Photo of Angela Lovett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Angela Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi there, I am here to help you. I work with individuals, couples, and families with struggles ranging from current life issues, relationship struggles, and issues that have been a lifelong battle. Clients often come to me because they have hit the lowest point and have never felt more alone, even after trying therapy countless times before. Many clients have left counseling finding resolution and a drive to live their life to the fullest. My clients have expressed finding healing, feeling equipped to manage life, and having healthier relationships and connections with others that they previously thought weren't possible.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi there, I am here to help you. I work with individuals, couples, and families with struggles ranging from current life issues, relationship struggles, and issues that have been a lifelong battle. Clients often come to me because they have hit the lowest point and have never felt more alone, even after trying therapy countless times before. Many clients have left counseling finding resolution and a drive to live their life to the fullest. My clients have expressed finding healing, feeling equipped to manage life, and having healthier relationships and connections with others that they previously thought weren't possible.
(314) 207-0749 View (314) 207-0749
Photo of Nancy Albus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Nancy Albus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
My general approach with working with clients for over 20 years is highly individualized, relational and strengthen based. I believe most clients simply need an environment to communicate, process feelings and gain insight in order to create a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I offer individual therapy for adolescents, adults and family therapy. My passion has always been treating eating disorders and the underlying causes such as depression and anxiety. Another clinical passion and area of focus has been assisting women and mothers with identity development and navigating life transitions.
My general approach with working with clients for over 20 years is highly individualized, relational and strengthen based. I believe most clients simply need an environment to communicate, process feelings and gain insight in order to create a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I offer individual therapy for adolescents, adults and family therapy. My passion has always been treating eating disorders and the underlying causes such as depression and anxiety. Another clinical passion and area of focus has been assisting women and mothers with identity development and navigating life transitions.
(314) 526-2550 View (314) 526-2550
Photo of Katie Plasmeier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Katie Plasmeier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I am a formally trained DBT therapist and am also trained in Family Based Therapy.
I believe in providing a safe space for my clients to work towards their goals. By providing a safe space to open up about vulnerable topics my goal is to assist you in learning how to challenge maladaptive coping strategies and replace them with adaptive ones. In counseling the process to work towards change can be scary and difficult and that is why my number one goal as a therapist is providing a safe and inviting space to open up.I believe in using a person-centered approach, which means allowing you to guide the sessions. I have found that allowing you to build rapport and work towards your goals it fosters the most change.
I am a formally trained DBT therapist and am also trained in Family Based Therapy.
I believe in providing a safe space for my clients to work towards their goals. By providing a safe space to open up about vulnerable topics my goal is to assist you in learning how to challenge maladaptive coping strategies and replace them with adaptive ones. In counseling the process to work towards change can be scary and difficult and that is why my number one goal as a therapist is providing a safe and inviting space to open up.I believe in using a person-centered approach, which means allowing you to guide the sessions. I have found that allowing you to build rapport and work towards your goals it fosters the most change.
(314) 328-7801 View (314) 328-7801
Photo of Chelsea Albus Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkwood, MO
Chelsea Albus Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
I work with individuals who are navigating grief and loss, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions and identity development. In therapy, I balance addressing symptoms and looking beyond the surface to address the underlying emotions driving behavioral and interpersonal patterns. By learning new adaptive coping strategies and gaining insight into the early development of current emotional wounds or maladaptive behaviors, clients can feel empowered to create positive change.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
I work with individuals who are navigating grief and loss, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions and identity development. In therapy, I balance addressing symptoms and looking beyond the surface to address the underlying emotions driving behavioral and interpersonal patterns. By learning new adaptive coping strategies and gaining insight into the early development of current emotional wounds or maladaptive behaviors, clients can feel empowered to create positive change.
(833) 325-0157 View (833) 325-0157
Elephant Rock Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Services include Individual and Family Counseling, and an Adolescent Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Program (24 weeks) teaching extensive coping & interpersonal skills to teens and parents that often lead to significant improvements in their lives.
Welcome to Elephant Rock Counseling - we have recently added an experienced female therapists who still has some availability for NEW CLIENTS. The majority of our therapists work with Adults & Adolescents - we can assist with important life goals and help you find more adaptive coping skills working through challenging obstacles that usually lead one to therapy. Areas of speciality include: Motivational Interviewing for Addiction, Behavioral Activation for Depression, Acceptance and Commitment Trauma Focused Therapy for Anxiety, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Suicidal & Self-Harm Behaviors.
