Photo of Emery Jefferies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Emery Jefferies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21409  (Online Only)
Dedicated and committed, I am a qualified and experienced therapist, helping individuals make positive changes in their lives. My main focus is on supporting clients struggling with depression and anxiety, and those who may be experiencing panic attacks or post-traumatic stress disorder. I also work with individuals who are dealing with unresolved issues from past traumas or challenging family relationships, as well as those coping with the loss of a loved one.
Dedicated and committed, I am a qualified and experienced therapist, helping individuals make positive changes in their lives. My main focus is on supporting clients struggling with depression and anxiety, and those who may be experiencing panic attacks or post-traumatic stress disorder. I also work with individuals who are dealing with unresolved issues from past traumas or challenging family relationships, as well as those coping with the loss of a loved one.
(410) 604-8283 View (410) 604-8283
Photo of Lisa Bridges, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lisa Bridges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I specialize in issues affecting members of the adoption community but love working with people from all family backgrounds and situations.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe it's due to anxiety, a change in life circumstances, or relationship issues. Or maybe you've reached the limits of what you can figure out on your own. If you’re willing to show up, I’m here to help.
I specialize in issues affecting members of the adoption community but love working with people from all family backgrounds and situations.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe it's due to anxiety, a change in life circumstances, or relationship issues. Or maybe you've reached the limits of what you can figure out on your own. If you’re willing to show up, I’m here to help.
(443) 775-2241 View (443) 775-2241
Photo of Virginia Barnes Ricketts, MS, LCPC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Virginia Barnes Ricketts, MS, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I also work with individuals who have no prior mental health diagnosis, but who are encountering life or family transitions and want supportive counseling to achieve greater wellness and peak performance.
I am a counselor and psychotherapist working with adults ages 21 and above as well as couples. My training and experience includes a broad range of mental health conditions. I use an integrative and strengths-based approach to therapy that emphasizes cognitive change and emotion-regulation. My style in working with clients is interactive and educational. Client goals are central to the therapy process.
I also work with individuals who have no prior mental health diagnosis, but who are encountering life or family transitions and want supportive counseling to achieve greater wellness and peak performance.
I am a counselor and psychotherapist working with adults ages 21 and above as well as couples. My training and experience includes a broad range of mental health conditions. I use an integrative and strengths-based approach to therapy that emphasizes cognitive change and emotion-regulation. My style in working with clients is interactive and educational. Client goals are central to the therapy process.
(410) 472-5101 View (410) 472-5101
Photo of Tim L Mewmaw, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Tim L Mewmaw
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
In addition to individual psychotherapy, small group process, and couples/family counseling, I also offer professional workshops and staff training.
Exhausted, sad, angry or overwhelmed? When in the throes of negative feelings, it’s often easy to forget that they serve as signposts for boundary violations or unmet needs. Just as hunger, cold and other uncomfortable sensations shift to a sense of comfort or satisfaction when the need is met, emotional distress likewise transitions to a sense of fullness, wholeness or connectedness whenever the needs which underlie it are met.
In addition to individual psychotherapy, small group process, and couples/family counseling, I also offer professional workshops and staff training.
Exhausted, sad, angry or overwhelmed? When in the throes of negative feelings, it’s often easy to forget that they serve as signposts for boundary violations or unmet needs. Just as hunger, cold and other uncomfortable sensations shift to a sense of comfort or satisfaction when the need is met, emotional distress likewise transitions to a sense of fullness, wholeness or connectedness whenever the needs which underlie it are met.
(410) 267-4324 View (410) 267-4324
Photo of Emily Coco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Emily Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
(667) 226-0443 View (667) 226-0443
Photo of Tim Holt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Tim Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409
I have worked in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2014; extensive experience working with athletes, adolescents, college students, and young professionals. Most recently I've worked with parents, families, and couples to help manage the emotional struggles of the family system. I'm wrapping up my credentialing as a Certified Arise Interventionist so I can share my passion with families coping with a loved one's addiction. Ideal client's might be teenagers who are feeling stuck, college aged males who are unsatisfied in life or family members needing support with boundaries and detachment.
I have worked in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2014; extensive experience working with athletes, adolescents, college students, and young professionals. Most recently I've worked with parents, families, and couples to help manage the emotional struggles of the family system. I'm wrapping up my credentialing as a Certified Arise Interventionist so I can share my passion with families coping with a loved one's addiction. Ideal client's might be teenagers who are feeling stuck, college aged males who are unsatisfied in life or family members needing support with boundaries and detachment.
