Photo of Karen Lau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Karen Lau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Clients come to me due to anxiety, grief and trauma related concerns while facing stressors and life transitions. Life is difficult when you are experiencing mental health struggles due to health, family or marital situations, dating hardships, work conflict and/or past life experiences. It affects self confidence. You could be struggling while navigating the impact of immigration, cultural background, identity, inter-generational differences, interpersonal challenges, and career demands on your worldview and yourself. As an Asian therapist, I not only have familiarity but also cultural competency in helping APIDA individuals.
Clients come to me due to anxiety, grief and trauma related concerns while facing stressors and life transitions. Life is difficult when you are experiencing mental health struggles due to health, family or marital situations, dating hardships, work conflict and/or past life experiences. It affects self confidence. You could be struggling while navigating the impact of immigration, cultural background, identity, inter-generational differences, interpersonal challenges, and career demands on your worldview and yourself. As an Asian therapist, I not only have familiarity but also cultural competency in helping APIDA individuals.
(925) 304-3846 View (925) 304-3846
Photo of Autumm Beard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Autumm Beard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I have training to address trauma, work stress, cultural/racial issues, relationship and family conflict, parenting, grief, depression & anxiety.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by trying to be everything to everyone? Perhaps you are exhausted by all the effort it takes to "push through" and life feels like you’re just going through the motions? If this is you- Sawubona (sow:'bɔh:nah)- I see you. You are strong, intelligent, hard working and resourceful but you may also be struggling with feeling tired, disconnected, and burnt out. If you are searching for new ways to cope- I can help.
I have training to address trauma, work stress, cultural/racial issues, relationship and family conflict, parenting, grief, depression & anxiety.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by trying to be everything to everyone? Perhaps you are exhausted by all the effort it takes to "push through" and life feels like you’re just going through the motions? If this is you- Sawubona (sow:'bɔh:nah)- I see you. You are strong, intelligent, hard working and resourceful but you may also be struggling with feeling tired, disconnected, and burnt out. If you are searching for new ways to cope- I can help.
(510) 944-0667 View (510) 944-0667
Photo of Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
If you are seeking help for yourself, your relationship or your child or family, consider calling Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center for more information.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
If you are seeking help for yourself, your relationship or your child or family, consider calling Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center for more information.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
(510) 858-0916 View (510) 858-0916
Photo of Nekolas Milton, Psychological Associate in Oakland, CA
Nekolas Milton
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
(415) 851-8356 View (415) 851-8356
Photo of Natalie Jones, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Natalie Jones
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I can help you heal from narcissistic abuse experienced in your family, intimate relationships, friendships, and in the workplace.
When you are in a relationship with a narcissist, you don't know what's real anymore. Somewhere along the way you have gotten lost in the cycle of toxicity and you are unsure of how to get out. You feel powerless and you try to explain to others what's going on, but they don't understand. You have a hard time explaining the manipulation, gaslighting, love bombing, and trauma bonding. You have a hard time hiding how you really feel behind your smile. You have lost yourself in your relationship, and what's worse - you don't feel happy or connected to anyone. You long for a safe place to unload your heavy burdens.
I can help you heal from narcissistic abuse experienced in your family, intimate relationships, friendships, and in the workplace.
When you are in a relationship with a narcissist, you don't know what's real anymore. Somewhere along the way you have gotten lost in the cycle of toxicity and you are unsure of how to get out. You feel powerless and you try to explain to others what's going on, but they don't understand. You have a hard time explaining the manipulation, gaslighting, love bombing, and trauma bonding. You have a hard time hiding how you really feel behind your smile. You have lost yourself in your relationship, and what's worse - you don't feel happy or connected to anyone. You long for a safe place to unload your heavy burdens.
(415) 322-5527 View (415) 322-5527
Photo of Michelle Grebe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Michelle Grebe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
I'm dually licensed as a marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor.
Are you looking for a more joyous and purposeful life? I'm here to help! I believe you enter therapy already equipped for the transformation you seek.
I'm dually licensed as a marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor.
Are you looking for a more joyous and purposeful life? I'm here to help! I believe you enter therapy already equipped for the transformation you seek.