Services include Individual and Family Counseling, and an Adolescent Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Program (24 weeks) teaching extensive coping & interpersonal skills to teens and parents that often lead to significant improvements in their lives.
Welcome to Elephant Rock Counseling - we have recently added an experienced female therapists who still has some availability for NEW CLIENTS. The majority of our therapists work with Adults & Adolescents - we can assist with important life goals and help you find more adaptive coping skills working through challenging obstacles that usually lead one to therapy. Areas of speciality include: Motivational Interviewing for Addiction, Behavioral Activation for Depression, Acceptance and Commitment Trauma Focused Therapy for Anxiety, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Suicidal & Self-Harm Behaviors.
(314) 626-8509 View (314) 626-8509
Photo of Kristen Stoff in Kirkwood, MO
Kristen Stoff
LPC, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I specialize in Christian Counseling, Family Systems, and Behavioral Therapy.
I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients where a collaborative and goal-oriented relationship can develop. I assist people in increasing awareness of themselves and facilitate their journey towards healing, growth, understanding and peace.
I specialize in Christian Counseling, Family Systems, and Behavioral Therapy.
I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients where a collaborative and goal-oriented relationship can develop. I assist people in increasing awareness of themselves and facilitate their journey towards healing, growth, understanding and peace.
(314) 470-9453 View (314) 470-9453
Photo of Lily Pernoud, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Lily Pernoud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Lily has over a decade of experience serving individuals, couples, adolescents, families & relationship systems. She specializes in eating disorders, sexual disorders and relationship issues. Further, she is skilled in addressing mood disorders (anxiety, depression, OCD), trauma-related disorders (sexual, physical, emotional abuse, PTSD), and personality disorders (borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder). Her integrative approach includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Systems Theory, the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other modalities in order to meet each client's individual needs.
Lily has over a decade of experience serving individuals, couples, adolescents, families & relationship systems. She specializes in eating disorders, sexual disorders and relationship issues. Further, she is skilled in addressing mood disorders (anxiety, depression, OCD), trauma-related disorders (sexual, physical, emotional abuse, PTSD), and personality disorders (borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder). Her integrative approach includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Systems Theory, the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other modalities in order to meet each client's individual needs.
(314) 934-2787 View (314) 934-2787
Photo of Kristin A Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kirkwood, MO
Kristin A Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Because I'm a family therapist, some people assume I only work with couples and families.
CHANGE: "to make or become different." Chances are if you're checking out websites for therapists, you're likely thinking about change-either change that you're interested in initiating or change that has been thrust upon you. Regardless, it can be a daunting experience and taking the first step is sometimes the most challenging. Take a look at the information here and on my website, and give me a call if you'd like to talk.
Because I'm a family therapist, some people assume I only work with couples and families.
CHANGE: "to make or become different." Chances are if you're checking out websites for therapists, you're likely thinking about change-either change that you're interested in initiating or change that has been thrust upon you. Regardless, it can be a daunting experience and taking the first step is sometimes the most challenging. Take a look at the information here and on my website, and give me a call if you'd like to talk.
(314) 269-0831 View (314) 269-0831
Photo of Sarah F Coffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkwood, MO
Sarah F Coffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Specializations: Women, female youth, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship conflict, family conflict, trauma, sexual identity, postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy & infant loss, emotional eating, health issues and self-injury.
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
Specializations: Women, female youth, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship conflict, family conflict, trauma, sexual identity, postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy & infant loss, emotional eating, health issues and self-injury.
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
(314) 527-3084 View (314) 527-3084
Photo of Emily Hartman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Emily Hartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I serve clients struggling with unhealthy relationships or family dynamics, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, or trauma, among others.
I treat individuals, couples and families with a variety of struggles. Whether you are in need of help navigating present relationships, life transitions, or are struggling with lifelong issues, my education and experience can help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of approaches throughout the therapeutic process to meet the needs of the clients I see as they progress and work towards leading a happier, healthier life. My experience and training can help you grow and create the change for which you are looking.
I serve clients struggling with unhealthy relationships or family dynamics, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, or trauma, among others.
I treat individuals, couples and families with a variety of struggles. Whether you are in need of help navigating present relationships, life transitions, or are struggling with lifelong issues, my education and experience can help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of approaches throughout the therapeutic process to meet the needs of the clients I see as they progress and work towards leading a happier, healthier life. My experience and training can help you grow and create the change for which you are looking.
