Photo of Judith Mazza, Psychologist in Maryland
Judith Mazza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Toward this end, family members and significant others are sometimes asked to participate in the therapy.
I specialize in an active, short-term problem solving treatment. While enough of the past must be understood to make sense of the present, this goal oriented short-term therapy is oriented toward the present and future and does not emphasize pathology and the past. Although there is no limit to the number of sessions that can be scheduled, my attitude toward time is to create positive change as quickly as possible and practical. This therapy utilizes particular strengths and aptitudes that every client brings with them. These strengths are used in the most productive way to ameliorate problems and introduce flexibility
Toward this end, family members and significant others are sometimes asked to participate in the therapy.
I specialize in an active, short-term problem solving treatment. While enough of the past must be understood to make sense of the present, this goal oriented short-term therapy is oriented toward the present and future and does not emphasize pathology and the past. Although there is no limit to the number of sessions that can be scheduled, my attitude toward time is to create positive change as quickly as possible and practical. This therapy utilizes particular strengths and aptitudes that every client brings with them. These strengths are used in the most productive way to ameliorate problems and introduce flexibility
(301) 686-7089 View (301) 686-7089
Photo of Bridgitte Renae Hammaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Bridgitte Renae Hammaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409  (Online Only)
My practice is built on teaching and supporting people who want to; reduce and manage their stress-worry-anxiety, improve their mood to move toward their authentically happier selves, improve their relationships with family-friends-co-workers, are going through life transitions and want to use it to be better aligned with where they want to be in their life, manage the flood of events in the world that are impacting their thoughts and feelings, people who are hard workers and care for others but then find it difficult to have time left over for their own self-care on a regular basis.
My practice is built on teaching and supporting people who want to; reduce and manage their stress-worry-anxiety, improve their mood to move toward their authentically happier selves, improve their relationships with family-friends-co-workers, are going through life transitions and want to use it to be better aligned with where they want to be in their life, manage the flood of events in the world that are impacting their thoughts and feelings, people who are hard workers and care for others but then find it difficult to have time left over for their own self-care on a regular basis.
(443) 282-1380 View (443) 282-1380
Photo of Frank L Lockman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Frank L Lockman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Reisterstown, MD 21136
My therapeutic practice area includes pre-marital and marital therapy, substance abuse, and individual and family therapy.
I heard it said somewhere "there are two kinds of people, people with issues and those without". So If your are reading this and have challenges you wish to overcome, lets talk. Whether you're having marital issues stemming from a lack of communication, need help for a child or teenager who is struggling with substance abuse or defiance, or dealing with anxiety or depression yourself-you have come to the right place. I assist individuals to help themselves through their challenges. My approach to therapy encourages clients to experience an opportunity for healing, developing skills, and changing behavior.
My therapeutic practice area includes pre-marital and marital therapy, substance abuse, and individual and family therapy.
I heard it said somewhere "there are two kinds of people, people with issues and those without". So If your are reading this and have challenges you wish to overcome, lets talk. Whether you're having marital issues stemming from a lack of communication, need help for a child or teenager who is struggling with substance abuse or defiance, or dealing with anxiety or depression yourself-you have come to the right place. I assist individuals to help themselves through their challenges. My approach to therapy encourages clients to experience an opportunity for healing, developing skills, and changing behavior.
(410) 639-3369 View (410) 639-3369
Photo of Dr. Joseph Tropper, Counselor in Maryland
Dr. Joseph Tropper
Counselor, PsyD, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
My experience has put me in contact with hundreds of clients ranging from children to adults suffering from issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, addictions, trauma, family challenges and much more.
If you found this page it's because you're contemplating getting help for yourself or a loved one. Congratulations on taking the next step! It takes bravery and honesty to face our challenges. The good news is your life can and will be better. With our shared commitment to your growth and success we can work together to help you live the life you've always dreamed of and that you deserve. I’m licensed in Maryland, NY and NJ. Call me for a free consult today with any questions you have.
My experience has put me in contact with hundreds of clients ranging from children to adults suffering from issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, addictions, trauma, family challenges and much more.
If you found this page it's because you're contemplating getting help for yourself or a loved one. Congratulations on taking the next step! It takes bravery and honesty to face our challenges. The good news is your life can and will be better. With our shared commitment to your growth and success we can work together to help you live the life you've always dreamed of and that you deserve. I’m licensed in Maryland, NY and NJ. Call me for a free consult today with any questions you have.