(341) 758-5197 View (341) 758-5197
Photo of Tecsia Evans, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Tecsia Evans
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Seeking individual, couples or family therapy, Christian counseling, leadership or business coaching? Your Therapy Now is here to help you reach your goals.
Dr. Evans at Your Therapy Now, provides quality clinical and assessment services for the everyday person. Our focus is to collaborate with you and identify concrete goals for your emotional health, create a plan that helps you achieve these goals and provide a supportive space that empowers you along the way. Our model is simple: therapy is meant to equip you with the tools you need, as you need them, to make the changes you desire to see in your life.
Seeking individual, couples or family therapy, Christian counseling, leadership or business coaching? Your Therapy Now is here to help you reach your goals.
Dr. Evans at Your Therapy Now, provides quality clinical and assessment services for the everyday person. Our focus is to collaborate with you and identify concrete goals for your emotional health, create a plan that helps you achieve these goals and provide a supportive space that empowers you along the way. Our model is simple: therapy is meant to equip you with the tools you need, as you need them, to make the changes you desire to see in your life.
(510) 369-1495 View (510) 369-1495
Photo of Jessica Knott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jessica Knott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Jessica Knott, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Client-Centered approaches. In sessions, my communication style is empathetic, supportive, and non-judgmental. I create a safe and open environment where clients feel heard and understood. Working with me is collaborative, focused on your unique needs, and aimed at fostering a sense of empowerment and positive change.
Jessica Knott, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Client-Centered approaches. In sessions, my communication style is empathetic, supportive, and non-judgmental. I create a safe and open environment where clients feel heard and understood. Working with me is collaborative, focused on your unique needs, and aimed at fostering a sense of empowerment and positive change.
(510) 345-0750 View (510) 345-0750
Photo of Theresa Ann Razzano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Theresa Ann Razzano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CRC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I have begun training on Internal Family Systems, and have training and education in drug and alcohol and family systems settings.
What's happening in your life today? How can I help? Some need to address painful life barriers they are faced with due to depression, anxiety or trauma. Others want to figure out why their interpersonal relationships are conflicted and stressful or that they still haven't met the person they want to be with. Sometimes people come because their past has limited their future, and they need to get it all out on the table and figure out how not to be constrained in achieving their personal goals. How about you?
I have begun training on Internal Family Systems, and have training and education in drug and alcohol and family systems settings.
What's happening in your life today? How can I help? Some need to address painful life barriers they are faced with due to depression, anxiety or trauma. Others want to figure out why their interpersonal relationships are conflicted and stressful or that they still haven't met the person they want to be with. Sometimes people come because their past has limited their future, and they need to get it all out on the table and figure out how not to be constrained in achieving their personal goals. How about you?
(510) 660-0136 View (510) 660-0136
Photo of Tricia Kim Walsh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Tricia Kim Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy style is warm and non-judgmental, using humanistic and family systemic techniques which include attachment, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused approaches.
Do you feel depleted from finding the "right fit" couples or individual therapist? Have you just entered into a new developmental life phase (relocation/college/graduation/job change/new relationship/engagement/marriage/separation, etc.). Or maybe your mood, anxiety, communication and/or relational problems have you so stuck, you can no longer can focus on what is most important in your life. I am an authentic and integrative therapist who is focused on helping you find your own solutions and voice. I specialize in work with individual adults, teens and families. Call or message me for a free 20 minute telephone consultation today.
My therapy style is warm and non-judgmental, using humanistic and family systemic techniques which include attachment, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused approaches.
Do you feel depleted from finding the "right fit" couples or individual therapist? Have you just entered into a new developmental life phase (relocation/college/graduation/job change/new relationship/engagement/marriage/separation, etc.). Or maybe your mood, anxiety, communication and/or relational problems have you so stuck, you can no longer can focus on what is most important in your life. I am an authentic and integrative therapist who is focused on helping you find your own solutions and voice. I specialize in work with individual adults, teens and families. Call or message me for a free 20 minute telephone consultation today.
(925) 392-0834 View (925) 392-0834
Photo of Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
We provide couples therapy (including pre-marital counseling), family therapy (both adult families and adult & child families), individual therapy, adolescent, child therapy and massage therapy.
