Photo of Vincent Lamont, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Vincent Lamont
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
(267) 433-2706 View (267) 433-2706
Photo of John Driessnack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 18103, PA
John Driessnack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I enjoy aiding people in goal setting and identification, meaning-making, and navigating family conflicts.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and specialize in helping people to effectively manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns using cognitive behavioral techniques. I have worked with a range of populations, nearly all ages, and also have experience with couple's counseling and addiction treatment. I work with people to develop insight into the source of their problems, how their core beliefs about the world might be hindering their progress, and focus on their natural strengths to overcome those barriers with practical skills that generate sustainable change.
I enjoy aiding people in goal setting and identification, meaning-making, and navigating family conflicts.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and specialize in helping people to effectively manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns using cognitive behavioral techniques. I have worked with a range of populations, nearly all ages, and also have experience with couple's counseling and addiction treatment. I work with people to develop insight into the source of their problems, how their core beliefs about the world might be hindering their progress, and focus on their natural strengths to overcome those barriers with practical skills that generate sustainable change.
(484) 290-1730 View (484) 290-1730
Photo of Isobella Cerceo, Pre-Licensed Professional in 18103, PA
Isobella Cerceo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I practice therapy through a relational, trauma-informed lens that utilizes skills from variety of therapies such as internal family systems, dialectical behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.
Healing is a lifelong journey, and it is not one you must do alone. You are taking a courageous first step towards realignment with yourself. By untangling the past, we can begin to heal these wounds and reclaim the narrative of our lives. I companion clients navigating trauma, relational distress, gender and sexuality exploration, sexual concerns, and neurodivergence. In and out of the therapy space, I am sex-positive, sex worker friendly, poly-friendly, kink aware & affirming, and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned.
I practice therapy through a relational, trauma-informed lens that utilizes skills from variety of therapies such as internal family systems, dialectical behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.
Healing is a lifelong journey, and it is not one you must do alone. You are taking a courageous first step towards realignment with yourself. By untangling the past, we can begin to heal these wounds and reclaim the narrative of our lives. I companion clients navigating trauma, relational distress, gender and sexuality exploration, sexual concerns, and neurodivergence. In and out of the therapy space, I am sex-positive, sex worker friendly, poly-friendly, kink aware & affirming, and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned.
(484) 218-2404 View (484) 218-2404
Photo of Nancy Stone, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Nancy Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual and family therapy.
Your mental health is important, and gathering the courage to get help is not an easy task. The notion of verbalizing your inner thoughts and feelings might seem intimidating, and make you feel vulnerable. Taking this into consideration, I strive to create a safe and calming space where you can feel understood and not judged. Through the process of therapy, you can better understand the patterns in your life, overcome barriers, and experience new ways of coping. You will gain a better understanding of your behaviors and communication styles that hinder you from achieving your goals.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual and family therapy.
Your mental health is important, and gathering the courage to get help is not an easy task. The notion of verbalizing your inner thoughts and feelings might seem intimidating, and make you feel vulnerable. Taking this into consideration, I strive to create a safe and calming space where you can feel understood and not judged. Through the process of therapy, you can better understand the patterns in your life, overcome barriers, and experience new ways of coping. You will gain a better understanding of your behaviors and communication styles that hinder you from achieving your goals.
(484) 290-1772 View (484) 290-1772
Photo of Allison Otto, Psychologist in 18103, PA
Allison Otto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults, in individual, family, couples, and group psychotherapy.
Our work together will focus on self growth and making significant, long lasting changes, in yourself and in the way that you relate to others. I believe that people are complex individuals with dynamic lives and histories, and so my approach to psychotherapy is individualized to each of my clients. In addition to psychotherapy, I also provide diagnostic psychological testing and consultation for individuals who are seeking insight into their personalities, ways of thinking, symptoms, strengths, and areas for growth. I am also able to provide forensic evaluations, including child custody evaluations.
I have experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults, in individual, family, couples, and group psychotherapy.
Our work together will focus on self growth and making significant, long lasting changes, in yourself and in the way that you relate to others. I believe that people are complex individuals with dynamic lives and histories, and so my approach to psychotherapy is individualized to each of my clients. In addition to psychotherapy, I also provide diagnostic psychological testing and consultation for individuals who are seeking insight into their personalities, ways of thinking, symptoms, strengths, and areas for growth. I am also able to provide forensic evaluations, including child custody evaluations.
