Photo of Matthew A Johnson, Psychologist in Lewis County, WA
Matthew A Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Chehalis, WA 98532
I've spoken in all 50 States several times, most of Canada, and at the World Family Therapy Conference in Europe.
I have worked in the Mental Health Field for 40 years. I've been a Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 27 of those 40 years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families. I work with clients of all ages who struggle with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, Alcohol/Drug Addictions, Family/Parenting, Marital, Sex Abuse, Sexual Addiction, Career Concerns, Self-Esteem Issues, Spirituality Issues, Law Enforcement Personnel Issues, Military Personnel Issues, Athletics, and much more.
I've spoken in all 50 States several times, most of Canada, and at the World Family Therapy Conference in Europe.
I have worked in the Mental Health Field for 40 years. I've been a Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 27 of those 40 years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families. I work with clients of all ages who struggle with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, Alcohol/Drug Addictions, Family/Parenting, Marital, Sex Abuse, Sexual Addiction, Career Concerns, Self-Esteem Issues, Spirituality Issues, Law Enforcement Personnel Issues, Military Personnel Issues, Athletics, and much more.
(360) 226-7339 View (360) 226-7339
Photo of Dr. Holli Schoonover, Pastoral Counselor in Lewis County, WA
Dr. Holli Schoonover
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chehalis, WA 98532
Accepting new clients. Life can be hard, challenging, and at times can feel truly hopeless. There IS hope! Learn to implement key changes and create shifts to overcome even the most challenging of obstacles. As a Therapist/Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor, I am trained in both psychology and theology, and provide psychological as well as spiritual guidance as requested by clients.
Accepting new clients. Life can be hard, challenging, and at times can feel truly hopeless. There IS hope! Learn to implement key changes and create shifts to overcome even the most challenging of obstacles. As a Therapist/Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor, I am trained in both psychology and theology, and provide psychological as well as spiritual guidance as requested by clients.
(360) 300-8540 View (360) 300-8540
Photo of Craig Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lewis County, WA
Craig Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHCA
Verified Verified
Centralia, WA 98531  (Online Only)
Suffering is an unavoidable part of being human. All of us experience it. Anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, trauma, isolation, and loss can leave a person struggling to believe that something different is possible. You're not alone with those experiences. It takes courage to turn and face the mess of contradictions that keep us feeling stuck. I have a tremendous amount of respect for anyone willing to make the choice and engage in therapy.
Suffering is an unavoidable part of being human. All of us experience it. Anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, trauma, isolation, and loss can leave a person struggling to believe that something different is possible. You're not alone with those experiences. It takes courage to turn and face the mess of contradictions that keep us feeling stuck. I have a tremendous amount of respect for anyone willing to make the choice and engage in therapy.
(360) 685-7714 View (360) 685-7714

Online Therapists

Photo of Christine Havens, Counselor in Lewis County, WA
Christine Havens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
For 28 years, I've worked with clients to support healing around trauma, marriage/partnering, sexuality, grief, depression/anxiety, addictions. Using Somatic Experiencing, family of origin, meditation/movement work, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to help them develop a deeper sense of self, to face life's inevitable challenges with clarity and resources. Clients can repair their marriages/partnerships. Emphasized is the capacity to stay emotionally present, to attune, differentiate, have healthy boundaries, practice dual awareness and have clarity about attachment issues.
For 28 years, I've worked with clients to support healing around trauma, marriage/partnering, sexuality, grief, depression/anxiety, addictions. Using Somatic Experiencing, family of origin, meditation/movement work, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to help them develop a deeper sense of self, to face life's inevitable challenges with clarity and resources. Clients can repair their marriages/partnerships. Emphasized is the capacity to stay emotionally present, to attune, differentiate, have healthy boundaries, practice dual awareness and have clarity about attachment issues.
(206) 759-7147 View (206) 759-7147
Summit Health Management, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
I am a partner in Summit Health Management, a group founded by an eclectic partnership of four established, experienced providers with the vision of offering a variety of therapeutic services to meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples, and families in our community. Our group’s mission is to provide the region with experienced, compassionate, professional, and proficient mental and behavioral health care. We offer a therapy and psychiatric care for all ages, presentations, relationships and disorders, including individual, couples, family and group therapy, as well as substance abuse recovery for all ages.
(253) 215-8451 View (253) 215-8451
Photo of Cait King, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Cait King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
As a Couple and Family Therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in deciphering what may be holding you back from the freedom to live a more whole, robust life. A concentration of mine is in working with those who have attentional difficulties or learning differences such as ADHD, whether in a couple, family, or individual setting.
As a Couple and Family Therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in deciphering what may be holding you back from the freedom to live a more whole, robust life. A concentration of mine is in working with those who have attentional difficulties or learning differences such as ADHD, whether in a couple, family, or individual setting.
(267) 953-8094 View (267) 953-8094
Photo of Jude Patton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Jude Patton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98203  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience in other aspects of mental health as well, including 40 years of experience as a psychiatric physician associate, working in the broader area of mental health care and family practice medicine.