(443) 494-6114 View (443) 494-6114
Photo of Katie Heinold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Katie Heinold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Do you have a child that struggles with anxiety, sadness, or behavioral concerns? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to best support your child during this difficult time? As a therapist that is passionate about working with children and their families to promote emotional growth and positive behavioral change, I would be honored to assist your family in navigating this challenging chapter of life. One of my goals is to create a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgemental space during our sessions so that we can work together to create goals that feel comfortable for you and your family.
Do you have a child that struggles with anxiety, sadness, or behavioral concerns? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to best support your child during this difficult time? As a therapist that is passionate about working with children and their families to promote emotional growth and positive behavioral change, I would be honored to assist your family in navigating this challenging chapter of life. One of my goals is to create a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgemental space during our sessions so that we can work together to create goals that feel comfortable for you and your family.
(667) 220-6359 View (667) 220-6359
Photo of Maryann Boyle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Maryann Boyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Areas of focus include anxiety/depression, family issues, chronic illness and trauma.
It's not easy to take these first steps in your healing journey (or to start again if this isn't the first time you've done this). I look forward to helping you discover your own strength and inner resources as we work together toward your healing and overall wellness.
Areas of focus include anxiety/depression, family issues, chronic illness and trauma.
It's not easy to take these first steps in your healing journey (or to start again if this isn't the first time you've done this). I look forward to helping you discover your own strength and inner resources as we work together toward your healing and overall wellness.
(410) 873-7838 View (410) 873-7838
Photo of Marie Deyro, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Marie Deyro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21403  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years of experience within the mental health industry. I am the founder of Empower & Elevate Psychotherapy, a virtual outpatient private practice providing quality mental health care to individuals and families across 40 states. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of pediatric, child, adolescent, and adult populations with symptoms related to autism, ADHD, disruptive behavior, intellectual and developmental disabilities, anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, stress, life transitions, challenges with identity development, hardship in attachments, and family discord.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years of experience within the mental health industry. I am the founder of Empower & Elevate Psychotherapy, a virtual outpatient private practice providing quality mental health care to individuals and families across 40 states. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of pediatric, child, adolescent, and adult populations with symptoms related to autism, ADHD, disruptive behavior, intellectual and developmental disabilities, anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, stress, life transitions, challenges with identity development, hardship in attachments, and family discord.
(667) 239-8189 View (667) 239-8189
Photo of Dr. Teresa Hunt Monan Annapolis Relationship Therapy, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Dr. Teresa Hunt Monan Annapolis Relationship Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I can help you face many challenges, in work, love or family, or within yourself.
Welcome! Practicing for over 35 years. Trained at Columbia, Harvard, and University of Michigan. Postdoctoral Training in Psychoanalysis, Sensorimotor PT, IMAGO, PACT, Polyvagal, EFT, Hypnotherapy. Couples Therapy work creates "secure functioning" via IMAGO therapy (conscious dialogue, intentionality, empathy), and PACT ideas (true mutuality, kindness, fairness, sensitivity, shared agreements, leading with repair, learning one's partner's attachment style and what works.) I help individuals using these ideas as well. I treat anxiety, grief, esteem issues, faulty emotional beliefs, and help individuals find lasting love.
I can help you face many challenges, in work, love or family, or within yourself.
Welcome! Practicing for over 35 years. Trained at Columbia, Harvard, and University of Michigan. Postdoctoral Training in Psychoanalysis, Sensorimotor PT, IMAGO, PACT, Polyvagal, EFT, Hypnotherapy. Couples Therapy work creates "secure functioning" via IMAGO therapy (conscious dialogue, intentionality, empathy), and PACT ideas (true mutuality, kindness, fairness, sensitivity, shared agreements, leading with repair, learning one's partner's attachment style and what works.) I help individuals using these ideas as well. I treat anxiety, grief, esteem issues, faulty emotional beliefs, and help individuals find lasting love.
(667) 270-8585 x1 View (667) 270-8585 x1
Photo of Answered Prayers Therapeutic Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Answered Prayers Therapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PMHNP, LMFT, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Our staff of highly trained clinicians focus on working with you as a team to help you resolve any issues you and/or your family may be dealing with.
Feeling stressed? Got the blues? Having a lover's quarrel? Are the children misbehaving? We can help! We utilize Brief, Solution- Focused therapy, as well as other modalities, to help you overcome whatever obstacle you are currently facing.
Our staff of highly trained clinicians focus on working with you as a team to help you resolve any issues you and/or your family may be dealing with.
Feeling stressed? Got the blues? Having a lover's quarrel? Are the children misbehaving? We can help! We utilize Brief, Solution- Focused therapy, as well as other modalities, to help you overcome whatever obstacle you are currently facing.
