Photo of Maya L Cortes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Maya L Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LCDCIII, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping people who have always felt like the black sheep/the truth tellers in their family find their voice and their individual value.
If you have been to many therapists and feel like you are just another nameless face. I see you. If other providers have told you, you are too much I see you. If your family or loved ones have made you feel worthless, I see you. If you have always felt different or you just didn't fit in I see you. I am here to help anyone, whomever you are. If you are struggling with trauma, narcissistic relationships, alcohol or drug addiction, self-harm or self abuse I will hold space for you. I will help you develop the tools to feel seen and recover for the long-term. Nothing is a quick fix and therapy is the long-game.
I specialize in helping people who have always felt like the black sheep/the truth tellers in their family find their voice and their individual value.
If you have been to many therapists and feel like you are just another nameless face. I see you. If other providers have told you, you are too much I see you. If your family or loved ones have made you feel worthless, I see you. If you have always felt different or you just didn't fit in I see you. I am here to help anyone, whomever you are. If you are struggling with trauma, narcissistic relationships, alcohol or drug addiction, self-harm or self abuse I will hold space for you. I will help you develop the tools to feel seen and recover for the long-term. Nothing is a quick fix and therapy is the long-game.
(330) 845-6015 View (330) 845-6015
Photo of Ashley Dudinsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Ashley Dudinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, ADN, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
Together we will figure out individually and as a family, what your strengths are, what your needs are, what your goals are, how you want to feel, and what you want to gain out of our time together.
My foundation in therapy has always been working with children, teens, families and women's mental health. Each person is unique, and each situation is different. My purpose is to help you design a plan to address whatever it may be that you are wanting to work on. I love to incorporate different methods and approaches such as bringing in art interventions, games, music, reading to accompany traditional treatment perspectives. One quote I love is- It's not about what it is, it's about what it can become- Dr. Seuss. I love to explore the past, present and then develop a beautiful future vision.
Together we will figure out individually and as a family, what your strengths are, what your needs are, what your goals are, how you want to feel, and what you want to gain out of our time together.
My foundation in therapy has always been working with children, teens, families and women's mental health. Each person is unique, and each situation is different. My purpose is to help you design a plan to address whatever it may be that you are wanting to work on. I love to incorporate different methods and approaches such as bringing in art interventions, games, music, reading to accompany traditional treatment perspectives. One quote I love is- It's not about what it is, it's about what it can become- Dr. Seuss. I love to explore the past, present and then develop a beautiful future vision.
(216) 340-9915 View (216) 340-9915
Photo of Rachel Kay Kingswood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Rachel Kay Kingswood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CDCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an ecclectic approach that borrows from multiple techniques and schools of thought based on your unique needs including: mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, narrative therapy, DBT, and psychoeducation.
Have you tried therapy before, but it didn't help? Feeling stuck or unsure of what you need to heal? Using a holistic integrative approach, I can help you find your footing, learn to trust yourself more, and worry less about things outside your control. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety disorders learn to work with their brain and body to live their most authentic and joyful lives. I also enjoy helping couples and families of all kinds (poly, blended, foster/adoptive, etc.) learn how to build relationships based on respect, empathy, and curiosity.
I use an ecclectic approach that borrows from multiple techniques and schools of thought based on your unique needs including: mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, narrative therapy, DBT, and psychoeducation.
Have you tried therapy before, but it didn't help? Feeling stuck or unsure of what you need to heal? Using a holistic integrative approach, I can help you find your footing, learn to trust yourself more, and worry less about things outside your control. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety disorders learn to work with their brain and body to live their most authentic and joyful lives. I also enjoy helping couples and families of all kinds (poly, blended, foster/adoptive, etc.) learn how to build relationships based on respect, empathy, and curiosity.
(216) 677-2965 View (216) 677-2965
Photo of Karryl J Lindsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Karryl J Lindsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC-S, SAP
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
I very much enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families. I specialize in working with individuals/families challenged in their relationships and choices due to a difficulty in identifying and sharing their thoughts and emotions appropriately. I enjoy assisting clients in addressing issues and/or emotions that have caused problems in one's relationships in the home, community, and/or the workplace. Those impacted by substance abuse, both individually or as a family member are also welcomed. Other areas of focus include grief recovery, anger management; faith-based; ADHD; and whatever challenges you in life.
