Photo of Sheva Melmed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Sheva Melmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West End, Washington, DC 20037
My practice includes listening from a psychodynamic perspective (understanding family and intergenerational dynamics) , focusing on the here and now through somatic and mindfulness techniques, developing a person's intuition, and understanding how a person relates to people in their life through the therapeutic relationship.
It is brave to choose how you want to craft your life. Many people are struggling through big life transitions, are unhappy in their relationships, or they want to move past anxiety and depression. Therapy is a place to understand what is happening now, and how to create something different and better to feel more satisfied. If this is you, I offer a space to look at and understand what is happening in your life, and how you can regain a sense of agency to create what you want. I am warm and engaging, and together we find patterns in your life that keep showing up and getting in your way. We look at how to cultivate what you want.
My practice includes listening from a psychodynamic perspective (understanding family and intergenerational dynamics) , focusing on the here and now through somatic and mindfulness techniques, developing a person's intuition, and understanding how a person relates to people in their life through the therapeutic relationship.
It is brave to choose how you want to craft your life. Many people are struggling through big life transitions, are unhappy in their relationships, or they want to move past anxiety and depression. Therapy is a place to understand what is happening now, and how to create something different and better to feel more satisfied. If this is you, I offer a space to look at and understand what is happening in your life, and how you can regain a sense of agency to create what you want. I am warm and engaging, and together we find patterns in your life that keep showing up and getting in your way. We look at how to cultivate what you want.
(202) 952-8507 View (202) 952-8507
Photo of Madelaine Claire Weiss in West End, Washington, DC
Madelaine Claire Weiss
LICSW, MBA, BCC
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Harvard trained practitioner and Board Certified Coach with > 30 years experience helping people find success and satisfaction in work and life. Together we will define where you want to go in your life & how you will get there - with special emphasis on what's in the way. You may work on one or more parts of your life. Since 'You are You' wherever you may go, you may find that gains you make in one part of your life significantly improve other parts too. You will decide which part(s) of your life you want to work on. These may include: Work, Play, Family, Friends, Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, Money, Romance...
Hello, I am a Harvard trained practitioner and Board Certified Coach with > 30 years experience helping people find success and satisfaction in work and life. Together we will define where you want to go in your life & how you will get there - with special emphasis on what's in the way. You may work on one or more parts of your life. Since 'You are You' wherever you may go, you may find that gains you make in one part of your life significantly improve other parts too. You will decide which part(s) of your life you want to work on. These may include: Work, Play, Family, Friends, Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, Money, Romance...
(202) 499-4550 View (202) 499-4550
Photo of Mina Barimany, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, Washington, DC
Mina Barimany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20037
Unlike many professionals who treat a range of issues, Dr. Barimany has cultivated a specialization in adult cognitive development. Human beings have fundamental needs for intra-personal and inter-personal happiness: the ability to perceive reality accurately, to know oneself, be in fulfilling relationships, and make healthy decisions. Dr. Barimany's work focuses on helping individuals, couples, and mental health professionals develop parts of the mind that are ripe for growth to improve the quality of life, cultivate professional growth, and find intrinsic freedom and happiness.
Unlike many professionals who treat a range of issues, Dr. Barimany has cultivated a specialization in adult cognitive development. Human beings have fundamental needs for intra-personal and inter-personal happiness: the ability to perceive reality accurately, to know oneself, be in fulfilling relationships, and make healthy decisions. Dr. Barimany's work focuses on helping individuals, couples, and mental health professionals develop parts of the mind that are ripe for growth to improve the quality of life, cultivate professional growth, and find intrinsic freedom and happiness.
(202) 838-4017 x1 View (202) 838-4017 x1
Photo of Frog Point Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, Washington, DC
Frog Point Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20037
Frog Point Therapy are DC's relationship experts. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of being human: relationship to self, others, and the world. Our therapists specialize in curating a highly individualized treatment experience. We integrate classic western psychotherapeutic approaches, eastern wisdom traditions, and modern research on human development to help clients create stronger bonds with ourselves, the people in our lives, and the world around us and believe that healthy relationships on all three levels are essential to well-being and happiness.
Frog Point Therapy are DC's relationship experts. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of being human: relationship to self, others, and the world. Our therapists specialize in curating a highly individualized treatment experience. We integrate classic western psychotherapeutic approaches, eastern wisdom traditions, and modern research on human development to help clients create stronger bonds with ourselves, the people in our lives, and the world around us and believe that healthy relationships on all three levels are essential to well-being and happiness.
