Therapists in North Carolina

Photo of Sarah Beth Maier, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Sarah Beth Maier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
We are all faced with a myriad of obstacles, adjustments and stressors throughout our lives. Starting a family and navigating the role of new parent can be one of the biggest. Whether working through the postpartum adjustment, navigating the ever changing role as parent or walking through the many transitions and difficulties of being a child, I work with adults and children to find ways best suited to master these obstacles and surmount life's challenges.
We are all faced with a myriad of obstacles, adjustments and stressors throughout our lives. Starting a family and navigating the role of new parent can be one of the biggest. Whether working through the postpartum adjustment, navigating the ever changing role as parent or walking through the many transitions and difficulties of being a child, I work with adults and children to find ways best suited to master these obstacles and surmount life's challenges.
(704) 727-4349 View (704) 727-4349
Photo of Allison Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Allison Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I can help you and your family achieve your goals, both individually and together.
Adolescence and young adulthood are challenging times, full of growth and transition for individuals and families. I love supporting adolescents and emerging adults as they explore their identities and light their paths into adulthood. I am skilled at working with families through these transitional times, and also enjoy supporting couples in achieving healthy communication and partnership. My clinical experience runs the gamut from in-home work with court mandated youth, residential work with adolescent girls, and community-based outpatient therapy with high school students and kids in foster care.
I can help you and your family achieve your goals, both individually and together.
Adolescence and young adulthood are challenging times, full of growth and transition for individuals and families. I love supporting adolescents and emerging adults as they explore their identities and light their paths into adulthood. I am skilled at working with families through these transitional times, and also enjoy supporting couples in achieving healthy communication and partnership. My clinical experience runs the gamut from in-home work with court mandated youth, residential work with adolescent girls, and community-based outpatient therapy with high school students and kids in foster care.
(828) 481-8514 View (828) 481-8514
Photo of Michael J. Gialanella, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Michael J. Gialanella
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I welcome working with individuals, couples, and family members of all ages.
If you are interested in addressing individual issues such as depression, anxiety or a history of trauma/abuse; issues with your child including recognizing he/she "just isn't his/her self", not respecting your rules or boundaries, troubles in school; not feeling as connected with your partner, struggling to communicate with him/her, having more arguments and less intimacy with your partner; conflict or distance with family members or any combination of these issues, we can work together to help you and your family reconnect with and utilize the strengths and skills you already possess.
I welcome working with individuals, couples, and family members of all ages.
If you are interested in addressing individual issues such as depression, anxiety or a history of trauma/abuse; issues with your child including recognizing he/she "just isn't his/her self", not respecting your rules or boundaries, troubles in school; not feeling as connected with your partner, struggling to communicate with him/her, having more arguments and less intimacy with your partner; conflict or distance with family members or any combination of these issues, we can work together to help you and your family reconnect with and utilize the strengths and skills you already possess.
(919) 885-1201 View (919) 885-1201
Photo of Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
At our child and family counseling practice, we're dedicated to helping your family thrive.
We provide comprehensive counseling services for individuals of all ages, from children and teens to adults, as well as specialized marriage and family therapy. Our diverse clients, both individuals and families, seek compassionate, holistic counseling for issues like academics, emotions, stress, and relationships. They desire an empathetic, supportive environment to foster positive change, better relationships, and emotional well-being. Valuing our expert providers and evidence-based therapies, they seek self-discovery and a fulfilling life in a warm, understanding space, making us their choice for top-notch care.
At our child and family counseling practice, we're dedicated to helping your family thrive.
We provide comprehensive counseling services for individuals of all ages, from children and teens to adults, as well as specialized marriage and family therapy. Our diverse clients, both individuals and families, seek compassionate, holistic counseling for issues like academics, emotions, stress, and relationships. They desire an empathetic, supportive environment to foster positive change, better relationships, and emotional well-being. Valuing our expert providers and evidence-based therapies, they seek self-discovery and a fulfilling life in a warm, understanding space, making us their choice for top-notch care.
(919) 351-8043 View (919) 351-8043
Photo of Nicole Heller, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Nicole Heller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
I have training in DBT & CBT and have worked in multiple settings from inpatient hospital to in-home family therapy to school based therapy.
Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength. Making your mental health a priority is one of the strongest things you can do for yourself. My number one goal as a therapist is to help you learn healthy ways to navigate difficult emotions and situations. Everyone needs and deserves a safe space to vent, brainstorm and ask for help without judgment. My job is to offer a different perspective to your current struggles and challenge you to build more effective ways of dealing with tough emotions & life changes.
I have training in DBT & CBT and have worked in multiple settings from inpatient hospital to in-home family therapy to school based therapy.
Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength. Making your mental health a priority is one of the strongest things you can do for yourself. My number one goal as a therapist is to help you learn healthy ways to navigate difficult emotions and situations. Everyone needs and deserves a safe space to vent, brainstorm and ask for help without judgment. My job is to offer a different perspective to your current struggles and challenge you to build more effective ways of dealing with tough emotions & life changes.
(336) 803-7983 View (336) 803-7983
Photo of Colleen Cash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Colleen Cash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello! I am a counselor licensed in North and South Carolina with over 22 years of experience. I’ve worked with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, family and parenting issues, ADHD, behavioral issues, and more. I determine effective therapy strategies for each unique client, and employ a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Schema Focused, Narrative, and Brief Solution Focused techniques. My clients tell me they appreciate that I am direct, honest, and hold them accountable, while also being compassionate. I am very practical and teach techniques that can be applied to most all situations in life.
Hello! I am a counselor licensed in North and South Carolina with over 22 years of experience. I’ve worked with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, family and parenting issues, ADHD, behavioral issues, and more. I determine effective therapy strategies for each unique client, and employ a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Schema Focused, Narrative, and Brief Solution Focused techniques. My clients tell me they appreciate that I am direct, honest, and hold them accountable, while also being compassionate. I am very practical and teach techniques that can be applied to most all situations in life.
(704) 327-6147 View (704) 327-6147
Photo of Ricky A Speller, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Ricky A Speller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I am dedicated to knowing the client and building rapport based off culture, specific needs and the client's ways of expressing themselves and how they view assistance from therapy. At Virgie's Prayer Counseling Service PLLC, I strive to change individuals' opinion about therapy and provide personalized therapy sessions to address specific needs. I have experience working with children, teens and adults in various settings such as schools, office, probation and level III group homes. I have assisted clients to process trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, family issues, stress, and helped couples navigate through challenges.
I am dedicated to knowing the client and building rapport based off culture, specific needs and the client's ways of expressing themselves and how they view assistance from therapy. At Virgie's Prayer Counseling Service PLLC, I strive to change individuals' opinion about therapy and provide personalized therapy sessions to address specific needs. I have experience working with children, teens and adults in various settings such as schools, office, probation and level III group homes. I have assisted clients to process trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, family issues, stress, and helped couples navigate through challenges.
(336) 443-8865 View (336) 443-8865
Photo of Heather Leigh Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Heather Leigh Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Anyone can benefit from taking a step away from the chaos and spending some time listening to the help their bodies are asking for. Through soothing and tactile sessions such as painting and sand, calming music and a lot of plants, let's work on what is causing the anger, not just find coping techniques. Why we are self-harming and what are other ways to manage? What is the root of the family fights? Parents, let's find something different to do because yelling and crying does not feel good and it is not working. Come as you are, and you will be welcomed. I embrace all with a warm heart, an open ear and with hot chocolate :)
Anyone can benefit from taking a step away from the chaos and spending some time listening to the help their bodies are asking for. Through soothing and tactile sessions such as painting and sand, calming music and a lot of plants, let's work on what is causing the anger, not just find coping techniques. Why we are self-harming and what are other ways to manage? What is the root of the family fights? Parents, let's find something different to do because yelling and crying does not feel good and it is not working. Come as you are, and you will be welcomed. I embrace all with a warm heart, an open ear and with hot chocolate :)
(984) 833-0137 View (984) 833-0137
Photo of Katina C Reuting, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Katina C Reuting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety or even Grief? Still adjusting to life after the pandemic? Trying to pick up the pieces after losing a loved one and just not sure where to even start? Feeling like everyone around you has it all figured out and yet you are feeling stuck? Life is already hard, having friends and family not understanding is even harder! It is so important to find a therapist that is willing to come alongside you and help you figure out this thing called life, don't do it alone, Let's figure it out together and help you become your best "self" together!