I very much enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families. I specialize in working with individuals/families challenged in their relationships and choices due to a difficulty in identifying and sharing their thoughts and emotions appropriately. I enjoy assisting clients in addressing issues and/or emotions that have caused problems in one's relationships in the home, community, and/or the workplace. Those impacted by substance abuse, both individually or as a family member are also welcomed. Other areas of focus include grief recovery, anger management; faith-based; ADHD; and whatever challenges you in life.
(216) 672-5462 View (216) 672-5462
Photo of Norman James Cerny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Norman James Cerny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106  (Online Only)
Hi there and welcome to Mind Trek Counseling! My name is Norman Cerny. I am a counselor who works with clients of all ages and a variety of issues. My experience and focus have been in trauma-focused care, LGBTQ issues, self-harm, addiction, and family and relationship conflicts. I have a focus on transitional youth meaning teens and young adults but have and will work with people of all ages. I believe we are our best when we can live as our true authentic self in our everyday life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, stuck, or just unsure what to do next I would love the opportunity to help you through life's transit
Hi there and welcome to Mind Trek Counseling! My name is Norman Cerny. I am a counselor who works with clients of all ages and a variety of issues. My experience and focus have been in trauma-focused care, LGBTQ issues, self-harm, addiction, and family and relationship conflicts. I have a focus on transitional youth meaning teens and young adults but have and will work with people of all ages. I believe we are our best when we can live as our true authentic self in our everyday life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, stuck, or just unsure what to do next I would love the opportunity to help you through life's transit
(216) 999-5547 View (216) 999-5547
Photo of Cindy Kaufman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Cindy Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
(440) 530-9191 View (440) 530-9191
Photo of Fit Mind Cleveland , Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Fit Mind Cleveland
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, -S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
The primary focus of my practice and clinical work is always meeting the client where they are. I work with teens and adults and families to assess need and work toward solutions. This work always begins with the development of a positive and trusting relationship. During the past few years in particular many clients have developed severe depression, anxiety, and substance due to isolation, fear and uncertainty. I look at family history, degree of functioning and personal goals prior to commencing. I am endlessly fascinated by people and love everyday I spend working.
The primary focus of my practice and clinical work is always meeting the client where they are. I work with teens and adults and families to assess need and work toward solutions. This work always begins with the development of a positive and trusting relationship. During the past few years in particular many clients have developed severe depression, anxiety, and substance due to isolation, fear and uncertainty. I look at family history, degree of functioning and personal goals prior to commencing. I am endlessly fascinated by people and love everyday I spend working.
(216) 666-5890 View (216) 666-5890
Photo of Tamar Albert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Tamar Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
I am committed to help you achieve a better parent-child relationship and family dynamics.
As a mental health provider I assist children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mental health symptoms. I engage, assess, diagnose, and apply behavioral theories to develop an effective treatment plan. During psychotherapy we address their unique situation, such as personal problems involving mental health, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, and/or Trauma, to reduce the symptoms of mental health.
I am committed to help you achieve a better parent-child relationship and family dynamics.
As a mental health provider I assist children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mental health symptoms. I engage, assess, diagnose, and apply behavioral theories to develop an effective treatment plan. During psychotherapy we address their unique situation, such as personal problems involving mental health, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, and/or Trauma, to reduce the symptoms of mental health.
(216) 584-9225 View (216) 584-9225
Photo of Patchwork Counseling , Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Patchwork Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44112
A few of my most important personal values: family, integrity, creativity, and hard-work.
Feeling stuck? I work with teens, young adults, couples, men, and women who are having a hard time finding their way. I work from a practical - solution focused theory, and enjoy making a true connection with my clients. Accepting one's past and making a commitment to change one's future is what I think counseling is all about. I provide individual and couples counseling and have a wide range of experiences. I specialize in women's issues, perinatal concerns, relationship difficulties, parenting, and life transitions. Visit my website to request a free initial consultation appointment!
A few of my most important personal values: family, integrity, creativity, and hard-work.
Feeling stuck? I work with teens, young adults, couples, men, and women who are having a hard time finding their way. I work from a practical - solution focused theory, and enjoy making a true connection with my clients. Accepting one's past and making a commitment to change one's future is what I think counseling is all about. I provide individual and couples counseling and have a wide range of experiences. I specialize in women's issues, perinatal concerns, relationship difficulties, parenting, and life transitions. Visit my website to request a free initial consultation appointment!
