Photo of Plum Tree Psychology, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Plum Tree Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, CPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Plum Tree is a collection of practitioners who provide therapy and medication management for kids. We conduct psychological and neuropsychological testing for academic, diagnostic, and clinical disorders. Our team includes specialists for Tourette’s, PTSD, Suicide/Self-Injury, ADHD, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Developmental delays, impaired self-esteem, grief, academic under-performance, and family struggles are all within our purview to support. Services also include ADHD Coaching and Transition Support from high school to college/career.
Plum Tree is a collection of practitioners who provide therapy and medication management for kids. We conduct psychological and neuropsychological testing for academic, diagnostic, and clinical disorders. Our team includes specialists for Tourette’s, PTSD, Suicide/Self-Injury, ADHD, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Developmental delays, impaired self-esteem, grief, academic under-performance, and family struggles are all within our purview to support. Services also include ADHD Coaching and Transition Support from high school to college/career.
(630) 365-7926 View (630) 365-7926
Photo of Nancy Robin Krtek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Nancy Robin Krtek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ND, LCSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
(630) 282-6959 View (630) 282-6959
Photo of Christine Anderson, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Christine Anderson
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Christine is an experienced therapist who engages clients in the therapeutic process by developing treatment goals based on clients' individual needs. She partners with clients to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the clients' support system which may include their family and other medical providers in order to ensure appropriate treatment goals are set and achieved. Christine enjoys engaging clients in the therapeutic process by giving value to each client's perspective through her client-centered approach. Christine has experience working with adolescents and adults.
Christine is an experienced therapist who engages clients in the therapeutic process by developing treatment goals based on clients' individual needs. She partners with clients to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the clients' support system which may include their family and other medical providers in order to ensure appropriate treatment goals are set and achieved. Christine enjoys engaging clients in the therapeutic process by giving value to each client's perspective through her client-centered approach. Christine has experience working with adolescents and adults.
(815) 600-7887 View (815) 600-7887
Photo of Anna McCaffrey in Saint Charles, IL
Anna McCaffrey
MSEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I offer Family-Based Treatment for Eating Disorders and am a Gottman Level 2 trained therapist for couple's therapy.
When confronted by a triggering event or stuck by life’s challenges, it can be easy to feel consumed by anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. However, these challenges also provide you with an opportunity for growth. It takes a lot of courage to recognize your desire to seek change. By joining you where you are on this part of your journey, I will encourage you to become an active participant in your healing process.
I offer Family-Based Treatment for Eating Disorders and am a Gottman Level 2 trained therapist for couple's therapy.
When confronted by a triggering event or stuck by life’s challenges, it can be easy to feel consumed by anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. However, these challenges also provide you with an opportunity for growth. It takes a lot of courage to recognize your desire to seek change. By joining you where you are on this part of your journey, I will encourage you to become an active participant in your healing process.
(630) 324-4640 View (630) 324-4640
Photo of Elizabeth Bremner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Elizabeth Bremner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , Type 73
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, family dynamics, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to treating adolescents, individuals, couples, and families. I have experience in various settings within the community and in schools. My clinical interests include working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, autoimmune diseases, trauma, family issues, grief, and adjustment/life changes. I truly enjoy helping others while using strength-based approaches and integrating various treatment therapies to best meet the needs and goals of my Clients.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral disorders, family dynamics, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to treating adolescents, individuals, couples, and families. I have experience in various settings within the community and in schools. My clinical interests include working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, autoimmune diseases, trauma, family issues, grief, and adjustment/life changes. I truly enjoy helping others while using strength-based approaches and integrating various treatment therapies to best meet the needs and goals of my Clients.
(630) 757-8268 View (630) 757-8268
Photo of Goodman Psychologist Associates, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Goodman Psychologist Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
We are a child and family psychology practice. My associates and I believe in a cooperative treatment experience where client and therapist share responsibility for the identification and mutual direction of problem solving strategies. We are convinced of the importance of involving significant others in the treatment process when possible. Often children and adolescents react to problems in the context of school and family. We value feedback from teachers and staff professionals and look for collaborative relationships in pursuing the best needs of the child or adolescent.
We are a child and family psychology practice. My associates and I believe in a cooperative treatment experience where client and therapist share responsibility for the identification and mutual direction of problem solving strategies. We are convinced of the importance of involving significant others in the treatment process when possible. Often children and adolescents react to problems in the context of school and family. We value feedback from teachers and staff professionals and look for collaborative relationships in pursuing the best needs of the child or adolescent.
