Photo of Victoria Morabito, Counselor in Smithtown, NY
Victoria Morabito
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
Some of the challenges that I can assist include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, as well as managing stressors associated with relationships, work and family conflict.
Seeking counseling is an important step toward making your wellbeing a priority and finding relief from the pain and unhappiness you might be feeling. When life becomes challenging and we are left feeling sad, overwhelmed or consumed with worry and doubt, it is vital that we allow ourselves to receive support from others. As a licensed mental health counselor, I provide therapeutic services in a safe and confidential setting assisting individuals who are challenged with depression, anxiety, among other emotional difficulties.
Some of the challenges that I can assist include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, as well as managing stressors associated with relationships, work and family conflict.
Seeking counseling is an important step toward making your wellbeing a priority and finding relief from the pain and unhappiness you might be feeling. When life becomes challenging and we are left feeling sad, overwhelmed or consumed with worry and doubt, it is vital that we allow ourselves to receive support from others. As a licensed mental health counselor, I provide therapeutic services in a safe and confidential setting assisting individuals who are challenged with depression, anxiety, among other emotional difficulties.
(631) 880-4872 View (631) 880-4872
Photo of Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Our mission at Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C. is to provide evidence-based, goal-oriented therapy to help you and/or your family achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic stress, relationship struggles or having a difficult time adjusting to life as a new parent — we can help. Psychotherapy can provide the support you need to help you find your way towards a better life. Even if you’re feeling lost now, we can help guide you in making lasting, positive changes in your life.
Our mission at Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C. is to provide evidence-based, goal-oriented therapy to help you and/or your family achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic stress, relationship struggles or having a difficult time adjusting to life as a new parent — we can help. Psychotherapy can provide the support you need to help you find your way towards a better life. Even if you’re feeling lost now, we can help guide you in making lasting, positive changes in your life.
(631) 337-8111 View (631) 337-8111
Photo of Family and Personal Counseling, Counselor in Smithtown, NY
Family and Personal Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ASAC, CCH
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
We are by your side! No matter the issue that you are facing... anxiety, depression, life issues, family issues, grief, trauma, couples therapy, stress relief, etc... we are ready to help. In this widely acclaimed practice, Ron Villano, M.S., LMHC, ASAC, CCH has assembled an elite team of over 35 providers. Our decades of success in talk therapy comes from creating a customized approach designed to encourage you to face your challenges with new life skills and professional support. You are here looking for that fresh start... and we will answer your call TODAY.
We are by your side! No matter the issue that you are facing... anxiety, depression, life issues, family issues, grief, trauma, couples therapy, stress relief, etc... we are ready to help. In this widely acclaimed practice, Ron Villano, M.S., LMHC, ASAC, CCH has assembled an elite team of over 35 providers. Our decades of success in talk therapy comes from creating a customized approach designed to encourage you to face your challenges with new life skills and professional support. You are here looking for that fresh start... and we will answer your call TODAY.
(631) 832-4316 View (631) 832-4316
Photo of Andrew Scherbarth, Psychologist in Smithtown, NY
Andrew Scherbarth
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
Hello! I use effective therapeutic methods for adults, young adults, & teens. Some issues clients bring in have lasted a long time: anxiety, depression, OCD, Panic Disorder, etc. (Specialty list is below.) Some issues are recent: things make us feel nervous, sad, hopeless, or confused. I aim to help people understand these issues & guide them to make a plan that fits for their life. They unlock their potential in areas of life that are important to them: friends, family, work, school, etc. I welcome all clients, including those who are culturally diverse, those who are on the autism spectrum, clients in the LGBTQ+ community, etc.
Hello! I use effective therapeutic methods for adults, young adults, & teens. Some issues clients bring in have lasted a long time: anxiety, depression, OCD, Panic Disorder, etc. (Specialty list is below.) Some issues are recent: things make us feel nervous, sad, hopeless, or confused. I aim to help people understand these issues & guide them to make a plan that fits for their life. They unlock their potential in areas of life that are important to them: friends, family, work, school, etc. I welcome all clients, including those who are culturally diverse, those who are on the autism spectrum, clients in the LGBTQ+ community, etc.