(216) 999-5826 View (216) 999-5826
Photo of Johnita Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Johnita Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44121  (Online Only)
My specialty includes working with adolescents, adults, couples and family units.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues? Are you looking for a safe and judgement-free environment where you can share your problems and concerns? If so, then let’s get to work!!! Life is too short to surrender to toxic relationships, let trauma consume you, continue to be anxious or be depressed. You deserve to live a life full of peace and joy. Let’s work together to help you develop healthy coping skills and find meaningful purpose in your family, friendships, work, spirituality, and all other life areas.
My specialty includes working with adolescents, adults, couples and family units.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues? Are you looking for a safe and judgement-free environment where you can share your problems and concerns? If so, then let’s get to work!!! Life is too short to surrender to toxic relationships, let trauma consume you, continue to be anxious or be depressed. You deserve to live a life full of peace and joy. Let’s work together to help you develop healthy coping skills and find meaningful purpose in your family, friendships, work, spirituality, and all other life areas.
(216) 307-7765 View (216) 307-7765
Photo of Lola A Whatley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Lola A Whatley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44112
I desire to assist people to live an abundant life by gaining skills to cope with life’s challenges. I strive to empower people to overcome cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and social challenges by increasing their coping, stress management, and conflict resolution skills. I am honored God has permitted me to use my professional experiences and faith to provided personalized techniques to assist people to heal from the emotional scars of grief, guilt, shame, rejection, and remorse to achieve their personal, professional, social, and family goals.
I desire to assist people to live an abundant life by gaining skills to cope with life’s challenges. I strive to empower people to overcome cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and social challenges by increasing their coping, stress management, and conflict resolution skills. I am honored God has permitted me to use my professional experiences and faith to provided personalized techniques to assist people to heal from the emotional scars of grief, guilt, shame, rejection, and remorse to achieve their personal, professional, social, and family goals.
(216) 208-6920 View (216) 208-6920
Photo of Tracy Carol Doran, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Tracy Carol Doran
Counselor, LPCC-S, ATR-BC, MA
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
I have 22+ years of experience and enjoy doing individual, group, family and couples therapy with adults, children and adolescents with a variety of diagnoses.
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision endorsement, Board Certified Art Therapist, and graduate of clinical training program at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. I provide a safe, supportive space in which healing can begin and utilize a holistic, person centered approach. I focus on each individual's strengths and provide support to enhance coping skills. I use holistic, expressive therapies to increase self-esteem, self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts, and promote personal growth.
I have 22+ years of experience and enjoy doing individual, group, family and couples therapy with adults, children and adolescents with a variety of diagnoses.
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision endorsement, Board Certified Art Therapist, and graduate of clinical training program at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. I provide a safe, supportive space in which healing can begin and utilize a holistic, person centered approach. I focus on each individual's strengths and provide support to enhance coping skills. I use holistic, expressive therapies to increase self-esteem, self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts, and promote personal growth.
(216) 586-2022 View (216) 586-2022
Photo of Kimera Dean, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Kimera Dean
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44112
I also use family systems to help people break negative generational patterns, and trauma therapy for those who are seeking relief from trauma symptoms.
My passion as a therapist is to help people heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically from all walks of life. I am dedicated to walking with my clients on a healing journey that promotes healthy thinking and rediscovering how to improve their overall well being. My interests is in helping clients whom are teens, adults 18+, and the aging community that deal with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma-related experiences, healing from childhood trauma, parenting coaching and support, career coaching, and issues with self-esteem.
I also use family systems to help people break negative generational patterns, and trauma therapy for those who are seeking relief from trauma symptoms.
My passion as a therapist is to help people heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically from all walks of life. I am dedicated to walking with my clients on a healing journey that promotes healthy thinking and rediscovering how to improve their overall well being. My interests is in helping clients whom are teens, adults 18+, and the aging community that deal with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma-related experiences, healing from childhood trauma, parenting coaching and support, career coaching, and issues with self-esteem.
(216) 609-0951 View (216) 609-0951
Photo of Aqueelah Wheatley, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Aqueelah Wheatley
Counselor, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Therapy is not a quick fix, if done correctly, you will feel more, learn more, grow more, and work harder than you have ever done to achieve the best version of yourself you have ever been. My ideal client is dedicated, and consistent with themselves and their motivation to change. In exchange, I can promise that I will always match your effort, I will challenge you to challenge yourself, and will hold you accountable to be the catalyst of change in your own life
Therapy is not a quick fix, if done correctly, you will feel more, learn more, grow more, and work harder than you have ever done to achieve the best version of yourself you have ever been. My ideal client is dedicated, and consistent with themselves and their motivation to change. In exchange, I can promise that I will always match your effort, I will challenge you to challenge yourself, and will hold you accountable to be the catalyst of change in your own life
(216) 294-3074 View (216) 294-3074
Photo of Shirley Zhao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Shirley Zhao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Hello, there. I want to express how glad I am that you have taken this important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being, and I would be genuinely happy to join you on your journey. Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and PTSD. And it has absolutely become my passion to work with each of you for these issues. If you would like to, please go to my website I posted under my profile picture to learn more about me.