(630) 733-1852 View (630) 733-1852
Photo of Warren Matson, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Warren Matson
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
After serving a wide range of clients, I have focused in on family systems and working with family members to insure the best outcomes for parents, cohesion for couples, and stability for children, thus working with individuals of all ages, families and couples. In family work I have had extensive experience with issues related to adoption and foster parenting. I also work with individuals addressing a wide range of issues that may or may not be directly related to family and relationships. In addition, I facilitate equine assisted therapy, focusing on addressing boundaries, assertiveness, emotional regulation, and confidence.
After serving a wide range of clients, I have focused in on family systems and working with family members to insure the best outcomes for parents, cohesion for couples, and stability for children, thus working with individuals of all ages, families and couples. In family work I have had extensive experience with issues related to adoption and foster parenting. I also work with individuals addressing a wide range of issues that may or may not be directly related to family and relationships. In addition, I facilitate equine assisted therapy, focusing on addressing boundaries, assertiveness, emotional regulation, and confidence.
(630) 463-6177 View (630) 463-6177
Photo of Jacqueline Marshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Jacqueline Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
A trusting relationship is key in the therapeutic process and together, we can create a communication environment that is comfortable, safe and non-judgmental to help you explore difficult emotions whether it be interpersonal, marital or family.
Are you dealing with life stressors that are leaving you feeling overwhelmed and confused? Maybe your feelings of anxiety and depression are causing so much emotional distress that it is affecting your job, school work, and/or relationships. Allow me to help you gain understanding and find solutions to improving your functioning and feeling better.
A trusting relationship is key in the therapeutic process and together, we can create a communication environment that is comfortable, safe and non-judgmental to help you explore difficult emotions whether it be interpersonal, marital or family.
Are you dealing with life stressors that are leaving you feeling overwhelmed and confused? Maybe your feelings of anxiety and depression are causing so much emotional distress that it is affecting your job, school work, and/or relationships. Allow me to help you gain understanding and find solutions to improving your functioning and feeling better.
(847) 565-1381 View (847) 565-1381
Photo of Jennifer Cataldo, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Jennifer Cataldo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I offer family systems as a foundation for services.
Do you need a safe, confidential place where you can feel comfortable expressing thoughts and feelings? I understand the difficulty of discussing past hurts and experiences. I provide a nonjudgmental place to heal and find hope and humor along the way. In appointments, we will help you let go of dark times and find light in the present and future. Everyone struggles, we are all working to the best of our ability. I provide an objective, safe place with skilled guidance to help you heal and create hope.
I offer family systems as a foundation for services.
Do you need a safe, confidential place where you can feel comfortable expressing thoughts and feelings? I understand the difficulty of discussing past hurts and experiences. I provide a nonjudgmental place to heal and find hope and humor along the way. In appointments, we will help you let go of dark times and find light in the present and future. Everyone struggles, we are all working to the best of our ability. I provide an objective, safe place with skilled guidance to help you heal and create hope.
(815) 426-9130 View (815) 426-9130
Photo of Prem Nikoniuk, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Prem Nikoniuk
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, NCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175  (Online Only)
What's on your mind? Are you experiencing relationship problems, family troubles, money issues, health concerns? Do you feel anxious, scared, sad or stressed? Whatever it may be - it is, likely, consuming you; you are feeling out of touch, lost; as if your entire world is spinning out of control! What if you were to, for a moment, forget the destination you believe your life is headed and instead, focus on your journey? For only in the process of living your life completely and meaningfully, will you come to find its true purpose, joy, and fulfillment.
What's on your mind? Are you experiencing relationship problems, family troubles, money issues, health concerns? Do you feel anxious, scared, sad or stressed? Whatever it may be - it is, likely, consuming you; you are feeling out of touch, lost; as if your entire world is spinning out of control! What if you were to, for a moment, forget the destination you believe your life is headed and instead, focus on your journey? For only in the process of living your life completely and meaningfully, will you come to find its true purpose, joy, and fulfillment.
(331) 259-8465 View (331) 259-8465
Photo of Consider Yourself Counseling Services, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Consider Yourself Counseling Services
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, BCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Our mission is to help individuals improve their emotions, thoughts, and physical state to grow in a safe, positive direction while improving lifestyle and relationships. This is accomplished through working together with other family members and medical providers if necessary. We believe in customizing types of therapy and techniques according to individual unique life circumstances. Most importantly, we respect the belief that each person is empowered and has the ability to heal or find the way to happiness. Our role is to assist you in finding your "best" self. Thus, the saying "Consider Yourself!"