(631) 652-9275 View (631) 652-9275
Photo of Jeffrey Kaplan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Jeffrey Kaplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I am best able to assist those who struggle with competitive relationships, and feelings of being on the losing side in their interactions with those they love. I have seen couples, individuals, and entire families struggling with attempts to force one another to 'win' arguments, only to find that they never seem to go away fully. Many times, other issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders,sexual dysfunction or substance abuse becomes the main issue which families show to others the competitive nature which occurs within the family system, and are most concerned when they call for an initial session.
I am best able to assist those who struggle with competitive relationships, and feelings of being on the losing side in their interactions with those they love. I have seen couples, individuals, and entire families struggling with attempts to force one another to 'win' arguments, only to find that they never seem to go away fully. Many times, other issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders,sexual dysfunction or substance abuse becomes the main issue which families show to others the competitive nature which occurs within the family system, and are most concerned when they call for an initial session.
(631) 657-4043 View (631) 657-4043
Photo of Sophia Mastrandrea, Licensed Master Social Worker in Smithtown, NY
Sophia Mastrandrea
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I work with adults and adolescents who are coping with a variety of life circumstances and stressors (job/academic/family/relationships), depression, anxiety and life transitions.
Everyone has a story to tell and I'm so excited to learn about yours! Reaching out for support and being vulnerable with someone you don't yet know is an incredibly challenging and brave thing to do. I'd like to assure you that we will work together to create an empathic and accepting environment where you can feel at ease to reflect and do the work to make positive changes. I believe the connection between therapist and client is an important part of the healing process and I encourage a collaborative working relationship.
I work with adults and adolescents who are coping with a variety of life circumstances and stressors (job/academic/family/relationships), depression, anxiety and life transitions.
Everyone has a story to tell and I'm so excited to learn about yours! Reaching out for support and being vulnerable with someone you don't yet know is an incredibly challenging and brave thing to do. I'd like to assure you that we will work together to create an empathic and accepting environment where you can feel at ease to reflect and do the work to make positive changes. I believe the connection between therapist and client is an important part of the healing process and I encourage a collaborative working relationship.
(631) 769-2546 View (631) 769-2546
Photo of Stephanie Persico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Stephanie Persico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with adults and adolescents battling various mental health barriers; some including: anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol/substance abuse, personality disorders, family/relationship concerns, trauma and self-esteem issues. I offer a warm, safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to discuss their concerns free of judgment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with adults and adolescents battling various mental health barriers; some including: anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol/substance abuse, personality disorders, family/relationship concerns, trauma and self-esteem issues. I offer a warm, safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to discuss their concerns free of judgment.
(631) 652-9809 View (631) 652-9809
Photo of Tara O'Hare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Tara O'Hare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I've been qualified by the NYS Supreme & Family Court as an expert witness in the areas of child custody & visitation, abuse/neglect, child therapy, TPR cases, and parental fitness.
Hello! My name is Tara OHare. I have over 15 years' of clinical experience in the mental health field. I provide psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, as well as co-parenting therapy for separated and divorced parents. I treat children, adolescents, & adults. I'm experienced in treating a multitude of mental, emotional, and behavioral problems, which include anxiety and depressive disorders, trauma, addiction, & adjustment disorders. I have extensive experience in the areas of divorce, social anxiety, self-harm ("cutting"), problems w/ communication & assertiveness, as well as issues related to remarriage & stepfamilies.
I've been qualified by the NYS Supreme & Family Court as an expert witness in the areas of child custody & visitation, abuse/neglect, child therapy, TPR cases, and parental fitness.
Hello! My name is Tara OHare. I have over 15 years' of clinical experience in the mental health field. I provide psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, as well as co-parenting therapy for separated and divorced parents. I treat children, adolescents, & adults. I'm experienced in treating a multitude of mental, emotional, and behavioral problems, which include anxiety and depressive disorders, trauma, addiction, & adjustment disorders. I have extensive experience in the areas of divorce, social anxiety, self-harm ("cutting"), problems w/ communication & assertiveness, as well as issues related to remarriage & stepfamilies.