(610) 709-6556 View (610) 709-6556
Photo of Noelle Kantra, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Noelle Kantra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, and family conflict, as well as survivors of sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
As a therapist I believe that we all have the capacity for resiliency given the right support. Therapy can be a great opportunity reflect on your life and develop healthier ways of interacting with the world and with yourself. I offer a safe space for you to be heard and validated while processing the past and coping with the challenges of the present. I often use a person centered, strengths based approach, mindfulness and trauma focused techniques, though my approach varies according to need.
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, and family conflict, as well as survivors of sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
As a therapist I believe that we all have the capacity for resiliency given the right support. Therapy can be a great opportunity reflect on your life and develop healthier ways of interacting with the world and with yourself. I offer a safe space for you to be heard and validated while processing the past and coping with the challenges of the present. I often use a person centered, strengths based approach, mindfulness and trauma focused techniques, though my approach varies according to need.
(484) 897-7138 View (484) 897-7138
Photo of Djola McGowan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Djola McGowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Djola served the Greater Philadelphia Families, supporting children and parents with grief, complex trauma, family structure/system concerns, reunification, ADHD, ODD, ASD, and DMDD.
Hey, I am Djola McGowan, also lovingly called DJ. I am a neurodivergent Licensed Professional Counselor, based in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I identify as a woman and use the pronouns she/her. I am also a first-generation American, hailing from the land of wood and water Jamaica. I understand therapy to be a revolutionary act of self-care, and I view therapy as a collaborative process, she looks forward to working with her clients to find the best path to achieving their goals for wellness.
Djola served the Greater Philadelphia Families, supporting children and parents with grief, complex trauma, family structure/system concerns, reunification, ADHD, ODD, ASD, and DMDD.
Hey, I am Djola McGowan, also lovingly called DJ. I am a neurodivergent Licensed Professional Counselor, based in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I identify as a woman and use the pronouns she/her. I am also a first-generation American, hailing from the land of wood and water Jamaica. I understand therapy to be a revolutionary act of self-care, and I view therapy as a collaborative process, she looks forward to working with her clients to find the best path to achieving their goals for wellness.
(484) 603-6643 View (484) 603-6643
Photo of Timothy Mendoza, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Timothy Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping your child, adolescent and family cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, and behavior concerns. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced various traumatic events, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, community violence, domestic violence and divorce. I have also worked with victims of trafficking, violence, and undocumented immigrants. My recent practice has focused on improving parent-child relationships by using parent coaching sessions to decrease behavior problems and increase social skills and cooperation.
I specialize in helping your child, adolescent and family cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, and behavior concerns. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced various traumatic events, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, community violence, domestic violence and divorce. I have also worked with victims of trafficking, violence, and undocumented immigrants. My recent practice has focused on improving parent-child relationships by using parent coaching sessions to decrease behavior problems and increase social skills and cooperation.
(610) 890-6920 View (610) 890-6920
Photo of Holly Gilmore, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Holly Gilmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
My career has included a variety of therapeutic work from initially working with children, teens, and their families to more recently supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relational issues, and life transitions. Specialty areas include; working with children diagnosed with developmental disabilities, problematic behaviors, family systems experiencing divorce, are blended, or have encountered other disruptions, and supporting professionals in varying stages of career development. I am also working to expand my knowledge and expertise working with individuals with anxiety and couples.
My career has included a variety of therapeutic work from initially working with children, teens, and their families to more recently supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relational issues, and life transitions. Specialty areas include; working with children diagnosed with developmental disabilities, problematic behaviors, family systems experiencing divorce, are blended, or have encountered other disruptions, and supporting professionals in varying stages of career development. I am also working to expand my knowledge and expertise working with individuals with anxiety and couples.
(215) 240-7239 View (215) 240-7239
Photo of Maureen Brackey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 18103, PA
Maureen Brackey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
It is my firm belief that everyone can benefit from therapy if they are well matched to the person they are working with. Over the course of the past decade, I've honed specialty focus on trauma-informed care, LGBTQ+, human sexuality, women's empowerment, relationships and family sessions, and gaining a strong sense of self and direction in the face of challenging life circumstances. If these areas of treatment resonate with you, I'd love to schedule a time to connect about what you are looking for in a therapist.
It is my firm belief that everyone can benefit from therapy if they are well matched to the person they are working with. Over the course of the past decade, I've honed specialty focus on trauma-informed care, LGBTQ+, human sexuality, women's empowerment, relationships and family sessions, and gaining a strong sense of self and direction in the face of challenging life circumstances. If these areas of treatment resonate with you, I'd love to schedule a time to connect about what you are looking for in a therapist.