Our mission is to help individuals improve their emotions, thoughts, and physical state to grow in a safe, positive direction while improving lifestyle and relationships. This is accomplished through working together with other family members and medical providers if necessary. We believe in customizing types of therapy and techniques according to individual unique life circumstances. Most importantly, we respect the belief that each person is empowered and has the ability to heal or find the way to happiness. Our role is to assist you in finding your "best" self. Thus, the saying "Consider Yourself!"
(630) 394-6055 View (630) 394-6055
Photo of Vanessa F. Hernandez in Saint Charles, IL
Vanessa F. Hernandez
LSW, CADC, EMDR, Trained, CTP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate through the healing process of trauma and the different symptoms that trauma brings to an individuals’ life, such as depression, PTSD, anxiety disorder, low self-esteem, and substance abuse, to name a few. If you are struggling with the journey of infertile and infant loss, please know that you are not alone and that there is help for you and your family.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate through the healing process of trauma and the different symptoms that trauma brings to an individuals’ life, such as depression, PTSD, anxiety disorder, low self-esteem, and substance abuse, to name a few. If you are struggling with the journey of infertile and infant loss, please know that you are not alone and that there is help for you and your family.
(630) 793-0699 View (630) 793-0699
Photo of Sarah L. Lloyd, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Sarah L. Lloyd
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Sarah has an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing various styles that are needed by her clients to overcome and grow through a particular challenge they are experiencing. Sarah is passionate about using experiences and adventure during the therapeutic process. Through activities, client's engage in authentic learning and are able to practice new skills within the session to gain confidence. As long as the weather is conducive, she and her clients can often be found outdoors. Overall, Sarah leans towards a very goal-orientated style that incorporates the family system when available.
Sarah has an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing various styles that are needed by her clients to overcome and grow through a particular challenge they are experiencing. Sarah is passionate about using experiences and adventure during the therapeutic process. Through activities, client's engage in authentic learning and are able to practice new skills within the session to gain confidence. As long as the weather is conducive, she and her clients can often be found outdoors. Overall, Sarah leans towards a very goal-orientated style that incorporates the family system when available.
(630) 672-5264 View (630) 672-5264
Photo of Jennifer Watgen, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Jennifer Watgen
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
We specialize in several areas of mental health and offer support with the following: - Anxiety - Depression - ADHD - Learning Difficulties - Family Conflict - Self-Harming Behaviors - High Functioning Autism - Social Skills and more.
Late morning/early afternoon availability, no evenings at this time. There are times life hurts, disappoints and frustrates, or goes beyond a sense of control or understanding. Sometimes redirecting and adjusting life's energies takes the assistance of a clinical professional. Personal growth, identity, and integration is a journey that is made easier with the trust and care of a professional. The Ely labyrinth, as used in our logo, is used as a symbol of Kuhn Counseling Center as it represents a path to a more balanced, whole-person well-being. Kuhn Counseling Center aims to help individuals deal with their struggles in life.
We specialize in several areas of mental health and offer support with the following: - Anxiety - Depression - ADHD - Learning Difficulties - Family Conflict - Self-Harming Behaviors - High Functioning Autism - Social Skills and more.
Late morning/early afternoon availability, no evenings at this time. There are times life hurts, disappoints and frustrates, or goes beyond a sense of control or understanding. Sometimes redirecting and adjusting life's energies takes the assistance of a clinical professional. Personal growth, identity, and integration is a journey that is made easier with the trust and care of a professional. The Ely labyrinth, as used in our logo, is used as a symbol of Kuhn Counseling Center as it represents a path to a more balanced, whole-person well-being. Kuhn Counseling Center aims to help individuals deal with their struggles in life.
(630) 931-0825 View (630) 931-0825
Photo of Cheryl Renee Runion, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Cheryl Renee Runion
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
(847) 641-2372 View (847) 641-2372
Photo of Amanda Kelleghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Amanda Kelleghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSIR
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience in trauma-related issues, addictive behavior/substance abuse issues, marriage and family therapy, grief and loss, and dementia.