(631) 406-5207 View (631) 406-5207
Photo of Eric Neithardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Eric Neithardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, I work with clients from ages 12 - adult. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I use different elements of many therapeutic models, and I will work with you to design a treatment plan that addresses your individual needs. My approach is interactive, working at a pace that is comfortable for you. Seeking help can be a daunting task, and oftentimes it is difficult to reach beyond the problem and put your trust in someone to work through the process. It takes courage to attempt change. But, like everything, it starts with taking the first step.
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, I work with clients from ages 12 - adult. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I use different elements of many therapeutic models, and I will work with you to design a treatment plan that addresses your individual needs. My approach is interactive, working at a pace that is comfortable for you. Seeking help can be a daunting task, and oftentimes it is difficult to reach beyond the problem and put your trust in someone to work through the process. It takes courage to attempt change. But, like everything, it starts with taking the first step.
(934) 202-4121 View (934) 202-4121
Photo of Rachel Cunningham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Rachel Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Some of my specialties include treating; Relationship issues, Family issues, Eating disorders, Trauma, Depression & Anxiety in adolescents and adults.
TODAY is the day to start improving your emotional wellness. I believe therapy is a vehicle to become emotionally secure, balanced, fulfilled and happy. My promise to you is to create a safe space to unfold, unravel and rebuild. We will explore the sources of negativity in your life and practice coping skills to heal by finding your happiness! Please note, I am a proud member of a practice, Cunningham Counseling Services, and we offer multiple services listed below. Not all ‘specialties’ listed are unique to me but it is my mission to connect you to the best therapist for your healing & happiness!
Some of my specialties include treating; Relationship issues, Family issues, Eating disorders, Trauma, Depression & Anxiety in adolescents and adults.
TODAY is the day to start improving your emotional wellness. I believe therapy is a vehicle to become emotionally secure, balanced, fulfilled and happy. My promise to you is to create a safe space to unfold, unravel and rebuild. We will explore the sources of negativity in your life and practice coping skills to heal by finding your happiness! Please note, I am a proud member of a practice, Cunningham Counseling Services, and we offer multiple services listed below. Not all ‘specialties’ listed are unique to me but it is my mission to connect you to the best therapist for your healing & happiness!
(631) 309-2126 View (631) 309-2126
Photo of Maria Alejandra Mirabella, Marriage & Family Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Maria Alejandra Mirabella
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
I truly understand what it is like to grow up in a broken home, to have a blended family, and also what it takes to work each and every day to have a “happy and successful” marriage.
I was born in Colombia and moved to the United States at a young age, where I became bilingual in Spanish and English. As a first generation immigrant, I quickly learned and understood the challenges many of us can face. Also, at a young age my parents divorced and like many households, a lot changed for us. Our roles and responsibilities were different, my weekends were spent at “my second home”; and unfortunately I experienced 'parental alienation' by both parents.
I truly understand what it is like to grow up in a broken home, to have a blended family, and also what it takes to work each and every day to have a “happy and successful” marriage.
I was born in Colombia and moved to the United States at a young age, where I became bilingual in Spanish and English. As a first generation immigrant, I quickly learned and understood the challenges many of us can face. Also, at a young age my parents divorced and like many households, a lot changed for us. Our roles and responsibilities were different, my weekends were spent at “my second home”; and unfortunately I experienced 'parental alienation' by both parents.
(516) 774-5203 View (516) 774-5203
Photo of Alexandra Berger, Counselor in Smithtown, NY
Alexandra Berger
Counselor, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
“In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety” (Maslow). Moving through the stages of life doesn’t always go as we expect. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I want to support you and your family through the difficult stages of life. Whether you are a younger person, parent, spouse, or an adult seeking clarity in your life, I am here to support you.
“In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety” (Maslow). Moving through the stages of life doesn’t always go as we expect. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I want to support you and your family through the difficult stages of life. Whether you are a younger person, parent, spouse, or an adult seeking clarity in your life, I am here to support you.
