Photo of Lara A Singer, Psychologist in 06880, CT
Lara A Singer
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
My goal is to combine my compassionate approach with evidence-based methods which I tailor to each individual. Through my therapeutic services, I work to build an authentic relationship not only with each child I see, but also with their family. Rather than placing your child into a predetermined box, I consider their developmental stage, and we will work collaboratively to understand their strengths and challenges and address their needs. Most importantly, I always meet each client exactly where they are on their journey.
My goal is to combine my compassionate approach with evidence-based methods which I tailor to each individual. Through my therapeutic services, I work to build an authentic relationship not only with each child I see, but also with their family. Rather than placing your child into a predetermined box, I consider their developmental stage, and we will work collaboratively to understand their strengths and challenges and address their needs. Most importantly, I always meet each client exactly where they are on their journey.
(475) 264-4793 View (475) 264-4793
Photo of GJ Harbilas Counseling, LLC , CMHS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 06880, CT
GJ Harbilas Counseling, LLC , CMHS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DARC, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
If appropriate, spouses and family counseling my be asked to be involved, if indicated but that is always allowed by your agreement.
Much of my practice technique works to restore self esteem and dignity which are problems as a result of trauma and addiction. My personal experience is conducive to the work that takes place. I create a positive therapeutic alliance that is safe, and confidential. Addictions are treatable. Everyone can get sober, and in doing so you can live a "Quality of Life" that you deserve. Make the call and we can discuss your situation, confidentially and together make a plan to get; "Clean and Sober ". My promise to you that we can make it affordable.
If appropriate, spouses and family counseling my be asked to be involved, if indicated but that is always allowed by your agreement.
Much of my practice technique works to restore self esteem and dignity which are problems as a result of trauma and addiction. My personal experience is conducive to the work that takes place. I create a positive therapeutic alliance that is safe, and confidential. Addictions are treatable. Everyone can get sober, and in doing so you can live a "Quality of Life" that you deserve. Make the call and we can discuss your situation, confidentially and together make a plan to get; "Clean and Sober ". My promise to you that we can make it affordable.
(203) 745-2167 View (203) 745-2167
Photo of Anthony Silver, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
Anthony Silver
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, BCIAEEG
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I take a holistic view to the treatment of children, often including functional brain imaging, diet, and family and environmental issues.
My job is to help you when you don't have all the answers yourself. I have significant clinical experience with children, adolescents and adults, with a wide variety of issues. I work passionately to help my clients, using an eclectic approach determined solely by their needs. I work closely with other professionals with different specialties, and I will not hesitate to refer you to whoever I believe can help you best. Frequently, I work collaboratively with such specialists, especially if medication is involved. (I also feel very fortunate to be a frequent referral for many doctors, psychologists and psychiatrists.)
I take a holistic view to the treatment of children, often including functional brain imaging, diet, and family and environmental issues.
My job is to help you when you don't have all the answers yourself. I have significant clinical experience with children, adolescents and adults, with a wide variety of issues. I work passionately to help my clients, using an eclectic approach determined solely by their needs. I work closely with other professionals with different specialties, and I will not hesitate to refer you to whoever I believe can help you best. Frequently, I work collaboratively with such specialists, especially if medication is involved. (I also feel very fortunate to be a frequent referral for many doctors, psychologists and psychiatrists.)
(203) 936-6596 View (203) 936-6596
Photo of Ralph P. Balducci, Psychologist in 06880, CT
Ralph P. Balducci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am a licensed Psychologist in private practice for over 23 years here to support you to develop healthy connections and to find safety, peace, & joy in your life, and to help you feel understood, valued, and respected. I provide counseling and psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, & couples around mood disorders, interpersonal problems, substance abuse, and family conflict. I conduct psychological assessments, including for adoptions, as well as substance abuse evaluations to assess for level of care needs. I complete evaluations in Court-ordered and Attorney-referred cases, including in civil, criminal & child protection matters.
