Photo of Natalia Bergman, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Natalia Bergman
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I counsel children, families, and couples, focusing on children's feelings and improving family dynamics.
Children experience the world differently. Adults can talk; children prefer to play. Play therapy allows freedom and growth. The play experience takes children's focus off negative self-talk and promotes positive self-awareness. Play therapy helps to explore emotions, work through challenges, and nurtures mastery and resilience. As a Registered Play Therapist with advanced training in play therapy, I can help you find a way to connect with your child. A fully equipped playroom with special toys allows children to fully express their feelings, and supports their growth and changes.
I counsel children, families, and couples, focusing on children's feelings and improving family dynamics.
Children experience the world differently. Adults can talk; children prefer to play. Play therapy allows freedom and growth. The play experience takes children's focus off negative self-talk and promotes positive self-awareness. Play therapy helps to explore emotions, work through challenges, and nurtures mastery and resilience. As a Registered Play Therapist with advanced training in play therapy, I can help you find a way to connect with your child. A fully equipped playroom with special toys allows children to fully express their feelings, and supports their growth and changes.
(587) 803-3312 View (587) 803-3312
Photo of Phuong An, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Phuong An
Psychologist, BSN, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B
I have over 23 years of experience providing assessments and psychotherapy; first as a psychiatric nurse, then as a family counsellor and in 2012 as a psychologist in private practice.
According to the American Psychological Association, “Psychologists help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty.
I have over 23 years of experience providing assessments and psychotherapy; first as a psychiatric nurse, then as a family counsellor and in 2012 as a psychologist in private practice.
According to the American Psychological Association, “Psychologists help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty.
(825) 250-3626 View (825) 250-3626
Photo of Fazilah Shariff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Fazilah Shariff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, MHA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2L
I specialize in family therapy, prioritizing the mental health of children and adolescents.
Amidst the dynamic journey of parenthood, where each day unfolds with fresh trials and victories, I stand as your unwavering companion. Recognizing your aspiration for a harmonious and thriving family life, I am dedicated to providing you with the resources and assistance essential for enduring positive change. Engaging in family therapy can serve as a cornerstone for fostering a resilient and connected family unit. There exist countless measures parents can embrace to elevate their child's overall well-being. Perhaps you are also in pursuit of empowering your child with strategies to navigate the challenges that life presents.
I specialize in family therapy, prioritizing the mental health of children and adolescents.
Amidst the dynamic journey of parenthood, where each day unfolds with fresh trials and victories, I stand as your unwavering companion. Recognizing your aspiration for a harmonious and thriving family life, I am dedicated to providing you with the resources and assistance essential for enduring positive change. Engaging in family therapy can serve as a cornerstone for fostering a resilient and connected family unit. There exist countless measures parents can embrace to elevate their child's overall well-being. Perhaps you are also in pursuit of empowering your child with strategies to navigate the challenges that life presents.
(825) 250-4878 View (825) 250-4878
Photo of Solace Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Solace Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2M
I specialize in relationship counselling (couple and family), parenting support, trauma counselling (EMDR Therapy), play and art-based counselling with children in addition to working with adolescents, stress, anxiety and other mental health issues.
My goal is to connect with you in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I work collaboratively with my clients towards finding relief and life changing solutions, recognizing that people have power and strength within them. Whether it's problematic relationships, parenting support, stress, family dynamics, mental health issues or trauma that is impacting your life, I have seen over and over that change can happen. I offer a warm approach to therapy and welcome any struggle, small or large. Although I work with a variety of adult clients I am known for easily connecting with children and adolescents.
I specialize in relationship counselling (couple and family), parenting support, trauma counselling (EMDR Therapy), play and art-based counselling with children in addition to working with adolescents, stress, anxiety and other mental health issues.
