Photo of Chad Routon (Enteave Counseling), LMFT, LCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chad Routon (Enteave Counseling)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, family systems, and dialectical behavioral techniques.
Each person has the gifts needed to take on any challenge. Sometimes people just need a little help unlocking those gifts. That is where I come in. I am here to support and empower you from the very first counseling session. A licensed marriage and family therapist and a chemical dependency counselor, I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, family systems, and dialectical behavioral techniques.
Each person has the gifts needed to take on any challenge. Sometimes people just need a little help unlocking those gifts. That is where I come in. I am here to support and empower you from the very first counseling session. A licensed marriage and family therapist and a chemical dependency counselor, I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues.
(512) 798-0785 View (512) 798-0785
Photo of Jimmy K Myers, PhD, LPC-S, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jimmy K Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CSAT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
As a PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT and Co-Owner/Executive Director of The Timothy Center, my daily focus is on helping others find God's solutions to life challenges. In the many years of counseling couples, individuals, teens and their families, my experience has shown me that it is never too late to turn your life or the life of your family around. With extensive training, the right assessment tools, and your commitment to hard work, together we can work on reshaping how we think, remember, and behave.
As a PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT and Co-Owner/Executive Director of The Timothy Center, my daily focus is on helping others find God's solutions to life challenges. In the many years of counseling couples, individuals, teens and their families, my experience has shown me that it is never too late to turn your life or the life of your family around. With extensive training, the right assessment tools, and your commitment to hard work, together we can work on reshaping how we think, remember, and behave.
(512) 331-2700 View (512) 331-2700
Photo of Jill Racine, PhD, Psychologist
Jill Racine
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Racine offers individual and family services for children, adolescents, and adults.
Racine Anxiety and OCD Practice is currently accepting new clients (updated 1/1/2024). Dr. Racine is a compassionate Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety and related conditions. She has expertise with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and habit-reversal therapy for the treatment of obsessive compulsive, panic, anxiety, and pediatric mental health conditions. Dr. Racine is co-author of the self-help guide: From Misery To Mastery: A Revolutionary New Treatment for Anxiety and Depression.
Racine offers individual and family services for children, adolescents, and adults.
Racine Anxiety and OCD Practice is currently accepting new clients (updated 1/1/2024). Dr. Racine is a compassionate Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety and related conditions. She has expertise with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and habit-reversal therapy for the treatment of obsessive compulsive, panic, anxiety, and pediatric mental health conditions. Dr. Racine is co-author of the self-help guide: From Misery To Mastery: A Revolutionary New Treatment for Anxiety and Depression.
(512) 337-4200 View (512) 337-4200
Photo of Ashley Ratcliffe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Ratcliffe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Ashley utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Family Systems theoretical lenses.
Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples. She is passionate about helping others find the link between the way we process emotions and how we experience the world. Ashley specializes in anxiety, adjustment, relationship issues, and parent coaching. Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples.
Ashley utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Family Systems theoretical lenses.
Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples. She is passionate about helping others find the link between the way we process emotions and how we experience the world. Ashley specializes in anxiety, adjustment, relationship issues, and parent coaching. Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples.
(512) 598-9679 View (512) 598-9679
Photo of Keri Moran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri Moran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Children & Teens: Sometimes children go through a tough time or feel overwhelmed, and it has an impact on the whole family. Parents may feel frustrated or confused about how to help their children. They may feel that nothing will change. I partner with children, teens, and parents who are struggling with challenging behavior, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, and other concerns that are creating a disruption in relationships. I love helping children build coping skills in order to manage what they are going through. I help parents strengthen their relationship with their child and build on their existing parenting strategies.
Children & Teens: Sometimes children go through a tough time or feel overwhelmed, and it has an impact on the whole family. Parents may feel frustrated or confused about how to help their children. They may feel that nothing will change. I partner with children, teens, and parents who are struggling with challenging behavior, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, and other concerns that are creating a disruption in relationships. I love helping children build coping skills in order to manage what they are going through. I help parents strengthen their relationship with their child and build on their existing parenting strategies.