(202) 519-1046 x1 View (202) 519-1046 x1
Photo of Noelle Stabler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Noelle Stabler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Using a non-judgmental, empathic, and warm approach, I like to meet each client where they are at and utilize the modalities that best suit their needs. I believe that by creating a safe space to feel heard and understood, the therapeutic relationship can foster increased self-awareness, acceptance, and personal growth in many ways. I enjoy working with women, including college/graduate students and young adults. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, women’s issues, body image/self-esteem issues, and managing life stressors and transitions.
Using a non-judgmental, empathic, and warm approach, I like to meet each client where they are at and utilize the modalities that best suit their needs. I believe that by creating a safe space to feel heard and understood, the therapeutic relationship can foster increased self-awareness, acceptance, and personal growth in many ways. I enjoy working with women, including college/graduate students and young adults. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, women’s issues, body image/self-esteem issues, and managing life stressors and transitions.
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Photo of Tanisha T. Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Tanisha T. Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
Tanisha Richardson is devoted to those who want to improve their mental health. She supports and guides individuals who are facing mental anguish. Together with you, she develops a restorative approach through the use of interventions, tailored coping techniques, and personalized methods that move you forward.
Tanisha Richardson is devoted to those who want to improve their mental health. She supports and guides individuals who are facing mental anguish. Together with you, she develops a restorative approach through the use of interventions, tailored coping techniques, and personalized methods that move you forward.
(202) 759-0303 View (202) 759-0303
Photo of Mary C Quigley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Mary C Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals. My specialties include grief counseling, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and couples conflict. I have over 30 years of experience working with young adults in university settings and with individuals and couples in private practice. I have been the head clinician in an eating disorder and mood disorder clinic at a major university. I am particularly interested in working with clients who are struggling with low self worth and self loathing. I also have an expertise in working with gay couples.
I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals. My specialties include grief counseling, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and couples conflict. I have over 30 years of experience working with young adults in university settings and with individuals and couples in private practice. I have been the head clinician in an eating disorder and mood disorder clinic at a major university. I am particularly interested in working with clients who are struggling with low self worth and self loathing. I also have an expertise in working with gay couples.
(202) 417-2746 View (202) 417-2746
Photo of Brooke Croft, Marriage & Family Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Brooke Croft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, Washington, DC 20037
As an Aasect Certified Sex Therapist, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space using light humor to talk about all things sex. Physical and emotional intimacy can be difficult topics to broach, whether with yourself or with one or more partners. For most of us, sex was not discussed at any length growing up, often shrouded in shame or guilt. If something has been bothering you for awhile or it just popped up, let's explore it! I work with your comfort level and at your pace. I work with low sexual desire, avoidance of intimacy, sexual identity or orientation, gender identity, Sexual anxiety, and sexual dysfunctions.
As an Aasect Certified Sex Therapist, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space using light humor to talk about all things sex. Physical and emotional intimacy can be difficult topics to broach, whether with yourself or with one or more partners. For most of us, sex was not discussed at any length growing up, often shrouded in shame or guilt. If something has been bothering you for awhile or it just popped up, let's explore it! I work with your comfort level and at your pace. I work with low sexual desire, avoidance of intimacy, sexual identity or orientation, gender identity, Sexual anxiety, and sexual dysfunctions.
(571) 554-6366 View (571) 554-6366
Photo of Susan Theon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Susan Theon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West End, Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging. It can also be wonderful and beautiful. When we struggle with our mental health it is easy to feel overwhelmed and worry that things will never get better. The good news is that it can get better and you have more power to change than you realize. I am a licensed clinical social worker and received my academic training at Columbia University and Virginia Commonwealth University. I work with clients struggling with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief, loss, and life transitions.
Life can be challenging. It can also be wonderful and beautiful. When we struggle with our mental health it is easy to feel overwhelmed and worry that things will never get better. The good news is that it can get better and you have more power to change than you realize. I am a licensed clinical social worker and received my academic training at Columbia University and Virginia Commonwealth University. I work with clients struggling with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief, loss, and life transitions.
(571) 581-6548 View (571) 581-6548
Photo of Lisa W. Hill, Psychologist in West End, Washington, DC
Lisa W. Hill
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West End, Washington, DC 20037
In my practice I treat women, ages 18-45, dealing with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, disordered eating, body image disturbances, anxiety, perfectionism, and depression, as well as relationship and identity issues. Therapy can be helpful as you navigate times of transition, change, or if you are 'stuck' or unable to achieve desired goals. Together, we will determine what is getting in the way of progress and then help you work through those things to become the best possible version of yourself.