My goal is to connect with you in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I work collaboratively with my clients towards finding relief and life changing solutions, recognizing that people have power and strength within them. Whether it's problematic relationships, parenting support, stress, family dynamics, mental health issues or trauma that is impacting your life, I have seen over and over that change can happen. I offer a warm approach to therapy and welcome any struggle, small or large. Although I work with a variety of adult clients I am known for easily connecting with children and adolescents.
(825) 445-0050 View (825) 445-0050
Photo of Bernadene Weskin, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Bernadene Weskin
Psychologist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
Parenting can be the most stressful role you will ever have and I am here to support you and your family to become stronger and overcome life's hurdles together. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have comprehensive training in play therapy and I understand that building strong, supportive relationships will mean less time in therapy. Whether it is trauma, anxiety, depression, school refusal, anger issues, self-esteem issues, a learning or behavioral diagnosis, or many other presenting concerns, I can achieve results because children look forward to coming to their sessions.
Parenting can be the most stressful role you will ever have and I am here to support you and your family to become stronger and overcome life's hurdles together. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have comprehensive training in play therapy and I understand that building strong, supportive relationships will mean less time in therapy. Whether it is trauma, anxiety, depression, school refusal, anger issues, self-esteem issues, a learning or behavioral diagnosis, or many other presenting concerns, I can achieve results because children look forward to coming to their sessions.
(587) 800-1606 View (587) 800-1606
Photo of Kyla Vieweger (She Her), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Kyla Vieweger (She Her)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, CPT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
All children and all family structures are welcomed and honoured.
Specialized child and adolescent therapy services. When your child is facing a challenging life event or is struggling with difficult emotions or behaviours, caregivers can feel overwhelmed and unsure. Maybe you feel judged, or even judge yourself. You want to find a skilled clinician who can respond effectively to your child's specific needs and help you rediscover your confidence as a caregiver. Unlike a generalist counsellor, my therapeutic services are tailored to the distinct developmental needs of children and teens. I blend expressive and evidence-based treatment approaches. Non-judgmental caregiver support is also offered.
All children and all family structures are welcomed and honoured.
Specialized child and adolescent therapy services. When your child is facing a challenging life event or is struggling with difficult emotions or behaviours, caregivers can feel overwhelmed and unsure. Maybe you feel judged, or even judge yourself. You want to find a skilled clinician who can respond effectively to your child's specific needs and help you rediscover your confidence as a caregiver. Unlike a generalist counsellor, my therapeutic services are tailored to the distinct developmental needs of children and teens. I blend expressive and evidence-based treatment approaches. Non-judgmental caregiver support is also offered.
(587) 870-6472 View (587) 870-6472
Photo of Emily Gauthier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Emily Gauthier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2M
Starting therapy is often the hardest part, my priority will be to make it a valuable experience for you and/or your family.
I am Emily. I am a mental health therapist specializing in trauma, attachment, grief & loss, and child development. I provide individual and relationship focused psychological services with children, youth & adults. My clinical work with kiddos includes a fun and inviting space to promote creative expression, emotional awareness, self regulation/co-regulation, mindfulness, healing and growth. I enjoy working with caregivers in parent counselling to help strengthen responsive parenting approaches, along with integrating somatic psychotherapy practices focused on stress management and strengthening parent capacity and confidence.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part, my priority will be to make it a valuable experience for you and/or your family.
I am Emily. I am a mental health therapist specializing in trauma, attachment, grief & loss, and child development. I provide individual and relationship focused psychological services with children, youth & adults. My clinical work with kiddos includes a fun and inviting space to promote creative expression, emotional awareness, self regulation/co-regulation, mindfulness, healing and growth. I enjoy working with caregivers in parent counselling to help strengthen responsive parenting approaches, along with integrating somatic psychotherapy practices focused on stress management and strengthening parent capacity and confidence.