(737) 204-6647 View (737) 204-6647
Photo of Kaye Love - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Austin, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Austin
Counselor
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(737) 510-4270 View (737) 510-4270
Photo of Sarah Lea, MA, LPC
Sarah Lea
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I am a graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary with a Master’s degree in Counseling. My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, athletes, eating disorders, and family dynamics. I have experience working in a residential treatment center for eating disorders. I am trained to integrate psychology and Christianity for those clients who are interested. I am married, and we have two beautiful girls ages 7, 9. In my spare time I enjoy talking, drinking tea, reading, spending time with friends, running, and spending time with family. I love nature and enjoy being outside as much as possible.
I am a graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary with a Master’s degree in Counseling. My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, athletes, eating disorders, and family dynamics. I have experience working in a residential treatment center for eating disorders. I am trained to integrate psychology and Christianity for those clients who are interested. I am married, and we have two beautiful girls ages 7, 9. In my spare time I enjoy talking, drinking tea, reading, spending time with friends, running, and spending time with family. I love nature and enjoy being outside as much as possible.
(832) 979-5418 View (832) 979-5418
Photo of Kachanda Hewitt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kachanda Hewitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I have always had a heart to help others. I have had the opportunity to provide counseling services, mentoring, and life coaching in the community, private, and educational sector. Providing counseling and mentoring to families to improve families’ dynamics in the form of family, couples, individual, and group counseling has been my passion for many years.
I have always had a heart to help others. I have had the opportunity to provide counseling services, mentoring, and life coaching in the community, private, and educational sector. Providing counseling and mentoring to families to improve families’ dynamics in the form of family, couples, individual, and group counseling has been my passion for many years.
(737) 252-8235 View (737) 252-8235
Photo of Stephen Kolar, PhD, Psychologist
Stephen Kolar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I have openings as of September 9, 2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or upset over conflict that you may have with others in your life? Are you unsure of what to do to improve your situation, boost your mood, and feel comfortable with your life? Maybe you're facing challenges at school, with peers, or with other family members. Let's work together to find solutions to the difficulties that you are facing. Online therapy is very effective, creates a connection between client and therapist, and is extremely convenient for clients.
I have openings as of September 9, 2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or upset over conflict that you may have with others in your life? Are you unsure of what to do to improve your situation, boost your mood, and feel comfortable with your life? Maybe you're facing challenges at school, with peers, or with other family members. Let's work together to find solutions to the difficulties that you are facing. Online therapy is very effective, creates a connection between client and therapist, and is extremely convenient for clients.
(737) 204-8647 View (737) 204-8647
Photo of Marvi Arredondo Haynes, Austin Psychotherapy, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marvi Arredondo Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, Austin Psychotherapy, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I include parents to encourages them to be participants in the growth and positive change in the family.
Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss and grief, mid-life crisis, disappointment and stagnation are only a few of the reasons an individual seeks counseling. My therapeutic approach in working with an individual is to explore the meaning of life-altering events and to bring understanding and enduring ways to cope. I focus on strengths in the individual and work in a warm, non-judgmental way that feels safe. My role is to provide empathic listening and support while acting as a guide in removing the barriers and patterns that have developed over a lifetime.
I include parents to encourages them to be participants in the growth and positive change in the family.
Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss and grief, mid-life crisis, disappointment and stagnation are only a few of the reasons an individual seeks counseling. My therapeutic approach in working with an individual is to explore the meaning of life-altering events and to bring understanding and enduring ways to cope. I focus on strengths in the individual and work in a warm, non-judgmental way that feels safe. My role is to provide empathic listening and support while acting as a guide in removing the barriers and patterns that have developed over a lifetime.
(512) 686-1934 View (512) 686-1934
Photo of Brittany (Neece) Whallen, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittany (Neece) Whallen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
(512) 814-6027 View (512) 814-6027
Photo of Catherine Porter Glass, LCSW-S, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Porter Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MDiv
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Collaborative space to explore what you're experiencing - together with evidence-based interventions - offers possibility for dynamic change. I join with clients to move forward from traumatic experiences, better manage anxiety and depression, cope with new medical diagnoses or chronic illness. I support those going through family transitions, such as new parents, single parents, and relationship changes. I also work with those experiencing existential, religious, or spiritual questions.
