Photo of Agnieszka Wolska, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Agnieszka Wolska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, CHT, RMFT, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2G
I use Hakomi Mindfulness-based Body-Psychotherapy, Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, and Internal Family Systems-informed approaches to therapy and counselling.
We all carry multiple stories about our selves, our lives, and our experiences. There are parts in our stories that are sometimes hidden from our awareness. It is in the calm noticing, re-discovery, and re-telling of our stories that we can find and connect with parts of ourselves that may need healing, and also parts of ourselves that are insightful, strong, and brilliant even in the midst of hardship and darkness. Through facilitating, witnessing, and holding space together, we can engage in our personal work of healing. I look forward to connecting with you.
I use Hakomi Mindfulness-based Body-Psychotherapy, Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, and Internal Family Systems-informed approaches to therapy and counselling.
We all carry multiple stories about our selves, our lives, and our experiences. There are parts in our stories that are sometimes hidden from our awareness. It is in the calm noticing, re-discovery, and re-telling of our stories that we can find and connect with parts of ourselves that may need healing, and also parts of ourselves that are insightful, strong, and brilliant even in the midst of hardship and darkness. Through facilitating, witnessing, and holding space together, we can engage in our personal work of healing. I look forward to connecting with you.
(587) 600-1131 View (587) 600-1131
Photo of Paloma Scott, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Paloma Scott
Psychologist, MA, in, Psych
Verified Verified
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2H
Scott is a registered Psychologist in Alberta and a provider with Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and Workers Compensation Board (WCB).
Mrs. Scott has twenty three years of experience in providing psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families from different backgrounds with Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disorder, giftedness. Mrs. Scott helps clients with emotional self-regulation, anger management, social skills, defiance, social anxiety, separation, grieving, and parenting skills. Her goal is to genuinely support people to develop skills, build resilience and excel their lives towards growth, healing, plenitude and success.
Scott is a registered Psychologist in Alberta and a provider with Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and Workers Compensation Board (WCB).
Mrs. Scott has twenty three years of experience in providing psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families from different backgrounds with Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disorder, giftedness. Mrs. Scott helps clients with emotional self-regulation, anger management, social skills, defiance, social anxiety, separation, grieving, and parenting skills. Her goal is to genuinely support people to develop skills, build resilience and excel their lives towards growth, healing, plenitude and success.
(587) 844-0549 View (587) 844-0549
Photo of Susan Shores Psychological Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Susan Shores Psychological Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2H
We live amidst great challenges & complexity. More and more people are reaching out for the first time. A QUIET space awaits you. I'm told I have a FIERCE spirit & a GENTLE presence. I am both direct & compassionate. I believe in the inherent values & rights of ALL regardless of who you are; and where you've travelled. YOU are the EXPERT in your LIFE! I bring 25+ years of experience specializing in mental health, neuro-diversity, concussion, trauma, life transitions, professional and family stressors, relationships & more. Together we can navigate a clearer and more sustainable path to joy, meaning, purpose, and significant change.
We live amidst great challenges & complexity. More and more people are reaching out for the first time. A QUIET space awaits you. I'm told I have a FIERCE spirit & a GENTLE presence. I am both direct & compassionate. I believe in the inherent values & rights of ALL regardless of who you are; and where you've travelled. YOU are the EXPERT in your LIFE! I bring 25+ years of experience specializing in mental health, neuro-diversity, concussion, trauma, life transitions, professional and family stressors, relationships & more. Together we can navigate a clearer and more sustainable path to joy, meaning, purpose, and significant change.
(587) 802-3791 View (587) 802-3791
Photo of Sheryl Field, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Sheryl Field
Psychologist, MACP, BN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2C
Following an extensive and rewarding career as a registered nurse, with experience in critical care, cardiology, and family medicine, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how I can better help others who are in need of support. I have worked alongside adult individuals who have endured developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, addiction, and life transitions including relationship and parenting support. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they grow and expand in self-awareness, self-determination, compassion for themselves, and overall confidence to live their best life.
Following an extensive and rewarding career as a registered nurse, with experience in critical care, cardiology, and family medicine, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how I can better help others who are in need of support. I have worked alongside adult individuals who have endured developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, addiction, and life transitions including relationship and parenting support. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they grow and expand in self-awareness, self-determination, compassion for themselves, and overall confidence to live their best life.