(443) 221-6294 View (443) 221-6294
Bridging Gaps Through Positive Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-C, CRNP-PM, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21213
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Congratulations on taking steps toward establishing a more fulfilling, healthy, and successful life! BGTPS is a community-based Outpatient Mental Health Clinic that provides integrated behavioral health services utilizing a person-centered approach to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide individual, family, and group therapy, medication management, therapeutic mentorship, and behavioral consultation. In therapy, we work collaboratively with you to enhance your understanding of the internal and environmental factors that impact life, emerge as relational patterns, and potentially impede success.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Congratulations on taking steps toward establishing a more fulfilling, healthy, and successful life! BGTPS is a community-based Outpatient Mental Health Clinic that provides integrated behavioral health services utilizing a person-centered approach to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide individual, family, and group therapy, medication management, therapeutic mentorship, and behavioral consultation. In therapy, we work collaboratively with you to enhance your understanding of the internal and environmental factors that impact life, emerge as relational patterns, and potentially impede success.
(410) 324-6172 View (410) 324-6172
Photo of Mallory English, Counselor in Maryland
Mallory English
Counselor, LCPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed counselor with a passion for working with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I love assisting those who are struggling with life adjustments, anxiety, depression, family and peer relationship issues, self-esteem, anger, grief, school issues, and a need for coping strategies. I will listen and provide compassionate support throughout your healing journey.
Hello! I am a licensed counselor with a passion for working with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I love assisting those who are struggling with life adjustments, anxiety, depression, family and peer relationship issues, self-esteem, anger, grief, school issues, and a need for coping strategies. I will listen and provide compassionate support throughout your healing journey.
(443) 335-2680 View (443) 335-2680
Carla Earl Trump
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
I am eclectic in my use of therapies and interventions with a focus upon Family Systems Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a holistic therapist and clinical supervisor who focuses upon body, mind, and spirit. My ideal client is ready to face their difficulties in an open and honest manner through individual growth and healing. I am a generalist. The populations I serve include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and my specialty is families wanting guidance in making changes to experience their healthiest physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.
I am eclectic in my use of therapies and interventions with a focus upon Family Systems Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a holistic therapist and clinical supervisor who focuses upon body, mind, and spirit. My ideal client is ready to face their difficulties in an open and honest manner through individual growth and healing. I am a generalist. The populations I serve include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and my specialty is families wanting guidance in making changes to experience their healthiest physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.
(410) 639-3739 View (410) 639-3739
Photo of Janelle Beiler @ Lifemark, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Janelle Beiler @ Lifemark
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS, NCC, MCRSP, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury, MD 21804
Waitlist for new clients
LifeMark has therapists who have specialized training in addiction counseling, child, adolescent, marriage and family counseling, christian counseling, grief counseling, rehabilitation counseling and group counseling.
LifeMark exists to serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups through counseling, vocational and educational services. We are mindful that everyone is different and are sensitive to the individual needs of each of our consumers. We consider it our privilege to assist individuals in moving forward to a better life. Our scope is broad, as we have therapists that have specific training to deal with most issues.
LifeMark has therapists who have specialized training in addiction counseling, child, adolescent, marriage and family counseling, christian counseling, grief counseling, rehabilitation counseling and group counseling.
LifeMark exists to serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups through counseling, vocational and educational services. We are mindful that everyone is different and are sensitive to the individual needs of each of our consumers. We consider it our privilege to assist individuals in moving forward to a better life. Our scope is broad, as we have therapists that have specific training to deal with most issues.
(443) 991-7264 View (443) 991-7264
Photo of Hassan Karimi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maryland
Hassan Karimi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I do believe each person and family has unique resources to activate healing processes. Brief Therapy requires a highly collaborative approach between therapist and clients, and focuses on practical solutions and clear communication. Brief Therapy offers a maximum of 10 sessions but usually don't need that many to promote change in the problem that is presented. I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of problems: marital conflict and affairs, depression and anxiety, children and adolescent problems, addiction, eating disorders, stress and work related problems. I also provide online-therapy services.
I do believe each person and family has unique resources to activate healing processes. Brief Therapy requires a highly collaborative approach between therapist and clients, and focuses on practical solutions and clear communication. Brief Therapy offers a maximum of 10 sessions but usually don't need that many to promote change in the problem that is presented. I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of problems: marital conflict and affairs, depression and anxiety, children and adolescent problems, addiction, eating disorders, stress and work related problems. I also provide online-therapy services.
(888) 367-5442 View (888) 367-5442
Photo of Audrey Elkinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Audrey Elkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Audrey Elkinson is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker and Board-Certified Art Therapist (LCSW-C, ATR-BC)with more than 10 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults who have been struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, family conflict, dysfunctional relationships, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, women's issues, chronic stress, and more. Audrey received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where she was a research assistant to the Financial Social Work Initiative.