(631) 257-3573 View (631) 257-3573
Photo of Suffolk Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Suffolk Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Our mission at Suffolk Family Therapy LCSW P.
Sometimes painful life events can damage your ability to have healthy relationships, and a fulfilling life. You don't have to be crippled by anxiety, anger, fear, shame, and intrusive negative thoughts. These symptoms can destroy relationships and isolate you, limiting your ability to feel safe and calm in any environment. Our goal is to help you move past these events, reclaim your life, and feel happy again.
Our mission at Suffolk Family Therapy LCSW P.
Sometimes painful life events can damage your ability to have healthy relationships, and a fulfilling life. You don't have to be crippled by anxiety, anger, fear, shame, and intrusive negative thoughts. These symptoms can destroy relationships and isolate you, limiting your ability to feel safe and calm in any environment. Our goal is to help you move past these events, reclaim your life, and feel happy again.
(631) 489-8119 View (631) 489-8119
Photo of Yelena Shik Telehealth Psychotherapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Yelena Shik Telehealth Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Issues with your child? Personal struggles? Stressed out or overwhelmed? Feeling depressed or anxious? You don't have to deal with difficulties alone. Yelena Shik for professional consultation. Who would benefit from this service? A child or an adult with symptoms of anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma or another emotional/behavioral problem. A family in distress to help resolving their issues; An adolescent or his/her parents who would like to see a therapist regarding their difficulties; emotional, social-relational, adjustments, etc.; A couple who is working on improvements in their relationship or deciding on breaking up.
Issues with your child? Personal struggles? Stressed out or overwhelmed? Feeling depressed or anxious? You don't have to deal with difficulties alone. Yelena Shik for professional consultation. Who would benefit from this service? A child or an adult with symptoms of anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma or another emotional/behavioral problem. A family in distress to help resolving their issues; An adolescent or his/her parents who would like to see a therapist regarding their difficulties; emotional, social-relational, adjustments, etc.; A couple who is working on improvements in their relationship or deciding on breaking up.
(631) 259-6032 View (631) 259-6032
Photo of Luann Quackenbush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Luann Quackenbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I have been working in the social work field since 1984. About 25 years ago, I started my full time private practice, and can still say that I love what I do. 30 years working with people provides me with a wealth of knowledge. A client only needs to bring themselves and have a willingness to commit to the therapeutic process. I have also enjoyed teaching as an adjunct instructor at The Adelphi University School of Social Work, where I teach graduate level classes in Individual Treatment, Group Treatment and Family/Marital Treatment.
I have been working in the social work field since 1984. About 25 years ago, I started my full time private practice, and can still say that I love what I do. 30 years working with people provides me with a wealth of knowledge. A client only needs to bring themselves and have a willingness to commit to the therapeutic process. I have also enjoyed teaching as an adjunct instructor at The Adelphi University School of Social Work, where I teach graduate level classes in Individual Treatment, Group Treatment and Family/Marital Treatment.
(631) 898-4135 View (631) 898-4135
Photo of Karen Ness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Karen Ness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to face what is challenging you in a supportive environment by enabling you to live your life the way you want. If you're looking for extra support through a difficult time or you're just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. My treatment approach is collaborative, working with clients to discover the most helpful ways to work through obstacles and achieve healthy lasting changes.
Therapy is an opportunity to face what is challenging you in a supportive environment by enabling you to live your life the way you want. If you're looking for extra support through a difficult time or you're just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. My treatment approach is collaborative, working with clients to discover the most helpful ways to work through obstacles and achieve healthy lasting changes.
(631) 240-4119 View (631) 240-4119
Photo of Randie London, Psychologist in Smithtown, NY
Randie London
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Dr. Taylor is a Licensed Psychologist. She has served students for over 15 years in the school setting as a secondary level School Psychologist. She utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach in empowering pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and families to manage life’s obstacle. Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: anxiety-related disorders, school refusal, depression, family and relationship issues, adjustment disorders and school consultation. Dr. Taylor is especially passionate about employing an affirmative approach with LGBTQ youth and adults and strongly believes in the home-school partnership.