(587) 412-5144 View (587) 412-5144
Photo of Jennifer Rioux, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Jennifer Rioux
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T3M
My professional experience in community centres, addiction treatment centres & medical facilities addressing various addictions, mental health, personal, and family relational concerns has been a valuable part of my professional journey and I bring this expertise to my private practice.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
My professional experience in community centres, addiction treatment centres & medical facilities addressing various addictions, mental health, personal, and family relational concerns has been a valuable part of my professional journey and I bring this expertise to my private practice.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(587) 850-2937 View (587) 850-2937
Photo of Georginia Nwoke, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Georginia Nwoke
Psychologist, MSc, PGCE, GCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2H
I walk side by side with you in your healing journey. I am a registered Psychologist in Alberta, specializing in Addictions and Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Immigration / Refugee, FASD, ADHD, Relationships, Abandonment, Borderline, Adult children from Addictions backgrounds, Anxiety, Anger, Depression, and Parenting. I have over 12 years experience in addictions and mental health ;and a global 12years experience working in education with children, teenagers and adults. I am also passionate about raising a healthy family. I am a published author [110 Nuggets for Excellent Parenting] and a motivational speaker.
I walk side by side with you in your healing journey. I am a registered Psychologist in Alberta, specializing in Addictions and Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Immigration / Refugee, FASD, ADHD, Relationships, Abandonment, Borderline, Adult children from Addictions backgrounds, Anxiety, Anger, Depression, and Parenting. I have over 12 years experience in addictions and mental health ;and a global 12years experience working in education with children, teenagers and adults. I am also passionate about raising a healthy family. I am a published author [110 Nuggets for Excellent Parenting] and a motivational speaker.
(587) 804-2626 View (587) 804-2626
Photo of Adrienne Krause, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Adrienne Krause
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2B
Hello! It’s so great to see you. I’m Adrienne (she/her). I have a keen interest in working with individuals and couples, from teens to adults, and from all walks of life, who may be struggling with identity, trauma, life transitions, family/relationship issues, neurodivergence, and general issues related to mental health and well-being. My goal is to help empower you to live a full and meaningful life, and to find out what that means for you.
Hello! It’s so great to see you. I’m Adrienne (she/her). I have a keen interest in working with individuals and couples, from teens to adults, and from all walks of life, who may be struggling with identity, trauma, life transitions, family/relationship issues, neurodivergence, and general issues related to mental health and well-being. My goal is to help empower you to live a full and meaningful life, and to find out what that means for you.
(587) 806-4461 View (587) 806-4461
Photo of Lesley Lacny, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Lesley Lacny
Psychologist, MA, CPsych, RPsych, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2A  (Online Only)
We can make change in our lives by understanding why we feel the way we do and by being in tune with who we are. Once we get to know ourselves better, we have the power to grow and overcome barriers. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or anger, or if you are encountering family challenges, relationship problems, or addictions, I can help you make the change you are looking for in a safe, open and nurturing environment.
We can make change in our lives by understanding why we feel the way we do and by being in tune with who we are. Once we get to know ourselves better, we have the power to grow and overcome barriers. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or anger, or if you are encountering family challenges, relationship problems, or addictions, I can help you make the change you are looking for in a safe, open and nurturing environment.
(647) 695-3577 View (647) 695-3577
Photo of Tina Vanderworp (Individual Psychotherapy And Couples Counselling), Counsellor in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Tina Vanderworp (Individual Psychotherapy And Couples Counselling)
Counsellor, MPS, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2A
I am a certified psychotherapist and counsellor (CCC) and I specialize in individual and couples counselling. I also offer supervision to therapists. I deeply enjoy working with adults and teens and I have more than 12 years experience in the field. I specialize in crisis interventions, couples counselling, family wellness, teens in crisis, and parenting in multicultural organizations. I use inner child work - a transformative approach which helps one identify root causes and gain deep understanding and compassion for oneself. I am deeply touched to have witnessed profound shifts in people's lives and in their relationships.
I am a certified psychotherapist and counsellor (CCC) and I specialize in individual and couples counselling. I also offer supervision to therapists. I deeply enjoy working with adults and teens and I have more than 12 years experience in the field. I specialize in crisis interventions, couples counselling, family wellness, teens in crisis, and parenting in multicultural organizations. I use inner child work - a transformative approach which helps one identify root causes and gain deep understanding and compassion for oneself. I am deeply touched to have witnessed profound shifts in people's lives and in their relationships.
(587) 850-3258 View (587) 850-3258
Photo of Brianna Matchett, Counsellor in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Brianna Matchett
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2J
I have been a counselling therapist for over half a decade, grew up in a rural community with a large family and now live in Calgary with my husband of seven years and two children.
My goal in therapy is to cultivate a space where you will feel genuinely heard and understood. I offer a comfortable space marked by empathy and acceptance, in which anyone is welcomed to voice issues and concerns. I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, couples, and families and bring a gentle and empathetic presence to each client session. I understand that you may desire to integrate spirituality into your therapy, and am willing to use my Christian faith, and other spiritual resources to guide you through difficulty and challenge.
