Photo of Denise Wilkerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Denise Wilkerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Therapy can be intimidating as it's one of the more intimate activities you will engage in. Of course, how could it not be; you walk into a room with a stranger, expecting to discuss in detail your inner thoughts, emotions, & current stressors. For therapy to work it's important you feel safe, welcomed & confident in your therapist. I can be that therapist for you. I will provide you & your family a warm, nurturing environment where you can begin to address your needs without fear of judgement or ridicule as we begin your journey toward healing.
Therapy can be intimidating as it's one of the more intimate activities you will engage in. Of course, how could it not be; you walk into a room with a stranger, expecting to discuss in detail your inner thoughts, emotions, & current stressors. For therapy to work it's important you feel safe, welcomed & confident in your therapist. I can be that therapist for you. I will provide you & your family a warm, nurturing environment where you can begin to address your needs without fear of judgement or ridicule as we begin your journey toward healing.
(925) 448-9274 View (925) 448-9274
Photo of Julie Garcia, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Julie Garcia, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I provide counseling services for all ages in individual, couples, and family therapy. I have extensive experience working with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, couples/marital issues, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction. I believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to help you understand yourself and others better, which can lead to more satisfying relationships and fulfillment in life. In therapy, I work alongside you, at your pace providing a warm, nurturing, and safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported in your growth.
I provide counseling services for all ages in individual, couples, and family therapy. I have extensive experience working with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, couples/marital issues, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction. I believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to help you understand yourself and others better, which can lead to more satisfying relationships and fulfillment in life. In therapy, I work alongside you, at your pace providing a warm, nurturing, and safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported in your growth.
(925) 231-9044 View (925) 231-9044
Photo of Sara Stokes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94513, CA
Sara Stokes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Family systems, psychodynamic, DBT, CBT, Humanistic, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Creative expression (group therapies).
Currently accepting new clients! I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, Life Skills and reality testing. Each patient is very individualistic in the approach. Customizing a treatment plan that is inclusive of the patient's goals and needs help to make the patient feel they are included in their process. I love to problem solve and help patient's create the awareness to build up to finding solutions from their problem saturated stories. I meet the patient where they are at and also implement challenges that will produce a level of accountability, free of judgement.
Family systems, psychodynamic, DBT, CBT, Humanistic, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Creative expression (group therapies).
Currently accepting new clients! I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, Life Skills and reality testing. Each patient is very individualistic in the approach. Customizing a treatment plan that is inclusive of the patient's goals and needs help to make the patient feel they are included in their process. I love to problem solve and help patient's create the awareness to build up to finding solutions from their problem saturated stories. I meet the patient where they are at and also implement challenges that will produce a level of accountability, free of judgement.
(925) 592-3230 View (925) 592-3230
Photo of Debra M Kobold, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Debra M Kobold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I will help you learn to appreciate your emotional identity through managing moods, thoughts, impulsiveness, reactivity, and harmful behaviors. I will help you strengthen or repair your relationships and build new ones. I'll help you cultivate confidence to ask for what you want, set boundaries with others, and navigate family issues. I can also teach you social skills if you feel out of place at work or school.
I will help you learn to appreciate your emotional identity through managing moods, thoughts, impulsiveness, reactivity, and harmful behaviors. I will help you strengthen or repair your relationships and build new ones. I'll help you cultivate confidence to ask for what you want, set boundaries with others, and navigate family issues. I can also teach you social skills if you feel out of place at work or school.
(925) 259-3746 View (925) 259-3746
Photo of Kira Monterrey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
Kira Monterrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Prior to seeing clients in a private practice setting, I provided therapy for over 1,000 combat Veterans, military sexual trauma Veterans and their family members for the Department of Veteran's Affairs.
One of the most important lessons I have learned as a therapist is that therapy requires more than a one size fits all approach. I treat every person as an individual. I lean on my years of experience and use a multitude of treatment modalities to treat your individual needs. We can work together to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. I have treated individuals with a variety of issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, dissociative identity disorder, substance abuse disorders, anger, and more. I have also helped families and couples achieve harmony and improve their relationships and communication.
