This is Debra Shelton's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Shelton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MHSP,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take those first steps towards change - I’m glad you are here. The courage you are now using to seek help can lead to great rewards and I would be honored to work with you. I’m a licensed therapist with 20 years of experience and have been providing services for Betterhelp for the past 5 years. Regardless of your situation, (whether you just feel stuck or are trying to manage some big challenges in your life) counseling can be helpful and rewarding. My approach combines principles of different therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavior therapy and humanistic counseling. In plain English, that means I believe you have the answers within you and we can work together to uncover them and to find solutions. I work with you to understand how your challenges developed, but I also help you learn new problem solving skills that you can apply to future challenges. We may look into the past sometimes in order to help you gain insight into your challenges and we will try on some new perspectives and new behaviors in an effort to bring about positive changes in your life. Together, we will determine the goals you want to achieve and from there we will collaborate on how to tackle each of them. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Joshua McElroy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

***Currently unable to accept new clients as my caseload is full*** “I like flaws and feel more comfortable around people who have them. I myself am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions.” Hi there! I am Joshua, a nationally certified licensed professional counselor who adores meeting new people! I truly love my job, and hope that this reflects in our sessions. As a neurodivergent and queer human, I find my work to be special and unique, and I seek to provide informed services to fellow neurospicy humans :) Formerly from the Southern US (Mississippi), I now reside in Denver, Colorado. I have approximately 10 years of involvement with the counseling profession. I acquired my degrees from Mississippi State University in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have multiple national certifications. I have experience working in various settings, including acute/inpatient, university-based, outpatient addiction, and most recently as a children's therapist. I am a specialist in LGBTQ+ issues, and incorporate a lense of Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD) and Trauma-informed approaches to my practice. Domestically, I'm licensed to practice in the states of Mississippi and Colorado. I would describe myself as a very accepting and warm therapist, operating from a drive of empathy, multicultural competency, and compassion. I also view myself as alternative and non-traditional in most of my approaches. I tend to sway more towards a psychodynamic approach to therapy but also incorporate cognitive-behavioral, reality, existential, feminist, relational, culture-centered, and narrative styles. I’ve also taught and lectured in various psychology courses, with my favorite being Human Sexual Behavior. I like to incorporate my academic knowledge into my therapy practices, as I find psycho-education to be a magnificent tool in sustaining mental wellness. My primary goal is to be adaptable, accepting, and embracing. I love the experience of interpersonal connection that is provided by my career, and the ability to help empower others. I also love humor, and utilize it often! Therapy can often be portrayed as serious and 'stuffy' so I try to bring some joy into the room. I love the bonus of meeting international clients, as it provides the opportunity to learn more about each other's cultures! I feel honored to have the opportunity to provide my services to whoever is in need, and am eager to explore the journey of life with you!

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Alayna Bryant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MA, ,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) with 10 years of counseling and training experience, licensed in Mississippi. I have experience helping adults, couples, and families, from diverse backgrounds and with a wide variety of problems. However, the focus of my work is behavioral health and co-occurring mental health concerns and substance use problems. I am trained in a myriad of evidenced based techniques and adapt my approach to fit the needs of the individual with whom I am working. My passion is helping a person attain their personal goals and improve their quality of life. I tend to integrate person centered approaches, motivational enhancement, cognitive behavioral treatment, acceptance and commitment treatment, mindfulness practices, and meditation to achieve a tailored set of interventions for achieving significant and sustainable change. I am skilled in helping with mood problems, anxiety , relationship concerns, addictions, trauma and abuse, phase of life problems, vocational concerns, identity issues, and personality disorders. Together we may: 1) identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving; 2) learn to let go of shame, guilt, & anger associated with trauma or complicated grief; 3) replace old patterns with new patterns through developing healthy self-care practices; 4) cultivate a personal sense of purpose and connection to self and others. I strive to provide a safe and affirming environment for a person to explore and process their concerns.

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Curtis Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of experience working as therapist, social worker, counselor Public Health Administrator. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, with a special focus on individuals over 55 years of age as well young adults and adolescents. I have helped many young people and elderly who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is compassionate and empathetic. I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist determines the effectiveness of the therapeutic process. Treating everyone with dignity and respect is ingrained into my character and is reflected in my interaction with others. Cognitive behavioral therapy is my preferred treatment modality along with solution focused therapy. We will develop a plan of treatment based on your needs as a guide towards attainment of your desired goals You have taken the first step towards a better life. I will be here to assist throughout this journey going forward. I am excited about joining you on this journey! SPECIALTIES: • Stress, Anxiety • Trauma and abuse • Grief/loss • Depression Experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Sleeping disorders ,Self- esteem , Bipolar disorder and Coping with life changes Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 28

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Hope Spencer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC 1144,NBSC 84187,NCC 84187
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionADHD
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, We will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. An Integrated approach can be utilized as well. I am a good listener, and caring, sensitive, and energetic. Not only do I have the necessary credentials, experience, and hours to be licensed, but I have a lifetime of experience and wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! I like to think I am funny :)! I have wanted to be a therapist since the age of 16 and that was a loooong time ago!

This is Kimala Flowers's avatar and link to their profile

Kimala Flowers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MS, CMHT, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a LPC and BC-TMH. I graduated from William Carey College with a Bachelors of General Studies in Business Administration and Psychology; and I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling from Jackson State University. I have over 16 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience working as an adult clinician, in outpatient community mental health. I focus on working with adults and families often with emotional and mental health problems, by providing mental health counseling. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as suicidal ideations, homicidal ideations, drug and alcohol abuse, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, coping skills, and trauma. I also have experience working in a residential treatment facility with youths and adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. I enjoy helping others establish goals, meeting those goals, and developing coping skills to help them manage everyday life situations and issues. I have worked with all ages, providing individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. My approach to counseling is a cognitive-behavioral perspective; meaning my goal is to help clients change patterns of thinking and behavior by recognizing and changing negative thoughts, learning to manage negative emotions, and controlling unhealthy impulses. Other interventions and treatment approaches that I utilize are DBT and Trauma-Focused therapy.

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Samuel Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in the states of Mississippi, Louisiana, Nevada and West Virginia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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. 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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Maricus Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Maricus Walker, and I am active professional counselor (LPC) and certified counselor (NCC) in the state of Mississippi. I provide counseling services to adults of varying ages and backgrounds with multiple concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship-intimacy issues, and several other areas. I have experience working with in outpatient settings, correctional settings, and inpatient care settings. I make it my mission to provide the most effective treatment in order to help those meet their needs and daily life goals.

This is Joycelyn Green's avatar and link to their profile

Joycelyn Green

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Relationship issuesGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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. 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 Shaneka Boles's avatar and link to their profile

Shaneka Boles

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Marion

Finding the best therapist close by in Marion 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 in Marion 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 Marion. 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 Marion, 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 in the Marion region and in the state of Mississippi. 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 Marion 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Marion area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Marion 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 Marion, elsewhere in Lauderdale, or in the greater state of Mississippi.

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 Marion 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 Marion 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 Marion 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 Marion may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi 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 Mississippi you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

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

Therapists in Marion, Mississippi 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 Marion 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Marion 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 Marion 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Marion 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Marion 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 in Marion?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Marion 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.

Marion 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 Marion 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 Marion 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 MS, therapists 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 39305 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Marion counselor?

Before seeing your Marion 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 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 in Marion.

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 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 from a therapist. A Marion 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 with a Marion 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 Marion, Mississippi 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.

Marion 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 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 Marion, Mississippi

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 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 Marion.

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

39305, 39342

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