Audrey Elkinson is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker and Board-Certified Art Therapist (LCSW-C, ATR-BC)with more than 10 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults who have been struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, family conflict, dysfunctional relationships, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, women's issues, chronic stress, and more. Audrey received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where she was a research assistant to the Financial Social Work Initiative.
(301) 298-3347 View (301) 298-3347
Photo of Janet B Connors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Janet B Connors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. I am invested in reducing the stress in your life that may be limiting your potential to heal and thrive. With 25+ years of experience, I am a Stress Management Skills Educator, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Family Psychotherapist; I have advanced training in a lifestyle approach to health and wellbeing from the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine. Stress reduction activities are among the most important skills to build into a lifestyle to maximize the body’s healing response. You will learn self-care techniques to promote relaxation and resilience and improve your quality of life.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. I am invested in reducing the stress in your life that may be limiting your potential to heal and thrive. With 25+ years of experience, I am a Stress Management Skills Educator, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Family Psychotherapist; I have advanced training in a lifestyle approach to health and wellbeing from the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine. Stress reduction activities are among the most important skills to build into a lifestyle to maximize the body’s healing response. You will learn self-care techniques to promote relaxation and resilience and improve your quality of life.
(240) 213-4725 View (240) 213-4725
Photo of Dalia Shiber Schlegel, Psychological Associate in Maryland
Dalia Shiber Schlegel
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forestville, MD 20747
I provide individual psychotherapy services and comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, adults, and elderly populations. The areas of testing address a variety of issues, such as evaluations for academic and learning difficulties, attention deficit problems, executive function struggles, developmental disorders, neurological conditions, memory concerns, emotional/behavioral problems, and mental health issues. With regards to psychotherapy, the approach utilized will be specifically customized to the client's needs, and could encompass the use of cognitive, behavioral, experiential, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches.
I provide individual psychotherapy services and comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, adults, and elderly populations. The areas of testing address a variety of issues, such as evaluations for academic and learning difficulties, attention deficit problems, executive function struggles, developmental disorders, neurological conditions, memory concerns, emotional/behavioral problems, and mental health issues. With regards to psychotherapy, the approach utilized will be specifically customized to the client's needs, and could encompass the use of cognitive, behavioral, experiential, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches.
(703) 864-6656 View (703) 864-6656
Photo of Accepting New Clients- Shoshana Cook in Maryland
Accepting New Clients- Shoshana Cook
MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
I've been trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) & CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy).
Hello and welcome! Finding a therapist can be hard. I want to commend you for taking that first step. I approach therapy with a non-judgmental and trauma-informed lens. I use a client-centered approach and believe that the body and nervous system holds memories from our past. I strive to help you work through those memories in whichever way you feel is most comfortable. My goal is to create a safe environment that allows you to prosper. I use a variety of different interventions, honoring that you know yourself best and what helps one person, may not help another in the same way.
I've been trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) & CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy).
Hello and welcome! Finding a therapist can be hard. I want to commend you for taking that first step. I approach therapy with a non-judgmental and trauma-informed lens. I use a client-centered approach and believe that the body and nervous system holds memories from our past. I strive to help you work through those memories in whichever way you feel is most comfortable. My goal is to create a safe environment that allows you to prosper. I use a variety of different interventions, honoring that you know yourself best and what helps one person, may not help another in the same way.
(301) 396-7291 View (301) 396-7291
Photo of Renee Neely, Counselor in Maryland
Renee Neely
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
My work history with children and families includes individual, group, and family therapy within the home, school, and community.
Decades ago, many problems stopped kids from being successful in schools, making friends, and fulfilling their potential. Parents, you now have many resources to tap when you feel that something is not quite right with the way your child thinks, feels, or acts. Decisions about what to do when something seems wrong are critical - not only to the well-being of your child but also to their healthy development and successful transition to adulthood. So, if you have a child with a mental, emotional, or behavior problem, or think you might, please feel free to contact me.
My work history with children and families includes individual, group, and family therapy within the home, school, and community.
Decades ago, many problems stopped kids from being successful in schools, making friends, and fulfilling their potential. Parents, you now have many resources to tap when you feel that something is not quite right with the way your child thinks, feels, or acts. Decisions about what to do when something seems wrong are critical - not only to the well-being of your child but also to their healthy development and successful transition to adulthood. So, if you have a child with a mental, emotional, or behavior problem, or think you might, please feel free to contact me.
(202) 681-0966 View (202) 681-0966
Photo of Vickye Hayter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maryland
Vickye Hayter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, RN, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
My professional training, grounded in Holistic Health and Family Systems, enhances my understanding of individuals and their relationships.
