Photo of Alan Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Alan Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
My background includes working with those who are experiencing relationship discord, family conflict, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with a chronic illness, grief and loss of a loved one, and/or difficulty with life transitions.
Everyone is faced with obstacles at some point in their lives. Sometimes these challenges bring up different emotions or you feel “stuck” and you find yourself having a difficult time processing them. They may even be affecting your work/school, relationship, family, or day-to-day activities. I provide a safe space to work through these challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort where we work together to navigate through difficult emotions, patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to problems, and any obstacles in the way of change for the better.
My background includes working with those who are experiencing relationship discord, family conflict, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with a chronic illness, grief and loss of a loved one, and/or difficulty with life transitions.
Everyone is faced with obstacles at some point in their lives. Sometimes these challenges bring up different emotions or you feel “stuck” and you find yourself having a difficult time processing them. They may even be affecting your work/school, relationship, family, or day-to-day activities. I provide a safe space to work through these challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort where we work together to navigate through difficult emotions, patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to problems, and any obstacles in the way of change for the better.
(430) 206-1355 View (430) 206-1355
Photo of Lind Butler, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77030, TX
Lind Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have spent the last thirty years helping individuals, couples and families with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship issues and family problems.
Therapy is a partnership that grows in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance. It allows one to rediscover the parts of selves which may have been disowned; to learn new skills to handle grief and distress; to build healthier, more nurturing relationships; and to gain access to one's own direct experience of the world. I nurture this collaboration with clients and recognize that within each of us there exists a deeper wisdom that, given adequate support, naturally moves toward healing and integration.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have spent the last thirty years helping individuals, couples and families with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship issues and family problems.
Therapy is a partnership that grows in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance. It allows one to rediscover the parts of selves which may have been disowned; to learn new skills to handle grief and distress; to build healthier, more nurturing relationships; and to gain access to one's own direct experience of the world. I nurture this collaboration with clients and recognize that within each of us there exists a deeper wisdom that, given adequate support, naturally moves toward healing and integration.
(713) 338-9247 View (713) 338-9247
Photo of Irena Milentijevic, Psychologist in 77030, TX
Irena Milentijevic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
I’m a psychologist who provides therapy to distressed women and couples. My individual counseling can help if you’re struggling with depression (including postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety), a recent loss such as a miscarriage, infertility, and other pregnancy-related concerns. I also help women who are unhappy with their relationships and are having difficulties balancing their profession, and their family life.
I’m a psychologist who provides therapy to distressed women and couples. My individual counseling can help if you’re struggling with depression (including postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety), a recent loss such as a miscarriage, infertility, and other pregnancy-related concerns. I also help women who are unhappy with their relationships and are having difficulties balancing their profession, and their family life.
(281) 942-4164 View (281) 942-4164
Photo of Dr. Kinnari Birla, Psychologist in 77030, TX
Dr. Kinnari Birla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
We are accepting clients for individual, couples, family, children and adolescents.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
We are accepting clients for individual, couples, family, children and adolescents.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
(281) 949-6371 View (281) 949-6371
Photo of Family PsychSolutions, PLLC, Psychologist in 77030, TX
Family PsychSolutions, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
I work with family physicians, case workers, school personnel, and other mental health professionals.
Are there constant demands placed on you at your job, school, or home? It can be difficult to manage all of them. Finding the time to focus on you to gain relief from life's challenges is tough. I believe that a trusting relationship between a therapist and client is essential towards one's progress. The therapeutic relationship can offer an empathic and collaborative way to explore change within yourself and your environment. I can help with problem solving, identifying strengths and weaknesses, learning better ways to communicate with others, learning coping skills, and also provide you with social support.
I work with family physicians, case workers, school personnel, and other mental health professionals.
Are there constant demands placed on you at your job, school, or home? It can be difficult to manage all of them. Finding the time to focus on you to gain relief from life's challenges is tough. I believe that a trusting relationship between a therapist and client is essential towards one's progress. The therapeutic relationship can offer an empathic and collaborative way to explore change within yourself and your environment. I can help with problem solving, identifying strengths and weaknesses, learning better ways to communicate with others, learning coping skills, and also provide you with social support.
(281) 845-2827 View (281) 845-2827
Photo of Rabia Ilahi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 77030, TX
Rabia Ilahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CART
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
'And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom' (Anais Nin). It is scary for many of us to risk initiating change in our lives, whether it's in ourselves, professionally, or in our intimate or family relationships. Having come to this site is a courageous first step, and I would like to help you in fulfilling your journey. I offer collaborative counseling/therapy for individuals, couples, and families who want to live more fulfilling lives.