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates is a holistic and psychotherapy practice. You will find our practice to be a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our staff is well trained and effective proven strategies. We incorporate a multi ethnic as well as mind, body, and spiritual perspectives in addressing your concerns. We are committed to supporting you to recognize your dreams and living your life to the fullest. If you're feeling stuck or trapped in any way, we have expertise in assessing and helping you to identify what's contributing to you being stuck and offering coping strategies to help you becoming free.
We provide couples therapy (including pre-marital counseling), family therapy (both adult families and adult & child families), individual therapy, adolescent, child therapy and massage therapy.
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates is a holistic and psychotherapy practice. You will find our practice to be a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our staff is well trained and effective proven strategies. We incorporate a multi ethnic as well as mind, body, and spiritual perspectives in addressing your concerns. We are committed to supporting you to recognize your dreams and living your life to the fullest. If you're feeling stuck or trapped in any way, we have expertise in assessing and helping you to identify what's contributing to you being stuck and offering coping strategies to help you becoming free.
(510) 808-6296 View (510) 808-6296
Photo of Ana Batan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
(510) 726-0593 View (510) 726-0593
Photo of Tiffany Justine, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Tiffany Justine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
My name is Tiffany Trent, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in treating trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I have extensive experience and passion working with and treating teenagers and adults with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, trauma, PTSD, identity issues, self-harming behaviors, and suicidal ideation. I take an eclectic approach to therapy and utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, Narrative, CBT, and Psychodynamic modalities in therapy and individualize therapy to fit the person rather than try to fit the complexities of a human being into a modality.
My name is Tiffany Trent, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in treating trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I have extensive experience and passion working with and treating teenagers and adults with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, trauma, PTSD, identity issues, self-harming behaviors, and suicidal ideation. I take an eclectic approach to therapy and utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, Narrative, CBT, and Psychodynamic modalities in therapy and individualize therapy to fit the person rather than try to fit the complexities of a human being into a modality.
(559) 238-0277 View (559) 238-0277
Photo of Anisha Holden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Anisha Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
Hey there! My name is Anisha Holden, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family therapist. I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples and families that are interested in working of differing backgrounds/cultures. Often, clients that are in the process of transitioning to a new stage in life are attracted to working with me. Whether it is becoming a spouse or parent, moving into a new position, graduating, or just simply changing from one state of being to another, my aim is to provide the necessary support to do so successfully. With any change, comes anxiety, depression, indecision, and so on.
Hey there! My name is Anisha Holden, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family therapist. I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples and families that are interested in working of differing backgrounds/cultures. Often, clients that are in the process of transitioning to a new stage in life are attracted to working with me. Whether it is becoming a spouse or parent, moving into a new position, graduating, or just simply changing from one state of being to another, my aim is to provide the necessary support to do so successfully. With any change, comes anxiety, depression, indecision, and so on.
(661) 768-1257 View (661) 768-1257
Photo of Gabriela Cibrian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Gabriela Cibrian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
My name is Gabriela Cibrian and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. My passion is working with individuals and families to help them understand behavioral patterns within themselves to help them make positive changes. My style and approach to therapy are a good fit for children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma and symptoms related to stress, anxiety, and depression. I specialize in working with clients to help them understand trauma responses and formulate a plan to create healthier thought patterns that lead to healthier behavioral patterns.
My name is Gabriela Cibrian and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. My passion is working with individuals and families to help them understand behavioral patterns within themselves to help them make positive changes. My style and approach to therapy are a good fit for children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma and symptoms related to stress, anxiety, and depression. I specialize in working with clients to help them understand trauma responses and formulate a plan to create healthier thought patterns that lead to healthier behavioral patterns.
(209) 802-0574 View (209) 802-0574
Photo of Bridge the Gap Addiction and Mental Health Service, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Oakland, CA
Bridge the Gap Addiction and Mental Health Service
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCADC, LAACD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
We place special emphasis on all addiction disorders moderate and chronic issues. We specialize in non-medical detoxification that place emphasis's on spirituality. We promote abstinence by providing individualized treatment plans, family education, legal resources, local community resources, and Twelve Step groups. We provide other valuable classes court ordered domestic violence (men & women), driver under the influence and marriage/relationship classes. We offer four hour marijuana education classes.