I have been a counselling therapist for over half a decade, grew up in a rural community with a large family and now live in Calgary with my husband of seven years and two children.
My goal in therapy is to cultivate a space where you will feel genuinely heard and understood. I offer a comfortable space marked by empathy and acceptance, in which anyone is welcomed to voice issues and concerns. I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, couples, and families and bring a gentle and empathetic presence to each client session. I understand that you may desire to integrate spirituality into your therapy, and am willing to use my Christian faith, and other spiritual resources to guide you through difficulty and challenge.
(587) 804-3645 View (587) 804-3645
Photo of Sheryl Singh, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Sheryl Singh
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2Z
Hello! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with several years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I am committed to providing a non-judgemental safe space, in which clients feel empowered to make the positive changes needed to live healthy fulfilled lives.
Hello! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with several years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I am committed to providing a non-judgemental safe space, in which clients feel empowered to make the positive changes needed to live healthy fulfilled lives.
(587) 327-9850 View (587) 327-9850
Photo of Michele Edwards Holistic Therapies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Michele Edwards Holistic Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2Z
Do you feel trapped on your journey of healing and self-discovery, weighed down by the burden of past traumas? Finding the inner strength to move forward can be a challenging and emotional battle. You long to break free from the pain of your past, searching for the confidence, self-acceptance, and personal power that will ignite your transformation. That's where I come in. My mission is to guide women like you through this transformative journey of healing.
Do you feel trapped on your journey of healing and self-discovery, weighed down by the burden of past traumas? Finding the inner strength to move forward can be a challenging and emotional battle. You long to break free from the pain of your past, searching for the confidence, self-acceptance, and personal power that will ignite your transformation. That's where I come in. My mission is to guide women like you through this transformative journey of healing.
(587) 415-6795 View (587) 415-6795
Photo of Patricia Michelle Miller, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Patricia Michelle Miller
Psychologist, MSW, MA, Psych, PhD, Mediato
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2J
I work within a client-centered approach that provides a respectful and safe relationship in order to help people, self-determine what they need in order to resolve issues or find acceptance in what they cannot change.
I work within a client-centered approach that provides a respectful and safe relationship in order to help people, self-determine what they need in order to resolve issues or find acceptance in what they cannot change.
(855) 767-9692 View (855) 767-9692
Photo of Eva Stordy, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Eva Stordy
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2H
With several different therapies and techniques in my toolbox, and a comfortable, secure office environment, my goal is to tailor my approach to your needs. My therapy style most often has a staged approach (a beginning, middle and an end). I rely on your feedback and measure our progress, to make sure there’s improvement and we're making the most of your time. I ensure clients leave my office feeling better and more resourced than when they first arrived. I work well with clients who are experiencing burnout, increased stress and anxiety responses, depressive symptoms, grief and loss, trauma, work challenges and life change.
With several different therapies and techniques in my toolbox, and a comfortable, secure office environment, my goal is to tailor my approach to your needs. My therapy style most often has a staged approach (a beginning, middle and an end). I rely on your feedback and measure our progress, to make sure there’s improvement and we're making the most of your time. I ensure clients leave my office feeling better and more resourced than when they first arrived. I work well with clients who are experiencing burnout, increased stress and anxiety responses, depressive symptoms, grief and loss, trauma, work challenges and life change.
(587) 713-8155 View (587) 713-8155
Photo of Laura Hall, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Laura Hall
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2G
Take a moment, 30 seconds will do. Breathe in slowly, hold it there for a second, slowly let your breath out. Repeat if you wish.Imagine being able to quiet the mind of the past, present and future echoes. Perhaps these thoughts have been causing you distress in your life. Becoming vulnerable to these thoughts can cause additional hardships, and becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable is difficult. However, the good news is that you already possess the skills needed to address these issues. During our time together, I will help you to uncover and practice these skills in order to live a more clear headed and focused life.
Take a moment, 30 seconds will do. Breathe in slowly, hold it there for a second, slowly let your breath out. Repeat if you wish.Imagine being able to quiet the mind of the past, present and future echoes. Perhaps these thoughts have been causing you distress in your life. Becoming vulnerable to these thoughts can cause additional hardships, and becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable is difficult. However, the good news is that you already possess the skills needed to address these issues. During our time together, I will help you to uncover and practice these skills in order to live a more clear headed and focused life.
(587) 847-3297 x703 View (587) 847-3297 x703
Photo of Reem Khawar, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Reem Khawar
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2X
Life can often resemble a complex puzzle, with both challenging and stable moments. At times, it may feel like we're tackling this puzzle all alone. That's where the power of therapy comes in – think of it as having a helpful teammate on your journey to feeling better. Even if it doesn't seem obvious, the key to finding balance and contentment is already within you. My role is to guide you in unlocking that inner potential by shedding light on your thoughts and emotions. This is the first step toward creating a more harmonious and fulfilling life.