In my practice I treat women, ages 18-45, dealing with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, disordered eating, body image disturbances, anxiety, perfectionism, and depression, as well as relationship and identity issues. Therapy can be helpful as you navigate times of transition, change, or if you are 'stuck' or unable to achieve desired goals. Together, we will determine what is getting in the way of progress and then help you work through those things to become the best possible version of yourself.
(202) 851-9730 View (202) 851-9730

Online Therapists

Photo of Katie Jacobi, Counselor in West End, Washington, DC
Katie Jacobi
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Struggling to navigate your 20s or 30s? Feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a negative cycle that you can't seem to get out of? Sick of being so hard on yourself, but no matter what you do, you still don't feel good enough? Wondering why being an "adult" seems so tough, while everyone else seems to have figured it out? You’re not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If it feels like you've tried everything, and the support of friends and family hasn’t been enough, it's time for a change.
Struggling to navigate your 20s or 30s? Feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a negative cycle that you can't seem to get out of? Sick of being so hard on yourself, but no matter what you do, you still don't feel good enough? Wondering why being an "adult" seems so tough, while everyone else seems to have figured it out? You’re not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If it feels like you've tried everything, and the support of friends and family hasn’t been enough, it's time for a change.
(202) 335-5293 View (202) 335-5293
Photo of Heather Hunt: My Deaf Therapy, Psychologist in West End, Washington, DC
Heather Hunt: My Deaf Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
The decision to seek out a therapist is an important first step towards positively addressing conflicts, managing distress, and learning to cope with negative or overwhelming feelings. Our team of therapists bring years of therapy experience. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are Deaf or come from Deaf families (includes hearing family/friends who sign). We provide a supportive, nurturing environment. We use a multimodal approach incorporating mind-body therapies with evidence-based treatments. We also offer forensic-clinical services and applied behavior analysis treatment.
The decision to seek out a therapist is an important first step towards positively addressing conflicts, managing distress, and learning to cope with negative or overwhelming feelings. Our team of therapists bring years of therapy experience. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are Deaf or come from Deaf families (includes hearing family/friends who sign). We provide a supportive, nurturing environment. We use a multimodal approach incorporating mind-body therapies with evidence-based treatments. We also offer forensic-clinical services and applied behavior analysis treatment.
(240) 575-2203 View (240) 575-2203
Photo of District Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
District Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
With over a decade of experience, we use an eclectic approach, drawing on humanism, CBT, internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic theory, mindfulness meditation, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), and attachment theory.
District Psychotherapy is a counseling practice serving Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We specialize in young and middle-age adults (18-40’s) facing life challenges and/or mental health issues; or simply seeking greater fulfillment in life. Our most common treatment areas are anxiety, depression, career & relationship difficulties, ADHD, OCD, panic attacks, and trauma—among others. Sometimes just feeling stuck or adrift.
With over a decade of experience, we use an eclectic approach, drawing on humanism, CBT, internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic theory, mindfulness meditation, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), and attachment theory.
District Psychotherapy is a counseling practice serving Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We specialize in young and middle-age adults (18-40’s) facing life challenges and/or mental health issues; or simply seeking greater fulfillment in life. Our most common treatment areas are anxiety, depression, career & relationship difficulties, ADHD, OCD, panic attacks, and trauma—among others. Sometimes just feeling stuck or adrift.
(833) 465-0720 View (833) 465-0720
Photo of Phoenix Counseling Centre-Counseling for Christ, Psychological Associate in West End, Washington, DC
Phoenix Counseling Centre-Counseling for Christ
Psychological Associate, Thd, DivD, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Phoenix Counseling Centre is a Christ-based organization that serves to provide individual, family, child and marriage therapy services. Phoenix Counseling Centre was founded on the principles of Christ. We believe honesty, integrity and compassion are the cornerstone of our practice. Our clinicians are dedicated to the personal growth of each individual client; each with years of experience in counseling. Our humanistic approach is client-centered and based in the Jungian and Rogerian theoretical perspectives. We work cooperatively with each client to eliminate barriers to their personal mental health.
Phoenix Counseling Centre is a Christ-based organization that serves to provide individual, family, child and marriage therapy services. Phoenix Counseling Centre was founded on the principles of Christ. We believe honesty, integrity and compassion are the cornerstone of our practice. Our clinicians are dedicated to the personal growth of each individual client; each with years of experience in counseling. Our humanistic approach is client-centered and based in the Jungian and Rogerian theoretical perspectives. We work cooperatively with each client to eliminate barriers to their personal mental health.
(202) 335-2332 View (202) 335-2332
Photo of Jennifer Mostafa, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, Washington, DC
Jennifer Mostafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
(202) 304-1180 View (202) 304-1180
Photo of Sara Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Sara Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Family dynamics are complicated & every relationship experiences times of tension & disconnect.