(223) 400-8174 View (223) 400-8174
Photo of Kesedria Carter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 18103, PA
Kesedria Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Kesedria and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides virtual therapeutic services in the state of Pennsylvania. I'm dedicated to build upon a culture of transparency, integrity, and compassion to assist people in developing better versions of themselves through mental health awareness and quality counseling services. My current clients seek support with anxiety, depression, stress management/coping skill development, LGBTQ+ affirming care, race related trauma, other trauma symptoms/experiences, family issues, peer relationship issues, strengthening assertive communication skills, and with boundary setting.
Hi! I’m Kesedria and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides virtual therapeutic services in the state of Pennsylvania. I'm dedicated to build upon a culture of transparency, integrity, and compassion to assist people in developing better versions of themselves through mental health awareness and quality counseling services. My current clients seek support with anxiety, depression, stress management/coping skill development, LGBTQ+ affirming care, race related trauma, other trauma symptoms/experiences, family issues, peer relationship issues, strengthening assertive communication skills, and with boundary setting.
(484) 669-8098 View (484) 669-8098
Photo of Andrew H. Johanson Jr, Marriage & Family Therapist in 18103, PA
Andrew H. Johanson Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I believe one of the most important parts of the counseling process is to develop a trusting caring relationship. With this relationship, much can be gained from the counseling sessions. I have worked well with individuals and families who have emotional pain. For many clients, helping them understand what creates such emotional pain, gaining insights puts them on a path for a more fulfilling life. In my practice I work with individuals who have sadness, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, sexual challenges and sexual abuse. My mission in therapy is to respect each client, and walk with them at their healing pace, I believe if we walk together on this healing journey life will be better.
I believe one of the most important parts of the counseling process is to develop a trusting caring relationship. With this relationship, much can be gained from the counseling sessions. I have worked well with individuals and families who have emotional pain. For many clients, helping them understand what creates such emotional pain, gaining insights puts them on a path for a more fulfilling life. In my practice I work with individuals who have sadness, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, sexual challenges and sexual abuse. My mission in therapy is to respect each client, and walk with them at their healing pace, I believe if we walk together on this healing journey life will be better.
(215) 995-5066 View (215) 995-5066
Photo of Inner Resources Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Inner Resources Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Clinicians are available for individual, couples/marriage and family counseling, working with children, adolescents and adults.
Inner Resource Counseling is a group practice serving Bethlehem & the Lehigh Valley area. Our focus is on acting as therapeutic supports in assisting people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights about themselves and making healthier choices in problematic times, allowing for positive change to occur in life. If you are feeling stuck, frustrated or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues, clinicians can work with you to develop skills and raise your level of functioning and satisfaction with the use of multiple techniques, based on your individual needs.
Clinicians are available for individual, couples/marriage and family counseling, working with children, adolescents and adults.
Inner Resource Counseling is a group practice serving Bethlehem & the Lehigh Valley area. Our focus is on acting as therapeutic supports in assisting people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights about themselves and making healthier choices in problematic times, allowing for positive change to occur in life. If you are feeling stuck, frustrated or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues, clinicians can work with you to develop skills and raise your level of functioning and satisfaction with the use of multiple techniques, based on your individual needs.
(570) 221-6852 View (570) 221-6852
Photo of Laura Sweitzer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Laura Sweitzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
We all go through difficult times while taking this journey through life. Therapy can be an effective way to help us learn new coping skills to manage our stressors. Whether you are currently experiencing an increase in symptoms due to present life circumstances, or are struggling with residue from the past, I can utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to help you reach your fullest potential. These services are provided in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I specialize in post-traumatic stress disorder, women's issues, mood disorders, stress and anxiety, marital and family difficulties, grief, eating disorders, addictions, sexuality issues, and group therapy.
We all go through difficult times while taking this journey through life. Therapy can be an effective way to help us learn new coping skills to manage our stressors. Whether you are currently experiencing an increase in symptoms due to present life circumstances, or are struggling with residue from the past, I can utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to help you reach your fullest potential. These services are provided in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I specialize in post-traumatic stress disorder, women's issues, mood disorders, stress and anxiety, marital and family difficulties, grief, eating disorders, addictions, sexuality issues, and group therapy.
(701) 213-4826 View (701) 213-4826
Photo of Catherine Nonnemacher, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Catherine Nonnemacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
I have experience with individual, group, and family therapy, and utilize different modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and motivational interviewing to help you achieve the changes that are important to you.
