Photo of Mercedes Laws, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Mercedes Laws
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560
I work with various issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, social skills, difficulty adjusting to major life changes, family and marital issues and support.
Hello! Taking the first step and choosing a counselor to talk to when you are struggling can be overwhelming, and I am so glad you are here. I understand you may feel alone, anxious, or even a bit down but this is the first step in creating a better you! My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgeable. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I can help you find a path to feeling better and stronger emotionally as an individual as well as in your relationships
I work with various issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, social skills, difficulty adjusting to major life changes, family and marital issues and support.
Hello! Taking the first step and choosing a counselor to talk to when you are struggling can be overwhelming, and I am so glad you are here. I understand you may feel alone, anxious, or even a bit down but this is the first step in creating a better you! My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgeable. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I can help you find a path to feeling better and stronger emotionally as an individual as well as in your relationships
(630) 229-5139 View (630) 229-5139
Photo of Kelly Strick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Kelly Strick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I specialize in Women’s Issues, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Couples Counseling including Premarital Therapy, Family Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and Parenting Issues.
At Sacred Journey Wellness we believe that every individual is on their own unique journey. We recognize that at times individuals may get caught up in life’s challenges, transitions or struggles and need assistance in getting back to a state of optimal health and well-being. With a blend of traditional and holistic approaches, Sacred Journey Wellness is here to empower clients with the tools and skills needed to continue on their current path or to help find the strength and courage to create a new one.
I specialize in Women’s Issues, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Couples Counseling including Premarital Therapy, Family Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and Parenting Issues.
At Sacred Journey Wellness we believe that every individual is on their own unique journey. We recognize that at times individuals may get caught up in life’s challenges, transitions or struggles and need assistance in getting back to a state of optimal health and well-being. With a blend of traditional and holistic approaches, Sacred Journey Wellness is here to empower clients with the tools and skills needed to continue on their current path or to help find the strength and courage to create a new one.
(331) 241-7480 View (331) 241-7480
Photo of Shannon Pociecha, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560
This includes working with the family as well.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
This includes working with the family as well.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
(815) 406-6057 View (815) 406-6057
Photo of Kelsey Flynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Kelsey Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
Everyone feels overwhelmed and troubled at times. We all carry scars from either our past or present which can prevent us from enjoying life and embracing happiness. I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your concerns. I promote healing from a place of empathy and understanding. I believe everyone has the inner strength and power to overcome adversity and to face the many challenges that life brings. I work from a client centered and affirming perspective using evidence-based interventions, techniques and skills drawn from a blend of therapeutic modalities.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
Everyone feels overwhelmed and troubled at times. We all carry scars from either our past or present which can prevent us from enjoying life and embracing happiness. I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your concerns. I promote healing from a place of empathy and understanding. I believe everyone has the inner strength and power to overcome adversity and to face the many challenges that life brings. I work from a client centered and affirming perspective using evidence-based interventions, techniques and skills drawn from a blend of therapeutic modalities.
(331) 231-2224 x100 View (331) 231-2224 x100
Photo of Nicole M Danzell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kendall County, IL
Nicole M Danzell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, MHS, BA
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560
I’m Nicole, a marriage and family therapy graduate from Capella University, and I work as a pre-licensed counselor at Joi Counseling. I’ve always had compassion for people going through difficult times in life. I recognize that we all need a little extra guidance when things are tough. As a counselor, my goal is to help you become the best version of yourself possible. I want you to know that you have the capacity and ability to effect change. I am ready to work together with you to accomplish shared goals, and I can modify my style to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families.
I’m Nicole, a marriage and family therapy graduate from Capella University, and I work as a pre-licensed counselor at Joi Counseling. I’ve always had compassion for people going through difficult times in life. I recognize that we all need a little extra guidance when things are tough. As a counselor, my goal is to help you become the best version of yourself possible. I want you to know that you have the capacity and ability to effect change. I am ready to work together with you to accomplish shared goals, and I can modify my style to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families.
(331) 204-0265 View (331) 204-0265
Photo of Katie Kemmerling (She Her), Marriage & Family Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Katie Kemmerling (She Her)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I have 14 years of clinical experience in individual and family therapy.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
I have 14 years of clinical experience in individual and family therapy.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
(630) 608-4555 View (630) 608-4555
Photo of Katie Crow in Kendall County, IL
Katie Crow
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families impacted by anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, family conflict and behavioral concerns. I recognize the unique pressures of parenting today and have a passion for providing parent education and family support. I believe that through building self-compassion and by strengthening connections, families can heal and thrive.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families impacted by anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, family conflict and behavioral concerns. I recognize the unique pressures of parenting today and have a passion for providing parent education and family support. I believe that through building self-compassion and by strengthening connections, families can heal and thrive.
