Many of us experience mental health concerns over the course of our lifetimes, and therapy can be a beneficial way to get the right tools and support to find balance and healing. When it comes to finding a therapist, Allentown, PA offers a wider variety of choice than many smaller towns and rural areas, but finding the right therapist isn’t necessarily easy, even in more populated areas. 

One of the challenges is that while a city may have multiple clinical settings within a certain mileage, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they can provide therapy that’s needed. For one thing, a particular clinic may not be taking new patients. Another may not have a welcoming environment, or the practitioners may lack a professional attitude. Finally, there are a number of evidence-based approaches when it comes to treating mental illness, and these approaches may be more or less effective depending on what challenge you’re experiencing. A clinic nearby may be a residential treatment center, or not offer the kind of therapy that is best suited to your issues and personality. 

With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, you don’t have to worry about what is available nearby. BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 licensed mental health professionals with expertise in a variety of specializations, from treating addictive behaviors, to healing relationships with family members. By filling out an online questionnaire, BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because a strong therapeutic alliance can be a key indicator of success, if for any reason you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

If you live in the Allentown area and have been thinking about therapy for any reason, whether to navigate life adjustments, manage mood disorders, or build self-awareness, there is no better time to get started. Reach out to BetterHelp for a convenient and effective way to move forward in your personal growth and wellness journey.

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Kenlo McGowan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, NCC, MAC
AddictionsGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with adults over a wide spectrum of issues and life problems and look forward to assisting you in developing goals for your overall success. Much of my experience includes work in preventing or combatting stress, especially career or job-related issues, anxiety, relationship issues, addictions disorders and co-dependency, grief counseling, critical incident debriefing, and working to resolve issues surrounding physical disabilities or trauma. In the past three years much of my work has included helping others deal with or prevent the negative impact of covid-19. I tend to work in a solution-focused framework, helping remove immediate obstacles to allow further work on underlying or longterm issues. I also utilize Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, especially in working through addictions-based problems, to assist in dissolving irrational beliefs that may be holding a client back from fulfillment of goals and dreams. The atmosphere of sessions is one of acceptance and not of judgment for what may have brought a person to talk with me, or what has come before. It takes courage to realize there is a problem requiring assistance and also to believe that the help is available. By tackling that step you have begun your journey. I would be honored to assist you along the way.

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Sheri Durricks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a therapist specializing in mental health, alcohol, and other substance disorders. I have experience with family and couples therapy as well. Additionally, I worked with client’s for over 15 years with a wide variety of challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, domestic abuse, and other life challenges. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I have a non-judgmental approach and believe in demonstrating empathy to my clients. My therapeutic approach is cognitive -behavioral, motivational interviewing and rational emotive counseling. I will tailor therapy according to your needs. Change is always constant. It takes courage to seek help for a more fulfilling a meaningful life. If your ready to step the first step, I am here to support, encourage and empower you. I look forward to working for you.

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Melissa Campbell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): BS,MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Greetings, My name is Melissa and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), licensed in Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience working in mental health, and working as a therapist for the last 15 years. I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD, grief & loss, and stress management. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and humanistic techniques. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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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Lisa Young

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

If there is one thing you and I both know, it's that life can be really hard sometimes. Navigating those times alone can make it so much worse. For the past 15 years, I have been bringing my compassion, kindness, and curiosity to people going through some of the worst that life has to offer to help make life not only bearable, but also meaningful. My clients usually describe me as genuine, caring, and relatable. Though I use a variety of modalities, I tend to work from a trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy stance and utilize a combination of therapeutic intervention, education, and coaching based on the particular need at the time - in regular English, that just means I work to see you as a whole person with changing needs over time and that I am flexible enough to adjust to those changing needs. I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of problems, but especially enjoy working with people with ADHD, depression, and anxiety, as well as with people who are generally doing ok but could just use someone to bounce things off of, help with setting goals, and someone to be accountable to. No matter the circumstance, things can be better. I would love to be there to support you in your growth! As for my personal background, I am a liberal and feminist woman with a wife and 2 young kids. I am a late-diagnosis ADHDer myself and know personally the difficulty that comes with both the condition and the lack of diagnosis. In addition to being busy with family and a therapy business, I also have a tiny farm and an unreasonable number of creative interests because the world is far too inspiring to be any other way!

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Dr. Chris Schmidt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, anxiety, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will work to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Cory Shafer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Also at www.coryianshaferlpc.com and available by call or text to 570-332-2093 I have been in the field since 2005 as a psychological professional, but before that I worked as a paramedic. I think it was there, that when I began to see death and change in our lives, I began an internal journey. After a while I transferred schools and began to study psychology and sociology, therefore leading me to becoming a clinician.. Overtime, as a therapist I have gradually moved closer to an existential philosophy of counseling. My primary areas of focus are in grief, change of life, anxiety, depression and stress reduction with a mindfulness based approach. While I'm primarily an existential therapist, I also consider myself eclectic, borrowing from other schools of thought. I am also client-centered and I believe that most of us already have the ability to be the best that we can be. However, life can be difficult and it is guaranteed that a few times we will be thrown off of our intended course, it is when these storms come that we find ourselves lost and in need of a little help to walk out of whatever we are in.

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Dr. James Supplee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
33 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 30 some years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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Emily Magusiak

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, Anxiety
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a broad range of life challenges, including mental health disorders and trauma. Most of my recent experience is with teens and younger adults. 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. I am currently trained in EMDR and working toward my certification. I am able to offer EMDR sessions to individuals interested in being a part of my certification process.

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Cristina Juisti

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges or even everyday demands? Know that you do not have to struggle alone and are worthy of a life filled with hope and serenity. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience working in community mental health in the Greater Philadelphia area with adults and older adults (55+) experiencing depression, mood swings, and anxiety. Regardless of what symptoms you are experiencing, the key to a more fulfilling life is finding hope for the future. Together we can find this hope! We can accomplish this as I create a safe, judgement-free space for you to explore your current challenges, feelings, and existing strengths. By helping you recognize choices and solutions that you may not have considered before, you will be empowered to approach life's challenges in new ways. Your new approach will result in positive outcomes in your life.

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Sara Martone

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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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How to find a therapist for counseling in Allentown

Finding the best therapist close by in Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown. 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 Allentown, 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 Allentown region and in the state of Pennsylvania. 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 Allentown 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 Allentown area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Allentown 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 Allentown, elsewhere in Lehigh, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Allentown online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Allentown, Pennsylvania 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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown?

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

Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 PA, 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 18104 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 Allentown counselor?

Before seeing your Allentown 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 Allentown.

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 Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown, Pennsylvania 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.

Allentown 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 Allentown, Pennsylvania

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 Allentown.

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

18101, 18102, 18103, 18104, 18105, 18109

Popular cities near Allentown, PA

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