Life can often resemble a complex puzzle, with both challenging and stable moments. At times, it may feel like we're tackling this puzzle all alone. That's where the power of therapy comes in – think of it as having a helpful teammate on your journey to feeling better. Even if it doesn't seem obvious, the key to finding balance and contentment is already within you. My role is to guide you in unlocking that inner potential by shedding light on your thoughts and emotions. This is the first step toward creating a more harmonious and fulfilling life.
(825) 435-1033 View (825) 435-1033
Photo of Martina Vaneckova, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Martina Vaneckova
Psychologist, MC, CYCC, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2X
Welcome to Growth and Healing Psychology! Therapy can feel intimidating and challenging to start, be it for personal development or mental health and wellbeing. This is especially true when you already feel low in energy and motivation. You might feel overwhelmed by all of your responsibilities which can negatively impact your relationships and leave you feeling guilty or ashamed. This can become one vicious cycle. If you can relate to any of this and are tired of feeling this way, it is time to take steps to do things differently. Reach out to set up a free initial phone call to see how we can work together.
Welcome to Growth and Healing Psychology! Therapy can feel intimidating and challenging to start, be it for personal development or mental health and wellbeing. This is especially true when you already feel low in energy and motivation. You might feel overwhelmed by all of your responsibilities which can negatively impact your relationships and leave you feeling guilty or ashamed. This can become one vicious cycle. If you can relate to any of this and are tired of feeling this way, it is time to take steps to do things differently. Reach out to set up a free initial phone call to see how we can work together.
(825) 254-7681 View (825) 254-7681
Photo of Master’s Counselling Services, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Master’s Counselling Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2H
At Master's Counnseling, our counsellors bring genuine compassion and care to their practice, in order to help you flourish, in whatever stage of life you find yourself in. For over 20 years, the Masters Counselling team has created a safe place for you to process your thoughts, explore your feelings and release you into your full potential.
At Master's Counnseling, our counsellors bring genuine compassion and care to their practice, in order to help you flourish, in whatever stage of life you find yourself in. For over 20 years, the Masters Counselling team has created a safe place for you to process your thoughts, explore your feelings and release you into your full potential.
(587) 841-0996 View (587) 841-0996
Photo of Centre of the HeART Art & Somatic Therapy, Art Therapist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Centre of the HeART Art & Somatic Therapy
Art Therapist, RCAT, RTC, CT, DKATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2J
Has anxiety and depression become amplified for you with issues from the past resurfacing? Maybe you have been to counselling before but would like to try a more holistic approach; one that will teach you the tools needed to overcome feelings of sadness, dread and uncertainty? Often times, experiences buried from childhood and the past resurface as adults which can greatly affect the way we feel and our sense of purpose in the world. It isn’t until things get so uncomfortable, that we feel the only option available is to make a change. This isn’t always easy but reaching out for support, is the first and most important step.
Has anxiety and depression become amplified for you with issues from the past resurfacing? Maybe you have been to counselling before but would like to try a more holistic approach; one that will teach you the tools needed to overcome feelings of sadness, dread and uncertainty? Often times, experiences buried from childhood and the past resurface as adults which can greatly affect the way we feel and our sense of purpose in the world. It isn’t until things get so uncomfortable, that we feel the only option available is to make a change. This isn’t always easy but reaching out for support, is the first and most important step.
(587) 805-3184 View (587) 805-3184
Photo of Complete Psychological Services, Psychologist in Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB
Complete Psychological Services
Psychologist, RPsych, CPT, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeast Calgary, Calgary, AB T2C
Complete Psychology offers specialized assessments and counselling treatments serving Calgary's southeast communities. Complete Psychology's therapists are experts in areas such as; Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Executive Functioning, Gender Spectrum, Couples/Marriage, Stress, Learning Disabilities, Separation and Divorce, Motor Vehicle Impact Assessments and more. With expertise in Mental Health for individuals, couples, children/youth, and families. Visit our website for details about all areas of treatment offered and our team.
Complete Psychology offers specialized assessments and counselling treatments serving Calgary's southeast communities. Complete Psychology's therapists are experts in areas such as; Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Executive Functioning, Gender Spectrum, Couples/Marriage, Stress, Learning Disabilities, Separation and Divorce, Motor Vehicle Impact Assessments and more. With expertise in Mental Health for individuals, couples, children/youth, and families. Visit our website for details about all areas of treatment offered and our team.
(587) 207-5960 View (587) 207-5960

See more therapy options for Southeast Calgary, Calgary

Family Therapy Counsellors

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.