Collaborative space to explore what you're experiencing - together with evidence-based interventions - offers possibility for dynamic change. I join with clients to move forward from traumatic experiences, better manage anxiety and depression, cope with new medical diagnoses or chronic illness. I support those going through family transitions, such as new parents, single parents, and relationship changes. I also work with those experiencing existential, religious, or spiritual questions.
(737) 252-1510 View (737) 252-1510
Photo of Stephanie Sifuentes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Sifuentes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Life can be so hard and confusing. We are stretched to the limit trying to fill our many roles and hats we wear. It can be helpful to have someone by your side as you struggle to make sense of it all. Deciding to come to therapy or bring your child to therapy doesn't have to be a scary experience. I want to offer you a place of acceptance and peace in the midst of life's chaos. Let me walk alongside you and your family on your journey through the difficulties of life. I have over 15yrs experience helping people find their path to healing from the hurts of the past to create the possibility of a brighter future. Let's find yours.
Life can be so hard and confusing. We are stretched to the limit trying to fill our many roles and hats we wear. It can be helpful to have someone by your side as you struggle to make sense of it all. Deciding to come to therapy or bring your child to therapy doesn't have to be a scary experience. I want to offer you a place of acceptance and peace in the midst of life's chaos. Let me walk alongside you and your family on your journey through the difficulties of life. I have over 15yrs experience helping people find their path to healing from the hurts of the past to create the possibility of a brighter future. Let's find yours.
(737) 204-6523 View (737) 204-6523
Photo of James Allen Carter-Haith Jr, PhD, CART, Psychologist
James Allen Carter-Haith Jr
Psychologist, PhD, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
As a retired Army Combat veteran I also have an interest in helping service members, veterans, and their family members minimize negative effects of current life stressors that can affect, their work, social and family relationships.
Many of life's stressors continue to interfere with the potential joys of life, we can work together to help you minimize the effect of life's stressors so you can begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
As a retired Army Combat veteran I also have an interest in helping service members, veterans, and their family members minimize negative effects of current life stressors that can affect, their work, social and family relationships.
Many of life's stressors continue to interfere with the potential joys of life, we can work together to help you minimize the effect of life's stressors so you can begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
(979) 227-2303 View (979) 227-2303
Photo of Grace Gould - Moonstone Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moonstone Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Moonstone Counseling serves people across the lifespan. Clinicians specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults and older adults. We also offer couples and family therapy. Clients come to Moonstone because they are seeking a therapist who is compassionate, reliable and understands the impact of living in a complex world. In additional to traditional psychotherapy, Moonstone also offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which is grounded in relationship and integration. We believe therapy should be accessible and we proudly accept insurance.
Moonstone Counseling serves people across the lifespan. Clinicians specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults and older adults. We also offer couples and family therapy. Clients come to Moonstone because they are seeking a therapist who is compassionate, reliable and understands the impact of living in a complex world. In additional to traditional psychotherapy, Moonstone also offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which is grounded in relationship and integration. We believe therapy should be accessible and we proudly accept insurance.
(512) 580-8377 View (512) 580-8377
Photo of Merrik Hetherington, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Merrik Hetherington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Outside of work, I enjoy watching movies, hiking with my dog Artimus, going on adventures with my friends and family, kickboxing, and listening to live music.
I work with children, teens, parents, young adults, and families (nuclear, separation/divorce, and blended). Counseling is BIG stuff, and it takes courage to start the process. I believe that each of us has the ability to make powerful, positive, growth-oriented changes in their lives. I strive to build a relationship of trust with my clients so we can tackle life's chaos and challenges. Unique to me, I like to employ humor into my sessions and engage with my clients through different modalities aside from traditional talk therapy including games, art, music, and writing.
Outside of work, I enjoy watching movies, hiking with my dog Artimus, going on adventures with my friends and family, kickboxing, and listening to live music.