(314) 403-1866 View (314) 403-1866
Photo of Lindsey Herzog, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkwood, MO
Lindsey Herzog
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
My practice focuses on specializing and treating a multitude of clinical concerns including eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, family issues, life transitions, and women's issues.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming. However, everyone deserves the chance to explore underlying struggles that may be impacting daily living, contentment and happiness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience. I have experience working with adults, young adults, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of clinical settings. My treatment approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I will help you set goals, examine unhealthy coping patterns and build on internal strengths. We will work together to learn healthier ways to navigate life's challenges.
My practice focuses on specializing and treating a multitude of clinical concerns including eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, family issues, life transitions, and women's issues.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming. However, everyone deserves the chance to explore underlying struggles that may be impacting daily living, contentment and happiness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience. I have experience working with adults, young adults, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of clinical settings. My treatment approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I will help you set goals, examine unhealthy coping patterns and build on internal strengths. We will work together to learn healthier ways to navigate life's challenges.
(314) 328-7580 View (314) 328-7580
Photo of Dr. Cherie Baetz-Davis, Psychologist in Kirkwood, MO
Dr. Cherie Baetz-Davis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Specialties: Physical/Sexual Abuse Survivors, Depression/Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Self-Injury, Binge Eating, Family/Couples, LGBTQ+ Issues, Stress, OCD, Multicultural Issues, Codependency/Assertiveness, Relationships, and Work-Related Issues.
If you need a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore, learn, and make changes, you've come to the right place! I work with people from diverse backgrounds in a compassionate manner focusing on improving communication, recovering from past trauma, and developing effective strategies for stress/coping. I am directive at times and will challenge you to take on new perspectives and try out new behaviors, but at a pace that is comfortable to you. I use cognitive-behavioral techniques, role-playing, goal setting, exposure/response prevention, assertiveness training, internal family systems, and others.
Specialties: Physical/Sexual Abuse Survivors, Depression/Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Self-Injury, Binge Eating, Family/Couples, LGBTQ+ Issues, Stress, OCD, Multicultural Issues, Codependency/Assertiveness, Relationships, and Work-Related Issues.
If you need a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to explore, learn, and make changes, you've come to the right place! I work with people from diverse backgrounds in a compassionate manner focusing on improving communication, recovering from past trauma, and developing effective strategies for stress/coping. I am directive at times and will challenge you to take on new perspectives and try out new behaviors, but at a pace that is comfortable to you. I use cognitive-behavioral techniques, role-playing, goal setting, exposure/response prevention, assertiveness training, internal family systems, and others.
(314) 720-6036 View (314) 720-6036
Photo of Amy Turk Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Amy Turk Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Our mental health is impacted by our physiology as well as a variety of environmental factors. My approach as a therapist is to get to know you and your unique story very well. In the process, we identify which parts play what role and how best to heal. I work collaboratively with you to optimize functioning, restore inner peace and find happiness. Allow me to help you along on your healing and growth journey.
Our mental health is impacted by our physiology as well as a variety of environmental factors. My approach as a therapist is to get to know you and your unique story very well. In the process, we identify which parts play what role and how best to heal. I work collaboratively with you to optimize functioning, restore inner peace and find happiness. Allow me to help you along on your healing and growth journey.
(314) 852-8543 View (314) 852-8543
Photo of Tara Hoppe Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Tara Hoppe Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already struggling and in need of support. I believe that feeling seen and heard can serve as a powerfully reparative experience, especially in a space of non-judgment and acceptance. I am honored and committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment to help clients connect with themselves in an authentic, safe, and self-compassionate way. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, utilizing a neuro-biologically focused approach that assists restoration of the authentic self with self-regulation, wholeness, and a sense of aliveness.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already struggling and in need of support. I believe that feeling seen and heard can serve as a powerfully reparative experience, especially in a space of non-judgment and acceptance. I am honored and committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment to help clients connect with themselves in an authentic, safe, and self-compassionate way. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, utilizing a neuro-biologically focused approach that assists restoration of the authentic self with self-regulation, wholeness, and a sense of aliveness.
(618) 268-3413 View (618) 268-3413
Photo of Nicole Cooper, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kirkwood, MO
Nicole Cooper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma or disordered eating? Are you feeling depressed or overwhelmed with constant worry? Are you experiencing difficulty with various relationships in your life? I have a deep passion for supporting others through their journey towards general wellbeing. I follow a holistic approach to therapy and place emphasis on total wellness. It is my mission to create a safe, welcoming, inclusive and non-judgemental space as we work together to help you overcome roadblocks.
Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma or disordered eating? Are you feeling depressed or overwhelmed with constant worry? Are you experiencing difficulty with various relationships in your life? I have a deep passion for supporting others through their journey towards general wellbeing. I follow a holistic approach to therapy and place emphasis on total wellness. It is my mission to create a safe, welcoming, inclusive and non-judgemental space as we work together to help you overcome roadblocks.
(314) 876-8209 View (314) 876-8209
Photo of Kelly Locker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Kelly Locker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
*Winner-Best of Kirkwood, 4 consecutive years in Counseling & Mental Health, 2016-2019! Welcome. Life can be hard, but I am committed to identifying and resolving your painful problem, getting you the Results you want quickly. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Hypnotherapist, providing you a safe, comfortable and supportive environment in which to achieve your Success! My approach is holistic and integrative, which means I use a variety of techniques and interventions to target the whole person (mind, body, and spirit) and I tailor them to each client and their unique, individual needs.
*Winner-Best of Kirkwood, 4 consecutive years in Counseling & Mental Health, 2016-2019! Welcome. Life can be hard, but I am committed to identifying and resolving your painful problem, getting you the Results you want quickly. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Hypnotherapist, providing you a safe, comfortable and supportive environment in which to achieve your Success! My approach is holistic and integrative, which means I use a variety of techniques and interventions to target the whole person (mind, body, and spirit) and I tailor them to each client and their unique, individual needs.
(314) 720-6124 View (314) 720-6124
Photo of Rebecca Ehrke, Psychologist in Kirkwood, MO
Rebecca Ehrke
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
My name is Rebecca Ehrke and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Certified EMDR therapist and practice owner of Lifestream Integrative Healing Center. I chose the name, "Lifestream", from the concept of the "stream of life" that Peter Levine refers to in Somatic Experiencing. When someone experiences a traumatic event, it can disrupt the flow of their life path. Lifestream Integrative Healing Center offers holistic trauma treatment that helps individuals heal and return to the lives they were innately meant to have.
My name is Rebecca Ehrke and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Certified EMDR therapist and practice owner of Lifestream Integrative Healing Center. I chose the name, "Lifestream", from the concept of the "stream of life" that Peter Levine refers to in Somatic Experiencing. When someone experiences a traumatic event, it can disrupt the flow of their life path. Lifestream Integrative Healing Center offers holistic trauma treatment that helps individuals heal and return to the lives they were innately meant to have.
(314) 804-1441 View (314) 804-1441
Photo of Creating Your Journey, LLC in Kirkwood, MO
Creating Your Journey, LLC
MA, LPC, ATR, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Are you struggling with disordered eating, negative body image, anxiety, depression, and/or unresolved trauma? Creating Your Journey has three therapist that specializes in treating eating disorders, body dysmorphia, mood disorder and trauma related disorders.
Are you struggling with disordered eating, negative body image, anxiety, depression, and/or unresolved trauma? Creating Your Journey has three therapist that specializes in treating eating disorders, body dysmorphia, mood disorder and trauma related disorders.
(314) 833-8865 View (314) 833-8865
Photo of Nicole Jacobs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Nicole Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Are you struggling with obsessive thoughts about food and body size? Do you feel guilty every night when you go to sleep? Overcoming disordered eating can be a daunting task on your own. I am here to help you challenge these obsessive thought patterns and live a life free from body shame and work towards normalizing food patterns. You don’t have to fight the fight alone. I believe all people deserve to have a healthy relationship with food, their body, and movement.
Are you struggling with obsessive thoughts about food and body size? Do you feel guilty every night when you go to sleep? Overcoming disordered eating can be a daunting task on your own. I am here to help you challenge these obsessive thought patterns and live a life free from body shame and work towards normalizing food patterns. You don’t have to fight the fight alone. I believe all people deserve to have a healthy relationship with food, their body, and movement.
(314) 328-8646 View (314) 328-8646
Photo of Kim Callaway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kirkwood, MO
Kim Callaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Have you found that no matter how hard you work on your relationship, you're not experiencing the type of spark and connection you long for? Are you struggling to make peace with a recent breakup or divorce? Do you find yourself grappling with feelings of anxiety, loneliness, or anger? Whether I am working with you as an individual or a couple, my goal is to help you piece together the puzzle of how your past is impacting your present.
Have you found that no matter how hard you work on your relationship, you're not experiencing the type of spark and connection you long for? Are you struggling to make peace with a recent breakup or divorce? Do you find yourself grappling with feelings of anxiety, loneliness, or anger? Whether I am working with you as an individual or a couple, my goal is to help you piece together the puzzle of how your past is impacting your present.
(314) 696-6080 View (314) 696-6080
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.