(410) 604-8394 View (410) 604-8394
Photo of Keith T Foster, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Keith T Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
I serve on the faculty of a Family Medicine Residency Program where I teach physicians the importance of establishing an empathic relationship with their patients; the value of effective communication; and the need to include the patient in the decision-making involved in their medical care.
My years of experience and training have taught me the importance of good listening. By learning who you are and what you want in your life, I am best able to help you restore or enhance the quality of life you seek. I limit my practice to adults in individual therapy or relationship counseling. While there is no magic in therapy, there is an opportunity to feel better now, avoid future emotional pitfalls and be better able to deal with those that cannot be avoided. As a compassionate and experienced professional, I look forward to assisting you.
I serve on the faculty of a Family Medicine Residency Program where I teach physicians the importance of establishing an empathic relationship with their patients; the value of effective communication; and the need to include the patient in the decision-making involved in their medical care.
My years of experience and training have taught me the importance of good listening. By learning who you are and what you want in your life, I am best able to help you restore or enhance the quality of life you seek. I limit my practice to adults in individual therapy or relationship counseling. While there is no magic in therapy, there is an opportunity to feel better now, avoid future emotional pitfalls and be better able to deal with those that cannot be avoided. As a compassionate and experienced professional, I look forward to assisting you.
(410) 415-1431 View (410) 415-1431
Photo of Eddy Wooten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Eddy Wooten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Feeling stressed? Got the blues? Having a lover's quarrel? Are the children misbehaving? We can help! We specialize in Brief, Solution- Focused therapy to help you overcome whatever obstacle you are currently facing. With over fifteen years of experience, We focus on working with you as a team to help you resolve any issues you and/or your family may be dealing with.
Feeling stressed? Got the blues? Having a lover's quarrel? Are the children misbehaving? We can help! We specialize in Brief, Solution- Focused therapy to help you overcome whatever obstacle you are currently facing. With over fifteen years of experience, We focus on working with you as a team to help you resolve any issues you and/or your family may be dealing with.
(443) 398-3189 View (443) 398-3189
Photo of Rebecca Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I wanted to get into the mental health field from a young age, as I was always surrounded by friends and family who struggled with mental health.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I wanted to get into the mental health field from a young age, as I was always surrounded by friends and family who struggled with mental health.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(667) 326-9031 View (667) 326-9031
Photo of Nancy Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Nancy Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
My practice can help with: Adolescent/Child Services, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Grief, Child Abuse, Stress, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, LGBTQ Issues, Gender Identity, Depression, PTSD, Learning Differences, Life Management Counseling, Family Therapy, Divorce, Mediation, Workplace Conflict/EAP, Mood Disorders & Parenting Issues.
During my 30 years in the social work profession I have had an array of experiences that have focused on crisis work with families and individuals experiencing: trauma, loss, depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, housing & employment issues, and family challenges. In my more recent practice years, I have enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community as a straight ally, and advocating for equal rights and fair treatment for all. I am also certified as a divorce mediator, and I provide clinical supervision to graduate level social work professionals seeking their LCSW-C licensure. Licensed in: MD/VA/FL.
My practice can help with: Adolescent/Child Services, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Grief, Child Abuse, Stress, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, LGBTQ Issues, Gender Identity, Depression, PTSD, Learning Differences, Life Management Counseling, Family Therapy, Divorce, Mediation, Workplace Conflict/EAP, Mood Disorders & Parenting Issues.
During my 30 years in the social work profession I have had an array of experiences that have focused on crisis work with families and individuals experiencing: trauma, loss, depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, housing & employment issues, and family challenges. In my more recent practice years, I have enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community as a straight ally, and advocating for equal rights and fair treatment for all. I am also certified as a divorce mediator, and I provide clinical supervision to graduate level social work professionals seeking their LCSW-C licensure. Licensed in: MD/VA/FL.
(410) 401-4909 View (410) 401-4909
Photo of Kate Kelley, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Kate Kelley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, ImagoEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
The investment you make in learning couples dialogue will also carry over into family and work relationships.
I bring a wide range of life experiences as well as a significant depth of education in Imago Relationship theory to the couples I counsel. I promote and respect each partner's individual worldview. My hope is that my couples celebrate the differences that each partner brings to their union. I facilitate a dialogue process that can be incorporated into the couple's relationship toolbox. In trusting the process of dialogue, I find that the couple shifts from distance to connection when they learn the "real story" as to why their partner's behavior or reactive energy occurs.
The investment you make in learning couples dialogue will also carry over into family and work relationships.