Ideally, I would like to use my extensive training and 40+ years of counseling experience to support, assist and advocate for clients whose personal identity lies on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, while they explore, investigate, or plan the rest of their life journey in their true identity. Naturally, I do NOT exclude others from becoming clients, since I also have a wealth of experience serving clients from the vast straight and cisgender community.
I have many years of experience in other aspects of mental health as well, including 40 years of experience as a psychiatric physician associate, working in the broader area of mental health care and family practice medicine.
Ideally, I would like to use my extensive training and 40+ years of counseling experience to support, assist and advocate for clients whose personal identity lies on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, while they explore, investigate, or plan the rest of their life journey in their true identity. Naturally, I do NOT exclude others from becoming clients, since I also have a wealth of experience serving clients from the vast straight and cisgender community.
(530) 777-9136 View (530) 777-9136
Photo of Counseling Services for Wellbeing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Wesley Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Wesley Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LMSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
The main therapeutic approaches I draw from are Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Maybe you're tired of suffering from being bossed around by OCD or anxiety. Perhaps you’re in a painful life transition and feeling uncertain, afraid, or lost. I’m glad you’re here. If you feel hopeless, I believe things can get much better, one step at a time. Although it sure can feel this way, rather than viewing OCD or anxiety as a monster trying to torture us, I see it as a hypervigilant alert system whose aim is to keep us safe at all costs. Retraining that alert system can help us get unstuck, heal, and thrive. I never claim to have the answers for anyone’s life, but I love helping people find answers within themselves.
The main therapeutic approaches I draw from are Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Maybe you're tired of suffering from being bossed around by OCD or anxiety. Perhaps you’re in a painful life transition and feeling uncertain, afraid, or lost. I’m glad you’re here. If you feel hopeless, I believe things can get much better, one step at a time. Although it sure can feel this way, rather than viewing OCD or anxiety as a monster trying to torture us, I see it as a hypervigilant alert system whose aim is to keep us safe at all costs. Retraining that alert system can help us get unstuck, heal, and thrive. I never claim to have the answers for anyone’s life, but I love helping people find answers within themselves.
(425) 587-8275 View (425) 587-8275
Photo of Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
(253) 214-9742 View (253) 214-9742
Photo of Carrie Erickson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Carrie Erickson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Hi & Welcome! I'm a highly skilled Marriage & Family therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience with clients & supervision of interns. I have a B.S. in Communications & a M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy. If you are in need of immediate help/relief or looking for long-term therapy, I can definitely address your concerns as I am trained in both. My areas of expertise are working with adults, teens, relationships, & families looking to create authentic, lasting change. My style is collaborative, compassionate, directive, & fun. Hope is essential for Healing. Resilience is essential to Thrive. I can help you achieve both.
Hi & Welcome! I'm a highly skilled Marriage & Family therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience with clients & supervision of interns. I have a B.S. in Communications & a M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy. If you are in need of immediate help/relief or looking for long-term therapy, I can definitely address your concerns as I am trained in both. My areas of expertise are working with adults, teens, relationships, & families looking to create authentic, lasting change. My style is collaborative, compassionate, directive, & fun. Hope is essential for Healing. Resilience is essential to Thrive. I can help you achieve both.
(206) 317-5126 View (206) 317-5126
Photo of Robynn Frey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Robynn Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Silverdale, WA 98383
I have worked for many years with a variety of needs including Crisis Family Intervention and Family Preservation.
Life can be hard! Having someone who listens and cares during a difficult time can make all the difference. My commitment to you is to build a strong relationship while offering the tools needed to meet your individual or family goals. I offer a client-centered, solution-focused approach to help guide you and support your needs. With strategies and approaches appropriate for all ages, I offer a non judgmental and safe environment, to help you/or your family achieve your goals. It would be an honor to be a support on your way to a healthy and rewarding journey!
I have worked for many years with a variety of needs including Crisis Family Intervention and Family Preservation.
Life can be hard! Having someone who listens and cares during a difficult time can make all the difference. My commitment to you is to build a strong relationship while offering the tools needed to meet your individual or family goals. I offer a client-centered, solution-focused approach to help guide you and support your needs. With strategies and approaches appropriate for all ages, I offer a non judgmental and safe environment, to help you/or your family achieve your goals. It would be an honor to be a support on your way to a healthy and rewarding journey!
(360) 526-8377 View (360) 526-8377
Photo of Soleil Ann Brandenfels, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Lewis County, WA
Soleil Ann Brandenfels
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
Immediate couples & family openings! Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
Immediate couples & family openings! Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
(206) 800-7036 x1 View (206) 800-7036 x1
Photo of Tammette L Chitwood, Counselor in Lewis County, WA
Tammette L Chitwood
Counselor, MS, CC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
(360) 583-6961 View (360) 583-6961
Photo of Angela F Kelly Lmhc, Counselor in Lewis County, WA
Angela F Kelly Lmhc
Counselor, LMHC, GMHS, CBHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031  (Online Only)
You tell yourself that if you just do everything perfectly, you’ll feel okay. As long as the house is spotless. And your family is ideal (or at least looks that way on social media.) If you always say yes, constantly keep a smile on your face, and never complain about anything – then everything should be fine. But no matter how hard you try, you can’t shake this feeling of dread. And all of your efforts to appear perfect are taking a toll. To-do lists never end. No one seems to know the real you. You’re terrified that at any moment, there’ll be a crack in your mask and everyone will see you for who you truly are; this cant go on.
