In search of a licensed therapist? Fort Smith, AR is home to plenty—and with BetterHelp, you can look beyond Sebastian County and find the therapist that’s right for you. 

With BetterHelp, you’re not limited to the mental health professionals in the river valley—we network with therapists across Arkansas, meaning you can connect with a clinician who specializes in your area of need and offers the counseling style you prefer.

No matter what you’re dealing with—whether it’s a mental illness like depression or anxiety, a behavioral health issue like an addiction or eating disorder, or the aftermath of a traumatic experience—BetterHelp can match you with a therapist who is equipped to offer the evidence-based mental health care you need.

Our network includes licensed professional counselors (LPC) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) trained in a number of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and more. 

Through BetterHelp, you can access these counseling services from the comfort of home, or anywhere with an internet connection. In weekly sessions with your therapist, you can uncover the root of your struggles and develop actionable strategies for working through them. You’ll also benefit from group therapy, in-platform journaling and therapy homework, and educational webinars, helping you get the most out of your mental health investment.

Life isn’t easy—but with the skills and insight learned in therapy, you can gain the ability to deal with whatever’s around the corner. Get started today to match with a therapist and discover why thousands of Arkansans trust BetterHelp to deliver the mental health care needed to thrive.

This is Eileen Cauley's avatar and link to their profile

Eileen Cauley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
44 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a female Licensed Certified Social Worker in Arkansas with 44 years of experience. I am also a Reiki healer. I have had many years of experience and training in hypnotherapy and combine the hypnotic trance with healing techniques when requested. I work with clients to transform obstacles into resources and become the best version of themselves--one that goes beyond what their conscious mind thought was possible. Approaches I love are Mindfulness, Creative Change, and Wellness, and Healing. I tailor the model of treatment to the client rather than the client to the model of treatment I loved my work so much that I made many lateral moves, wanting to know as much about each area of therapy as possible. I stayed at a job for an average of two years before moving to another job to explore another area. For example, if I were were working with children, I would move to a job working with domestic violence, then addictions, then psychiatric disorders, etc. As a result, I have become a very competent generalist in all areas of therapy. I work with clients as a working team in a warm, interactive way. I have also worked extensively with active duty military service members and their families. I was a Military and Family Life Consultant, working with active duty military and their families on military bases for 10 years. I continue to love working with our military population. I have great respect for people who seek help for obstacles that are troublesome in their lives and work hard with them to achieve their goals. I have worked on my own issues in therapy to insure that my clients get excellent help from an emotionally healthy person. I would love to support you in your life journey.

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Beverly Knighten

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Beverly Knighten, I am a professional counselor currently licensed in Oklahoma with over 12 years of experience working as a LCSW in multiple settings, and states. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addiction and SMI. Most of my career has been working with the military in various occupations and settings. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is eclectic, compassionate and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, and in a non-judgement approach. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, talk therapy, person-centered and solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Shontrice Hansen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am an LPC with over 10 years of counseling experience. I enjoy working with clients of all ages who need help navigating this obstacle we call life. I have experience working in individual and family therapy, through struggles of depression, anxiety, anger, behavior problems, grief, stress, relational conflicts, and traumatic events. I am flexible with office hours, to meet the needs of my clients as best as possible. With training in various therapeutic approaches, I am able to build a plan for my client based on their particular needs including use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Strength Based, and Motivational Interviewing. I'm passionate about helping people find freedom and growth, mending areas that you feel broken in. I strive to teach clients how to live in true vulnerability where they feel accepted and can grow in their relationships. You and your mental health are worth it, it would be my privilege to assist you in the process of understanding more about yourself and taking steps towards healing.

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Stephanie Hodges

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, They say if you find a career you love, it doesn't ever feel like work. Well, I've been loving my career for the past 11 years! I received my bachelor's degree in Psychology and master's in Agency Counseling. I worked at an Out Patient Therapy center for 10 years and now currently work at an acute hospital that specializes in suicidal/homicidal ideation and psychosis. I use Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused as my main therapy approaches. Based on the client's needs, the approach will be individualized. Are you very anxious? Can't seem to stop the irrational thoughts from taking up most of your day? I provided guided mediation to help with reducing anxiety and PTSD related symptoms.

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Marlo Floyd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CCM,LADC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Marlo. I have been in the field for over 15 years and have been blessed with the opportunity to work with numerous populations. In today’s tumultuous times, poverty, increase stress, family & relationship problems, and personal self-adjustment/esteem issues cause many to have a demanding and unhappy life. I use a holistic combination of talk therapy, spiritual/energy work, mindfulness techniques, humor, and a commonsense approach. With an emphasis on spiritual and physical healing. Allow me to help you in your time of need. I come from a compassionate, non-judgmental, strengths-based perspective in my clinical practice and life. I can help you learn life skills, change undesired habits, and identify alternate healthy thinking patterns so that you can decrease your anxiety & depression while increasing your self-esteem and quality of life. Through the work we do together you can expect to achieve self-confidence, forgiveness, peace, inner harmony, and healthier relationships. I specialize in working with individuals that have been affected with mood disorders, anger problems, trauma, low self-esteem, and substance abuse. I counsel from a Spiritual/Christian perspective, as well as respectfully work with a client's source of inspiration. Allow me to join you on your journey of enlightenment and healing.

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Linda Lay

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesADHD
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Arkansas with 16 years of professional work experience. In my practice I primarily serve those who are experiencing stress, anxiety, response to trauma and abuse, & person issues dealing with lack of motivation, low self esteem, and confidence. Many of my clients are working through issues dealing with life changes. Therapy with me generally begins with helping my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Haley Manning

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Arkansas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Shelby Koshy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 3 years. My work experience includes community based mental health services, inpatient behavioral health, intensive outpatient behavioral health, and community service organizations. I have experience working with young adults, parents and families, and individuals. I am particularly passionate about helping people connect to their communities, accessing resources, meeting their basic needs, and working towards their best selves. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I will take a person-centered, empathetic approach and provide you with the tools you need to handle challenging situations and life’s problems. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Deirdra Gordon's avatar and link to their profile

Deirdra Gordon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Deirdra Gordon, LPC, AADC is a licensed mental health therapist and advanced addictions professional currently practicing in the state of Arkansas. She has experience in helping clients with a wide array of personal difficulties and mental health issues. She has worked in several mental health care settings to include addiction treatment centers, community mental health care and inpatient psychiatric care. A major focus of her work has been on utilizing a holistic approach for mental health care with an emphasis on self-care.

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Amber Baker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Arkansas with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Fort Smith

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith. 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 Fort Smith, 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 Fort Smith region and in the state of Arkansas. 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith, elsewhere in Sebastian, or in the greater state of Arkansas.

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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith may not take health insurance, some in the state of Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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 Fort Smith online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Fort Smith, Arkansas 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fort Smith 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.

Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 AR, 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 72914 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 Fort Smith counselor?

Before seeing your Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith.

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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith, Arkansas 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.

Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith, Arkansas

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

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

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

72901, 72902, 72903, 72904, 72905, 72906, 72908, 72913, 72914, 72916, 72917, 72918, 72919, 72923

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