(630) 528-2974 View (630) 528-2974
Photo of Tami Curry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Tami Curry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with young children, adolescents , young adults and families. I work with an array of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, social skills development, behavioral intervention, confidence, family issues and parent education and support. I have 8 years of experience in public-schools, as a School Social Worker. I have worked in an elementary setting primarily with students on the Autism Spectrum Disorder for 4 years. Then transitioned to a high school and worked with children in a program to equip students with social and academic skills to better navigate throughout high school.
I specialize in working with young children, adolescents , young adults and families. I work with an array of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, social skills development, behavioral intervention, confidence, family issues and parent education and support. I have 8 years of experience in public-schools, as a School Social Worker. I have worked in an elementary setting primarily with students on the Autism Spectrum Disorder for 4 years. Then transitioned to a high school and worked with children in a program to equip students with social and academic skills to better navigate throughout high school.
(331) 321-4810 View (331) 321-4810
Photo of Deborah Kozlowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Deborah Kozlowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CMNCS
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
At SafeSpace, we have experience with adults, adolescents, couples & families with parenting concerns, stress/anxiety, work/life balance, separation/divorce & family blending, caretaking, disordered eating, addictions, depression, self care issues & more.
Whether or not this is your first time seeking out counseling, finding a therapist who "fits" can be a daunting experience. SafeSpace therapists understand that it can be difficult to ask for help. We all, however, need support and guidance sometimes. Our clients often give the feedback that they feel accepted and secure in our warm, welcoming and intimate setting. We are experienced clinicians who are nonjudgmental, approachable, good listeners, supportive, but also give helpful feedback. Clients frequently say they feel a 'connection,' and can easily open up with even their most private concerns.
At SafeSpace, we have experience with adults, adolescents, couples & families with parenting concerns, stress/anxiety, work/life balance, separation/divorce & family blending, caretaking, disordered eating, addictions, depression, self care issues & more.
Whether or not this is your first time seeking out counseling, finding a therapist who "fits" can be a daunting experience. SafeSpace therapists understand that it can be difficult to ask for help. We all, however, need support and guidance sometimes. Our clients often give the feedback that they feel accepted and secure in our warm, welcoming and intimate setting. We are experienced clinicians who are nonjudgmental, approachable, good listeners, supportive, but also give helpful feedback. Clients frequently say they feel a 'connection,' and can easily open up with even their most private concerns.
(630) 366-0182 View (630) 366-0182
Photo of Kate Hoffower, Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Kate Hoffower
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560
Whether it's "big T Trauma" or "little t trauma", no one's life is perfect. From a difficult breakup to family conflict, relationship concerns, the loss of a loved one, a global pandemic, or surviving any number of difficult experiences, the world is going to test you. I will meet you where you are and together we will create a map to help you move forward. I draw from CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused and Existential theories and practices.
Whether it's "big T Trauma" or "little t trauma", no one's life is perfect. From a difficult breakup to family conflict, relationship concerns, the loss of a loved one, a global pandemic, or surviving any number of difficult experiences, the world is going to test you. I will meet you where you are and together we will create a map to help you move forward. I draw from CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused and Existential theories and practices.
(847) 649-6398 View (847) 649-6398
Photo of Christine Caputo, Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Christine Caputo
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I have experience and training in working with the LGBTQ community and their family.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
I have experience and training in working with the LGBTQ community and their family.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
(815) 709-0306 View (815) 709-0306
Photo of Mary Ann Griffith, Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Mary Ann Griffith
Counselor, MAC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I am certified in Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy and I am currently in training for certification in EMDR, a technique for those who have experienced significant trauma.
People don't just want to be listened to, they want to know you "get it", so that you can really help them. When an individual feels "gotten" a connection will form and a nonjudgmental environment is created. I believe in individualizing treatment to each client's needs. I help individuals and couples address various types of issues like symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relational conflict I specialize in Mood disorders, PTSD and Family and Marital conflict.
I am certified in Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy and I am currently in training for certification in EMDR, a technique for those who have experienced significant trauma.
People don't just want to be listened to, they want to know you "get it", so that you can really help them. When an individual feels "gotten" a connection will form and a nonjudgmental environment is created. I believe in individualizing treatment to each client's needs. I help individuals and couples address various types of issues like symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relational conflict I specialize in Mood disorders, PTSD and Family and Marital conflict.
(331) 207-3033 View (331) 207-3033
Photo of Miranda Brennan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Miranda Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
My specialties include individual and family support counseling in order to help clients work through various issues such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, and social skills.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
My specialties include individual and family support counseling in order to help clients work through various issues such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, and social skills.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
(815) 660-0945 View (815) 660-0945
Photo of Marloes Verhoeven, Psychologist in Kendall County, IL
Marloes Verhoeven
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Level 1 trained IFS therapist (Internal Family System) as well as an experienced EMDR therapist and use both modalities to help people heal from traumatic experiences, including (childhood) abuse, neglect, conflict, or loss/grief.