I bring a wide range of life experiences as well as a significant depth of education in Imago Relationship theory to the couples I counsel. I promote and respect each partner's individual worldview. My hope is that my couples celebrate the differences that each partner brings to their union. I facilitate a dialogue process that can be incorporated into the couple's relationship toolbox. In trusting the process of dialogue, I find that the couple shifts from distance to connection when they learn the "real story" as to why their partner's behavior or reactive energy occurs.
(410) 995-9391 View (410) 995-9391
Photo of Megan Yount, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Megan Yount
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am EMDR trained and have extensive trainings in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, Trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Perinatal mental health.
Life after experiencing trauma can be met with dysregulation and an inability to cope, function, or see a future beyond the traumatic experience. This often can leave one feeling isolated, lost, and misunderstood. I have extensive training in Trauma processing and work with adolescents, adults, and couples to identify skills to cope with and process their traumatic experiences. Whether you have experienced a single traumatic event or trauma throughout your life, we will work together to develop a plan that will relieve your trauma symptoms and provide you with a future that is free from your trauma.
I am EMDR trained and have extensive trainings in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, Trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Perinatal mental health.
Life after experiencing trauma can be met with dysregulation and an inability to cope, function, or see a future beyond the traumatic experience. This often can leave one feeling isolated, lost, and misunderstood. I have extensive training in Trauma processing and work with adolescents, adults, and couples to identify skills to cope with and process their traumatic experiences. Whether you have experienced a single traumatic event or trauma throughout your life, we will work together to develop a plan that will relieve your trauma symptoms and provide you with a future that is free from your trauma.
(443) 331-9649 View (443) 331-9649
Photo of Kayla Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Kayla Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one burdened by the weight of overwhelming emotions, struggling to find balance in life, or haunted by intrusive thoughts that cloud your days? The journey through reproductive trauma and maternal mental health struggles can be profoundly isolating and emotionally draining. Meanwhile, family trauma can leave lasting scars, impacting your relationships and emotional well-being in ways that feel insurmountable. You don't have to carry these burdens alone. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand, to provide support and understanding, and to help you rediscover the equilibrium, resilience, and hope that you deserve.
Are you or a loved one burdened by the weight of overwhelming emotions, struggling to find balance in life, or haunted by intrusive thoughts that cloud your days? The journey through reproductive trauma and maternal mental health struggles can be profoundly isolating and emotionally draining. Meanwhile, family trauma can leave lasting scars, impacting your relationships and emotional well-being in ways that feel insurmountable. You don't have to carry these burdens alone. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand, to provide support and understanding, and to help you rediscover the equilibrium, resilience, and hope that you deserve.
(301) 450-5837 View (301) 450-5837
Photo of Michelle Case, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Michelle Case
Counselor, LGPC, NCC, CAC-AD, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409
Areas of expertise include addiction, mental health, PTSD, trauma, mindfulness, family counseling, EMDR, motherhood/postpartum, & CBT.
Michelle Case, LGPC, NCC, CAC-AD, CCTS-I, is currently the Director of Treatment Services at The Refuge. She has over 10+ years of experience working in the addiction & mental health field. Michelle has experience working with adults of many ages with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, crisis intervention, case management, and enjoys working with clients to enhance coping skills. Michelle enjoys helping those out of their darkest times to healing.
Areas of expertise include addiction, mental health, PTSD, trauma, mindfulness, family counseling, EMDR, motherhood/postpartum, & CBT.
Michelle Case, LGPC, NCC, CAC-AD, CCTS-I, is currently the Director of Treatment Services at The Refuge. She has over 10+ years of experience working in the addiction & mental health field. Michelle has experience working with adults of many ages with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, crisis intervention, case management, and enjoys working with clients to enhance coping skills. Michelle enjoys helping those out of their darkest times to healing.
(443) 234-8625 View (443) 234-8625
Photo of Stacy A Stinchcomb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Stacy A Stinchcomb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand that, since you are searching for a therapist, you are looking for answers and renewed hope in a difficult season of your life. I am here to help and look forward to meeting you. I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of issues and trauma including sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and grief and loss for about 20 years. I also value marriage and the family and want to help couples work through their issues and see them grow in their ability to communicate and resolve the conflicts that are bound to happen in relationships.
Welcome! I understand that, since you are searching for a therapist, you are looking for answers and renewed hope in a difficult season of your life. I am here to help and look forward to meeting you. I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of issues and trauma including sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and grief and loss for about 20 years. I also value marriage and the family and want to help couples work through their issues and see them grow in their ability to communicate and resolve the conflicts that are bound to happen in relationships.
(410) 695-6930 View (410) 695-6930
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.