The constant pressures of daily life, particularly during a pandemic, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, scared, and alone. As we try to navigate our way through issues involving school, work, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss, we may feel so hopeless that we feel as if we cannot go on like this anymore. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will provide support and guidance to help you identify unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you can make positive and sustainable changes to improve your quality of life.
I also have extensive experience in trauma-related issues, addictive behavior/substance abuse issues, marriage and family therapy, grief and loss, and dementia.
The constant pressures of daily life, particularly during a pandemic, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, scared, and alone. As we try to navigate our way through issues involving school, work, relationships, life transitions, and grief and loss, we may feel so hopeless that we feel as if we cannot go on like this anymore. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will provide support and guidance to help you identify unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you can make positive and sustainable changes to improve your quality of life.
(331) 214-8021 View (331) 214-8021
Photo of Kimberly Just, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Kimberly Just
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
My name is Kim, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. I have vast experience working in settings, such as community mental health, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing both individual, and family therapy. My experience has primarily involved treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, life transitions, and ADHD.
My name is Kim, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. I have vast experience working in settings, such as community mental health, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing both individual, and family therapy. My experience has primarily involved treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, life transitions, and ADHD.
(331) 244-0310 View (331) 244-0310
Photo of Clear Path Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Clear Path Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
At Clear Path Counseling, we believe everyone deserves the chance to unlock their full potential and enjoy brighter days ahead. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following, we want to help: Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Relationship/Communication Issues, Divorce/Family Conflict, Low Self Esteem, Grief/Bereavement, Emotional Regulation, Behavioral/Social Skill Concerns, ADHD, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Trauma, Anger Management. Feel free to check out our website to learn more about our clinicians! We also provide services in Spanish!
At Clear Path Counseling, we believe everyone deserves the chance to unlock their full potential and enjoy brighter days ahead. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following, we want to help: Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Relationship/Communication Issues, Divorce/Family Conflict, Low Self Esteem, Grief/Bereavement, Emotional Regulation, Behavioral/Social Skill Concerns, ADHD, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Trauma, Anger Management. Feel free to check out our website to learn more about our clinicians! We also provide services in Spanish!
(630) 449-3272 View (630) 449-3272
Photo of Amanda Zoloto, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, IL
Amanda Zoloto
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
I work with clients on issues of living with marginalized identities, trauma occurring at all ages, parenting, grief and loss, adult neurodivergence, gender and sexuality, family estrangement, addiction, stigmatized mental health diagnoses, relationship challenges, and much more.
I love supporting my clients in discovering the brightest versions of themselves. I strive to be a grounding presence, offering strengths-based insight in a consistent, nurturing, and nourishing space where you can stretch, grow, and thrive. My trauma-informed clinical work also names the heavy impact of the systems at play in our lives - racism, white supremacy, colonization, capitalism, patriarchy, anti-queerness, anti-fatness and ableism must be acknowledged as complex and enduring influences on our institutions and therefore on our individual and collective healing.
I work with clients on issues of living with marginalized identities, trauma occurring at all ages, parenting, grief and loss, adult neurodivergence, gender and sexuality, family estrangement, addiction, stigmatized mental health diagnoses, relationship challenges, and much more.
I love supporting my clients in discovering the brightest versions of themselves. I strive to be a grounding presence, offering strengths-based insight in a consistent, nurturing, and nourishing space where you can stretch, grow, and thrive. My trauma-informed clinical work also names the heavy impact of the systems at play in our lives - racism, white supremacy, colonization, capitalism, patriarchy, anti-queerness, anti-fatness and ableism must be acknowledged as complex and enduring influences on our institutions and therefore on our individual and collective healing.
(708) 261-0491 View (708) 261-0491
Photo of Jendaya Clark, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Jendaya Clark
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
Let's talk through some of the challenges which may have been lingering in mind for a long time. Often times we can find these challenges can limit you from taking the next step in your life, and I understand having some of those experiences as well. Perhaps some of those feelings include feeling anxious or down about a variety of things, or perhaps struggling with conflict within your family that make even the smallest decisions seem impossible.
Let's talk through some of the challenges which may have been lingering in mind for a long time. Often times we can find these challenges can limit you from taking the next step in your life, and I understand having some of those experiences as well. Perhaps some of those feelings include feeling anxious or down about a variety of things, or perhaps struggling with conflict within your family that make even the smallest decisions seem impossible.
(815) 384-1573 View (815) 384-1573

See more therapy options for Saint Charles


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.