I am a licensed Psychologist in private practice for over 23 years here to support you to develop healthy connections and to find safety, peace, & joy in your life, and to help you feel understood, valued, and respected. I provide counseling and psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, & couples around mood disorders, interpersonal problems, substance abuse, and family conflict. I conduct psychological assessments, including for adoptions, as well as substance abuse evaluations to assess for level of care needs. I complete evaluations in Court-ordered and Attorney-referred cases, including in civil, criminal & child protection matters.
(203) 451-5375 View (203) 451-5375
Photo of Elaine Levy Cooper, Licensed Psychoanalyst in 06880, CT
Elaine Levy Cooper
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, NCPsyA, LP
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I use an age-appropriate combination of play and talk therapy to help young children and teens work through their social, school and/or family anxieties.
As a child/adolescent therapist and parent-child specialist, I know that parenting will always have its challenges and that a certain amount of stress is inevitable, even under the best of circumstances. However, this current pandemic, with its consequent uncertainties and increased challenges and stresses on families, is unprecedented. If you are a parent who is having difficulties or are the parent of a young child, teen or young adult who is having difficulties, talking to a professional can be helpful.
I use an age-appropriate combination of play and talk therapy to help young children and teens work through their social, school and/or family anxieties.
As a child/adolescent therapist and parent-child specialist, I know that parenting will always have its challenges and that a certain amount of stress is inevitable, even under the best of circumstances. However, this current pandemic, with its consequent uncertainties and increased challenges and stresses on families, is unprecedented. If you are a parent who is having difficulties or are the parent of a young child, teen or young adult who is having difficulties, talking to a professional can be helpful.
(203) 583-8179 View (203) 583-8179
Photo of Zoe Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 06880, CT
Zoe Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, trauma related issues, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, life transitions, family conflict, and general life problems.
I believe that therapy can be an enjoyable, comforting, challenging, and moving process. I recognize how difficult it can be for clients to show up consistently for themselves and put in the work. It’s a privilege to be able to guide my clients through this process and I do my best to support them in whatever ways needed. I strive to create a safe and judgement-free space where clients can be vulnerable.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, trauma related issues, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, life transitions, family conflict, and general life problems.
I believe that therapy can be an enjoyable, comforting, challenging, and moving process. I recognize how difficult it can be for clients to show up consistently for themselves and put in the work. It’s a privilege to be able to guide my clients through this process and I do my best to support them in whatever ways needed. I strive to create a safe and judgement-free space where clients can be vulnerable.
(914) 228-7959 View (914) 228-7959
Photo of LIFT Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
LIFT Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Your family's wellness solution. For over a decade, Lift has served as CT's premier choice for counseling, psychotherapy, concierge medical, psychological testing, and nutrition services. Equipped to meet the myriad of needs of modern families, Lift's multidisciplinary team provides psychiatric evaluations, dietary services, individual, group, couples & family therapy, eating disorder treatment, CBT, DBT, EMDR, ADHD evaluations & care, play therapy, career/effectiveness coaching, and mood and anxiety treatment, in person (Westport CT,) and remotely (CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, DC, GA, NC, PA.)
Your family's wellness solution. For over a decade, Lift has served as CT's premier choice for counseling, psychotherapy, concierge medical, psychological testing, and nutrition services. Equipped to meet the myriad of needs of modern families, Lift's multidisciplinary team provides psychiatric evaluations, dietary services, individual, group, couples & family therapy, eating disorder treatment, CBT, DBT, EMDR, ADHD evaluations & care, play therapy, career/effectiveness coaching, and mood and anxiety treatment, in person (Westport CT,) and remotely (CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, DC, GA, NC, PA.)
(475) 222-1599 View (475) 222-1599
Photo of Dr. Sharon H. Press, Psychologist in 06880, CT
Dr. Sharon H. Press
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Individual and family therapy is utilized.
My approach to therapy is practical With over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults I focus my energy with clients on the present. I help my clients identify their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are creating difficulties for them. I will help you use skills you already have or develop new techniques for managing difficulties in your life. If issues from the past are keeping you from managing your present life we will work together to neutralize issues from the past, so you can manage current life stresses with current, more effective techniques.
Individual and family therapy is utilized.