I work with children, teens, parents, young adults, and families (nuclear, separation/divorce, and blended). Counseling is BIG stuff, and it takes courage to start the process. I believe that each of us has the ability to make powerful, positive, growth-oriented changes in their lives. I strive to build a relationship of trust with my clients so we can tackle life's chaos and challenges. Unique to me, I like to employ humor into my sessions and engage with my clients through different modalities aside from traditional talk therapy including games, art, music, and writing.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Brittany Whallen - ATX Therapy Center, LPC, LMFT, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
ATX Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Here are some examples of what we can offer during sessions: Improving communication skills, setting boundaries, creating healthy coping skills to manage overwhelming situations, navigating the waves of grief, building healthier couples & family relationships, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, & managing chronic pain or illness (just to name a few).
It takes great courage to recognize when you could use some additional support in your life, and even more courage to take the first step in reaching out. It may feel easier at times to suffer in silence. ATX Therapy Center is very glad you're here - you deserve to receive the support you need to overcome life's challenges that you are facing, and live your best life. Our team of expert, professional clinicians have experience in helping people with a wide variety of life situations and struggles. We accept most major insurance plans and want to make sure that you have access to affordable, quality healthcare - we're here to help!
Here are some examples of what we can offer during sessions: Improving communication skills, setting boundaries, creating healthy coping skills to manage overwhelming situations, navigating the waves of grief, building healthier couples & family relationships, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, & managing chronic pain or illness (just to name a few).
It takes great courage to recognize when you could use some additional support in your life, and even more courage to take the first step in reaching out. It may feel easier at times to suffer in silence. ATX Therapy Center is very glad you're here - you deserve to receive the support you need to overcome life's challenges that you are facing, and live your best life. Our team of expert, professional clinicians have experience in helping people with a wide variety of life situations and struggles. We accept most major insurance plans and want to make sure that you have access to affordable, quality healthcare - we're here to help!
(737) 265-7408 View (737) 265-7408
Photo of Amy Recio - Amy's Healing Haven, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy's Healing Haven
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Waitlist for new clients
Within my specialties are emotion focused therapy, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Welcome :) I'm Amy and my goal as a therapist is to aid you in the process of healing attachment wounds, relationship trauma, and building healthy relationships. Throughout the course of our life, starting from when we're just children, we experience a variety of relationships that affect how we navigate our interactions with others in our day to day life. With unhealthy bonds, boundaries being broken, codependency and abuse, many struggle to uphold their values and self worth. I aim to help you find your best self, self love, and strength to take charge in your future. I strive to help you on the journey to finding a healthy life.
Within my specialties are emotion focused therapy, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Welcome :) I'm Amy and my goal as a therapist is to aid you in the process of healing attachment wounds, relationship trauma, and building healthy relationships. Throughout the course of our life, starting from when we're just children, we experience a variety of relationships that affect how we navigate our interactions with others in our day to day life. With unhealthy bonds, boundaries being broken, codependency and abuse, many struggle to uphold their values and self worth. I aim to help you find your best self, self love, and strength to take charge in your future. I strive to help you on the journey to finding a healthy life.
(512) 399-1613 View (512) 399-1613
Photo of Cristina Peck, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Peck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I offer individual, couples and family therapy.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
I offer individual, couples and family therapy.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
(512) 948-3538 View (512) 948-3538
Photo of Anna Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
In times when we are feeling stuck or challenged, therapy can provide a space for healing, growth, and self-understanding. I use a client centered, strength-based approach that focuses on fostering a safe, therapeutic environment. I will aim to support you in building self-awareness and increasing self-esteem. I have experience working with a variety of clinical issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and trauma in individuals of all ages. Additionally, I have specialized training in working with children and families, and love partnering with children and caregivers to support connection.
In times when we are feeling stuck or challenged, therapy can provide a space for healing, growth, and self-understanding. I use a client centered, strength-based approach that focuses on fostering a safe, therapeutic environment. I will aim to support you in building self-awareness and increasing self-esteem. I have experience working with a variety of clinical issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and trauma in individuals of all ages. Additionally, I have specialized training in working with children and families, and love partnering with children and caregivers to support connection.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
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.