Prior to seeing clients in a private practice setting, I provided therapy for over 1,000 combat Veterans, military sexual trauma Veterans and their family members for the Department of Veteran's Affairs.
One of the most important lessons I have learned as a therapist is that therapy requires more than a one size fits all approach. I treat every person as an individual. I lean on my years of experience and use a multitude of treatment modalities to treat your individual needs. We can work together to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. I have treated individuals with a variety of issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, dissociative identity disorder, substance abuse disorders, anger, and more. I have also helped families and couples achieve harmony and improve their relationships and communication.
(925) 643-2034 View (925) 643-2034
Photo of Charlotte Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
Charlotte Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I have worked with military members, veterans, and military family members for over 6 years including on base as a therapist at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and various veteran organizations.
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, have ADHD, or are navigating life transitions and intense personal relationships. The majority of my clients have experienced a recent traumatic event, childhood trauma or abuse, sexual trauma, intense or abusive relationships, substance use, medical trauma, combat trauma, and life impacted by the military. I utilize EMDR among other evidence based and trauma informed therapy modalities. I prioritize a very client centered, and individualized approach to therapy. I love working with clients who want to go deep or dig into solution focused work.
I have worked with military members, veterans, and military family members for over 6 years including on base as a therapist at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and various veteran organizations.
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, have ADHD, or are navigating life transitions and intense personal relationships. The majority of my clients have experienced a recent traumatic event, childhood trauma or abuse, sexual trauma, intense or abusive relationships, substance use, medical trauma, combat trauma, and life impacted by the military. I utilize EMDR among other evidence based and trauma informed therapy modalities. I prioritize a very client centered, and individualized approach to therapy. I love working with clients who want to go deep or dig into solution focused work.
(530) 212-7053 View (530) 212-7053
Photo of Steven East, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
Steven East
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
My name is Steven East. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) Therapist. I help clients struggling with Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Thought Disorders, Anger, Grief, Co-dependency, Family and Marital Discord, My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Steven East. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) Therapist. I help clients struggling with Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Thought Disorders, Anger, Grief, Co-dependency, Family and Marital Discord, My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(925) 307-8972 View (925) 307-8972
Photo of Healthy Minds Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
Healthy Minds Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Welcome to Healthy Minds Counseling Center, where we are dedicated to providing top-notch mental health counseling and psychiatry services. Our team of highly qualified professionals is committed to creating a nurturing environment, a sanctuary where individuals from the community can embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental health, enhanced wellbeing, and an enriched quality of life. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including individual, couples, and family therapy. Additionally, we curate a diverse selection of groups and workshops throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and support.
Welcome to Healthy Minds Counseling Center, where we are dedicated to providing top-notch mental health counseling and psychiatry services. Our team of highly qualified professionals is committed to creating a nurturing environment, a sanctuary where individuals from the community can embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental health, enhanced wellbeing, and an enriched quality of life. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including individual, couples, and family therapy. Additionally, we curate a diverse selection of groups and workshops throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and support.
(925) 663-8158 View (925) 663-8158
Photo of Brittany Phillips Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94513, CA
Brittany Phillips Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
(619) 345-5992 View (619) 345-5992
Photo of Dr. Roxanna Manfredi-Giammona, Psychologist in 94513, CA
Dr. Roxanna Manfredi-Giammona
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I strongly believe that every individual is unique and no person or family is the same as another. As a bi-lingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have had the pleasure to work with a diverse group of adults, children, and families. I have over 25 years experience working in psychotherapy, crisis intervention with domestic violence, child court advocate, as a forensic psychologist, and as a family court mediator. I assist children and families as they work through challenges and move toward rebuilding their self-confidence and creates a more positive outlook in life.
I strongly believe that every individual is unique and no person or family is the same as another. As a bi-lingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have had the pleasure to work with a diverse group of adults, children, and families. I have over 25 years experience working in psychotherapy, crisis intervention with domestic violence, child court advocate, as a forensic psychologist, and as a family court mediator. I assist children and families as they work through challenges and move toward rebuilding their self-confidence and creates a more positive outlook in life.