'And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom' (Anais Nin). It is scary for many of us to risk initiating change in our lives, whether it's in ourselves, professionally, or in our intimate or family relationships. Having come to this site is a courageous first step, and I would like to help you in fulfilling your journey. I offer collaborative counseling/therapy for individuals, couples, and families who want to live more fulfilling lives.
(713) 489-4823 View (713) 489-4823
Photo of Dr. Nevine Sultan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77030, TX
Dr. Nevine Sultan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, NBCCH, RYT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, premarital counseling, and self-care immersions.
I believe in every human's capacity for healing and growth. I work from a holistic (body-mind-spirit) framework focused on helping you drop unnecessary baggage and enhancing your awareness of present-moment needs. This allows you to respond to your environment in creative, resilience-informed ways, and to embrace your highest potential. Together, we unravel your innate emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual wisdom, so you may live consciously and fully, without being bound by the past. I specialize in relationship concerns, mood and anxiety disturbances, grief, and trauma, including trauma related to unresolved childhood issues and damaging relationships.
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, premarital counseling, and self-care immersions.
I believe in every human's capacity for healing and growth. I work from a holistic (body-mind-spirit) framework focused on helping you drop unnecessary baggage and enhancing your awareness of present-moment needs. This allows you to respond to your environment in creative, resilience-informed ways, and to embrace your highest potential. Together, we unravel your innate emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual wisdom, so you may live consciously and fully, without being bound by the past. I specialize in relationship concerns, mood and anxiety disturbances, grief, and trauma, including trauma related to unresolved childhood issues and damaging relationships.
(281) 519-7398 View (281) 519-7398
Photo of Karen Waldman, Psychologist in 77030, TX
Karen Waldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
My specializations include couples and marital counseling, individual therapy, behavioral health (i.e., the mind-body connection), mindfulness training, stress management, values/goals clarification, LGBT issues, and hypnosis. Understandably, clients want results that are both fast and lasting, so I tend to use some type of brief, solution-focused model in my work. I also have considerable experience utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a method that is both quick and effective for relationship/family/parenting problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, chronic pain, guilt, insomnia, medical impairments, work stress, anger/resentment, smoking addiction, and many other difficult issues.
My specializations include couples and marital counseling, individual therapy, behavioral health (i.e., the mind-body connection), mindfulness training, stress management, values/goals clarification, LGBT issues, and hypnosis. Understandably, clients want results that are both fast and lasting, so I tend to use some type of brief, solution-focused model in my work. I also have considerable experience utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a method that is both quick and effective for relationship/family/parenting problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, chronic pain, guilt, insomnia, medical impairments, work stress, anger/resentment, smoking addiction, and many other difficult issues.
(713) 766-4375 View (713) 766-4375
Photo of Michelle Muckelroy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77030, TX
Michelle Muckelroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
Feelings of stress and imbalance are common place in our rapidly evolving world; restoring balance to our lives can be that positive change we seek to reclaim a sense of peace. Collaboratively, clients and I can work together to rehabilitate thoughts, actions, and feelings to bring about positive change in a welcoming and confidential environment. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor; I am also a certified educator and school counselor with 15 years experience. I have counseling experience in early childhood development, teen and women's issues, depression, anger and stress management, individual, marriage and family counseling.
Feelings of stress and imbalance are common place in our rapidly evolving world; restoring balance to our lives can be that positive change we seek to reclaim a sense of peace. Collaboratively, clients and I can work together to rehabilitate thoughts, actions, and feelings to bring about positive change in a welcoming and confidential environment. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor; I am also a certified educator and school counselor with 15 years experience. I have counseling experience in early childhood development, teen and women's issues, depression, anger and stress management, individual, marriage and family counseling.
(682) 587-1759 View (682) 587-1759
Photo of Christine A Jacobsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77030, TX
Christine A Jacobsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, TTS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and TTS (Tobacco Treatment Specialist) with experience in clinical counseling services/therapeutic interventions (individual, family and group) in outpatient and inpatient settings, diagnostic psychological evaluations (including career-related assessments), and tobacco treatment counseling. Clinical areas of interest include, but are not exclusive to: PTSD, anxiety, suicide prevention, bipolar disorder, depression, nicotine addiction, and career counseling. Experience working with children, adolescents, adults, including U.S. veterans (mostly combat vets).
LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and TTS (Tobacco Treatment Specialist) with experience in clinical counseling services/therapeutic interventions (individual, family and group) in outpatient and inpatient settings, diagnostic psychological evaluations (including career-related assessments), and tobacco treatment counseling. Clinical areas of interest include, but are not exclusive to: PTSD, anxiety, suicide prevention, bipolar disorder, depression, nicotine addiction, and career counseling. Experience working with children, adolescents, adults, including U.S. veterans (mostly combat vets).