We place special emphasis on all addiction disorders moderate and chronic issues. We specialize in non-medical detoxification that place emphasis's on spirituality. We promote abstinence by providing individualized treatment plans, family education, legal resources, local community resources, and Twelve Step groups. We provide other valuable classes court ordered domestic violence (men & women), driver under the influence and marriage/relationship classes. We offer four hour marijuana education classes.
(502) 547-8096 View (502) 547-8096
Photo of Rachel Winters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Rachel Winters
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Co-occurring disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Families/ Family Systems, Spirituality, Women.
During your sessions I hope to create a consistent, safe, nurturing environment for growth and healing. The primary goal of our time together will be for me to support you in becoming the best version of yourself possible. We will build on your strengths and carefully unpack the underlying themes in your life. As a result, you will gain a deeper understanding of your past and present experiences while, taking steps toward creating the life you love. I will utilize motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach to support you in this journey.
Specialty areas include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Co-occurring disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Families/ Family Systems, Spirituality, Women.
During your sessions I hope to create a consistent, safe, nurturing environment for growth and healing. The primary goal of our time together will be for me to support you in becoming the best version of yourself possible. We will build on your strengths and carefully unpack the underlying themes in your life. As a result, you will gain a deeper understanding of your past and present experiences while, taking steps toward creating the life you love. I will utilize motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach to support you in this journey.
(626) 603-8196 View (626) 603-8196
Photo of Chonnie Thiessen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Chonnie Thiessen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
I'm Chonnie Thiessen, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others. I have a master's degree in marriage and family counseling and over 10 years of experience in providing effective and compassionate therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I work with individuals aged 12-99 who are dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I also work with couples and families.
I'm Chonnie Thiessen, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others. I have a master's degree in marriage and family counseling and over 10 years of experience in providing effective and compassionate therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I work with individuals aged 12-99 who are dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I also work with couples and families.
(408) 465-4952 View (408) 465-4952
Photo of The Village Mental Health Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
The Village Mental Health Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
My name is Tanisha Simpson and my clinical experience includes working with children, teens, and adults with severe mental illnesses and individuals in crisis. I am a compassionate, solutions-oriented professional dedicated to providing exceptional care and devising creative treatment plans for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with multiple issues. I developed a passion and personal commitment to two things: fostering a positive learning environment for individuals with various backgrounds and maximizing individual and family performance.
My name is Tanisha Simpson and my clinical experience includes working with children, teens, and adults with severe mental illnesses and individuals in crisis. I am a compassionate, solutions-oriented professional dedicated to providing exceptional care and devising creative treatment plans for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with multiple issues. I developed a passion and personal commitment to two things: fostering a positive learning environment for individuals with various backgrounds and maximizing individual and family performance.
(951) 420-7370 View (951) 420-7370
Photo of Catherine Metzger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Catherine Metzger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Some of the reasons children, adolescents, and adults see me are: Gender identity and expression; Emotion regulation; Family and life transitions; Depression; Loss, or grief; Anxiety; Relationship or job dissatisfaction; School related stress; Trauma; and Living with chronic illness.
Sometimes life poses challenges or does not work out the way we hoped. At some point, everyone needs help during difficult times. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. I love working with people of all ages. I am deeply committed to meeting you and/or your child wherever you/they are so that over time you can find more ease and clarity in your daily and inner life.
Some of the reasons children, adolescents, and adults see me are: Gender identity and expression; Emotion regulation; Family and life transitions; Depression; Loss, or grief; Anxiety; Relationship or job dissatisfaction; School related stress; Trauma; and Living with chronic illness.
Sometimes life poses challenges or does not work out the way we hoped. At some point, everyone needs help during difficult times. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. I love working with people of all ages. I am deeply committed to meeting you and/or your child wherever you/they are so that over time you can find more ease and clarity in your daily and inner life.
(341) 895-5774 View (341) 895-5774

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.