(925) 799-2295 View (925) 799-2295
Photo of Demetra Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
Demetra Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a licensed Psychotherapist and certified Mediator with over fifteen years of experience working with women, men, children, and adolescents from diverse backgrounds, providing crisis intervention, risk assessment, individual and family therapy. I provide a supportive environment and build upon your personal strengths and resilience. Therapy can be an opportunity to help you take control of your own feelings and behavior by uncovering connections between past experiences and/or your current symptoms.
I am a licensed Psychotherapist and certified Mediator with over fifteen years of experience working with women, men, children, and adolescents from diverse backgrounds, providing crisis intervention, risk assessment, individual and family therapy. I provide a supportive environment and build upon your personal strengths and resilience. Therapy can be an opportunity to help you take control of your own feelings and behavior by uncovering connections between past experiences and/or your current symptoms.
(925) 402-4188 View (925) 402-4188
Photo of Queen Adu-Poku At Royal Emotional Care Group , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
Queen Adu-Poku At Royal Emotional Care Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I use several treatment modalities: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family therapy, Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Are you in need of support, empathy, understanding, patience, and the need to make changes? Life is so uncertain with so many struggles, difficulties and pain. Life is also full of opportunity, beauty, joy and love. Sometimes help is needed to develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges and to embrace your place of peace. Every individual is unique and has the power of choice. Finding the balance between the duality of life is worth the time and effort to enjoy an inner peace. If you are looking for help to find your balance in life and making positive choices, please contact us at Royal Emotional Care
I use several treatment modalities: EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family therapy, Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Are you in need of support, empathy, understanding, patience, and the need to make changes? Life is so uncertain with so many struggles, difficulties and pain. Life is also full of opportunity, beauty, joy and love. Sometimes help is needed to develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges and to embrace your place of peace. Every individual is unique and has the power of choice. Finding the balance between the duality of life is worth the time and effort to enjoy an inner peace. If you are looking for help to find your balance in life and making positive choices, please contact us at Royal Emotional Care
(925) 391-2435 View (925) 391-2435
Photo of A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94513, CA
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Photo of Jose Gomez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Jose Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Hello, I am Jose Xipe Gomez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to join you on your recovery path to heal from what life challenges brings us. The hardest journey is the one you take from your head to your heart. The Healing Journey is found in the path leading back from your heart to your head. Your wellness is found in the continuous flow of honoring both your thoughts and feelings. I work with people from all walks of life, children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I am able to serve monolingual Spanish speaking people. I am comfortable in treating all human conditions including severe mental illness.
Hello, I am Jose Xipe Gomez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to join you on your recovery path to heal from what life challenges brings us. The hardest journey is the one you take from your head to your heart. The Healing Journey is found in the path leading back from your heart to your head. Your wellness is found in the continuous flow of honoring both your thoughts and feelings. I work with people from all walks of life, children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I am able to serve monolingual Spanish speaking people. I am comfortable in treating all human conditions including severe mental illness.
(805) 572-6948 View (805) 572-6948
Photo of Shawna Cobabe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
(925) 329-6259 View (925) 329-6259
Photo of Andrea Milwidsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Andrea Milwidsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
If you are in need of an empathic, gentle, and collaborative therapist for yourself, your child /teen or family, please make contact and we can have a conversation about the therapeutic possibilities I provide in my LMFT practice.
Through establishing a genuine therapeutic connection in a compassionate environment we can collaboratively unpack difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing and look at possibilities towards overcoming these towards living a more manageable and satisfying life. I utilize various methods and approaches towards this end and work with a diverse population of children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. I treat a wide variety of issues with ease in a present and nonjudgmental manner.
If you are in need of an empathic, gentle, and collaborative therapist for yourself, your child /teen or family, please make contact and we can have a conversation about the therapeutic possibilities I provide in my LMFT practice.