My approach to therapy is practical With over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults I focus my energy with clients on the present. I help my clients identify their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are creating difficulties for them. I will help you use skills you already have or develop new techniques for managing difficulties in your life. If issues from the past are keeping you from managing your present life we will work together to neutralize issues from the past, so you can manage current life stresses with current, more effective techniques.
(609) 459-0172 View (609) 459-0172
Photo of Ingi A Soliman, Psychologist in 06880, CT
Ingi A Soliman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I am trained in various modalities, including Mentalization-Based and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family systems, psychodynamic and relational psychotherapy.
I have been in private practice for more than 15 years and pride myself on helping individuals develop a strong sense of identity. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from The New School for Social Research and have extensive training from Beth Israel Medical Center, North Central Bronx Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital, and New York Presbyterian Hospital. I practice in Westport, CT, and Manhattan, NY. I work with families, adults, children, and adolescents suffering from mood, anxiety, and eating disorders, and help cope with life transitions, including parenthood, divorce, emerging adulthood, medical illness, and end-of-life.
I am trained in various modalities, including Mentalization-Based and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family systems, psychodynamic and relational psychotherapy.
I have been in private practice for more than 15 years and pride myself on helping individuals develop a strong sense of identity. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from The New School for Social Research and have extensive training from Beth Israel Medical Center, North Central Bronx Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital, and New York Presbyterian Hospital. I practice in Westport, CT, and Manhattan, NY. I work with families, adults, children, and adolescents suffering from mood, anxiety, and eating disorders, and help cope with life transitions, including parenthood, divorce, emerging adulthood, medical illness, and end-of-life.
(203) 692-4430 View (203) 692-4430
Photo of Yehuda Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 06880, CT
Yehuda Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I am a child and family therapist who prefers to work with children who show oppositional behavior and other problematic behaviors. Are you experiencing difficulty communicating with your child? Do you feel like you're trying to help your child but your child doesn't recognize this? Perhaps you are aware that something is bothering your child but you and your child can't put your finger on it. You may have heard from the school that your child is having difficulty in school and your having trouble identifying what is causing this.
I am a child and family therapist who prefers to work with children who show oppositional behavior and other problematic behaviors. Are you experiencing difficulty communicating with your child? Do you feel like you're trying to help your child but your child doesn't recognize this? Perhaps you are aware that something is bothering your child but you and your child can't put your finger on it. You may have heard from the school that your child is having difficulty in school and your having trouble identifying what is causing this.
(203) 405-9245 View (203) 405-9245
Photo of Matthew Maynard, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
Matthew Maynard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Happiness and fulfillment in life is achieved when the relationships with our inner self, our partner, and our family members are harmonious. Harmony is a process, not a result. I strategize with my clients, who are sick of the status quo, to help them identify areas in their individual, marital, and familial lives that can facilitate peaceful resolutions.
Happiness and fulfillment in life is achieved when the relationships with our inner self, our partner, and our family members are harmonious. Harmony is a process, not a result. I strategize with my clients, who are sick of the status quo, to help them identify areas in their individual, marital, and familial lives that can facilitate peaceful resolutions.
(978) 525-0283 View (978) 525-0283
Photo of Lawrence H. Birnbach, Psychologist in 06880, CT
Lawrence H. Birnbach
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Whether with partners, family, friends, children, parents or at your work, relationships are the centerpieces of our lives. Handled thoughtfully, they uplift, or they can frustrate, provoke guilt and aggravate. For twenty-five years I have helped people to find greater satisfaction through better understanding of the events in their lives, along with honest discussions of options and helping to find the motivation to move forward. I have published articles about marriage, parenting, and growing healthier relationships, and a book: HOW TO KNOW IF ITS TIME TO GO. Website: lbirnbach.com. I work interactively and confidentially.
Whether with partners, family, friends, children, parents or at your work, relationships are the centerpieces of our lives. Handled thoughtfully, they uplift, or they can frustrate, provoke guilt and aggravate. For twenty-five years I have helped people to find greater satisfaction through better understanding of the events in their lives, along with honest discussions of options and helping to find the motivation to move forward. I have published articles about marriage, parenting, and growing healthier relationships, and a book: HOW TO KNOW IF ITS TIME TO GO. Website: lbirnbach.com. I work interactively and confidentially.
