If you’re navigating challenges like difficult life transitions, family conflict, and unhealthy habits, talking to a therapist can help you live a more meaningful life. A therapist in Columbus, GA, can help.

If you’re interested in individual counseling, you have a few options. There are plenty of professionals in the mental health field in Columbus, whether you’re looking for a counseling center or an individual therapist. Counseling centers may see many clients, making it difficult to get an appointment, and therapy can be costly, regardless of the types of insurances accepted. An online therapy platform like BetterHelp can make finding an available counselor who fits your schedule easier. 

Whether you work with a therapist online or in person, a qualified mental health professional can help you manage symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or panic attacks, but they can also help with things like coping with divorce, working through insomnia, or dealing with abusive family members. When you connect with a therapist, your first appointment may be dedicated to getting to know each other and developing a treatment plan that best suits your well-being. If you’re ready to get started, contact one of the therapists serving Columbus below.

 

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Christie Phillips

Offering therapy in GA
License: MS,LPC
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Counselor with 13 years experience working with clients in a behavioral and psychological, therapeutic environment and 13 years experience working with clients in a professional, business, human-development environment. All of my experience has provided me with opportunities to assist and guide others in their life development. I have worked with clients/individuals/families/couples from age 3 to 90's and am always excited to engage and assist my clients at any point in their life to adjust, cope and improve. I appreciate the uniqueness of others and have genuine interest and value in diversity. My goal as a therapist is to connect with my client, understand their needs and utilize an approach and tools that allow them to get to the place they desire to go. I have provided services in a variety of environments including personal, business, legal, medical, academic and community. I feel that I am effective in any therapeutic situation because of my experience and approach, but I have specialized in trauma situations, extreme behavior/emotional issues, couples/relationship improvement and autism spectrum behaviors. Though these are specialty areas, they are not a limit of interests or experience; I gained the opportunity to become specialized primarily due to referrals for service and sponsored training. Though this a brief introduction, my hope is that it provides you with an appropriate amount of insight about me and assists in your process of finding a therapist to work with. I feel that comfort level in therapy and connection with the therapist is important for success in the therapeutic process and I strive to create both for my clients. I wish you the best in your search for answers and solutions and I'm glad you are here.

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Kristen Barrett

Offering therapy in GA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for considering working with me! My name is Kristen and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. I have had over 5 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including in-home, hospital, private office and running an outpatient day program for severe mental illness. I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), low-self esteem, depression, anger management, family conflict, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem. I also have experience working with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mild autism. I pride myself on creating an environment for my clients that is upbeat, positive and supportive. I love helping clients boost their self-esteem, and increase their quality of life. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my lifelong passion for helping others. I have always been the friend that people turned to for a listening ear or advice, so I took my natural gifts of emotional support and I went to school to sharpen my skills, learn proven techniques, and become a counselor. I understand that having mental health concerns can be difficult. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, which prevents many people from seeking help, so I work to show people that seeking assistance is healthy and should be the norm. The process for getting help can sometimes be overwhelming, and it can feel frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I feel that building rapport is the most important factor to successful counseling. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to share their stories, process their journey and gain the peace and achievements they seek. I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor treatment approaches to your needs while being sensitive to how your own personal cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Together we can work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. I look forward to speaking with you!

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Candace Franks

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issues
8 years of experience

Hi! Thank you for taking the time to come on to my page and learn how I can help you. My name is Candace Franks. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, licensed in Georgia. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including; depression, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy issues, career challenges, anger, and addictions. I have helped many clients who have experienced trauma to include abuse. I have worked with different communities to include; military, children & youth, young adults, LGBTQ, elderly, couples, and families coping with addiction. At heart, I am an existential therapist. My focus will be on understanding the unique way that you interpret the world. I believe that by having a real, authentic relationship with my clients, I am able to help them find insight and meaning. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I will hold a deep respect and compassion for you. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals. I know that it takes courage to seek a happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. When you are ready, I am here. I look forward to getting to know you.

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Keionna Baker

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC,LMHC,CCATP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