Dr. Taylor is a Licensed Psychologist. She has served students for over 15 years in the school setting as a secondary level School Psychologist. She utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach in empowering pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and families to manage life’s obstacle. Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: anxiety-related disorders, school refusal, depression, family and relationship issues, adjustment disorders and school consultation. Dr. Taylor is especially passionate about employing an affirmative approach with LGBTQ youth and adults and strongly believes in the home-school partnership.
(631) 212-1871 View (631) 212-1871
Photo of Jill Spadafora, Counselor in Smithtown, NY
Jill Spadafora
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I have conducted individual, group, family, couples, & marital therapy.
Far too often we suffer in silence. Perhaps you feel misunderstood, or feel unable to commute what think & feel. No one knows your secret, that something is “wrong”. You try to devise a plan to feel better. Trying to prioritize your needs & make positive changes. You start reading self-help literature, or start exercising. But nothing seems to help & life starts to feel unmanageable .Getting through each day becomes a challenge. "No man is an island". Therapy can be the life line you need most during times of need. You no longer have to do this alone. You're ready to quiet the inner critic and ready to find your happiness again.
I have conducted individual, group, family, couples, & marital therapy.
Far too often we suffer in silence. Perhaps you feel misunderstood, or feel unable to commute what think & feel. No one knows your secret, that something is “wrong”. You try to devise a plan to feel better. Trying to prioritize your needs & make positive changes. You start reading self-help literature, or start exercising. But nothing seems to help & life starts to feel unmanageable .Getting through each day becomes a challenge. "No man is an island". Therapy can be the life line you need most during times of need. You no longer have to do this alone. You're ready to quiet the inner critic and ready to find your happiness again.
(516) 217-3680 View (516) 217-3680
Photo of Amanda Acevedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smithtown, NY
Amanda Acevedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I have over five years experience working with disenfranchised individuals and their families. I believe in the inherent worth of the person regardless of their past. I specialize in client issues related to pregnancy/perinatal/postpartum care, criminal and family legal issues (including dealing with loved ones in incarceration), and mixed family dynamics.
I have over five years experience working with disenfranchised individuals and their families. I believe in the inherent worth of the person regardless of their past. I specialize in client issues related to pregnancy/perinatal/postpartum care, criminal and family legal issues (including dealing with loved ones in incarceration), and mixed family dynamics.
(631) 502-4610 View (631) 502-4610
Photo of Feel Alive Therapy LCSW P.C., Licensed Master Social Worker in Smithtown, NY
Feel Alive Therapy LCSW P.C.
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in CBT, motivational interviewing, family therapy, trauma-informed care, and continue to research and learn new techniques that will best serve my client’s and their needs.
Hello! I'm Brianna, a Licensed Master Social Worker. I am an Adelphi University graduate receiving my BSW in 2018 and my MSW in 2019. I have experience working in schools, non-profits, and medical settings. I spent two years working as an in-home therapist servicing youth with severe emotional and behavioral disturbances and now currently work full-time in the field of substance use. I’ve worked with many different populations including ages ranging from adolescents to geriatrics, LGBTQ+, family caregivers, substance abuse, and victims of domestic violence & sexual assault, just to name a few.
I have training in CBT, motivational interviewing, family therapy, trauma-informed care, and continue to research and learn new techniques that will best serve my client’s and their needs.
Hello! I'm Brianna, a Licensed Master Social Worker. I am an Adelphi University graduate receiving my BSW in 2018 and my MSW in 2019. I have experience working in schools, non-profits, and medical settings. I spent two years working as an in-home therapist servicing youth with severe emotional and behavioral disturbances and now currently work full-time in the field of substance use. I’ve worked with many different populations including ages ranging from adolescents to geriatrics, LGBTQ+, family caregivers, substance abuse, and victims of domestic violence & sexual assault, just to name a few.
(631) 600-7824 View (631) 600-7824
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.