(860) 253-2191 View (860) 253-2191
Photo of Robert Romano, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 06880, CT
Robert Romano, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Hello, thanks for visiting. My experience as a therapist includes working with adolescents and adults into late adulthood. I have compassionately supported a diverse group of clients (at Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan, CT and elsewhere) by teaming with them to address issues such as: addiction and co-occurring disorders; anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, identity development and acceptance; low self-esteem, emotional self-regulation; stress management; relationships, family conflict; co-dependency, career struggles; academic difficulties; grief and loss; and other life transitions. My goal is to understand your needs, and provide tools to help you live your best life.
Hello, thanks for visiting. My experience as a therapist includes working with adolescents and adults into late adulthood. I have compassionately supported a diverse group of clients (at Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan, CT and elsewhere) by teaming with them to address issues such as: addiction and co-occurring disorders; anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, identity development and acceptance; low self-esteem, emotional self-regulation; stress management; relationships, family conflict; co-dependency, career struggles; academic difficulties; grief and loss; and other life transitions. My goal is to understand your needs, and provide tools to help you live your best life.
(203) 654-9094 View (203) 654-9094
Photo of Molly A Mcdonald, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
Molly A Mcdonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CKPMT, LLC
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Lastly, as a LMFT, I offer traditional treatment for marital discord, family conflict, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, and anger management, as well as many more.
Is everyday a parenting struggle and everything a battle? Considering medication but would love an alternative that works? I offer two evidenced-based therapies, one for parents/ one for children. I can help you navigate through the most difficult of parenting struggles. Mild behavioral issues such as potty training and following directions to more severe such as, ADHD, school issues, anxiety, and aggression/talking back. This short-term program, (generally 3-8) achieves success quickly! The techniques help parents stay consistent and calm which also decreases marital discord and family chaos. Call today and begin increasing cooperation and compliance, and enjoy family time again.
Lastly, as a LMFT, I offer traditional treatment for marital discord, family conflict, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, and anger management, as well as many more.
Is everyday a parenting struggle and everything a battle? Considering medication but would love an alternative that works? I offer two evidenced-based therapies, one for parents/ one for children. I can help you navigate through the most difficult of parenting struggles. Mild behavioral issues such as potty training and following directions to more severe such as, ADHD, school issues, anxiety, and aggression/talking back. This short-term program, (generally 3-8) achieves success quickly! The techniques help parents stay consistent and calm which also decreases marital discord and family chaos. Call today and begin increasing cooperation and compliance, and enjoy family time again.
(203) 779-6634 View (203) 779-6634
Photo of Coastal Connecticut Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
Coastal Connecticut Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Coastal Connecticut Counseling is a group psychotherapy practice made up of a diverse team of healthcare professionals. Our comprehensive team includes Marriage and Family Therapists, Social Workers, Professional Counselors and an APRN who provide a uniquely coordinated treatment program of mental health services. This approach allows us to offer clients various professional perspectives to meet our clients' needs throughout their lives.
Coastal Connecticut Counseling is a group psychotherapy practice made up of a diverse team of healthcare professionals. Our comprehensive team includes Marriage and Family Therapists, Social Workers, Professional Counselors and an APRN who provide a uniquely coordinated treatment program of mental health services. This approach allows us to offer clients various professional perspectives to meet our clients' needs throughout their lives.
(475) 471-1804 View (475) 471-1804
Photo of James E Blechman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
James E Blechman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW-R, LMFT, LP, CGP
Not Verified Not Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Relationship expert/infidelity issues. AASECT certified sex therapist, licensed Marriage and Family therapist, licensed psychoanalyst, licensed clinical psychiatric social worker. I've been in practice for over 25 years and during that time I've been able to treat a wide range of emotional problems in individuals, couples, adolescents, and families. Discovering the underlying causes of symptoms is the best way to produce a lasting cure. Through our work together you will attain a resolution or reduction of symptoms, gain a deeper self understanding and acceptance, and function authentically at your best in all aspects of your life.
