adams, Tama, Winnebago, Cerro Gordo, Harrison, Mitchell, Black Hawk, Appanoose, Lucas, Floyd, Howard, Greene, Clayton, Montgomery, Delaware, Louisa, Henry, Johnson, Decatur, Keokuk, Clay, Allamakee, Mills, Calhoun, Pocahontas, Clarke, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Iowa with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Iowa

When searching for a therapist near me in Iowa, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Iowa, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Iowa.

Finding a therapist near you that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Iowa want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Iowa

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Iowa without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Iowa (IA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in Iowa

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Iowa, including residents in Jefferson, Hardin, Warren, Guthrie, Dallas, Union, Wapello, Washington, Plymouth, Buena Vista, Monroe, Marshall, Linn, Franklin, Kossuth, Polk, Wayne, Butler, Chickasaw, Sioux, Lyon, Iowa, Jones, Story, Fremont, Clinton, Jackson, Cass, Woodbury, Adair, Carroll, O'Brien, Lee, Crawford, Fayette, Emmet, Dickinson, Ida, Dubuque, Osceola, Muscatine, Taylor, Benton, Marion, Sac, Audubon, Cherokee, Buchanan, Pottawattamie, Palo Alto, Webster, Mahaska, Jasper, Ringgold, Grundy, Boone, Des Moines, Davis, Wright, Cedar, Scott, Madison, Page, Van Buren, Hamilton, Monona, Winneshiek, Humboldt, Worth, Shelby, Bremer, Hancock, Poweshiek, Adams, Tama, Winnebago, Cerro Gordo, Harrison, Mitchell, Black Hawk, Appanoose, Lucas, Floyd, Howard, Greene, Clayton, Montgomery, Delaware, Louisa, Henry, Johnson, Decatur, Keokuk, Clay, Allamakee, Mills, Calhoun, Pocahontas, Clarke.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Iowa do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times for online therapy may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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