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety or even Grief? Still adjusting to life after the pandemic? Trying to pick up the pieces after losing a loved one and just not sure where to even start? Feeling like everyone around you has it all figured out and yet you are feeling stuck? Life is already hard, having friends and family not understanding is even harder! It is so important to find a therapist that is willing to come alongside you and help you figure out this thing called life, don't do it alone, Let's figure it out together and help you become your best "self" together!
(919) 646-9453 View (919) 646-9453
Photo of Jody R Gardner, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Jody R Gardner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing for the past thirteen years. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing for the past thirteen years. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
(828) 358-1737 View (828) 358-1737
Photo of Vanessa S Crisp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Vanessa S Crisp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I integrate Internal Family Systems Therapy and cognitive behavioral frameworks with Christian spirituality to help people experience lasting change.
I am a Certified IFS Level 3 Therapist. Counseling is a courageous step toward healing and emotional growth, and I am honored to walk alongside those willing to start this therapeutic process. I am committed to providing professional and relationally based counseling that allows clients to grow, heal, and live from a place of restoration. My IFS trainings and trauma informed approaches are the backbone of my practice and I welcome you to step toward healing. May peace and kindness meet you on your journey to find the right therapist!
I integrate Internal Family Systems Therapy and cognitive behavioral frameworks with Christian spirituality to help people experience lasting change.
I am a Certified IFS Level 3 Therapist. Counseling is a courageous step toward healing and emotional growth, and I am honored to walk alongside those willing to start this therapeutic process. I am committed to providing professional and relationally based counseling that allows clients to grow, heal, and live from a place of restoration. My IFS trainings and trauma informed approaches are the backbone of my practice and I welcome you to step toward healing. May peace and kindness meet you on your journey to find the right therapist!
(828) 522-4090 View (828) 522-4090
Photo of A Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
A Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540  (Online Only)
She loves providing therapy and hopes to continue working with children and adults while strengthening family units and changing the world; one amazing person at a time.
At a Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, Dr. Chatara Williams specializes in working with individuals, children and families using CBT, DBT, therapy through play activities, and client-centered techniques addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and DMDD among others. Dr. Williams is a also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist working with Autistic children and the neurodivergent population as well as providing therapy and support to their parents and families.
She loves providing therapy and hopes to continue working with children and adults while strengthening family units and changing the world; one amazing person at a time.
At a Butterfly and Beyond Counseling, Dr. Chatara Williams specializes in working with individuals, children and families using CBT, DBT, therapy through play activities, and client-centered techniques addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and DMDD among others. Dr. Williams is a also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist working with Autistic children and the neurodivergent population as well as providing therapy and support to their parents and families.
(910) 629-2722 View (910) 629-2722
Photo of Rachel Marshall, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Rachel Marshall
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, Seeking Safety, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy (children ages 3-12), Anxiety, Depression, and Related Disorders, Systemic Family and Couples Therapy, Co-parenting and Blended Families, Sports and Executive Performance, ADHD/Executive Functioning Training.
Rachel has been working with adults, children, couples,and adolescents in a mental health capacity since 2003. She tries to meet people where they are at and maintain a nonjudgmental approach to helping each person she serves in a unique and supportive way. She has been licensed since 2010 and in private practice since 2012. She has had the opportunity to train with world renowned experts in her field. In addition to creating her own personalized approach to treating trauma Rachel is also trained in the following evidence based treatment modalities:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, Seeking Safety, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy (children ages 3-12), Anxiety, Depression, and Related Disorders, Systemic Family and Couples Therapy, Co-parenting and Blended Families, Sports and Executive Performance, ADHD/Executive Functioning Training.
Rachel has been working with adults, children, couples,and adolescents in a mental health capacity since 2003. She tries to meet people where they are at and maintain a nonjudgmental approach to helping each person she serves in a unique and supportive way. She has been licensed since 2010 and in private practice since 2012. She has had the opportunity to train with world renowned experts in her field. In addition to creating her own personalized approach to treating trauma Rachel is also trained in the following evidence based treatment modalities:
(919) 343-9726 View (919) 343-9726
Kim Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hampstead, NC 28443
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working at Anchor Psychological in Hampstead , N.C. I see adults, children, couples and families. I also work with Autism Spectrum adults and children. I am credentialed with most insurance companies which our office staff can help you with when you call to make an appointment.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working at Anchor Psychological in Hampstead , N.C. I see adults, children, couples and families. I also work with Autism Spectrum adults and children. I am credentialed with most insurance companies which our office staff can help you with when you call to make an appointment.