“Professional therapeutic counseling involves several factors. First, the therapist must have passion and a genuine care for people. Second, the therapist must have the training, knowledge and experience to effectively treat their clients. Third, personal opinions, biases and judgment are left at the door. Finally, individualized approaches and individualized treatment plans must be created for each client based on their current behavioral health status.” These factors keep therapists focused, grounded and remind us daily that each individual whom we serve deserves the highest level of care, confidence and respect regardless of their socio-economic position in life.” Greetings, I am Keionna Baker, LPC, LMHC, LCMHC,CCATP, a Georgia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Alaska and New York licensed professional counselor, a pending certified addictions counselor, maintains current membership with the Georgia Licensed Professional Counselor Association and the National Board of Certified Counselors. Recently, I have been trained and identified as a Diversity and Inclusion Coach for the state of NY. As a result of my faith and religious affiliations I have initiated training in Inner Healing Prayer as a therapeutic approach available in my practice. I hold a Master’s Degree in mental health counseling from Argosy University, Nashville which was conferred in December 2011. I received my undergraduate degree in social work from Austin Peay State University, Clarksville which was granted May 2007. During both degree programs, she graduated Summa Cum Laude. I have over ten years therapeutic counseling experience with adolescent and adult clients from within a variety of treatment settings. These settings include U.S. military installations, K-12 educational systems; day treatment and outpatient clinic programs; juvenile and adult correctional institutions; department of family and children services; religious settings; in-home visits; and lastly, telehealth which include video, telephone and text correspondence. My areas of emphasis include varying degrees of sexual, mental and physical trauma; bipolar and related disorders; anxiety disorders (panic disorder, etc.); trauma and stressor related disorders (posttraumatic stress disorder, etc.); dissociative disorders (dissociative identity disorder, etc.); somatic symptoms and related disorders (factitious disorder, etc.); eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, etc.); sleep disorders (narcolepsy, etc.); conduct disorders (oppositional defiant disorder, etc.); substance related and addictive disorders (stimulate related disorder, etc.); neurocognitive disorders (dementia, etc.); personality disorders (obsessive compulsive disorder, etc.) Additionally, I have significant experience working with children, adolescents and adults who live with neurodevelopmental disorders (intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders). Additionally, through the Military Life Counseling Family Program via a Department of Defense contract, I work extensively with military personel, spouses, children and adolescents as well as their families and educators regarding family transition with pre and post deployments, permanent changes of station, integration into new school and community settings and family conflict due to stress. A proud military spouse, I am also a mother to three awesome children. During her leisure time, I participates as a guest speaker at various behavioral health events, churches, community centers and educational institutions where I enjoy educating the public and her professional peers on the importance and value of behavioral health services regarding everyone’s overall mental health and quality of life. When I am not working or participating in speaking engagements and volunteer activities, I enjoy crafting (my favorite therapeutic approach) and baking with her family. Depression Anxiety and Phobias Relationship Difficulties Life Transitions Difficulties with Self-Esteem Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Professional/Career Issues College/Graduate School Issues Oppositional Defiance Stress Management Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) Sexual Abuse Spirituality Women's Issues LGBTQ-Related Issues Parenting

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Siyama Drake

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 26 years of experience working with children, couples and families with trauma histories living in residential and community settings. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) techniques to address the diverse needs of my clients. My counseling style is based upon the needs of my clients. I can be supportive and also challenging when needed to address the barriers that are keeping you stuck in the same place. Recognizing that you need help to overcome challenges in your life is the first step to making changes. I'm here to help you get started on the road to living a happier, healthier and satisfying life. I look forward to working with you to meet your maximum potential.

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Kentaya Nielly

Offering therapy in GA
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I have a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. Since I was young, I’ve always known that counseling others is my passion. I have worked with various populations including those who have faced serious and significant trauma, those recovering from substance dependence, as well as individuals who simply wanted to achieve or maintain optimal mental wellness. I believe that we all hold the keys to our destinies inside of us and often simply need a bit of guidance in unlocking those destinies to reach our ultimate potential. My therapeutic approach utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I believe that the therapeutic process is collaborative in nature and is only beneficial when you have the opportunity to establish the goals that are important to you. By establishing the goals that are most important to you, we can work together to determine the best course of action in achieving those goals. Most of the work in therapy often happens outside of the confines of the session; it’s my desire to equip you with the tools that you need so that you can do the work. I am here to you develop insight and improve those areas of your life that you are struggling. I believe that one of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship between you and I. It is unlike any other relationship in our lives because it is a place that we can truly be free to express ourselves with no fear of judgment. I am a person committed to maintaining the integrity of that relationship. I often tell my clients that I am going to guide you in the best way that I know how while also holding you accountable for being responsible for your healing; you are the master of your life. I am excited to work with you! Everything that you need will be given to you when the time is right. Trust in the timing of all that you are.

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Kenya Rainey

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor with 6 years of specialized work experience. I have experience in helping clients with developing tools that will assist with building motivation, overcoming self-esteem issues, support with confidence building, and teaching new coping techniques that will assist with transitioning into new life changes. I believe you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist with overcoming issues you may find challenging. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. You got this!

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Amy Wallins

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia with 17 years of professional experience. I am experienced in helping clients who are coping with grief and loss, stress and anxiety, depression, family/relationship conflicts, as well as LGBTQ+ specific concerns. I have worked in the hospice field for many years and have developed a wealth of knowledge surrounding grief and loss in all aspects of life. I have also worked with those living with HIV/AIDS and understand the unique set of challenges faced by this community. My varied work and life experiences give me a sincere and empathic lens which I use to help my clients as they embark on their therapeutic journeys. I believe that this sincerity comes across with each person with whom I have worked. My therapy style is warm, engaging, and interactive. My therapeutic approaches vary based on each specific client and their unique needs. I am also trained in Motivational Interviewing which gives my clients the tools to be able to take charge of their lives. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I am here to support and empower you in that process. I look forward to working with you!

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Laura Terrell

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 17 years of professional work experience. I am certified in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experience working with adolescents and teens as well. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Chad Billington

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Georgia, Maryland, and New York with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Columbus

Finding the best therapist close by in Columbus 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Columbus. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Columbus, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Columbus or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Columbus area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Columbus, elsewhere in Muscogee, or in the greater state of Georgia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Columbus area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Columbus therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Columbus due to a higher cost of living. 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 Columbus may not take health insurance, some in the state of Georgia may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Georgia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Columbus, Georgia 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Columbus 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 lead by a therapist in Columbus helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Columbus 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Columbus therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Columbus 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 lot of people in GA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 31904 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Columbus counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Columbus 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Columbus, Georgia 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.

Columbus has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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

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

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

31808, 31820, 31829, 31901, 31902, 31903, 31904, 31905, 31906, 31907, 31908, 31909, 31914, 31917, 31993, 31997, 31998, 31999

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