Through establishing a genuine therapeutic connection in a compassionate environment we can collaboratively unpack difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing and look at possibilities towards overcoming these towards living a more manageable and satisfying life. I utilize various methods and approaches towards this end and work with a diverse population of children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. I treat a wide variety of issues with ease in a present and nonjudgmental manner.
(424) 232-0579 View (424) 232-0579
Photo of Dave Hunter Fein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94513, CA
Dave Hunter Fein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117039 ), working under the supervision of Cristy Pareti, PsyD, LMFT. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University and received my Bachelors Degree from Emerson College. My Clinical experience includes working with individuals whom struggle with anxiety, depression, life skills, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma and interpersonal relationship difficulties.My modality is a mixture of of many psychological techniques as well as creative skills. This includes a blend of existentialism, mindfulness, humor, art and behavioral skills.
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117039 ), working under the supervision of Cristy Pareti, PsyD, LMFT. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University and received my Bachelors Degree from Emerson College. My Clinical experience includes working with individuals whom struggle with anxiety, depression, life skills, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma and interpersonal relationship difficulties.My modality is a mixture of of many psychological techniques as well as creative skills. This includes a blend of existentialism, mindfulness, humor, art and behavioral skills.
(475) 234-0201 View (475) 234-0201
Photo of Charlin Amber Lumia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Charlin Amber Lumia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and thank you for taking the time to view my profile and taking the first step in your journey. Everyone has a unique story and circumstances. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed and don't know where to start. I am here to help navigate the process and identify needs and goals. What do you want from therapy? If things were better what would they look like? What is your best possible you and life? Are you as happy as you can be? No goal is too big or too small :) Therapy is a collaborative process and mutual trust is critical to success.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to view my profile and taking the first step in your journey. Everyone has a unique story and circumstances. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed and don't know where to start. I am here to help navigate the process and identify needs and goals. What do you want from therapy? If things were better what would they look like? What is your best possible you and life? Are you as happy as you can be? No goal is too big or too small :) Therapy is a collaborative process and mutual trust is critical to success.
(925) 701-8929 View (925) 701-8929
Photo of Ryan Pritchard, Psychologist in 94513, CA
Ryan Pritchard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Ever feel like you're alone and not sure if anyone else is going through what you're going through? Ever want to just feel heard, listened to, or understood without feeling judged or criticized? Want to have a better understanding as to why you feel what you're feeling or why you're feeling a certain way? If you're looking for a better understanding of what's going on in your mind and why look no further! Together, we'll break down your experiences and help you understand them! I've worked with a variety of people that come from even more diverse backgrounds.
Ever feel like you're alone and not sure if anyone else is going through what you're going through? Ever want to just feel heard, listened to, or understood without feeling judged or criticized? Want to have a better understanding as to why you feel what you're feeling or why you're feeling a certain way? If you're looking for a better understanding of what's going on in your mind and why look no further! Together, we'll break down your experiences and help you understand them! I've worked with a variety of people that come from even more diverse backgrounds.
(925) 430-7912 View (925) 430-7912
Photo of Stacey Bankston, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94513, CA
Stacey Bankston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCATP, CGP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Waitlist for new clients
Our thoughts, emotions and actions are all connected. During periods of high stress, negative thoughts and overwhelming emotion can cause dysfunction in our daily lives. Therapy can support you in reframing negative thoughts, so you can better manage your emotional experience and thus, change harmful actions toward yourself and others. My experience includes working with adolescents, teens, families and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, eating disorders, opposition, relationship and behavioral problems. I believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership between the client and therapist.
Our thoughts, emotions and actions are all connected. During periods of high stress, negative thoughts and overwhelming emotion can cause dysfunction in our daily lives. Therapy can support you in reframing negative thoughts, so you can better manage your emotional experience and thus, change harmful actions toward yourself and others. My experience includes working with adolescents, teens, families and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, eating disorders, opposition, relationship and behavioral problems. I believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership between the client and therapist.
(925) 275-5919 View (925) 275-5919
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.