In the county of Rockingham, New Hampshire is a small town called Portsmouth that is a popular seaport and tourist destination. It may be hard to fathom how anyone can be depressed in such a place, but depression is not just a feeling. It is a mental illness that needs treatment. Luckily, Portsmouth has many great counselors who can help. 

When someone has depression, they are more than just sad, they are exhausted, confused, have trouble making decisions, have trouble sleeping or staying asleep, and may even have chronic pain. Set an appointment with one of our Portsmouth counselors to find out what you can do to get better. 

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Kimberly Marsh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and Welcome! If you are here then I commend you in your bravery seeking assistance to help you to navigate things you have obviously found to be challenging. It is important that you know that you will not be alone in this process any longer. I will be here to collaborate with you, to listen and to help you to set goals and work towards meeting your desired outcomes. Being here demonstrates the internal strengths you have and I hope to work with you to continue to develop your strengths and resilience throughout the therapeutic process. I believe in the dignity and worth of all human beings, and approach treatment and therapy from a strengths and resiliency based perspective. I like to collaborate with clients to achieve their ultimate goals and to help them recognize and take advantages of the many strengths that they have developed throughout their lives. I embrace the humanistic approach to treatment and feel that the therapeutic relationship is the single most important factor in therapy. I also work with individuals to challenge their long-standing thinking and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy/approaches, solution focused approaches, motivational interviewing while trying at all times to remain focused on person-centered approached to assist individuals in making long term changes they desire. My therapeutic style involves the use of humor, challenges, bluntness/directness and empathy. While this process is important it should also be fulfilling and pleasurable. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals in therapy and therapeutic settings. Some of my most rewarding experiences have been working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system who struggle with various issues including anger, trauma and substance abuse. I hope to bring the experience I have obtained in these areas to our therapy experience and to contribute to your desired future.

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Julie Mayer Norvilas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

As a rooted relationship therapist, I am passionate and committed to helping my clients explore their growth potential, both in relationships and individually. By nurturing insight and providing consistent support, you will have the opportunity to work at your own pace and work through issues that you feel are preventing you from moving forward. I provide Individual, Couples and Family therapy in addition to Life Coaching. I have extensive experience supporting clients from the full spectrum life cycle. I am passionate about play therapy, parent coaching, relationship therapy as well as individual therapy to help all of my clients identify where they may want help and how to build skills to meet their goals. I was recently named 2021 Best of Perkasie's Counselor of the Year! I use a warm, and curious approach. This is a collaborative process, and we will work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Together we will work on identifying goals that meet your unique needs.

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Jacob Champney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC,MLADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and master licensed alcohol and drug counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a counselor. I’m a believer in a wholistic approach to overall health, and to do so by focusing on the areas of mental, physical and spiritual wellness. Therapy can be an effective way to address the struggles that you may be facing. It can also be a way to hone your focus on life goals. Some of my specialties include the following: Mindfulness based coping skill development, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). Everybody deserves support and connections to create their best life possible. If you are looking to improve the quality of your life and explore the issues that may be holding you back, contact me and we can take the journey together. I look forward to working with you!

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Jamie Haidinger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi my name is Jamie and I'm not your traditional mental health therapist. I have 30 plus years experience providing supportive counseling, crisis intervention and life coaching/encouragement in the setting of acute medical hospitals, nursing homes, and community physical rehab centers. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief/loss and life changes ( empty nest, divorce, retirement ). People experiencing physical /emotional abuse have also found my support helpful. I have a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Salem State University. My Master of Social Work degree is from Boston University. I have a Certificate of Clinical Gerontology from Boston College. I am licensed in MA ( LICSW ) NC ( LCSW ) NH ( LICSW ) ME ( LCSW ). My counseling style is warm, caring and supportive. I meet my people where they are in their discomfort and together we identify the source of pain and we work together to find a solution. My approach is YOU focused. It is gentle and kind. I am a nurturer. I will listen to your story and together we will develop a plan that will lead you to a better place in your life. I will never lead you to a place you are not ready to go . We live in a challenging world. Life is hard. I believe we all deserve to have peace of mind, feel motivated, and experience joy. This is not too much to ask for out of life. With my many years of experience I have helped people lessen their anxiety, improve their mood, move forward with difficult life decisions, improve the quality of their personal/work relationships and heal broken hearts. I would love the opportunity to offer my skills and compassion to help with your journey to a more peaceful, joy filled state of mind.

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Lynn Anne Palmer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Hampshire with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Lisa McCann

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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

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Keeneya Glenn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, families and extensively to Veterans. My treatment style is caring, support and interactive, utilizing skills of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Client Centered Care. I provide evidenced based practice at a relaxed pace to allow clients to connect to emotions that impact life and behaviors. I look forward to working with you on your journey. I am available M-W 12-4 and Friday 12-4.

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LaVerne Kalafor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): EdS, ,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I love to help others deal with life challenges to help them feeling happy, productive and whole again. Using combined a client-centered, humanistic approach, I have had years of experience working with all ages and helped many deal with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD and life transition issues. Positive psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are used to improve self-esteem, motivation and confidence. I include interpersonal hypnotherapy, guided meditation, EFT and mindfulness techniques to deal with anxiety, panic attacks, traumatic experiences, loss and grief. My view of therapy is that it is a joint process, taken at a pace that is comfortable for the person seeking services. Sometimes we just get stuck. Sometimes we just need to learn skills. Sometimes we just need someone outside of a situation to talk to for insight or support. What ever the issue, together we agree upon a plan based upon what is most pressing for you. I offer my knowledge and skills that I think would be most helpful to address your concerns, learn ways to make changes you want to make happen and move forward with life! I am here for you so take that first step and get in touch with me. I will be happy to answer you!

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Angela Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a super geeky counselor from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Counseling is my career because I love collaborating with my clients while they improve their daily lives and find their peace. The focus in my sessions is using positive psychology, specifically solution focused methods. No matter the current situation, we can work together to find bright spots of success to build on. We will work together to get around those roadblocks to success and find a better path. I have a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Tulsa and certifications as a Licensed Professional Counselor and School Counselor in the state of Oklahoma. I also have a sizable collection of Doctor Who and Star Wars swag.

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Dr. James (Jimmy) Clifton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NH
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,Master of Science in Psychology,Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Counseling
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Dr. James W. Clifton. I am licensed in the State of Indiana as a Mental Health Counselor and as a Clinical Social Worker. I am also licensed in Idaho (LCPC), Vermont (LCMHC), Utah (CMHC), New Mexico (PCMHC), New Hampshire as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master of Science in Psychology from California Coast University, a PhD from Bethany Divinity College and Seminary where I studied various therapeutic modalities, and a Doctor of Arts in Theology and Chaplaincy from JJBIHL. I teach clients how to change their thinking, be responsible for their feelings, and make better choices. I look forward to working with you. I focus on the present and behaviors and not on the past and feelings. I do not work with anyone under the age of 25 or relationship issues, or family issues, or addiction issues of any kind.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Portsmouth

Finding the best therapist close by in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth. 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 Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth region and in the state of New Hampshire. 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, elsewhere in Rockingham, or in the greater state of New Hampshire.

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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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 Portsmouth online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Portsmouth, New Hampshire 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?

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

Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 NH, 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 03801 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 Portsmouth counselor?

Before seeing your Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth.

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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, New Hampshire 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.

Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, New Hampshire

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 Portsmouth.

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

03801, 03802, 03803, 03804

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