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Photo of Susan Redding, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77030, TX
Susan Redding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, adventure traveling, and finding new binge-worthy TV shows.
I work with adults in individual, couple, and group settings. My passion is to serve others, and I strongly believe in the therapy process. With the foundation of a caring and trusting relationship, therapy can provide the insight, perspective, and self-awareness that leads to lasting change. As an attuned and empathic listener, I will not only assist you in navigating life's struggles, but collaborate with you through creative avenues to find the best path to your personal growth. I have come to trust in every individual's capacity to heal and find meaning, as we are inherently resilient beings!
In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, adventure traveling, and finding new binge-worthy TV shows.
I work with adults in individual, couple, and group settings. My passion is to serve others, and I strongly believe in the therapy process. With the foundation of a caring and trusting relationship, therapy can provide the insight, perspective, and self-awareness that leads to lasting change. As an attuned and empathic listener, I will not only assist you in navigating life's struggles, but collaborate with you through creative avenues to find the best path to your personal growth. I have come to trust in every individual's capacity to heal and find meaning, as we are inherently resilient beings!
(281) 843-5533 View (281) 843-5533
Photo of Jamie Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Jamie Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030
I utilize Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems techniques, incorporating warmth, humor, and non-judgment with insightful challenges that encourage growth and capitalize on self-acceptance.
Transitioning from what we’ve known our whole life to a new beginning (or even just a new depth) is difficult. It means giving up beliefs or ways of living that didn’t serve us. And when we give up what we’ve known our whole life, it’s hard to envision a new way forward. Sometimes before we can make big changes, we have to understand the past. I believe our bodies hold our stories of struggle and when we don’t fully process what's within us, we can get stuck in our transitions. We will work together to shine a light on life experiences and traumas, and dusty old habits and beliefs that may be holding you back.
I utilize Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems techniques, incorporating warmth, humor, and non-judgment with insightful challenges that encourage growth and capitalize on self-acceptance.
Transitioning from what we’ve known our whole life to a new beginning (or even just a new depth) is difficult. It means giving up beliefs or ways of living that didn’t serve us. And when we give up what we’ve known our whole life, it’s hard to envision a new way forward. Sometimes before we can make big changes, we have to understand the past. I believe our bodies hold our stories of struggle and when we don’t fully process what's within us, we can get stuck in our transitions. We will work together to shine a light on life experiences and traumas, and dusty old habits and beliefs that may be holding you back.
(832) 957-0681 View (832) 957-0681
Photo of Dorinda Gborie-Minor Bey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Dorinda Gborie-Minor Bey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Counseling can be beneficial to individuals, couples, and family who are looking to address life barriers, and strengthen their emotional connection, in different areas of life.
I have worked in the schools, prison, DFPS, and hospitals. I use modalities such as DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Task Centered/Problem-Solving Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have over 10 years of experience in helping adults, couples, individuals, groups, and children with issues such as substance abuse, anger management, behavioral problems, mental health disorders, grief, chronic illnesses, school issues, parenting issues, domestic violence, criminal stipulations, and marital problems. I also offer LCSW Clinical Supervision.
Counseling can be beneficial to individuals, couples, and family who are looking to address life barriers, and strengthen their emotional connection, in different areas of life.
I have worked in the schools, prison, DFPS, and hospitals. I use modalities such as DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Task Centered/Problem-Solving Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have over 10 years of experience in helping adults, couples, individuals, groups, and children with issues such as substance abuse, anger management, behavioral problems, mental health disorders, grief, chronic illnesses, school issues, parenting issues, domestic violence, criminal stipulations, and marital problems. I also offer LCSW Clinical Supervision.
(346) 361-1956 View (346) 361-1956
Photo of StarTherapy Telemental Health for Texas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
StarTherapy Telemental Health for Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW, BS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
If you're someone who is seeking support for personal growth, facing challenges like anxiety, relationship issues or self-doubt. You desire self-discovery and empowerment to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. You want to understand yourself better, improve relationships, and gain tools for resilience. Your goal is to thrive emotionally and mentally, finding inner peace and balance. You're in the right place.
If you're someone who is seeking support for personal growth, facing challenges like anxiety, relationship issues or self-doubt. You desire self-discovery and empowerment to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. You want to understand yourself better, improve relationships, and gain tools for resilience. Your goal is to thrive emotionally and mentally, finding inner peace and balance. You're in the right place.
(832) 479-3847 View (832) 479-3847
Photo of Catherine Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Catherine Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task! Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are returning for additional guidance, rest assured my approach is to see and value you as a unique individual and determine what approach will be best for you. I have been a clinical social worker for 22 years and I look forward to sharing in your life journey!
Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task! Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are returning for additional guidance, rest assured my approach is to see and value you as a unique individual and determine what approach will be best for you. I have been a clinical social worker for 22 years and I look forward to sharing in your life journey!