Aloha! It is my desire to create a safe, warm & accepting space for all the individuals I work with. I believe that feelings of belonging & acceptance are the foundation of the growth we can achieve together. Understanding my clients' problems from a holistic perspective is important to me. As you share your unique story it is my goal to paint a more detailed picture of your problem within the context it has evolved & been maintained. My belief is that all problems make sense in the context of our unique experiences & relationships. My desire is to validate these experiences & help you work towards lasting healing.
Family dynamics are complicated & every relationship experiences times of tension & disconnect.
Aloha! It is my desire to create a safe, warm & accepting space for all the individuals I work with. I believe that feelings of belonging & acceptance are the foundation of the growth we can achieve together. Understanding my clients' problems from a holistic perspective is important to me. As you share your unique story it is my goal to paint a more detailed picture of your problem within the context it has evolved & been maintained. My belief is that all problems make sense in the context of our unique experiences & relationships. My desire is to validate these experiences & help you work towards lasting healing.
(808) 784-7057 View (808) 784-7057
Photo of Megan M Herbets, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, Washington, DC
Megan M Herbets
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
(202) 743-7505 View (202) 743-7505
Photo of Terah Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Terah Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Welcome— I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Terah Ryan, a Clinical Social Worker and therapist in Maryland and the District of Columbia. It’s my commitment to create a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, patterns, and relationships to create a more meaningful self. I work with adults of all ages experiencing concerns such as chronic illness, grief, loss, relationship or family issues, anxiety, and troublesome or stressful life transitions. My clients find me to be supportive, collaborative, and direct. I also have substantial experience working with healthcare professionals and supporting caregivers of loved ones.
Welcome— I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Terah Ryan, a Clinical Social Worker and therapist in Maryland and the District of Columbia. It’s my commitment to create a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, patterns, and relationships to create a more meaningful self. I work with adults of all ages experiencing concerns such as chronic illness, grief, loss, relationship or family issues, anxiety, and troublesome or stressful life transitions. My clients find me to be supportive, collaborative, and direct. I also have substantial experience working with healthcare professionals and supporting caregivers of loved ones.
(202) 883-4787 View (202) 883-4787
Photo of Sonja Linn, Psychologist in West End, Washington, DC
Sonja Linn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
While I am a generalist, I specialize in relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual trauma, college adjustment, transitions, family problems, depression, anxiety and career issues.
I view therapy as a process that can facilitate healing and change, as well as understanding and fulfillment. Whether stuck in a conflicted relationship, feeling lost, struggling with depression or anxiety, adjusting to a transition or life change, feeling unable to break unhealthy patterns or resolve past issues and pain, it can be difficult to know where to start. Together, we can explore the issues you face and identify the direction you want your life to take and the steps needed to get you there. Once established, our relationship can provide the foundation and safety for this process.
While I am a generalist, I specialize in relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual trauma, college adjustment, transitions, family problems, depression, anxiety and career issues.
I view therapy as a process that can facilitate healing and change, as well as understanding and fulfillment. Whether stuck in a conflicted relationship, feeling lost, struggling with depression or anxiety, adjusting to a transition or life change, feeling unable to break unhealthy patterns or resolve past issues and pain, it can be difficult to know where to start. Together, we can explore the issues you face and identify the direction you want your life to take and the steps needed to get you there. Once established, our relationship can provide the foundation and safety for this process.
(202) 670-9935 View (202) 670-9935
Photo of Regina Rhoades, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, Washington, DC
Regina Rhoades
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20427
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need a positive change? Do you wish you experienced more joy and fulfillment? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s stress or grief? Do you imagine your relationships being deeper? Whether you are overwhelmed with current problems, or your past experiences are interfering with your current life, there is true hope for the life of purpose and fulfillment that you have dreamed of! It is my life calling to validate your struggles and empower you to live a wholehearted life, even in the face of great difficulty. I provide tele-therapy, individual, group, family/couples therapy, all in a nurturing & nonjudgmental environment.
Do you need a positive change? Do you wish you experienced more joy and fulfillment? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s stress or grief? Do you imagine your relationships being deeper? Whether you are overwhelmed with current problems, or your past experiences are interfering with your current life, there is true hope for the life of purpose and fulfillment that you have dreamed of! It is my life calling to validate your struggles and empower you to live a wholehearted life, even in the face of great difficulty. I provide tele-therapy, individual, group, family/couples therapy, all in a nurturing & nonjudgmental environment.
(941) 214-4841 View (941) 214-4841

See more therapy options for West End, Washington

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.