View
Building Bridges Counselling Services
Counsellor, BA, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3B
At Building Bridges Counselling Services we support clients in managing issues that impact personal and relational well-being. Our counsellors have a vast range of experiences which inform their therapeutic approaches. Building Bridges offers Family, Couples, Individual, and Youth counselling. In addition to counselling services, psycho-educational assessments are also available. Please call 587-318-0018 or check out our website www.buildingbridgescounselling.ca for more information about our assessments and counselling services. Due to current circumstances, we are offering multiple ways to meet for Coffee and Chats(see website)
At Building Bridges Counselling Services we support clients in managing issues that impact personal and relational well-being. Our counsellors have a vast range of experiences which inform their therapeutic approaches. Building Bridges offers Family, Couples, Individual, and Youth counselling. In addition to counselling services, psycho-educational assessments are also available. Please call 587-318-0018 or check out our website www.buildingbridgescounselling.ca for more information about our assessments and counselling services. Due to current circumstances, we are offering multiple ways to meet for Coffee and Chats(see website)
(587) 850-3124 View (587) 850-3124
Photo of Brisa Ochoa, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Brisa Ochoa
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3N
I integrate various approaches to best meet individual, couples and family needs.
Have you experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events that have caused you personal harm and impacted your relationships? Are you tired of fighting to hold it together on the outside and suffering on the inside? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or numb from just thinking about all that is on your plate. Maybe it seems like the slightest things trigger big feelings, worries and reactions. If this sounds anything like you, please know there is hope! Don't wait any longer to reach out for help . I am ready to help you experience relief from distress, find solutions and move towards the life you want to live.
I integrate various approaches to best meet individual, couples and family needs.
Have you experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events that have caused you personal harm and impacted your relationships? Are you tired of fighting to hold it together on the outside and suffering on the inside? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or numb from just thinking about all that is on your plate. Maybe it seems like the slightest things trigger big feelings, worries and reactions. If this sounds anything like you, please know there is hope! Don't wait any longer to reach out for help . I am ready to help you experience relief from distress, find solutions and move towards the life you want to live.
(587) 400-9058 View (587) 400-9058
Photo of Crystal Popke, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Crystal Popke
Psychologist, RPsych, MACP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3R
Areas of focus include attachment, trauma, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family relationships, and identity.
I am passionate about supporting and empowering children, adolescents, parents and families in overcoming obstacles and discovering their full potential. I work from a collaborative framework, and believe that counselling works best when client and therapist are working together to address concerns and reach goals. I have built my practice around strengths-based, integrative modalities including play therapy, expressive arts, sandplay, Polyvagal theory, CBT, somatic and mindfulness based practices.
Areas of focus include attachment, trauma, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family relationships, and identity.
I am passionate about supporting and empowering children, adolescents, parents and families in overcoming obstacles and discovering their full potential. I work from a collaborative framework, and believe that counselling works best when client and therapist are working together to address concerns and reach goals. I have built my practice around strengths-based, integrative modalities including play therapy, expressive arts, sandplay, Polyvagal theory, CBT, somatic and mindfulness based practices.
(587) 415-5022 View (587) 415-5022
Photo of Nadia Ivanchikov, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Nadia Ivanchikov
Counsellor, MACP, M Ed, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1X
Are you a parent of a neurodiverse child seeking support? Do you feel frustrated by cultural shock, adapting to a new reality, or navigating family or workplace turmoil? Are depression, anxiety, mood swings, or anger challenges on your plate? Is your child struggling socially or academically? Are you? Do you crave being heard, accepted, and supported? Are you ready to maximize your strengths while learning to accommodate the areas of need? Would you like to master the dance of interpersonal communication using your emotions as a compass in navigating your relationships? Will you explore your past and present to design your future?
Are you a parent of a neurodiverse child seeking support? Do you feel frustrated by cultural shock, adapting to a new reality, or navigating family or workplace turmoil? Are depression, anxiety, mood swings, or anger challenges on your plate? Is your child struggling socially or academically? Are you? Do you crave being heard, accepted, and supported? Are you ready to maximize your strengths while learning to accommodate the areas of need? Would you like to master the dance of interpersonal communication using your emotions as a compass in navigating your relationships? Will you explore your past and present to design your future?