My clients consistently tell me what a profound positive impact our collaborative work in therapy has made on their lives, especially after they have felt "stuck" for a long time. Being able to "connect the dots," gain insights, and change behaviors can bring great relief and a sense of hope. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families cope with past, present, or chronic stressors and regain power and control over their lives and relationships. This is especially true for people who have experienced traumatic events and (as a result) may have symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, and/or anger.
I am a Level 1 trained IFS therapist (Internal Family System) as well as an experienced EMDR therapist and use both modalities to help people heal from traumatic experiences, including (childhood) abuse, neglect, conflict, or loss/grief.
My clients consistently tell me what a profound positive impact our collaborative work in therapy has made on their lives, especially after they have felt "stuck" for a long time. Being able to "connect the dots," gain insights, and change behaviors can bring great relief and a sense of hope. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families cope with past, present, or chronic stressors and regain power and control over their lives and relationships. This is especially true for people who have experienced traumatic events and (as a result) may have symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, and/or anger.
(630) 313-4886 View (630) 313-4886
Photo of Sergio Garcia, Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Sergio Garcia
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Plano, IL 60545
My theoretical orientations are solution-focused, cognitive, play therapy, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy.
I am a bilingual therapist, providing psychotherapy to Spanish and English speaking clients. My approach is compassionate and focused on leveraging your strengths to lead towards a worthwhile life. I tailor my approach to the individual with whom I work. This includes their needs, culture, values, personality and goals. Through our work we will examine your thoughts, actions and behaviors and move towards empowering you to realize more purpose, reach higher fulfillment and build your own self esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents.
My theoretical orientations are solution-focused, cognitive, play therapy, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy.
I am a bilingual therapist, providing psychotherapy to Spanish and English speaking clients. My approach is compassionate and focused on leveraging your strengths to lead towards a worthwhile life. I tailor my approach to the individual with whom I work. This includes their needs, culture, values, personality and goals. Through our work we will examine your thoughts, actions and behaviors and move towards empowering you to realize more purpose, reach higher fulfillment and build your own self esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents.
(847) 242-2355 View (847) 242-2355
Photo of Laura Langes, Psychologist in Kendall County, IL
Laura Langes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Waitlist for new clients
I provide culturally-competent individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
I provide culturally-competent individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
(630) 517-5766 View (630) 517-5766
Photo of Marguerite Stiefbold, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Marguerite Stiefbold
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560
I am trained to work with a variety of clients and issues as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been practicing for over 30 years and work with families, couples, children, and individuals who are struggling with a variety of problems. Some of the things that I offer are; help to families in times of stress, assistance to couples confronted with challenges, help for children and parents experiencing developmental struggles, support for times of loss and the grief issues that result from death, divorce or separations, help for those experiencing depression and anxiety, etc.
I am trained to work with a variety of clients and issues as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been practicing for over 30 years and work with families, couples, children, and individuals who are struggling with a variety of problems. Some of the things that I offer are; help to families in times of stress, assistance to couples confronted with challenges, help for children and parents experiencing developmental struggles, support for times of loss and the grief issues that result from death, divorce or separations, help for those experiencing depression and anxiety, etc.
(630) 599-8818 View (630) 599-8818
Photo of Philip A Kirk, Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Philip A Kirk
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I specialize in couples, family and self esteem .
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
I specialize in couples, family and self esteem .
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
(815) 261-1617 View (815) 261-1617
Photo of Debbie Levinson, M.S. L.M.F.T., Marriage & Family Therapist in Kendall County, IL
Debbie Levinson, M.S. L.M.F.T.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543  (Online Only)
Hello. I am Debbie Levinson and I am 100% telehealth. "We have communication issues", " "I don't know whether I should stay?" "Can our relationship survive after an affair?" There is so much invested: children, family, mutual friends, religion, culture, and finances. I hear the fear, anxiety and worry in these questions. This is your life, and you are coming for answers, guidance and hope. I do not take this lightly. I sincerely want to help give you the skills and education to improve your struggle. I will work along you to bring health to your relationship(s). You want to feel safe, heard and respected.
Hello. I am Debbie Levinson and I am 100% telehealth. "We have communication issues", " "I don't know whether I should stay?" "Can our relationship survive after an affair?" There is so much invested: children, family, mutual friends, religion, culture, and finances. I hear the fear, anxiety and worry in these questions. This is your life, and you are coming for answers, guidance and hope. I do not take this lightly. I sincerely want to help give you the skills and education to improve your struggle. I will work along you to bring health to your relationship(s). You want to feel safe, heard and respected.
(630) 796-4647 View (630) 796-4647
Photo of Cagney Cappelli, Counselor in Kendall County, IL
Cagney Cappelli
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CODP II
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I have been working in the field of mental health and addictions since 1993. I feel fortunate to be able to provide individual, family, and couples counseling to those seeking to improve various aspects of their life.
I have been working in the field of mental health and addictions since 1993. I feel fortunate to be able to provide individual, family, and couples counseling to those seeking to improve various aspects of their life.
(815) 999-2552 View (815) 999-2552

See more therapy options for Kendall County

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.