You tell yourself that if you just do everything perfectly, you’ll feel okay. As long as the house is spotless. And your family is ideal (or at least looks that way on social media.) If you always say yes, constantly keep a smile on your face, and never complain about anything – then everything should be fine. But no matter how hard you try, you can’t shake this feeling of dread. And all of your efforts to appear perfect are taking a toll. To-do lists never end. No one seems to know the real you. You’re terrified that at any moment, there’ll be a crack in your mask and everyone will see you for who you truly are; this cant go on.
(206) 590-4720 View (206) 590-4720
Photo of Dupre' Rouse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Dupre' Rouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
I provide individual sessions, family sessions, couples sessions, sex therapy, group therapy, Christian therapy, and sports therapy.
My approach to therapy is very client focused. I am a systemic therapist and will try and look at the whole picture of your life to help figure out how to help. Working with couples to save, restore, or provide maintenance is my passion. There’s nothing in the world quite like trauma and the way it impacts us as individuals on many different levels. I can help you deal with and navigate these painful memories and intrusive thoughts to live a healthier life. If you are a parent struggling with a child or family problems, I believe I can connect with and help teach both parent and child to help you be a more successful family unit.
I provide individual sessions, family sessions, couples sessions, sex therapy, group therapy, Christian therapy, and sports therapy.
My approach to therapy is very client focused. I am a systemic therapist and will try and look at the whole picture of your life to help figure out how to help. Working with couples to save, restore, or provide maintenance is my passion. There’s nothing in the world quite like trauma and the way it impacts us as individuals on many different levels. I can help you deal with and navigate these painful memories and intrusive thoughts to live a healthier life. If you are a parent struggling with a child or family problems, I believe I can connect with and help teach both parent and child to help you be a more successful family unit.
(833) 204-8107 View (833) 204-8107
Photo of Jeanan Hyat, Mental Health Counselor in Lewis County, WA
Jeanan Hyat
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Life comes at us fast and we’re not always ready for it but that’s okay! I believe that we all crave connection with our peers, friends, family, and partners. And when we aren’t working on those connections, we’re working to build our connection with ourself. To fully work through that and make progress, I use a direct approach in helping clients address concerns that may arise from their connections with others or with themself. I believe that the most progress can be made when it’s accompanied with empathy and unconditional positive regard - two pillars of therapeutic work to foster growth and a sense of safety.
Life comes at us fast and we’re not always ready for it but that’s okay! I believe that we all crave connection with our peers, friends, family, and partners. And when we aren’t working on those connections, we’re working to build our connection with ourself. To fully work through that and make progress, I use a direct approach in helping clients address concerns that may arise from their connections with others or with themself. I believe that the most progress can be made when it’s accompanied with empathy and unconditional positive regard - two pillars of therapeutic work to foster growth and a sense of safety.
View
Photo of Eastside Counseling Center in Lewis County, WA
Eastside Counseling Center
LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Please contact us for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
Please contact us for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
(425) 405-7857 View (425) 405-7857
Photo of Carli Wall, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lewis County, WA
Carli Wall
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Edgewood, WA 98371
My practice includes working with couples/relationships, parent-child, families, adolescents (13+), and individuals. I welcome clients of all backgrounds and identities. In a world brimming with endless distractions and disconnection, it’s completely natural to feel a bit overwhelmed and purposeless. At times like these, seeking therapy can be a wonderful opportunity to take a breather and carve out a nurturing space to reconnect with your own needs, your relationships, and your family.
My practice includes working with couples/relationships, parent-child, families, adolescents (13+), and individuals. I welcome clients of all backgrounds and identities. In a world brimming with endless distractions and disconnection, it’s completely natural to feel a bit overwhelmed and purposeless. At times like these, seeking therapy can be a wonderful opportunity to take a breather and carve out a nurturing space to reconnect with your own needs, your relationships, and your family.
(253) 352-3161 View (253) 352-3161
Photo of Justin Ibrahim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewis County, WA
Justin Ibrahim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients- My name is Justin and I'm a social worker and therapist. I help my clients understand who they are and how they fit into the world around them. First-generation Asian Americans Pacific Islanders, and Black Americans experience this in unique ways. I specialize in working with AAPI and BIPOC clients and their loved ones. We can find solutions to improve quality of life while honoring important cultural/ identity values and needs for today. This work can be so empowering for you engaging relationships, dating life, marriage, partnerships and family life!
Accepting New Clients- My name is Justin and I'm a social worker and therapist. I help my clients understand who they are and how they fit into the world around them. First-generation Asian Americans Pacific Islanders, and Black Americans experience this in unique ways. I specialize in working with AAPI and BIPOC clients and their loved ones. We can find solutions to improve quality of life while honoring important cultural/ identity values and needs for today. This work can be so empowering for you engaging relationships, dating life, marriage, partnerships and family life!
(206) 593-4358 View (206) 593-4358

See more therapy options for Lewis County


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.