(587) 208-6947 View (587) 208-6947
Photo of Restless Minds Counselling, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Restless Minds Counselling
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MEd , ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2G
My name is Eric Burgess and I hold an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist (P3225). I have 15+ years of experience providing counselling supports to children, youth and adults with a variety of presenting issues including: Depression, Anxiety, stress, at-risk behaviours, ADHD, Autism, school issues, trauma, 2SLBGTQ+, multicultural issues and Learning Disabilities. I am an approved service provider for Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (FSCD). I have a special interest in providing counselling services to NEURODIVERSE populations. I do not provide assessment services at this time.
My name is Eric Burgess and I hold an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist (P3225). I have 15+ years of experience providing counselling supports to children, youth and adults with a variety of presenting issues including: Depression, Anxiety, stress, at-risk behaviours, ADHD, Autism, school issues, trauma, 2SLBGTQ+, multicultural issues and Learning Disabilities. I am an approved service provider for Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (FSCD). I have a special interest in providing counselling services to NEURODIVERSE populations. I do not provide assessment services at this time.
(587) 600-8929 View (587) 600-8929
Photo of Navjoyt K Mann, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Navjoyt K Mann
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
Hello! My name is Navjoyt Mann but I go by Nav, and it's a pleasure to introduce myself to this wonderful community. Over the last decade, my professional journey has been devoted to working closely with children, where I've had the privilege of witnessing their growth and development. With a Masters in Counselling Psychology and my current role as a provisional psychologist, I'm deeply passionate about understanding the intricacies of the human mind and emotions. My experiences have been incredibly rewarding, and they've deepened my passion for understanding the complexities of human behaviour and the power of counselling.
Hello! My name is Navjoyt Mann but I go by Nav, and it's a pleasure to introduce myself to this wonderful community. Over the last decade, my professional journey has been devoted to working closely with children, where I've had the privilege of witnessing their growth and development. With a Masters in Counselling Psychology and my current role as a provisional psychologist, I'm deeply passionate about understanding the intricacies of the human mind and emotions. My experiences have been incredibly rewarding, and they've deepened my passion for understanding the complexities of human behaviour and the power of counselling.
(825) 360-0176 View (825) 360-0176
Photo of Vicki Park, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Vicki Park
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BEd/BPE, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3K
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for support in processing our experiences, thoughts, and emotions, and I am honored by the opportunity to walk through this journey with you, reflecting and guiding as appropriate. I believe in a collaborative and strength-based approach based on client's values and goals. Working primarily with adults and teens, I use a variety of modalities including Accelerated Resolution Therapy to address issues such as trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and stress management. Using Gottman approaches I also support couples in their journey in the growth, and often healing, of their relationship.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for support in processing our experiences, thoughts, and emotions, and I am honored by the opportunity to walk through this journey with you, reflecting and guiding as appropriate. I believe in a collaborative and strength-based approach based on client's values and goals. Working primarily with adults and teens, I use a variety of modalities including Accelerated Resolution Therapy to address issues such as trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and stress management. Using Gottman approaches I also support couples in their journey in the growth, and often healing, of their relationship.
(587) 327-9385 View (587) 327-9385
Photo of Amai (Emilie) Luc, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Amai (Emilie) Luc
Psychologist, MC:AT, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Taking the first step toward your wellness can feel overwhelming. Welcome. I help people who are feeling the effects of stress and trauma (from childhood or more recent events) and are interested in processing these experiences in a warm, supportive space. Memories can sometimes get stuck in our bodies and may result in mental, physical, and emotional stress. Together, we can work on identifying and processing these stressors, developing healthy ways of expressing and releasing emotions, and practice skills for lifelong change.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Taking the first step toward your wellness can feel overwhelming. Welcome. I help people who are feeling the effects of stress and trauma (from childhood or more recent events) and are interested in processing these experiences in a warm, supportive space. Memories can sometimes get stuck in our bodies and may result in mental, physical, and emotional stress. Together, we can work on identifying and processing these stressors, developing healthy ways of expressing and releasing emotions, and practice skills for lifelong change.