(832) 324-3529 View (832) 324-3529
Photo of Diana Marabillas Murrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Diana Marabillas Murrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
We go through so much in our lives. Love and loss molds us to who we are today. People who have come me for counseling seek a voice, want a safe place to share their life's experiences and have a need to be understood. I offer a kind, non judgmental atmosphere, some guidance through points & places where change has happened or where change is needed in our lives. Together we will learn more about ourselves. We will continue to grow.
We go through so much in our lives. Love and loss molds us to who we are today. People who have come me for counseling seek a voice, want a safe place to share their life's experiences and have a need to be understood. I offer a kind, non judgmental atmosphere, some guidance through points & places where change has happened or where change is needed in our lives. Together we will learn more about ourselves. We will continue to grow.
(281) 205-1159 View (281) 205-1159
Photo of Kathleen L Lanini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Kathleen L Lanini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
I combine research-based interventions with clinical experience to help individuals heal, improve well-being, and navigate life challenges. Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma and crisis protocols, and DBT-informed care. My clients, following treatment, report a reduction of negative symptoms, increased motivation, clarity, and hopefulness. And by learning and practicing mindfulness, my clients are more capable of breaking unhealthy thinking patterns and self-destructive behaviors by calmly focusing on the present to live the life they choose.
I combine research-based interventions with clinical experience to help individuals heal, improve well-being, and navigate life challenges. Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma and crisis protocols, and DBT-informed care. My clients, following treatment, report a reduction of negative symptoms, increased motivation, clarity, and hopefulness. And by learning and practicing mindfulness, my clients are more capable of breaking unhealthy thinking patterns and self-destructive behaviors by calmly focusing on the present to live the life they choose.
Photo of Courtney Vastine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77030, TX
Courtney Vastine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you stressed, feeling overwhelmed, or wondering how to resolve issues? Have you tried to feel better but just feel stuck? I'm Courtney, Texas-based Licensed mental health therapist and I welcome the opportunity to help you. My passion is helping people de-stress, find calm while helping you reach your goals. My clinical focus: adults facing anxiety, stress, trauma, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, career issues, ADHD, grief/loss, life changes, coping with a cancer diagnosis or chronic illness/pain, and many more. Recently, I completed Anxiety Management coursework at Harvard University.
Are you stressed, feeling overwhelmed, or wondering how to resolve issues? Have you tried to feel better but just feel stuck? I'm Courtney, Texas-based Licensed mental health therapist and I welcome the opportunity to help you. My passion is helping people de-stress, find calm while helping you reach your goals. My clinical focus: adults facing anxiety, stress, trauma, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, career issues, ADHD, grief/loss, life changes, coping with a cancer diagnosis or chronic illness/pain, and many more. Recently, I completed Anxiety Management coursework at Harvard University.
(281) 843-3393 View (281) 843-3393
Photo of Marilyn Denham, Marriage & Family Therapist in 77030, TX
Marilyn Denham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
There are times when we know that we need to make a change in our life. You might be noticing a quiet unrest, a consistent dissatisfaction, or the call to change may come through a life transition---a death, a loss, job or relationship stress, illness suddenly needing to care for elders or children moving home. The circumstances can vary, but the knowledge that change is needed is clear. My goal is to help you discover your true potential while we sort out what needs to be different, and lead you into a life that is worth celebrating.
There are times when we know that we need to make a change in our life. You might be noticing a quiet unrest, a consistent dissatisfaction, or the call to change may come through a life transition---a death, a loss, job or relationship stress, illness suddenly needing to care for elders or children moving home. The circumstances can vary, but the knowledge that change is needed is clear. My goal is to help you discover your true potential while we sort out what needs to be different, and lead you into a life that is worth celebrating.
(713) 487-8908 View (713) 487-8908
Photo of Eva-Maria Gortner, Psychologist in 77030, TX
Eva-Maria Gortner
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel that you are riding the waves of life alone? Storms are part of life, and they can be exhausting. Often stress and difficult situations can leave you feeling lost, not knowing where to start. However, you can learn how to weather life's storms. There is hope. My passion and mission is to offer a warm, safe, culturally sensitive space to help you through those hard times. I believe in helping people who are facing rough times to recognize their resilience and grow from personal difficulties.
Do you feel that you are riding the waves of life alone? Storms are part of life, and they can be exhausting. Often stress and difficult situations can leave you feeling lost, not knowing where to start. However, you can learn how to weather life's storms. There is hope. My passion and mission is to offer a warm, safe, culturally sensitive space to help you through those hard times. I believe in helping people who are facing rough times to recognize their resilience and grow from personal difficulties.
(713) 489-3215 View (713) 489-3215
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.