Relationship expert/infidelity issues. AASECT certified sex therapist, licensed Marriage and Family therapist, licensed psychoanalyst, licensed clinical psychiatric social worker. I've been in practice for over 25 years and during that time I've been able to treat a wide range of emotional problems in individuals, couples, adolescents, and families. Discovering the underlying causes of symptoms is the best way to produce a lasting cure. Through our work together you will attain a resolution or reduction of symptoms, gain a deeper self understanding and acceptance, and function authentically at your best in all aspects of your life.
(203) 212-9870 View (203) 212-9870
Photo of Strategic Solutions, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
Strategic Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MSW
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Rona Preli has extensive expertise in the Structural and Strategic models of family therapy.
Our therapeutic approach at Strategic Solutions utilizes a brief, problem solving model that focuses on understanding and treating problems within their intimate context. The goal of therapy is to resolve the presenting problem while fostering supportive, functional relationships. Family problems are embedded in relationship patterns, which can become unproductive and perpetuate, rather than solve problems. Our approach is strength-based and outcome oriented. The focus of therapy is understanding the client's goals for change and then working together to solve those problems directly.
Rona Preli has extensive expertise in the Structural and Strategic models of family therapy.
Our therapeutic approach at Strategic Solutions utilizes a brief, problem solving model that focuses on understanding and treating problems within their intimate context. The goal of therapy is to resolve the presenting problem while fostering supportive, functional relationships. Family problems are embedded in relationship patterns, which can become unproductive and perpetuate, rather than solve problems. Our approach is strength-based and outcome oriented. The focus of therapy is understanding the client's goals for change and then working together to solve those problems directly.
(203) 580-6364 View (203) 580-6364
Photo of Unalome Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 06880, CT
Unalome Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I employ a variety of clinical skills and treatment modalities geared towards specific client needs, including distress tolerance, emotional regulation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Strategic and Structural Family Therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in mental and behavioral health. I have worked with children, adolescents and families struggling with a variety of issues ranging from developmental disorders and physical handicaps to psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, conduct disorder and antisocial personality disorder. I have extensive experience providing intensive in-home treatment services and have also worked with clients in schools, residential facilities and community-based settings.
I employ a variety of clinical skills and treatment modalities geared towards specific client needs, including distress tolerance, emotional regulation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Strategic and Structural Family Therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in mental and behavioral health. I have worked with children, adolescents and families struggling with a variety of issues ranging from developmental disorders and physical handicaps to psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, conduct disorder and antisocial personality disorder. I have extensive experience providing intensive in-home treatment services and have also worked with clients in schools, residential facilities and community-based settings.
(203) 680-3679 View (203) 680-3679
Photo of Michael Romano, Marriage & Family Therapist in 06880, CT
Michael Romano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Life can be hard, even more so when you have anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or relationship conflicts. It is time to level up. Change can be difficult, but you don't have to face it alone. We can work together on finding the solutions for sustainable growth.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Life can be hard, even more so when you have anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or relationship conflicts. It is time to level up. Change can be difficult, but you don't have to face it alone. We can work together on finding the solutions for sustainable growth.
(475) 234-0107 View (475) 234-0107
Photo of Cheyenne McElhiney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 06880, CT
Cheyenne McElhiney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCA
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Cheyenne E. McElhiney helps people reconnect with their innate ability to heal themselves through regulating their nervous systems and managing their unconscious thoughts/behaviors. I apply a wide range of information including CBT, DBT, Psychoanalysis, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Neuroscience, Quantum Physics, somatic techniques, mindful movement, faith exploration, breath work, storytelling, Art Therapy, and meditation/visualizations with my clients in order to treat them more holistically. I believe, (through personal and witnessed experience) that we are our own best healers.
Cheyenne E. McElhiney helps people reconnect with their innate ability to heal themselves through regulating their nervous systems and managing their unconscious thoughts/behaviors. I apply a wide range of information including CBT, DBT, Psychoanalysis, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Neuroscience, Quantum Physics, somatic techniques, mindful movement, faith exploration, breath work, storytelling, Art Therapy, and meditation/visualizations with my clients in order to treat them more holistically. I believe, (through personal and witnessed experience) that we are our own best healers.
(475) 264-4751 View (475) 264-4751
Family Therapy

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.