(587) 507-4626 View (587) 507-4626
Photo of Core Psychology , Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Core Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
Are you craving a life you don't need a vacation from? We don't exist in isolation. Daily, we navigate relationships, careers, finances, parenting an anxious child or a struggling teen, aging, significant life transitions, celebrations, successes, and sometimes huge losses. You may have lost a job, partner, loved one, or the ability to function in ways you used to function so easily. You are used to recovering quickly or knowing how to best provide support, and yet find yourself at a loss, anxious, overwhelmed or discouraged. It's all part of being human. Though sometimes it feels like more than we can take.
Are you craving a life you don't need a vacation from? We don't exist in isolation. Daily, we navigate relationships, careers, finances, parenting an anxious child or a struggling teen, aging, significant life transitions, celebrations, successes, and sometimes huge losses. You may have lost a job, partner, loved one, or the ability to function in ways you used to function so easily. You are used to recovering quickly or knowing how to best provide support, and yet find yourself at a loss, anxious, overwhelmed or discouraged. It's all part of being human. Though sometimes it feels like more than we can take.
(403) 488-8912 View (403) 488-8912
Photo of Expressive Child Therapies, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Expressive Child Therapies
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC, SPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3C
I believe in destigmatizing mental health issues, and building family's resilience.
Parenting is the most invested relationship one can partake in. There are many tasks and challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults. Life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to feel safe and function successfully. This is when it becomes key to incorporate "it takes a whole community to raise a child", and I believe that people do the best they can with what they know. I have dedicated 23 years to helping children express their needs. And I can help increase your "knowing" so that we can enrich your child's relationships and increase their tolerance for the difficult stuff
I believe in destigmatizing mental health issues, and building family's resilience.
Parenting is the most invested relationship one can partake in. There are many tasks and challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults. Life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to feel safe and function successfully. This is when it becomes key to incorporate "it takes a whole community to raise a child", and I believe that people do the best they can with what they know. I have dedicated 23 years to helping children express their needs. And I can help increase your "knowing" so that we can enrich your child's relationships and increase their tolerance for the difficult stuff
(825) 251-5344 View (825) 251-5344
Photo of Viewpoint Calgary Psychological Services, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Viewpoint Calgary Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N
Welcome to Viewpoint Calgary Psychological Services. Our goal is to promote your psychological well being by offering hope, support, and effective counselling services. Discover how our therapists can support you in achieving a fresh perspective, renewed confidence, personal growth and a transformed sense of wellness.
Welcome to Viewpoint Calgary Psychological Services. Our goal is to promote your psychological well being by offering hope, support, and effective counselling services. Discover how our therapists can support you in achieving a fresh perspective, renewed confidence, personal growth and a transformed sense of wellness.
(587) 806-3705 View (587) 806-3705
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Calgary, AB
Strength Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2P  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(587) 847-2885 View (587) 847-2885
Photo of Neha Bansal, Pre-Licensed Professional in Calgary, AB
Neha Bansal
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3N
Hello and Welcome to my profile! I know it can be hard taking the first step in your mental health, but you are one step closer to getting back to your best self! I can assist you with setting effective goals and supporting you while you commit to achieving those goals. Using a client-centered, mindfulness approach, I am dedicated to providing clients with a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and grow! I strive to provide clients with an environment where they can explore their challenges and regain their full potential.
Hello and Welcome to my profile! I know it can be hard taking the first step in your mental health, but you are one step closer to getting back to your best self! I can assist you with setting effective goals and supporting you while you commit to achieving those goals. Using a client-centered, mindfulness approach, I am dedicated to providing clients with a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and grow! I strive to provide clients with an environment where they can explore their challenges and regain their full potential.
(587) 741-1909 View (587) 741-1909

See more therapy options for 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.