Are you or a child in your life struggling with depression, self-injurious behavior, anxiety, ADHD or major life changes? These challenges can be difficult to face on your own. Getting help can make the difference in learning the skills you need to accomplish the goals that are important to you and get what you want out of life. If you're feeling "stuck" and mental health problems are stopping you from living the life you want, I can help you find a pathway forward.
I have experience with individual, group, and family therapy, and utilize different modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and motivational interviewing to help you achieve the changes that are important to you.
Are you or a child in your life struggling with depression, self-injurious behavior, anxiety, ADHD or major life changes? These challenges can be difficult to face on your own. Getting help can make the difference in learning the skills you need to accomplish the goals that are important to you and get what you want out of life. If you're feeling "stuck" and mental health problems are stopping you from living the life you want, I can help you find a pathway forward.
(484) 778-4619 View (484) 778-4619
Photo of Walka Estevez, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Walka Estevez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Walka completed her Master's degree in family therapy at The Autonoma University of Santo Domingo, in The Dominican Republic.
Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.
Walka completed her Master's degree in family therapy at The Autonoma University of Santo Domingo, in The Dominican Republic.
Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.
(610) 756-9561 View (610) 756-9561
Photo of Dench Counseling Sport & Wellness Centre, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Dench Counseling Sport & Wellness Centre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PhD, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
If you are anxious, having difficulty with relationships, depression, self-esteem, or wrestling with an addiction & would like help, let's talk. I have been a psychotherapist for thirty years, and work with children, adolescents, and adults. How long ago did your issue begin? Many people don’t know the root cause of their problem. You may be suffering in silence not knowing where to turn. Counseling can provide tools for surviving the emotional fall out from COVID-19, building happy, healthy relationships, managing stress & anxiety, appreciating your strengths, & feeling good about yourself.
If you are anxious, having difficulty with relationships, depression, self-esteem, or wrestling with an addiction & would like help, let's talk. I have been a psychotherapist for thirty years, and work with children, adolescents, and adults. How long ago did your issue begin? Many people don’t know the root cause of their problem. You may be suffering in silence not knowing where to turn. Counseling can provide tools for surviving the emotional fall out from COVID-19, building happy, healthy relationships, managing stress & anxiety, appreciating your strengths, & feeling good about yourself.
(610) 365-4354 View (610) 365-4354
Photo of Alison Levine, Psychologist in 18103, PA
Alison Levine
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy involves exploring how your unique history has influenced who you are today and your current struggles. Together we will work on increasing your self-awareness so that you are no longer hindered by past experiences or weighed down by suppressed emotions. In discovering and revealing your true self, you will find more fulfillment in relationships and the opportunity to reach your full potential.
My approach to psychotherapy involves exploring how your unique history has influenced who you are today and your current struggles. Together we will work on increasing your self-awareness so that you are no longer hindered by past experiences or weighed down by suppressed emotions. In discovering and revealing your true self, you will find more fulfillment in relationships and the opportunity to reach your full potential.
(484) 207-5468 View (484) 207-5468
Photo of Robin L. Carosella, Psy.D, Psychologist in 18103, PA
Robin L. Carosella, Psy.D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in evidenced-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT). I believe the overarching goal of therapy is to identify potential behaviors and ways of thinking that affect your current way of being. I have an active approach to therapy with the end result being a change in behaviors and thoughts aimed at leaving you with a new perspective. Clients present to treatment for diverse reasons and each client is unique. Therefore, my treatment approach is collaborative, client centered and focused on the whole person.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in evidenced-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT). I believe the overarching goal of therapy is to identify potential behaviors and ways of thinking that affect your current way of being. I have an active approach to therapy with the end result being a change in behaviors and thoughts aimed at leaving you with a new perspective. Clients present to treatment for diverse reasons and each client is unique. Therefore, my treatment approach is collaborative, client centered and focused on the whole person.
(610) 432-5066 View (610) 432-5066
Photo of Tracy Lovelace, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18103, PA
Tracy Lovelace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Having the chance to talk and be heard in a non-judgmental environment can be the key to breaking out of old patterns, gaining insight, and arriving at valuable new perspectives. I am a certified trauma professional, and my areas of focus include but are not limited to adjustment and relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Having the chance to talk and be heard in a non-judgmental environment can be the key to breaking out of old patterns, gaining insight, and arriving at valuable new perspectives. I am a certified trauma professional, and my areas of focus include but are not limited to adjustment and relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(484) 500-8937 View (484) 500-8937
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.