(910) 270-9995 View (910) 270-9995
Photo of Carolina Counseling Wellness Associates PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Carolina Counseling Wellness Associates PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
We have expertise working with anxiety relief, empowerment, trauma recovery, setting boundaries in relationships, family conflict, and developing healthy coping and communication skills.
We are now accepting new clients! Life can be stressful, come and take care of your mental health at our beautifully designed wellness center, or you may opt to use our virtual platform for your convenience. We have providers on staff to help with anxiety, depression, family therapy, parenting support, and trauma recovery.
We have expertise working with anxiety relief, empowerment, trauma recovery, setting boundaries in relationships, family conflict, and developing healthy coping and communication skills.
We are now accepting new clients! Life can be stressful, come and take care of your mental health at our beautifully designed wellness center, or you may opt to use our virtual platform for your convenience. We have providers on staff to help with anxiety, depression, family therapy, parenting support, and trauma recovery.
(919) 355-3533 View (919) 355-3533
Photo of Deepa Bhatt-Mackin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Deepa Bhatt-Mackin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
(919) 343-0027 View (919) 343-0027
Photo of Heather Ingram, Counselor in North Carolina
Heather Ingram
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
(919) 343-5649 View (919) 343-5649
Photo of Tova Woullard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Tova Woullard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Hopscotch therapists specialize in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions including; depression, stress, anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, bullying, family relationships and more.
Trying to find the right professional to support the emotional and/or behavioral health of your child or teen? Looking for a therapist who can give you and your child immediate online support? Our therapists accept most insurance and can be seen within the week. Schedule a free consultation with a therapist today to learn more about their approach. Need a hand? Our concierge service can help you find the right therapist for your child's needs.
Hopscotch therapists specialize in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions including; depression, stress, anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, bullying, family relationships and more.
Trying to find the right professional to support the emotional and/or behavioral health of your child or teen? Looking for a therapist who can give you and your child immediate online support? Our therapists accept most insurance and can be seen within the week. Schedule a free consultation with a therapist today to learn more about their approach. Need a hand? Our concierge service can help you find the right therapist for your child's needs.
(704) 389-5473 View (704) 389-5473
Photo of Tamara Reyes Tozzi, Counselor in North Carolina
Tamara Reyes Tozzi
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
My unique upbringing and understanding of both majority and minority cultures alI draw from different theoretical perspectives and use different integrative approaches such as CBT, Family Systems, and Solution Focused Therapy that takes the uniqueness of each client I see into consideration.
Desiring connection with others? Struggling to see yourself in a positive light? In my personal and professional life, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I've had many meaningful experiences of need and brokenness in my own life, in which I have been genuinely touched by others that have come alongside me as agents of healing and strength. This sparked my desire to come alongside others and to help them develop a healthy view of themselves and positive attitudes that promote striving toward one's goals and cultivating healthy relationships.
My unique upbringing and understanding of both majority and minority cultures alI draw from different theoretical perspectives and use different integrative approaches such as CBT, Family Systems, and Solution Focused Therapy that takes the uniqueness of each client I see into consideration.
Desiring connection with others? Struggling to see yourself in a positive light? In my personal and professional life, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I've had many meaningful experiences of need and brokenness in my own life, in which I have been genuinely touched by others that have come alongside me as agents of healing and strength. This sparked my desire to come alongside others and to help them develop a healthy view of themselves and positive attitudes that promote striving toward one's goals and cultivating healthy relationships.
(919) 551-6639 View (919) 551-6639
Photo of Latisha Riley, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Latisha Riley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
I am Latisha Riley, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (NC) and Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselors Supervisor (GA) . I have over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations in schools and the community. My clinical experience includes agency and private sector counseling, working with children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a range of therapeutic modalities to focus on the client and their needs. Treating the whole individual is my main focus and will work with the client and/or family to ensure that you reach your full potential.
I am Latisha Riley, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (NC) and Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselors Supervisor (GA) . I have over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations in schools and the community. My clinical experience includes agency and private sector counseling, working with children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a range of therapeutic modalities to focus on the client and their needs. Treating the whole individual is my main focus and will work with the client and/or family to ensure that you reach your full potential.
(919) 634-6174 View (919) 634-6174

See more therapy options for North Carolina

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.