Often we wait until we have exhausted every measure before we seek professional help. You can start on your journey to healing, reconciliation, peace, and joy today. I believe that in times of adversity and struggle, we have the greatest potential for growth. It is often hard to see clearly how the difficulties we face will lead to positive changes, so instead we lose our way and get stuck in places of frustration, despair, and resentment. The change process is a journey-sometimes long and at times short. It is a process that gives us the opportunity to discover new ways of approaching our circumstances.
My professional training, grounded in Holistic Health and Family Systems, enhances my understanding of individuals and their relationships.
Often we wait until we have exhausted every measure before we seek professional help. You can start on your journey to healing, reconciliation, peace, and joy today. I believe that in times of adversity and struggle, we have the greatest potential for growth. It is often hard to see clearly how the difficulties we face will lead to positive changes, so instead we lose our way and get stuck in places of frustration, despair, and resentment. The change process is a journey-sometimes long and at times short. It is a process that gives us the opportunity to discover new ways of approaching our circumstances.
(301) 327-2320 View (301) 327-2320
Photo of Christine H. Wang, Psychologist in Maryland
Christine H. Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Potomac, MD 20854
Unhealed wounds may resurface as you navigate romance, sexuality, school/career, family, identity (race/ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+).
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health concerns (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
Unhealed wounds may resurface as you navigate romance, sexuality, school/career, family, identity (race/ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+).
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health concerns (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
(301) 205-5209 View (301) 205-5209
Photo of Carroll Counseling Centers (Severna Park & Towson), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Carroll Counseling Centers (Severna Park & Towson)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Severna Park, MD 21146
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
(443) 979-8636 View (443) 979-8636
Photo of Sara L Westendorff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Sara L Westendorff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
I believe in acknowledging how our race, gender, sexuality, family history, and social/cultural education shape who we tell ourselves we “should” be.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified perinatal specialist focused on maternal and paternal mental health concerns. I enjoy helping individuals find compassionate, strengths-focused ways of looking at themselves to create the change they want. I am interested in helping parents to-be and parents at all stages create their own versions of realistic parenting in today’s hurried and stressed society. I work with couples seeking relationship therapy that center on perinatal/postnatal or parenting concerns.
I believe in acknowledging how our race, gender, sexuality, family history, and social/cultural education shape who we tell ourselves we “should” be.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified perinatal specialist focused on maternal and paternal mental health concerns. I enjoy helping individuals find compassionate, strengths-focused ways of looking at themselves to create the change they want. I am interested in helping parents to-be and parents at all stages create their own versions of realistic parenting in today’s hurried and stressed society. I work with couples seeking relationship therapy that center on perinatal/postnatal or parenting concerns.
(443) 941-0813 View (443) 941-0813
Photo of David Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
David Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
Have you been through a lot and must be seen as the strong one? Are you expected to just “figure it out?” Are you holding the weight of relationships, the family, finances, work, etc.? It can get heavy with everyone always wanting something from you but you don’t get the same in return. Well let’s go ahead and create a space just for YOU, and do something you rarely get to do, talk about it!
Have you been through a lot and must be seen as the strong one? Are you expected to just “figure it out?” Are you holding the weight of relationships, the family, finances, work, etc.? It can get heavy with everyone always wanting something from you but you don’t get the same in return. Well let’s go ahead and create a space just for YOU, and do something you rarely get to do, talk about it!
(240) 363-3302 View (240) 363-3302
Photo of Casey Frederick, Art Therapist in Maryland
Casey Frederick
Art Therapist, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
She provides art therapy and traditional therapeutic services to children and adults with a wide range of common challenges including: - ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, sensory processing disorder and sensory sensitivities, potty difficulties, family dynamic work, attachment relationships, LGBTQIA, Parenting, Children with parents ex.
Casey Frederick is a Licensed Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. Casey has experience and training in a variety of clinical approaches working with populations including children, families, parents, wounded, ill and injured service members, as well as military dependents. Casey specializes in providing art therapy with a trauma informed approach while integrating attachment and polyvagal theory from a strength based perspective.
She provides art therapy and traditional therapeutic services to children and adults with a wide range of common challenges including: - ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, sensory processing disorder and sensory sensitivities, potty difficulties, family dynamic work, attachment relationships, LGBTQIA, Parenting, Children with parents ex.
Casey Frederick is a Licensed Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. Casey has experience and training in a variety of clinical approaches working with populations including children, families, parents, wounded, ill and injured service members, as well as military dependents. Casey specializes in providing art therapy with a trauma informed approach while integrating attachment and polyvagal theory from a strength based perspective.
(240) 209-9649 View (240) 209-9649
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.