Hello, there. I want to express how glad I am that you have taken this important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being, and I would be genuinely happy to join you on your journey. Throughout my years as a therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who have experienced mental health challenges related to sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and PTSD. And it has absolutely become my passion to work with each of you for these issues. If you would like to, please go to my website I posted under my profile picture to learn more about me.
(216) 677-3930 View (216) 677-3930
Photo of Mind Trek Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Mind Trek Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
We believe you can change by focusing on what is important to you, and your strengths. Our expertise is working with ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Childhood & Adulthood Trauma, Relationship, Couple’s issues, Racial identity, and other Identities. (Our website provides much more information about us: www.mindtrekcounseling.com)
We believe you can change by focusing on what is important to you, and your strengths. Our expertise is working with ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Childhood & Adulthood Trauma, Relationship, Couple’s issues, Racial identity, and other Identities. (Our website provides much more information about us: www.mindtrekcounseling.com)
(216) 616-7563 View (216) 616-7563
Photo of Samantha Hoch, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Samantha Hoch
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I provide teletherapy to adults of all genders who live in the state of Ohio. Therapy can feel uncomfortable at times because change is difficult, so my hope is to create an environment where you can be authentic and share your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is warm and person-centered with a trauma-informed perspective to learn about how your past experiences have impacted you. I offer therapy that is LGBTQ+ affirming.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I provide teletherapy to adults of all genders who live in the state of Ohio. Therapy can feel uncomfortable at times because change is difficult, so my hope is to create an environment where you can be authentic and share your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is warm and person-centered with a trauma-informed perspective to learn about how your past experiences have impacted you. I offer therapy that is LGBTQ+ affirming.
(216) 666-5653 View (216) 666-5653
Photo of Madeline Hodgman-Korth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Madeline Hodgman-Korth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
For many of us, anxiety, depression, and life stressors can be thought of like a wave that we ride throughout our lives. Sometimes the surf is good, and we can do so easily. Other times it might be choppy, and we have to use our resources and know-how to stay afloat. In bad times, it can feel like the waves are pulling you under. As a therapist, I strive to help clients navigate uncertain tides by processing these experiences together, drawing on their strengths, and improving coping skills.
For many of us, anxiety, depression, and life stressors can be thought of like a wave that we ride throughout our lives. Sometimes the surf is good, and we can do so easily. Other times it might be choppy, and we have to use our resources and know-how to stay afloat. In bad times, it can feel like the waves are pulling you under. As a therapist, I strive to help clients navigate uncertain tides by processing these experiences together, drawing on their strengths, and improving coping skills.
(440) 598-5638 View (440) 598-5638
Photo of Adam Qin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Adam Qin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
I believe you can change by focusing on what is important to you, and your strengths. My expertise is working with ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Childhood & Adulthood Trauma, Relationship, and Couple’s issues. (Check my website if you're interested in more details of my approach)
I believe you can change by focusing on what is important to you, and your strengths. My expertise is working with ADHD, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Childhood & Adulthood Trauma, Relationship, and Couple’s issues. (Check my website if you're interested in more details of my approach)
(216) 868-4841 View (216) 868-4841
Photo of Hamilton Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Hamilton Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or overly stressed? Counseling can be a great first step to getting more peace of mind. I have experience in working with Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress, Grief, Chemical Dependency, Mood Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Trauma, Career Counseling, Relationship, and Couple’s issues. Together we can help you learn about your Diagnosis, create a Treatment plan specialized for you, find coping skills, and reduce the symptoms you are struggling with.
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or overly stressed? Counseling can be a great first step to getting more peace of mind. I have experience in working with Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress, Grief, Chemical Dependency, Mood Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Trauma, Career Counseling, Relationship, and Couple’s issues. Together we can help you learn about your Diagnosis, create a Treatment plan specialized for you, find coping skills, and reduce the symptoms you are struggling with.
(216) 284-0346 View (216) 284-0346

See more therapy options for Cleveland Heights


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.